In the latest webinar held on November 29, 2023, titled “Implementation of EU Cancer Screening Recommendations in Romania: Barriers and Opportunities”, organised by the Centre for Innovation in Medicine, together with All.Can International and EFPIA Oncology Platform, experts delved into the significant updates in EU cancer screening guidelines and their impact on Romanian healthcare. The revised recommendations extend beyond traditional screenings for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers to include lung, prostate, and gastric cancers, reflecting a broadened scope in cancer prevention strategies. This expansion is especially crucial for Eastern Europe, where the challenge of implementing effective cancer screening programs is compounded by a high cancer burden and unique regional challenges.
Key takeaways from the webinar emphasized the critical need for commitment from Romanian authorities, including the allocation of appropriate funding, effective monitoring of outcomes, and the establishment of well-trained and organized networks. The success of these programs hinges on quality control, well-equipped facilities, and ensuring adequate treatment capacities. Experts highlighted the importance of creating an optimal patient journey, supported by multidisciplinary teams and specialized centres for patients with solid tumours. This approach is underscored by the success of colorectal cancer screening pilots in Romania, which have notably detected a significant number of early-stage cancers, demonstrating the efficacy of early detection.
Further discussions addressed the necessity of innovating screening programs and developing more accessible tests, along with the ongoing research and development of new screening methods. The webinar also touched on the promising field of genomic testing, advocating for its further development and integration into public health strategies. Romanian officials, showing strong support, contributed valuable insights into the implementation of these new EU cancer screening recommendations, marking a pivotal step in enhancing cancer prevention and care in Romania.