PACE is a European project that aims to improve access to cancer-preventive services for people living in prison and detention settings. The project focuses on prevention, vaccination, screening and better links to healthcare for adults and juveniles in carceral settings across Europe, with a focus on human papillomavirus and viral hepatitis (HBV and HCV).

The main goal of PACE is to reduce inequalities in cancer prevention by helping prison health systems provide more effective and accessible preventive care.

PACE is funded by the European Union through the EU4Health Programme (EU4H-PJG), which supports actions to improve health systems and reduce health inequalities across Europe.

PACE brings together partners from seven European countries: Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Moldova, Portugal and Romania.

PACE is a three-year project running from 2025 to 2028.

PACE aims to leave practical tools, policy recommendations and sustainable models that can continue to support prison health systems after the project has finished.

Health in prisons is closely linked to public health. Improving prevention and care in prison settings can reduce health inequalities and strengthen community health beyond prison walls.

Prevention helps identify health risks early and can reduce avoidable illness. In prison settings, prevention can improve health outcomes for people who often face barriers to healthcare.

PACE focuses on cancers linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) and viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B Virus, Hepatitis C Virus).

Some infections can lead to cancer later in life. Vaccination can prevent these infections and reduce the risk of developing certain cancers.

Health equity means ensuring that everyone has fair access to prevention and healthcare, regardless of their social circumstances or where they live.

PACE focuses on adults and young people living in detention who may face barriers to vaccination, screening and access to healthcare services.

PACE uses participatory approaches that include the perspectives of people with lived experience to help make interventions more relevant and effective.

Yes. The project works closely with prison administrations, healthcare providers and public authorities to support practical implementation.

PACE provides tools, training and practical guidance to help healthcare professionals strengthen prevention services in prison settings.

PACE supports the Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and the Council Recommendation of 21 June 2024 on vaccine-preventable cancers, and contributes to wider EU efforts to reduce health inequalities and improve prevention.

PACE will develop practical models that can be adapted by prison health systems in different countries, helping improve prevention beyond the lifetime of the project.

Yes. Public reports, news and selected resources will be shared on this website as the project progresses.

You can explore the website to learn more about the project, its partners, activities and latest updates.