Andorra Launches National Oncology Plan to 2030 Focusing on Early Detection and Referrals

Andorra has unveiled a new National Oncology Plan, set for progressive implementation from this year through 2030, prioritising early detection, patient coordination and quality care over full self-sufficiency in high-complexity treatments.

Health Minister Helena Mas presented the strategy, which acknowledges that the principality's roughly 400 annual cancer diagnoses—about half of which require referral to specialised centres in Spain or France—do not justify developing services like radiotherapy locally. Experts, including government adviser Dr Josep Maria Borràs, note that such units typically need around 1,500 cases yearly to maintain expertise and standards. Referrals will continue for treatments beyond Andorra's capacity, ensuring patient safety amid limited resources and an ageing population.

A key focus is expanding screening for the four most common cancers: breast (14% of cases), colorectal (13%), prostate (11%) and lung (nearly 10%). This year, following the creation of an advisory council, officials will conduct a feasibility study for a lung cancer pilot targeting high-risk smokers—those with 30 pack-years of exposure. Protocols for cervical and prostate cancer screenings are slated for design by 2027, with rollout after 2030. Existing breast cancer screening will extend to age 45 by 2028 (from 50 currently), and participation in breast and colorectal programmes aims to exceed 70-75% by 2030.

The plan also emphasises psycho-oncology, specialised rehabilitation, social support for long-term survivors, professional training and patient education. Mas stressed a "person-centred" approach with seamless care continuity.

Disagreement persists on case numbers. While official 2021 data cite 400 diagnoses, Assandca patient association president Josep Saravia argues the figure nears 500 per 100,000 residents, akin to neighbouring countries. This fuels debate on radiotherapy viability; Saravia cites international studies suggesting 200-250 cases suffice, calling current thresholds excessive and urging updated statistics. Despite critiques on data age and limited research—seen as a major gap—Assandca welcomes the prevention push as a positive step forward.