Cancer among children, adolescents, and young adults presents unique challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where healthcare resources and access are often limited. Despite significant advancements in high-income nations, stark disparities persist in LMICs, where young patients frequently face delayed diagnosis, lack of access to treatment, and limited supportive care.
This Research Topic aims to explore innovative solutions and strategies to overcome these barriers, with the ultimate goal of improving cancer outcomes for these populations in these regions.
We welcome submissions that address the multifaceted challenges faced by children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer in LMICs, including but not limited to:
• Epidemiological Insights: Analyses of cancer incidence, prevalence, and outcomes across these age groups in diverse LMIC settings.
• Healthcare Access and Infrastructure: Strategies for improving early diagnosis, treatment access, and healthcare delivery systems to effectively manage cancer in young populations.
• Cultural, Social, and Economic Factors: Exploration of the socio-cultural and economic barriers that impact care-seeking behaviors, adherence to treatment, and overall care delivery.
• Innovations in Treatment and Care: Research on cost-effective and sustainable treatment models, including community-based care and telemedicine, that can be implemented in resource-limited settings.
• Fertility Preservation: Addressing the important aspect of preserving fertility in young cancer patients, which is often overlooked in under-resourced settings.
• Oncology Training: Emphasizing the need for specialized oncology training programs to equip healthcare professionals with the skills necessary to address the specific needs of young cancer patients.
• Policy and Advocacy: Discussions on policy frameworks and advocacy efforts needed to prioritize cancer care for young populations in LMICs and the role of international collaboration in bridging gaps.
• Survivorship and Quality of Life: Investigations into the long-term outcomes and quality of life for cancer survivors, with a focus on psychosocial support, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
By gathering a diverse collection of research articles, reviews, and case studies, this Research Topic seeks to stimulate dialogue and foster collaboration among researchers, healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocacy groups. Ultimately, it aims to catalyze action and innovation that will lead to enhanced cancer care and survival rates for children, adolescents, and young adults in LMICs.
Keywords: oncology, Adolescence, Cancer, Epidemiology, Survivorship, Policy, LMCIs, Healthcare, Telemedicine, Pediatric Oncology, Young Adult Oncology
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
