Medical professionals from AIIMS Bhopal and Jodhpur, in collaboration with other healthcare experts, have proposed a new model to enhance cancer treatment services in smaller urban centers and emerging cities, according to a recent press release.
In a paper published in an open-access journal, the experts highlight that while cancer care has traditionally been concentrated in tier-1 cities, there is a growing expansion into tier-2 and tier-3 regions. However, these areas often face challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, rising treatment costs, and socio-economic disparities. The proposed model aims to streamline and optimize cancer care delivery in these underserved regions, ensuring more equitable access to quality treatment.
Fungal Infections Pose Growing Threat Amidst Diagnostic Gaps
“Invasive fungal infections threaten the lives of the most vulnerable, but many countries lack the treatments and diagnostics needed to save lives,” said Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Antimicrobial Resistance ad interim.
Dr. Nakatani pointed out that not only is there a shortage of new antifungal drugs and diagnostic tools, but many low- and middle-income countries, including district hospitals, lack basic fungal testing capabilities. “This diagnostic gap leaves the root cause of patient suffering unidentified, making it difficult to administer appropriate treatment,” she added.
Echoing the concern, Dr. Rajesh Chawla, a critical care specialist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Delhi, said they continue to receive patients with severe fungal infections. “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to manage these cases, especially when the fungi involved are resistant to existing drugs,” he noted.
