Abstract
Purpose of Review
This paper will review the current literature on retinoblastoma (Rb) treatment and epidemiology worldwide, with a focus on interventions to improve survival in developing countries.
Recent Findings
In North America, Europe, and Japan, treatment for Rb has improved dramatically over the last few decades. In developing countries, however, numerous issues continue to limit Rb care, including access to specialists, cost of conventional treatments, and social/cultural considerations that contribute to delayed presentation. Some countries have instituted programs to address these barriers. Researchers have also been developing low-cost technology to improve screening techniques. These initiatives hold promise for the future of Rb treatment on a global scale.
Summary
A multidimensional approach to Rb care is necessary to bridge the gap in survival worldwide. Programs that address social/cultural barriers to care must be combined with partnerships between developed and developing countries to make state-of-the-art treatment available worldwide.
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References
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Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge Dr. Joan O’Brien, MD (Chairman, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania) for offering insight into the future of telemedicine screening with iPhone fundus photography.
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Asim Farooq, Sarah Hilkert, and Mark Greenwald declare no conflict of interest.
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Hilkert, S.M., Farooq, A.V. & Greenwald, M.J. Retinoblastoma: A Global Perspective. Curr Ophthalmol Rep 5, 119–127 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40135-017-0138-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40135-017-0138-z