Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide after cardiovascular diseases. Cancer care represents a huge burden on healthcare systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Palliative care integration into cancer care has shown improvement in the outcomes of patients and their families in highresource settings, mitigating cancer care burden. However, the provision of palliative care in low-resource settings and LMICs is inadequate. The aim of this review is to discuss current challenges and innovations in cancer palliative care in low-resource settings. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in Medline (via PubMed), Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The provision of palliative care for cancer patients has been associated with multiple benefits, including improved quality of life, patients’ satisfaction, and better attitude toward diagnosis. However, its implementation in LMICs faces various challenges such as limited knowledge and awareness, inadequate finances, and systemic barriers. Furthermore, the provision of cancer palliative care in pediatrics and primary care settings is also inadequate. Multiple innovations were developed to improve the delivery of cancer palliative care, including PN-led initiatives, telemedicine services, medical and social care support, spiritual well-being programs, home care services, and community care services. Further research and sustainable implementation efforts are essential to optimize palliative care delivery and ensure equitable access in resource-limited settings.
Abdullah et al. (Wed,) studied this question.