8th Lung Cancer Europe Report
Financial impact of lung cancer: A European perspective
Published November 2023
Lung cancer can affect far more than health. The costs of care, travel and everyday living, combined with a loss of income, can create financial toxicity: financial strain caused by cancer and its treatment.
Lung Cancer Europe’s eighth report examined the financial impact of lung cancer across Europe. It looked at the costs people faced, changes to work and household income, the effect of financial pressure on wellbeing and care, and access to financial support.
Between 26 May and 5 July 2023, 1,161 people from 28 countries took part in the survey. This included 834 people diagnosed with lung cancer and 327 people caring for someone with the disease.
1,161 people
took part in the survey
28 countries
represented across Europe
66.7% people
experienced financial difficulties because of lung cancer
The survey ran from 26 May to 5 July 2023 and was available in 16 languages.
What the report looked at
The cost of lung cancer
Medical expenses, travel, medicines, tests, personal care items and other costs that may not be fully covered by healthcare systems or insurance.
Work and household income
Time away from work, reduced working hours, being unable to work, early retirement and the effect of caring responsibilities on employment.
Financial distress and wellbeing
Difficulty meeting household expenses, increased debt, reduced spending and the effect of financial pressure on mental health, family life and social activities.
Access to support
Conversations about money with healthcare teams, access to social workers, financial benefits and practical support for people affected by lung cancer.
“It causes increased worry and panic about an already uncertain future.”
Financial difficulties affected much more than household budgets. Among respondents experiencing financial difficulties, 88.4% said at least one area of their life had been negatively affected, most commonly mental health and lifestyle or social activities. Financial pressure could also affect access to diagnosis, treatment and supportive care.
What Lung Cancer Europe called for
Identify and address financial toxicity
Screen for financial vulnerability as part of lung cancer care. Healthcare teams should discuss financial concerns and connect people with information, resources and support that can help reduce the costs associated with treatment and care.
Protect income when people cannot work
Strengthen income replacement programmes for people unable to work because of lung cancer or caring responsibilities, with appropriate financial support provided through social welfare systems.
The financial impact of lung cancer
Financial impact of lung cancer: A European perspective showed how the economic consequences of lung cancer could affect household income, wellbeing and access to care.
Published in 2023, the report called for financial vulnerability to be recognised as part of lung cancer care and for stronger support for people whose income or ability to work is affected by the disease.
The Financial Impact of Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer Europe 8th Annual Report