Mirek Topolánek reveals pancreatic cancer has spread to lungs

Former Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolánek has revealed that his battle with pancreatic cancer has progressed, with the disease now spreading to his lungs. In a recent interview, the 70-year-old stated that while he previously believed his condition was stable this spring, he is now facing lung metastases.

Topolánek is currently undergoing chemotherapy and is awaiting the start of a deferred American research program, which he views as a source of hope. Despite the severity of his diagnosis, he remains physically active, participating in gym sessions, tennis, and physiotherapy. He noted that his long-term care at the Central Military Hospital in Prague helped facilitate an earlier diagnosis.

Using his personal experience, Topolánek founded the 'Luck is Not Enough' (Štěstí nestačí) foundation. The initiative aims to improve early detection systems and support research, specifically targeting pancreatic cancer, where he noted that only about ten percent of patients survive due to the narrow window for effective surgical intervention.