[How sustainable is our oncological care?]

In the face of increasing patient demands and the urgent threat of climate change, this article critically examines the current challenges within oncology. The authorsadvocate 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.