Treatment of cervical cancer: overcoming challenges in access to brachytherapy. Issue 4 (3rd April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lichter, Katie; Anakwenze Akinfenwa, Chidinma; MacDuffie, Emily; Bhatia, Rohini; Small, Christina; Croke, Jennifer; Small, William; Chino, Junzo; Petereit, Daniel; Grover, Surbhi
• Is Part Of: Expert review of anticancer therapy. Volume 22:Issue 4(2022)
• Page Start: 353
• Page End: 359
• Publication Date: 2022-04-03
• Subjects: Brachytherapy -- Cervix Cancer -- global health -- global oncology -- health disparities -- gynecologic cancer -- medication education -- radiotherapy -- radiation oncology; Cancer -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.99406
• DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2022.2047936
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-7140

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Brachytherapy is an essential component of the cervical cancer treatment paradigm as it contributes to improved clinical outcomes and overall survival. Yet brachytherapy remains globally underutilized, with disparities in access at both national and international levels. Areas covered: The review explores current brachytherapy utilization practices and efforts being undertaken to address barriers to implementation in low-, middle-, and high-income countries, and how these efforts are projected to impact future brachytherapy access. The content presented is based on a review of published literature and the authors' collective clinical experiences. Expert opinion: There exists a tremendous opportunity to expand access to essential brachytherapy services for women with cervical cancer. Many national and international brachytherapy efforts exist; yet it remains imperative that such focused efforts continue to grow and provide further access to this critical treatment modality for women in need worldwide.