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Price MD, Mali ME, Ernest A, Abrahams AOD, Goold E, Elvira L, Dedey F, Rositch AF, Price RR, Sutherland EK. Availability and geographic access to breast cancer pathology services in Ghana. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305901. [PMID: 39141634 PMCID: PMC11324111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer poses a significant health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Ghana, where late-stage diagnoses and limited healthcare access contribute to elevated mortality rates. This study focuses on the crucial role of pathology and laboratory medical (PALM) services in the timely diagnosis of breast cancer within Ghana. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of hospitals was completed from November 2020 to October 2021, with 94.8% of identified in-country hospitals participating. Pathology service-related parameters assessed included whether pathology was available for the diagnosis of breast cancer on-site or via external referral, the number of pathology personnel, additional breast cancer diagnostic capabilities including estrogen and progesterone and/or HER2 testing, and the time from biopsy to patients receiving their results. Geospatial mapping was used to identify areas of limited access. RESULTS Of the 328 participating hospitals, 136 (41%) reported breast cancer pathology services, with only 6 having on-site capabilities. Pathology personnel, comprising 15 consultants and 15 specialists, were concentrated in major referral centers, particularly in Greater Accra and Kumasi. An assessment of referral patterns suggested that 75% of the population reside within an hour of breast cancer pathology services. Among the 136 hospitals with access to breast cancer pathology, only a limited number reported that results included ER/PR (38%) and HER2 testing (33%). CONCLUSION Ghana has been able to ensure significant pathology service availability through robust referral pathways with centralized labs. Despite this, difficulties persist with the majority of pathology results not including hormone receptor testing which is important in providing tumor specific treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Price
- Center for Global Surgery, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Meghan E. Mali
- Center for Global Surgery, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, The University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
| | - Adjei Ernest
- Department of Pathology, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Eric Goold
- Department of Pathology, The University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
| | - Liz Elvira
- Center for Global Surgery, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
| | | | - Anne F. Rositch
- Department of Epidemiology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Diagnostics Division, Hologic, Inc, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| | - Raymond R. Price
- Center for Global Surgery, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, The University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
- Intermountain Health, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
| | - Edward K. Sutherland
- Center for Global Surgery, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Ensign Global College, Kpong, Ghana
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Omofoye TS, Rooney TB, Ganti R, Mvere M, Iqbal N, Musa B, Minja FJ. Designing a Collaborative Breast Radiology Training Program to Tackle Tanzania's Breast Cancer Crisis. J Am Coll Radiol 2024; 21:1208-1215. [PMID: 38461915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2024.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer incidence and mortality continue to increase in Africa. In Tanzania, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death for women, and breast cancer incidence and mortality are projected to increase by 80% by 2030. Education gaps among health care workers, delayed presentation, limited screening, and low health literacy all pose significant challenges to providing optimal breast cancer care. Considering these factors, it is imperative to train expert breast radiologists. We present a collaborative breast radiology training program in Tanzania aimed at building local capacity to address national breast cancer challenges. Although cancer control in Africa faces many challenges, developing customized training programs for breast radiology, in conjunction with national cancer programs, may represent a key strategy for addressing breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toma S Omofoye
- Strategic Director of Education, Department of Breast Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Texas.
| | - Timothy B Rooney
- Chief of Breast Imaging, Division of Breast Imaging, Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Ramapriya Ganti
- Division of Breast Imaging, Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | - Natasha Iqbal
- Department of Breast Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Balowa Musa
- Radiology and Imaging Department, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Frank J Minja
- Associate Chief of Radiology, and Medical Director Diagnostic Imaging, Hospital Service Line, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. https://twitter.com/frankminja
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Kaomba L, Ng'ombe J, Mulwafu W. Clinicopathological features and management of obstructive jaundice at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Malawi. A retrospective cohort analysis. Surg Open Sci 2024; 20:14-19. [PMID: 38873332 PMCID: PMC11169461 DOI: 10.1016/j.sopen.2024.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The diagnosis of obstructive jaundice (OJ) is a challenge and is often made late especialy in low-resource settings. There is a paucity of data on the aetiology and prognosis of patients with obstructive jaundice in Malawi and Sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of this study was to determine the aetiology, clinical presentations, and short-term treatment outcomes of patients managed for OJ in Malawi. Methodology A review of case notes of all patients admitted with a clinical diagnosis of OJ from 2012 to 2022 was done. We reviewed the clinical presentation, laboratory findings, management, intra and post-operative complications, and patient outcomes. Data was entered into an Excel spreadsheet and analysed using SPSS version 25. Results Of 26,796 patient admissions, 5339 (19.9%) were for non-trauma abdominal symptoms, of which 164 (0.6% of surgical admissions and 3% of abdominal symptoms) were for obstructive jaundice. Ages varied from 16 to 89 years. Females were 45 (58.4 %) of the population. The commonest presenting complaint was jaundice followed by abdominal pain and distention. The mean duration of symptoms at presentation was 8.5 weeks. The most frequent imaging modality was abdominal ultrasound 50(65 %). Twenty-six patients (33.8 %) were discharged with a diagnosis of obstructive jaundice of undetermined pathogenesis. The commonest diagnosis was pancreatic cancer 20(26.0 %) followed by Choledocholithiasis11(14.3 %). Patients younger than 50 years had the same likelihood of presenting with cancer as those older than 50 years. Conclusion It is important to have a high index of suspicion in all adult patients presenting with obstructive jaundice as patients younger than 50 years have a similar risk of malignancy as older patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Kaomba
- College of Surgeons of East Central and Southern Africa (COSECSA)
- Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, P/Bag 360, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi
| | - J. Ng'ombe
- Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, P/Bag 360, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi
| | - W. Mulwafu
- College of Surgeons of East Central and Southern Africa (COSECSA)
- Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, P/Bag 360, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi
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Li C, Zhang Z. Evaluation of urban-rural difference in breast cancer mortality among Chinese women during 1987-2021: A hierarchical age-period-cohort analysis. Cancer Epidemiol 2024; 92:102622. [PMID: 39018890 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2024.102622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer mortality varies in urban and rural areas in China. Studies have reported urban-rural difference across time period, however, the evaluation on urban-rural differences in age and birth cohort effects is limited. Our aim was to quantitatively assess urban-rural disparities in age, period and cohort effects in breast cancer mortality in China. METHODS We collected age-specific breast cancer mortality rates for urban and rural females aged 20-84 years from 1987 to 2021. Hierarchical age-period-cohort (HAPC) models were used to evaluate the effect of area (urban, rural) on breast cancer mortality and investigate urban-rural differences in age, time period and birth cohort effects. RESULTS We found a significant area (urban, rural) effect on breast cancer mortality in that rural females had a lower mortality risk than urban females [-0.25 (95 % confidence interval (CI): -0.32, -0.17)]. Age trajectories of mortality based on the HAPC model showed nonlinear trends with adjustment for area variable. The urban-rural difference in age effect appeared to be divergent with age, and urban women had higher mortality risk in the senior age group. The urban-rural difference in birth cohort effect indicated a reversal around the birth cohort group of 1962-1966, after which rural females had a higher mortality risk than urban females. CONCLUSION The area (urban, rural) could affect breast cancer mortality among women, and the effect of urban-rural difference varies with age and birth cohort. To promote the health of urban and rural females, the gap between urban and rural areas should be shorten.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui Li
- Institute of Data Science and Big Data Technology, School of Mathematics and Physics, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zeyu Zhang
- Institute of Data Science and Big Data Technology, School of Mathematics and Physics, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
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Le Clainche C, Marsaudon A, Rochaix L, Haon B, Vergnaud JC. Do Behavioral Characteristics Influence the Breast Cancer Diagnosis Delay? Evidence From French Retrospective Data. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2024:S1098-3015(24)02747-5. [PMID: 38977186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2024.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to analyze the behavioral determinants of breast cancer (BC) diagnosis delays in France. To do so, we investigated whether time discounting, risk tolerance, and personality traits influenced the BC diagnosis delay of patients. METHODS We used original retrospective data collected on 2 large online patient networks from 402 women diagnosed of BC. The BC diagnosis delay was measured by the difference between the date of diagnosis and the date of first symptoms. Time discounting and risk tolerance are measured with both self-reported questions and hypothetical lotteries. Personality traits are measured with the 10-item Big Five indicator. Ordinary least square and probit models were used to analyze whether these behavioral characteristics influenced the BC diagnosis delay. RESULTS Results showed that risk tolerance and time discounting were not significantly associated with the BC diagnosis delay. However, we found a longer diagnosis delay for women with a neuroticism personality trait (standardized coefficients ranged from 0.104 [P-value = .036] to 0.090 [P-value = .065]). CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings underline the need for an increased consideration of cancer screening public health policy for women with mental vulnerabilities since such vulnerabilities were found to be highly correlated with a neuroticism personality trait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Le Clainche
- CNRS, IESEG School of Management, UMR 9221 - LEM - Lille Economie Management, Lille University, Lille, France.
| | - Antoine Marsaudon
- Institute for Research and Information in Health Economics (Irdes), Paris, France
| | - Lise Rochaix
- Paris I Panthéon-Sorbonne University and Hospinnomics (Greater Paris University Hospitals and Paris School of Economics Research Chair), Paris, France
| | - Baptiste Haon
- Hospinnomics (Greater Paris University Hospitals and Paris School of Economics Research Chair), Paris, France
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Tagne Simo R, Nyemb AP, Baiguerel EM, Nwabo Kamdje AH, Mohamadou A, Nangue C, Telefo PB. Assessment of breast cancer awareness and detection of asymptomatic cases in Ngaoundere, Adamawa region of Cameroon. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32995. [PMID: 38988535 PMCID: PMC11234042 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In Cameroon and most African countries, breast cancer (BC) is mainly diagnosed at an advanced stage, leading to worse prognosis and disease consequences. This is partly due to the delayed presentation of patients, which constitutes a significant barrier to the effective management of the disease. The aim of this descriptive, cross-sectional study is to identify the level of awareness of breast cancer and screening practice among women and health professionals in the city of Ngaoundere, Cameroon. Methods Women and medical personnel were randomly recruited in two health institutions in the Adamawa region, Cameroon: the Ngaoundere Regional Hospital and the Ngaoundere Protestant Hospital. Two different questionnaires were prepared. The first was to collect sociodemographic data and assess participants' awareness of BC and related symptoms. The second was to collect information from the recommended screening methods for early detection of cases, including the frequency of screening practice among women and the daily practice of medical personnel. Results Out of the women surveyed, 88.05 % have heard of breast cancer, but the majority were unaware of its clinical signs (47.1 %) and the means of treatment (22 %). In the studied population, 66.4 % were aware of the screening, but the practice was very low, as only 1.1 % of women had ever undergone screening by mammography and only 6 % often practiced breast self-examination (BSE). The levels of screening knowledge and practice were significantly associated with the level of education and employment status (P = 0.0001). In the group of 94 health personnel surveyed, 68.1 % had no knowledge of breast cancer screening methods, and only 30 % performed breast cancer screening in their daily practice. The practice of BSE during the study allowed a detection of 2 % of screened women with some suspicious clinical signs. Conclusion This study revealed a lack of knowledge about BC and its screening methods and practice among women and health personnel in Ngaoundere. This lack of knowledge constitutes a significant barrier to early diagnosis of BC. There is a need to raise awareness and provide education and information about BC screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Tagne Simo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ngaoundere, Cameroon
| | - Adèle Patience Nyemb
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ngaoundere, Cameroon
| | - Erika Myriam Baiguerel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ngaoundere, Cameroon
| | | | - Ahmadou Mohamadou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ngaoundere, Cameroon
| | - Charlette Nangue
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Catholic University of Cameroon, Bamenda, Cameroon
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Mwobobia JM, Knettel BA, Headley J, Msoka EF, Tarimo CS, Katiti V, Juhlin E, Osazuwa-Peters N. "Let him die. He caused it": A qualitative study on cancer stigma in Tanzania. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003283. [PMID: 38865307 PMCID: PMC11168623 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stigma presents a critical barrier to care seeking, contributing to delayed presentation and poor cancer outcomes worldwide. The burden of cancer in Tanzania is on the rise, with cancer being the third-leading cause of death in the country. Despite rising incidence and poor outcomes of cancer, cancer-related stigma interventions have received low prioritization. There is a need for sound research that focuses on understanding attitudes driving stigma, its impact on care-seeking and treatment adherence, and intervention models to reduce stigma. We used a cross-sectional qualitative study design. We administered three open-ended qualitative questions to 140 adults newly diagnosed with cancer in Moshi, Tanzania. The questions explored common attitudes toward people with cancer, the perceived impact of cancer-related stigma on care engagement, and ideas for reducing cancer stigma. Patients were recruited during routine appointments at the Cancer Center at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center. Data were analyzed using a team-based, applied thematic approach and NVivo 12 software. All participants described stigma as a significant challenge for treatment and receiving support from their social networks. Perceptions of financial burden, misconceptions about cancer, such as the belief that it is contagious, and fear of death, were common attitudes driving cancer stigma. Most participants feared that symptoms would prevent them from being able to work and that the cost of cancer care would drive away loved ones. Stigma was not a ubiquitous response, as some participants reported increased care and social support from family members after a cancer diagnosis. Experiences of stigma contributed to feelings of shame, fear of burdening the family, reduced resources to access treatment, and disengagement from care. Common substitutes to medical therapies included religious interventions and traditional medicine, perceived as less expensive and less stigmatizing. Many participants felt they would benefit from improved financial support, professional counseling, and education for families and communities to reduce stigmatizing attitudes and enhance social support. There is a need for intervention studies focused on improving cancer literacy, community advocacy to reduce cancer stigma, and increasing emotional and practical support for people with cancer and their families. There is also a clear need for policy efforts to make cancer care more affordable and accessible to reduce the financial burden on patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith M. Mwobobia
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Brandon A. Knettel
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Duke University School of Nursing, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Headley
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth F. Msoka
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | - Victor Katiti
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Erika Juhlin
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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Gbenonsi GY, Martini J, Mahieu C. An analytical framework for breast cancer public policies in Sub-Saharan Africa: results from a comprehensive literature review and an adapted policy Delphi. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1535. [PMID: 38849808 PMCID: PMC11157826 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18937-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in women and is a major public health problem worldwide. Despite the lower incidence rates of breast cancer in resource-limited settings, especially sub-Saharan Africa, there is a higher mortality rate compared to high-resource countries where the disease has a higher incidence. This makes breast cancer the second deadliest cancer in African women. These poor results reflect the weakness in public health policies. The aim of this paper is to contribute to the effective control of breast cancer by designing a framework for a comprehensive and systemic analysis of these policies in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS This research is based on a literature review that adopted a systematic approach followed by a modified policy Delphi involving breast cancer experts in Sub-Saharan Africa. We included narrative reviews and systematic reviews/meta-analyses published between 2015 and 2022 as well as official documents in the analysis. We integrated the World Health Organization's health system building blocks with Walt and Gilson's policy analysis triangle to analyse the information collected and develop our analytical framework. RESULTS A total of 22 reviews and documents were included in the study. Sixteen breast cancer experts from Sub-Saharan Africa participated in the first Delphi round, and nine participated in the second round. The different components identified for a comprehensive and systemic analysis of effective breast cancer policies can be classified into policy content divided according to the health system building blocks and related policy processes; individual, organized national and international policy stakeholders; and policy contexts. CONCLUSION This study enabled the design of a framework suitable for the comprehensive and systemic analysis of breast cancer control policies in Sub-Saharan Africa. This framework can be used as a checklist for stakeholders to guide the planning, implementation and evaluation of policies and specific breast cancer control programmes at the national and facility levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Yawavi Gbenonsi
- School of Public Health- Research centre for Social Approaches to Health, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jessica Martini
- School of Public Health- Research centre for Social Approaches to Health, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- European Social Observatory (OSE), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Céline Mahieu
- School of Public Health- Research centre for Social Approaches to Health, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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Zewdie A, Kassie TD, Anagaw TF, Mazengia EM, Gelaw SS, Fenta ET, Eshetu HB, Kebede N, Bogale EK. Advanced-stage breast cancer diagnosis and its determinants in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:284. [PMID: 38734607 PMCID: PMC11088059 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03133-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Worldwide, breast cancer is the primary cause of illness and death. Unless early detected and treated breast cancer is a life-threatening tumor. Advanced-stage presentation is greatly linked with short survival time and increased mortality rates. In Ethiopia nationally summarized evidence on the level of advanced-stage breast cancer diagnosis is scarce. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of advanced-stage breast cancer diagnosis and its determinants in Ethiopia. METHOD By following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out. To include relevant publications, a broad literature search was conducted in the African Online Journal, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase which are published until last search date; June 15, 2023. To prevent further duplication this review was registered in PROSPERO database with ID no of CRD42023435096. To determine the pooled prevalence, a weighted inverse variance random effect model was applied. I2 statistics and the Cochrane Q-test were computed to determine heterogeneity. To evaluate publication bias, a funnel plot, and Egger's regression test were used. RESULT A total of 924 articles were sought and finally 20 articles were included in this review. The pooled prevalence of advanced-stage breast cancer diagnosis in Ethiopia was 72.56% (95%CI; 68.46-76.65%). Use of traditional medicine as first choice (AOR = 1.32, 95% CI: (1.13-1.55)), delay of > 3 months in seeking care (AOR = 1.24, 95% CI: (1.09-1.41)), diagnosis or health system delay of > 2 months (AOR = 1.27, 95% CI: (1.11-1.46)), rural residence (AOR = 2.04, 95% CI: (1.42 - 2.92)), and chief complaint of a painless breast lump (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI: (1.76-4.06)) were significantly associated to advanced-stage diagnosis. CONCLUSION In Ethiopia, more than two-thirds of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Use of traditional medicine before diagnostic confirmation, delay in seeking care, health system delay, rural residence, and chief complaint of painless breast lump were positively associated with an advanced-stage diagnosis. Policymakers and program designers give great focus to those delays so as to seek and access modern diagnosis and treatment as early as possible specifically focusing on those who are rurally residing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amare Zewdie
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia.
| | - Tadele Derbew Kassie
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Tadele Fentabel Anagaw
- Health Promotion and Behavioural science department, College of medicine and health science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Elyas Melaku Mazengia
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Sintayehu Shiferaw Gelaw
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Eneyew Talie Fenta
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Habitu Birhan Eshetu
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Behaviour, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, PO.Box.196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Natnael Kebede
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Eyob Ketema Bogale
- Health Promotion and Behavioural science department, College of medicine and health science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
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Kampi R, Okello C, Ochieng J, Mwaka ES. Informed consent in cancer clinical care: Perspectives of healthcare professionals on information disclosure at a tertiary institution in Uganda. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301586. [PMID: 38574007 PMCID: PMC10994281 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While there have been several studies examining the understanding and quality of informed consent in clinical trials of cancer therapies, there is limited empirical research on health practitioners' experiences on the informed consent process in cancer care, especially from low resource settings. This study explored health professionals' perspectives on information disclosure during the consenting process in cancer care. METHODS A qualitative descriptive approach was used to collect data. Face to face interviews were conducted with 10 purposively selected healthcare professionals who were actively involved in soliciting informed consent at a cancer treatment centre in Uganda. A thematic approach was used to interpret the results. RESULTS There were five key themes, and these included information disclosure to patients; assessment of patients' cancer awareness, treatment preferences and expectations; informed consent practices; barriers to optimal informed consent and information disclosure; and recommendations for improving the consenting process. All respondents appreciated the value of disclosing accurate information to patients to facilitate informed decision making. However, the informed consent process was deemed sub-optimal. Respondents asserted that patients should be the psychological wellbeing of patients should be protected by mentally preparing them before disclosing potentially distressing information. All healthcare professionals were appreciative of the central role the family plays in the consenting process. CONCLUSION Overall, informed consent practices were not ideal because of the several challenges. Inadequate time is devoted to information disclosure and patient education; there is lack of privacy; and informed consent documentation is poor. There is a need for significant improvement in informed consent practices and healthcare professional-patient communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Kampi
- School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Joseph Ochieng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Erisa Sabakaki Mwaka
- School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Demetriou D, Lockhat Z, Brzozowski L, Saini KS, Dlamini Z, Hull R. The Convergence of Radiology and Genomics: Advancing Breast Cancer Diagnosis with Radiogenomics. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1076. [PMID: 38473432 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16051076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite significant progress in the prevention, screening, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy of breast cancer (BC), it remains a highly prevalent and life-threatening disease affecting millions worldwide. Molecular subtyping of BC is crucial for predictive and prognostic purposes due to the diverse clinical behaviors observed across various types. The molecular heterogeneity of BC poses uncertainties in its impact on diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Numerous studies have highlighted genetic and environmental differences between patients from different geographic regions, emphasizing the need for localized research. International studies have revealed that patients with African heritage are often diagnosed at a more advanced stage and exhibit poorer responses to treatment and lower survival rates. Despite these global findings, there is a dearth of in-depth studies focusing on communities in the African region. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are paramount to improving survival rates. In this context, radiogenomics emerges as a promising field within precision medicine. By associating genetic patterns with image attributes or features, radiogenomics has the potential to significantly improve early detection, prognosis, and diagnosis. It can provide valuable insights into potential treatment options and predict the likelihood of survival, progression, and relapse. Radiogenomics allows for visual features and genetic marker linkage that promises to eliminate the need for biopsy and sequencing. The application of radiogenomics not only contributes to advancing precision oncology and individualized patient treatment but also streamlines clinical workflows. This review aims to delve into the theoretical underpinnings of radiogenomics and explore its practical applications in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of BC and to put radiogenomics on a path towards fully integrated diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demetra Demetriou
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Zarina Lockhat
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Luke Brzozowski
- Translational Research and Core Facilities, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Kamal S Saini
- Fortrea Inc., 8 Moore Drive, Durham, NC 27709, USA
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Zodwa Dlamini
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Rodney Hull
- SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU), DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
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Ouzennou N, Aboufaras M, Nacer N, Mejdouli H, Chouikh J, Rkha S. The triad of knowledge, regular medical consultation, and recommendations for enhanced breast cancer screening intention in Morocco. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:60. [PMID: 38296853 PMCID: PMC10830667 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05609-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The low rate of breast cancer screening in Morocco is linked to delayed diagnosis and increased mortality rates. Furthermore, there is a lack of research on the association between screening intention and knowledge levels. Our objective was to assess the level of knowledge regarding breast cancer and screening, identify the determinants of this knowledge, and determine predictive factors for screening intention. METHODS A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 1014 women in the city of Essaouira, Morocco, during the years 2018-2020. A stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors using SPSS software. RESULTS We found an above-average level of knowledge (67%). These knowledge levels were associated with several personal characteristics. Moreover, these knowledge levels proved to be powerful predictive factors for the intention to undergo screening, along with regular medical consultations and recommendations to undergo screening. CONCLUSION Women had a high level of knowledge about breast cancer and its characteristics. These knowledge levels were strongly associated with the intention to undergo screening. However, despite this, the low participation rate encourages the reinforcement of research to align knowledge, intention, and screening practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Ouzennou
- Institut Supérieur des Professions Infirmières et Techniques de Santé (ISPITS), Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Aboufaras
- Institut Supérieur des Professions Infirmières et Techniques de Santé (ISPITS), Higher Institute of Nursing and Technical Health Professions (ISPITS), Beni Mellal, Morocco.
| | - Nezha Nacer
- Institut Supérieur des Professions Infirmières et Techniques de Santé (ISPITS), Essaouira, Morocco
| | - Hicham Mejdouli
- Institut Supérieur des Professions Infirmières et Techniques de Santé (ISPITS), Essaouira, Morocco
| | - Jaouad Chouikh
- Institut Supérieur des Professions Infirmières et Techniques de Santé (ISPITS), Essaouira, Morocco
| | - Samia Rkha
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie, Neurobiologie, Anthropobiologie, Environnement et Comportements, Faculté des Sciences Semlalia, Université Cadi Ayyad, Marrakech, Morocco
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Daniel O, Ashrafi A, Muthoni MA, Njoki N, Eric H, Marilynn O, Faith AB, Beth WG, Nyakio M, Odero-Marah V, Ragin C, Llanos AAM. Delayed breast cancer presentation, diagnosis, and treatment in Kenya. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2023; 202:515-527. [PMID: 37668821 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-07067-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In this mixed-methods study, we evaluated the factors that contribute to delayed breast cancer (BC) diagnosis and treatment at a Kenyan hospital. METHODS Individuals with a diagnosis of BC, either as a referral or index patient, were recruited to participate in this study through convenience sampling. Data were collected on sociodemographics, health history, and cancer history, diagnosis, and treatment of patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). For the quantitative analyses, the relationship between sociodemographic and health history factors with stage at diagnosis, number of visits before diagnosis, time to diagnosis, and time to initial intervention, stratified by time to onset of symptoms, were examined using regression analyses. For the qualitative analysis, in-depth interviews of every fifth patient were completed to assess reasons for delayed diagnosis and treatment. RESULTS The final analytic sample comprised of 378 female BC patients with an average age of 50. These females were generally of lower SES: 49.2% attained no or only primary-level education, 57.4% were unemployed, and the majority (74.6%) had a monthly household income of < 5000 Kenyan shillings (equivalent to ~ $41 USD). The median time from BC symptom onset to presentation at KNH was 13 (IQR = 3-36) weeks, from presentation to diagnosis was 17.5 (IQR = 7-36.5) weeks, and from diagnosis to receipt of the initial intervention was 6 (IQR = 3-13) weeks. Female BC patients who were never/unmarried, less educated, less affluent, users of hormonal contraception, and had ≥ 3 children were more likely to experience diagnosis and treatment delays. Qualitative data showed that financial constraints, lack of patient BC awareness, and healthcare practitioner misdiagnosis and/or strikes delayed patient diagnosis and treatment. CONCLUSIONS BC patients experience long healthcare system delays before diagnosis and treatment. Educating communities and providers about BC and expediting referrals may minimize such delays and subsequently BC mortality rates in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ojuka Daniel
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box, Nairobi, 19969-00202, Kenya.
- African Caribbean Cancer Consortium, Philadelphia, USA.
| | - Adiba Ashrafi
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Musibi Alice Muthoni
- Cancer Treatment Centre, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- African Caribbean Cancer Consortium, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Njiraini Njoki
- Cancer Treatment Centre, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hungu Eric
- Cancer Treatment Centre, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Surgery, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Omondi Marilynn
- Cancer Treatment Centre, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Surgery, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Aseta Bonareri Faith
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box, Nairobi, 19969-00202, Kenya
| | - Wambui Githambo Beth
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box, Nairobi, 19969-00202, Kenya
| | - Mburu Nyakio
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box, Nairobi, 19969-00202, Kenya
| | - Valerie Odero-Marah
- Biology Department, Center for Urban Health Disparities Research and Innovation, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- African Caribbean Cancer Consortium, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Camille Ragin
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- African Caribbean Cancer Consortium, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Adana A M Llanos
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- African Caribbean Cancer Consortium, Philadelphia, USA
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Magara MS, Mungazi SG, Gonde P, Nare H, Mwembe D, Madzikova A, Chagla LS, Pereira J, McKirdy MJ, Narayanan S, Grimsey L, Hicks J, James R, Rainsbury RM. Factors leading to the late diagnosis and poor outcomes of breast cancer in Matabeleland South and the Bulawayo Metropolitan Provinces in Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292169. [PMID: 37922284 PMCID: PMC10624273 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of female cancer deaths in Africa, and in Zimbabwe, >80% present with advanced disease. A Needs Project (NP) was carried out to determine the key factors responsible for delayed diagnosis and poor BC outcomes and to investigate possible solutions in 6 rural and urban districts of Matabeleland South and Bulawayo Metropolitan Provinces. METHODS A mixed method approach was used to collect data in 2 phases. Phase 1: an exploration of key factors leading to poor BC outcomes with >50 professional stakeholders and patient representatives. Phase 2: (i) Quantitative arm; validated questionnaires recording breast cancer knowledge, demographic information and perceived barriers to care administered to women and their relatives (Group 1) and health professionals (HPs) (Group 2). (ii) Qualitative arm; 10 focus group discussions with medical specialists and interested lay representatives (Group 3). The Cochran sample size formulae technique was used to determine the quantitative sample size and data was aggregated and analysed using SPSS Version 23™. Purposive sampling for the qualitative study selected participants with an understanding of BC and the NP. Focus group discussions were recorded and a thematic analysis of the transcriptions was conducted using NVivo9™. RESULTS Quantitative analysis of Group 1 data (n = 1107) confirmed that younger women (<30years) had the least knowledge of breast cancer (p<0.001). Just under half of all those surveyed regarded breast cancer as incurable. In Group 2 (n = 298) the largest group of health workers represented were general nurses and midwives (74.2%) in keeping with the structure of health provision in Zimbabwe. Analysis confirmed a strong association between age and awareness of BC incidence (p = 0.002) with respondents aged 30-39 years being both the largest group represented and the least knowledgeable, independent of speciality. Nearly all respondents (90%) supported decentralisation of appropriate breast surgical services to provincial and district hospitals backed up by specialist training. Thematic analysis of focus group discussions (Group 3) identified the following as important contributors to late BC diagnosis and poor outcomes: (i) presentation is delayed by poorly educated women and their families who fear BC and high treatment costs (ii) referral is delayed by health professionals with no access to training, skills or diagnostic equipment (iii), treatment is delayed by a disorganised, over-centralized patient pathway, and a lack of specialist care and inter-disciplinary communication. CONCLUSION This study confirms that the reasons for poor BC outcomes in Zimbabwe are complex and multi-factorial. All stakeholders support better user and provider education, diagnostic service reconfiguration, targeted funding, and specialist training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munyaradzi S. Magara
- Department of Surgery, National University of Science and Technology Medical School, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Simbarashe G. Mungazi
- Department of Surgery, National University of Science and Technology Medical School, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Peeps Gonde
- Department of Polymer Technology, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Hausitoe Nare
- Department of Statistics, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Desmond Mwembe
- Department of Statistics, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Alex Madzikova
- Graduate School of Business, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Leena S. Chagla
- Burney Breast Unit, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St Helens, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Jerome Pereira
- James Paget University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norfolk, United Kingdom
| | - Mike J. McKirdy
- Clyde Breast Unit, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Paisley, United Kingdom
| | - Sankaran Narayanan
- Breast Unit, University Hospitals of North Midlands, Stoke-on Trent, United Kingdom
| | - Lis Grimsey
- Breast Unit, East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Eastbourne, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Hicks
- Burney Breast Unit, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St Helens, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth James
- Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Richard M. Rainsbury
- Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Winchester, United Kingdom
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Sauvaget C, Boutayeb S, Bendahhou K, Selmouni F, Belbaraka R, Muwonge R, Hassouni K, Lucas E, Alaoui L, Ibrahim Khalil A, Bennani M, Chami Y, Bekkali R. The journey of cancer patients and the quest to equity: findings from Morocco. Public Health 2023; 223:33-41. [PMID: 37597462 PMCID: PMC10547108 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rapid diagnostic and assessment pathways for cancer patients provide timely and effective care. This study took place in Morocco, where the majority of patients treated in the public sector are diagnosed at an advanced stage. The aim of this study was to determine the duration of different time intervals along the cancer patient pathway and to highlight problem areas so that strategies can be implemented to make the process more equitable and effective. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS Recently diagnosed cancer patients were recruited from four major oncology centres in Morocco; namely, Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, and Fez. A questionnaire survey was administered, including sociodemographic and medical information and questions on access to the oncology centre, beliefs, and opinions on the medical staff. The dates of symptom recognition, assessment, diagnosis referral, biopsy, and treatment initiation were collected. Different time intervals (patient, diagnosis, biopsy, and treatment) were estimated and their determinants were investigated. RESULTS A total of 812 patients were interviewed. The majority of participants were breast cancer patients. In total, 60% of participants were at stage III-IV. The main facilitators of cancer diagnosis confirmation and treatment initiation were easy access to diagnosis and treatment facilities, financial resources, personal history of cancer, time availability, late stage at diagnosis, advanced age, and private health insurance. The patient interval (i.e., time from symptom recognition to initial healthcare assessment) had a median duration of 30 days. The biopsy and treatment intervals were within the current international recommendations (7 and 28 days, respectively). However, the diagnosis interval (52 days) was twice as long as the recommended timeframes from the UK, Australia, and the World Health Organization (<28 days). CONCLUSIONS Interval targets should be defined to encourage health systems to be more equitable and effective and to ensure that cancer patients are treated within a defined timeframe.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sauvaget
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France.
| | - S Boutayeb
- National Institute of Oncology, Rabat, Morocco
| | | | - F Selmouni
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - R Belbaraka
- Oncology and Hematology Centre, CHU Mohammed VI, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - R Muwonge
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - K Hassouni
- Oncology Centre, CHU Hassan II, Fez, Morocco
| | - E Lucas
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - L Alaoui
- IQVIA Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - A Ibrahim Khalil
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - M Bennani
- Lalla Salma Foundation, Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Y Chami
- Lalla Salma Foundation, Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Rabat, Morocco
| | - R Bekkali
- Lalla Salma Foundation, Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Rabat, Morocco
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Wu J, Zeng N, Wang L, Yao L. The stigma in patients with breast cancer: A concept analysis. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2023; 10:100293. [PMID: 37886719 PMCID: PMC10597826 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Stigma is a common problem among patients having breast cancer. However, the concept of stigma is vague and not specifically described or clearly defined in the literature. The lack of description or definition has further limited stigma research among patients having breast cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify and analyze the concept of stigma in patients with breast cancer. Methods Walker and Avant's concept analysis method was applied to analyze the connotation of stigma in patients with breast cancer. PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and SinoMed databases were searched from inception until May 31, 2023. Results Five stigma-related attributes of patients having breast cancer were identified: (1) impaired body image and physiological function; (2) negative stereotypes; (3) mixed negative feelings about developing breast cancer; (4) a feeling of avoidance; (5) experienced discrimination. Antecedents included the implementation of breast surgery and postoperative time, negative psychological factors, lack of social support, and cultural beliefs. This stigma among patients having breast cancer had significant negative effects on their quality of individual life and marriage, postoperative rehabilitation, and healthcare-seeking behavior. Conclusions The concept analysis results clarified the concept of stigma in patients with breast cancer and provided theoretical guidance for the development of the conceptual model of stigma in these patients. What is more, it offered a theoretical basis for future studies related to the development of stigma assessment tools for breast cancer patients and for devising nursing intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieming Wu
- School of Nursing, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ni Zeng
- School of Nursing, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liping Wang
- School of Nursing, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liyan Yao
- School of Nursing, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
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Zhang J, Lu Y, Zhang N, Yu Z, Li H, He R, Mao Y, Zhu B. Global burden of female breast cancer and its association with socioeconomic development status, 1990-2044. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2023; 6 Suppl 1:e1827. [PMID: 37095062 PMCID: PMC10440843 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is a widespread disease in women worldwide. AIM We aimed to explore the global epidemiological trends of female breast cancer (FBC) between 1990 and 2044. METHODS AND RESULTS Disease burden, population, and socio-demographic index (SDI) data were obtained from the Global Health Data Exchange (GHDx) database. We analyzed temporal trends, age differences, risk factors, and geographic patterns of FBC disease burden globally and explored the association between age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of FBC and SDI. Bayesian age-period-cohort model was also performed to predict the changes in FBC incidence worldwide from 2020 to 2044. First, the global ASIR of FBC increased by 14.31% from 1990 to 2019 (95% Uncertainty Interval 4.75% to 23.98%). The death rate presented a falling trend. Second, alcohol use is the most-highlighted risk factor for FBC in some high-income regions such as Europe. A high fasting plasma glucose levels is the most prominent risk factor for FBC in Latin America and Africa. Third, the ASIR of the FBC increases with the SDI. Fourth, the incidence is expected to increase faster among women aged 35-60 years and fastest for those aged 50-54 years from 2020 to 2044. Countries with a high incidence of FBC that is expected to increase significantly include Barbados, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Monaco, Lebanon, Togo, and Uganda. CONCLUSION The disease burden of FBC varies worldwide; the findings suggest attaching importance to the control of middle and low-middle SDI regions. Public health as well as cancer prevention experts should pay more attention to regions and populations at an increased risk of developing FBC, focusing on their prevention and rehabilitation while conducting further epidemiological studies to investigate the risk factors of their increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingya Zhang
- School of Public Policy and AdministrationXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yongbo Lu
- School of Public Policy and AdministrationXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Public Policy and AdministrationXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Zeru Yu
- School of Public Policy and AdministrationXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Haorao Li
- School of Public Policy and AdministrationXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Rongxin He
- Vanke School of Public HealthTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Ying Mao
- School of Public Policy and AdministrationXi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Bin Zhu
- School of Public Health and Emergency ManagementSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenGuangdongChina
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Marcelin HN, Dasse RS, Yeboah RO, Tariam AD, Kagambega AGZ, Oseni AM, Kouassi YKK, Bilé MA, Toure M, Thakar M, Adoubi I, Kizub D. Circulating natural killer cells and their association with breast cancer and its clinico-pathological characteristics. Ecancermedicalscience 2023; 17:1567. [PMID: 37533944 PMCID: PMC10393315 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2023.1567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Natural killer (NK) cells play a critical role in cancer immunosurveillance and hold promise as both therapies and prognostic markers in advanced disease. We explore factors that may influence NK cell concentration in the peripheral blood of women with breast cancer in Côte d'Ivoire compared to healthy controls and implications for future research in our context. Methods In this cross-sectional case-control study, blood samples were taken from 30 women diagnosed with breast cancer within 6 months of diagnosis and fifteen healthy women at University Teaching Hospital [Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU)] Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, from March to September 2018. The blood draw could take place at any time following diagnosis and through treatment. Demographic and clinical data were collected. NK cells were isolated, stained, analysed and counted using the flow cytometer at the Department of Immunology at CHU of Cocody. All p-values were two-sided. Results Mean age among 30 women with breast cancer was 49 years old compared to 45 years old for 15 controls (p = 0.41). Among 30 women with breast cancer, 4 (13.3%) had Stage 2 disease, 14 (46.7 %) at Stage 3, and 12 (40%) at Stage 4. Fourteen (46.7%) had breast cancer that was hormone receptor-positive (HR+) HER2-negative, 10 (33.3%) had triple-negative cancer, three (10.0%) had HR+HER2+ disease, and three (10.0%) HR-HER2+ cancer. NK cell concentration was not associated with cancer diagnosis, age, cancer stage, subtype, or type of treatment patients received (p > 0.05). Conclusion Although we did not find an association between NK cell concentration, cancer characteristics or treatment, our results be limited by the small sample size and timing of blood draw. Our next steps include a larger study to explore circulating NK cells prior to any treatment and NK cell infiltration within breast cancer tumour and correlating this with response to treatment and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homian N’da Marcelin
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Treichville, 7XVV+5P4, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Romuald S Dasse
- Department of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Cocody, BP V 3, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Richard O Yeboah
- Department of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Cocody, BP V 3, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Agnès D Tariam
- Department of Immunology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Cocody, BP V 3, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Arsène G Z Kagambega
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Treichville, 7XVV+5P4, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Akandji M Oseni
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Treichville, 7XVV+5P4, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Y K K Kouassi
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Treichville, 7XVV+5P4, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Michel A Bilé
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Treichville, 7XVV+5P4, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Moctar Toure
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Treichville, 7XVV+5P4, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Monica Thakar
- The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Innocent Adoubi
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Treichville, 7XVV+5P4, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Darya Kizub
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Engel S, Jacobsen HB, Reme SE. A cross-sectional study of fear of surgery in female breast cancer patients: Prevalence, severity, and sources, as well as relevant differences among patients experiencing high, moderate, and low fear of surgery. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287641. [PMID: 37352256 PMCID: PMC10289430 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fear of surgery has been associated with more postoperative pain, disability, and a lower quality of life among patients undergoing various surgical procedures. While qualitative studies indicate breast cancer patients to be afraid of surgery, detailed quantitative analyses are lacking. The present research aimed at investigating the prevalence, severity, and sources of fear of surgery in this patient group and to compare patients reporting different degrees of such fear. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 204 breast cancer patients, 18-70 years old, and scheduled for surgery at Oslo University Hospital, Norway. Following their preoperative visit participants completed validated psychological questionnaires online. Among these, the primary outcome measure, the Surgical Fear Questionnaire (SFQ; scores: 0-10 per item, 0-80 overall). Patients were grouped based on SFQ-percentiles (<25th = little, 25th-75th = moderate and >75th percentile = high fear) and compared on psychological (anxiety, depression, experienced injustice, optimism and expected postsurgical pain), sociodemographic, and medical outcomes. RESULTS 195 patients completed the SFQ. On average fear of surgery was low (M = 26.41, SD = 16.0, median = 26, min-max = 0-80), but omnipresent. Only 1.5% (n = 3) indicated no fear at all. Overall, patients feared surgery itself the most (M = 3.64, SD = 2.8). Groups differed significantly (p < .001) in their experience of anxiety, depression, and injustice, as well as their disposition to be optimistic, and expectance of postsurgical pain. Differences between groups concerning demographic and medical information were largely insignificant. DISCUSSION This study was the first to demonstrate fear of surgery to be prevalent and relevant among female breast cancer patients. The higher a patients' fear group, the poorer their preoperative psychological constitution. This, largely irrespective of their current diagnoses or treatments, medical history, and demographics. Fear of surgery might thus cater as a prognostic marker and treatment target in this patient group. However, given the cross-sectional character of the present data, prognostic studies are needed to evaluate such claims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Engel
- The Mind Body Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Henrik Børsting Jacobsen
- The Mind Body Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pain Management and Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Silje Endresen Reme
- The Mind Body Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pain Management and Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Sando Z, Nnomo ACE, Tabola L, Likeng JN, Nganwa G, Atenguena E, Mapoko BSE, Sango A, Ndom P, Njombou SM, Ngueffo LS, Nkoum BA. [Perceived severity of cancer and therapeutic pluralism among medical oncologists at the Yaoundé General Hospital]. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 44:96. [PMID: 37229306 PMCID: PMC10204101 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2023.44.96.27765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction cancer is a potentially serious disease. The announcement of a cancer diagnosis is bad news. This diagnosis is experienced differently from one person to the next. Patient's behaviour and compliance reflects specific behaviors of relatives. Alternative treatments are commonly used in oncology in some African countries. The purpose of this study was to establish cancer patients' experience, the extent of the use of alternative treatments and factors influencing their choices. Methods we conducted a descriptive study at the Yaoundé General Hospital from December 2019 to May 2020. The study included patients over 18 years of age treated for cancer, who had been undergoing chemotherapy for at least three months and who agreed to complete the questionnaire. Results the interview involved 122 patients. Sex ratio was 1/1. The average age of patients was 45 years; 38.5% of patients thought that cancer is a very serious disease, 24% were desperate for diagnosis, 61% thought that recovery would be very slow. Pluralists in our sample accounted for 59.8%. Conclusion cancer patients and their relatives generally perceive cancer as serious. Patients experience a feeling of sudden and intense anxiety when they are diagnosed with cancer. Therapeutic pluralism is a frequent practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zacharie Sando
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences Biomédicales, Université de Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | | | - Lionel Tabola
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences Biomédicales, Université de Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Julienne Ngo Likeng
- Ecole des Sciences de la Santé, Université Catholique d´Afrique Centrale, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Grace Nganwa
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Douala, Douala, Cameroun
| | - Etienne Atenguena
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences Biomédicales, Université de Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | | | | | - Paul Ndom
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences Biomédicales, Université de Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Sylvanie Makou Njombou
- Ecole des Sciences de la Santé, Université Catholique d´Afrique Centrale, Yaoundé, Cameroun
- Women Impetus for a Development (WIFAD), Cameroun
| | - Linda Sando Ngueffo
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences Biomédicales, Université de Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroun
- Women Impetus for a Development (WIFAD), Cameroun
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21
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Hanafi I, Alsalkini M, Husein S, Salamoon M. The delay of breast cancer diagnosis and management during the Syrian war. Cancer Epidemiol 2023; 82:102290. [PMID: 36384074 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2022.102290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early detection of breast cancer (BC) is crucial for better prognosis especially in low-income countries, where advanced cancer stages are common. The Syrian war severely affected the healthcare system restraining the proper timely management of BC cases. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of patient- and system-related delays in BC diagnosis and management in Syria in addition to their predisposing characteristics and impact on the staging. METHODS This is a cross-sectional retrospective cohort study on patients followed by the BC unit at Al-Bairouni main cancer center in Syria. The data were collected through personal interviews and retrospective revision of patients' records. RESULTS A total number of 519 patients were recruited; A quarter of them (n = 126) reported more than three months intervals between symptoms recognition and presentation to a physician. Additionally, 72 (13.9 %) patients received a confirmed diagnosis more than three months after presentation, and 12 (2.3 %) started treatment at least three months after the diagnosis. Patients who suffered from war-related inaccessibility to healthcare were 2.55 [1.58-4.11] times more likely to report significant delays. Additionally, the most common self-reported reasons for patient delay were the lack of awareness, which was more evident for less common symptoms like the change in breasts size, and shyness. Patients who reported significant delays were more likely to receive an advanced-stage diagnosis. CONCLUSION War-related inaccessibility to healthcare rendered a significant group of BC patient susceptible to evident delay. This combined with significant system delays because of the overwhelmed hospitals, high costs, and insufficient personnel, equipment, medications, and training. However, personal factors, which might not be directly related to the war, like the inadequate awareness of rare symptoms and shyness still necessitate urgent interventions on the public knowledge and performed screening practices. These delays associated with receiving advanced-stage diagnoses and minimizing them can return better prognoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahem Hanafi
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria.
| | | | - Sara Husein
- Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Maher Salamoon
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
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22
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Misganaw M, Zeleke H, Mulugeta H, Assefa B. Mortality rate and predictors among patients with breast cancer at a referral hospital in northwest Ethiopia: A retrospective follow-up study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279656. [PMID: 36701343 PMCID: PMC9879427 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is one of the common global health concerns that affects2.1 million women each year and causes the highest number of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women. The objective of this study was to determine the mortality rate and its predictors among breast cancer patients at the referral hospitals, in northwest Ethiopia. METHODS A retrospective follow-up study was conducted on breast cancer patients registered between February 01, 2015 and February 28, 2018. They were selected by simple random sampling using computer-generated method and followed until February 29, 2020, in Amhara region referral hospital. A pre-tested data extraction checklist was used to collect data from the registration book and patient medical records. The collected data were entered into Epi-Data version 3.1 and exported to STATA version 14 for analysis. The mortality rate by person-year observation was computed. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve with the log-rank test was used to estimate the survival probabilities of the patients. Bivariate and multivariate Cox regression model was used to identify predictors of mortality. RESULTS The overall mortality rate of breast cancer was 16.9 per 100 person-years observation. The median survival time was 38.3 (IQR: 26.23, 49.4) months. Independent predictors of breast cancer mortality was; Clinical stage IV and stage III (aHR:10.44,95% CI: 8.02,11.93 and aHR: 9.43, 95% CI: 6.29,11.03respectively), number of positive lymph node in the category of 10 and more and number of positive lymph node within the category of 4-9 (aHR:12.58, 95%CI: 5.2, 30.46 and aHR: 4.78, 95% CI: 2.19, 10.43respectively), co-morbidities (aHR:1.5, 95%CI: 1.01,2.21), Postmenopausal (aHR:2.03,95% CI: 1.37, 3), histologic grade III (aHR:2.12, 95% CI: 1.26,3.55) and not received hormonal therapy (aHR: 2.19, 95%CI: 1.52,3.15) were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION The overall mortality rate was 16.9 per 100 person-years. The finding was higher compared to high-income countries. Advanced clinical stage, co-morbidities, menopausal status, and hormonal therapy are the significant predictors of mortality. Early detection and treatment of breast cancer is needed to reduce the mortality rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mekides Misganaw
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | - Haymanote Zeleke
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Henok Mulugeta
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Birtukan Assefa
- Department of Pediatric Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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23
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Petrova D, Garrido D, Špacírová Z, Fernández-Martínez NF, Ivanova G, Rodríguez-Barranco M, Pollán M, Barrios-Rodríguez R, Sánchez MJ. Duration of the patient interval in breast cancer and factors associated with longer delays in low-and middle-income countries: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Psychooncology 2023; 32:13-24. [PMID: 36345154 PMCID: PMC10100001 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Breast cancer survival is lower in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) partially due to many women being diagnosed with late-stage disease. The patient interval refers to the time elapsed between the detection of symptoms and the first consultation with a healthcare provider and is considered one of the core indicators for early diagnosis and treatment. The goal of the current research was to conduct a meta-analysis of the duration of the patient interval in LMICs and investigate the socio-demographic and socio-cultural factors related to longer delays in presentation. METHODS We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis (pre-registered protocol CRD42020200752). We searched seven information sources (2009-2022) and included 50 articles reporting the duration of patient intervals for 18,014 breast cancer patients residing in LMICs. RESULTS The longest patient intervals were reported in studies from the Middle East (3-4 months), followed by South-East Asia (2 months), Africa (1-2 months), Latin America (1 month), and Eastern Europe (1 month). Older age, not being married, lower socio-economic status, illiteracy, low knowledge about cancer, disregarding symptoms or not attributing them to cancer, fear, negative beliefs about cancer, and low social support were related to longer delays across most regions. Longer delays were also related to use of alternative medicine in the Middle East, South-East Asia, and Africa and distrust in the healthcare system in Eastern Europe. CONCLUSIONS There is large variation in the duration of patient intervals across LMICs in different geographical regions. Patient intervals should be reduced and, for this purpose, it is important to explore their determinants taking into account the social, cultural, and economic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dafina Petrova
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain.,Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain.,CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Dunia Garrido
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Zuzana Špacírová
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain.,Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain.,CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Nicolás Francisco Fernández-Martínez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain.,Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain.,CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Interlevel Clinical Management Unit for Prevention, Promotion and Health Surveillance, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ganka Ivanova
- Department of Applied Psychology, College of Education, Social Sciences and Humanities, Al-Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Miguel Rodríguez-Barranco
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain.,Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain.,CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Pollán
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,National Center for Epidemiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Barrios-Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain.,CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Maria José Sánchez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain.,Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain.,CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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24
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Lounsbury DW, Nichols S, Asuzu C, Odiyo P, Alis A, Qadir M, Nichols S, Parker PA, Henry M. Communicating bad news to patients and families in African oncology settings. Psychooncology 2023; 32:47-57. [PMID: 36045548 PMCID: PMC10496515 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To assess clinicians' self-reported knowledge of current policies in African oncology settings, of their personal communication practices around sharing bad news with patients, and to identify barriers to the sharing of serious news in these settings. METHODS A cross-sectional study of cancer care providers in African oncology settings (N = 125) was conducted. Factor analysis was used to assess cross-cultural adaptation and uptake of an evidence-based protocol for disclosing bad news to patients with cancer and of providers' perceived barriers to disclosing bad news to patients with cancer. Analysis of Various (ANOVA) was used to assess strength of association with each dimension of these two measurement models by various categorical variables. RESULTS Providers from Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Rwanda represented 85% of survey respondents. Two independent, psychometrically reliable, multi-dimensional measurement models were derived to assess providers' personal communication practices and providers' perceived barriers to disclosing a cancer diagnosis. Forty percent (40%) of respondent nurses but only 20% of respondent physicians had had formal communications skills training. Approximately 20%-25% of respondent physicians and nurses reported having a consistent plan or strategy for communicating bad news to their cancer patients. CONCLUSIONS Results show that effective communication about cancer diagnosis and prognosis requires an appreciation and clinical skill set that blends an understanding of cancer-related internalized stigmas harbored by patient and family, dilemmas posed by treatment affordability, and the need to navigate family wishes about cancer-related diagnoses in the context of African oncology settings. Findings underscore the need for culturally grounded communications research and program design.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ali Alis
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Myrha Qadir
- Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
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25
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Hassen HY, Hussien FM, Hassen AM, Dewau R, Amsalu ET, Limenih MA, Berhe NM, Kassaw NA, Sisay BG, Manzar MD. Survival pattern of colorectal cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cancer Epidemiol 2022; 81:102276. [PMID: 36257176 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2022.102276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Cancer incidence is relatively low in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), however, prognosis is expected to be poor in comparison with high-income countries. Comprehensive evidence is limited on the survival pattern of colorectal cancer patients in the region. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the pattern of colorectal cancer survival in the region and to identify variation across countries and over time. We searched international databases MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, ProQuest, CINAHL, and Google Scholar to retrieve studies that estimated survival from colorectal cancer in SSA countries from inception to December 31, 2021 without language restriction. Due to between-study heterogeneity, we performed a random-effects meta-analysis to pool survival rates. To identify study-level sources of variation, we performed subgroup analysis and meta-regression. Results are reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guideline and the protocol was registered in PROSPERO database (CRD42021246935). 23 studies involving 10,031 patients were included in the review, of which, 20 were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis results showed that the pooled 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-year survival rates in SSA were 0.74 (95% CI, 0.66-0.81), 0.50 (95% CI, 0.41-0.58), 0.36 (95% CI, 0.27-0.47), 0.31 (95% CI, 0.22-0.42), and 0.28 (95% CI, 0.19-0.38) respectively. Subgroup analyses indicated that the survival rate varied according to year of study, in which those conducted in recent decades showed relatively better survival. The 5-year survival was higher in middle-income SSA countries (0.31; 95%CI: 0.17-0.49) than low-income countries (0.20; 95%CI: 0.11-0.35), however, the difference was not statistically significant. In conclusion, survival from colorectal cancer is low in sub-Saharan Africa compared to other regions. Thus, intervention strategies to improve screening, early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer should be developed and implemented to improve survival in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Y Hassen
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium.
| | - Foziya M Hussien
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Anissa M Hassen
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Reta Dewau
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Erkihun T Amsalu
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Miteku A Limenih
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Neamin M Berhe
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Nigussie A Kassaw
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Binyam G Sisay
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Md Dilshad Manzar
- Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
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26
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Christiansen K, Buswell L, Fadelu T. A Systematic Review of Patient Education Strategies for Oncology Patients in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Oncologist 2022; 28:2-11. [PMID: 36269170 PMCID: PMC9847564 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyac206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patient education can facilitate early cancer diagnosis, enhance treatment adherence, and improve outcomes. While there is increasing cancer burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), there is little research to inform successful patient education in these regions. This systematic review summarizes the existing literature on oncology education and evaluation strategies in LMICs, identifies best practices, and highlights areas which require further investigation. METHODS The review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines and an a priori protocol. Four databases (Ovid Medline, Cochrane Libraries, Embase, and Cabi) were searched in December 2021. Two independent reviewers evaluated studies for inclusion. Using a coded data extraction form, information was collected about the study site, intervention characteristics, and evaluation methods. RESULTS Of the 2047 articles generated in the search, 77 met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-four countries were represented; only 6 studies (8%) were in low-income countries. The most common education methods included technology-based interventions (31, 40%) and visual pamphlets or posters (20, 26%). More than one education method was used in 57 (74%) studies. Nurses were the most frequent educators (25, 33%). An evaluation was included in 74 (96%) studies, though only 41 (55%) studies used a validated tool. Patient knowledge was the most common measured outcome in 35 (47%) studies. CONCLUSIONS There is limited empiric research on oncology patient education in LMICs. The available data show heterogeneity in education approaches and gaps in evaluation. Further research to determine successful patient education and evaluation strategies is urgently needed to improve treatment cancer outcomes in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lori Buswell
- Division of Population Sciences, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Temidayo Fadelu
- Corresponding author: Temidayo Fadelu, MD, MPH, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, MA-1B-17, Boston, MA 02215, USA. Tel: +1 617 632 6401;
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27
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Petrova D, Špacírová Z, Fernández-Martínez NF, Ching-López A, Garrido D, Rodríguez-Barranco M, Pollán M, Redondo-Sánchez D, Espina C, Higueras-Callejón C, Sánchez MJ. The patient, diagnostic, and treatment intervals in adult patients with cancer from high- and lower-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Med 2022; 19:e1004110. [PMID: 36264841 PMCID: PMC9584443 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Longer time intervals to diagnosis and treatment are associated with worse survival for various types of cancer. The patient, diagnostic, and treatment intervals are considered core indicators for early diagnosis and treatment. This review estimated the median duration of these intervals for various types of cancer and compared it across high- and lower-income countries. METHODS AND FINDINGS We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis (prospectively registered protocol CRD42020200752). Three databases (MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science) and information sources including grey literature (Google Scholar, OpenGrey, EThOS, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses) were searched. Eligible articles were published during 2009 to 2022 and reported the duration of the following intervals in adult patients diagnosed with primary symptomatic cancer: patient interval (from the onset of symptoms to first presentation to a healthcare professional), diagnostic interval (from first presentation to diagnosis), and treatment interval (from diagnosis to treatment start). Interval duration was recorded in days and study medians were combined in a pooled estimate with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Aarhus checklist. A total of 410 articles representing 68 countries and reporting on 5,537,594 patients were included. The majority of articles reported data from high-income countries (n = 294, 72%), with 116 (28%) reporting data from lower-income countries. Pooled meta-analytic estimates were possible for 38 types of cancer. The majority of studies were conducted on patients with breast, lung, colorectal, and head and neck cancer. In studies from high-income countries, pooled median patient intervals generally did not exceed a month for most cancers. However, in studies from lower-income countries, patient intervals were consistently 1.5 to 4 times longer for almost all cancer sites. The majority of data on the diagnostic and treatment intervals came from high-income countries. Across both high- and lower-income countries, the longest diagnostic intervals were observed for hematological (71 days [95% CI 52 to 85], e.g., myelomas (83 days [47 to 145])), genitourinary (58 days [50 to 77], e.g., prostate (85 days [57 to 112])), and digestive/gastrointestinal (57 days [45 to 67], e.g., colorectal (63 days [48 to 78])) cancers. Similarly, the longest treatment intervals were observed for genitourinary (57 days [45 to 66], e.g., prostate (75 days [61 to 87])) and gynecological (46 days [38 to 54], e.g., cervical (69 days [45 to 108]) cancers. In studies from high-income countries, the implementation of cancer-directed policies was associated with shorter patient and diagnostic intervals for several cancers. This review included a large number of studies conducted worldwide but is limited by survivor bias and the inherent complexity and many possible biases in the measurement of time points and intervals in the cancer treatment pathway. In addition, the subintervals that compose the diagnostic interval (e.g., primary care interval, referral to diagnosis interval) were not considered. CONCLUSIONS These results identify the cancers where diagnosis and treatment initiation may take the longest and reveal the extent of global disparities in early diagnosis and treatment. Efforts should be made to reduce help-seeking times for cancer symptoms in lower-income countries. Estimates for the diagnostic and treatment intervals came mostly from high-income countries that have powerful health information systems in place to record such information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dafina Petrova
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Zuzana Špacírová
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Nicolás Francisco Fernández-Martínez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Interlevel Clinical Management Unit for Prevention, Promotion and Health Surveillance, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ana Ching-López
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Dunia Garrido
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Miguel Rodríguez-Barranco
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Pollán
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- National Center for Epidemiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Redondo-Sánchez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Espina
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO), Lyon, France
| | | | - Maria José Sánchez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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Nnorom SO, Wilson LL. Breast Cancer in Black Women: Racial/Ethnic Disparities Affecting Survival. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2022; 31:1255-1261. [PMID: 35230169 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common noncutaneous malignancy affecting women in the United States, with >245,000 cases diagnosed annually. Breast cancer mortality rates have continued to trend down in the past three decades, yet racial/ethnic disparities persist, with the worst mortality rates seen in Black women. Of note, when compared by race, this downward trend is also trailing in Black women. Survival after breast cancer is mainly driven by factors related to early detection and effective therapy. These factors can be grouped into "biological" such as age, genetic mutations, tumor characteristics; and "social" such as education, income, access to care. There have been studies attributing racial disparities solely to biological factors, and there are those attributing the disparities to social factors alone. Although the exact mechanism is unclear, a relationship between both factors as relates to racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes has been demonstrated. In this report, we review factors contributing to the increased morbidity and mortality for breast cancer in Black women and explore sociological relationships. Facing the worst poverty rates compared with other races, Black women are inevitably more likely to be uninsured, have limited access to quality education, and have fewer financial resources. The goal of this review was to elucidate the complex interplay between biological and social factors contributing to racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes. We conclude by emphasizing the need for interventions made at both local and national levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhan O Nnorom
- Clive O. Callender Health Sciences Outcomes Research Center, Department of Surgery, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Lori L Wilson
- Clive O. Callender Health Sciences Outcomes Research Center, Department of Surgery, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Howard University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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29
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Dyan B, Seele PP, Skepu A, Mdluli PS, Mosebi S, Sibuyi NRS. A Review of the Nucleic Acid-Based Lateral Flow Assay for Detection of Breast Cancer from Circulating Biomarkers at a Point-of-Care in Low Income Countries. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12081973. [PMID: 36010323 PMCID: PMC9406634 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The current levels of breast cancer in African women have contributed to the high mortality rates among them. In South Africa, the incidence of breast cancer is also on the rise due to changes in behavioural and biological risk factors. Such low survival rates can be attributed to the late diagnosis of the disease due to a lack of access and the high costs of the current diagnostic tools. Breast cancer is asymptomatic at early stages, which is the best time to detect it and intervene to prevent high mortality rates. Proper risk assessment, campaigns, and access to adequate healthcare need to be prioritised among patients at an early stage. Early detection of breast cancer can significantly improve the survival rate of breast cancer patients, since therapeutic strategies are more effective at this stage. Early detection of breast cancer can be achieved by developing devices that are simple, sensitive, low-cost, and employed at point-of-care (POC), especially in low-income countries (LICs). Nucleic-acid-based lateral flow assays (NABLFAs) that combine molecular detection with the immunochemical visualisation principles, have recently emerged as tools for disease diagnosis, even for low biomarker concentrations. Detection of circulating genetic biomarkers in non-invasively collected biological fluids with NABLFAs presents an appealing and suitable method for POC testing in resource-limited regions and/or LICs. Diagnosis of breast cancer at an early stage will improve the survival rates of the patients. This review covers the analysis of the current state of NABLFA technologies used in developing countries to reduce the scourge of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Busiswa Dyan
- Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Health Platform, Mintek, 200 Malibongwe Drive, Randburg, Johannesburg 2194, South Africa
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Private Bag X6, Florida, Johannesburg 1710, South Africa
- Correspondence: (B.D.); (N.R.S.S.)
| | - Palesa Pamela Seele
- Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Health Platform, Mintek, 200 Malibongwe Drive, Randburg, Johannesburg 2194, South Africa
| | - Amanda Skepu
- Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Health Platform, Mintek, 200 Malibongwe Drive, Randburg, Johannesburg 2194, South Africa
| | - Phumlane Selby Mdluli
- Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Health Platform, Mintek, 200 Malibongwe Drive, Randburg, Johannesburg 2194, South Africa
| | - Salerwe Mosebi
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Private Bag X6, Florida, Johannesburg 1710, South Africa
| | - Nicole Remaliah Samantha Sibuyi
- Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Health Platform, Mintek, 200 Malibongwe Drive, Randburg, Johannesburg 2194, South Africa
- Correspondence: (B.D.); (N.R.S.S.)
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30
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McMahon DE, Chemtai L, Grant M, Singh R, Semeere A, Byakwaga H, Laker-Oketta M, Maurer T, Busakhala N, Martin J, Bassett IV, Butler L, Freeman EE. Understanding Diagnostic Delays for Kaposi Sarcoma in Kenya: A Qualitative Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:494-503. [PMID: 35499523 PMCID: PMC9283252 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although HIV-associated Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage in sub-Saharan Africa, reasons for diagnostic delays have not been well described. METHODS We enrolled patients >18 years with newly diagnosed KS between 2016 and 2019 into the parent study, based in western Kenya. We then purposively selected 30 participants with diversity of disease severity and geographic locations to participate in semistructured interviews. We used 2 behavioral models in developing the codebook for this analysis: situated Information, Motivation, and Behavior framework and Andersen model of total patient delay. We then analyzed the interviews using framework analysis. RESULTS The most common patient factors that delayed diagnosis were lack of KS awareness, seeking traditional treatments, lack of personal efficacy, lack of social support, and fear of cancer, skin biopsy, amputation, and HIV diagnosis. Health system factors that delayed diagnosis included previous negative health care interactions, incorrect diagnoses, lack of physical examination, delayed referral, and lack of tissue biopsy availability. Financial constraints were prominent barriers for patients to access and receive care. Facilitators for diagnosis included being part of an HIV care network, living near health facilities, trust in the health care system, desire to treat painful or disfiguring lesions, and social support. CONCLUSIONS Lack of KS awareness among patients and providers, stigma surrounding diagnoses, and health system referral delays were barriers in reaching KS diagnosis. Improved public health campaigns, increased availability of biopsy and pathology facilities, and health provider training about KS are needed to improve early diagnosis of KS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devon E McMahon
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | | | - Rhea Singh
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA
| | | | | | | | - Toby Maurer
- Department of Dermatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | | | | | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Esther E Freeman
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Mayuri M, Krishnamurthy PT, Vijayakumar TM. NK1 receptor antagonistic effect of 17-trifluoromethyl phenyl trinor prostaglandin F2α on the growth of human breast cancer cell line. Exp Mol Pathol 2022; 127:104817. [PMID: 35901925 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2022.104817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing number of genetic and cancer biology investigations have found that the tachykinin NK1 Receptor plays an important role in cancer cell proliferation and survival. In this study. The present study was designed to evaluate the inhibition of cell growth by 17-trifluoromethyl phenyl trinor prostaglandin F2α with NK1 receptor in breast cancer cell lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS MDB-MB-468 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines were used in the experiment were blocked with PGF2a. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were analyzed to evaluate the cytotoxic effect. Cell cycle distribution, Caspase-3 enzyme activity, Bad and Bax protein expression through flow cytometry and molecular docking were carried out to analyze the NK1 receptor activity. RESULTS We found that PGF2a has a high binding affinity towards NK1 Receptor from molecular docking studies. It exerted cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects against MDB-MB-468 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. Our data found that treatment of cells with 17-TPGF2 resulted in cell death and showed that increased expression of Caspase-3, Bad, and Bax protein and further induces G2 cell cycle arrest. CONCLUSION Overall this study investigates the NK1 receptor antagonistic effect of PGF2 against breast cancer cell lines. However, further studies are needed to better characterize the application of NK1 receptor inhibition in clinical cancer treatment and cytotoxicity effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutukuru Mayuri
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Praveen T Krishnamurthy
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, (JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research), Ooty, The Nilgiris 643001, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Thangavel Mahalingam Vijayakumar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Ayeni OA, O’Neil DS, Pumpalova YS, Chen WC, Nietz S, Phakathi B, Buccimazza I, Čačala S, Stopforth LW, Farrow HA, Mapanga W, Joffe M, Chirwa T, McCormack V, Jacobson JS, Crew KD, Neugut AI, Ruff P, Cubasch H. Impact of HIV infection on survival among women with stage I-III breast cancer: Results from the South African breast cancer and HIV outcomes study. Int J Cancer 2022; 151:209-221. [PMID: 35218568 PMCID: PMC9133061 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
In some countries of sub-Saharan Africa, the prevalence of HIV exceeds 20%; in South Africa, 20.4% of people are living with HIV. We examined the impact of HIV infection on the overall survival (OS) of women with nonmetastatic breast cancer (BC) enrolled in the South African Breast Cancer and HIV Outcomes (SABCHO) study. We recruited women with newly diagnosed BC at six public hospitals from 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2019. Among women with stages I-III BC, we compared those with and without HIV infection on sociodemographic, clinical, and treatment factors. We analyzed the impact of HIV on OS using multivariable Cox proportional hazard models. Of 2367 women with stages I-III BC, 499 (21.1%) had HIV and 1868 (78.9%) did not. With a median follow-up of 29 months, 2-year OS was poorer among women living with HIV (WLWH) than among HIV-uninfected women (72.4% vs 80.1%, P < .001; adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.22-1.83). This finding was consistent across age groups ≥45 years and <45 years, stage I-II BC and stage III BC, and ER/PR status (all P < .03). Both WLWH with <50 viral load copies/mL and WLWH with ≥50 viral load copies/mL had poorer survival than HIV-uninfected BC patients [aHR: 1.35 (1.09-1.66) and 1.54 (1.20-2.00), respectively], as did WLWH who had ≥200 CD4+ cells/mL at diagnosis [aHR: 1.39 (1.15-1.67)]. Because receipt of antiretroviral therapy has become widespread, WLWH is surviving long enough to develop BC; more research is needed on the causes of their poor survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatosin A. Ayeni
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Daniel S. O’Neil
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Yoanna S. Pumpalova
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wenlong Carl Chen
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- National Cancer Registry, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sarah Nietz
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Boitumelo Phakathi
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ines Buccimazza
- Department of Specialized Surgery, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Durban and Ngwelezana Hospital, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Sharon Čačala
- Departments of Surgery and Radiation Oncology, Grey’s Hospital, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Department of Surgery, Ngwelezana Hospital, Empangeni and University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Laura W. Stopforth
- Departments of Surgery and Radiation Oncology, Grey’s Hospital, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Hayley A Farrow
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Departments of Surgery and Radiation Oncology, Grey’s Hospital, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Witness Mapanga
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Maureen Joffe
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South Africa Medical Research Council Common Epithelial Cancers Research Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways to Health Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tobias Chirwa
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Valerie McCormack
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, (IARC/WHO), Lyon, France
| | - Judith S. Jacobson
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Katherine D. Crew
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alfred I. Neugut
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul Ruff
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South Africa Medical Research Council Common Epithelial Cancers Research Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Herbert Cubasch
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Division, Wits Health Consortium (PTY) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South Africa Medical Research Council Common Epithelial Cancers Research Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Nambaziira R, Niteka LC, Dusengimana JMV, Ruhumuriza J, Bhangdia KP, Mugunga JC, Uwineza ML, Rugema V, Erfani P, Shyirambere C, Shulman LN, Rabideau M, Pace LE. Health system costs of a breast cancer early diagnosis programme in a rural district of Rwanda: a retrospective, cross-sectional economic analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062357. [PMID: 35772820 PMCID: PMC9247687 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to quantify the health system cost of the first 2 years of a Breast Cancer Early Detection (BCED) programme in a rural district in Rwanda. We also aimed to estimate the cost of implementing the programme in other districts with different referral pathways and identify opportunities for enhanced cost efficiency. DESIGN Retrospective, cross-sectional analysis using time-driven activity-based costing, based on timed patient clinical encounters, retrospective patient data and unit costs of resources abstracted from administrative and finance records. SETTING The BCED programme focused on timely evaluation of individuals with breast symptoms. The study evaluated the health system cost of the BCED programme at seven health centres (HCs) in Burera district and Butaro Cancer Centre of Excellence (BCCOE) at Butaro District Hospital. OUTCOME MEASURES Health system costs per patient visit and cost per cancer diagnosed were quantified. Total start-up and recurring operational costs were also estimated, as well as health system costs of different scale-up adaptations in other districts. RESULTS One-time start-up costswere US$36 917, recurring operational costswere US$67 711 and clinical costswere US$14 824 over 2 years. Clinical breast examinations (CBE) at HCs cost US$3.27/visit. At BCCOE, CBE-only visits cost US$13.47/visit, CBE/ultrasound US$14.79/visit and CBE/ultrasound/biopsy/pathology US$147.81/visit. Overall, clinical cost per breast cancer diagnosed was US$1482. Clinicalcost drivers were personnel at HCs (55%) and biopsy/pathology supplies at BCCOE (46%). In other districts, patients experience a longer breast evaluation pathway, adding about US$14.00/patient; this could be decreased if ultrasound services were decentralised. CONCLUSION Clinical costs associated with BCED services at HCs were modest, similar to other general outpatient services. The BCED programme's start-up and operational costs were high but could be reduced by using local trainers and virtual mentorship. In other districts, decentralising ultrasound and/or biopsies to district hospitals could reduce costs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jean Claude Mugunga
- Monitoring, Evaluation and Quality Improvement, Partners In Health, Arlington, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Parsa Erfani
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | - Lydia E Pace
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Kumar Yadav S, Sharma D, Bala Sharma D, Kintu-Luwaga R, Jha CK, Shekhar S. Barriers and challenges in providing standard breast cancer care in low resource settings. Trop Doct 2022; 52:532-537. [PMID: 35762398 DOI: 10.1177/00494755221092899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the barriers to the delivery of internationally accepted breast cancer care in low resource settings (LRS) as compared to well-endowed resource settings (WRS) via an online survey. The survey was completed by 199 surgeons from eleven countries: 51 from WRS and 148 from LRS, based on our definition. The two most common facilities lacking in LRS were sentinel lymph node biopsy and immune-histochemistry (67% and 60% respectively). Only 22% respondents from LRS confirmed that all their eligible patients received hormonal therapy and only 8% radiotherapy as compared to 98% and 75% from WRS. Widespread limitations exist in most LRS, making internationally accepted breast cancer treatment guidelines impossible to follow, and thus resulting in suboptimal cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Saket Shekhar
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, 442340AIIMS, Patna, India
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35
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Molebatsi K, Iyer HS, Kohler RE, Gabegwe K, Nkele I, Rabasha B, Botebele K, Barak T, Balosang S, Tapela NM, Dryden-Peterson SL. Improving identification of symptomatic cancer at primary care clinics: A predictive modeling analysis in Botswana. Int J Cancer 2022; 151:1663-1673. [PMID: 35716138 PMCID: PMC10286759 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In resource-limited settings, augmenting primary care provider (PCP)-based referrals with data-derived algorithms could direct scarce resources towards those patients most likely to have a cancer diagnosis and benefit from early treatment. Using data from Botswana, we compared accuracy of predictions of probable cancer using different approaches for identifying symptomatic cancer at primary clinics. We followed cancer suspects until they entered specialized care for cancer treatment (following pathologically confirmed diagnosis), exited from the study following noncancer diagnosis, or died. Routine symptom and demographic data included baseline cancer probability assessed by the primary care provider (low, intermediate, high), age, sex, performance status, baseline cancer probability by study physician, predominant symptom (lump, bleeding, pain or other) and HIV status. Logistic regression with 10-fold cross-validation was used to evaluate classification by different sets of predictors: (1) PCPs, (2) Algorithm-only, (3) External specialist physician review and (4) Primary clinician augmented by algorithm. Classification accuracy was assessed using c-statistics, sensitivity and specificity. Six hundred and twenty-three adult cancer suspects with complete data were retained, of whom 166 (27%) were diagnosed with cancer. Models using PCP augmented by algorithm (c-statistic: 77.2%, 95% CI: 73.4%, 81.0%) and external study physician assessment (77.6%, 95% CI: 73.6%, 81.7%) performed better than algorithm-only (74.9%, 95% CI: 71.0%, 78.9%) and PCP initial assessment (62.8%, 95% CI: 57.9%, 67.7%) in correctly classifying suspected cancer patients. Sensitivity and specificity statistics from models combining PCP classifications and routine data were comparable to physicians, suggesting that incorporating data-driven algorithms into referral systems could improve efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kesaobaka Molebatsi
- Department of Statistics, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.,Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Hari S Iyer
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Racquel E Kohler
- Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kemiso Gabegwe
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Isaac Nkele
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Bokang Rabasha
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Tomer Barak
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana.,Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Neo M Tapela
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana.,Nuffield Department of Population Health, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Scott L Dryden-Peterson
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Cornetta K, Bonamino M, Mahlangu J, Mingozzi F, Rangarajan S, Rao J. Gene therapy access: Global challenges, opportunities, and views from Brazil, South Africa, and India. Mol Ther 2022; 30:2122-2129. [PMID: 35390542 PMCID: PMC9171243 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene and cell therapies for a variety of life-limiting illnesses are under investigation, and a small number of commercial products have successfully obtained regulatory approval. The cost of treatment is high, and clinical studies evaluating safety and efficacy are performed predominately in high-income countries. We reviewed the current status of gene and cell therapies in low- and middle-income countries and highlighted the need and current barriers to access. The state of product development in Brazil, South Africa, and India is discussed, including lessons learned from American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ASGCT)-sponsored virtual symposia in each of these countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Cornetta
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - Martín Bonamino
- Molecular Carcinogenesis Program, Research Coordination, National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Vice-Presidency of Research and Biological Collections (VPPCB), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Johnny Mahlangu
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Savita Rangarajan
- Faculty of Medicine University of Southampton, UK & KJ Somaiya Super Speciality Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Jayandharan Rao
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kapur, UP, India
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Carlos RC, Obeng-Gyasi S, Cole SW, Zebrack BJ, Pisano ED, Troester MA, Timsina L, Wagner LI, Steingrimsson JA, Gareen I, Lee CI, Adams AS, Wilkins CH. Linking Structural Racism and Discrimination and Breast Cancer Outcomes: A Social Genomics Approach. J Clin Oncol 2022; 40:1407-1413. [PMID: 35108027 PMCID: PMC9851699 DOI: 10.1200/jco.21.02004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
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Breast Cancer Screening in Low-Income Countries: A New Program for Downstaging Breast Cancer in Tanzania. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:9795534. [PMID: 35425839 PMCID: PMC9005288 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9795534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background. Most breast cancer diagnoses in Tanzania are in advanced stages. The Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) established a new breast cancer screening program in 2014 to reduce advanced-stage diagnoses. This study is aimed at describing the screening program’s referral process and at identifying patient and health system factors that contribute to patients completing diagnostic testing referrals. Methods. Six-hundred and forty patients were included in the study. Testing types, outcomes, and date of diagnostic results were abstracted from records at ORCI and Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) to determine the proportion of testing completed and the duration between initial referrals and diagnostic tests. Prediction of completion of diagnostic testing was investigated in logistic regression. Results. Of the patients who received referrals for further testing, fifty-two percent completed the recommended ultrasound (USS), mammography (MMG), and fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). Only 33.0% of patients completed the recommended MMG referrals compared to 55.0% for ultrasound and 68.7% for FNAC. The average number of days between initial screening and results was 42 days for MMG, 20 days for USS, and 18 days for FNAC. Significant predictors for completing referrals for USS, FNAC, and MMG included
and >55 years, presenting with symptoms at the initial appointment, and education. The odds of completing an USS was 3.03 (95% CI, 1.65-5.64) for patients 25–34, 2.27 (95% CI, 1.17-4.48) for patients 35–44, and 4.41 (95% CI, 1.66-10.11) for patients older than 55 years compared to the reference group (age 19–24). The presence of symptoms at the initial appointment was a significant predictor of FNAC. The odds of completing an FNAC was 1.55 (95% CI, 1.02-3.72) for symptomatic compared to nonsymptomatic patients. Education was a significant predictor of MMG. The odds of receiving MMG was 4.29 (95% CI, 1.05-21.00) for patients with tertiary education or higher compared to primary education or lower. Possession of health insurance for treatment and living in Dar es Salaam were not significant predictors. Discussion. Future research should focus on patients’ understanding of recommended referrals and factors that influence decision-making. Investigating the cost effectiveness of scaling up screening programs and setting up a patient navigation program that follow patients as they complete the recommended treatment plan will be crucial for Tanzania and other developing countries as they seek to launch and strengthen screening programs.
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Olecki EJ, Ssentongo P, Dao J, Wong WG, Stahl KA, Ofosu-Akromah R, Amponsah-Manu F, Pameijer C. Burden of cancer in the general surgical population in the eastern region of Ghana. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e051741. [PMID: 35351698 PMCID: PMC8966531 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the surgical burden of malignant disease in the Eastern Region of Ghana. DESIGN Descriptive cross-sectional study. SETTING Regional hospital in the eastern region of Ghana. PARTICIPANTS Patients treated by the surgery department at Eastern Regional Hospital in Koforidua, Ghana. INTERVENTIONS None. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome was incidence of malignancy and secondary outcome descriptive differences between patients who had a benign indication for surgery compared with those with a malignant indication for surgery. RESULTS A total of 1943 inpatient surgical procedures were performed from 2015 to 2017 with 13.4% (261) of all procedures ultimately performed for malignancy. Of all breast procedures performed, 95.2% of procedures resulted in a malignant diagnosis. The remaining subtypes of procedures had rates ranging from <1% to 41.2% of procedures performed for malignant disease. Additionally, this study found over 13% of patients admitted to the surgical service for breast cancer ultimately did not undergo a surgical procedure. CONCLUSION This is the first study investigating the burden of malignant disease in the Eastern Region of Ghana. We found a substantial prevalence of malignant disease in the surgical population in this region. This information can be used to aid in future medical resource planning in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paddy Ssentongo
- Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Joseph Dao
- Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - William G Wong
- Department of General Surgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kelly A Stahl
- Department of General Surgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | - Colette Pameijer
- Department of General Surgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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Elfgen C, Baumgartner S, Varga Z, Reeve K, Tausch CJ, Bjelic-Radisic V, Fleisch M, Güth U. Diagnostic delay in moderately/poorly differentiated breast cancer types. Eur J Cancer Prev 2022; 31:152-157. [PMID: 33899749 DOI: 10.1097/cej.0000000000000681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnostic delay of breast cancer related to the false-negative assessment of the healthcare provider leads to tumor progression and might worsen the outcome. Previous studies found some factors associated with provider-related diagnostic delay; however, tumor biology has tended not to be considered. The aim of our study was to find differences in diagnostic delay of poorly differentiated breast cancer types. METHODS Data of 970 patients with newly diagnosed moderately/poorly differentiated (G2/3) breast cancer at the age ≥40 years was retrospectively analyzed regarding breast cancer type, diagnostic delay and its consequence, clinical factors and physician's assessment. Multivariate analysis was used to evaluate associated factors with diagnostic delay. RESULTS We observed a diagnostic delay in 3.8% (n = 37) of all patients. Mean delay time was 128 days, and clinically relevant tumor growth was observed in 43.2% of these cases. Delay was significantly higher in the group of triple-negative breast cancer (9.9% versus 2.7, 5.3 and 1.8% in hormonal receptor (HR)+/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-, HR-/Her2+ and HR+/Her2+, respectively; P value <0.001). Age, breast density and reason for presentation were not correlated to diagnostic delay. CONCLUSION Patients with triple-negative breast cancer are at higher risk of receiving a false-negative assessment and experiencing a diagnostic delay. Our results emphasize the importance of a detailed consideration of clinical risk factors and provider training and suggest a broad indication for a core needle biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanze Elfgen
- Department of Breast Surgery, Breast-Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Witten-Herdecke, Witten-Herdecke, Germany
| | | | - Zsuzsanna Varga
- Institute of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital of Zurich
| | - Kelly Reeve
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph J Tausch
- Department of Breast Surgery, Breast-Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Landesfrauenklinik Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Vesna Bjelic-Radisic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Witten-Herdecke, Witten-Herdecke, Germany
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Landesfrauenklinik Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Markus Fleisch
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Witten-Herdecke, Witten-Herdecke, Germany
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Uwe Güth
- Department of Breast Surgery, Breast-Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Landesfrauenklinik Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
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Makene FS, Ngilangwa R, Santos C, Cross C, Ngoma T, Mujinja PGM, Wuyts M, Mackintosh M. Patients' pathways to cancer care in Tanzania: documenting and addressing social inequalities in reaching a cancer diagnosis. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:189. [PMID: 35151290 PMCID: PMC8841053 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07438-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This article investigates the extent and sources of late diagnosis of cancer in Tanzania, demonstrating how delayed diagnosis was patterned by inequities rooted in patients' socio-economic background and by health system responses. It provides evidence to guide equity-focused policies to accelerate cancer diagnosis. METHODS Tanzanian cancer patients (62) were interviewed in 2019. Using a structured questionnaire, respondents were encouraged to recount their pathways from first symptoms to diagnosis, treatment, and in some cases check-ups as survivors. Patients described their recalled sequence of events and actions, including dates, experiences and expenditures at each event. Socio-demographic data were also collected, alongside patients' perspectives on their experience. Analysis employed descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis. RESULTS Median delay, between first symptoms that were later identified as indicating cancer and a cancer diagnosis, was almost 1 year (358 days). Delays were strongly patterned by socio-economic disadvantage: those with low education, low income and non-professional occupations experienced longer delays before diagnosis. Health system experiences contributed to these socially inequitable delays. Many patients had moved around the health system extensively, mainly through self-referral as symptoms worsened. This "churning" required out-of-pocket payments that imposed a severely regressive burden on these largely low-income patients. Causes of delay identified in patients' narratives included slow recognition of symptoms by facilities, delays in diagnostic testing, delays while raising funds, and recourse to traditional healing often in response to health system barriers. Patients with higher incomes and holding health insurance that facilitated access to the private sector had moved more rapidly to diagnosis at lower out-of-pocket cost. CONCLUSIONS Late diagnosis is a root cause, in Tanzania as in many low- and middle-income countries, of cancer treatment starting at advanced stages, undermining treatment efficacy and survival rates. While Tanzania's policy of free public sector cancer treatment has made it accessible to patients on low incomes and without insurance, reaching a diagnosis is shown to have been for these respondents slower and more expensive the greater their socio-economic disadvantage. Policy implications are drawn for moving towards greater social justice in access to cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fortunata Songora Makene
- Economic and Social Research Foundation, 51 Uporoto Street, Ursino Estate, P.O Box 31226, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Richard Ngilangwa
- Economic and Social Research Foundation, 51 Uporoto Street, Ursino Estate, P.O Box 31226, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Cristina Santos
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA UK
| | - Charlotte Cross
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA UK
| | - Twalib Ngoma
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Muhimbili University of Heath and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Phares G. M. Mujinja
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Muhimbili University of Heath and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Marc Wuyts
- International Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Kortenaerkade 12, The Hague, 2518 AX The Netherlands
| | - Maureen Mackintosh
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA UK
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Tarus A, Cornetta K, Morogo D, Nyongesa J, Elias H, Boit JM. Palliative Care Needs in Breast Cancer Patients Entering Inpatient Hospice in Western Kenya. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:71-77. [PMID: 34333098 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Breast cancer in Kenya is associated with a high mortality due to late stage disease at presentation and limited access to specialty care. OBJECTIVES To understand the symptom burden in breast cancer patients entering hospice in Western Kenya and utilize the data to meet the growing need for palliative care and hospice services. METHODS We conducted a quality improvement exercise to assess the needs of Kenyan women admitted to inpatient hospice with the diagnosis of breast cancer. A retrospective chart review was undertaken to collect and collate demographic, physical and symptom data from a standardized admission form and the medical record. RESULTS Between 2011-2019, 62 women with breast cancer were admitted for care. The median age was 50.0 years (range 23-86) and the median time from diagnosis to admission one year (range 0-4). Only 20% had received surgical treatment for breast cancer. Pain was the predominant symptom on admission (98%) and breast wounds were the most common physical finding. Approximately 50% voiced worry, depression, and stress with <10% voicing spiritual distress. The mean length of stay was 42.6 days (median 10, range 1-1185). While over 70% died in hospice, 27% were discharged home. CONCLUSIONS The low rate of surgical intervention leads to painful breast wounds that were a major factor for many women seeking hospice admission. The findings challenge our team to maintain expertise in pain and wound management but to also include breast cancer awareness in our rural outreach services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Tarus
- Living Room Ministries International (A.T., D.M., J.N., J.M.B.), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Cornetta
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine (K.C.), Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Moi University School of Medicine (K.C.), Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Daniel Morogo
- Living Room Ministries International (A.T., D.M., J.N., J.M.B.), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Jackline Nyongesa
- Living Room Ministries International (A.T., D.M., J.N., J.M.B.), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Hussein Elias
- Department of Family Medicine, Moi University School of Medicine (H.E.), Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Juli M Boit
- Living Room Ministries International (A.T., D.M., J.N., J.M.B.), Eldoret, Kenya.
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Eustace RW. A Theory of Family Health: A Neuman's Systems Perspective. Nurs Sci Q 2021; 35:101-110. [PMID: 34939487 DOI: 10.1177/08943184211051365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the social contexts of health and healthcare delivery from a multilevel thinking perspective offers nurses an opportunity to prioritize research and interventions that address communicable and noncommunicable diseases across the care continuum. The content of this paper explains the development of a multilevel theory of family health for Sub-Saharan families affected by the burden of breast cancer guided by Neuman's Systems Model. Implications for knowledge development in family nursing practice and research in the region are discussed.
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Bawoke G, Kejela S, Alemayehu A, Bogale GT. Experience with modified radical mastectomy in a low-income country: a multi-center prospective observational study. BMC Surg 2021; 21:371. [PMID: 34670543 PMCID: PMC8527696 DOI: 10.1186/s12893-021-01374-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modified radical mastectomy is the procedure of choice in centers with little to no radiotherapy services. Studying the in-hospital outcome and complications associated with the procedure is important in low-income countries. METHODS This is a multi-center prospective observational study involving all patients operated with modified radical mastectomy with curative intent. RESULTS A total of 87 patients were studied with 10.3% of which were male and 54% were between the age of 30-49 years. Clinical stage IIB and IIIA were reported in 33 (37.9%) and 25 (28.7%) respectively and 62.1% had clinically positive lymph nodes at presentation. All of the studied patients underwent curative surgery, with an average lymph node dissection of 10.2 ± 0.83. Seroma rate was 17.2% and was significantly associated with diabetes (AOR: 6.2 (CI 1.5-8.7)) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (AOR: 8.9 (CI 1.2-14.2)). Surgical site infection occurred in 14.9% and was significantly associated with Retroviral infections (AOR: 4.2 (CI 2.1-5.8)) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (AOR: 1.8 (CI 1.3-3.9)). No in-hospital mortality occurred during the course of the study. CONCLUSION Seroma rate was lower than published studies while surgical site infections rate was higher. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was associated with increase in seroma and surgical site infection rates. Additionally, diabetes increased the rate of seroma. Surgical site infections were higher in patients with retroviral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giziew Bawoke
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Segni Kejela
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Abebe Alemayehu
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Girmaye Tamirat Bogale
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Mampunye L, van der Merwe NC, Grant KA, Peeters AV, Torrorey-Sawe R, French DJ, Moremi KE, Kidd M, van Eeden PC, Pienaar FM, Kotze MJ. Pioneering BRCA1/2 Point-Of-Care Testing for Integration of Germline and Tumor Genetics in Breast Cancer Risk Management: A Vision for the Future of Translational Pharmacogenomics. Front Oncol 2021; 11:619817. [PMID: 34660253 PMCID: PMC8513538 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.619817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Research performed in South African (SA) breast, ovarian and prostate cancer patients resulted in the development of a rapid BRCA point-of-care (POC) assay designed as a time- and cost-effective alternative to laboratory-based technologies currently used for first-tier germline DNA testing. In this study the performance of the new assay was evaluated for use on a portable screening device (ParaDNA), with the long-term goal to enable rollout at POC as an inventive step to meet the World Health Organization’s sustainable development goals for Africa. DNA samples for germline testing were obtained retrospectively from 50 patients with early-stage hormone receptor-positive breast cancer referred for genomic tumor profiling (MammaPrint). Currently, SA patients with the luminal-type breast cancer are not routinely selected for BRCA1/2 testing as is the case for triple-negative disease. An initial evaluation involved the use of multiple control samples representing each of the pathogenic founder/recurrent variants included in the BRCA 1.0 POC Research Assay. Comparison with a validated laboratory-based first-tier real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay demonstrated 100% concordance. Clinical utility was evident in five patients with the founder BRCA2 c.7934delG variant, identified at the 10% (5/50) threshold considered cost-effective for BRCA1/2 testing. BRCA2 c.7934delG carrier status was associated with a significantly younger age (p=0.03) at diagnosis of breast cancer compared to non-carriers. In three of the BRCA2 c.7934delG carriers a high-risk MammaPrint 70-gene profile was noted, indicating a significantly increased risk for both secondary cancers and breast cancer recurrence. Initiating germline DNA testing at the POC for clinical interpretation early in the treatment planning process, will increase access to the most common pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants identified in SA and reduce loss to follow-up for timely gene-targeted risk reduction intervention. The ease of using cheek swabs/saliva in future for result generation within approximately one hour assay time, coupled with low cost and a high BRCA1/2 founder variant detection rate, will improve access to genomic medicine in Africa. Application of translational pharmacogenomics across ethnic groups, irrespective of age, family history, tumor subtype or recurrence risk profile, is imperative to sustainably implement preventative healthcare and improve clinical outcome in resource-constrained clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lwando Mampunye
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nerina C van der Merwe
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service, Universitas Hospital, Bloemfontein, South Africa.,Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Kathleen A Grant
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Armand V Peeters
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rispah Torrorey-Sawe
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Immunology Department, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - David J French
- Division of Health Science and Innovation, LGC Limited, Teddington, United Kingdom
| | - Kelebogile E Moremi
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Martin Kidd
- Centre for Statistical Consultation, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | | | | | - Maritha J Kotze
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Chemical Pathology, National Health Laboratory Service, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Teshome B, Trabitzsch J, Afework T, Addissie A, Kaba M, Kantelhardt EJ, Getachew S. Perceived barriers to timely treatment initiation and social support status among women with breast cancer in Ethiopia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257163. [PMID: 34516552 PMCID: PMC8437283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Timely care is essential to increase breast cancer survival. However, patients in Ethiopia still face multilevel barriers on their pathway to timely treatment initiation. This cross-sectional study at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital Oncology Unit in Addis Ababa assessed systemic treatment initiation intervals of breast cancer patients and quantified the impact of socio-demographic and clinical factors, perceived barriers, and the patients´ perceived social support status on timely systemic treatment initiation (chemotherapy or hormonal therapy). A structured questionnaire was designed based on Pechansky´s "Concept of Access". Applying simple and multivariate logistic regression we analysed the influence of patients´ characteristics as well as their perceived barriers on timely treatment initiation. We measured social support with the Multidimensional Score of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and used the Wilcoxon Rank-Sum Test to assess its relationship with timely treatment initiation. Of 196 patients included into the study, 53% received systemic treatment within 90 days of their pathological diagnosis-the median treatment initiation interval was 85 days (IQR 123.5). Older women and patients diagnosed at late stages had higher odds of timely treatment initiation. Not being able to pay for services and lack of transport were most often perceived as barriers towards timely care. However, none of the perceived barriers showed a substantial influence on timely treatment initiation in the multivariate regression model. The patients´ perceived social support was found to be high, with an average MSPSS score of 73 out of 84 (SD 13,63). No impact of the perceived social support status on timely treatment initiation was found. The percentage of breast cancer patients waiting longer than 90 days from pathological diagnosis to systemic treatment initiation in Ethiopia remains unacceptably high. While women generally feel well supported by their social environment, costs and accessibility of treatment are perceived to be major barriers towards timely treatment initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethel Teshome
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Josephin Trabitzsch
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Tsion Afework
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Adamu Addissie
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Mirgissa Kaba
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Eva Johanna Kantelhardt
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
- Department of Gynaecology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Sefonias Getachew
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
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Sanyang O, Lopez-Verdugo F, Mali M, Moustafa M, Nellermoe J, Sorensen J, Bittaye M, Njie R, Singhateh Y, Sambou NA, Goldsmith A, Mohammed NI, Brownson KE, Price RR, Sutherland E. Geospatial analysis and impact of targeted development of breast cancer care in The Gambia: a cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:943. [PMID: 34503503 PMCID: PMC8428029 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06963-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Gambia has one of the lowest survival rates for breast cancer in Africa. Contributing factors are late presentation, delays within the healthcare system, and decreased availability of resources. We aimed to characterize the capacity and geographic location of healthcare facilities in the country and calculate the proportion of the population with access to breast cancer care. METHODS A facility-based assessment tool was administered to secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities and private medical centers and clinics in The Gambia. GPS coordinates were obtained, and proximity of service availability and population analysis were performed. Distance thresholds of 10, 20, and 45 km were chosen to determine access to screening, pathologic diagnosis, and surgical management. An additional population analysis was performed to observe the potential impact of targeted development of resources for breast cancer care. RESULTS All 102 secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities and private medical centers and clinics in The Gambia were included. Breast cancer screening is mainly performed through clinical breast examination and is available in 52 facilities. Seven facilities provide pathologic diagnosis and surgical management of breast cancer. The proportion of the Gambian population with access to screening, pathologic diagnosis, and surgical management is 72, 53, and 62%, respectively. A hypothetical targeted expansion of resources would increase the covered population to 95, 62, and 84%. CONCLUSIONS Almost half of the Gambian population does not have access to pathologic diagnosis and surgical management of breast cancer within the distance threshold utilized in the study. Mapping and population analysis can identify areas for targeted development of resources to increase access to breast cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ousman Sanyang
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul, The Gambia
- School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of The Gambia, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Fidel Lopez-Verdugo
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Meghan Mali
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Moustafa Moustafa
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jonathan Nellermoe
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Justin Sorensen
- J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Mustapha Bittaye
- School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of The Gambia, Banjul, The Gambia
- The Gambia Ministry of Health, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Ramou Njie
- Department of Surgery, Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul, The Gambia
- School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of The Gambia, Banjul, The Gambia
| | | | | | - Alison Goldsmith
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Nuredin I Mohammed
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Kirstyn E Brownson
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Raymond R Price
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, Intermountain Medical Center, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Edward Sutherland
- Center for Global Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Ensign College of Public Health, Eastern Region, Kpong, Ghana.
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Utilization and predictors of postmastectomy radiation receipt in an Oncology Center in Zimbabwe. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 189:701-709. [PMID: 34387794 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06338-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Few sub-Saharan African studies have ascertained utilization for postmastectomy radiation (PMRT) for breast cancer, the second most common cancer among African women. We estimated PMRT utilization and identified predictors of PMRT receipt in Zimbabwe. METHODS Retrospective patient cohort included non-metastatic breast cancer patients treated from 2014 to 2019. PMRT eligibility was assigned per NCCN guidelines. Patients receiving chemotherapy for non-metastatic disease were also included. The primary endpoint was receipt of PMRT, defined as chest wall with/without regional nodal radiation. Predictors of receiving PMRT were identified using logistic regression. Model performance was evaluated using the c statistic and Hosmer-Lemeshow test for goodness-of-fit. RESULTS 201 women with localized disease and median follow-up of 11.4 months (IQR 3.3-17.9) were analyzed. PMRT was indicated in 177 women and utilized in 59(33.3%). Insurance coverage, clinical nodal involvement, higher grade, positive margins, and hormone therapy receipt were associated with higher odds of PMRT receipt. In adjusted models, no hormone therapy (aOR 0.12, 95% CI 0.043, 0.35) and missing grade (aOR 0.07, 95% CI 0.01, 0.38) were associated with lower odds of PMRT receipt. The resulting c statistic was 0.84, with Hosmer-Lemeshow p-value of 0.93 indicating good model fit. CONCLUSION PMRT was utilized in 33% of those meeting NCCN criteria. Missing grade and no endocrine therapy receipt were associated with reduced likelihood of PMRT utilization. In addition to practice adjustments such as increasing hypofractionation and increasing patient access to standard oncologic testing at diagnosis could increase postmastectomy utilization.
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Clanahan JM, Reddy S, Broach RB, Rositch AF, Anderson BO, Wileyto EP, Englander BS, Brooks AD. Clinical Utility of a Hand-Held Scanner for Breast Cancer Early Detection and Patient Triage. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 6:27-34. [PMID: 32031433 PMCID: PMC6998011 DOI: 10.1200/jgo.19.00205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Globally, breast cancer represents the most common cause of cancer death among women. Early cancer diagnosis is difficult in low- and middle-income countries, most of which are unable to support population-based mammographic screening. Triage on the basis of clinical breast examination (CBE) alone can be difficult to implement. In contrast, piezo-electric palpation (intelligent Breast Exam [iBE]) may improve triage because it is portable, low cost, has a short learning curve, and provides electronic documentation for additional diagnostic workup. We compared iBE and CBE performance in a screening patient cohort from a Western mammography center. METHODS Women presenting for screening or diagnostic workup were enrolled and underwent iBE then CBE, followed by mammography. Mammography was classified as negative (BI-RADS 1 or 2) or positive (BI-RADS 3, 4, or 5). Measures of accuracy and κ score were calculated. RESULTS Between April 2015 and May 2017, 516 women were enrolled. Of these patients, 486 completed iBE, CBE, and mammography. There were 101 positive iBE results, 66 positive CBE results, and 35 positive mammograms. iBE and CBE demonstrated moderate agreement on categorization (κ = 0.53), but minimal agreement with mammography (κ = 0.08). iBE had a specificity of 80.3% and a negative predictive value of 94%. In this cohort, only five of 486 patients had a malignancy; iBE and CBE identified three of these five. The two cancers missed by both modalities were small—a 3-mm retro-areolar and a 1-cm axillary tail. CONCLUSION iBE performs comparably to CBE as a triage tool. Only minimal cancers detected through mammographic screening were missed on iBE. Ultimately, our data suggest that iBE and CBE can synergize as triage tools to significantly reduce the numbers of patients who need additional diagnostic imaging in resource-limited areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Clanahan
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sanjana Reddy
- Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Robyn B Broach
- Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Anne F Rositch
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Benjamin O Anderson
- Departments of Surgery and Global Health Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - E Paul Wileyto
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Ari D Brooks
- Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Shamsi U, Khan S, Azam I, Usman S, Maqbool A, Gill T, Iqbal R, Callen D. Patient Delay in Breast Cancer Diagnosis in Two Hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan: Preventive and Life-Saving Measures Needed. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 6:873-883. [PMID: 32579484 PMCID: PMC7328101 DOI: 10.1200/go.20.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with breast cancer in Pakistan commonly present with advanced disease. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the frequency and length of delays in seeking medical consultation and to assess the factors associated with them. METHODS Four hundred ninety-nine patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer were enrolled and interviewed over the period from February 2015 to August 2017. Information on sociodemographic factors, delay to medical consultation, stage of breast cancer at presentation, and tumor characteristics of the breast cancer were collected through face-to-face interviews and medical file review. RESULTS The mean (standard deviation) age of patients with breast cancer was 48.0 (12.3) years. The mean (standard deviation) patient delay was 15.7 (25.9) months, with 55.2% of women detecting a breast lump but not seeking a medical consultation because of a lack of awareness about the significance of the lump. A total of 9.4% of the women decided to seek treatment initially using complementary and alternative medicine and traditional treatment; 9.4% of the women presented to a health care provider with a breast lump but no action was taken, and they were wrongly reassured about the lump without mammography or biopsy. For 26% of the women, the delay in presentation was caused by anxiety, fears and misconceptions regarding diagnosis and treatment, and other social factors including possible adverse effects on their relationship with their husband. Multivariable analysis showed a strong association of lower socioeconomic status (odds ratio [OR], 8.11 [95% CI, 2.46 to 26.69]) and late stage of breast cancer (OR, 4.83 [95% CI, 1.74 to 13.39]) with a patient delay of ≥ 3 months. CONCLUSION Patient delay is a serious problem in Pakistan. There is an urgent need for intensive and comprehensive breast cancer education that addresses the myths and misconceptions related to breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uzma Shamsi
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Shaista Khan
- Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Iqbal Azam
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shaheryar Usman
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Amir Maqbool
- Department of Oncology, Karachi Institute of Radiation and Nuclear Medicine Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Tiffany Gill
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Romaina Iqbal
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - David Callen
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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