Representatives from Nordic cancer helplines convened in Iceland to share experiences, discuss common challenges, and explore new opportunities for service development.
Overcoming shared challenges together
Each organization presented its services, followed by discussions on both operational challenges and opportunities to enhance quality and expand outreach. The Nordic countries face many of the same challanges in cancer care, making this gathering a valuable platform for exchanging knowledge and best practices.
One of the key challenges identified was ensuring that support services reach all those in need. Several organizations showcased inspiring initiatives aimed at extending their reach, including targeted efforts to connect with underserved communities. This topic will be revisited in the next gathering, with a focus on effective strategies for broader accessibility.
Icelandic research on quality of life
During the meeting, the Icelandic Cancer Registry presented its ongoing study, ‘Health-Related Quality of Life – A Comparative Population-Based Study’. This research examines the quality of life among cancer patients compared to a control group from the general population. With data collection continuing until June 2025, the findings are expected to provide useful insights into how cancer impacts daily life.
A historic visit with Vigdís Finnbogadóttir
The meeting ended with a visit to the museum dedicated to Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, the world’s first female president. As a cancer survivor herself, Finnbogadóttir has been a strong advocate for cancer awareness in Iceland, making the visit particularly meaningful.
Looking ahead: next meeting in Copenhagen
The Nordic cooperation in cancer care will continue through digital meetings, followed by an in-person gathering in Copenhagen in 2027.