1965 - 2020
our history
Let's make cancer
ever more treatable
Since 1965, we have been continuously supporting the progress of cancer research, thanks to fundraising, and we have informed the public on the results achieved, on their potential for treatment, and on prevention.
At the core of our mission lies a common set of shared values and principles. AIRC and FIRC contribute to the progress of oncology with different yet complementary tools, promoting young talents, supporting the most innovative research projects, and investing in cutting-edge technologies.
We are Italy’s main private funding hub for cancer research: in 2020 we allocated €125 million to this activity.
Cancer
in figures
Every day, in Italy, an average of 1,000 people are diagnosed with cancer.
The figures show a slight increase compared to 2019: an estimated 377,000 total cases occurred in 2020 (195,000 men and 182,000 women). Incidence rates for melanoma and pancreatic cancers are greatly increased in both sexes. Lung cancer is increasing in women while it continues to fall in males. Breast cancer cases also show a slight increase.
These figures provide a clear picture of the social impact of a disease such as cancer, which still requires a great deal of research in order to find new treatments for those who are fighting their battle today, and for those who will get sick in the future.
The support
of the community
We rely on internal and external stakeholders to carry out our mission. Each brings their own instruments and methods to contribute to the progress of research — researchers pursue an ethical and professional purpose, while supporters, volunteers, and partners support their work.
We can count on the help of the media, institutions, testimonials, and schools to spread our message: a virtuous circle that allows the whole community to benefit from the progress of research.
And viceversa.