The Landmark Series: Seminal Works in Global Cancer Surgery

Cancer surgery is an integral component of the cancer care delivery pathway. Surgical intervention is required across the entire spectrum of cancer care, ranging from screening to treatment and palliation. More than 80% of patients with solid tumors will require surgical intervention at least once, with some needing it multiple times. However, access to safe, timely, and affordable cancer surgery remains beyond the reach of many, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In the future, LMICs will account for a rising proportion of the global cancer burden, with a proportionate rise in demand for cancer surgical services. Persistent workforce shortages, fragmented training pathways, limited investment in global cancer surgery research, and financial toxicity further exacerbate these disparities. Addressing these gaps requires comprehensive, context-specific, geographically relatable, and resource-stratified cancer care strategies. This review aims to highlight some of the key literature for improving access to cancer surgery globally, with an emphasis on LMICs.