What actions will you be taking on alcohol? Europe has the highest levels of alcohol consumption in the world and alcohol-attributable cancer is a major health concern. In spite of this, awareness of alcohol as a risk factor for cancer is low. https://www.eudebates.tv/debates/eu-policies/employment-and-social-affairs/we-are-living-longer-and-we-need-a-european-plan-for-ageing-population/ Strengthening alcohol control policies is necessary to prevent alcohol-attributable cancer cases and deaths. The Commission will therefore support Member States to implement a wide range of policies such as reductions in alcohol affordability and availability, limits on advertising and promotion, and raising awareness about the risk of alcohol consumption and cancer.

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In addition, the Commission will review EU legislation on the taxation of alcohol. It will also review EU tax legislation on the cross-border purchase of alcohol products. A public consultation is currently ongoing on this matter.

What actions will you be taking on tobacco?

Cigarette smoking and other forms of tobacco use is responsible for 15-20% of all European cancer cases, making this the top avoidable risk factor. As well as dealing with traditional tobacco products, addressing the next generation of tobacco and related products will remain a priority as new products such as heated tobacco and others continue to enter the market. Young people need to be protected from picking up lasting habits that are damaging to health.

The Plan will put forward actions to help create a ‘Tobacco-Free Generation' by taking a comprehensive approach to tobacco, including:

a review of the Tobacco Products Directive to make product regulation stricter,
reviewing the Tobacco Taxation Directive in order to revise EU minima taxation rates for tobacco products and to harmonise the taxation of novel products,
reviewing EU tax legislation on cross-border purchases of tobacco products: a public consultation is currently ongoing on this matter,
addressing tobacco advertisement, promotion and sponsorship in social media and online services, and,
supporting Member States in implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
The Commission will propose an update to the Council Recommendation on Smoke-Free Environments and recommend extending its coverage to emerging products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. The Cancer Plan will also give new impetus for Member States to improve the enforcement of existing legislation within their overall tobacco control strategies, including sales to minors and smoking cessation campaigns.

What actions will you be taking on food?