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Current challenges facing pediatric radiation oncology viewed through an economics lens
Author(s) -
Halperin Edward C.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
pediatric blood and cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.116
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1545-5017
pISSN - 1545-5009
DOI - 10.1002/pbc.28686
Subject(s) - radiation oncology , medicine , pediatric oncology , workforce , childhood cancer , medical physics , pediatric cancer , radiation therapy , proton therapy , medical education , intensive care medicine , cancer , economic growth , economics
This commentary addresses two problems facing pediatric radiation oncology: workforce education and the cost of technology. The tools of economics can help us understand these problems. Because cancer in children is relatively infrequent and the role of pediatric radiotherapy (RT) is limited, there are a small number of cases of children requiring RT in the US compared to the number of radiation oncology trainees. This creates a paucity of necessary clinical training material. Proton RT, rather than photon RT, is being recommended in many situations when RT is indicated in children. Cost, however, is a significant concern. The arguments for and against proton RT continue and a consensus on this matter has not emerged.