When you think of world centres for cancer research treatments, Spain might not be the country that jumps to mind; however, recent reports show that a combination of its healthcare system culture, highly-qualified native scientists, its place within the EU and its access to funding have allowed Spain to become a serious player in the world of oncology testing.
A prestigious national health scheme
Spain’s national health scheme, which conducts a wide range of research within the medical community, is well known for its high quality and well-designed infrastructures. The professionals working within the system are highly qualified, thanks to Spain’s excellent and affordable education network; what is more, Spain’s legal framework promotes both funding and legislation towards new medical research, which greatly benefits oncology testing.
World leader in oncology testing
According to research from the BEST Project, a measure of excellence in clinical research in Spain, the country’s involvement is huge. It includes activities in 58 hospitals, 45 separate research laboratories, and three independent research groups. 50 per cent of all clinical trials carried out in Spain are in oncology.
This rate compares with the European average of around 24 per cent, including clinical trial services available from providers such as . Across Spain, these oncology trails are concerned with prevention and diagnosis in addition to the treatment of cancer.
The search for treatments
While many public discussions refer to the search for a cure for cancer, most professionals in research roles are working on a treatment for cancer rather than a cure. Research in Spain in particular is focused on the investigation and development of antitumor drugs. These products entail long years of research and testing and constitute the most complex trails; however, with the help and support of innovative members of the pharmaceutical industry, headway is slowly being made.
Increases in cancer worldwide
While there is ever-more research into the causes and treatments of various cancers, there is also increasing incidence of cancer worldwide. During this time, Spain’s relationship with oncology has been steadily growing. In the last decade, around 20 per cent of Spain’s research was oncological, rising to around 35.4 per cent between 2009-2013 and now standing at 50 per cent. A growing need for cancer research has placed Spain front and centre for some of the most important developments this century.
