Finnish YLE uses IHE data in new documentary

“Why is Finland falling behind in cancer care compared to its Nordic neighbors?” is the theme of a new investigative documentary by Finland’s public broadcaster YLE.

The documentary begins by noting that Finland – along with Sweden – was a world leader in cancer survival rates just 15–20 years ago. But since then, Finland has fallen behind. The documentary explores a range of possible explanations, including access to new medicines and, in particular, immunotherapy.

Based on data from IHE’s latest Cancer Comparator Report, it shows that Finland had the third-lowest use of immunotherapy in the entire EU. Other factors mentioned include poorer access to primary care and imaging diagnostics, both of which lead to later detection of cancer, making it harder to cure. Thomas Hofmarcher contributes as one of the interviewed experts in the documentary.

Documentary YLE, The price of my life (Elämäni hinta):
https://areena.yle.fi/1-76547004 (April 13, 2026)

Articles YLE:
https://yle.fi/a/74-20209868 (April 13, 07:01)
https://yle.fi/a/74-20209869 (April 13, 10:30)

For more information, please contact Thomas Hofmarcher