Dec 12, 2024
Like many nations across the world, 1 of the biggest challenges in oncology facing Sweden is a growing number of patients with cancer, including a large subset of elderly patients and those with comorbidities. In this episode, Dr. Mef Nilbert also explains that data sharing issues with other countries in Europe makes collaboration difficult. Two areas of great success, however, are prevention and early detection, with approximately 85%-90% of Sweden’s population vaccinated against HPV. According to Dr. Nilbert, the simple success story is that this vaccination is offered for free in schools to all boys and girls at age 13. This achievement along with continuously improving hereditary cancer diagnostics are exciting developments that serve as powerful lessons from which other nations can benefit.
Guest:
Mef Nilbert, MD, PhD
Professor, Department of Oncology
Skåne University Hospital and Lund University
Lund, Sweden
Quote:
“This is not the time for competition in oncology. It’s the time for collaboration, especially if we want to be successful in science, precision medicine, and prevention.”
Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog.
Additional Resources:
HPV Vaccination: Engaging Community Partners for Success – Oncology Issues
Cancer Crushing Prevention and Early Detection – Oncology Issues
Time to Get Screened – Oncology Issues
A Comprehensive Cancer Risk Management Clinic for Families With Hereditary Cancer Syndromes – Oncology Issues
ACCC Signs Letter in Support of the Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act