With cutting-edge research and regulatory support, Spain has become a leader in oncology in Europe. Innovations such as CAR-T cells and immunotherapy offer new hope, though challenges remain.
Cancer diagnoses in Spain are projected to rise by 3% in 2025, according to the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM).
However, cancer-related deaths have declined due to advancements in therapies and personalized treatments that reduce side effects and improve outcomes.
Spain is now at the forefront of oncology research in Europe, surpassing traditional leaders like France and Germany, reports El Economista.
A Diverse Portfolio of Cancer Treatments
Spain has seen significant innovation across all areas of cancer care, including two major therapeutic approaches: targeted therapies and immunotherapy.
Targeted therapies are used when the genetic or molecular cause of a tumor is identified. These therapies "switch off" the mechanisms that fuel cancer growth.
Among the most advanced treatments in this category are CAR-T therapies. These involve genetically modifying immune cells to target and destroy cancer cells.
Currently used for leukemias and lymphomas, CAR-T is being explored for solid tumors despite concerns about its high cost and potential toxicity.
On the other hand, immunotherapy stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Initially developed for melanoma, immunotherapy is now used for lung, breast, digestive, and esophageal cancers.
Experts like Dr. Pilar López Criado of MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid emphasize that combining immunotherapy with other treatments—such as targeted therapies or chemotherapy—can enhance effectiveness, though at the cost of increased complexity and toxicity.
A hybrid treatment known as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) is also gaining traction. These therapies combine targeted antibodies with active agents that specifically attack tumor cells. ADCs are being used for cancers such as breast, lung, and urothelial tumors.
Technological and Genomic Advances
Technological advancements have further improved cancer care. Innovations include robotic surgery, advanced imaging techniques, and radiotherapy.
A promising area is radiopharmaceuticals—nuclear medicine treatments that deliver radioactive isotopes directly to cancer cells. Dr. López Criado likens this to "directing a nuclear bomb to act specifically on the target area."
Genomic sequencing has also revolutionized oncology by identifying genetic mutations in tumors, enabling the development of targeted therapies that block these alterations.
As Spain continues to expand research and clinical trials, experts believe these innovations will help sustain its leadership in the fight against cancer.
In 2024, Spain authorized 930 clinical studies, 37.6% of which focused on cancer treatments, according to Dr. Rebeca Lozano from SEOM.
This momentum highlights the country's commitment to integrating the latest scientific breakthroughs into its healthcare system.
