1on1 s Christophom Zielinskim

In Slovakia, approximately 30 000 oncology patients are added each year and around 13 000 people die; the country ranks among the highest mortality in the EU, after Croatia and Hungary. The most common are colorectal, lung, and breast cancers. The lecture showed that two levers will bring change: rigorous prevention and screening, and rapid access to modern medicines.

Prevention and screening: where cancer can be averted

Colorectal cancer can largely be prevented: polyps removed during colonoscopy prevent the development of most tumors (an estimated more than 90 %), since most tumors arise from polyps. Screening is therefore among the most effective tools – it is both prevention and early detection. Similarly, mammography screening saves lives, especially in women over 50.

For lung cancer, early detection using low-dose CT helps, but the greatest effect comes from reducing smoking. The lecture emphasized proven measures: significant increases in cigarette prices, large and clear warnings, and limits on brand marketing. The pandemic also slowed screenings – for example, cervical screenings and mammograms dropped significantly in some regions – and they need to be restored. An important part of prevention is vaccination against HPV.

Innovation and fast reimbursement reduce mortality

The speaker identified access to innovative medicines as the key to survival. In Western Europe, an average of around 100 days elapses between EMA registration and the reimbursement decision, which is a national competence. In Slovakia it is approximately 590 days, and in some Southeast European countries even more than 1 000 days – without reimbursement the medicine often does not even reach the market. The faster the reimbursement, the lower the cancer mortality, as seen in countries such as Austria, Germany, or France.

New therapies change the course of the disease and allow patients to work. Targeted drugs in some cases keep, for example, lung tumors in long-term remission, and immunotherapy brings approximately one-third five-year survival in selected patients with advanced disease. Cost assessments should therefore also take into account savings in nursing care and preserved productivity. Not reimbursing these medicines means losing not only lives, but also economic benefits.

Priorities for Slovakia and Central Europe

The key is a political decision to make oncology a priority and to fulfill Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan also in Central and Southeast Europe. This includes investment in modern diagnostics including molecular testing, systematic education of doctors and nurses, and strong support for patient advocacy. Only then can we identify the right treatment for the right patient and make it available quickly. With 30 000 new cases and 13 000 deaths annually, the goal is clear: reduce mortality.

A better ecosystem also brings broader societal gains. The international reputation of experts brings top clinical trials, new procedures, conferences, and the creation of innovative companies – all of which create jobs and income for the country. Experiences in the region vary: Poland is improving, Romania faces difficulties, and outside the EU access to therapies is even weaker. Slovakia can move forward through a combination of rigorous prevention and rapid access to modern medicines.

1on1 with Christoph Zielinski

Prevention and screening: where cancer can be averted

Innovation and fast reimbursement reduce mortality

Priorities for Slovakia and Central Europe

Christoph Zielinski

1on1 with Christoph Zielinski

Prevention and screening: where cancer can be averted

Innovation and fast reimbursement reduce mortality

Priorities for Slovakia and Central Europe

Christoph Zielinski

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