Support of Personalized medicine Approaches in Cancer
Support of Personalized medicine Approaches in Cancer
Contact person: Roberta Pastorino
Short Title: SPARC
Call for applications: EU4H-2024-PJ-03
Project Code: GA-101232874
Start date: 01/11/2025
End date: 31/10/2028
Coordinator: Universidad Politecnica de Madrid
Funding body: EUROPEAN UNION
Abstract: The cancer burden in Europe, with millions of new cases and deaths every year, represents a significant challenge for healthcare systems. Addressing it requires solutions that integrate technologies, infrastructures and collaboration models. The SPARC project focuses on high-incidence cancers, such as lung and breast cancers, as well as rare cancers such as neuroblastoma, aiming to improve diagnostics, access to care and patient outcomes.
SPARC aligns with the main pillars of the future Joint Action on Personalized Medicine, ensuring a complementary approach to Member States' strategies. Building on previous initiatives such as 'Cancer Diagnostic and Treatment for All' and 'Genomics for Public Health', SPARC addresses critical gaps in precision medicine.
Through pilot studies on lung cancers, pancreatic cancers, neuroblastoma, haematological malignancies, adrenocortical carcinoma and melanoma, the project defines standardised protocols, harmonises data and promotes cross-border collaboration. SPARC leverages advanced tools such as liquid biopsy, next-generation sequencing, and AI-powered diagnostics to ensure precision care. Molecular tumor boards are integrated to enhance multidisciplinary decision-making, strengthen genomic expertise, and reduce shortages of skilled personnel.
SPARC's transnational strategy involves 8 Member States, offering tailor-made solutions to reduce disparities in access to care and available resources. By engaging healthcare professionals, patient organizations, policymakers, researchers, companies, and private sector partners, SPARC ensures a multi-stakeholder framework to advance precision oncology.
To overcome barriers related to health literacy, SPARC develops multilingual patient resources and training programs for healthcare professionals, fostering trust and expertise in personalized medicine. Sustainability is a central element of the project, which aims to harmonise practices, integrate precision medicine into national systems and ensure a lasting impact.
