The action plan outlines 16 government measures aimed at addressing the expected rise in cancer incidence over the coming years and decades, while maintaining the quality and effectiveness of cancer services and ensuring accessibility.

The role of the Cancer Council is to oversee the progress and outcomes of the national cancer plan and to serve as an advisory body to the Minister of Health. The council is also tasked with proposing a division of responsibilities among institutions providing cancer-related services at all levels of the healthcare system, based on an analysis of the current organization of such services. Furthermore, it will identify opportunities for collaboration and improvement, monitor developments within the field, and propose changes as needed.

Friðbjörn R. Sigurðsson, representative of Akureyri Hospital (SAk), serves on the Cancer Council.

The members of the Cancer Council are as follows:

• Halla Þorvaldsdóttir, Chair, appointed by the Minister without nomination

• Agnes Smáradóttir, nominated by Landspítali – The National University Hospital of Iceland

• Friðbjörn R. Sigurðsson, nominated by Akureyri Hospital

• Helgi Hafsteinn Helgason, nominated by the South Iceland Healthcare Institution

• María Heimisdóttir, nominated by the Directorate of Health

• Sólveig Ása Tryggvadóttir, nominated by Kraftur – the Icelandic Cancer Support Organization

Read more here: Cancer Council established