Do national cancer control plans address care and research for children, adolescents, and young adults? A review of status, priorities, and recommendations across 41 European countries

Abstract

Paediatric cancers, although rare, are the leading cause of disease-related mortality in European children above one year. A key pillar of the European Health Union, Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan (EBCP) puts a spotlight on childhood cancer. National Cancer Control Plans (NCCPs) have a key role but did not address childhood cancers sufficiently previously. This study considered the NCCPs of 41 European countries in relation to children and adolescents and young adults (AYAs). Twenty two NCCPs informed a structured narrative analysis. Four NCCPs were categorised as having comprehensive paediatric oncology content. Findings emphasise access to care through centralisation combined with local delivery of low-risk interventions and the role of multidisciplinary teams. Survivorship, AYA care, registries, and voluntary associations were addressed to varying degrees. Supportive care was among the weakest areas in the 22 NCCPs. Recommendations were presented to strengthen paediatric oncology in NCCPs and enrich the EBCP vision towards improved survival and reduced inequalities across Europe.