The Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) and the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) are focused on improving cancer survival rates in Spain, with a national goal of reaching 70% survival by . Current forecasts indicate an increase in cancer cases, but advancements in research and treatment offer hope for continued improvement.
Rising Cancer Cases Forecasted for 2026
According to SEOM, is projected to see 301,884 new cancer cases diagnosed in Spain, representing a 2% increase compared to the previous year. This underscores the continued need for robust prevention strategies, early detection programs, and ongoing research.
Progress in Cancer Survival Rates
Despite the projected rise in cases, significant progress has been made in cancer survival over the past four decades. Survival rates have doubled in the last 40 years, and are expected to continue increasing, albeit slowly, with the implementation of new treatments and expanded screening programs. Data from the Spanish Network of Cancer Registries (REDECAN) show a positive trend in five-year net survival rates. Between and , the five-year survival rate for men diagnosed with cancer was 57.4%, while for women it was 65.2%. These figures represent an improvement compared to the – period, with a 1.3 percentage point increase for men and a 2.6 percentage point increase for women.
Key Risk Factors and Prevention
Preventive measures remain crucial in reducing cancer mortality. Identified avoidable risk factors include tobacco and alcohol consumption, and obesity. According to AECC President Mª Auxiliadora Cabanás, “Only smoking is responsible for, practically, 50% of cancer cases.” Public health initiatives aimed at reducing these risk factors are essential.
AECC’s Commitment to Research and Support
The AECC is heavily invested in cancer research, having allocated approximately €350,000 to research through its scientific foundation in the province of Córdoba in . The organization has a long-standing commitment to advocating for the implementation of cancer screening programs within the public healthcare system. Breast and colon cancer screenings are now established, and the AECC continues to push for the introduction of new screenings, including those for prostate, cervical, and lung cancer. Cabanás emphasizes the importance of screening, stating, “Screenings save lives, despite the errors that may have occurred. You should always attend.”
The AECC’s efforts extend beyond research and advocacy to provide comprehensive support services to cancer patients. These services include psychological support, speech therapy, physiotherapy, nutritional guidance, and even temporary housing. They also offer various workshops and health promotion activities. In the province of Córdoba, the AECC reaches 24% of cancer patients, which is double the national average, due to the increased range of services offered.
The 70% Survival Goal
The AECC has set an ambitious goal to achieve a 70% cancer survival rate by . Mª Auxiliadora Cabanás believes that increased investment in research is key to achieving this target, stating, “The more investment we make in research, the better the results will be and survival will increase.” The organization recognizes that collaborative efforts among leading research teams are essential to address the most significant challenges in cancer research.
Current survival rates in Spain are reported as 55.3% for men and 61.7%, figures that remain below the national 70% target. The AECC and its Scientific Foundation are actively working to bridge this gap through continued funding of research projects and promotion of scientific talent.
World Cancer Day and Ongoing Commitment
World Cancer Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for commitment to scientific research, prevention, and public awareness. The Spanish Association Against Cancer, with 69 years of experience, continues to be a leading entity in the fight against cancer, working to address inequities and improve outcomes for patients across Spain.
