Last year, the Netherlands saw an increase in cancer diagnoses, with 130,000 cases reported, a rise of 3,000 compared to 2023, according to the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL). The rise was anticipated due to population growth and aging.
Breast cancer is most common among women, while prostate cancer is prevalent among men. Prostate cancer diagnoses have increased significantly, with over 15,000 new cases in 2024, nearly matching breast cancer rates.
When diagnosed, prostate cancer more frequently shows metastasis compared to breast cancer, with 3,000 cases of metastasis in prostate cancer versus 1,000 in breast cancer in 2023. Harm van Melick, a urologist at St. Antonius Hospital, stated, “There is still much to be gained in early detection and accessible care.” Prostate cancer patient Leo van der Linde, diagnosed in 2019, shared his experience of late detection and ongoing treatment.
Prostate cancer mortality has risen over past decades, surpassing breast cancer mortality in 2023. The silent progression of prostate cancer raises questions about implementing a screening program akin to that for breast cancer.
Van Melick noted that while no worldwide prostate cancer screening exists, discussions are underway in Europe. Advances in diagnostics, such as MRI scans, enable better differentiation between mild and aggressive cancers, potentially reducing the need for invasive biopsies.
Van Melick emphasized exploring the feasibility of a screening program given these improvements and increased diagnoses. Van der Linde supports the idea of a screening program, recounting his painful biopsy experience and finding solace in a support group for cancer patients in Purmerend.
Source: NOS