THE cancer incidence data in Spain The results obtained by the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) and ANCAP put the number of cases of prostate cancer at 33,769 and 6,112 deaths due to this cause, which ranks it first. the most common first tumor in men. These figures demonstrate a gradual growth in cases accumulated over the past five years.
However, despite these data, the Minister of Health, Mónica García, maintains her lack of commitment to patients with pancreatic cancer, whom she excludes from basic benefits due to the numerous side effects of treatments such as urinary incontinencewhich makes it necessary to establish real financing for absorbents, because current coverage is limited and seriously affects patients’ self-esteem. Likewise, it is not included in the SNS service portfolio. pelvic floor rehabilitation using electromyographic and ultrasound systems, essential to improve motor control of the muscles and nerve cells involved. This forces patients to assume these costs in private healthcare, which generates inequalities in access.
In the case of erectile dysfunctionthe SNS also does not cover necessary pharmacological treatments, such as sildenafil (Viagra, Vizarsin) and tadalafil (Cialis), which work by dilating blood vessels in the penis to facilitate blood flow during sexual stimulation. Furthermore, the prescription of penile prosthesis implants for patients who meet the medical criteria for their implantation, despite the importance of these devices for the quality of life of the people concerned.
Prostate cancer (PCa) is known as invisible cancer. However, it ranks first in incidence among men, accounting for 21% of the 161,651 annual cases of all types of cancer diagnosed in men, surpassing lung cancer and colorectal cancer.
But another fact is found in the field of oncology, where the percentage of availability of new treatments in Spain is 57%, well below other European countries. Germany, for example, reaches 98% availability, while Italy records 83%, England 76% and France 72%. These figures show a significant gap that affects Spanish patients’ access to innovative therapies.
Additionally, where we live influences health. Even though we are all exposed to the same illnesses, not all patients have the same opportunities to treat them. For all these reasons, patients report lack of equity in the distribution of resources between the Autonomous Communities, both in general terms and specifically in the treatment of prostate cancer (PCa).
In this sense, both the National Health System (SNS) and the common services portfoliorequires a modification of the procedure for updating benefits and services, so that patient associations can actively participate in this process. Currently, this procedure It is opaque for patients, which makes it difficult for them to contribute to the improvement of services that directly concern them.
Therefore, it is essential that the ministry headed by Mónica García, integrate these needs into the coverage of the National Health System ensure comprehensive and equitable care for patients with PCA, improving not only their physical health, but also their emotional well-being and quality of life.
