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Cramp L, Burrows T, Surjan Y. Perceived barriers and facilitators affecting utilisation of radiation therapy services: Scoping review findings - Health professional influences. Radiother Oncol 2024; 199:110423. [PMID: 39002569 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2024.110423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
The underutilisation of radiation therapy (RT) is contributing to the significant global burden of cancer with studies identifying actual utilisation rates are significantly lower than evidence-based optimal utilisation rates. Attributing factors vary considerably, ranging from patient preference, referrer bias, to geographic variations. The aim of this scoping review is to map and synthesise the current literature reporting on barriers and facilitators influencing utilisation of RT globally. Four online databases; Medline, Embase, Scopus and CINAHL identified articles dated between 1993 and 2023. Study eligibility included reporting on RT services, specifically barriers and influences on utilisation of RT. Title and abstract screening, followed by full text review was performed as per PRISMA guidelines. Variables were extracted and categorised into patient, health professional (HP) and department level influences. In total, 340 studies were included in the scoping review. HP influences (included in this specific review) were reported in 225 (66 %) papers with the most prevalent HP influence being referral (n = 187; 83 %). Of the HP papers, 114 (51 %) identified knowledge and education as an influence on RT utilisation. Subsequently, role interpretation, describing the assumed role adopted by the General Practitioner as the patients advocate, educator, manager or carer was identified in 89 (40 %) studies. This scoping review demonstrates the range of factors impacting RT utilisation. The results suggest referrer knowledge and understanding gaps impact RT utilisation internationally. Future research and intervention into referrer RT education is required to limit the impact of such influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Cramp
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing - The University of Newcastle, University Drive Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia; Global Centre for Research and Training in Radiation Oncology - The University of Newcastle, University Drive Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Tracy Burrows
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing - The University of Newcastle, University Drive Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), The University of Newcastle, University Drive Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
| | - Yolanda Surjan
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing - The University of Newcastle, University Drive Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia; Global Centre for Research and Training in Radiation Oncology - The University of Newcastle, University Drive Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia.
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Cury FL, Viani GA, Gouveia AG, Moraes FY. In reply to Niu et al: Meta-analysis of 5-day preoperative radiotherapy for soft tissue sarcoma (5D-PREORTS). Radiother Oncol 2024; 195:110255. [PMID: 38522598 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2024.110255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio L Cury
- Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Gustavo A Viani
- Ribeirao Preto Medical School, Department of Medical Imagings, Hematology and Oncology of University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Andre G Gouveia
- Department of Oncology - Division of Radiation Oncology, Juravinski Cancer Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Fabio Y Moraes
- Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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James ND, Tannock I, N'Dow J, Feng F, Gillessen S, Ali SA, Trujillo B, Al-Lazikani B, Attard G, Bray F, Compérat E, Eeles R, Fatiregun O, Grist E, Halabi S, Haran Á, Herchenhorn D, Hofman MS, Jalloh M, Loeb S, MacNair A, Mahal B, Mendes L, Moghul M, Moore C, Morgans A, Morris M, Murphy D, Murthy V, Nguyen PL, Padhani A, Parker C, Rush H, Sculpher M, Soule H, Sydes MR, Tilki D, Tunariu N, Villanti P, Xie LP. The Lancet Commission on prostate cancer: planning for the surge in cases. Lancet 2024; 403:1683-1722. [PMID: 38583453 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)00651-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas D James
- Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Ian Tannock
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Felix Feng
- University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Silke Gillessen
- Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Syed Adnan Ali
- University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; The Christie Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | | | - Freddie Bray
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Eva Compérat
- Tenon Hospital, Sorbonne University, Paris; AKH Medical University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ros Eeles
- Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Áine Haran
- The Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, Bath, UK
| | | | | | | | - Stacy Loeb
- New York University, New York, NY, USA; Manhattan Veterans Affairs, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Masood Moghul
- Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | - Michael Morris
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Declan Murphy
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Howard Soule
- Prostate Cancer Foundation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | | | - Derya Tilki
- Martini-Klinik Prostate Cancer Center and Department of Urology, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Department of Urology, Koc University Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Nina Tunariu
- Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Li-Ping Xie
- First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Gouveia AG, Viani GA, Bratti VF, Marta GN, Hanna SA, Jacinto AA, Silva MS, Hamamura AC, Rosa AA, Castilho MS, Carson L, Hopman WM, Sullivan R, Booth CM, Aggarwal A, Hanna TP, Moraes FY. Challenges in building radiotherapy capacity: A longitudinal study evaluating eight years of the Brazilian radiotherapy expansion plan. J Cancer Policy 2024; 39:100459. [PMID: 38029960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpo.2023.100459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2012, the Brazilian government launched a radiotherapy (RT) expansion plan (PER-SUS) to install 100 linear accelerators. This study assesses the development of this program after eight years. METHODS Official reports from the Ministry of Health (MoH) were reviewed. RT centres projects status, timeframes, and cost data (all converted to US dollars) were extracted. The time analysis was divided into seven phases, and for cost evaluation, there were five stages. The initial predicted project time (IPPT) and costs (estimated by the MoH) for each phase were compared between the 18 operational RT centres (able to treat patients) and 30 non-operational RT centres using t-tests, ANOVA, and the Mann-Whitney U. A p-value < 0.05 indicates statistical significance. RESULTS A significant delay was observed when comparing the IPPT with the overall time to conclude each 48 RT centres project (p < 0.001), with considerable delays in the first five phases (p < 0.001 for all). Moreover, the median time to conclude the first 18 operational RT centres (77.4 months) was shorter compared with the 30 non-operational RT centres (94.0 months), p < 0.001. The total cost of 48 RT services was USD 82,84 millions (mi) with a significant difference in the per project median total cost between 18 operational RT centres, USD1,34 mi and 30 non-operational RT centres USD2,11 mi, p < 0.001. All phases had a higher cost when comparing 30 non-operational RT centres to 18 operational RT centres, p < 0.001. The median total cost for expanding existing RT centres was USD1,30 mi versus USD2,18 mi for new RT services, p < 0.0001. CONCLUSION After eight years, the PER-SUS programs showed a substantial delay in most projects and their phases, with increased costs over time. POLICY SUMMARY Our findings indicate a need to act to increase the success of this plan. This study may provide a benchmark for other developing countries trying to expand RT capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre G Gouveia
- Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, McMaster University, Juravinski Cancer Centre, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gustavo A Viani
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Ribeirão Preto Medical School, Department of medical imagings, hematology and oncology of University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Vanessa F Bratti
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Gustavo N Marta
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, Sírio Libanes Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Samir A Hanna
- Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, Sírio Libanes Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandre A Jacinto
- Radiation Oncology Department, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, SP, Brazil
| | - Mauricio S Silva
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Radiation Oncology Unit, Santa Maria Federal University, Santa Maria; and Clínica de Radioterapia de Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Ana C Hamamura
- Ribeirão Preto Medical School, Department of medical imagings, hematology and oncology of University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Arthur A Rosa
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Radiotherapy Department Oncoclinicas Salvador and Hospital Santa Izabel, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Marcus S Castilho
- Radiotherapy Department of the Felicio Rocho Hospital, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; President, Brazilian Radiotherapy Society - SBRT, Brazil
| | - Laura Carson
- Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Cancer Research Institute, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Wilma M Hopman
- Kingston General Health Research Institute; Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Richard Sullivan
- Institute of Cancer Policy, Global Oncology Group, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher M Booth
- Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Cancer Research Institute, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Department of Oncology, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Ajay Aggarwal
- Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Clinical Oncology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Timothy P Hanna
- Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Cancer Research Institute, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Department of Oncology, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Fabio Y Moraes
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Cancer Research Institute, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Department of Oncology, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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Amjad R, Moldovan N, Raziee H, Leung E, D’Souza D, Mendez LC. Hypofractionated Radiotherapy in Gynecologic Malignancies-A Peek into the Upcoming Evidence. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:362. [PMID: 38254851 PMCID: PMC10814353 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) has a fundamental role in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies, including cervical and uterine cancers. Hypofractionated RT has gained popularity in many cancer sites, boosted by technological advances in treatment delivery and image verification. Hypofractionated RT uptake was intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic and has the potential to improve universal access to radiotherapy worldwide, especially in low-resource settings. This review summarizes the rationale, the current challenges and investigation efforts, together with the recent developments associated with hypofractionated RT in gynecologic malignancies. A comprehensive search was undertaken using multiple databases and ongoing trial registries. In the definitive radiotherapy setting for cervical cancers, there are several ongoing clinical trials from Canada, Mexico, Iran, the Philippines and Thailand investigating the role of a moderate hypofractionated external beam RT regimen in the low-risk locally advanced population. Likewise, there are ongoing ultra and moderate hypofractionated RT trials in the uterine cancer setting. One Canadian prospective trial of stereotactic hypofractionated adjuvant RT for uterine cancer patients suggested a good tolerance to this treatment strategy in the acute setting, with a follow-up trial currently randomizing patients between conventional fractionation and the hypofractionated dose regimen delivered in the former trial. Although not yet ready for prime-time use, hypofractionated RT could be a potential solution to several challenges that limit access to and the utilization of radiotherapy for gynecologic cancer patients worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razan Amjad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh 25732, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Nataliya Moldovan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, BC Cancer, Kelowna, BC V1Y 5L3, Canada
| | - Hamid Raziee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, BC Cancer, Kelowna, BC V1Y 5L3, Canada
| | - Eric Leung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - David D’Souza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Lucas C. Mendez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
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Stuart SR, Poço JG, Rodrigues MVS, Abe RY, Carvalho HA. Can we predict who will benefit from the deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) technique for breast cancer irradiation? Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2023; 28:582-591. [PMID: 38179291 PMCID: PMC10764047 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.96867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The objective was to explore the clinical use of an "in-house" prototype developed to monitor respiratory motion to implement the deep inspiration breath hold technique (DIBH), compare dosimetric differences, and assess whether simple anatomic metrics measured on free breathing (FB) computed tomography scan (CT) can help in selecting patients that would benefit the most from the technique. Materials and methods A prospective study was conducted on patients with left breast cancer with an indication of adjuvant radiotherapy for breast only. Treatment simulation consisted of four series of CTs: the first during FB and three in DIBH to assess the reproducibility and stability of apnea. Contouring was based on the RTOG atlas, and planning was done in both FB and DIBH. Dosimetric and geometric parameters were assessed and compared between FB and DIBH. Results From June 2020 to December 2021, 30 patients with left breast cancer were recruited. Overall, the DIBH technique presented a mean dose reduction of 24% in the heart and 30% in the left anterior descendent coronary artery (LAD) (p < 0.05). The only geometric parameter correlated to a 30% dose reduction in the mean heart dose and LAD doses was the anterolateral distance from the heart to the chest wall of at least 1.5 cm measured on FB (p < 0.0001). Conclusion The prototype enabled the use of the DIBH technique with dose reductions in the heart and LAD. The benefit of the DIBH technique can be predicted on FB CT by measuring the distance between the heart and chest wall at the treatment isocenter.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joao Guilherme Poço
- Radiotherapy, Instituto de Radiologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Y. Abe
- Estatistica, Instituto de Matematica e Estatistica, Universidade de Sao Paulo Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Heloisa A. Carvalho
- Radiotherapy, Instituto de Radiologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Viani GA, Moraes FY, Marta GN, Kowalski LP, Gouveia AG. Real-world evidence for oncological outcomes after radiotherapy or surgery for T1a-T1b glottic squamous cell carcinoma: A population-based cohort study. Head Neck 2023; 45:2505-2514. [PMID: 37555376 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compare outcomes after surgery (S) or radiotherapy (RT) for T1a-T1b glottic squamous cell carcinoma (T1GSCC) in a population-based cohort study. METHODS Patients diagnosed with T1GSCC from 1999 to 2020 were identified from a public database. Clinical, demographic, and social data were extracted. Treatment and patient groups and subgroups were compared with log-rank test, Cox proportional test, and propensity-score matched (PSM). RESULTS Eight hundred and eighty-eight patients with T1GSCC were included in the study, with a median follow-up of 61 months. The 5- and 10-year overall survival (OS) S versus RT were 76% versus 71% and 60% versus 52% (p = 0.02), respectively. In the subgroup analysis, S was associated with better OS for T1b, male, and public service patients (p < 0.05). In the PSM cohort of S versus RT with 110 patients each, there was no significant difference in the OS, CSS, and LC. CONCLUSIONS T1GSCC has favorable outcomes with S or RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Arruda Viani
- Department of Medical Imagings, Hematology and Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Fabio Ynoe Moraes
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gustavo Nader Marta
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Sirio Libanês, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Paulo Kowalski
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Otorhinolaryngology, AC Camargo Cancer Center (ACCCC), Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, São Paulo State Cancer Institute (ICESP), School of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andre Guimaraes Gouveia
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Americas Centro de Oncologia Integrado, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Rosa AA, de Sousa CFPM, Pimentel LCF, Martins HL, Moraes FY, Marta GN, Castilho MS. Radiotherapy resources in Brazil (RT2030): a comprehensive analysis and projections for 2030. Lancet Oncol 2023; 24:903-912. [PMID: 37541272 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(23)00284-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The demand for radiotherapy in Brazil is unfulfilled, and the scarcity of data on the national network hampers the development of effective policies. We aimed to evaluate the current situation, estimate demands and requirements, and provide an action plan to ensure access to radiotherapy for those in need by 2030. METHODS The Brazilian Society for Radiation Oncology created a task force (RT2030) including physicians, medical physicists, policy makers, patient advocates, and suppliers, all of whom were major stakeholders involved in Brazilian radiotherapy care. The group was further divided into seven working groups to address themes associated with radiotherapy care in Brazil. From March 1, 2019, to Aug 3, 2020, there were monthly meetings between the group's leaders and the Central Committee and six general meetings. First, a comprehensive search of all different national databases was done to identify all radiotherapy centres. Questionnaires evaluating radiotherapy infrastructure and human resources and assing the availability, distribution, capacity, and workload of resources were created and sent to the radioprotection supervisor of each centre. Results were analysed nationally and across the country's regions and health-care systems. A pre-planned review of available databases was done to gather data on active radiation oncology centres and the distribution of radiotherapy machines (linear accelerators [LINACs]) across Brazil. We used national population and cancer incidence projections, recommended radiotherapy usage from the medical literature, and national working patterns to project radiotherapy demands in 2030. An action plan was established with suggestions to address the gaps and meet the demands. FINDINGS The database search yielded 279 centres with an active radiotherapy registry. After applying predefined exclusion criteria, 263 centres were identified that provided external beam radiotherapy machines with or without brachytherapy. All 263 operational centres answered the questionnaires sent on Dec 9, 2019, which were then returned between Jan 1 and June 30, 2020. There were 409 therapy machines, 646 radiation oncologists, 533 physicists, and 230 989 patients undergoing radiotherapy (150 628 [65·2%] in the public health-care system and 80 937 [35·0%] in private). The mean annual occupation rate was 566 patients per treatment machine (SD 250). The number of residents per treatment machine ranged from 258 333 to 1 800 000. Technology availability varied considerably among regions and systems. In 2030, 639 994 new cancer cases are expected, which will require 332 797 radiotherapy courses. Therefore, 530 LINACs, 1079 radiation oncologists, and 1060 medical physicists will be needed. INTERPRETATION The expected increase in cancer incidence in the coming years will probably increase the disparities in cancer care and the burden for Brazilian patients. We provide a roadmap of the current situation and the particularities of the Brazilian radiotherapy network, which can serve as a starting point for cancer policy planning to improve this scenario. FUNDING Accuray, BRAINLAB, Elekta, IBA, ONE medical solution, SUN NUCLEAR corporation, VARIAN, and ZIGMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Accioly Rosa
- Grupo Oncoclínicas, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil; Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Fabio Ynoe Moraes
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Gustavo Nader Marta
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Lourenção M, Arruda GV, Rocha LP, Galendi JSC, de Oliveira JC, Jacinto AA. Cost-effectiveness of hypofractionated versus conventional fractionated radiotherapy for the treatment of men with early glottic cancer: a study in the Brazilian public and private health system. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:592. [PMID: 37291564 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09397-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to evaluate whether hypofractionated radiotherapy (HYPOFRT) is a cost-effective strategy than conventional fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT) for early-stage glottic cancer (ESGC) in the Brazilian public and private health systems. METHODS Adopting the perspective of the Brazilian public and private health system as the payer, a Markov model with a lifetime horizon was built to delineate the health states for a cohort of 65-year-old men after with ESGC treated with either HYPOFRT or CFRT. Probabilities of controlled disease, local failure, distant metastasis, and death and utilities scores were extracted from randomized clinical trials. Costs were based on the public and private health system reimbursement values. RESULTS In the base case scenario, for both the public and private health systems, HYPOFRT dominated CFRT, being more effective and less costly, with a negative ICER of R$264.32 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) (public health system) and a negative ICER of R$2870.69/ QALY (private health system). The ICER was most sensitive to the probability of local failure, controlled disease, and salvage treatment costs. For the probabilistic sensitivity analysis, the cost-effectiveness acceptability curve indicates that there is a probability of 99.99% of HYPOFRT being cost-effective considering a willingness-to-pay threshold of R$2,000 ($905.39) per QALY (public sector) and willingness-to-pay threshold of R$16,000 ($7243.10) per QALY (private sector). The results were robust in deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS Considering a threshold of R$ 40,000 per QALY, HYPOFRT was cost-effective compared to CFRT for ESGC in the Brazilian public health system. The Net Monetary Benefit (NMB) is approximately 2,4 times (public health system) and 5,2 (private health system) higher for HYPOFRT than CFRT, which could open the opportunity of incorporating new technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Lourenção
- Department of Business Administration, School of Economics, Business Administration and Accounting at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo Viani Arruda
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Penna Rocha
- Department of Head and Neck, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia Simões Corrêa Galendi
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Institute of Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jorge Caldeira de Oliveira
- Department of Business Administration, School of Economics, Business Administration and Accounting at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Vieira CM, Diniz PHC, Dizon DS, Nogueira-Rodrigues A. Patient navigation (PN) support to timely access to radiotherapy in the Brazilian public health system. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:182. [PMID: 36820917 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07615-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patient navigation (PN) is a community-based service delivery intervention designed to promote access to timely diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other chronic diseases by eliminating barriers to integral care. Considering the complex difficulties in accessing treatment and the positive results of PN in high-income countries, our group decided to evaluate this tool to improve radiotherapy (RT) access in the public system in Brazil. PATIENTS AND METHODS This pilot study took place in a public school hospital, with a historical cohort as the control arm. The primary endpoint was the time from histologic diagnosis and RT initiation among cancer patients receiving RT with curative intent in a PN program. The secondary objectives were the following time frames: referral to the first consultation by the RT team; first consultation up to RT beginning; RT beginning to RT end; referral to the end of RT and identifying/describing obstacles to the treatment; and assessing patient satisfaction with PN program. RESULTS A total of 124 patients were included in the retrospective arm and 73 in the navigation arm. Most had the loco-regionally advanced disease from the esophagus, head/neck, and rectum. PN decreased the median time from the biopsy result to the beginning of RT from 108 to 74 days (p < 0.001). PN reduced the time between biopsy results and referral to RT (53 to 40.5 days, p = 0.011), between the referral and the first consultation in the RT (25 to 13 days, p < 0.001), and between the referral to the end of the RT (98 to 78 days, p < 0.003). CONCLUSIONS Proper identification of barriers, especially in a low-resource setting, is mandatory to guide PN programs in LMICs. In an oncological context of socioeconomic vulnerability, PN is a financially viable and efficient tool to optimize access to timely RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina M Vieira
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 30130100, Brazil.
| | - Paulo H C Diniz
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 30130100, Brazil
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11
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In Reply to Chang et al. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 115:248-249. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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12
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Sarria GR, Martinez DA, Li B, Castillo RD, Salgado A, Pinillos L, Felix A, Bobadilla I, Ferraris G, Castilho M, Carmona J, Leon B, Aviles L, Ricagni L, Isa N, Flores C, Giordano FA, Zubizarreta EH, Polo A, Sarria GJ. Leveling Up the Access to Radiation Therapy in Latin America: Economic Analysis of Investment, Equity, and Inclusion Opportunities Up to 2030. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022; 116:448-458. [PMID: 36549348 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Latin America faces a shortage in radiation therapy (RT) units and qualified personnel for timely and high-quality treatment of patients with cancer. Investing in equitable and inclusive access to RT over the next decade would prevent thousands of deaths. Measuring the investment gap and payoff is necessary for stakeholder discussions and capacity planning efforts. METHODS AND MATERIALS Data were collected from the International Atomic Energy Agency's Directory of Radiotherapy Centers, industry stakeholders, and individual surveys sent to national scientific societies. Nationwide data on available devices and personnel were compiled. The 10 most common cancers in 2020 with RT indication and their respective incidence rates were considered for gap calculations. The gross 2-year financial return on investment was calculated based on an average monthly salary across Latin America. A 10-year cost projection was calculated according to the estimated population dynamics for the period until 2030. RESULTS Eleven countries were included in the study, accounting for 557,213,447 people in 2020 and 561 RT facilities. Approximately 1,065,684 new cancer cases were diagnosed, and a mean density of 768,469 (standard deviation ±392,778) people per available unit was found. By projecting the currently available treatment fractions to determine those required in 2030, it was found that 62.3% and 130.8% increases in external beam RT and brachytherapy units are needed from the baseline, respectively. An overall regional investment of approximately United States (US) $349,650,480 in 2020 would have covered the existing demand. An investment of US $872,889,949 will be necessary by 2030, with the expectation of a 2-year posttreatment gross return on investment of more than US $2.1 billion from patients treated in 2030 only. CONCLUSIONS Investment in RT services is lagging in Latin America in terms of the population's needs. An accelerated outlay could save additional lives during the next decade, create a self-sustaining system, and reduce region-wide inequities in cancer care access. Cash flow analyses are warranted to tailor precise national-level intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo R Sarria
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; Rayos Contra Cancer, Inc, Nashville, Tennessee.
| | - David A Martinez
- Rayos Contra Cancer, Inc, Nashville, Tennessee; Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncosalud-Auna, Lima, Peru
| | - Benjamin Li
- Rayos Contra Cancer, Inc, Nashville, Tennessee; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | | | - Apolo Salgado
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Instituto Nacional del Cancer, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Luis Pinillos
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncosalud-Auna, Lima, Peru
| | - Armando Felix
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital de Oncologia Centro Medico Nacional Siglo XXI - IMSS, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ivan Bobadilla
- Radiotherapy Unit, Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo Cancer Treatment and Research Center - CTIC, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Gustavo Ferraris
- Radiotherapy Unit, Centro de Radioterapia Dean Funes, Cordoba, Argentina
| | - Marcus Castilho
- Radiotherapy Center, Hospital Felicio Rocho, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jorge Carmona
- Radiotherapy Unit, Oncoserv, Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic
| | - Barbara Leon
- Radiotherapy Technical Unit, Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Leandro Ricagni
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital de Clinicas, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Nicolas Isa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Clinica IRAM, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Claudio Flores
- Department of Epidemiology and Applied Research, Auna Ideas, Lima, Peru
| | - Frank A Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Alfredo Polo
- Division of Human Health, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gustavo J Sarria
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncosalud-Auna, Lima, Peru; Department of Radiotherapy, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplasicas, Lima, Peru
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13
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Kraus RD, Weil CR, Abdel-Wahab M. Benefits of Adopting Hypofractionated Radiotherapy as a Standard of Care in Low-and Middle-Income Countries. JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2200215. [PMID: 36525619 PMCID: PMC10166538 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D Kraus
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Christopher R Weil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - May Abdel-Wahab
- Division of Human Health, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
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14
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Moraes FY, Gouveia AG, Lima RP, Bratti VF, Hamamura AC, Viani GA. Radiotherapy activity in the COVID 19 pandemic: Brazil's operational national-level study. J Cancer Policy 2022; 36:100367. [PMID: 36216270 PMCID: PMC9540705 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpo.2022.100367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with cancer are at increased risk of not having timely diagnosis and access to cancer treatment. The present study evaluated the COVID-19 pandemic impact on radiotherapy activity in Brazil. METHODS A national-level study was performed to evaluate the RT utilization for prostate, breast, head & neck (HN), Gynecology (GYN), Gastrointestinal (GI), lung cancers, and bone/brain metastases. The data on the RT executed was extracted from the Brazilian Ministry of Health database. The NON-COVID period was considered the control group, and the comparison groups were COVID-2020 (without vaccine) and COVID-2021 (with vaccine). RESULTS We collected the data of 238,355 procedures executed on three periods. Significant difference in the RT utilization between NON-COVID and COVID-2020 were observed for prostate cancer, bone and brain metastases (-12.3 %, p = 0.02, +24 %, p = 0.02 and +14 %, p = 0.04, respectively). Comparing 2 equivalents months from NON-COVID-2019 (ref), COVID-2020, and COVID-2021, a significant increase was identified for bone and brain metastases (2020 +21 %, and 2021 +32 %), and (2020 +20 %, and 2021 +14 %). A stable drop occurred for prostate cancer (2020 -11 % and 2021 -10 %), and a variation was observed for breast (2020 +8 %, and 2021 -1 %) and lung cancer (2020 +10 %, and 2021 -3 %). For other cancers, non-significant changes were observed when comparing 2020 and 2021. CONCLUSION The RT activity was heterogeneously affected with a substantial increase for bone and brain metastases and a meaningful decline for prostate cancer. POLICY SUMMARY With a significant increase in the use of palliative radiotherapy for bone and brain metastases and a meaningful reduction in curative radiotherapy for prostate cancer, we hope these findings can help governments, RT services, medical communities, and other stakeholders develop strategies to mitigate the impact of the present and future pandemics. Finally, despite the changes imposed by the COVID pandemic, it is imperative to enhance screening, increase cancer diagnosis at an early stage, and improve access to all cancer treatments, including radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Y Moraes
- Department of Oncology - Division of Radiation Oncology, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Andre G Gouveia
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Radiation Oncology Department - Americas Centro de Oncologia Integrado, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Renato P Lima
- Radiation Oncology Department - Hospital Haroldo Juaçaba, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Vanessa F Bratti
- Queen's University School of Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences, Kingston, Canada
| | - Ana C Hamamura
- Ribeirão Preto Medical School, Department of medical imagings, hematology and oncology of University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Gustavo A Viani
- Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Ribeirão Preto Medical School, Department of medical imagings, hematology and oncology of University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
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15
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Hanna SA, Gouveia AG, Moraes FY, Rosa AA, Viani GA, Massuda A. Lessons from the Brazilian radiotherapy expansion plan: A project database study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2022; 14:100333. [PMID: 36777394 PMCID: PMC9903577 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2022.100333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background The Radiotherapy Expansion Plan for Brazil's Unified Health System (PER-SUS) was an innovative program designed by the Ministry of Health in 2012 to provide improvements to the challenging problem of access to radiotherapy in the country. This study sought to analyze the execution and implementation of installations proposed by PER-SUS, and their capacity to address the problems of radiotherapy access in Brazil. Methods From the first release (February 2015) until October 2021, all PER-SUS monthly progress reports were retrospectively analyzed. The beneficiary institutions, project location, project status, project type, dates of the progress on the stages, and reasons for cancellations or possible justifications for changing the status were collected. Brazilian geographic data, health care demands, and cancer incidences were correlated. Finally, we performed an Ishikawa diagram and 5W3H methodology, aiming to better understand the findings and to yield possible ways to improve the access to radiotherapy. Findings After ten years, the PER-SUS project delivered nearly 50% of the planned implementation of radiotherapy equipment. There was a 17% growth in the national number of linear accelerators (LINACS) with PER-SUS, against a 32% increase in cancer incidence in Brazil in the same period. The following points were identified: a high rate of beneficiary exclusions reflecting inappropriate selection or inadequate planning; delays in execution related to bureaucratic obstacles and underestimation of the requirements (logistics/people); early closing of the equipment factory as a result of lack of project prioritization by the Government. Interpretation Only about 50% of PER-SUS are being carried out. However, delays and exclusions of beneficiaries were observed. The dimension of the need for radiotherapy care in Brazil is greater than considered, and might not be fully attended by PER-SUS. Geographic, epidemiological, logistical, and economic variables could be reevaluated to allow better strategic planning and improvement proposals. PER-SUS could be optimized for the next decade, by involving all stakeholders' participation, alignment, and engagement. In the future, the States and regions with a higher LINAC shortage should be prioritized to improve RT access across the country. Considering the data and the initial project deadline, PER-SUS did not achieve the pre-established goals specified by the Brazilian Government. Funding This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Abdallah Hanna
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo, SP, Brazil,Corresponding author.
| | - Andre Guimaraes Gouveia
- Radiation Oncology Department, Américas Centro de Oncologia Integrado, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Fabio Ynoe Moraes
- Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Arthur Accioly Rosa
- Radiation Oncology Department, Oncoclinicas Salvador, Hospital Santa Izabel, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Arruda Viani
- Ribeirão Preto Medical School, Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology and Oncology of University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriano Massuda
- School of Business Administration, Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV EAESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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16
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System-level capacity of high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy for management of cervical cancer in an upper middle-income country: a case study from Brazil. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022; 114:545-553. [PMID: 35779808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.06.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ensuring optimal access to radiotherapy (RT) facilities is challenging for many countries. External beam RT and brachytherapy (BCT) are required to treat advanced cervical cancer. In this analysis, we evaluate the system-level capacity of brachytherapy in Brazil and its relationship with access to complete cervix cancer radiation treatment with both external beam radiotherapy and BCT. METHODOLOGY We used official government reports to compile data on BCT and Linear accelerator (LINAC) numbers, geographic distribution and coverage, cervical cancer annual incidence, and prevalence in Brazil. We also evaluated changes in national BCT capacity between 2001 and 2021. The 2020 relationship between cervical cancer cases for RT per BCT unit, LINAC per BCT unit, and the LINAC supply for each Brazilian state and region were evaluated. For comparison, the LINAC per BCT unit ratio in Brazil was compared with Europe using International Atomic Energy Agency data. RESULTS 85% (23/27) of Brazilian states have at least one brachytherapy unit; nationally, there are 117 cervical cancer cases for RT per BCT unit. Compared with the benchmark of 200 cervical cancer cases per BCT device per year, there are enough BCT units to fill capacity in Brazil nationally and regionally. The ratio of total cervix cancer cases per BCT unit decreased substantially over time from 142 in 2013 to 117 in 2021 (p<0.0001). Nationally, there are 252 LINAC units in the public system with a ratio of 1,985 new cancer cases/LINAC. Brazilian regions have a LINAC shortage ranging from 15 to 141 units. There were 2.55 LINACs per BCT unit in Brazil, compared with 3.25 in Europe (p=0.012). CONCLUSION Over 20 years, BCT capacity in Brazil has increased to meet the cervical cancer demand. However, the LINAC shortage has persisted over the decades, impacting the access to complete treatment and possibly the oncological outcomes. These data can help organize the patient treatment flow, avoid treatment delays, and improve survival.
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Taylor P, Castilho MS, Marta GN. Cost containment analysis and access to treatment associated with adopting hypofractionated radiation therapy from the Brazilian perspective. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2022; 13:100292. [PMID: 36777322 PMCID: PMC9903585 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2022.100292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Estimates show that breast cancer, the leading cause of cancer death in females worldwide, will continue to increase in incidence, highlighting the need for increased treatment capacity. While postoperative radiation therapy (RT) is commonly used to reduce recurrence and mortality, research has shown that moderately hypofractionated radiation therapy (HFRT) and 5-fraction HFRT are equally safe and effective and can reduce treatment costs. This study aimed to compare the cost of conventional RT (50Gy/25), moderately HFRT (40.05Gy/15), and 5-fraction HFRT (26Gy/5) for breast cancer patients in Brazil. Methods The cost of each RT regimen was calculated using the International Atomic Energy Agency's Radiotherapy Cost Estimator Tool. The potential annual savings were then estimated by applying the cost of each regime to the 2020 Brazilian cancer incidence rates. Findings The average costs per patient for 25 fractions, 15 fractions, and 5 fractions are $2,699.20, $1,711.98, and $929.81, respectively. The annual cost savings associated with treating 70% of patients with 15 fraction HFRT and 30% of patients with 5 fraction HFRT as compared to treating all patients with 25 fraction RT is $72,929,315.40. The estimated annual productivity of 1 LINAC machine for 25 fractions, 15 fractions, and 5 fractions is 338, 647, and 1,310 patients, respectively. Interpretation The cost analysis revealed decreased patients' costs and potential for increased EBRT access associated with HFRT in the Brazilian perspective. Funding None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince Taylor
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada,Department of Global Health, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Marcus Simões Castilho
- Division of Radiotherapy, Radiocare - Hospital Felicio Rocho, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Nader Marta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil,Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil,Corresponding author at. Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Amaral RCD, Andrade RAR, Couto GR, Herrera-Serna BY, Rezende-Silva E, Cardoso MCAC. Tendências de Mortalidade por Câncer Bucal no Brasil por Regiões e Principais Fatores de Risco. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE CANCEROLOGIA 2022. [DOI: 10.32635/2176-9745.rbc.2022v68n2.1877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introdução: O câncer bucal ainda e destacado como preocupante problema de saúde publica. Objetivo: Verificar a tendência de mortalidade por câncer bucal por Região brasileira e fatores de risco, avaliando o intervalo de tempo entre o diagnóstico e o tratamento. Método: Estudo com dados secundários do DATASUS (taxa de mortalidade e tempo para tratamento) e do Vigitel (consumo de álcool e cigarro); analises de series temporais e correlações entre taxas de mortalidade (2010-2019) e consumo de álcool e cigarro (2010-2019), para idade superior a 40 anos, e analise descritiva do tempo entre diagnóstico e tratamento. Resultados: Houve aumento da tendência de câncer bucal por Regiões e sexo, com predominância para o sexo masculino. A variação percentual anual (VPA) da ingestão de álcool e o uso de cigarro foram considerados estacionários na maioria das Regiões analisadas. Ao correlacionar as variáveis, verificou-se correlação estatisticamente significativa entre taxa de mortalidade (2010-2019) e percentual de consumo de álcool (p=0,011; r=0,957), percentual de consumo de cigarro (p=0,019; r=0,936) e taxa bruta de mortalidade em homens (2019) (p=0,005; r=0,97). Verificou-se que, na maioria dos casos (74%), o tempo para início do tratamento e de mais de 60 dias. Conclusão: Embora o consumo de álcool e o tabagismo sejam fatores de risco para o câncer bucal, o presente estudo concluiu que houve aumento da mortalidade por câncer e os fatores de risco analisados permaneceram estacionários. O início de tratamento foi maior do que 60 dias a partir do diagnóstico.
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Viani GA, Gouveia AG, Bratti VF, Pavoni JF, Sullivan R, Hopman WM, Booth CM, Aggarwal A, Hanna TP, Moraes FY. Prioritising locations for radiotherapy equipment in Brazil: a cross-sectional, population-based study and development of a LINAC shortage index. Lancet Oncol 2022; 23:531-539. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(22)00123-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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20
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Rodrigues AN, de Melo AC, Calabrich AFDC, Cronenberger E, Torres KL, Damian F, Cossetti R, de Azevedo CRAS, da Fonseca AJ, Nerón Y, Nunes J, Lopes A, Thomé F, Leal R, Borges G, da Silva AF, Rodrigues MF, Nunes Filho PRS, Zaffaroni F, Freitas RDS, Werutsky G, Maluf F. Characteristics of patients diagnosed with cervical cancer in Brazil: preliminary results of the prospective cohort EVITA study (EVA001/LACOG 0215). Int J Gynecol Cancer 2021; 32:141-146. [PMID: 34969827 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2021-002972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. Epidemiological and quality of life (QoL) data in patients with cervical cancer from low- and middle-income countries are scarce. We aimed to describe sociodemographic and clinicopathological characteristics and quality of life of patients with cervical cancer at diagnosis in Brazil. METHODS EVITA is a prospective cohort study of newly diagnosed patients with cervical cancer from May 2016 to December 2017, stages I-IVB, from 16 Brazilian sites representing the five Brazilian regions. At baseline, medical evaluation was performed and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-CX24/C30 questionnaires were administered. RESULTS A total of 631 patients were included. Mean±SD age was 49.3±13.9 years; skin color was non-white in 65.3%, and 68.0% had ≤8 years of formal education. In total, 85.1% of patients had a Pap smear. The main reasons reported by patients for not having a Pap smear were: lack of interest (46.9%), shame or embarrassment (19.7%), lack of knowledge (19.7%), and difficulty with access (9.1%). Most patients were diagnosed with locally advanced or metastatic disease (FIGO clinical stage II-IV in 81.8%- stage II in 35.2%, stage III in 36.1%, and stage IV in 10.5%). Patients with clinical stage III-IV had worse physical functioning and role functioning. CONCLUSIONS Cervical cancer in Brazil is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage. Most patients have low formal education and are unemployed. Lack of interest was identified as a main reason for not having a screening test, and limited access was reported as a reason by <10% of the patients. Awareness campaigns must be a governmental priority, specially focused on the needy population, along with wide access to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica Nogueira Rodrigues
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil .,Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.,EVA - Brazilian Gynecologic Oncology Group, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Andréia Cristina de Melo
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.,EVA - Brazilian Gynecologic Oncology Group, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Brazilian National Cancer Institute - INCA, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Aknar Freire de Carvalho Calabrich
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.,EVA - Brazilian Gynecologic Oncology Group, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Clínica Assistência Multidisciplinar em Oncologia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Cronenberger
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.,Clinical Research, Centro Regional Integrado de Oncologia, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Kátia Luz Torres
- Fundação Centro de Controle de Oncologia do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Damian
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.,Centro de Pesquisa em Oncologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Yeni Nerón
- Centro de Pesquisas Oncologicas, Florianopolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - João Nunes
- Hospital Erasto Gaertner, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - André Lopes
- Instituto Brasileiro de Controle do Cancer, Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Thomé
- Hospital Sao Vicente de Paulo, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Renato Leal
- Universidade Federal do Ceara Hospital Universitario Walter Cantidio, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Facundo Zaffaroni
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Gustavo Werutsky
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fernando Maluf
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.,EVA - Brazilian Gynecologic Oncology Group, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Hospital Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Faroni LD, Rosa AA, Aran V, Ramos RS, Ferreira CG. Access of Patients With Lung Cancer to High Technology Radiation Therapy in Brazil. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 7:726-733. [PMID: 34010027 PMCID: PMC8162964 DOI: 10.1200/go.20.00622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Lung cancer is a global health problem, with more than 220,000 new cases and 150,000 deaths per year in the United States. Likewise, in Brazil, lung cancer is the most lethal cancer with 30,200 new cases expected in 2020. Regarding treatment types, radiation therapy (RT) represents an important approach, since 60%-70% of the patients will receive this modality of treatment during the course of their disease. However, access to RT remains challenging because of the socioeconomic inequalities in the Brazilian population, where approximately 100,000 patients/year die without access to RT. This work provides an overview on the availability of high technology RT in Brazil. METHODS A retrospective study was performed using the Brazilian Radiotherapy Census, local public and private databases, and the current literature published in 2019. RESULTS The Brazilian radiotherapy network relies on approximately 363 linear accelerators and 20 cobalt machines that remain operational. Most of these machines are installed at public health facilities. Regarding high technology, intensity-modulated RT is available in 53.7% (n = 130) and volumetric modulated arc therapy in 28.5% (n = 69) of the institutions, although only 19.8% (n = 48) of those facilities are capable of performing image-guided RT using cone beam computed tomography. Considering only the public health care system, the scenario is more restricted, with 40.1% (n = 65) of the institutions offering intensity-modulated RT, 21% (n = 34) volumetric modulated arc therapy, and 14.8% (n = 24) using cone beam computed tomography. Because of these scare resources, only 16% of Radiation Departments offer stereotactic body RT. CONCLUSION Brazil still needs to improve and provide high and safer RT technologies to patients with lung cancer across all Brazilian regions to attend the population needs and obtain better patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Veronica Aran
- Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer (IECPN), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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22
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Almeida NR, Brenelli FP, Dos Santos CC, Torresan RZ, Shinzato JY, Cardoso-Filho C, Duarte GM, de Azevedo NS, Zeferino LC. Comparative study of surgical and oncological outcomes in oncoplastic versus non oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer treatment. JPRAS Open 2021; 29:184-194. [PMID: 34258368 PMCID: PMC8259297 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpra.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Oncoplastic surgery has been increasingly used in breast cancer treatment and allows the performance of breast-conserving surgery in cases of larger tumors with unfavorable location or tumor-breast disproportion. Purpose: To compare surgical and oncological outcomes of patients undergoing oncoplastic and nononcoplastic breast-conserving surgery. Methods: Retrospective cohort study with convenience sampling of 866 patients who consecutively underwent breast-conserving surgery from 2011 to 2015. Results: The mean follow-up was 50.4 months. Nononcoplastic breast conservation surgery was performed on 768 (88.7%) patients and oncoplastic surgery on 98 (11.3%) patients. Patients in the oncoplastic group were younger (p<0.0001) and most were premenopausal (p<0.0001). Comorbidities such as diabetes (p=0.003) and hypertension (p=0.0001) were less frequent in this population. Invasive carcinoma >2 cm (p<0.0001), multifocality (p=0.004), ductal in situ carcinoma (p=0.0007), clinically positive axilla (p=0.004), and greater weight of surgical specimens (p<0.0001) were more frequent in the oncoplastic group. A second surgery for margin re-excision was more frequently performed in the nononcoplastic group (p=0.027). There was more scar dehiscence in the oncoplastic group (p<0.001), but there was no difference in early major complications (p=0.854), conversion to mastectomy (p=0.92), or local recurrence (p=0.889). Conclusion: Although used for the treatment of larger and multifocal tumors, surgical re-excisions were performed less often in the oncoplastic group, and there was no increase in conversion to mastectomy or local recurrence. In spite of the higher rate of overall complications in the oncoplastic group, major complications were similar in both groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie R Almeida
- Division of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, Woman's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti (CAISM), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Breast Surgery Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabrício P Brenelli
- Division of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, Woman's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti (CAISM), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Breast Surgery Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cesar C Dos Santos
- Associated Professor Division of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, Woman's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti (CAISM), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renato Z Torresan
- Division of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, Woman's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti (CAISM), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Júlia Y Shinzato
- Assistant Professor Division of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, Woman's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti (CAISM), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cassio Cardoso-Filho
- Assistant Professor Division of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, Woman's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti (CAISM), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giuliano M Duarte
- Division of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, Woman's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti (CAISM), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nicoli S de Azevedo
- Division of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, Woman's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti (CAISM), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Carlos Zeferino
- Full Professor of Gynecology Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo, Brazil
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Hess CB, Parkes J, Janssens GO, Lin C, Wong K, Zaghloul MS, Marconi DG, Boterberg T, Esiashvili N. Global pediatric radiation therapy in resource-limited settings. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68 Suppl 2:e28299. [PMID: 32743983 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This report provides a summary of the global burden of childhood cancer morbidity and mortality, which disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries as well as low- and middle-income communities within high-income countries. We review past successes and current challenges to improving clinical pediatric radiotherapy, education, and research in these regions. The Pediatric Radiation Oncology Society Taskforce in Low- and Middle-Income Countries recently outlined specific aims: (a) to increase access and quality of radiotherapy for children and adolescents afflicted with cancer; (b) to enumerate, engage, and educate a global community of providers of childhood and adolescent radiotherapy; and (c) to create evidence establishing the outcomes of setting-specific treatment standards of care when first-world standards are not achievable. This report will improve awareness of these disparities and promote attempts to correct them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clayton B Hess
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeannette Parkes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Geert O Janssens
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chi Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, University of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Kenneth Wong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mohamed S Zaghloul
- Children's Cancer Hospital, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Daniel G Marconi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tom Boterberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Natia Esiashvili
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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24
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Barrios C, Freitas-Junior R, Martins S, Bines J, Del Pilar Estevez-Diz M, Caleffi M. Challenge of Incorporating New Drugs for Breast Cancer in Brazil: A Proposed Framework for Improving Access to Innovative Therapies. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 7:474-485. [PMID: 33822641 PMCID: PMC8081546 DOI: 10.1200/go.20.00566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this review is to address the barriers limiting access to treatment of advanced metastatic breast cancer (mBC) in Brazil, specifically for patients in the public health care system, arguably those with the least access to innovation. MATERIALS AND METHODS A selected panel of Brazilian experts in BC were provided with a series of relevant questions to address in a multiday conference. During the conference, responses were discussed and edited by the entire group through numerous drafts and rounds of discussion until a consensus was achieved. RESULTS The authors propose specific and realistic recommendations for implementing access to new drugs in cancer care in Brazil. Moreover, in creating these recommendations and framework, the authors strive to address the most important barriers and impediments for technology incorporation. A feasible and specific multidisciplinary process is proposed, which is based on the collective participation of all involved stakeholders. CONCLUSION Given the current benefits and likely future developments, there is a great need to expand treatments for mBC not only in Brazil but also in most other countries in the world where access issues remain an unresolved demand. Adapting the current framework is essential for accomplishing this goal. The recommendations in this review can serve as a framework for adoption of new technologies in countries with limited resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Barrios
- Grupo Oncoclínicas, Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Ruffo Freitas-Junior
- CORA, Advanced Center for Diagnosis of Breast Diseases, Federal University of Goias, Goiânia, Brazil
- Araujo Jorge Hospital of Associação de Combate ao Câncer em Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Sandro Martins
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Brasília/EBSERH, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Jose Bines
- Clínica São Vicente, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Maria Del Pilar Estevez-Diz
- Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo/Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Onco Star Rede D'Or, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maira Caleffi
- Hospital Moinhos de Vento, Femama, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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25
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Primo WQSP, Speck NMDG, Roteli-Martins CM, Fernandes CE, Silva Filho ALD. Call to Eliminate Cervical Cancer in the Next Decade with a Focus on Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRÍCIA 2021; 43:1-2. [PMID: 33513628 PMCID: PMC10183847 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1722939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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26
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Yan M, Gouveia AG, Cury FL, Moideen N, Bratti VF, Patrocinio H, Berlin A, Mendez LC, Moraes FY. Practical considerations for prostate hypofractionation in the developing world. Nat Rev Urol 2021; 18:669-685. [PMID: 34389825 PMCID: PMC8361822 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00498-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
External beam radiotherapy is an effective curative treatment option for localized prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men worldwide. However, conventionally fractionated courses of curative external beam radiotherapy are usually 8-9 weeks long, resulting in a substantial burden to patients and the health-care system. This problem is exacerbated in low-income and middle-income countries where health-care resources might be scarce and patient funds limited. Trials have shown a clinical equipoise between hypofractionated schedules of radiotherapy and conventionally fractionated treatments, with the advantage of drastically shortening treatment durations with the use of hypofractionation. The hypofractionated schedules are supported by modern consensus guidelines for implementation in clinical practice. Furthermore, several economic evaluations have shown improved cost effectiveness of hypofractionated therapy compared with conventional schedules. However, these techniques demand complex infrastructure and advanced personnel training. Thus, a number of practical considerations must be borne in mind when implementing hypofractionation in low-income and middle-income countries, but the potential gain in the treatment of this patient population is substantial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Yan
- grid.410356.50000 0004 1936 8331Division of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Andre G. Gouveia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Americas Centro de Oncologia Integrado, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fabio L. Cury
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649Department of Radiation Oncology, Cedars Cancer Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Nikitha Moideen
- grid.410356.50000 0004 1936 8331Division of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Vanessa F. Bratti
- grid.410356.50000 0004 1936 8331Queen’s University School of Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences, Kingston, Canada
| | - Horacio Patrocinio
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649Department of Medical Physics, Cedars Cancer Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Alejandro Berlin
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lucas C. Mendez
- grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Department of Radiation Oncology, London Regional Cancer Program, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Fabio Y. Moraes
- grid.410356.50000 0004 1936 8331Division of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
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The challenges of implementing low-dose computed tomography for lung cancer screening in low- and middle-income countries. NATURE CANCER 2020; 1:1140-1152. [PMID: 35121933 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-020-00142-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Lung cancer accounts for an alarming human and economic burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Recent landmark trials from high-income countries (HICs) by demonstrating that low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening effectively reduces lung cancer mortality have engendered enthusiasm for this approach. Here we examine the effectiveness and affordability of LDCT screening from the viewpoint of LMICs. We consider resource-restricted perspectives and discuss implementation challenges and strategies to enhance the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of LDCT screening in LMICs.
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Lim JH, Choi KH, Kim SY, Park CS, Kim SM, Park KC. Patient-Derived, Drug-Resistant Colon Cancer Cells Evade Chemotherapeutic Drug Effects via the Induction of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition-Mediated Angiogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207469. [PMID: 33050525 PMCID: PMC7589077 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells can exhibit resistance to different anticancer drugs by acquiring enhanced anti-apoptotic potential, improved DNA injury resistance, diminished enzymatic inactivation, and enhanced permeability, allowing for cell survival. However, the genetic mechanisms for these effects are unknown. Therefore, in this study, we obtained drug-sensitive HT-29 cells (commercially) and drug-resistant cancer cells (derived from biochemically and histologically confirmed colon cancer patients) and performed microarray analysis to identify genetic differences. Cellular proliferation and other properties were determined after treatment with oxaliplatin, lenvatinib, or their combination. In vivo, tumor volume and other properties were examined using a mouse xenograft model. The oxaliplatin and lenvatinib cotreatment group showed more significant cell cycle arrest than the control group and groups treated with either agent alone. Oxaliplatin and lenvatinib cotreatment induced the most significant tumor shrinkage in the xenograft model. Drug-resistant and metastatic colon cancer cells evaded the anticancer drug effects via angiogenesis. These findings present a breakthrough strategy for treating drug-resistant cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Hong Lim
- Gangnam Severance Hospital, Department of Surgery Yonsei, University College of Medicine 211 Eonjuro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 135-720, Korea; (J.H.L.); (S.Y.K.); (C.S.P.)
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1, Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-752, Korea
| | - Kyung Hwa Choi
- Department of Urology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam 463-712, Korea;
- Renal Division, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Soo Young Kim
- Gangnam Severance Hospital, Department of Surgery Yonsei, University College of Medicine 211 Eonjuro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 135-720, Korea; (J.H.L.); (S.Y.K.); (C.S.P.)
- Thyroid Cancer Center, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 120-752, Korea
| | - Cheong Soo Park
- Gangnam Severance Hospital, Department of Surgery Yonsei, University College of Medicine 211 Eonjuro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 135-720, Korea; (J.H.L.); (S.Y.K.); (C.S.P.)
- Thyroid Cancer Center, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 120-752, Korea
| | - Seok-Mo Kim
- Gangnam Severance Hospital, Department of Surgery Yonsei, University College of Medicine 211 Eonjuro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 135-720, Korea; (J.H.L.); (S.Y.K.); (C.S.P.)
- Thyroid Cancer Center, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 120-752, Korea
- Correspondence: (S.-M.K.); (K.C.P.)
| | - Ki Cheong Park
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1, Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-752, Korea
- Correspondence: (S.-M.K.); (K.C.P.)
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Alleyne-Mike K, Sylvester P, Henderson-Suite V, Mohoyodeen T. Radiotherapy in the Caribbean: a spotlight on the human resource and equipment challenges among CARICOM nations. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2020; 18:49. [PMID: 32680524 PMCID: PMC7367401 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-020-00489-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited data on access to radiotherapy services for CARICOM nations. METHODS This was a descriptive mixed-methods observational study which used data collected via survey from staff working in Radiation Oncology in 14 CARICOM countries. Benchmark recommendations from the International Atomic Energy Agency were compared to existing numbers. The Directory of Radiotherapy Centers, World Bank, and Global Cancer Observatory databases were all accessed to provide information on radiotherapy machines in the region, population statistics, and cancer incidence data respectively. Both population and cancer incidence-based analyses were undertaken to facilitate an exhaustive review. RESULTS Radiotherapy machines were present in only 50% of the countries. Brachytherapy services were performed in only six countries (42.9%). There were a total of 15 external beam machines, 22 radiation oncologists, 22 medical physicists, and 60 radiation therapists across all nations. Utilizing patient-based data, the requirement for machines, radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapists was 40, 66, 44, and 106, respectively. Only four (28.6%) countries had sufficient radiation oncologists. Five (35.7%) countries had enough medical physicists and radiation therapists. Utilizing population-based data, the necessary number of machines, radiation oncologists, and medical physicists was 105, 186, and 96 respectively. Only one county (7.1%) had an adequate number of radiation oncologists. The number of medical physicists was sufficient in just three countries (21.4%). There were no International Atomic Energy Agency population guidelines for assessing radiation therapists. A lower economic index was associated with a larger patient/population to machine ratio. Consequentially, Haiti had the most significant challenge with staffing and equipment requirements, when compared to all other countries, regardless of the evaluative criteria. Depending on the mode of assessment, Haiti's individual needs accounted for 37.5% (patient-based) to 59.0% (population-based) of required machines, 40.1% (patient-based) to 59.7% (population-based) of needed radiation oncologists, 38.6% (patient-based) to 58.3% (population-based) of medical physicists, and 42.5% (patient-based) of radiation therapists. CONCLUSION There are severe deficiencies in radiotherapy services among CARICOM nations. Regardless of the method of comparative analysis, the current allocation of equipment and staffing scarcely meets 50% of regional requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie Alleyne-Mike
- National Radiotherapy Centre, 112 Western Main Road, St. James, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
| | - Pearse Sylvester
- National Radiotherapy Centre, 112 Western Main Road, St. James, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Vladimir Henderson-Suite
- National Radiotherapy Centre, 112 Western Main Road, St. James, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Thana Mohoyodeen
- Port of Spain General Hospital, 61 Charlotte Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
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Mendez LC, Raziee H, Davidson M, Velker V, D'Souza D, Barnes E, Leung E. Should we embrace hypofractionated radiotherapy for cervical cancer? A technical note on management during the COVID-19 pandemic. Radiother Oncol 2020; 148:270-273. [PMID: 32474128 PMCID: PMC7255703 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2020.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is a deadly disease and the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to further impact its lethality. Hypofractionated radiotherapy could mitigate this impact, however robust data in cervical cancer setting still is lacking. Information provided here could help institutions in reducing radiotherapy fractions for cervical cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas C Mendez
- Division of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, Canada; Department of Oncology, Western University, London, Canada.
| | - Hamid Raziee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, BC Cancer, Surrey, Canada
| | | | - Vikram Velker
- Division of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, Canada; Department of Oncology, Western University, London, Canada
| | - David D'Souza
- Division of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, Canada; Department of Oncology, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Barnes
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Canada; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Eric Leung
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Canada; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
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Mendez LC, Ravi A, Martell K, Raziee H, Alayed Y, Wronski M, Paudel M, Barnes E, Taggar A, Wong CS, Leung E. Comparison of CTV HR and organs at risk contours between TRUS and MR images in IB cervical cancers: a proof of concept study. Radiat Oncol 2020; 15:73. [PMID: 32252792 PMCID: PMC7137277 DOI: 10.1186/s13014-020-01516-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To compare CTVHR and OAR dimensions and inter-rater agreement between magnetic resonance (MR) and trans-rectal ultrasound (TRUS) images in IB cervical cancer patients. Methods IB cervical cancer patients treated with (chemo)radiotherapy plus MR-guided brachytherapy (BT) were prospectively enrolled in this study. Radiation oncologists contoured CTVHR and OARs in pre-BT MR images (MRI) and intra-operative TRUS images. These contours were subsequently compared in regard to volume and dimension. Contour inter-rater agreement analysis was also investigated using kappa index (KI). Stata 15.0 was used for statistical analysis and a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results TRUS CTVHR volumes were statistically smaller than the respective MRI contoured volumes. TRUS CTVHR thickness was found to be consistently smaller than MRI contours in all patients. No statistical difference was seen in width and height between the two different imaging modalities. MRI contours had a median KI of 0.66 (range: 0.56–0.77) while TRUS-based contours had a median KI of 0.64 (range: 0.47–0.77). Bladder and rectum had very satisfactory KI in both imaging modalities. Vaginal contours had moderate agreement in MR (0.52) and in TRUS images (0.58). Conclusion TRUS images allow good visualization of CTVHR and OARs in IB cervical cancer patients. Inter-rater contour variability was comparable between TRUS and MR images. TRUS is a promising modality on its own for image-guided BT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas C Mendez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Radiation Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Ananth Ravi
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kevin Martell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hamid Raziee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yasir Alayed
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Matt Wronski
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Moti Paudel
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Barnes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amandeep Taggar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - C S Wong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eric Leung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Merie R, Gabriel G, Shafiq J, Vinod S, Barton M, Delaney GP. Radiotherapy underutilisation and its impact on local control and survival in New South Wales, Australia. Radiother Oncol 2019; 141:41-47. [PMID: 31606225 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2019.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE This study aimed to identify the actual radiotherapy utilisation rate (A-RUR) in New South Wales (NSW) Australia for 2009-2011 and compare that to the published evidence-based optimal radiotherapy utilisation rate (O-RUR) and to previously reported A-RUR in NSW in 2004-2006. It also aimed to estimate the effect of underutilisation on 5-year local control (LC) and overall survival (OS) and identify factors that predict for underutilisation. MATERIALS AND METHODS All cases of registered cancer diagnosed in NSW between 2009 and 2011 were identified from the NSW Central Cancer Registry and linked with data from all radiotherapy departments. The A-RUR was calculated and compared with O-RURs for all cancers. The difference for each indication was used to estimate 5-year OS and LC shortfall. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors that correlated with reduced radiotherapy utilisation. RESULTS 110,645 cancer cases were identified. 25% received radiotherapy within one year of diagnosis compared to an estimated optimal rate of 45%. This has marginally improved from previously reported rate of 22% in NSW in 2004-2006. We estimated that 5-year OS and LC were compromised in 1162 and 5062 patients respectively. Factors that predicted for underuse of radiotherapy were older age, male gender, lower socioeconomic status, increasing distance to nearest radiotherapy centre and localised disease. CONCLUSION The identified deficit in radiotherapy use has a significant negative impact on patient outcomes. Strategies to overcome such shortfalls need to be developed to improve radiotherapy use and patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Merie
- Liverpool Cancer Therapy Centre, New South Wales, Australia; South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Gabriel Gabriel
- Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, New South Wales, Australia; South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jesmin Shafiq
- Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, New South Wales, Australia; South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shalini Vinod
- Liverpool Cancer Therapy Centre, New South Wales, Australia; South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Barton
- Liverpool Cancer Therapy Centre, New South Wales, Australia; Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, New South Wales, Australia; South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoff P Delaney
- Liverpool Cancer Therapy Centre, New South Wales, Australia; Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, New South Wales, Australia; South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Australia
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Lives and Economic Loss in Brazil due to Lack of Radiotherapy Access in Cervical Cancer: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2019; 31:e143-e148. [PMID: 31160129 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2019.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Among all malignancies, the use of radiotherapy incurs the highest survival benefit within cervical cancers. Radiotherapy, however, remains underutilised for cervical cancers within the Brazilian public health system (BPHS). The objective of this study was to estimate the potential health and monetary benefits for universal access to radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for untreated cervical cancer patients in the BPHS. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using 2016 data on Brazilian cervical cancer incidence and availability of radiotherapy/CRT in the BPHS, the number of cancer deaths due to radiotherapy/CRT underutilisation was estimated. The incremental effectiveness was calculated by life-year gain. The indirect costs from mortality-related productivity loss (MRPL) were estimated based on life expectancy, wage and labour force participation rate. MRPL was compared with direct medical costs after being adjusted to 2016 US dollars. This study was conducted from the payer's perspective; both costs and effectiveness were discounted at a rate of 3%. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated to determine the cost-effectiveness of radiotherapy for cervical cancer in Brazil. One-way sensitivity analyses were carried out to assess the robustness of the model. RESULTS The total number of life-years lost due to lack of universal access to radiotherapy and CRT per year were 27 199 and 31 627, respectively. The annual cost to match the radiotherapy gap was $10.5 million, with an additional cost of $3 million to close the CRT gap. The mean years of potential life lost per death was 20.5. The cost per life saved was $7942 for radiotherapy alone (ICER $388/life-year) and $8774 for CRT (ICER $429/life-year). MRPL due to shortage of radiotherapy and CRT were $59 million and $69 million, respectively. CONCLUSION Providing universal access to radiotherapy/CRT for cervical cancer patients in the BPHS is highly cost-effective and should be prioritised as an impactful public health initiative.
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Moraes FY, Mendez LC, Rosa AA, Marta GN. Expanding Access to Radiation Therapy: An Update on Brazil's Current Challenges and Opportunities. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2018; 102:463-464. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Paulino E, Nogueira-Rodrigues A, Goss PE, Faroni L, Guitmann G, Strasser-Weippl K, Bukowski A. Endometrial Cancer in Brazil: Preparing for the Rising Incidence. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRÍCIA 2018; 40:577-579. [PMID: 30352454 PMCID: PMC10418351 DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1673644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Paulino
- Global Cancer Institute, Boston, Masachussets, United States
- Americas Centro de Oncologia Integrado, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Angélica Nogueira-Rodrigues
- Global Cancer Institute, Boston, Masachussets, United States
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Paul E. Goss
- Global Cancer Institute, Boston, Masachussets, United States
| | - Lilian Faroni
- Americas Centro de Oncologia Integrado, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Guitmann
- Americas Centro de Oncologia Integrado, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Imaging and cancer of the cervix in low- and middle-income countries. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2018; 25:115-121. [PMID: 30094311 PMCID: PMC6072969 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervix cancer is the fourth most common cancer globally but the second most cancer in women in resource-limited countries. It has remained a clinically-staged neoplasm as per the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics staging classification. As the imaging machines are becoming more available worldwide, the resource-stratified guidelines recommended the inclusion of imaging whenever possible to guide treatment planning. In this report, the utility of imaging in low- and middle-income countries for diagnosis and treatment of cancer of the cervix will be reviewed. Imaging should be included to guide diagnosis and treatment planning. Role of ultrasound and computerized tomography in LMIC was reviewed. Cross-sectional imaging is important in planning for radiotherapy.
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