#None #EU Funding #Digestive Diseases #United European Gastroenterology

UEG Calls for Digestive Health to be a Priority in Future EU Financial Framework

In a significant move for European health policy, the United European Gastroenterology (UEG) has issued a strong appeal to EU decision-makers to prioritize digestive health in the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034. Representing a network of over 50,000 professionals dedicated to digestive health across Europe and beyond, UEG emphasizes that digestive diseases need to be explicitly recognized and funded within the EU's crucial budgetary constraints.

Digestive diseases are a major health concern for approximately 332 million Europeans. Despite their impact contributing to considerable mortality, disability, and economic losses, they remain underfunded in EU health strategies. According to UEG, these diseases are not only health issues but also catalysts for extensive economic costs, amounting to an estimated €25 billion in direct care and about €89 billion in losses related to productivity. Notably, preventive measures and early detection could significantly alleviate these burdens, saving billions in annual costs for the EU economy.

The Economic Case for Digestive Health

Joost PH Drenth, UEG President, emphasizes the interconnection between digestive health and Europe's economic vitality. He states, “Digestive health is a critical societal and economic priority, and not an isolated medical issue.” Drenth urges that addressing the costs associated with digestive diseases should be viewed as a strategic investment rather than merely an expenditure.

In the UEG White Book 2, it was reported that even minor reductions in premature mortality linked to digestive diseases could open avenues for significant financial savings across health systems. With effective preventive initiatives and research advancements being prioritized, there lies a dual opportunity for reinforcing European public health and enhancing economic resilience.

Recommendations for EU Policymakers

To navigate this critical landscape, UEG has laid out specific recommendations to EU policymakers:

• - Prioritize Digestive Diseases: UEG calls for the inclusion of digestive diseases in FP10 as a central focus, including dedicated calls for research on prevention, digestive cancers, and liver diseases.
• - Launch a Research Innovation Flagship: Establishing an initiative that coordinates cross-border research efforts in digestive health is vital for translating scientific knowledge into practical healthcare solutions.
• - Data Infrastructure Development: There is a pressing need to create and maintain a robust digestive health data infrastructure. This should align with existing regulations to facilitate data-sharing and evidence-based practices.
• - Public Interest Research Funding: Protect funding for public interest research that sustains collaboration between academia and clinical practice.
• - Investment in Prevention: Allocating resources to tackle inequalities linked to digestive health should be embedded in broader EU resilience and competitiveness strategies.

The Road Ahead

The decisions made in 2026 regarding the EU’s financial framework are critical, as they will shape the health and research landscape for the next decade. Alexander Hann, Chair of UEG's Public Affairs Group, asserts that integrating digestive health concerns into the MFF 2028-2034 framework represents a cost-effective approach to improving outcomes for patients while also bolstering Europe's competitive standing on the global stage.

Thus, UEG advocates for proactive policymaking to ensure that digestive health receives the recognition and funding it urgently requires. As Europe looks toward the future, prioritizing this often-overlooked health sector may pave the way for healthier populations and a stronger economy.

Ultimately, the call is clear: As Europe embarks on this new financial chapter, it must recognize the pivotal role of digestive health in driving both public health outcomes and economic stability. These investments are not just necessary; they are strategic imperatives for a healthier and more competitive Europe.