Every second European will face cancer at some point in life. How to reduce this risk for future generations is the central question of the European project SUNRISE, whose 6th plenary meeting is being hosted these days by Alma Mater Europaea University in Ljubljana.
Alma Mater is co-creating European solutions for a healthier future
Cancer is one of the greatest health challenges of our time, which is why Europe is devoting increasing attention to prevention. Alma Mater Europaea University is an important partner in the SUNRISE project, which brings together leading European researchers in the search for answers to the question of how to shape habits already in youth that can save lives decades later.
The project represents an important step toward a society that invests not only in treating diseases, but above all in preventing them.
Alma Mater actively contributes to the development of research methods, the implementation of activities, and the preparation of recommendations that may in the future influence the shaping of health and education policies across Europe.
How to prevent diseases, not just treat the consequences
The research group of Alma Mater Europaea University is also making an important contribution to the SUNRISE project. Dr. Polonca Serrano, SUNRISE project coordinator for Slovenia, emphasizes that the foundations of health are built already in youth:
"If we want a healthier society in the future, we must start with young people. The habits we form in our teenage years often stay with an individual throughout life, so it is important to help young people make decisions that will benefit their health in the long term."
According to Prof. Dr. David Bogataj, head of the SUNRISE project for Slovenia, the greatest value of the project lies in its long-term impact on society:
"Every disease we prevent means a better quality of life for the individual, less burden on families, and less pressure on the healthcare system. That is why prevention is not just a health issue, but an investment in the future of society as a whole."
About the results, impacts, and future steps
Researchers in Ljubljana are also discussing the effectiveness of individual approaches, the social impacts of the project, and the possibilities for transferring successful solutions to schools, local communities, and healthcare systems across Europe. An important part of the meeting is also devoted to the preparation of scientific publications, the dissemination of results, and the shaping of a long-term strategy for the further development of the project.
