'Manifesto for life' Launch

Euro-MP Robert Sturdy hosted the launch of europacolon's Colorectal Cancer Campaign in the European Parliament in Brussels on 17 March 2009 to help save lives across the European Union.

This is the second year Mr. Sturdy has supported europacolon which is strongly urging all 27 Member States to fully implement EU Recommendations for colorectal cancer screening. europacolon is hoping to gain the support of 1.5 million people across Europe by signing an online pledge in support of their 'Manifesto for life' which is aimed at key EU policymakers.

Mr. Sturdy said this was a deadly disease however one people thought that would never happen to them. He reiterated that it was a disease that was rarely talked about because of the sensitive area of the body involved but that it was crucial to raise awareness and help people understand the importance of early diagnosis.




“I would like to congratulate everyone at europacolon on the important work done so far which has been a great achievement.  I hope we can continue to help you in the European Parliament. Colorectal cancer should not be a taboo subject.”



Hedwig Neesen, europacolon – Belgium. Mr. Vitor Neves, europacolon – Portugal.  Alojz Peterle, MEP Slovenia. Mrs. Jola Gore-Booth, Founder/Director europacolon. Mr. Robert Sturdy, MEP. Mrs. Brepoels, MEP Belgium. Professor Eric Van Cutsem, Medical Director - europacolon


Jola Gore-Booth, founder of europacolon said colorectal cancer was the second highest cause of cancer deaths in Europe and it was extremely important that all Member States implemented a screening programme. To date only 12 EU Member States comply with this including the UK.

She said: “I would like to thank Mr. Sturdy for hosting our launch today. His continued support of our campaign is invaluable in raising the profile about this deadly yet highly treatable disease across Europe. We look forward to returning to the European Parliament next year with our new model of the Inflatable Colon to make our campaign even more eye catching and unforgettable.”

More than 412,000 European citizens are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year. In 2003 the European Code Against Cancer and the EU Council developed recommendations which stated that all men and women over 50 years should have access to colorectal cancer screening. It is estimated that up to 50% of colorectal cancer deaths could be reduced by 2020 if positive action is taken now.