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Radiation therapy is an evidence based, cost-effective component of comprehensive cancer care. It has been estimated that 1 in 2 people diagnosed with cancer should receive radiation therapy as part of their management. However, even in high income countries with universal health care, there is a clear access gap, with population-based data from a number of jurisdictions demonstrating that ~ 1 in 3 people diagnosed with cancer actually access radiation therapy. In low- and middle-income countries globally, the access gap is even more pronounced.

This talk will outline equity issues resulting in this access gap, including the existing barriers for vulnerable populations within well-resourced settings.  It will also outline how patient referral pathways contribute to the access gap. Current and future solutions, including advocacy, education, policy changes and culturally specific initiatives will be discussed.