Moscow Sets a Digital Standard for Cancer Care
Russia’s capital is using AI, telemedicine, and digital diagnostics to speed up cancer detection and treatment—with measurable success.
Moscow is showing strong results in cancer treatment thanks to a sweeping digital transformation of its healthcare system. Since 2019, the city has introduced a centralized model of oncology care that consolidates all stages—from diagnosis to therapy and follow-up—under one roof.
The results are striking. The rate of early cancer detection in Moscow has grown from 62.3% in 2019 to 67.7% in 2024, while 60% of patients now live more than five years after diagnosis. Mortality within the first year has fallen from 17% to 11.5%.
From glass slides to digital scans
A key driver of progress is the city’s digitization of pathology labs, which have replaced traditional glass slides and microscopes with high-resolution digital imaging. This shift enables remote consultations, faster analysis, and more precise diagnoses. The number of molecular and genetic tests—vital for personalized treatment—has nearly tripled.
Telemedicine is another cornerstone: Moscow doctors have conducted more than 143,000 online consultations, while digital monitoring tools now track patients’ conditions during chemotherapy. Prescriptions are renewed remotely, and “patient journey” algorithms guide individuals through each step of their care.
Moscow’s model illustrates how data-driven medicine can transform cancer treatment—reducing delays, improving outcomes, and offering a scalable blueprint for other cities around the world.
