Strategies to improve diagnosis and access to treatment of
retinoblastoma in low-and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Abstract
Retinoblastoma, the most common intraocular tumor in childhood, still
faces challenges in diagnosis and treatment, particularly in low- and
middle-income countries. Identifying strategies to improve the time to
diagnosis and access to treatment is crucial to enhance survival rates
and preserve ocular health. We conducted a systematic review to identify
interventions that have demonstrated potential in addressing these
challenges. We performed a comprehensive search across databases until
March 2023. Out of the studies reviewed, twenty-one met the inclusion
criteria and were categorized into five main areas: surveillance
strategies, genetic counseling, education, public assistance and
international partnership. Despite the obstacles faced, the initiatives
identified in this review present acts towards improving the time to
diagnosis and access to treatment for retinoblastoma. Based on the
extracted data, we propose a comprehensive chain of initiatives. We
firmly believe that implementing this chain of initiatives can lead to
improved clinical outcomes for retinoblastoma patients.