Sweden proposes updated cancer strategy to enhance patient outcomes and reduce waiting times

Sweden’s cancer care system is well-regarded internationally, but improvements are needed in certain areas. Mef Nilbert’s recent proposal for an updated cancer strategy emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and reducing waiting times in an effort to enhance patient outcomes.

During a press conference, the healthcare minister highlighted that while Sweden offers high-quality cancer care, cancer remains the leading cause of lost life years and is expected to become the most common cause of death. Swift action to improve treatment is crucial.

The proposed strategy outlines three main goals: reducing the risk of developing cancer, increasing early diagnoses, enhancing cancer survival rates, and ensuring the best possible quality of life for patients during and after treatment. A key recommendation is to limit the time from cancer diagnosis to the start of treatment to a maximum of three weeks. Furthermore, the proposal suggests that long-term follow-up for childhood and young adult cancer survivors should extend to individuals up to 29 years old, to monitor for late side effects that may arise years after treatment.

Additionally, the proposal includes a review of the pharmaceutical system, acknowledging that while drug development has advanced significantly, the existing system may be outdated in aspects such as pricing negotiations.

Other recommendations focus on preventive measures against cancer, such as addressing tobacco use, alcohol policies, promoting physical activity, and managing UV exposure.