As a large country, economic disparities persist as a public health issue in Brazil, with 70% of the population depending on the public health system. According to Dr. Theodora Karnakis, the aging population of patients with cancer is expected to result in a 61% increase of new cancer cases between 2020 and 2040. The type of care received depends heavily on where patients are located, due to the varying allocation of services. Dr. Karnakis emphasized equitable access to high-quality care, thorough cancer prevention efforts, and patient education as priorities in her country.

Guest:

Theodora Karnakis, PhD

Coordinator of Oncogeriatrics

Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo-ICESP/FMUSP

Coordinator of Oncogeriatrics

Hospital SírioLibanês

São Paulo, Brazil

Quote:

“It’s very interesting to recognize that in each part of the world, [our situations are different, yet the same]. It’s difficult to imagine that our reality is the same in other countries...but at the same time, we learn a lot and find ideas to propose in our country.”

Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog.

Additional Resources: Quality Improvement Officers: Key Members of the Multidisciplinary Cancer Care Team – Oncology Issues Patient Navigation Services Promote Equitable Access to High-Quality Care Tailoring Education for the Oncology Patient – Oncology Issues ABC’s of Health Disparities Reimbursement Changes Seek to Reduce Disparities in Access to Cancer Care