Essential Elements in Improving Oncology in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) and Examples for Their Implementation in Nigeria

Abstract

In this chapter, I will summarize the major elements contributing to poor cancer disease outcomes in low- and middle-income countries and suggestions on how to address them. Many measures proposed herein involve social work, public education, and only in later stages health-care workforce. Taking the current COVID-19 pandemic as a starting point, launching public health education and vaccination programs together with raising public awareness for lifestyle-driven diseases may prove a turning point in cancer prevention in many low- and middle-income countries. Collaboration with institutions in high-income countries is also advocated. This will assist in supporting upgrade of facilities, training, logistics support, and data acquisition and management as well as funding of essential cancer services.

“Current”, “heated rods” & “hot vapour”: Why patients refuse radiotherapy as a treatment modality for cancer in Northern Sri Lanka

“…Sadly, having access to these technologies close to home is unlikely to be realized in the near future in low-resource settings like Sri Lanka aggravated by the current economic crisis. Until such time, taking steps to streamline referrals, strengthen follow-up, and offer transport and short-stay lodging located close to cancer care centers may support patients continuing with cancer treatment 17 .…”