Global Experts Recommend Cancer Care Expansion and Radiopharmacy Boost in Chile

According to 2022 IARC data, Chile faces an annual average of nearly 60,000 new cancer cases and around 31,000 cancer-related deaths.

A recent comprehensive assessment of Chile’s cancer care system has provided an in-depth analysis of the country’s healthcare strengths and outlined critical areas for enhancement, particularly in the realm of radiopharmaceutical production. The week-long imPACT review, conducted in April 2025, brought together 13 international experts appointed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Their mission: to support Chile’s National Cancer Control Programme and to evaluate the readiness and effectiveness of its health system in combating the country’s growing cancer burden.

According to 2022 IARC data, Chile faces an annual average of nearly 60,000 new cancer cases and around 31,000 cancer-related deaths. Prostate, colorectal, and stomach cancers are predominant among men, while breast, colorectal, and lung cancers are most prevalent among women. These numbers reflect the urgent need for sustained and equitable cancer care delivery across all regions of the country.

National Strengths in Cancer Control

The expert team, working in collaboration with Chile’s Ministry of Health (MINSAL), visited healthcare facilities and held consultations in Santiago, Antofagasta, and Concepción. These visits confirmed several systemic strengths, including Chile’s universal health coverage, a well-trained and academically supported health workforce, and the adoption of cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment technologies.

“Chile’s commitment to continuous improvement in health care sets a strong example for the region,” remarked WHO Representative Giovanni Escalante. “This assessment not only highlights existing capabilities but also identifies pathways to future-proof the country’s cancer care.”

Identified Gaps and Recommendations

Despite Chile’s progress, the imPACT review highlighted several challenges in its cancer care delivery, notably:

• The need for improved governance and coordination across cancer control institutions

• Reduction of patient waiting times, particularly for diagnostics and treatment

• Expansion of equitable access to care in underserved and rural regions

• Strengthening of cancer surveillance and data information systems for informed decision-making

Chile’s current national cancer governance includes robust strategies such as the National Cancer Plan 2022–2027, the Child and Adolescent Cancer Plan 2023–2028, and complementary initiatives focused on preventive care and early diagnosis. These frameworks provide a strong base for scaling up efforts.

“Chile’s inclusive and participatory approach, engaging ministries, academia, and civil society, is pivotal in responding effectively to the cancer challenge,” emphasized Bernardo Martorell Guerra, Vice Minister of Healthcare Networks at MINSAL.

Strategic Role of Radiopharmaceutical Production

One of the most promising yet underutilized sectors identified was radiopharmacy, which plays a crucial role in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Chile already possesses advanced infrastructure in this domain, led by the public-sector Comisión Chilena de Energía Nuclear (CCHEN) and the private company PositronPharma, which produced over 37,000 PET doses in 2024, covering more than 90% of the national demand.

However, the concentration of radiopharmaceutical production in Santiago limits national reach. The review recommends:

• Decentralizing production and distribution networks

• Expanding capacity in regional healthcare centers

• Enhancing public-private collaboration and regulatory frameworks

• Exploring regional export potential to neighboring Latin American countries

“Radiopharmacy represents a strategic avenue not only for advancing cancer care but also for fostering scientific innovation and economic growth,” said Miguel Avilla, a radiopharmacy expert involved in the review.

A Roadmap for Future Action

The review concluded with a national workshop that validated findings and established a roadmap with short-, medium-, and long-term priorities. These will feed directly into national policy revisions and guide future international cooperation with agencies like the IAEA, WHO, and IARC.

IAEA's Continued Support to Chile

The IAEA has long supported Chile in integrating radiation medicine into its national cancer control strategy. Notably, in 2018, the IAEA partnered with the Universidad de los Andes and the Arturo López Pérez Foundation to launch a master’s program in advanced radiotherapy, addressing the regional shortage of qualified radiation oncologists.

Under the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, Chile has recently received two mammography units to support its decentralization efforts in cancer diagnostics, particularly for underserved populations.

Towards an Equitable Future in Cancer Care

Chile stands at a critical juncture in its fight against cancer. With a strong institutional base, strategic health policies, and international backing, the country is poised to expand and improve its cancer care ecosystem—one that not only meets current demands but also sets a precedent for Latin America in delivering high-quality, equitable health services.