Método Multicriterio Neutrosófico para la evaluación del precio de las pruebas de HPV por Biología Mole-cular en el Ecuador

Abstract

Cervical cancer represents the fourth most diagnosed cancer and the fourth cause of cancer death in women worldwide, with more than 22 million cases estimated by 2030, especially in regions such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The main cause of this type of cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is linked to more than 95% of cases. The present research aims to implement a Neutrosophic Multicriteria Method for the evaluation of the price of HPV tests by Molecular Biology in Ecuador. The prices of these tests in high, medium, and low complexity laboratories were reviewed, and surveys were conducted in 13 national laboratories, excluding reference laboratories. The average price of HPV Genotyping tests was $122.69, with significant variations ranging from $90 to $160. This geographic disparity in price can negatively impact accessibility, especially for low-income populations, where the cost of these tests can represent between 20% and 35.56% of the monthly minimum wage. The results underscore the need for policies that address economic and geographic barriers, and the implementation of publicly funded screening programs could ensure that all women have equitable access to these essential tests.