The need for economic evaluations for neuro-oncology in low- and middleincome: the Pakistan perspective

Abstract

The incidence and prevalence of brain tumours have
steadily increased within low- and middle-income
countries, similar to patterns seen in high-income
countries. In addition to the epidemiological landscape of
brain tumours in Pakistan, it is important to consider the
economics of brain tumour diagnosis and management
to inform policy on neuro-oncological healthcare service
delivery. The challenges associated with conducting
economic evaluations in LMICs include the ability to
receive funding for country-specific estimates, dearth of
existing data and methodological development, and the
need for investment in economic evaluations of health.
Economic evaluations are most useful when funding
support is given to country-specific initiatives to allocate
resources. Cost and cost components must also be
meticulously collected to enable accurate calculations of
economic evidence for the decision-making process. To
put neuro-oncological care at the forefront of the national
health agenda, it is crucial for vigorous epidemiological
and economic evidence to be available for policymakers.
Keywords: Incidence, Health Care, Brain Neoplasms,
epidemiology.