Abstract:
Neuro-oncology, which focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of brain tumors, is facing a growing burden of diseases globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). LMICs like Pakistan face unique challenges in providing adequate care to those affected. The lack of resources and access to healthcare services in LMICs can lead to inadequate care and poor outcomes for patients. This has led me to define Global Neuro-Oncology (GNO) where Public Health issues meet neuro-oncology and global oncology. The Pakistan Brain Tumor Epidemiology Study (PBTES) is a comprehensive study that we undertook to determine the incidence and types of brain tumors in Pakistan. The study identified several gaps in the management of brain tumors in the country, including issues of accessibility, affordability, limited access to diagnostic tools, inadequate treatment options, and poor awareness among healthcare professionals and the general public. These findings highlight the urgent need for increased resources, research, and education about brain and spinal cord tumors in LMICs like Pakistan. By addressing these gaps, we can work towards improving the care and outcomes for patients with neuro-oncological diseases in LMICs and around the world. This growing burden of neuro-oncological diseases has significant implications for public health, particularly in LMICs. The need for increased resources, research, and education about brain tumors among healthcare professionals and the general public is becoming increasingly urgent. Additionally, the development and implementation of new treatment strategies that are more cost-effective and accessible for patients in LMICs is essential. This will be achieved through, development of guidelines, training of clinician-scientists, as well as further research on molecular epidemiology, radiogenomics, and the integration of virtual biopsy and liquid biopsy methods. Pakistan Society of Neuro-Oncology and the Pakistan Academy of Neurological Surgery were formed with these goals and issues related to GNO in mind. In conclusion, the increasing burden of neuro-oncological diseases globally, particularly in LMICs, is a significant public health issue. The lack of resources and access to healthcare services in these countries can lead to inadequate care and poor outcomes for patients. Increased funding, education, and research are needed to address this issue and improve the care and outcomes for patients with neuro-oncological diseases in LMICs and around the world.
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Journal: Abstract Book on 9th Annual Neuroscience Conference (ANC-23) August 12-13, 2023 , Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2023