Radiotherapy is a type of cancer treatment which uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.

The demand for radiotherapy is projected to rise in Europe over the next decade due to multiple factors such as an increase in cancer incidence, the ageing population, and advances in technology.

Cancer incidence is on the rise

The incidence of cancer continues to increase worldwide, with an estimated 4.3 million new cases in Europe in 2020 alone. This increasing trend is projected to continue, with an estimated 5.3 million new cases by 2040.

The most common types of cancer in Europe are breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer.

The ageing population

The European population is ageing, with the number of people aged 65 and over projected to increase from 19% in 2020 to 25% in 2050.

Cancer is more common in older people, and this demographic shift will result in an increased demand for cancer treatments like radiotherapy.

Advances in technology

Advances in technology have allowed for more precise and effective radiotherapy treatments.

Techniques such as intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) allow for more targeted radiation delivery, reducing side effects and improving outcomes. As these technologies become more widespread, the demand for radiotherapy is likely to increase.

Investment in radiotherapy infrastructure

To meet the rising demand for radiotherapy, investment in infrastructure is necessary. This includes equipment such as linear accelerators, as well as staffing and training.

The European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) has called for investment in radiotherapy to ensure that all cancer patients in Europe have access to high-quality treatment.

The importance of radiotherapy in cancer treatment

Radiotherapy is a crucial component of cancer treatment, with over 50% of cancer patients receiving radiotherapy at some point during their treatment. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy.

Radiotherapy can also be used to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with advanced cancer.

The role of radiotherapy in cancer care

Despite its importance, radiotherapy is often underused or unavailable in many parts of Europe.

According to a report by the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), around one-third of cancer patients in Europe do not have access to radiotherapy when they need it. This highlights the urgent need for investment in radiotherapy infrastructure and training.

The economic impact of radiotherapy

Rising demand for radiotherapy will have significant economic implications. A study by the European Cancer Organisation (ECCO) estimates that the cost of treating cancer in Europe will increase from €126 billion in 2020 to €158 billion in 2040.

A significant proportion of this cost will be related to radiotherapy, making investment in radiotherapy infrastructure a sound economic decision in the long term.

The need for a coordinated approach

Meeting the rising demand for radiotherapy will require a coordinated approach at the European level. This includes investment in infrastructure and training, as well as the development of guidelines and standards for radiotherapy delivery.

Collaboration between countries and institutions will be necessary to ensure that all cancer patients in Europe have access to high-quality radiotherapy treatment.

Conclusion

The demand for radiotherapy is projected to rise in Europe over the next decade due to factors such as an increase in cancer incidence, the ageing population, and advances in technology.

Investment in radiotherapy infrastructure and training is necessary to meet this rising demand and ensure that all cancer patients in Europe have access to high-quality treatment. A coordinated approach at the European level will be necessary to achieve this goal.