Challenges, hurdles and possible approaches to improve cancer care in developing countries – A short breakdown of the status quo and future perspective

Abstract

It was estimated that in 2012, 57% of the incidence and 65% of cancer deaths have occurred in developing countries, and in the future, the incidence of cancer-related mortality is even expected to rise significantly in these countries. Despite this alarming data, there are still significant disparities in access to cancer care and cancer control between developing nations and higher income countries. There are several hurdles for cancer patients in developing countries which impair adequate treatment, including very little access to programs of cancer prevention and screening measures, early diagnosis and adequate surgical and medical tumor treatment. In this review article, we provide a short assessment and breakdown of the main barriers for proper cancer treatment admission and provide a perspective on potential approached and solutions to enhance cancer research and care in developing countries.