site.btaNational Cancer Mission Hub Launched at GATE Forum in Sofia

A National Cancer Mission Hub was founded during a forum organized by the Big Data for Smart Society Institute (GATE) at Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski here on Wednesday.

The forum brought together experts in the field of medicine and science from Bulgaria and Europe. The main objectives of the organization were presented, as well as the results of national studies confirming public support and the need for the initiative in Bulgaria.

Caretaker Minister of Labour and Social Policy Hasan Ademov emphasized the important role that the platform will play for patients. He said: "When a patient with a malignant disease learns their diagnosis, they need psychological support above all else, and a platform that brings together non-governmental experts, government structures, and medical institutions can enable them to easily navigate this difficult time." He added that cancer patients should be equipped with knowledge, information, and hope.

Key remarks on behalf of President Iliana Iotova were read by Maria Yurukova, adviser to the President on domestic policy and civil society. Iotova said that the presidential institution fully supports the work of the hub and will act as its partner.

An address on behalf of Ekaterina Zaharieva, the European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, was also read. Zaharieva stated: "The launch of the national hub is proof of what can be achieved when we join forces, combine resources, and have a common vision for fighting cancer in Bulgaria."

Addresses were also read on behalf of Miglena Temelkova, the Chair of the Council of Rectors, and Andrey Kovatchev MEP. Kovatchev pointed out that the hub is already supported by over 100 Bulgarian partner organizations. Temelkova expressed the academic community's support for cancer research and treatment and said that such initiatives will create stable conditions for the implementation of good practices.

GATE Director Prof. Sylvia Ilieva said: "No single institution or discipline can tackle the challenges posed by cancer on its own. Real progress is only possible through collaboration." She reported that GATE specializes in working with big data and artificial intelligence in the field of digital healthcare.

Bulgaria is one of five pilot countries where national hubs are being established, along with Poland, the Netherlands, Greece, and Malta. Over 80 organizations and institutions are participating in Bulgaria's cancer mission ecosystem.

The forum continued with panel discussions involving experts from scientific, academic, and government institutions.