The clinical and economic advantages of contemporary radiotherapy in Croatia

Abstract:

Radiotherapy is the most efficient non-surgical treatment for cancer; it is used in 60% of patients and contributes to a cure in almost 40% of cases. The establishment of the system and the use of modern radiotherapy is a solution that can promote the transition of cancer from a deadly to a chronic illness. There are big differences between the existing and optimal use of radiotherapy in Croatia. In Croatia, most radiation therapy is performed by three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy while in Europe this therapy is replaced by modular intensity radiotherapy – IMRT. The main reason for the failure to implement IMRT routinely in Croatia is the lack of equipment and staff.

Key words:
cancer; IMRT; incidence; mortality; radiotherapy; savings; survival