Freedom from the stigma of oncologic disease: legislative and ethical aspects of the right to be forgotten in oncology

Cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention advances have significantly improved European outcomes, but the stigma surrounding cancer survivorship remains challenging. Discrimination against cancer survivors has a negative impact on their quality of life, autonomy, and financial stability. While some European countries have implemented legislation recognizing the “right to be forgotten” for cancer survivors, Italy has no such protective measures. This leaves cancer survivors in Italy susceptible to discrimination based on their medical history. Both the European Union Cancer Plan and the European Parliament resolution stress the importance of safeguarding the rights of cancer survivors and preventing discrimination. Although implementation of legislation at the European level may take time, it is essential that national legislatures, including Italy’s, act quickly. This article explores the issue of discrimination against cancer survivors in Europe, focusing on the specific case of Italy. It examines existing legislative solutions and assesses their effectiveness in addressing discrimination. It also discusses the ethical considerations associated with the “right to be forgotten” in oncology, emphasizing its role in promoting equality and safeguarding the privacy of cancer survivors