Global pediatric radiation therapy in resource-limited settings

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Pediatric Oncology
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• Childhood cancer presents a significant global health burden, with higher morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Disparities in access to quality pediatric cancer care, particularly radiotherapy, persist even within high-income countries.
• Past efforts in improving pediatric radiotherapy in LMICs have faced challenges in clinical practice, education, and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the global burden of childhood cancer and highlight disparities in care.
• To review successes and challenges in pediatric radiotherapy, education, and research in LMICs.
• To outline the specific aims of the Pediatric Radiation Oncology Society Taskforce in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing data on childhood cancer burden.
• Analysis of current challenges and past successes in pediatric radiotherapy in LMICs.
• Presentation of the strategic aims developed by the Pediatric Radiation Oncology Society Taskforce.

Main Results:

• Childhood cancer disproportionately affects LMICs and underserved communities.
• Significant challenges remain in providing adequate pediatric radiotherapy, education, and research in these regions.
• The Pediatric Radiation Oncology Society Taskforce has established clear objectives to improve pediatric radiotherapy access and quality.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need to raise awareness of global disparities in childhood cancer care.
• Targeted interventions are required to enhance radiotherapy access, quality, and education for children with cancer in LMICs.
• Developing setting-specific treatment standards is essential when first-world standards are not feasible.