Month: June 2020

Human cancer subtypes are traditionally classified according to certain clinical and pathological parameters that include the anatomical site of origin, microscopic histomorphology, tumor size, tumor grade, and regional lymph node involvement. This is a well-established classification scheme that relies on molecular and genetic information that helps classify different cancer subtypes and predict their behavior. In clinical practice, tests for tumor-specific characteristics can provide prognostic information and immediate treatment options.

With the increasing incidence of cancer in Latin America, the morbidity, mortality, and associated costs are mainly attributed to cancer in the advanced stage. Primary prevention, early detection and diagnosis, and timely and optimal treatment are leading public health priorities. In this section, we focus on current cancer prevention and detection strategies, particularly for cancers accessible to research and early detection; We also describe the challenges that arise in creating optimal cancer prevention and detection programs throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.

In high-income countries, such as the United States, a shortage of oncology services is anticipated by 2020, primarily due to increased cancer incidence and improved survival. ⁽¹⁾Cooper RA. The medical oncology workforce; an economic and demographic assessment of the demand for medical oncologists and hematologist-oncologists to serve the adult population to the year 2020. http://www.asco.org/ASCO/Downloads/Cancer%20Research/Medical%20Oncology%20Workforce-Cooper%20Study. Pdf (accessed Feb 13, 2013). ⁽²⁾Erikson C, Salsberg E, Forte G, Bruinooge S, Goldstein M. Future supply and demand for oncologists: challenges to assuring access to oncology services. J Oncol Pract 2007; 3: 79–86.