World Cancer Day 2026: "United by what is unique"

Today, February 4, commemorates the World Cancer Day  and with him  motto:"United by the only thing" We want to remember that all cancer patients share the diagnosis, but their story is unique and the same is true for workers or former workers who suffer from cancer caused by exposure to hazardous substances at work, since their unique stories are united by the fact that it could have been prevented.

By knowing the dangers of carcinogens in the workplace and taking proactive measures, we can reduce the incidence of occupational cancer and create safer work environments for everyone.

Taking advantage of this daySpanish Network for Safety and Health at Work,of which our Mutual is a part, wants to make the prevention of work-related cancer visible through the Roadmap on carcinogens in which the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) and the Ministry of Labor and Social Economy also participate.

What is the carcinogen roadmap?

It is an EU action plan aimed at preventing work-related cancer, as the main cause of occupational mortality on the continent and its main objectives are to raise awareness of the risks arising from exposure to carcinogens in the workplace, exchange good practices and encourage cooperation between national and EU partners to promote the prevention of exposure to these agents. 

This initiative began in 2016 and has numerous partners such as the EU Member States, European social partners, the European Commission, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA). 

What objectives does the roadmap on carcinogens have?

• Share knowledge with companies and the working population about the health effects of exposure to carcinogens.
• Provide active support to companies and the working population so that preventive measures related to exposure to carcinogens are implemented.
• Maintain periodic meetings between participating entities to guarantee continued cooperation and dissemination of activities.
• The roadmap is a voluntary and action-oriented program. Although participating entities agree on a basic catalog of activities, other actions are welcome.
• The initiative, adopted by the Presidencies of the Council of the European Union, aims to leave a lasting legacy in the prevention of occupational exposure to carcinogens.