Improving cancer care access in the Philippines

Healthcare access in the Philippines faces challenges, especially in cancer treatment. Funding prioritizes diseases based on morbidity, limiting treatment availability for conditions like multiple myeloma.Geographic barriers and a lack of primary healthcare in remote areas complicate access.Advocacy groups and government initiatives aim to enhance cancer care, expand treatment facilities, and train more healthcare professionals, focusing on supporting disadvantaged populations.

Understanding multiple myeloma: Challenges and solutions

Multiple myeloma is often not recognized by primary physicians, leading to challenges in symptom identification and access to tests.Patients face difficulties reaching haematologists, especially in countries with specialist shortages.High medication costs and treatment side effects complicate care, particularly for older patients.Despite these issues, improving patient outreach and connections to the right physicians can enhance health outcomes and quality of life.