Global Cancer Imaging Access: Addressing Barriers and Harnessing Innovations

The global cancer burden is increasing, with disproportionate morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Imaging is essential for cancer diagnosis, staging, and follow-up, yet access in these settings remains poor. Barriers include insufficient availability of appropriate equipment, shortages of trained personnel, limited interventional services, and socioeconomic constraints. This review examines these barriers and challenges in global access to imaging for common cancers such as breast, lung, prostate, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Potential solutions are discussed, including innovations such as fit-for-purpose imaging hardware, artificial intelligence-assisted image interpretation, and governmental, policy, and international initiatives aimed at improving cancer imaging access in low- and middle-income countries. Keywords: Multimodal Applications, CT, Ultrasound, MRI, Artificial Intelligence, PET/CT © RSNA, 2025.