The latest data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NKR) reveals a significant improvement in cancer survival rates over the past two decades. This comprehensive data shows that advancements in treatment methods, innovative medicines, and enhanced diagnostics have substantially increased the chances of survival for cancer patients in the country.
Why this is important:
Enhanced therapies, early detection, and innovative treatment options are leading to higher survival rates for cancer patients, highlighting the importance of continued medical advancements.
From 2018 to 2022, the five-year survival rate for cancer patients has risen by 2 percentage points, reaching 68%, compared to the previous period of 2013-2017. This means that more than two-thirds of patients diagnosed with cancer during this time are expected to survive at least five years post-diagnosis.
Innovative drugs drive survival improvements
One of the key factors contributing to these improvements is the introduction of dozens of new drugs over the past decades. Particularly in lung cancer, significant advancements have been noted with the availability of new medications from 2017 onwards.
The Netherlands itself ranks high globally in cancer research and innovation standing at the forefront of developing new cancer treatments. For example, start-up UPyTher has pioneered a novel method for treating peritoneal cancer by injecting chemotherapy into the abdominal cavity in the form of a gel. This gel acts as a depot, gradually releasing the chemotherapy, thereby exposing tumors to the treatment for longer periods and enhancing its effectiveness.
Early detection and intervention strategies
Early detection and better diagnostics also play a crucial role in improving survival rates. Population screenings for cancers such as colon cancer and advanced imaging techniques that facilitate more targeted treatments have made early intervention possible, further boosting survival chances.
Additionally, advancements and innovations in this area further contribute to higher survival rates. Scientists at the Radboud University Medical Center for instance, developed recently a blood test capable to detect the return of blood cancer a year earlier.
