AIRC Foundation launches 61st Research Days campaign in Italy

The AIRC Foundation has launched its 61st edition of “Giorni della Ricerca” (Research Days), a national campaign running from October 28 to November 15. The initiative opened with a ceremony at the Quirinale, attended by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Health Minister Schillaci, and Research Minister Anna Maria Bernini.

To fund over 770 active oncological research projects in Italy, the campaign encourages public contributions via SMS or phone calls to the number 45521. A major fundraising event, “I Cioccolatini della Ricerca,” will take place in approximately 2,500 Italian squares on November 7 and 8, where volunteers will distribute chocolate boxes in exchange for a minimum donation of 15 euros. Donations can also be made through Banco BPM and Amazon.

In addition to national fundraising, regional initiatives are promoting cancer prevention and early diagnosis. In areas such as Varese and Busto Garolfo, local organizations and banks have organized mobile medical units, free screenings, and scientific conferences to raise awareness about oncological health and the importance of research in improving survival rates.