Title: Opportunities for Diagnosis and Treatment in Cancer Patients During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic

In 2020, UNAIDS set the 95-95-95 treatment targets to curb the HIV epidemic by 2025, but high attrition rates among people living with HIV may impede this goal. Up to one-fifth of those on antiretroviral therapy (ART) are lost to follow-up within a year. To address this, it's crucial to understand the causes of attrition through the lens of health inequalities created by social determinants of health. A project will assess the attrition of women living with HIV in Senegal, from diagnosis to ART use and viral suppression.

From 2013 to 2017, 24,963 new cancer cases were diagnosed in Cali, with prostate and stomach cancer prevalent among men, and breast and thyroid cancer among women. By 2022, an estimated 10,070 new cancer cases were projected based on population growth.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic significantly disrupted oncology practice worldwide, leading to increased vulnerability among cancer patients. This resulted in changes in care and outcomes, such as increased mortality, late diagnoses, suboptimal treatments, and therapeutic adjustments. Patients faced heightened psychological stress due to reduced access to support networks and healthcare services. However, the shift to teleconsultations improved care opportunities over time.

A study conducted by Fundación Valle del Lili and Universidad Icesi evaluated cancer diagnosis and treatment opportunities during the pandemic. Funded by the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Scholarship, the study revealed that the pandemic impacted cancer care in Cali, Colombia, due to the fragmented healthcare system. Despite this, Fundación Valle del Lili showed improvements in cancer risk management compared to city-wide indicators, with better overall survival rates attributed to early detection and new treatment strategies. The study highlights the importance of maintaining quality cancer care standards, offering a model for other institutions.