Assessing Radiology and Radiation Therapy Needs for Cancer Care in Low-and-Middle-Income Countries: Insight From a Global Survey of Departmental and Institutional Leaders

Abstract

BackgroundThe global cancer burden and mortality rates are increasing, with significant disparities in access to care in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aims to identify radiology and radiotherapy needs in LMICs from the perspective of departmental and institutional leaders. MethodsA survey was developed and conducted by the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) Global Needs Assessment Committee (GNAC) and the AAPM International Council. The survey, organized into five sections (Introduction, Infrastructure Needs, Education Needs, Research Needs, and General Information), was open to respondents from March 1 to August 16, 2022. FindingsA total of 175 responses were received from six global regions: Africa (31.4%), Americas (17.7%), Eastern Mediterranean (14.3%), Europe (9.1%), South-East Asia (23.4%) and Western Pacific (4.0%). The greatest reported need was for new or updated equipment, particularly PET/CT imaging technology. There was also a high demand for clinical and equipment training. Approximately 25% of institutions reported a lack of radiology-based cancer screening programs due to high healthcare costs and a shortage of specialized equipment. Many institutions that expressed interest in research face funding and grant challenges. InterpretationThe findings highlight critical areas where organizations can support LMICs in enhancing radiology and radiotherapy services to mitigate the growing cancer burden.