The European project SUNRISE (SUstaiNable inteRventions and healthy behaviours for adoleScent primary prEvention of cancer with digital tools), funded by the Horizon Europe programme, continues its dynamic efforts to strengthen cancer prevention from adolescence through innovative, digital, and participatory approaches.
The first public event of the SUNRISE project took place on June 24, 2025, at the European Parliament in Brussels, under the patronage of MEP Vlad Voiculescu. The event brought together policymakers, public health experts, youth representatives, and researchers from across Europe, aiming to highlight the critical importance of cancer prevention starting from adolescence.
From the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU), Associate Professor Kleio Koutra participated. She is an expert in Social Work in Public Health and Director of the Laboratory of Applied Social Research and Social Work.
The event focused on the SUNRISE project, which was presented by Dr. Andreas Triantafyllidis (Centre for Research and Technology Hellas – CERTH), showcasing how digital tools can contribute to sustainable and healthy behavior changes among adolescents.
Additionally, important statements were made, highlighting cross-sectoral commitment to prevention and innovation, by the following:
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Vlad Voiculescu, Member of the European Parliament
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Dr. Delia Nicoară, Public Health Specialist & Project Manager, Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță Oncology Institute
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Marc Van den Bulcke, Head of the Belgian Cancer Centre, Sciensano
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Joost Wesseling, Executive Director, European Nutrition for Health Alliance (ENHA)
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Elias Blanckaert, Youth Representative
4th SUNRISE Project Plenary Meeting – Ghent, June 25–26, 2025
The 4th SUNRISE Plenary Meeting took place in Ghent, Belgium, hosted by Ghent University on June 25–26, 2025.
During the two-day meeting, project partners presented new digital tools and developed co-creation and co-design strategies aimed at promoting healthy and sustainable behavior changes among adolescents. In addition, ethical considerations and strategic dissemination planning were discussed, ensuring that the project remains accessible and fully aligned with the European Union’s priorities on health and cancer prevention.
Starting in September, the crucial phase of implementing the pilot actions will begin in school units in the municipalities of Heraklion and Malevizi, with the active involvement of students, parents, and teachers. SUNRISE continues to lead the way by offering innovative solutions that aim to build a healthier future for Europe’s youth.