Andorra Cancer Leader Urges Housing, Data Fixes on World Cancer Day

Josep Saravia, president of Assandca, the Andorran Association Against Cancer, has renewed calls for structural improvements in cancer care during World Cancer Day on 4 February, highlighting shortages in supervised housing in Barcelona and the absence of official statistics.

Andorran patients requiring treatment in Barcelona often rely on supervised flats, primarily for those travelling with an escort. Saravia noted that availability has become a major issue due to the city's growing saturation. "There are times when we cannot find flats," he said, adding that when patients are hospitalised, escorts lose access. In such cases, social services occasionally arrange private rentals as a stopgap. Years ago, Assandca proposed that the government invest in dedicated properties, but the idea was rejected.

Saravia emphasised the lack of a national cancer registry, describing current data as incomplete since they cover only hospital cases. He estimated 25-30% of patients receive care abroad, leaving planners "working blind" for prevention campaigns. SAAS recorded 509 cancer patients in 2025, with prostate (99 cases), breast (88) and colorectal (89) cancers most common—figures proportional to Spain's but without comprehensive tracking.

The radiotherapy unit project remains stalled, despite earlier commitments. Saravia suggested around 500 annual cases, with 60% needing radiotherapy—potentially 250 treatments yearly. As an alternative, he urged more supervised flats if the unit does not materialise.

Health Minister Helena Mas attended Assandca's 'Paella pel Mànec' event with Lycée Comte de Foix, a nutrition workshop for patients led by chef Hugues Lemarignier and SAAS dietitian Marta Pons. Mas praised prevention efforts like screenings and the breast cancer unit, announcing the National Oncology Plan for release in one to one-and-a-half months. The plan, developed participatively with professionals and councillors, aims to address pending issues and clarify oncology services.

Assandca also awaits publication of the recently approved healthcare forgetfulness law to assess its protections against discrimination in employment and insurance. For 2026, the association plans enhanced patient support, including meeting spaces, discounted podiatry, yoga and gym activities.

Meanwhile, Creand Foundation hosted a conference on precision oncology, featuring Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell oncology head Santiago Albiol, internal medicine adjunct Cristina Royo, and oncological nutritionist Noemí Ruiz. Albiol explained the shift from general treatments like chemotherapy to personalised approaches based on tumour genetics and patient traits, improving efficacy and reducing side effects. Challenges include drug specificity, variable responses and high costs.

Royo detailed the long-term survivor clinic, launched in 2023 and handling 600-800 annual visits, prioritising high-recurrence cases. It monitors relapses, treatment toxicities, cognitive, emotional and hormonal issues.

Ruiz warned that 15-40% of newly diagnosed patients are malnourished, rising to 80% during treatment, with muscle loss hindering drug tolerance and recovery. Tailored nutrition, she said, forms part of therapy, aiding resilience, microbiota recovery and quality of life—while cautioning against unproven miracle diets. Survival rates have doubled over 40 years due to early detection and advances.