Cancer in the Third World: Bangladesh 1980

Bangladesh exemplifies all of the problems of Third World countries: poverty, hunger, reduced longevity, and an illiteracy rate hovering at more than 80 per cent. The current status of oncology in Bangladesh was surveyed. Staff physicians, deans, medical students, nurses and patients at six of the eight medical college hospitals, seven village hospitals, and a large private hospital provided background and clinical material. There are no medical or surgical oncologists in Bangladesh. The eight qualified therapists are able to provide only meager diagnostic potential or radiation therapy with their antiquated equipment. Pathology service was severely handicapped by understaffing and outmoded equipment. With a relatively modest investment, epidemiological studies could be undertaken and an effective cancer control program established since oral and cervical cancers are common.