Disparities in Breast Cancer Diagnostics: How Radiologists Can Level the Inequalities

Abstract

Access to medical imaging is pivotal in healthcare, playing a crucial role in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diseases. However, disparities persist in this scenario, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities, racial and ethnic minorities, and individuals facing linguistic or cultural barriers. This paper critically assesses methods to mitigate these disparities, with a focus on breast cancer screening. We underscore scientific mobility as a vital tool for radiologists to advocate for healthcare policy changes: it not only enhances diversity and cultural competence within the radiology community but also fosters international cooperation and knowledge exchange among healthcare institutions. Efforts to ensure cultural competency among radiologists are discussed, including ongoing cultural education, sensitivity training, and workforce diversification. These initiatives are key to improving patient communication and reducing healthcare disparities. This paper also highlights the crucial role of policy changes and legislation in promoting equal access to essential screening services like mammography. We explore the challenges and potential of teleradiology in improving access to medical imaging in remote and underserved areas. In the era of artificial intelligence, this paper emphasizes the necessity of validating its models across a spectrum of populations to prevent bias and achieve equitable healthcare outcomes. Finally, the importance of international collaboration is illustrated, showcasing its role in sharing insights and strategies to overcome global access barriers in medical imaging. Overall, this paper offers a comprehensive overview of the challenges related to disparities in medical imaging access and proposes actionable strategies to address these challenges, aiming for equitable healthcare delivery.

Patients’ Perceptions and Attitudes to the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Breast Cancer Diagnosis: A Narrative Review

“…However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the impact of AI in healthcare, particularly in fields such as breast cancer screening, is not limited to affluent nations, as the implementation of AI holds significant promise in addressing healthcare disparities, especially in low-income countries [51][52][53]. As low-income countries often face challenges in establishing and maintaining comprehensive screening programs due to limited resources, infrastructure, and healthcare accessibility [54], AI has the potential to be a transformative tool, offering more accessible and cost-effective solutions for breast cancer screening [53]. It could, in fact, help provide easy access to better healthcare, such as screening mammography for vulnerable and at-risk women through algorithm-assisted, telemedicine-based platforms [55].…”

The importance of the medical imaging technology park: access, equity, and balance

“…It is essential to consider the need for accurate and rapid diagnoses, especially in cases of cancer and other serious illnesses, including those that are rare or ultra-rare. Planning and programming care based on population-based parameters and loco-regional distribution (travel time and distance) can guarantee quick, equitable access to technologies that enable therapeutic success or mitigation of sequelae ( 1 ) . Therefore, medical imaging has become a fundamental element of health care, playing an unquestionable role in all stages of health care provision ( 2 ) , from prevention to monitoring and treatment follow-up.…”