Challenges in organizing effective oncology service: inter-European variability in the example of head and neck cancers

The increasing worldwide burden of cancer makes it imperative that every country develop a comprehensive cancer control programme. In the past, cancer control in Central and Eastern Europe was inadequate, particularly when compared to many wealthier Western European countries. We analyse interregional differences in Europe to the approach to comprehensive cancer care, with a focus on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma using the case of Poland as a representative example. Due to national plans major improvements have been achieved in the field of prevention and in radiotherapy delivery having a measurable and positive impact on treatment outcomes. In head and neck cancers a notable move towards multidisciplinary approach has been made, combining surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy accompanied by rehabilitation and social support. In Poland and several other Eastern and Central European countries a shortage of physicians in the field of oncology was noted. The main conclusion is that the special plans are needed in Central and Eastern Europe or those existing must be extended for another decade to fulfil the EU requirement of providing all European citizens with equal access to quality cancer care.