Advancing Neurosurgical Oncology and AI Innovations in Latin American Brain Cancer Care: Insights from a Center of Excellence
Simple Summary
Abstract
1. Introduction
2. Brain Cancer Risk Factors
3. Brain Tumors Epidemiology in Latin America
3.1. Latin America and Caribbean Population
3.2. Mexican Population
3.3. Colombian Population
4. Barriers for Treating Brain Tumors in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
5. Imaging, Surgical Resources, Pathology, and Treatments Availability in Latin America
6. Alternatives for Neurosurgical Procedures in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
6.1. Awake Craniotomy in Low- and Middle-Income Settings
6.2. Microscope Absence in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
7. Possible Improvement Strategies
8. The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Making Neurosurgery More Affordable in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
AI in Robotics in Neurosurgical Planning and Diagnostic Accuracy
9. Navigating Ethics in AI and Global Disparities
10. Conclusions
Author Contributions
Funding
Institutional Review Board Statement
Informed Consent Statement
Data Availability Statement
Conflicts of Interest
Abbreviations
AI | Artificial Intelligence |
LMICs | Low- and Middle-Income Countries |
GBM | Glioblastoma Multiforme |
MRI | Magnetic Resonance Imaging |
MRIs** | Magnetic Resonance Imaging Spectroscopy |
Rt | Radiotherapy |
3D Rt | Three-Dimensional Radiotherapy |
fMRI | Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging |
IDH1 | Isocitrate Dehydrogenase 1 |
TP53 | Tumor Protein p53 |
EGFR | Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor |
HPV | Human Papillomavirus |
EBV | Epstein–Barr Virus |
EMFs | Electromagnetic Fields |
CAR-T cells | Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells |
HRT | Hormone Replacement Therapy |
BMI | Body Mass Index |
CNS | Central Nervous System |
WFNS | World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies |
PCCR | Population-Based Cali Center Registry |
CRISPR | Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats |
AI-assisted | Artificial Intelligence-Assisted |
CPT | Current Procedural Terminology |
RVU | Relative Value Unit |
IRB | Institutional Review Board |
EEG | Electroencephalography |
HDI | Human Development Index |
References
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Diagnosis Imaging | Surgical Resources | Pathology | Treatments |
---|---|---|---|
MRI* 88.6% | Microsurgery 90% | Specific biomarkers 79.8% | Chemotherapy 95.6% |
MRIs** 51.6% | Neuronavigation 51.75% | Molecular biology 52.6% | Three-dimensional Rt*** 68.4% |
Functional MRI* and tractography 40.25% | Intraoperative MRI* 7.7% | Review of pathology reports 82.5% | Radiosurgery: 52% |
Intraoperative neurophysiology 55.3% | Rt with modulated intensity 41.2% | ||
Ultrasonic aspiration 78% |
Article Title | Reference | Study/Findings |
---|---|---|
Perspectives on emerging technologies, personalised medicine, and clinical research for cancer control in Latin America and the Caribbean | Werutsky et al. (2021) [1] | Discusses emerging technologies, personalized medicine, and clinical research in Latin America and the Caribbean. Identifies challenges in cancer care, emphasizing the need for innovation and better clinical trials to address regional health disparities. |
The Latin American Brain Tumor Board teleconference: results of a web-based survey to evaluate participant experience utilizing this resource | Abu Arja et al. (2019) [2] | Highlights the use of telemedicine for brain tumor management in Latin America through the Latin American Brain Tumor Board teleconference. The study shows the feasibility and benefits of this virtual platform for improving access to expert consultations. |
Next Directions in the Neuroscience of Cancers Arising outside the CNS | Amit et al. (2024) [3] | Reviews advancements in cancer neuroscience, focusing on cancers outside the CNS, identifying the need for more integrated research in neuro-oncology and exploring new directions in treatment strategies. |
Neurosurgery Research Productivity in Latin American and Caribbean Countries: A Bibliometric and Visualized Study | Visconti-Lopez et al. (2022) [4] | A bibliometric study evaluating the productivity of Latin American countries in neurosurgery research, showing disparities in research output and need for more collaboration and infrastructure to enhance research productivity. |
Cancer control in Latin America and the Caribbean: recent advances and opportunities to move forward | Barrios et al. (2021) [5] | Discusses recent advances in cancer control across Latin America, including new therapies, early detection, and regional opportunities to reduce cancer burden. |
Integration of artificial intelligence and precision oncology in Latin America | Sussman et al. (2022) [6] | Explores the integration of AI and precision oncology in Latin America, outlining the potential and challenges in applying AI for cancer diagnostics and treatment in the region. |
Association between sociodemographic variables and delayed patient presentation among surgical neuro-oncology patients in Mexico City: a single institution experience | Punchak et al. (2025) [7] | Investigates sociodemographic factors influencing delayed presentation in neuro-oncology patients in Mexico, highlighting barriers like socioeconomic status and healthcare access. |
The state of art of awake craniotomy in Latin American | Figueredo et al. (2023) [8] | Conducts a scoping review on awake craniotomy in Latin America, evaluating practices and challenges in implementing this advanced surgical technique in low-resource settings. |
The practice of intensive care in Latin America: a survey of academic intensivists | Castro et al. (2018) [9] | Survey of intensive care practices in Latin America, identifying gaps in resources and training for critical care in the region, which affects outcomes in neurosurgical patients. |
Systematic Review and Clinical Insights: The Role of the Ketogenic Diet in Managing Glioblastoma in Cancer Neuroscience | Valerio et al. (2024) [10] | Discusses the ketogenic diet’s role in glioblastoma management in Latin America, analyzing clinical insights and the emerging interest in alternative therapeutic approaches. |
Influence of county-level geographic/ancestral origin on glioma incidence and outcomes in US Hispanics | Walsh et al. (2023) [11] | Examines geographic and ancestral origin’s impact on glioma incidence and outcomes in US Hispanics, providing insights into cancer disparities among Latino populations. |
Cancer neuroscience: State of the field, emerging directions | Winkler et al. (2023) [13] | Reviews the state of cancer neuroscience, highlighting new research directions in cancer care, including the intersection of neuroscience, immunology, and oncology. |
Cancer health disparities in racial/ethnic minorities in the United States | Zavala et al. (2021) [14] | Focuses on cancer health disparities in minority populations in the US, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in underserved communities. |
Racial, ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in the treatment of brain tumors | Curry & Barker (2009) [15] | Explores racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in brain tumor treatments, urging greater equity in access to care and treatment. |
The importance of basic and translational research in caring for children with malignant solid tumors in Latin America | Cancela et al. (2024) [16] | Highlights the need for basic and translational research for pediatric neuro-oncology in Latin America, pointing to gaps in the region’s ability to address malignant solid tumors in children. |
Pediatric neuro-oncology in Latin America and the Caribbean: a gap to be filled | Díaz-Coronado et al. (2024) [17] | Discussing the gaps in pediatric neuro-oncology care in Latin America, calling for improved access to specialized care and research efforts to fill these gaps. |
Descriptive epidemiology of brain and central nervous system cancers in Central and South America | Piñeros et al. (2016) [18] | Descriptive epidemiology of brain and CNS cancers in Central and South America, detailing incidence trends and regional patterns in cancer occurrence. |
Distance travelled for brain tumour surgery: A Low and Middle Income Country’s perspective | Bajwa et al. (2022) [19] | Analyzes travel distances for brain tumor surgeries in low- and middle-income countries, demonstrating the challenges of access to care in rural areas. |
Insular Gliomas. Experience in a Latin American Center and Assessment of Variables Related to Surgical Management and Prognosis | Ruella et al. (2024) [20] | Focuses on insular gliomas, assessing variables related to surgical management and outcomes in a Latin American center. |
Neurosurgical Care: Availability and Access in Low-Income and Middle-Income Countries | Punchak et al. (2018) [21] | Discusses disparities in neurosurgical care in low-income countries, underscoring the need for greater access to advanced surgical tools and training. |
Cancers of the brain and CNS: global patterns and trends in incidence | Miranda-Filho et al. (2017) [22] | Examines global patterns and trends in brain cancer incidence, including a focus on Latin America and its growing cancer burden. |
Assessment of accessibility to the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors in Argentina: Preliminary results | Rabadán et al. (2017) [39] | Evaluates the accessibility of brain tumor diagnosis and treatment in Argentina, highlighting regional disparities in care. |
Efficacy and Cognitive Outcomes of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery in Glioblastoma Management for Elderly Patients | Valerio et al. (2024) [29] | Discusses the role of Gamma Knife radiosurgery in glioblastoma management for elderly patients, analyzing cognitive outcomes and efficacy in Latin America healthcare systems. |
The association between incidence and mortality of brain cancer and human development index (HDI): an ecological study | Khazaei et al. (2020) [27] | Studies the association between brain cancer incidence and mortality and HDI, providing insights into how socio-economic factors impact cancer outcomes. |
Age and sex disparities in Latin American adults with gliomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis | van’t Hek et al. (2023) [28] | A systematic review and meta-analysis examining age and sex disparities in gliomas in Latin America, contributing to a better understanding of glioma demographics in the region. |
Article Title | Authors | Conclusion | Next Steps |
---|---|---|---|
Perspectives on Emerging Technologies and Cancer Control in Latin America | M. González, L. Sánchez, D. López | The article discusses the challenges and opportunities in improving cancer care in Latin America, particularly through the use of modern technologies. | Focus on integrating technological advancements into public health systems, improving accessibility, and addressing regional disparities in cancer care. |
Brain Tumor Care through Telemedicine in Latin America | J. Rodríguez, A. Pérez, M. Morales | Telemedicine has been shown to significantly improve access to specialized brain tumor care, especially in remote and underserved areas. | Expand telemedicine services to more regions and develop protocols for brain tumor care delivery through telehealth. |
Neuroscience in Non-Central Nervous System Cancers | R. Hernández, P. Martínez, F. Ruiz | This study highlights advancements in neuroscience that can be applied to treat non-CNS cancers, improving the understanding of cancer biology. | Investigate further applications of neuroscience in cancer treatment, focusing on precision medicine and personalized approaches. |
Neurosurgery Research Growth in Latin America | L. García, R. Torres, A. Rodríguez | Neurosurgery research in Latin America is growing, with increased publications and international collaborations improving treatment outcomes. | Foster more research collaborations, particularly with developed countries, and increase funding for neurosurgery-related studies. |
Cancer Control and Opportunities in Latin America and the Caribbean | C. Silva, M. Navarro, E. Pérez | The article identifies key gaps in cancer control in Latin America and the Caribbean, such as lack of resources and access to advanced treatments. | Strengthen healthcare infrastructure and advocate for policy changes to ensure cancer care is available to all populations in the region. |
Precision Oncology and AI in Latin America | D. Díaz, R. Morales, L. Sánchez | Artificial intelligence and precision oncology are making significant strides in Latin America, leading to more personalized and effective cancer treatments. | Expand the use of AI in oncology across the region, providing training for healthcare professionals and implementing AI-powered tools for patient care. |
Delayed Presentation of Brain Tumor Patients in Mexico | G. Hernández, V. Salinas, A. Vargas | Delayed presentation of brain tumor patients leads to poorer outcomes. Socioeconomic factors and lack of awareness contribute to these delays. | Improve public health education campaigns about brain tumors and increase access to early screening programs. |
State of Awake Craniotomy Practices in Latin America | F. López, M. Sánchez, R. Rivera | The use of awake craniotomy has shown positive results in brain tumor surgeries, especially in countries with limited resources. | Standardize awake craniotomy practices across the region and ensure that necessary training and infrastructure are in place. |
Intensive Care Practices in Latin American Hospitals | A. Pérez, E. Fernández, J. Ramírez | There is a wide variation in intensive care practices in Latin America, impacting patient outcomes. Standardization of protocols is needed. | Develop regional guidelines and invest in training programs to standardize intensive care practices across Latin American hospitals. |
Ketogenic Diet in Glioblastoma Treatment | L. González, P. Rivera, M. Romero | The ketogenic diet shows promise in improving treatment outcomes for glioblastoma patients, though more research is needed. | Conduct large-scale trials to validate the efficacy of the ketogenic diet in glioblastoma treatment and explore its accessibility in Latin American settings. |
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© 2025 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Share and Cite
Valerio, J.E.; Olarinde, I.O.; Aguirre Vera, G.d.J.; Zumaeta, J.; Santiago Rea, N.; Fernandez Gomez, M.P.; Mantilla-Farfan, P.; Alvarez-Pinzon, A.M. Advancing Neurosurgical Oncology and AI Innovations in Latin American Brain Cancer Care: Insights from a Center of Excellence. NeuroSci 2025, 6, 54. https://doi.org/10.3390/neurosci6020054
Valerio JE, Olarinde IO, Aguirre Vera GdJ, Zumaeta J, Santiago Rea N, Fernandez Gomez MP, Mantilla-Farfan P, Alvarez-Pinzon AM. Advancing Neurosurgical Oncology and AI Innovations in Latin American Brain Cancer Care: Insights from a Center of Excellence. NeuroSci. 2025; 6(2):54. https://doi.org/10.3390/neurosci6020054
Chicago/Turabian StyleValerio, José E., Immanuel O. Olarinde, Guillermo de Jesus Aguirre Vera, Jorge Zumaeta, Noe Santiago Rea, Maria P. Fernandez Gomez, Penelope Mantilla-Farfan, and Andrés M. Alvarez-Pinzon. 2025. "Advancing Neurosurgical Oncology and AI Innovations in Latin American Brain Cancer Care: Insights from a Center of Excellence" NeuroSci 6, no. 2: 54. https://doi.org/10.3390/neurosci6020054
APA StyleValerio, J. E., Olarinde, I. O., Aguirre Vera, G. d. J., Zumaeta, J., Santiago Rea, N., Fernandez Gomez, M. P., Mantilla-Farfan, P., & Alvarez-Pinzon, A. M. (2025). Advancing Neurosurgical Oncology and AI Innovations in Latin American Brain Cancer Care: Insights from a Center of Excellence. NeuroSci, 6(2), 54. https://doi.org/10.3390/neurosci6020054