Major Global Disparities in Access to Radiotherapy and Theranostics Highlighted by Lancet Oncology Commission
A newly published Lancet Oncology Commission report underscores the significant global disparities in access to life-saving radiotherapy and theranostics for cancer treatment. The report, led by Lead Commissioners, Professor Andrew Scott from the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and Austin Health and Dr May Abdel-Wahab from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), reveals that while radiotherapy is essential for 50-70% of cancer patients, access remains heavily skewed towards high-income countries (HICs). Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to face challenges, with an alarmingly low number of radiotherapy machines and trained professionals available to meet patient needs.
The Commission also highlights the emerging field of theranostics, which integrates diagnostic imaging with targeted therapeutic interventions, showing great promise in precision cancer care. However, the availability of these treatments is hindered by supply chain issues, lack of training and workforce, and insufficient infrastructure, particularly in LMICs.
To address these gaps, the report calls for coordinated global efforts, including the expansion of advanced radiotherapy techniques like hypofractionation, strategic investments in health infrastructure, improved availability of theranostic radiopharmaceuticals, and increased support from international development banks.
At a glance:
- Only 10% of cancer patients in low-income countries have access to radiotherapy.
- Adoption of advanced radiotherapy techniques could extend treatment to 2.2 million additional cancer patients globally.
- Theranostics, despite its potential, is unevenly available, with significant gaps in access in LMICs and in some HICs.
- Better coordination, collaboration, and planning can achieve improved and equitable access for patients to radiotherapy and theranostics, leading to improved cancer care outcomes globally.
The report emphasises that closing the access gap will not only improve cancer outcomes but also yield substantial economic benefits for LMICs, potentially saving billions in lost productivity.
For more information on the Radiotherapy and theranostics: a Lancet Oncology Commission report, visit The Lancet Oncology.
About the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute
The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) is a leader in the development of innovative cancer treatments.
The institute’s state-of-the-art laboratories are just steps from patient care, fostering seamless collaboration between researchers and clinicians. This proximity enables the rapid translation of scientific breakthroughs into new clinical therapies, while insights from patient experiences are swiftly reintegrated into our research efforts.
ONJCRI focuses on cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, brain, breast, lung, skin and rare cancers, but continually seeks to expand its research scope. By aligning the laboratory work with clinical observations, the institute ensures research remains patient-centred.