This paper aims to identify the perspective of multiple stakeholders on the socio-economic burden of cancer in Romania. The Romanian health system is among the poorest in the European Union and cancer patients are among the most vulnerable. They do not only face difficulties in accessing diagnosis and treatment, but they encounter obstacles on the labour market due to the lack of support from the authorities and business environment. Using a qualitative approach (focus group) different categories of stakeholders have been investigated: patient associations, practitioners (physicians), academics and labour market representatives. Six recurrent themes occurred from the analysis of these stakeholders’ perspectives: lack of data, financial toxicity of cancer caused by the burden of the “out of the pocket money”, healthcare insufficient resources (material and human), lack of interest in the patient needs, inconsistent and inefficient legal framework, and systemic deficiencies of the Romanian society. The results are important for policy makers in order to design a proper Cancer Policy in Romania. Read more

This study explores the direct costs and risk factors associated with cancer across European Union member states, emphasizing the economic and public health implications. A Cancer Risk Factors Index (CRFI) is developed to quantify and compare the impact of various determinants, including obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, socioeconomic conditions, and pollution. Using data from Eurostat and other authoritative sources, we analyze the correlation between CRFI scores, healthcare expenditures, and cancer mortality rates. Results reveal significant disparities in cancer risk factors and healthcare investments across countries, with lower CRFI scores generally associated with higher healthcare spending and improved outcomes. The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive public health strategies and targeted interventions to address modifiable risk factors, reduce cancer-related mortality, and promote equitable healthcare access. Read more