Abstract
The Increasing Role of Immunotherapy in the Management of Solid Cancers and its impact on Caribbean health services resources and provision.
Highlights
In the Caribbean, cancer is the second leading cause of death, affecting one in every five persons.[1,2] Of even greater concern is the mortality rate for breast and prostate cancer in Caribbean countries which is amongst the highest in the world
Traditional approaches to the management of solid cancer have included a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, all of which have assisted in combating the disease
The recent strides that have been made in the management of solid cancers through immunotherapy have been due to a better understanding of its mechanism of action.[18]
Summary
In the Caribbean, cancer is the second leading cause of death, affecting one in every five persons.[1,2] Of even greater concern is the mortality rate for breast and prostate cancer in Caribbean countries which is amongst the highest in the world. Noted deficiencies include the need for more qualified oncologists operating within the Caribbean region as evidenced by a large number of patients with cancer seeking access to the public health care systems.[3] Another major challenge is the unavailability of cancer medication, the cost of which is prohibitive, often placing it outside the reach of the average citizen. There is a reliance on what many perceive to be an under-funded and failing public health care system to provide the necessary treatment and support Those with the financial resources seek treatment abroad or in one of the larger islands.[2] in the current environment, a diagnosis of cancer presents a major challenge for patients. The case for immunotherapy is strong; the decision whether it is a worthwhile investment for the Caribbean will depend upon budgets and priorities
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