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# FDA Still Faster than EMA on Cancer Approvals
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/fda-still-faster-than-ema-on-cancer-approvals/
- Published: 2025-02-13T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-14T14:53:07.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: Drugs, #legacy-id-D5158658

A Friends of Cancer Research study update found FDA continues to review and approve novel oncology drugs faster than the European Medicines Association (EMA), oncology drugs are submitted for review earlier at FDA, and drug sponsors use FDA’s expedited programs more frequently than those at the EMA. “These factors, in part, likely contribute to novel oncology drugs reaching patients more quickly in the U.S.,” the [report](https://friendsofcancerresearch.org/blog/20-years-of-fda-leadership-in-novel-cancer-drug-approvals/?ref=fdaweb.com) authors conclude.

They say their findings underscore the importance of continuous evaluation and optimization of FDA regulatory processes. “Support for these regulatory processes will enable FDA to continue to serve as a global leader in efficient approval of novel drugs, particularly those addressing unmet needs in the treatment of serious or life-threatening conditions,” they say.

Friends of Cancer Research first published a study in 2011 challenging the prevailing narrative of the time that FDA was slower and less efficient than other regulatory authorities. That study was updated in 2017 in response to reemerging criticism that FDA was hindering the availability of treatments for U.S. patients, and again found that the agency was faster and more efficient.

For the 2025 update, the authors compared review times for the 152 novel oncology drugs that were approved by both FDA and EMA between 1/2003 and 12/2024, excluding those withdrawn after approval. Of the 152 drugs, they say, 94% were approved by FDA before EMA.