National Cancer Hub-PT (NCH-PT)

The National Cancer Hub-PT (NCH-PT) is an initiative coordinated by the Agency de Investigação Clínica e Inivação Biomédica (AICIB) and the Direção Geral da Saúde (DGS), through the National Program for Oncological Diseases (PNDO). Its objective is to coordinate, promote, and support the implementation of European initiatives in the field of cancer in Portugal, defining action and funding strategies aligned with the National Cancer Control Strategy – Horizon 2030 (ENLCC).

This initiative aims to bring together all relevant stakeholders in order to create value for the healthcare system, the scientific and technological system, and Portuguese citizens.

The origin of the NCH stems from Joint Order No. 11429/2021 (dated November 19) between the then Ministry of Science, Technology, and Higher Education (MECI) and the Ministry of Health (MS), with the goal of developing a strategic approach to oncological diseases. This includes a combination of efforts toward prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oncological diseases, as well as ensuring equity and accessibility for citizens to treatments.

The close relationship between the coordinating entities and the involvement of stakeholders and partners in the cancer field has allowed the Hub to foster a dynamic commitment and close ties with ministerial entities and its community.

The NCH-PT bases its activities on three structural groups - the Stakeholders Group, the Policy Group, and the Citizens' and Patients’ Forum - as well as strategic, time-bound Thematic Working Groups and a group dedicated to oncology data management. The coordinated action of these groups will have an impact on citizens and the national healthcare system.

All the activities that have been developed or promoted by the Hub since its inception contribute to the consolidation of a more robust and competitive cancer ecosystem, which in a short period of time has resulted in the increased participation of national entities in European projects and other initiatives.