Brussels, Feb 4 — Hospitals across the European Union discharged nearly five million patients diagnosed with cancer in 2023, according to the latest European health data, according to APP. The figures reveal both the scale of cancer care across the region and the major types of cancer affecting people today.
In total, about 4.9 million cancer patients were formally released from hospitals after receiving treatment or care. A hospital discharge can happen for many reasons, including the completion of treatment, transfer to another medical center, personal choice to leave, or, in some cases, death.
Colorectal cancer was the most common diagnosis among discharged patients, accounting for 554,112 cases, or 11.2 percent of all cancer discharges. Lung cancer followed closely, with around 506,372 cases, representing 10.3 percent. Breast cancer ranked third, with approximately 480,922 patients, making up 9.7 percent of the total.
The data also showed strong differences among EU countries. In 18 member states, colorectal cancer was the leading reason for cancer-related hospital discharges. Croatia recorded the highest discharge rate, with 360 colorectal cancer patients per 100,000 inhabitants. Latvia came next with 243 discharges, followed by Austria with 239.
On the other end of the scale, Malta reported the lowest rate, with just 31 colorectal cancer discharges per 100,000 people. Luxembourg and Ireland also showed low figures, with 56 and 58 discharges respectively.
Health experts say these numbers highlight the continuing burden of cancer on European healthcare systems. They also stress the importance of early detection, prevention, and access to effective treatment. Screening programs, healthy lifestyles, and medical innovation remain key tools in reducing the impact of cancer across the continent.
As Europe faces an aging population and rising healthcare demands, the latest figures serve as a reminder of the urgent need for stronger public health policies, better medical resources, and greater awareness to support patients and their families in the fight against cancer.
