From theory to practice: Implementing next-generation sequencing and public health genomics in healthcare systems.

If Europe's health systems make a conscious decision to increase their utilization of technology and techniques that can enhance prevention and expedite early-stage diagnosis, they can effectively address the growing challenges of disease. By embracing these advancements, these health systems can significantly improve their response to emerging health issues.However, at present the effective integration and exploitation of these opportunities remains hesitant and suboptimal, and health and health services underperform accordingly, with patients suffering from the continuing variations in diagnosis and access to innovation. This paper presents a comprehensive study that examines the current state of various influential disciplines and factors in European countries. It specifically focuses on the adoption of Next Generation Screening technologies and the development stage of Public Health Genomics. The assessment of these areas is presented in the context of a rapidly changing policy environment, which provides an opportunity for a fundamental reconsideration of how and where new tools can be integrated into healthcare systems and routine practices. Top of Form.

Tackling the implementation gap for the uptake of NGS and advanced molecular diagnostics into healthcare systems.

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and liquid biopsy (LB) showed positive results in the fight against different cancer types. This paper aims to assess the uptake of advanced molecular diagnostics/NGS for quick and efficient genetic profiles of tumour cells. For that purpose, the European Alliance for Personalised Medicine conducted a series of expert interviews to ascertain the current status across member states. One stakeholder meeting was additionally conducted to prioritize relevant factors by stakeholders. Seven common pillars were identified, and twenty-five measures were defined based on these pillars. Results showed that a multi-faceted approach is necessary for successful NGS implementation and that regional differences may be influenced by healthcare policies, resources, and infrastructure. It is important to consider different correlations when interpreting the results and to use them as a starting point for further discussion.

Bridging the divide: addressing discrepancies between clinical guidelines, policy guidelines, and biomarker utilization.

OBJECTIVES: This paper aims to identify and address gaps in cancer treatment and diagnosis within European health services, focusing specifically on discrepancies between clinical guidelines and policy guidelines. It seeks to highlight how the underutilization of advanced diagnostic techniques recommended by medical societies contributes to missed opportunities for improving patient outcomes. METHODS: A comprehensive analysis was conducted across multiple European countries to assess the compliance and integration of clinical guidelines with the availability of advanced diagnostic technologies. Secondary data related to clinical and policy guidelines in cancer care were collected and analyzed. Key indicators of adoption and utilization of next-generation sequencing and liquid biopsy were examined to evaluate their impact on health service efficiency and patient care. RESULTS: The analysis revealed significant discrepancies between the recommendations of medical societies regarding advanced diagnostic techniques and their adoption in health policy decisions across Europe. Country-specific assessments indicated varying levels of alignment between clinical guidelines and the availability of advanced diagnostics. These findings underscored missed opportunities for optimizing patient care and health service efficiency through better alignment and integration of clinical guidelines with policy decisions. CONCLUSIONS: This study concludes that there is a critical need for health policy decision-makers to prioritize the adoption of clinical guidelines in resource allocation and health service organization. Greater attention to the recommendations of medical societies regarding advanced diagnostic techniques could significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy, treatment efficacy, and overall patient outcomes in cancer care. The paper advocates for policy reforms that acknowledge and leverage the potential benefits of advanced diagnostics in improving health service performance and patient-centered care across Europe.

Demographic Analysis of Cancer Research Priorities and Treatment Correlations.

Understanding the diversity in cancer research priorities and the correlations among different treatment modalities is essential to address the evolving landscape of oncology. This study, conducted in collaboration with the European Cancer Patient Coalition (ECPC) and Childhood Cancer International-Europe (CCI-E) as part of the "UNCAN.eu" initiative, analyzed data from a comprehensive survey to explore the complex interplay of demographics, time since cancer diagnosis, and types of treatments received. Demographic analysis revealed intriguing trends, highlighting the importance of tailoring cancer research efforts to specific age groups and genders. Individuals aged 45-69 exhibited highly aligned research priorities, emphasizing the need to address the unique concerns of middle-aged and older populations. In contrast, patients over 70 years demonstrated a divergence in research priorities, underscoring the importance of recognising the distinct needs of older individuals in cancer research. The analysis of correlations among different types of cancer treatments underscored the multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, precision therapy, and biological therapies playing integral roles. These findings support the need for personalized and combined treatment strategies to achieve optimal outcomes. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the complexity of cancer research priorities and treatment correlations in a European context. It emphasizes the importance of a multifaceted, patient-centred approach to cancer research and treatment, highlighting the need for ongoing support, adaptation, and collaboration to address the ever-changing landscape of oncology.

Aligning Cancer Research Priorities in Europe with Recommendations for Conquering Cancer: A Comprehensive Analysis.

Improvements in cancer care require a new degree of collaboration beyond the purely medical sphere, extending deeply into the world of other stakeholders-preeminently patients but also the other stakeholders in the hardware and software of care. Cancer remains a global health challenge, necessitating collaborative efforts to understand, prevent, and treat this complex disease. To achieve this goal, a comprehensive analysis was conducted, aligning the prioritization of cancer research measures in 13 European countries with 13 key recommendations for conquering cancer in the region. The study utilized a survey involving both patients and citizens, alongside data from IQVIA, a global healthcare data provider, to assess the availability and access to single-biomarker tests in multiple European countries. The results revealed a focused approach toward understanding, preventing, and treating cancer, with each country emphasizing specific research measures tailored to its strengths and healthcare objectives. This analysis highlights the intricate relationship between research priorities, access to biomarker tests, and financial support. Timely access to tests and increased availability positively influence research areas such as cancer prevention, early detection, ageing, and data utilization. The alignment of these country-specific measures with 13 recommendations for conquering cancer in Europe underscores the importance of tailored strategies for understanding, preventing, and treating cancer.