Since 2018, the Government of Spain has allocated a total of €1.137 billion to research and innovation projects focused on the fight against cancer, to strengthen prevention, early diagnosis, and the development of more effective treatments. This sustained investment reflects a strategic commitment to biomedical science and to reinforcing the public healthcare system.

The Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities channels these resources through the main funding bodies of the national R&D&I system: the Carlos III Health Institute, the State Research Agency, and the Centre for Technological Development and Innovation. This targeted funding is complemented by structural support for public research organisations and their researchers, as well as by the scientific activity carried out by the Spanish National Research Council.

A significant share of the funding has been allocated to biomedical and health research projects, with a substantial increase in investment in recent years driven by strategic initiatives aimed at modernising the healthcare system. These actions range from epidemiological studies and chronic disease research to advanced programmes in oncology, personalised medicine and innovative therapies.

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€1.137 billion allocated to cancer research since 2018

The State Research Agency has supported a large number of cancer-related projects, including knowledge-generation initiatives designed to improve treatments for cancers with poor prognosis through advanced imaging technologies and new radiotherapy approaches, such as proton therapy.

In parallel, the Centre for Technological Development and Innovation has promoted the development of technological solutions for cancer diagnosis and treatment, supporting business-led projects based on artificial intelligence, biomarkers, immunotherapy and advanced medical devices. It also plays a role in the deployment of pioneering scientific infrastructures, including research in hadron therapy using carbon ion accelerators.

The Spanish National Research Council makes a significant contribution through numerous competitive research projects at national, regional and European level, as well as through collaborative networks that foster cooperation between research groups, hospitals, companies and patient associations. These initiatives help consolidate a research ecosystem focused on accelerating knowledge transfer and improving clinical outcomes in oncology.

Overall, public investment in cancer research positions Spain as a relevant player in scientific progress against this disease and strengthens the capacity of the science and innovation system to address one of the most pressing public health challenges.