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Global Disparities in Paediatric Brain Tumour Surgery
Javeria Javed1, Fareeha Nisar2, Muhammad Shahzad Shamim2
1Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Summary
Global disparities in paediatric brain tumour surgery significantly impact child survival. Strengthening healthcare systems, including surgical expertise and diagnostic services, is crucial for improving outcomes in low-resource settings.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Paediatric Oncology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Paediatric brain tumours are a leading cause of cancer mortality in children globally.
- Outcomes vary significantly by region, influenced by health system capacity rather than solely tumour biology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review global disparities in paediatric brain tumour surgery.
- To examine how diagnostic, surgical, and perioperative care limitations affect outcomes in low- and middle-income countries.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on paediatric brain tumour surgery in diverse global settings.
- Analysis of factors contributing to outcome variations, focusing on resource-limited environments.
Main Results:
- Delays in diagnosis and limited neuroimaging access lead to advanced disease presentation in resource-limited settings.
- Constraints in paediatric anaesthesia, intensive care, and nursing impact surgical outcomes.
- Inconsistent follow-up and limited access to adjuvant therapies compromise treatment completion and survivorship.
Conclusions:
- Addressing disparities requires sustained health system strengthening, not short-term fixes.
- Priorities include workforce development, regional surgical capacity, diagnostic services, and cancer registries.
- Improving care continuity and access is essential to enhance survival rates for children with brain tumours.