Beth Beadle, MD, PhD

Abstract discussant Beth Beadle, MD, PhD, Professor and Director of Head and Neck Radiation Oncology at Stanford University, underscored the significance of the HYPNO trial in advancing global cancer care, especially in underprivileged settings.

“This trial could lead to a crucial change in practice in low-income countries and enhance access to care,” said Dr. Beadle. “However, it’s important to remember that the patient population addressed here greatly differs from what we generally observe in the United States.”

According to Dr. Beadle, this change is desperately needed, given the exponential rise in global cancer incidence. Dr. Beadle raised concerns about the preparedness of current health-care systems to address the “impending tidal wave of cancers,” which is expected to exceed up to 30 million cases by 2040, and urged providers to focus on rectification measures with a three-pronged strategy.

“First, we should aim to improve accessibility to radiation therapy, specifically in regions like Africa and Southeast Asia,” said Dr. Beadle. “Second, we need to scale up the number of trained professionals to tackle the predicted shortfall of over 50,000 radiation oncologists and physicists. Third, increasing efficiency in delivering care is much needed, and the HYPNO trial could contribute here. This trial will significantly change practice and improve access to care to save lives in low-income countries.” 

DISCLOSURE: Dr. Beadle reported no conflicts of interest.