A scientific article developed within the 4P-CAN project has received the Arnaldo Sampaio Award, a public health distinction in Portugal. The publication, “Characterizing stakeholders in cancer primary prevention in European countries: an exploration of challenges and opportunities using a penta-helix framework”, was published in the journal Frontiers in Public Health in July 2025, being led by a team of researchers from the National Institute of Health Doctor Ricardo Jorge (INSA) and the University of Aveiro (UA), both in Portugal, in collaboration with partners from other countries of the 4P-CAN consortium.
This publication addresses the crucial role of multisectoral involvement in cancer primary prevention across Europe. Drawing on survey and interview data from participants in nine European countries, the study examined how actors from the public sector, academia, the private sector, media, and civil society contribute to cancer prevention efforts. The findings highlight the public sector as the main driver of action, while emphasising that effective cancer prevention can benefit from the active involvement of all sectors. By identifying both challenges and opportunities for each stakeholder group, the research provides valuable insights into how European countries can strengthen prevention strategies.
The Arnaldo Sampaio Award (Prémio Arnaldo Sampaio) is a prestigious distinction in Portugal that celebrates outstanding scientific contributions and promotes innovation in health research. It is sponsored by Sanofi, being awarded by the Portuguese Association for Public Health Promotion (APPSP, Associação Portuguesa para a Promoção da Saúde Pública), an institution dedicated to promoting public health through research, knowledge dissemination, and collaboration between health, academic, public, and community stakeholders. The award is named in honour of Professor Arnaldo Sampaio (1908–1984), a pioneering Portuguese public health physician whose work helped shape modern public health policy in Portugal.
This recognition reflects the strength of the 4P-CAN consortium and its commitment to advancing innovative, evidence-based approaches to cancer prevention and care. Bringing together researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and other stakeholders across Europe, the project demonstrates the value of international and multidisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex cancer-related challenges. This award is a significant acknowledgement of these efforts and the scientific excellence of the project.
© Picture: Luis Filipe de Almeida Roxo and Mafalda Sousa-Uva
