Bridging the Gap: Addressing Global Disparities in Women's Cancer Diagnoses

A significant disparity in early cancer diagnosis between low/middle-income and high-income countries is placing women at risk, according to a global study published in The Lancet. The research underscores the urgent need to address cancer care inequities worldwide.

The study, led by the Cancer Survival Group at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, scrutinized the diagnosis and treatment adherence of more than 275,000 women with breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers from 39 countries. Findings reveal that only under a fifth of women from financially disadvantaged nations are diagnosed early, compared to two in five in wealthier countries.

Professor Claudia Allemani, the study's lead author, stresses the importance of comprehensive cancer registries and stable financial support. While early-stage cancer surgeries are common, adherence to international treatment guidelines varies, with older patients often receiving inconsistent care. The research is poised to inform global cancer policies, including WHO initiatives.