In Zimbabwe, there are currently no official statistics on the incidence of brain tumours, leading to many patients being misdiagnosed or facing significant delays in receiving the correct diagnosis and treatment. The economic situation in the country has further compounded these challenges, with many hospitals struggling with non-functional equipment and limited resources. There are three major referral centres designated to handle brain tumour cases in Zimbabwe: Harare Hospital and Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare, and Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo. A few mission hospitals, such as Karanda Mission Hospital in Mt Darwin, can perform limited procedures like inserting ventriculoperitoneal shunts to relieve symptoms, but they are significantly limited in their capabilities due to resource constraints.

The country faces severe shortages of diagnostic and treatment equipment for brain tumours. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans are the primary tools used to diagnose brain tumours. However, access to diagnostic and treatment tools like Radiotherapy machines is extremely limited. Only a few hospitals, mainly in major cities, are equipped with functional MRI and CT scanners, and the high cost of these scans places them out of reach for most patients.

Even when a diagnosis is confirmed, access to treatment remains a major challenge. Most public hospitals lack functional Radiotherapy machines to treat brain tumpours. They also lack operating theatres, adequate intensive care facilities, anaesthetic drugs, and specialist staff required for brain tumour surgeries. In the private sector, while surgical operations are more readily available, the costs are prohibitive. A brain tumour surgery can cost approximately USD 6,000, excluding hospital stay and medication costs.

Brain tumours do not discriminate based on social or economic status; however, those with greater financial means often have access to better information and resources, allowing for earlier detection and treatment. In contrast, individuals in lower socio-economic brackets face delays in seeking care and receiving necessary investigations, resulting in a poorer prognosis.

The ZBTA continue to advocate for Improved Access to Diagnostic Tools and Treatment, ensuring that all patients, regardless of socio-economic status, have access to essential diagnostic tests like CT scans and MRI, as well as timely and affordable treatment options.