Radiotherapy access in Latin America: Socio-economic determinants and equity challenges socio-economic determinants in Latin America for radiotherapy

Socio-economic disparities-particularly GDP, healthcare coverage, and urbanization-are strongly associated with RT access inequities in Latin America. For the medical community and public policymakers, confirming these assumptions requires a different scope about discussions regarding access to these highly complex services, when they are not associated with the population's health needs but rather with the countries' mere organizational and financial capabilities. Some possible formats require the definition of new clinical and financial management models. Our findings underscore the need for targeted health policies, investment in infrastructure and workforce, and decentralized care models. Expanding RT services beyond urban centers and improving funding models are critical to ensuring equitable cancer treatment across the region.