In the European landscape of clinical trials for new drugs, Spain stands out as a leader. 45% of the 2,500 trials conducted in the region last year were carried out in national research centers. This strength comes after years of collaborative work between health authorities, research hospitals, patients, and pharmaceutical companies. After the United States, Spain is the second country in this field and participates in one out of every three trials launched in Europe. To maintain this position, it is important to stay alert, continue investing in R&D, and bridge the gap between public research and its translation into clinical phases.
The leadership is largely due to the strong healthcare structure in Spain, which is cohesive and present throughout the territory, as indicated by Javier Padilla, Secretary of State for Health. This cohesion allows for the accumulation of data, essential for identifying patterns and trends in patient response to treatment, as well as providing critical evidence on the safety and efficacy of the tests or interventions under study. Padilla emphasized the need for Spain to continue advancing in clinical research and to combine leadership in R&D with leadership in drug production, access, and sustainability.
Juan Cruz Cigudosa, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Universities, highlighted the value of clinical trials, emphasizing the importance of transferring science produced in Spain into tangible solutions for society. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Spain emerged as a leader in clinical trials in Europe, demonstrating the value of science and collaborative innovation. Cigudosa identified two key challenges: transferring science into tangible solutions and turning clinical research into innovations produced in the country. Collaboration between key sectors is essential to drive an industry that could be at the forefront of an entire sector.
Juan Yermo, Director General of Farmaindustria, emphasized Spain’s global leadership in clinical trials. This position has been achieved through years of collaborative work with public administration and drug agencies, both nationally and in Europe, to streamline processes allowing for the development of various projects. Currently, there are between 4,000 and 5,000 trials ongoing with around 170,000 participants. Healthcare professionals and patients who have trusted in these projects have been crucial in achieving this milestone. Yermo highlighted the key role played by the pharmaceutical industry, which funds 90% of the trials.
María Victoria Mateos, a hematologist at the University Hospital of Salamanca and President of the Spanish Society of Hematology and Hemotherapy, emphasized the importance of hard work, effort, and collaboration in the process of bringing a drug from discovery to the patient’s home. Raquel Yotti, Commissioner of the Strategic Project for Vanguard Health, pointed out the need to expand clinical trials beyond major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Decentralized and networked clinical trials represent a bold step towards democratizing access to therapeutic innovation. The use of digital tools like remote monitoring and telemedicine can facilitate participation in trials from different parts of Spain.
Networked clinical trials involve collaboration and coordination between multiple healthcare centers, instead of being limited to a single site. These trials are conducted simultaneously in various interconnected locations to share data, resources, and participants. Mateos stressed the importance of networked trials, despite the challenges of training professionals in satellite centers. The use of digital tools and the coordination between different centers are essential in advancing clinical research and ensuring broader access to innovative therapies.
