Andorra Unveils 2026-2030 Oncology Plan Prioritising Early Detection Over Local Radiotherapy

The Andorran government has unveiled its National Oncology Plan for 2026-2030, prioritising early cancer detection, coordinated care and patient support over developing in-country radiotherapy services.

Health Minister Helena Mas presented the roadmap on Thursday alongside Josep Maria Borràs, a University of Barcelona professor advising on the plan. Andorra currently diagnoses around 400 cancer cases annually, with projections for an increase due to population ageing. The most common types include breast cancer at 14%, colorectal at 13%, prostate at 11%, lung at nearly 10% and bladder at 7% of cases.

Borràs stated that a radiotherapy unit would require at least 1,500 annual diagnoses to ensure viability and quality, far exceeding current figures. He noted that a radiotherapy team needs about 450 patients yearly to operate efficiently, aligning with European averages. Fewer than half of patients require such treatment, equating to 170-180 cases now. "Volume determines maximum quality," Borràs said, advocating referrals to specialised centres in Spain and France for optimal outcomes rather than investing locally.

The plan builds on existing efforts, including breast cancer screening starting in 2025 and colorectal programmes. It allocates nearly €2 million for new oncology facilities and expands early detection for breast, colorectal, lung, cervical and prostate cancers.

Key milestones include: - 2026: Establish an advisory council with patient input; assess feasibility of a lung cancer pilot screening for high-risk smokers (those with over 30 pack-years); publish expanded cancer registry data; form a working group for patient quality-of-life improvements. - 2027: Launch cervical cancer screening protocol; run prostate cancer awareness campaign. - 2028: Extend breast screening to age 45 (from current 50-74 range, post ongoing cycle); develop prostate screening protocol. - 2030: Achieve 75% breast screening uptake and 70% colorectal; introduce population-wide cervical screening.

Additional measures cover multidisciplinary tumour committees, rapid diagnostics, genetic counselling, precision oncology, reinforced psycho-oncology, specialised rehabilitation and training for professionals, patients and caregivers. Mas emphasised establishing priorities for person-centred care.

Borràs highlighted Andorra's strong baseline, with quick diagnoses and collaboration with Barcelona and Toulouse reference centres. He cautioned that intensified screening causes an initial case surge before stabilising after two years. About half of patients currently travel abroad for specialised treatments, a model set to continue.