The Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) has published a new funding guideline in the Federal Gazette to support interdisciplinary research networks on the topic of old age and cancer. The measure is part of the National Decade Against Cancer and aims to improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of age-related cancers and to increase the quality of life of older patients.

Old age is the biggest risk factor for cancer, with 60 percent of diagnoses and 70 percent of deaths in people over 65. In view of the demographic development, an increase in incidence is expected. The funding is intended to decipher causal relationships between aging processes and cancer, develop prevention strategies, improve oncological therapies for the elderly, and analyze ethical and social aspects. Funding is provided to networks from the natural sciences, medicine and other disciplines that pursue innovative approaches.

The funding is provided as a non-repayable grant for up to three years. Universities, research institutions, self-help groups, patient organisations and companies are eligible to apply. Project outlines can be submitted to the DLR Project Management Agency by 20 February 2026. The evaluation is based on relevance, scientific quality, patient participation and innovation potential. Results are to be used in Germany, the EEA or Switzerland. Open Access publications and compliance with the FAIR principles for research data are mandatory.

Original Paper:

Guidelines for the Funding of Research Networks on the Topic of Age and Cancer – Health Research BMFTR

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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