Hoe duurzaam is onze oncologische zorg?

In the face of increasing patient demands and the urgent threat of climate change, this article critically examines the current challenges within oncology. The authors advocate for a sustainable healthcare system that balances patient care with environmental responsibilities. Highlighting the significant carbon footprint of oncology, driven by costly treatments and pharmaceuticals, the authors argue that the pursuit of aggressive, life-extending therapies often conflicts with goals of accessibility and sustainability. To mitigate these issues, the article proposes a four-tier roadmap for reducing the environmental impact of oncological care: (1) assessing societal impacts; (2) engaging patients in discussions on personal values; (3) incorporating sustainability in professional standards; and (4) implementing dosage reduction strategies. This approach aims to align oncology practices with sustainable healthcare objectives, ensuring responsible care for future generations.

Conflict of interest and financial support: ICMJE forms provided by the authors are available online along with the full text of this article.