Cancer Research UK is the world’s leading charity dedicated to research on the causes, treatment and prevention of cancer. Their vision is to conquer cancer through world-class research, aiming to control the disease within two generations. They support the work of over 3,000 scientists, doctors and nurses working across the UK. Their annual scientific spend is more than £213 million, which is raised almost entirely through public donations. Cancer Research UK works alone and in partnership with others to achieve the following objectives: to carry out world-class research into the biology and causes of cancer; to develop better treatments and improve the quality of life for cancer patients; to reduce the number of people getting cancer; and to provide authoritative information on cancer.

 The European Heart Network (EHN) is a Brussels-based alliance of heart foundations and likeminded non-governmental organisations throughout Europe, with member organisations in 26 countries. The EHN plays a leading role in the prevention and reduction of cardiovascular disease through advocacy, networking and education so that it is no longer a major cause of premature death and disability throughout Europe. To achieve its aim, EHN dedicates itself to: influencing European policy makers in favour of a heart-healthy lifestyle; creating and nurturing ties between organisations concerned with CVD prevention; gathering and disseminating information relevant to CVD prevention; monitoring European Union policy; encouraging support for comprehensive CVD research. Through its membership of the World Heart Federation, EHN is also active in the creation of a wider international heart network whose aim is to advance the cause of cardiovascular health promotion world-wide.

 The European Respiratory Society (ERS) is a non-profit, international medical organisation with over 7,000 members from 100 countries. It was founded in 1990 and is the largest organisation in its field in Europe. The main objective of the Society is to promote respiratory health in Europe in order to alleviate suffering from respiratory disease and it is the leading forum in Europe for the presentation of research findings and for exchange of knowledge between all scientists and health professionals involved in respiratory medicine. This is accomplished by promoting basic epidemiological and clinical respiratory research, collecting and disseminating scientific information, organising congresses and conferences, producing scientific publications, supporting training and continuous education in respiratory medicine and collaborating with organisations who represent patients and their carers. Through its diverse activities, the ERS seeks to improve the prevention, management and treatment of lung disease.