Cancer Treatment in Spain

Cancer is the leading cause of death in Spain, with males accounting for about two-thirds of all cancer-related deaths. This is primarily due to the prevalence of lung cancer in the male population as nearly one-third of male Spaniards are regular smokers.

Cancer drugs are governed by different regulations to normal prescription drugs and patients pay less than 10% towards of the cost (with a limit of €3 per prescription – but often the drugs are provided completely free of charge).

70% of Spanish hospital beds are public with half of the remaining beds provided by not-for-profit institutions that offer patient care (included in the public health system). Cancer treatment is typically delivered in public hospitals, although there are some private cancer institutions in the larger cities.

The Marbella Hospital has a specialist cancer unit and you will also find several private hospitals offering treatment for cancer sufferers on the Costa del Sol. There are also a number of cancer support groups on the Costa del Sol

There are only four oncology centres in Spain, but all large hospitals have sizable medical oncology and radiotherapy departments. There are approximately 1,000 board-certified medical oncologists currently practicing in Spain (1:44,000 inhabitants) and they are responsible for more than 90% of the cancer treatment in the country. Radiation oncology is also a recognized specialty, with approximately 500 board-certified doctors presently working in Spain.

Public breast cancer screening campaigns have been implemented in all Spanish regions targeting women between the ages of 50 and 65.  Screening for colorectal and prostate cancers is not widespread in Spain, although some pilot programs are currently being developed and implemented.

It is important that you get private health cover in Spain to insure that you are covered for every eventuality.