European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer

EORTC Logo

Pan-European cancer clinical research organization

European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) is a pan-European, non-profit clinical cancer research organization established in 1962. It operates as an international association under Belgian law and is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of EORTC is to improve the survival and quality of life of cancer patients through innovative and high-quality clinical trials and translational research. The organization develops and coordinates large-scale, multidisciplinary studies that evaluate new cancer treatments and therapeutic strategies, including:

• Novel anticancer drugs
• Combinations of currently approved therapies
• Advanced radiotherapy and surgical oncology techniques
• Personalized medicine approaches

Research Network and Infrastructure

EORTC operates a vast network of clinical cancer researchers and institutions across Europe and beyond. This includes:

• Over 930 institutions in more than 30 countries
• Thousands of collaborating investigators and research professionals
• 220 full-time staff based at the headquarters in Brussels

The EORTC is uniquely positioned to conduct large, complex clinical trials across multiple countries, and it has particular expertise in trials involving:

• Rare cancers
• Geriatric oncology (older cancer patients)
• Molecularly defined patient populations

Areas of Research

The EORTC covers a wide range of cancer types and research domains, including but not limited to:

• Breast, lung, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary cancers
• Hematological malignancies
• Brain tumors
• Soft tissue and bone sarcomas
• Cancer survivorship and quality of life studies

It collaborates closely with pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, cooperative groups, and regulatory bodies such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Clinical Trial Excellence

EORTC trials are known for their scientific rigor, patient-centered design, and contribution to evidence-based oncology. The organization has played a key role in defining international standards of care in cancer therapy through landmark clinical trials that have influenced treatment guidelines and regulatory approvals.

External Links

• Official EORTC website
• Cancer research
• Clinical trial
• Oncology