Innovations for cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions to combat chemotherapy-induced alopecia: a narrative systematic review
A partir d'une revue systématique de la littérature publiée entre 2014 et 2024 (52 études), cette étude analyse les technologies innovantes de refroidissement du cuir chevelu pour prendre en charge une alopécie induite par la chimiothérapie, évalue leur rapport coût-efficacité et leur accessibilité pour les patients vivant dans des pays à faible revenu puis examine leur impact environnemental
Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) remains a distressing side effect of cancer treatment, affecting patients’ quality of life and psychological well-being. Scalp cooling is a promising intervention to prevent hair loss, yet challenges related to cost, accessibility, and environmental impact limit its widespread adoption. This narrative systematic review analyzed 52 studies published between 2014 and 2024 on innovations in scalp cooling technologies, focusing on cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and accessibility for low-income cancer patients. Findings indicate that gel-based, cryogel, and silicone-based cooling caps offer practical, affordable alternatives to machine-operated systems, while biodegradable and recyclable materials enhance environmental sustainability. Additionally, solar-powered and reusable designs show potential for use in low-resource settings. Overall, evidence suggests that affordable and eco-friendly scalp cooling solutions can significantly improve equity in cancer care by making hair-preserving interventions more accessible and sustainable.
Supportive Care in Cancer , résumé, 2026