Building Radiology Equity: Themes from the 2023 RAD-AID Conference on International Radiology and Global Health.

Low- and middle-income countries are significantly impacted by the global scarcity of medical imaging services. Medical imaging is an essential component for diagnosis and guided treatment, which is needed to meet the current challenges of increasing chronic diseases and preparedness for acute-care response. We present some key themes essential for improving global health equity, which were discussed at the 2023 RAD-AID Conference on International Radiology and Global Health. They include (1) capacity building, (2) artificial intelligence, (3) community-based patient navigation, (4) organizational design for multidisciplinary global health strategy, (5) implementation science, and (6) innovation. Although not exhaustive, these themes should be considered influential as we guide and expand global health radiology programs in low- and middle-income countries in the coming years.

A Global Perspective on Screening.

Breast cancer is emerging as a major global public health problem. Incidence and mortality continues to rise in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). A significant and growing disparity exists between high-income countries and LMICs in the availability of screening services and associated preventable mortality. However, population imaging-based screening programs are not appropriate for all settings. Planners should perform a thorough assessment of the target setting prior to implementing any breast cancer detection program, as appropriate guidelines vary according to the resources available. Financial, social, and cultural barriers to breast cancer care need to be addressed to sustainably improve the morbidity and mortality of the populations and make efficient use of available services. Creative approaches, such as mobile and portable imaging and bundling of services, can facilitate the installation of early breast cancer detection programs in LMICs. While image-based screening programs are not initially resource-appropriate in many LMICs, planners can work towards this goal as part of their comprehensive breast cancer detection strategy.