Short View of Leukemia Diagnosis and Treatment in Iran



Azad M¹ ; Biniaz RB¹ ; Goudarzi M² ; Mobarra N³ ; Alizadeh S⁴ ; Nasiri H⁵ ; Fard AD⁶ ; Kaviani S⁷ ; Moghadasi MH⁷ ; Sarookhani MR¹ ; Vatanmakan M⁴ ; Sahmani M⁸
Source: International Journal of Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Research Published:2015

Abstract

Background: Early diagnosis and treatment of leukemia patients remains a fundamental aim in clinical oncology, especially in developing country. Present study highlights the basic requirements of these patients in Iran. Better understanding of these issues may lead to improve the healthcare standards toward leukemia diagnosis and treatment. Methods: This descriptive study included 101 specialists in hematology-oncology and pathology serving in oncology centers. The participants were then asked to fill out a standard questionnaire on the issues around diagnosis and treatment of blood malignancies. Results: According to specialists, unfair distribution of facilities across the country, delayed diagnosis of disease, absence of psychological support for patients, and insufficient financial support were the main reasons of inappropriate diagnosis and treatment in leukemia patients. Conclusions: Our results show that making an amendment to health policies by preparing well-equipped medical centers in all provinces, improving the morale of patients through consultation during the process of treatment, and above all, subsiding leukemia patients' financial problems will promote the health standard regarding the leukemia diagnosis and treatment in Iran. © 2015, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS). All rights reserved.