Sequelae of cancer, challenge for the health system

Cristina Sánchez

Efe | THE PATRIA | Mexico

Surviving cancer means living with the physical, psychological, social and economic consequences rarely addressed, which represents a major challenge for health systems in Latin America, said Dr. Abelardo Meneses, director of the World Health Organization. National Cancer Institute "In the treatment of a patient with cancer, it is necessary to do, among others, rehabilitation, because those who study medicine focus all on treatment, but not after," he said. said Meneses during the celebration of Survivors Day. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world and in 2015, it caused the death of 8.8 million people.

and advances in research, technology and innovation in treatments have enabled the lives of patients diagnosed with this disease.

However, Meneses regretted that the p The health professionals show little interest in identifying the needs and conditions of this new group of patients.

The expert explains that in Europe and the United States, support programs for cancer survivors are established, while in Latin America, countries like Argentina The Brazil and Colombia started with these programs, but it's still a challenge for the region.

Cancer Survivor's Day aims to ensure that survivors feel welcome, in a friendly family environment, and feel their voice heard through programs that facilitate their survival.