Global Access to Radiotherapy for Lung Cancer-Global Access Webinar Slides

Global Access Webinar Slides
Pdf Summary
This document discusses the global access to radiotherapy (RT) for lung cancer. The presenters emphasize the increasing global incidence of cancer and the role of radiotherapy in its management. They highlight the need to expand RT capacity and provide sustainable funding for it. The barriers to RT in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are identified, including lack of access, issues with quality control and safety, lack of sustainable investment, and shortage of trained personnel. The presenters emphasize the importance of increasing access to RT equipment and trained healthcare professionals and promoting innovation to improve the economic efficiency of RT delivery.<br /><br />The document also discusses the use of RT for lung cancer in LMICs. It mentions the use of three-dimensional conformal RT (3D-CRT) and intensity-modulated RT (IMRT) for better treatment planning and target volume delineation. The presenters highlight the need to prioritize early-stage to locally advanced lung cancer treatment with RT, as well as palliative care.<br /><br />Additionally, the document emphasizes the importance of addressing the global workforce shortage in thoracic cancer care. It suggests strategies like task shifting, skills mix, and vertical and horizontal substitution to optimize the healthcare workforce. The presenters also discuss the need for global curricula in medical education to align it with the needs of patients and healthcare systems.<br /><br />Furthermore, the document mentions various organizations and initiatives working towards improving access to RT globally, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its coordinated research programs, the Program of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT), the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), and the Global Task Force on Radiotherapy for Cancer Control. It also highlights the role of research, innovation, and implementation in increasing access to RT, including the potential applications of artificial intelligence and tele-radiotherapy.<br /><br />In summary, this document emphasizes the urgent need to expand global access to RT for lung cancer. It calls for sustainable funding, increased RT capacity, investment in human resources, and the promotion of research and innovation to achieve this goal. The document also highlights the importance of addressing the workforce shortage, aligning medical education with global priorities, and collaborating with international organizations and initiatives.
Keywords
global access
radiotherapy
lung cancer
sustainable funding
low- and middle-income countries
RT equipment
healthcare professionals
3D-CRT
IMRT
palliative care