Independent, academic cancer trials are vital to improve patient outcomes worldwide

Independent, academic clinical cancer trials are essential to improving patient outcomes, reducing inequalities in care, and strengthening healthcare systems worldwide, according to a new initiative published in The Lancet Oncology.
The paper, “Academic clinical cancer trials to improve patient outcomes”, announces the launch of a Lancet Oncology Commission examining the role, relevance, and challenges of academic clinical cancer research in today’s geopolitical and economic context.

A global coalition responding to shared challenges

The Lancet Oncology Commission arises from a global coalition of 35 clinical investigators and patient representatives from Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South America, who convened in March 2026, and was coordinated by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC). The primary objective of the meeting was to address the value and need of global collaboration on clinical trials that acknowledge global patient centric questions.

Participants in the coalition highlighted increasing challenges facing academic research, including regulatory complexity, limited public funding, and the need for new models of international collaboration.

“We all agreed we need new models of global collaboration that preserve academic independence while enabling efficient, high-quality international trials”, said Winette van der Graaf, EORTC President.

Academic clinical trials as a public good

The coalition reaffirmed the importance of academic clinical cancer trials in generating evidence that directly informs clinical practice, guideline development, and health system decision-making. By focusing on optimisation of existing treatments and real-world applicability, academic trials contribute to more equitable access to innovation and improved outcomes across diverse patient populations.

“Independent academic clinical trials are fundamental to improving outcomes for patients with cancer,” said Denis Lacombe, EORTC CEO. “They generate the evidence needed to optimise care in routine practice and to support resilient healthcare systems where research is fully integrated into care, independently of corporate interests.”

Towards a research‑integrated healthcare system

Participants identified the integration of research into routine care as a strategic priority for achieving resilient healthcare systems capable of responding to scientific, demographic, and societal change. The initiative aligns with global efforts such as the WHO Global Clinical Trials Forum to support coordinated research across countries.

As a concrete outcome of the March 2026 meeting, a dedicated Lancet Oncology Commission will be initiated.

This global collaboration aims to deliver actionable recommendations to ensure academic, cancer clinical trials continue to benefit patients and society worldwide.

https://doi.org/10.1016/S1470-2045(26)00184-1

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