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Hunleth J, Burack S, Kaufman L, Mohrmann C, Shato T, Wiedenman E, Njelesani J. Inequities in childhood cancer research: A scoping review. EJC PAEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY 2024; 4:100171. [PMID: 38948690 PMCID: PMC11210713 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcped.2024.100171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
An integral part of understanding and then designing programs to reduce childhood cancer inequities includes adequate representation of people with cancer in research, including children. A scoping review was carried out to understand how cancer research is oriented toward inequities and to identify who has participated in childhood qualitative cancer research. A systematic search identified 119 qualitative studies that met inclusion criteria, with most studies taking place in high-income countries (n=84). Overall, data were lacking on social determinants of health at multiple levels-structural, household, child, and guardian. Only 29 studies reported on race and/or ethnicity, with the majority of those including predominantly or all white children. Six articles included socioeconomic information, and across most articles, attention was absent to the financial ramifications of cancer care. Limited reporting of sociodemographics highlights a broader issue of neglecting key demographics and social factors that contribute to inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Hunleth
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Sarah Burack
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Lindsey Kaufman
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Caroline Mohrmann
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
| | - Thembekile Shato
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
- Implementation Science Center for Cancer Control and Prevention Research Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Eric Wiedenman
- Physician Learning Program, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Janet Njelesani
- Department of Occupational Therapy, New York University, New York, USA
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Semerci R, Uysal G, Açikgöz A, Demirer P. The Predictive Power of Religious Coping on Care Burden, Depression, Stress, and Anxiety of Parents of Pediatric Oncology Patients in Turkey. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2024:10.1007/s10943-024-02096-3. [PMID: 39127992 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-024-02096-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the predictive power of religious coping of parents of children with cancer on caregiver burden, depression, anxiety, and stress in Turkey. It was designed as a descriptive and cross-sectional study, utilizing correlational analysis and regression models to explore associations between variables. Data were collected from 164 parents in the pediatric hematology-oncology clinics of a university hospital between November 2023 and March 2024. There was a negative correlation between caregiver burden score and negative and positive religious coping scores. Caregiver burden scores were positively correlated with depression, anxiety, and stress scores. Results indicated that caregiver burden, education level, employment status, family structure, family income, and age at diagnosis significantly predicted positive religious coping. For negative religious coping, caregiver burden, education level, family structure, and family income were significant predictors. This suggests that religious coping may help reduce caregiver burden, underscoring the importance of promoting constructive coping strategies to support caregivers' well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gülzade Uysal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Sakarya University of Applied Sciences, Sakarya, Turkey.
| | - Ayfer Açikgöz
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Osmangazi Eskisehir University, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Pınar Demirer
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Afungchwi GM, Waindim Y, Pondy-Ongotsoyi A, Essono J, Youwa P, Frambo A, Tayou R, Grace NM, Kengang A, Eyambe L, Farida H, Chishugi J, Kouya F, Nkegoum B. Organization of shared care networks and their role in overcoming challenges and enhancing outcomes for childhood cancer: A systematic review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024:e31245. [PMID: 39129132 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.31245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
This systematic review examines shared care networks (SCNs) in pediatric oncology as a strategic response to the healthcare challenges in low- and middle-income countries. SCNs integrate specialized hubs with local satellite centers to enhance accessibility and quality of care. Our methodology included a search of PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Scopus, selecting peer-reviewed articles from the last 20 years. We analyzed nine studies, focusing on SCN definitions, models, and outcomes. Findings reveal that SCNs improve clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction, while reducing economic and emotional burdens through standardized protocols and efficient referral systems. Despite the benefits, challenges remain in maintaining consistent care quality and communication across centers. The review underscores the need for further research to quantify benefits, examine long-term outcomes, and refine operational practices to optimize SCNs' effectiveness in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn Mbah Afungchwi
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Bamenda, Bamenda, Cameroon
- World Child Cancer, Bamenda, Camerooon
| | | | - Angele Pondy-Ongotsoyi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde 1, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, Mother and Child Center, Chantal Biya Foundation, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Justine Essono
- National Committee for the Fight Against Cancer, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Prisca Youwa
- National Committee for the Fight Against Cancer, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Nyemb Mbog Grace
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, Mother and Child Center, Chantal Biya Foundation, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Armelle Kengang
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, Mother and Child Center, Chantal Biya Foundation, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Lydia Eyambe
- Department of Oncology, Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services, Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Haoua Farida
- Department of Non-Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | - Francine Kouya
- Department of Oncology, Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services, Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Blaise Nkegoum
- National Committee for the Fight Against Cancer, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Pathology, University Teaching Hospital, University of Yaounde 1, Yaounde, Cameroon
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Pio L, Loh A, Harrison D, Gonzalez G, Qureshi S, Lakhoo K, Abib S, Abdelhafeez AH. Childhood cancer surgery in low- and middle-income countries. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024:e31238. [PMID: 39099136 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.31238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
This report summarizes the status of pediatric surgical oncology services in low- and middle-income countries. Factors such as surgical capacity and enablers, and barriers to providing pediatric surgical oncology services are discussed. A review of the literature was conducted to examine the evidence for the capacity of low- and middle-income countries to provide childhood cancer surgery services, focusing on general surgery. Unpublished, ongoing work and initiatives of international organizations are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Pio
- Paediatric Surgery Unit, Université Paris-Saclay, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Amos Loh
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and KKH Children's Blood and Cancer Centre, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Derek Harrison
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Sajid Qureshi
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Kokila Lakhoo
- Oxford Global Surgery, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Simone Abib
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Oncology Institute - GRAACC - Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Abdelhafeez H Abdelhafeez
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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Fukushima A, Hande V, Wakeham K, Barton MB, Zaghloul MS, Moreira DC, Bhakta N, Pritchard-Jones K, Sullivan M, Mazhar Qureshi B, Njiraini PN, Polo A. Estimation of the optimal radiotherapy utilization rate for childhood neuroblastoma. Radiother Oncol 2024; 197:110343. [PMID: 38806114 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2024.110343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The optimal utilization rate of radiotherapy (oRUR) serves as a benchmark for assessing service demand and improving access to cancer care. While it is estimated that approximately 50 % of adult cancer patients require external beam radiotherapy during their treatment, there is a scarcity of data regarding the optimal use of radiotherapy in pediatric cancer. In this study, we adopted an established method and developed a model to estimate the oRUR in childhood neuroblastoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS We developed a decision tree model to calculate the oRUR using indications for radiotherapy and corresponding epidemiological data collected through systematic review and meta-analysis. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of variations in radiotherapy indications between treatment protocols and variables in the model. We calculated and compared the oRUR for global, high-income, and low- and middle-income settings. RESULTS The oRUR for pediatric neuroblastoma was 64 % (95 % CI: 58 %-71 %) in the global setting, 50 % in high-income countries, and 68 % in low- and middle-income countries. The impact of variation in radiotherapy indications between major international treatment protocols was negligible. CONCLUSION The knowledge of oRUR is crucial for evaluating current practices, identifying gaps in access, and planning future radiotherapy services for treating childhood cancer. Based on our results, 64 % of children with neuroblastoma have an indication for radiotherapy. Patients in low- and middle-income countries have more indications for radiotherapy than those in high-income countries, due to a more adverse tumour stage distribution caused by limited access to healthcare resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azumi Fukushima
- Applied Radiation Biology and Radiotherapy Section, Division of Human Health, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria; Department of Health Risk Communication, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.
| | - Varsha Hande
- Applied Radiation Biology and Radiotherapy Section, Division of Human Health, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katherine Wakeham
- Applied Radiation Biology and Radiotherapy Section, Division of Human Health, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael B Barton
- Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CCORE), Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Liverpool, Australia
| | - Mohamed S Zaghloul
- National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt; Children's Cancer Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Daniel C Moreira
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, United States
| | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, United States
| | - Kathy Pritchard-Jones
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Sullivan
- Children's Cancer Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bilal Mazhar Qureshi
- Radiation Oncology Section, Department of Oncology, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Alfredo Polo
- Applied Radiation Biology and Radiotherapy Section, Division of Human Health, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
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Rujkijyanont P, Inaba H. Diagnostic and treatment strategies for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia in low- and middle-income countries. Leukemia 2024; 38:1649-1662. [PMID: 38762553 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-024-02277-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
The survival rate of children and adolescents with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common pediatric cancer, has improved significantly in high-income countries (HICs), serving as an excellent example of how humans can overcome catastrophic diseases. However, the outcomes in children with ALL in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where approximately 80% of the global population live, are suboptimal because of limited access to diagnostic procedures, chemotherapeutic agents, supportive care, and financial assistance. Although the implementation of therapeutic strategies in resource-limited countries could theoretically follow the same path of improvement as modeled in HICs, intensification of chemotherapy may simply result in increased toxicities. With the advent of genetic diagnosis, molecular targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, the management of ALL is changing dramatically in HICs. Multidisciplinary collaborations between institutions in LMICs and HICs will provide access to strategies that are suitable for institutions in LMICs, enabling them to minimize toxicities while improving outcomes. This article summarizes important aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric ALL that were mostly developed in HICs but that can be realistically implemented by institutions in countries with limited resources through resource-adapted multidisciplinary collaborations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piya Rujkijyanont
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Phramongkutklao Hospital and Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Hiroto Inaba
- Leukemia/Lymphoma Division, Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA.
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Akbarbegloo M, Sanaeefar M, Karimi M, Hoseini M. Perceived vulnerability related to health in cancer post-treated adolescent in Iran: a content analysis. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1909. [PMID: 39014390 PMCID: PMC11253466 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19404-x] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of cancer is increasing, which significantly impacts the health and various aspects of the lives of cancer-post-treated adolescents. Adolescents with cancer have many negative consequences, including increased vulnerability. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the perceived vulnerability of cancer-post-treated adolescents using a deep examination of experiences and perceptions of participants. METHODS This study was conducted on 18 participants, who were selected based on purposive sampling in 2023 using a qualitative method through a content analysis approach in Iran. A face-to-face and semi-structured individual interview was used to collect data. Inclusion criteria were children aged 11-19 years, with no history of diseases except cancer, at least one year passed since their last treatment and were aware of their disease. Inclusion criteria for other participants were Parents of childhood cancer survivors whose child is under 19 years old. Health care providers that had at least one year of experience working with and caring for pediatric cancer survivors. The research objective, participation principle, and interview recording were explained to the participants before the interview started. The criteria of credibility, dependability, confirmability and transferability were included to support the trustworthiness of data. The data was analyzed using the conventional qualitative content analysis method and MAXQDA10 software was used for data management. RESULTS The participants included 12 cancer-post-treated adolescents, two parents, two nurses, one doctor, and one cancer charity representative. The data analysis identified three categories: "Confusion in early adolescence", "Psychological turmoil of disease", and "Physical burden of the disease". Finally, the latent content was formulated in to a "Perceived vulnerability" overarching theme. CONCLUSION Identifying the patient's perceptions and beliefs is one of the current health problems to improve the quality of life and facilitate the optimal transition from adolescence to adulthood and adult care. Health professionals have an opportunity to address factors that increase survivors' sense of vulnerability to health problems by correcting knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masumeh Akbarbegloo
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran.
| | - Mahnaz Sanaeefar
- Health in Emergencies and Disasters Department, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Karimi
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Public Health, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
| | - Marzieh Hoseini
- Unit of Intervention and Implementation Research for Worker Health, Shahid Motahari Hospital, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Lin SC, Huang MC. Prevalence, trends, and specialized palliative care utilization in Taiwanese children and young adults with life-limiting conditions between 2008 and 2017: a nationwide population-based study. Arch Public Health 2024; 82:99. [PMID: 38961464 PMCID: PMC11221041 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-024-01315-3] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown a growing need for pediatric palliative care, but there is a lack of knowledge in many countries concerning prevalence of service use among children and young adults with life-limiting conditions. This study aimed to estimate (1) the annual prevalence of children and young adults with a life-limiting condition, and (2) their specialized palliative care and other healthcare utilization. METHODS Data from the Health and Welfare Data Science Center in Taiwan were used. All children and young adults aged 0-25 years recorded in inpatient or outpatient data, and infants aged < 1 year in death data with a life-limiting condition diagnostic code from 2008 to 2017 were recruited. Poisson regression was used to estimate the crude and adjusted relative risk of prevalence of life-limiting conditions with 95% confidence intervals, adjusted for age and sex, and to evaluate the trend in prevalence of each life-limiting diagnostic groups, in specialized palliative care and other service use. RESULTS Data contained 236,250 individuals with a life-limiting condition, of which oncological and congenital abnormalities were the most common. There was an annualized increase over 10 years in the prevalence of life-limiting conditions of 36.4%, from 45,311 cases (59.4 per 10,000 population) to 52,226 cases (81.0 per 10,000 population), with the highest prevalence in individuals aged 21-25 years. All diagnostic groups showed significant increases in prevalence (p < .001) with the exception of oncology, circulatory, and "other" group. Specialized palliative care services, including family consultation, shared care, home visits have increased in use over time (p < .001), while inpatient hospice has slightly decreased. The highest prevalence of healthcare use was for traditional Chinese medicine (237.1 per 1,000 population in 2017), but this decreased over time (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Due to a growing trend towards multidisciplinary care, healthcare professionals and policymakers must engage and take action to expand specialized palliative care and integrate delivery of other healthcare services. Traditional Chinese medicine having a decreasing slope, yet still the highest prevalence of use, needs further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Chun Lin
- School of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shih-Chuan 1st Rd., Sanmin Dist, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan
- Center for Long-Term Care Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chih Huang
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, East Dist., Tainan, 701401, Taiwan.
- National Tainan Junior College of Nursing, 78, Sec. 2, Minzu Rd., West Central Dist, Tainan, 700007, Taiwan.
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Chiwanga F, Woodford J, Masika G, Richards DA, Savi V, von Essen L. Examining the involvement of guardians of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Tanzania as public contributors to inform the design and conduct of the GuardiansCan project: A mixed-methods study protocol. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e70034. [PMID: 39041493 PMCID: PMC11264114 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.70034] [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: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public contribution in research can lead to the design and conduct of more feasible and relevant research. However, our understanding of the acceptability and feasibility of public contribution and the evidence base regarding its impact in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is limited. METHODS In this study protocol, we describe a mixed-method examination of public contribution activities in the GuardiansCan project. The GuardiansCan project aims to respond to Tanzanian guardians' poor adherence to children's follow-up care after treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with the help of Mobile Health technology. We aim to: (1) involve guardians of children treated for ALL as Guardians Advisory Board (GAB) members in the managing and undertaking, analysis and interpretation, and dissemination phases of the GuardiansCan project; and (2) examine the acceptability, feasibility, and perceived impact of GAB members' contribution to the GuardiansCan project from the perspective of the GAB members and public contribution coordinators. We will recruit six to eight guardians of children treated for ALL to the GAB. We will hold workshops where GAB members contribute to all project phases. Using impact logs, we will record GAB workshop activities and the perceived impact of these activities. We will interview GAB members and public contribution coordinators 6 months after establishing the GAB, and at the end of each study within the project, to examine the acceptability, feasibility, and perceived impact of public contribution activities. DISCUSSION We expect GAB contribution to increase project quality and relevance, and inform how to best embed public contribution in research in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraja Chiwanga
- Muhimbili National Hospital, Research and Consultancy UnitDar es SalaamUnited Republic of Tanzania
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e‐HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Joanne Woodford
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e‐HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Golden Masika
- Department of Clinical NursingUniversity of DodomaDodomaUnited Republic of Tanzania
| | - David A. Richards
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e‐HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
- Department of Health and Caring SciencesWestern Norway University of Applied SciencesBergenNorway
| | - Victor Savi
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e‐HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Louise von Essen
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e‐HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
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Moreira DC, Znaor A, Santana VM, Dolya A, Fox Irwin L, Bhakta N, Mery L, Steliarova-Foucher E. Expanding the Global Capacity for Childhood Cancer Registration: The ChildGICR Masterclass. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2300334. [PMID: 38905577 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE One determinant of the paucity of data on childhood cancer in low- and middle-income countries is the lack of capacity to register these cases. Combining expertise of the Global Initiative for Cancer Registry Development (GICR) and St Jude Global, we developed a ChildGICR educational program to promote data production. METHODS We first conducted a needs assessment to identify priority educational topics. Then, we designed the ChildGICR Masterclass, in which individuals with the potential to lead pediatric cancer registration were supported to prepare standard educational material. The outcomes were evaluated using qualitative and quantitative measures. RESULTS On the basis of indications by 38 GICR collaborators, we identified seven topics relevant to childhood cancer: burden description, registration principles, tumor classification, tumor staging, data quality control, data analysis, and data use. The ChildGICR Masterclass was held online in 2021 over 12 weeks. The 22 nominated participants created presentations in working groups and during live sessions. They also designed future training courses tailored to the needs of their region. Nineteen participants viewed the course experience as excellent, and 20 would continue engagement in the ChildGICR training activities. The developed material was 89% useful according to the faculty of the three online end courses, taught to 88 participants in 16 countries in 2022 and 2023. Among the 75 responding participants, 72 agreed that the learning objectives were attained and 60 were keen to engage in childhood cancer registration activities. CONCLUSION The ChildGICR Masterclass participants laid the foundation for a network of trainers. Knowledge dissemination in childhood cancer registration is the first necessary step toward evidence-based cancer control. The ChildGICR Masterclass can serve as a model to design, plan, and implement educational programs for health care professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Moreira
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Ariana Znaor
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
| | - Victor M Santana
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Anastasia Dolya
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
| | - Leeanna Fox Irwin
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
- Department of Epidemiology & Cancer Control, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Les Mery
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
| | - Eva Steliarova-Foucher
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
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Moreira DC, Garrido C, Rosado R, Girón V, Letona T, Morales G, Valverde P, Velásquez T, Alfaro J, Orellana E, Ortega MA, Salguero P, Fox Irwin L, Andujar A, de Alarcón PA, Luna-Fineman S, Manco-Johnson M, Conter V, Verna M, Canesi M, Massimino M, Spreafico F, Ferrari A, Gassant PY, Vásquez R, Friedrich P, Mack R, Ribeiro R, Metzger ML, Rodriguez-Galindo C, Antillón-Klussmann F. Impact of a Regional Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program in Guatemala. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2300474. [PMID: 38870436 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to describe and assess the regional experience of a pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship program based in Guatemala. METHODS The Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica (UNOP) in Guatemala City, Guatemala, is the only hospital in Central America dedicated exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer. To address the regional need for specialists, a fellowship program in pediatric hematology/oncology was launched in 2003. The UNOP fellowship program comprises 3 years of training. Although the program is based at UNOP, it also includes rotations locally and internationally to enhance clinical exposure. The curriculum is based on international standards to cover clinical expertise, research, professionalism, communication, and health advocacy. Trainees are selected according to country or facility-level need for pediatric hematologists/oncologists, with a plan for them to be hired immediately after completing their training. RESULTS Forty physicians from 10 countries in Latin America have completed training. In addition, there are currently 13 fellows from five countries in training. Of the graduates, 39 (98%) are now practicing in pediatric hematology/oncology in Latin America. Moreover, many of them have leadership positions within their institutions and participate in research, advocacy, and policy making. Graduates from the UNOP program contribute to institutions by providing care for an increasing number of patients with pediatric cancer. The UNOP program is the first pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship program in the world to be accredited by Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-International, an international body accrediting clinical training programs. CONCLUSION The UNOP program has trained specialists to increase the available care for children with cancer in Latin America. This regional approach to specialist training can maximize resources and serve as a model for other programs and regions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claudia Garrido
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Roy Rosado
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Verónica Girón
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Tomás Letona
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Gerson Morales
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | | | - Thelma Velásquez
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Jeanine Alfaro
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Elizabeth Orellana
- Laboratorio de Patología Dra. Elizabeth Orellana, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | | | - Paola Salguero
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | | | | | | | - Sandra Luna-Fineman
- Children's Hospital Colorado, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, IL
| | - Marilyn Manco-Johnson
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/SCT, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, IL
| | - Valentino Conter
- Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, IL
| | - Marta Verna
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Marta Canesi
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Maura Massimino
- Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Ferrari
- Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Ricardo Mack
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
- Hospital Nacional de Niños Benjamin Bloom, San Salvador, El Salvador
| | - Raul Ribeiro
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | | | | | - Federico Antillón-Klussmann
- Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
- Hospital Nacional de Niños Benjamin Bloom, San Salvador, El Salvador
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12
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Wang MJ, Dzifa KL, Lei J, Kan X, Zhang RX. The experiences of children and adolescents with cancer returning to school: A qualitative meta-synthesis. J Pediatr Nurs 2024; 76:140-149. [PMID: 38402745 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2024.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Returning to school can be challenging for children and adolescents with cancer who have been absent for a long time. As there is little known about the return to school experience of children and adolescents with cancer, this meta-synthesis aimed to describe the experiences of children and adolescent cancer patients as they return to school. METHODS Seven English databases and three Chinese databases were searched from inception to March 14, 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-QARI) was used to appraise study quality. Data were synthesized using the Thomas and Harden thematic and content analysis method. RESULTS Twelve qualitative studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed into meta-synthesis. Data synthesis led to constructing four analytical themes and twelve sub-themes. The four major themes constructed were:benefits to school re-entry, barriers to school re-entry, motivators to school re-entry and the adaptation process after returning to school. CONCLUSION Children and adolescents with cancer were willing to return to education and can adapt to school life over time. But they were faced with challenges, including physical, psychological, and social barriers. Appropriate measures need to be taken to reduce those barriers. IMPLICATIONS TO PRACTICE Findings can be used to inform future research and interventions to support a successful return to education for children and adolescents with cancer. Healthcare providers should address the needs of children and adolescents at different stages and actively work with schools, hospitals and families to help childhood cancer survivors successfully return to school.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Jia Wang
- College of Nursing and health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kodzo Lalit Dzifa
- College of Nursing and health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jinjin Lei
- College of Nursing and health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaodi Kan
- College of Nursing and health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Rui-Xing Zhang
- College of Nursing and health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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13
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Briercheck E, Pyle D, Adams C, Atun R, Booth C, Dent J, Garcia-Gonzalez P, Ilbawi A, Jazieh AR, Kerr D, Knaul F, Kobayashi E, Lim C, Maza M, Milner D, Navarro MF, O'Brien M, Rodriguez-Galindo C, Sullivan R, Torode J, Vokes E, Gralow J. Unification of Efforts to Improve Global Access to Cancer Therapeutics: Report From the 2022/2023 Access to Essential Cancer Medicines Stakeholder Summit. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2300256. [PMID: 38781548 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE There is an urgent need to improve access to cancer therapy globally. Several independent initiatives have been undertaken to improve access to cancer medicines, and additional new initiatives are in development. Improved sharing of experiences and increased collaboration are needed to achieve substantial improvements in global access to essential oncology medicines. METHODS The inaugural Access to Essential Cancer Medicines Stakeholder Meeting was organized by ASCO and convened at the June 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago, IL, with two subsequent meetings, Union for International Cancer Control World Cancer Congress held in Geneva, Switzerland, in October 2022 and at the ASCO Annual Meeting in June of 2023. Invited stakeholders included representatives from cancer institutes, physicians, researchers, professional societies, the pharmaceutical industry, patient advocacy organizations, funders, cancer organizations and foundations, policy makers, and regulatory bodies. The session was moderated by ASCO. Past efforts and current and upcoming initiatives were initially discussed (2022), updates on progress were provided (2023), and broad agreement on resulting action steps was achieved with participants. RESULTS Summit participants recognized that while much work was ongoing to enhance access to cancer therapeutics globally, communication and synergy across projects and organizations could be enhanced by providing a platform for collaboration and shared expertise. CONCLUSION The summit resulted in new cross-stakeholder insights and planned collaboration addressing barriers to accessing cancer medications. Specific actions and timelines for implementation and reporting were established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Briercheck
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Doug Pyle
- American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, VA
| | - Cary Adams
- Union for International Cancer Control, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rifat Atun
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University, Boston, MA
| | - Christopher Booth
- Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | | | | | - Andre Ilbawi
- Cancer Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - David Kerr
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Felicia Knaul
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | | | | | | | - Danny Milner
- Union for International Cancer Control, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Richard Sullivan
- Institute of Cancer Policy, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Torode
- Institute of Cancer Policy, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Everett Vokes
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Julie Gralow
- American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, VA
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14
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Force LM, Hlatywayo L, Salek M, Bhakta M, Bonilla M, Kaye EC, Rodriguez-Galindo C, Baker JN, Bhakta N, Chitsike I. Understanding treatment recommendations at diagnosis of advanced cancer in pediatric oncology: The need to explore decision-making challenges globally. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e30854. [PMID: 38233986 PMCID: PMC10922856 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Force
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Loyce Hlatywayo
- Parirenyatwa Hospital and University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Marta Salek
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Manoo Bhakta
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Miguel Bonilla
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Erica C. Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Justin N. Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Inam Chitsike
- Parirenyatwa Hospital and University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Salifu N, Segbefia CI, Alhassan Y, Renner LA, Tette EMA. Short-term chemotherapy-related complications and undernutrition in children diagnosed with cancer at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana: A prospective cohort study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301208. [PMID: 38547211 PMCID: PMC10977704 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Undernutrition in children with cancer is associated with complications during cancer therapy. The study objective was to determine the association between specific anthropometric parameters and short-term chemotherapy-related complications and mortality. This was a hospital-based, prospective cohort study of children, age ≤12 years, with a new cancer diagnosis at the Paediatric Oncology Unit, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Socio-demographic information, cancer characteristics and anthropometric measurements were obtained at enrolment. Participants were followed up for twelve weeks from commencement of chemotherapy and selected treatment-related complications such as anaemia and thrombocytopenia requiring transfusions, prolonged neutropenia resulting in treatment delays, febrile neutropenia, mucositis and death were recorded. A total of 133 participants were recruited with a median age of 4.5 years. Eighty-one (60.9%) were diagnosed with solid tumours, 31 (23.3%) had leukaemias and 21 (15.8%) had lymphomas. Of the anthropometric parameters assessed, only arm anthropometry using upper arm muscle area (UAMA) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) were associated with complications. Participants with wasting were more likely to develop anaemia and mucositis. However, the incidence of prolonged neutropenia was significantly higher among participants with average UAMA (p = 0.043) and low average UAMA (p = 0.049) compared to those with low UAMA. Risk of neutropenia was also significantly less among those with wasting by MUAC compared to those well-nourished (p = 0.045). Twenty-three participants (17.3%) died with a greater proportion (11/44; 25%) occurring in those who were wasted using MUAC. These findings underscore the need for nutritional surveillance at diagnosis and during chemotherapy, particularly where co-morbid disease is prevalent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihad Salifu
- Department of Paediatrics, Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Yakubu Alhassan
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lorna A. Renner
- Department of Child Health, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Edem M. A. Tette
- Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
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16
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Joseph AO, Akinsete AM, Ajose AO, Oladipo AT, Maliki A, Akindele K, Mangongolo M, Adeneye S, Ngwa W. Increasing pediatric radiation oncology capacity in sub-saharan Africa using technology: a pilot of a pediatric radiation oncology virtual training course. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:317. [PMID: 38509515 PMCID: PMC10956173 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05313-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The shortage of skilled healthcare professionals in pediatric oncology and the limited access to training programs remain significant challenges in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. The the Pediatric Radiation Oncology (Virtual) Course, 'PedROC' project aims to contribute to improving pediatric cancer outcomes in Nigeria by increasing the capacity of radiation oncology professionals. To address the gap in access to pediatric radiation oncology professional development, the PedROC project was created, harnessing technology to improve radiation oncology training via a curriculum delivered through web-conferencing. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the PedROC pilot in enhancing the capacity, confidence, and skill of radiation oncologists in decision-making, prescribing, and treatment planning of radiotherapy for children diagnosed with cancer. METHODS A multidisciplinary faculty of specialists in radiation oncology, pediatric oncology, oncology nursing, radiation therapy technology, and medical physics collaborated to identify the key learning needs in pediatric radiation oncology in the country. The team collaborated to develop a comprehensive curriculum covering the most common pediatric cancers in sub-Saharan Africa for the training program. The training course was conducted over two days, delivering twenty-four half-hour sessions for a total of 12 h, from July 31 to August 01, 2021. RESULTS Analysis of pre and post - training surveys showed a significant increase in self-reported confidence measures across all domains among radiation oncologists. The program successfully improved participants' knowledge and confidence levels in managing common pediatric cancers using radiotherapy, particularly addressing radiotherapy-specific issues such as appropriate dose, target volume delineation, treatment planning, dose constraints, and plan evaluation. CONCLUSION The PedROC pilot showed the efficacy of this model in enhancing the capacity and confidence of radiation oncology professionals involved in the treatment of pediatric cancer. The findings indicate that technology holds significant potential to increase pediatric radiation oncology capacity in Africa, ensuring improved access to proper treatment and ultimately improving pediatric cancer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adedayo O Joseph
- NSIA - LUTH Cancer Centre, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria.
| | - Adeseye M Akinsete
- Hematology & Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Azeezat O Ajose
- NSIA - LUTH Cancer Centre, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Aishat T Oladipo
- NSIA - LUTH Cancer Centre, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Michelle Mangongolo
- NSIA - LUTH Cancer Centre, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Samuel Adeneye
- NSIA - LUTH Cancer Centre, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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17
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Marfo M, Acheampong AK, Asare C. Financial burden faced by breastfeeding mothers caring for children diagnosed with cancer in Ghana; an exploratory qualitative study. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:177. [PMID: 38486146 PMCID: PMC10938724 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02931-5] [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: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When children are diagnosed of cancer, parents face varied financial issues. Among some of the identifiable factors that cause financial challenges among breastfeeding mothers include the high cost of childhood cancer care. The high cost of childhood cancer care could impede the sustainability of access to prompt care. There is paucity of literature on the financial burdens faced by breastfeeding mothers with children diagnosed with cancer in Ghana. Therefore, this study sought to explore the financial burden faced by mothers with breastfeeding children diagnosed with cancer. METHODS The study employed qualitative exploratory descriptive design. One-on-one interviews were conducted among 13 mothers with breastfeeding children diagnosed of cancer. Permission was sought for data to be recorded, transcribed concurrently and inductive content analysis done. RESULTS Three main themes emerged after data analysis: High cost (sub-themes; expensive medications, laboratory investigation fees, and cost of mothers' feeding), Public support (sub-themes; appeal for funds, national health insurance scheme) and Self-financing (loans, personal savings). Most of the breastfeeding mothers narrated that high cost of childhood cancer care generated financial distress to them. They shared that the cost involved in purchasing their children's cancer medications, paying for laboratory investigations and feeding themselves to produce adequate breastmilk to feed their children were challenging. Some of the mothers self-financed the cost of their children's cancer care through loans and personal savings. CONCLUSION Government and other stakeholders should allocate annual budget and funds towards childhood cancer care to lessen the financial burden breastfeeding mothers caring for children with cancer experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Marfo
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wisconsin International University College-Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Comfort Asare
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wisconsin International University College-Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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18
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Agulnik A, Nogovitsyna Y, Kizyma R, Yakimkova T, Vivtcharenko V, Bhakta N, Wise PH, Rodriguez-Galindo C, Kacharian A. Strategies to promote sustainable care for children with cancer in Ukraine. Lancet Oncol 2024; 25:285-288. [PMID: 38307103 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(23)00577-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Asya Agulnik
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA; Division of Critical Care, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| | | | - Roman Kizyma
- Western Ukrainian Specialized Children's Medical Center, Lviv, Ukraine; Clinical Center for Children's Healthcare, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Taisiya Yakimkova
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | | | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Paul H Wise
- Department of Pediatrics, Department of Health Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
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19
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Wilson ML, Horton S, Fleming KA. A World Health Assembly resolution on diagnostics: what pathologists should know and do. Histopathology 2024; 84:587-588. [PMID: 38318658 DOI: 10.1111/his.15049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Wilson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Services, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Susan Horton
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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20
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Siddiqui AK, Belgaumi AF. Paediatric oncology in the Eastern Mediterranean region (EMR): the current state and challenges. Ecancermedicalscience 2024; 18:1677. [PMID: 38439809 PMCID: PMC10911667 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2024.1677] [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: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The WHO Eastern Mediterranean region (EMR) is characterised by highly economically diverse countries, with healthcare systems in various phases of development. Childhood cancer care provision also ranges from that provided in centres able to deliver sophisticated therapy resulting in outcomes comparable to those seen in highly developed nations, to countries with no provision for care of children with cancer. At 10·1 per 100,000 children at risk, the age standardised incidence-rate for cancer in children below 14 years of age is relatively low but may be consequent to poor registration. Shortages in trained care providers were identified in many regional countries, particularly in low and lower-middle income countries, however, implementation of training programs are beginning to counter this deficit. Significant diversity in patient care capacity exists in the region, leading to inequitable access to quality paediatric oncology care. There is strong potential for regional collaboration towards infrastructure and capacity improvement, with facilities available within the EMR for twinning and educational support to those centres and countries that need them. While cancer care coverage is available to citizens of high-income countries, in the lower-income countries out-of-pocket health expenditure can reach 75%. Some relief is achieved through the contribution of multiple charitable foundations working to support childhood cancer care in the region, as well as the provision of care in, often overburdened, public sector hospitals. War and other geo-political turmoil, as well as natural disasters, have negatively impacted healthcare capacity, including childhood cancer care, in several regional countries. Despite all this, the trajectory for change is upward and initiatives such as the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer are igniting positive change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsalan Kabir Siddiqui
- All authors have contributed to this manuscript and take responsibility for its contents
| | - Asim Fakhruddin Belgaumi
- All authors have contributed to this manuscript and take responsibility for its contents
- https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0135-7509
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Bolous NS, Mercredi P, Bonilla M, Friedrich P, Bhakta N, Metzger ML, Gassant PY. Determining the cost and cost-effectiveness of childhood cancer treatment in Haiti. Ecancermedicalscience 2024; 18:1675. [PMID: 38439808 PMCID: PMC10911665 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2024.1675] [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: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Haiti is a low-income country with one of the lowest human development index rankings in the world. Its childhood cancer services are provided by a single hospital with the only dedicated paediatric oncology department in the country. Our objective was to assess the cost and cost-effectiveness of all types of childhood cancer in Haiti to help prioritise investments and to support national cancer control planning. All costing data were collected from the year 2017 or 2018 hospital records. Costs were classified into 11 cost categories, and the proportion of the overall budget represented by each was calculated and converted from Haitian Gourde to United States dollars. The 5-year survival rate was retrieved from hospital records and used to calculate the cost-effectiveness of disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted, using a healthcare costing perspective. Additional sensitivity analyses were conducted accounting for late-effect morbidity and early mortality and discounting rates of 0%, 3% and 6%. The annual cost of operating a paediatric oncology unit in Haiti treating 74 patients with newly diagnosed cancer was $803,184 overall or $10,854 per patient. The largest cost category was pharmacy, constituting 25% of the overall budget, followed by medical personnel (20%) and administration (12%). The cost per DALY averted in the base-case scenario was $1,128, which is 76% of the gross domestic product per capita, demonstrating that treating children with cancer in Haiti is very cost-effective according to the World Health Organisation Choosing Interventions that are Cost-Effective (WHO-CHOICE) threshold. In the most conservative scenario, the cost per DALY averted was cost-effective by WHO-CHOICE criteria. Our data will add to the growing body of literature illustrating a positive return on investment associated with diagnosing and treating children with cancer in even the most resource-limited environments. We anticipate that these data will aid local stakeholders and policymakers when identifying cancer control priorities and making budgetary decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy S Bolous
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | | | - Miguel Bonilla
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Paola Friedrich
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | | | - Pascale Y Gassant
- Nos Petit Frères et Sœurs-St Damien Hospital, Port-au-Prince 6124, Haiti
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Soliman R, Bolous N, Heneghan C, Oke J, Boylan AM, Eweida W, Abouelnaga S, Elhaddad A. An overview of childhood cancer care and outcomes in Egypt: a narrative review. Ecancermedicalscience 2024; 18:1676. [PMID: 38439811 PMCID: PMC10911675 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2024.1676] [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: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Childhood cancer is an urgent priority in Egypt, owing to a large number of children with cancer, the great need and demand for paediatric oncology services, limited resources/funds and inferior survival outcomes. Therefore, an overview of the status of childhood cancer care in Egypt and an evidence-based approach towards optimal utilisation of resources/funds to improve this care are needed. This paper summarises key evidence about childhood cancer care and outcomes in Egypt. We conducted a narrative literature review using a structured search strategy of the MEDLINE database through the PubMed interface. All relevant evidence was summarised under five main sub-topics: (1) burden of childhood cancer in Egypt; (2) treatment approaches; (3) health outcomes; (4) costs and cost-effectiveness of treatment; and (5) barriers and facilitators to optimal childhood cancer care. We found high estimates of disease burden of childhood cancer in Egypt. Furthermore, childhood cancer treatment in Egypt is based on either implementing intensity-regulated protocols or adopting international protocols with or without adaptations to local contexts, leading to varying standards of care among the different treating centres. Limited data about the survival outcomes, costs and cost-effectiveness of treatment exist, although high-quality data from retrospective cohort studies were published from a large paediatric oncology centre (Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt-57357). As Egypt joins the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancers as a focus country, it is prepared to move towards streamlining national efforts to implement a national childhood cancer plan to advance care, improve health outcomes and optimise resource use. Through these efforts, Egypt could become a beacon of hope and a role model to other low- and middle-income countries seeking to improve their childhood cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranin Soliman
- Health Economics and Value Unit, Children’s Cancer Hospital 57357 Egypt (CCHE), Cairo 4260102, Egypt
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, University of Oxford, OX1 2JD Oxford, UK
- Co-first authors
| | - Nancy Bolous
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
- Co-first authors
| | - Carl Heneghan
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, OX1 2JD Oxford, UK
| | - Jason Oke
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, OX1 2JD Oxford, UK
| | - Anne-Marie Boylan
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, OX1 2JD Oxford, UK
| | - Wael Eweida
- Chief Operating Office, Children’s Cancer Hospital 57357 Egypt (CCHE), Cairo 4260102, Egypt
| | - Sherif Abouelnaga
- Chief Executive Office, Children’s Cancer Hospital 57357 Egypt (CCHE), Cairo 4260102, Egypt
- Paediatric Oncology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11796, Egypt
| | - Alaa Elhaddad
- Paediatric Oncology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11796, Egypt
- Paediatric Oncology Department, Children’s Cancer Hospital 57357 Egypt (CCHE), Cairo 4260102, Egypt
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Ramirez O, Piedrahita V, Ardila J, Pardo C, Cabrera-Bernal E, Lopera J, Suarez A, Portilla CA, Narváez C, Rodriguez P, Castro X, Castro Á, Estupinan-Perico DI, Valencia D, Álvarez MDR, Fox JE, Bravo LE, Aristizabal P. Primary central nervous system tumors survival in children in ten Colombian cities: a VIGICANCER report. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1326788. [PMID: 38505512 PMCID: PMC10949889 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1326788] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the second most common cancer in children and adolescents, leading to premature death and disability. Population-based survival estimates aid decision-making in cancer control, however data on survival for primary CNS tumors in Latin America is lacking. We describe survival rates for children with primary CNS tumors treated in ten Colombian cities. Methods We analyzed data from children and adolescents newly diagnosed with cancer between 2012 and 2021, participating in the Childhood Cancer Clinical Outcomes Surveillance System (VIGICANCER) in ten cities in Colombia. VIGICANCER collects information on clinical outcomes from twenty-seven pediatric oncology units and conducts active follow-up every three months. VIGICANCER does not register craniopharyngiomas; we excluded intracranial germ cell tumors for this report. We used the Kaplan-Meier method to estimate the overall survival probability, stratified by sociodemographic variables, topography, WHO grading, receipt of radiation therapy, and type of surgical resection. We analyzed the prognostic capacity of variables using multivariate proportional Cox's regression, stratified by city and year of diagnosis. Results During the study period, VIGICANCER included 989 primary CNS tumors in 879 children and 110 adolescents. The cohort median age was 9 years; 53% of patients were males, and 8% were Afro-descendants. Most common tumors were supratentorial astrocytomas (47%), astrocytic tumors (35%), medulloblastomas (20%), ependymomas (11%), and mixed and unspecified gliomas (10%). Five-year overall survival of the entire cohort was 54% (95% CI, 51-58); for supratentorial gliomas, WHO grade I was 77%, II was 62%, III-IV was 27%, respectively, and for medulloblastoma was 61%. The adjusted hazard rate ratio for patients with WHO grade III and IV, for those with subtotal resection, for brainstem location, and for those not receiving radiation therapy was 7.4 (95% CI, 4.7-11.8), 6.4 (95% CI, 4.2-9.8), 2.8 (95% 2.1-3.8), 2.0 (95% CI, 1.3-2.8) and 2.3 (95% CI, 1.7-3.0), respectively. Conclusion We found that half of Colombia's children and adolescents with primary CNS tumors survive five years, compared to 70% to 80% in high-income countries. In addition to tumor biology and location, gross total resection was crucial for improved survival in this cohort. Systematic monitoring of survival and its determinants provides empirical data for guiding cancer control policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Ramirez
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Clínica Imbanaco – Grupo Quirón Salud, Cali, Colombia
- Registro Poblacional de Cáncer de Cali – Departamento de Patología, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Vivian Piedrahita
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Clínica Imbanaco – Grupo Quirón Salud, Cali, Colombia
- Escuela de Enfermería, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Jesus Ardila
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Clínica Imbanaco – Grupo Quirón Salud, Cali, Colombia
| | - Carlos Pardo
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Hospital de la Misericordia (HOMI) Fundación Hospital Pediátrico la Misericordia, Bogotá, Colombia
- Grupo de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Edgar Cabrera-Bernal
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Hospital de la Misericordia (HOMI) Fundación Hospital Pediátrico la Misericordia, Bogotá, Colombia
- Grupo de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - John Lopera
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Amaranto Suarez
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carlos Andrés Portilla
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Clínica Imbanaco – Grupo Quirón Salud, Cali, Colombia
- Departamento de Pediatría, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Carlos Narváez
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Clínica Imbanaco – Grupo Quirón Salud, Cali, Colombia
- Departamento de Pediatría, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Pamela Rodriguez
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Fundación Valle del Lili, Cali, Colombia
| | - Ximena Castro
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Fundación Valle del Lili, Cali, Colombia
| | - Ángel Castro
- Departamento de Pediatría, Universidad de Cartagena, Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Clínica Blas de Lezo, Cartagena, Colombia
| | | | - Diana Valencia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica: Instituto Médico de Alta Tecnología (IMAT) Oncomédica, Montería, Colombia
| | - María del Rosario Álvarez
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Hospital Infantil Los Ángeles, Pasto, Colombia
| | - Javier Enrique Fox
- Unidad de Oncología y Hematología Pediátrica, Fundación San Vicente de Paul, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Luis Eduardo Bravo
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación Pediatras Oncólogos y Hematólogos (POHEMA), Cali, Colombia
- Registro Poblacional de Cáncer de Cali – Departamento de Patología, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Paula Aristizabal
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Population Sciences, Disparities and Community Engagement, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Dissemination and Implementation Science Center, Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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de Paula Silva N, Colombet M, Moreno F, Erdmann F, Dolya A, Piñeros M, Stiller CA, Steliarova-Foucher E. Incidence of childhood cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean: coverage, patterns, and time trends. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2024; 48:e11. [PMID: 38410357 PMCID: PMC10896122 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2024.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To provide a comprehensive overview of geographical patterns (2001-2010) and time trends (1993-2012) of cancer incidence in children aged 0-19 years in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and interpret the findings in the context of global patterns. Methods Geographical variations in 2001-2010 and incidence trends over 1993-2012 in the population of LAC younger than 20 years were described using the database of the third volume of the International Incidence of Childhood Cancer study containing comparable data. Age-specific incidence per million person-years (ASR) was calculated for population subgroups and age-standardized (WSR) using the world standard population. Results Overall, 36 744 unique cases were included in this study. In 2001-2010 the overall WSR in age 0-14 years was 132.6. The most frequent were leukemia (WSR 48.7), central nervous system neoplasms (WSR 23.0), and lymphoma (WSR 16.6). The overall ASR in age group 15-19 years was 152.3 with lymphoma ranking first (ASR 30.2). Incidence was higher in males than in females, and higher in South America than in Central America and the Caribbean. Compared with global data LAC incidence was lower overall, except for leukemia and lymphoma at age 0-14 years and the other and unspecified tumors at any age. Overall incidence at age 0-19 years increased by 1.0% per year (95% CI [0.6, 1.3]) over 1993-2012. The included registries covered 16% of population aged 0-14 years and 10% of population aged 15-19 years. Conclusions The observed patterns provide a baseline to assess the status and evolution of childhood cancer occurrence in the region. Extended and sustained support of cancer registration is required to improve representativeness and timeliness of data for childhood cancer control in LAC.
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Nabukalu D, Gordon LG, Lowe J, Merollini KMD. Healthcare costs of cancer among children, adolescents, and young adults: A scoping review. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e6925. [PMID: 38214042 PMCID: PMC10905233 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6925] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To collate and critically review international evidence on the direct health system costs of children and adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer. METHODS We conducted searches in PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Scopus. Articles were limited to studies involving people aged 0-39 years at cancer diagnosis and published from 2012 to 2022. Two reviewers screened the articles and evaluated the studies using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards checklist. The reviewers synthesized the findings using a narrative approach and presented the costs in 2022 US dollars for comparability. RESULTS Overall, the mean healthcare costs for all cancers in the 5 years post diagnosis ranged from US$36,670 among children in Korea to US$127,946 among AYA in the USA. During the first year, the mean costs among children 0-14 years ranged from US$34,953 in Chile to over US$130,000 in Canada. These were higher than the costs for AYA, estimated at US$61,855 in Canada. At the end of life, the mean costs were estimated at over US$300,000 among children and US$235,265 among adolescents in Canada. Leukemia was the most expensive cancer type, estimated at US$50,133 in Chile, to US$152,533 among children in Canada. Overall, more than a third of the total cost is related to hospitalizations. All the included studies were of good quality. CONCLUSIONS Healthcare costs associated with cancer are substantial among children, and AYA. More research is needed on the cost of cancer in low- and middle-income countries and harmonization of costs across countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Nabukalu
- School of HealthUniversity of the Sunshine CoastSippy DownsQueenslandAustralia
- Population Health ProgramQIMR Berghofer Medical Research InstituteHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Louisa G. Gordon
- Population Health ProgramQIMR Berghofer Medical Research InstituteHerstonQueenslandAustralia
- School of NursingQueensland University of TechnologyKelvin GroveQueenslandAustralia
- School of Public HealthThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - John Lowe
- School of HealthUniversity of the Sunshine CoastSippy DownsQueenslandAustralia
| | - Katharina M. D. Merollini
- School of HealthUniversity of the Sunshine CoastSippy DownsQueenslandAustralia
- Sunshine Coast Health InstituteSunshine Coast University HospitalBirtinyaQueenslandAustralia
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26
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Bustamante-Ogando JC, Hernández-López A, Galván-Díaz C, Rivera-Luna R, Fuentes-Bustos HE, Meneses-Acosta A, Olaya-Vargas A. Childhood leukemias in Mexico: towards implementing CAR-T cell therapy programs. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1304805. [PMID: 38304036 PMCID: PMC10833104 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1304805] [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: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Leukemias are the most common type of pediatric cancer around the world. Prognosis has improved during the last decades, and many patients are cured with conventional treatment as chemotherapy; however, many patients still present with a refractory disease requiring additional treatments, including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies or cellular therapy is a promising strategy for treating refractory or relapsed hematological malignancies. Particularly, CAR-T cells have shown clinical efficacy in clinical trials, and different products are now commercially approved by regulatory agencies in the USA and Europe. Many challenges still need to be solved to improve and optimize the potential of these therapies worldwide. Global access to cell therapy is a significant concern, and different strategies are being explored in the middle- and low-income countries. In Mexico, leukemias represent around 50% of total cancer diagnosed in pediatric patients, and the rate of relapsed or refractory disease is higher than reported in other countries, a multi-factorial problem. Although significant progress has been made during the last decades in leukemia diagnosis and treatment, making new therapies available to Mexican patients is a priority, and cell and gene therapies are on the horizon. Efforts are ongoing to make CAR-T cell therapy accessible for patients in Mexico. This article summarizes a general landscape of childhood leukemias in Mexico, and we give a perspective about the current strategies, advances, and challenges ahead to make gene and cell therapies for leukemia clinically available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Bustamante-Ogando
- Immunodeficiencies Research Laboratory and Clinical Immunology Department, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alejandrina Hernández-López
- Laboratorio 7 Biotecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
- Consejo Nacional de Humanidades Ciencias y Tecnologías, CONAHCYT, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - César Galván-Díaz
- Oncology Department, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Hugo E. Fuentes-Bustos
- Laboratorio 7 Biotecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Angélica Meneses-Acosta
- Laboratorio 7 Biotecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Alberto Olaya-Vargas
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Cell Therapy Program, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Mexico City, Mexico
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Friedrich P, Mercado N, Echeandia-Abud N, Guerrero-Gomez K, González-Zamorano M, López-Ruíz MI, Portillo-Zavala CS, García-Segura LD, Reynoso-Gutiérrez M, López-Facundo NA, Cárdenas-Pedraza D, Valois-Escamilla MG, Mera-González AB, Covarrubias-Zapata D, Vollbrechtshausen-Castelán LA, Loeza-Oliva JDJ, Garay-Sánchez SA, Moreno-Serrano J, Mendoza-Sánchez P, Casillas-Toral P, Sandoval-Cabrera A, Gutiérrez-Martínez I, Jiménez-Osorio MI, Arce-Cabrera D, Aguilar-Escobar DV, González-Montalvo PM, Romo-Rubio HA. Securing access to a comprehensive diagnostic panel for children with suspected acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Results from the Mexico in Alliance with St. Jude "Bridge Project". Front Oncol 2024; 13:1286278. [PMID: 38288107 PMCID: PMC10824571 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1286278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The "Bridge Project" is a Mexico in Alliance with St. Jude (MAS) initiative developed in 2019 to improve access, accuracy, and timeliness of specialized diagnostic studies for patients with suspected acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The project strategy relies on service centralization to improve service delivery, biological characterization, risk-group classification, and support proper treatment allocation. Methods This is an ongoing prospective multisite intersectoral quality improvement (QI) project available to all patients 0-18 years of age presenting with suspected ALL to the 14 actively participating institutions in 12 Mexican states. Institutions send specimens to one centralized laboratory. From a clinical standpoint, the project secures access to a consensus-derived comprehensive diagnostic panel. From a service delivery standpoint, we assess equity, timeliness, effectiveness, and patient-centeredness. From an implementation science standpoint, we document feasibility, utility, and appropriateness of the diagnostic panel and centralized approach. This analysis spans from July 2019 to June 2023. Results 612 patients have accessed the project. The median age was 6 years (IQR 3-11), and 53% were males. 94% of the specimens arrived within 48 hours, which documents the feasibility of the centralized model, and 100% of the patients received precise and timely diagnostic results, which documents the effectiveness of the approach. Of 505 (82.5%) patients with confirmed ALL, 463/505 (91.6%) had B-cell ALL, and 42/505 (8.3%) had T-cell ALL. High-hyperdiploidy was detected by DNA index in 36.6% and hypodiploidy in 1.6%. 76.6% of the patients had conclusive karyotype results. FISH studies showed t(12;21) in 15%, iAMP21 in 8.5%, t(1;19) in 7.5%, t(4;11) in 4.2%, t(9;22) in 3.2%, del(9)(p21) in 1.8%, and TRA/D (14)(q11.2) rearrangement in 2.4%. Among B-cell ALL patients, 344/403 (85.1%) had Day 15 MRD<1% and 261/305 (85.6%) Day 84 MRD<0.01. For T-cell ALL patients 20/28 (71.4%) had Day 29 MRD<0.01% and 19/22 (86.4%) Day 84 MRD<0.01%. Conclusions By securing access to a standardized consensus-derived diagnostic panel, the Bridge Project has allowed better characterization of childhood ALL in Mexico while producing unprecedented service improvements and documenting key implementation outcomes. We are using these results to inform iterative changes to the diagnostic panel and an associated treatment guideline (MAS-ALL18).
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Friedrich
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Nataly Mercado
- Casa de la Amistad para Niños con Cáncer, Institución de Asistencia Privada, I.A.P., Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Naomi Echeandia-Abud
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Karla Guerrero-Gomez
- Casa de la Amistad para Niños con Cáncer, Institución de Asistencia Privada, I.A.P., Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Margarita González-Zamorano
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital General con Especialidades “Juan María de Salvatierra”, La Paz, Mexico
| | - Mayra Ivette López-Ruíz
- Pediatric Oncology Department, Hospital de Especialidades Pediátricas, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Norma Araceli López-Facundo
- Pediatric Oncology Department, Hospital Materno Infantil del Instituto de Seguridad Social del Estado de México y Municipios, Toluca, Mexico
| | - Daniela Cárdenas-Pedraza
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital para el Niño del Instituto Materno Infantil del Estado de México, Toluca de Lerdo, Mexico
| | | | - Alma Beatriz Mera-González
- Hematology Department, Hospital del Niño Desarrollo Integral de la Familia (DIF) Hidalgo, Pachuca de Soto, Mexico
| | - Daniela Covarrubias-Zapata
- Pediatric Oncology Department, Centro Estatal de Oncología “Dr. Luis González Francis”, Campeche, Mexico
| | | | - José de Jesús Loeza-Oliva
- Pediatric Oncology Department, Centro Estatal de Cancerología “Dr. Miguel Dorantes Mesa”, Xalapa, Mexico
| | | | - Julio Moreno-Serrano
- Diagnostic and Bood Bank Department, Hospital Infantil Teletón de Oncología, Querétaro, Mexico
| | | | - Paola Casillas-Toral
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Civil de Guadalajara “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca”, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Antonio Sandoval-Cabrera
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital para el Niño del Instituto Materno Infantil del Estado de México, Toluca de Lerdo, Mexico
| | - Itzel Gutiérrez-Martínez
- Pediatric Oncology Department, Hospital Infantil de Morelia "Eva Sámano de López Mateos", Morelia, Mexico
| | | | - Daniela Arce-Cabrera
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Pediátrico de Sinaloa, Culiacán, Mexico
| | | | | | - Hugo Antonio Romo-Rubio
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Civil de Guadalajara “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca”, Guadalajara, Mexico
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Wong KA, Moskalewicz A, Nathan PC, Gupta S, Denburg A. Physical late effects of treatment among survivors of childhood cancer in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-023-01517-8. [PMID: 38183576 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01517-8] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Physical late effects of treatment are well-documented among childhood cancer survivors in high-income countries, but whether prevalence and risk factors are comparable in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is unclear. We conducted a systematic review to assess physical late effect outcomes among childhood cancer survivors in LMICs. METHODS Five health sciences databases were searched from inception to November 2022 in all languages. We included observational studies conducted in LMICs that evaluated physical late effects of treatment in childhood cancer survivors. Mean or median cohort follow-up must have been ≥ 5 years from original cancer diagnosis. RESULTS Sixteen full articles and five conference abstracts were included. Studies were conducted in lower-middle (n = 12, 57%) or upper-middle income (n = 9, 43%) countries; nearly half (n = 9, 43%) were conducted in India. Five cohorts (24%) were comprised entirely of 5-year survivors. Subsequent malignant neoplasms were reported in 0-11% of survivors (n = 10 studies). Hypothyroidism and metabolic syndrome prevalence ranged from 2-49% (n = 4 studies) and 4-17% (n = 5 studies), respectively. Gonadal dysfunction ranged from 3-47% (n = 4 studies). Cardiac dysfunction ranged from 1-16% (n = 3 studies). Late effects of the musculoskeletal and urinary systems were least investigated. CONCLUSIONS Substantial knowledge gaps exist in LMIC childhood cancer survivorship. No low-income country data were found. In middle-income countries, late effects were defined and assessed variably and limited by selection bias and small sample sizes. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Survivors in LMICs can experience physical late effects of treatment, though additionally systematically collected data from survivor cohorts are needed to fill knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin A Wong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | | | - Paul C Nathan
- The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Sumit Gupta
- The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Avram Denburg
- The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 1X8, Canada.
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Sherwani M, Abib S, Samad L. Barriers and challenges to achieving equity in global children's surgery: A call to action. Semin Pediatr Surg 2023; 32:151346. [PMID: 38041909 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2023.151346] [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: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
CHALLENGES A Call to Action.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simone Abib
- Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) - Paulista School of Medicine, Pediatric Oncology Institute - GRAACC/UNIFESP
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30
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Abdelhafeez A, Abib S, Lakhoo K. Surgically Amenable Childhood Cancers: An Overview of the Burden and Challenges of Management in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. World J Surg 2023; 47:3402-3407. [PMID: 37162509 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-023-07010-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organization's Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer was launched to decrease the disparities in childhood cancer outcomes and improve treatments for childhood cancer in resource-limited settings. Low-grade glioma, retinoblastoma, and Wilms tumors are among the index cancers included in this global initiative, as these cancers represent a large percentage of childhood tumors and are curable with cost-effective, evidence-based interventions. Herein, we discuss the global childhood tumor burden, the status of pediatric cancer surgery capacity and services around the world, and the strategic considerations for building pediatric surgical oncology capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelhafeez Abdelhafeez
- Department of Surgery, MS 133, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA.
| | - Simone Abib
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Oncology Institute - GRAACC - Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kokila Lakhoo
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
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31
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Hagander L. Improving access to surgery for childhood cancer. Lancet Oncol 2023; 24:1301-1302. [PMID: 37924824 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(23)00477-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lars Hagander
- Pediatric Surgery, Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, and Birgit Rausing Centre for Medical Humanities, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund 22184, Sweden.
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32
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Owusu WE, Burger JR, Lubbe MS, Joubert R, Cockeran M. Incidence patterns of childhood cancer in two tertiary hospitals in Ghana from 2015 to 2019: A retrospective observational study. Cancer Epidemiol 2023; 87:102470. [PMID: 37832243 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2023.102470] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accurate epidemiological data are vital in estimating the burden of disease in a country. Little is known about the incidence of childhood cancer in Ghana. This study describes the incidence patterns of cancer in children below 14 years and 11 months from 2015 to 2019 at the only two main pediatric cancer referral centers in Ghana: Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH). METHOD Data on the incidence of cancer in children below 14 years and 11 months were collected retrospectively between 1st January 2015 and 31st December 2019 from patients' medical folders at KBTH and the cancer registry at the pediatric units of KATH. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the data. Incident rates expressed as age-specific rates (ASRs) per 100,000 person-years using population estimates for age groups and sex in each year, were determined by age groups (0-4, 5-9, 10-14 years and 11 months), sex, region of residence and cancer types based on the International Childhood Cancer Classification, third edition. RESULTS The total ASR per 100,000 person-years from 2015 to 2019 was 9.36 based on 1073 cases observed. The ASR increased from 1.6 per 100,000 person-years in 2015-2.41 in 2017, thereafter decreasing to 1.45 in 2019. The ASR was higher in male children (2.10 per 100,000 person-years), children between 0 and 4 years (0.27 per 100,000 person-years), and children living in the Greater Accra region (4.17 per 100,000 person-years). The most prevalent cancers were lymphomas (2.17 per 100,000 person-years) and leukemia (1.88 per 100,000 person-years). CONCLUSION The study provides baseline information on the incidence patterns of childhood cancer from 2015 to 2019, addressing a critical gap in childhood cancer epidemiology in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winifred E Owusu
- Medicine Usage in South Africa, North-West University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Johanita R Burger
- Medicine Usage in South Africa, North-West University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Martha S Lubbe
- Medicine Usage in South Africa, North-West University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Rianda Joubert
- Medicine Usage in South Africa, North-West University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Marike Cockeran
- Statistical Consultation Services, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Zhao X, Cheng F, Gao Y, Wang Q, Zhao Y, Li P. Association between adult attachment style, communication patterns and caregiver burden in parents of children with solid tumors: A cross-sectional study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2023; 67:102437. [PMID: 37879195 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102437] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary purpose of this cross-sectional study was to delve into the connections among adult attachment styles, communication patterns, and caregiver burden within the sample of parents caring for children diagnosed with solid tumors. METHODS A sample of 456 parents responsible for the care of children with solid tumors was conveniently recruited from a pediatric oncology ward at a tertiary hospital from September 2021 to September 2022. The data collection process included a questionnaire on general information, the Caregiver Burden Inventory, the Adult Attachment Questionnaire Short Form, and the Communication Pattern Questionnaire. RESULTS The findings demonstrated a strong and positive connection between caregiver burden and attachment avoidance, whereas no considerable association was observed for attachment anxiety. Attachment avoidance exhibited a positive link with communication patterns and caregiver burden, and a noteworthy inverse correlation with attachment anxiety. Additionally, communication patterns were uncovered as a mediator in the association between attachment avoidance and caregiver burden. CONCLUSIONS This study underscores the role of communication patterns as mediators between attachment avoidance and caregiver burden among parents of children with solid tumors. These outcomes emphasize the significance of considering attachment styles and communication patterns when comprehending caregiver burden, and can guide the development of targeted interventions to provide support for parents within this challenging context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Zhao
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Fangfang Cheng
- Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 440 Jiyan Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, PR China
| | - Yiming Gao
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Qing Wang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Yiwen Zhao
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Ping Li
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, PR China.
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Jovanović A, Ilić R, Pudrlja Slović M, Paripović L, Janić D, Nikitović M, Grujičić D, Ilić V. Total diagnostic interval in children with brain tumours in a middle-income country: national experience from Serbia. Childs Nerv Syst 2023; 39:3169-3177. [PMID: 37097460 PMCID: PMC10127958 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-05958-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim was to evaluate the total diagnostic interval (TDI) and presenting complaints in children with brain tumours in Serbia. METHODS This study retrospectively analysed 212 children aged 0-18 years newly diagnosed with brain tumours in two tertiary centres from mid-March 2015 to mid-March 2020 covering virtually all children with brain tumours in Serbia. TDI was calculated as the difference between the date of diagnosis and the date of symptom onset presented as a median in weeks. This variable has been evaluable for 184 patients. RESULTS Overall TDI was 6 weeks. TDI was significantly longer in patients with low-grade tumours (11 weeks) than in patients with high-grade tumours (4 weeks). Children with the most frequent complaints (headache, nausea/vomiting and gait disturbance) were more likely to be diagnosed sooner. Patients with a single complaint had significantly longer TDI (12.5 weeks) contrasted to patients with multiple complaints (5 weeks). CONCLUSION TDI with a median of 6 weeks is similar to other developed countries. Our study supports the view that low-grade tumours will present later than high-grade tumours. Children with the commonest complaints and children with multiple complaints were more likely to be diagnosed sooner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksa Jovanović
- Paediatric Oncology Department, National Cancer Research Centre, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Rosanda Ilić
- Neurooncology Department, Neurosurgery Clinic, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Lejla Paripović
- Paediatric Oncology Department, National Cancer Research Centre, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dragana Janić
- Paediatric Oncology Department, National Cancer Research Centre, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Nikitović
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Paediatric Radiation Oncology Department, National Cancer Research Centre, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Danica Grujičić
- Neurooncology Department, Neurosurgery Clinic, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vesna Ilić
- Paediatric Oncology Department, National Cancer Research Centre, Belgrade, Serbia.
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Wösten-van Asperen RM, la Roi-Teeuw HM, van Amstel RBE, Bos LDJ, Tissing WJE, Jordan I, Dohna-Schwake C, Bottari G, Pappachan J, Crazzolara R, Comoretto RI, Mizia-Malarz A, Moscatelli A, Sánchez-Martín M, Willems J, Rogerson CM, Bennett TD, Luo Y, Atreya MR, Faustino ES, Geva A, Weiss SL, Schlapbach LJ, Sanchez-Pinto LN. Distinct clinical phenotypes in paediatric cancer patients with sepsis are associated with different outcomes-an international multicentre retrospective study. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 65:102252. [PMID: 37842550 PMCID: PMC10570699 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Identifying phenotypes in sepsis patients may enable precision medicine approaches. However, the generalisability of these phenotypes to specific patient populations is unclear. Given that paediatric cancer patients with sepsis have different host response and pathogen profiles and higher mortality rates when compared to non-cancer patients, we determined whether unique, reproducible, and clinically-relevant sepsis phenotypes exist in this specific patient population. Methods We studied patients with underlying malignancies admitted with sepsis to one of 25 paediatric intensive care units (PICUs) participating in two large, multi-centre, observational cohorts from the European SCOTER study (n = 383 patients; study period between January 1, 2018 and January 1, 2020) and the U.S. Novel Data-Driven Sepsis Phenotypes in Children study (n = 1898 patients; study period between January 1, 2012 and January 1, 2018). We independently used latent class analysis (LCA) in both cohorts to identify phenotypes using demographic, clinical, and laboratory data from the first 24 h of PICU admission. We then tested the association of the phenotypes with clinical outcomes in both cohorts. Findings LCA identified two distinct phenotypes that were comparable across both cohorts. Phenotype 1 was characterised by lower serum bicarbonate and albumin, markedly increased lactate and hepatic, renal, and coagulation abnormalities when compared to phenotype 2. Patients with phenotype 1 had a higher 90-day mortality (European cohort 29.2% versus 13.4%, U.S. cohort 27.3% versus 11.4%, p < 0.001) and received more vasopressor and renal replacement therapy than patients with phenotype 2. After adjusting for severity of organ dysfunction, haematological cancer, prior stem cell transplantation and age, phenotype 1 was associated with an adjusted OR of death at 90-day of 1.9 (1.04-3.34) in the European cohort and 1.6 (1.2-2.2) in the U.S. cohort. Interpretation We identified two clinically-relevant sepsis phenotypes in paediatric cancer patients that are reproducible across two international, multicentre cohorts with prognostic implications. These results may guide further research regarding therapeutic approaches for these specific phenotypes. Funding Part of this study is funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roelie M. Wösten-van Asperen
- Department of Paediatric Intensive Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht/Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hannah M. la Roi-Teeuw
- Department of Paediatric Intensive Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht/Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rombout BE. van Amstel
- Intensive Care, Amsterdam UMC—location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lieuwe DJ. Bos
- Intensive Care, Amsterdam UMC—location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wim JE. Tissing
- Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Iolanda Jordan
- Department of Paediatric Intensive Care and Institut de Recerca, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Madrid, Spain
| | - Christian Dohna-Schwake
- Department of Paediatrics I, Paediatric Intensive Care, Children’s Hospital Essen, Germany
- West German Centre for Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Gabriella Bottari
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Hospital Bambino Gesù, IRCSS, Rome, Italy
| | - John Pappachan
- Department of Paediatric Intensive Care, Southampton Children’s Hospital, UK
| | - Roman Crazzolara
- Department of Paediatrics, Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rosanna I. Comoretto
- Department of Paediatric Intensive Care, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Agniezka Mizia-Malarz
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, Haematology and Chemotherapy Unit, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Andrea Moscatelli
- Neonatal and Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - María Sánchez-Martín
- Department of Paediatric Intensive Care, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jef Willems
- Department of Paediatric Intensive Care, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Colin M. Rogerson
- Department of Paediatrics, Division of Critical Care, Indianapolis University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Tellen D. Bennett
- Departments of Biomedical Informatics and Paediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Yuan Luo
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mihir R. Atreya
- Department of Paediatrics (Critical Care), University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Centre, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Alon Geva
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine and Computational Health Informatics Program, Boston Children's Hospital, USA
- Department of Anaesthesia, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott L. Weiss
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Paediatrics, Nemours Children’s Health, Delaware, USA
| | - Luregn J. Schlapbach
- Department of Intensive Care and Neonatology and Children’s Research Centre, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - L Nelson Sanchez-Pinto
- Department of Paediatrics (Critical Care) and Preventive Medicine (Health & Biomedical Informatics), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Ann & Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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da Silva JB. Un llamado a la acción: fortalecer los servicios para mejorar la supervivencia en relación con el cáncer infantil en América Latina y el Caribe *. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e161. [PMID: 37873029 PMCID: PMC10590120 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jarbas Barbosa da Silva
- Director, Organización Panamericana de la Salud Washington, D.C. Estados Unidos de América Director, Organización Panamericana de la Salud, Washington, D.C., Estados Unidos de América
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da Silva JB. A call to action: strengthening services to improve childhood cancer survival in Latin America and the Caribbean. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e157. [PMID: 37829576 PMCID: PMC10566528 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jarbas Barbosa da Silva
- Director, Pan American Health Organization Washington, D.C. United States of America Director, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
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Vásquez L, Fuentes-Alabi S, Benitez-Majano S, Ribeiro KB, Abraham M, Agulnik A, Baker JN, Blanco DB, Caniza MA, Cardenas-Aguirre A, Salaverria C, Sullivan CE, Damasco-Avila E, García-Quintero X, Loggetto P, McNeil MJ, Luna-Fineman S, Rossell N, Garcia de Lima RA, de Mendonca RH, Trigoso V, Segovia L, Vasquez R, Moreno F, Friedrich P, Luciani S, Lam C, Metzger ML, Rodríguez-Galindo C, Maza M. Collaboration for success: the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer in Latin America. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e144. [PMID: 37799823 PMCID: PMC10548891 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC) aims to increase the cure rate for children with cancer globally by improving healthcare access and quality. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (St. Jude), and collaborators have joined efforts to improve outcomes of children with cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) using the CureAll framework. In this article, we describe the process of developing regional resources aimed at accelerating the GICC implementation in LAC. In March 2021, PAHO formed regional working groups to develop core projects aligned with CureAll pillars and enablers. Seven working groups emerged from regional dialogues: early detection, nursing, psychosocial, nutrition, supportive care, treatment abandonment, and palliative care. PAHO arranged regular online meetings under the mentorship and support of St. Jude regional/transversal programs and international mentors. Between April and December 2021, 202 multidisciplinary experts attended 43 online meetings to promote the dialogue between stakeholders to improve childhood cancer outcomes. Fourteen technical outputs were produced: four regional snapshots, four technical documents, two virtual courses, one set of epidemiological country profiles, one educational content series for parents/caregivers, and two communication campaigns. The ongoing dialogue and commitment of PAHO, St. Jude, LAC working committees, and international collaborators are essential foundations to successfully accelerate GICC implementation. This is achievable through the development of materials of regional and global relevance. Further research and evaluation are needed to determine the impact of these strategies and resources on childhood cancer outcomes in LAC and other regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Vásquez
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Soad Fuentes-Alabi
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Sara Benitez-Majano
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Karina Braga Ribeiro
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Monnie Abraham
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Asya Agulnik
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Justin N. Baker
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Daniel Bastardo Blanco
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Miguela A. Caniza
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Adolfo Cardenas-Aguirre
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Carmen Salaverria
- Ayúdame a Vivir FoundationSan SalvadorEl SalvadorAyúdame a Vivir Foundation, San Salvador, El Salvador
| | - Courtney E. Sullivan
- University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamUnited States of AmericaUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Erika Damasco-Avila
- Columbia University Irving Medical CenterNew YorkUnited States of AmericaColumbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, United States of America
| | - Ximena García-Quintero
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Patricia Loggetto
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Michael J. McNeil
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Sandra Luna-Fineman
- University of ColoradoAuroraUnited States of AmericaUniversity of Colorado, Aurora, United States of America
| | - Nuria Rossell
- University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlandsUniversity of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Regina Aparecida Garcia de Lima
- University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of NursingRibeirão PretoBrazilUniversity of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Viviana Trigoso
- Pontifical Catholic University of PeruLimaPeruPontifical Catholic University of Peru, Lima, Peru
| | - Lorena Segovia
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Roberto Vasquez
- Hospital Nacional de Niños Benjamin BloomSan SalvadorEl SalvadorHospital Nacional de Niños Benjamin Bloom, San Salvador, El Salvador
| | - Florencia Moreno
- Registro Onco-pediátrico Hospitalario ArgentinoBuenos AiresArgentinaRegistro Onco-pediátrico Hospitalario Argentino, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paola Friedrich
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Silvana Luciani
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Catherine Lam
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Monika L. Metzger
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Carlos Rodríguez-Galindo
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Mauricio Maza
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
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Maradiegue E, Pascual C, Vasquez L, Maza I, Ugaz C, Montoya J, Zapata A, García H, Chavez S, Ordoñez K, Rossi J, Diaz R, Morales R, Trigoso V, Ames R, Celis E, Barzola I, Torres L, Cosme M, Tarrillo F, Rojas N, Santillan C, Quispe Y, Palacios V, Godoy V, Tello M, Tarco D, Wachtel A, Malaver E, Diaz E, Goyburu M, Perez V, Talavera I, Baca ME, Maza M, Saldaña L, Holguin A, Jarquin M, Loggetto P, Metzger M, Friedrich P, Lam C, Rodriguez Galindo C. Strengthening public health policies for childhood cancer: Peru's achievements through the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e132. [PMID: 37750053 PMCID: PMC10516323 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.132] [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: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To report the progress in Peru, since June 2019, in the implementation of the World Health Organization Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer using the CureAll framework, which can be replicated in low- and middle-income countries. Methods A mixed method was used of participatory and documentary evaluation. The participatory evaluation included stakeholders from various government institutions, nonprofit organizations, and international partners. The documentary aspect consisted of a review of data on the regulatory environment, national projects, and interventions implemented. The Ministry of Health engaged more than 150 participants to form working committees, which have developed policy and regulatory documents to strengthen care services. Results Achievements include a decrease in the national treatment abandonment rate from 18.6% to 8.5%, the approval of the Childhood Cancer Law, improvements in the management of patients with febrile neutropenia, and a reduction in rates of events of clinical deterioration and mortality of hospitalized patients. The Cure All implementation framework allows local teams to implement specific strategies and monitor early outcomes in pediatric oncology. Conclusions The results obtained reflect the teamwork, the leadership of the authorities, the technical support of professionals, and the support of involved organizations. Further actions will be needed to guarantee sustainability, and monitoring tools are needed to assure success in the planned activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Essy Maradiegue
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Claudia Pascual
- Pan American Health OrganizationLimaPeruPan American Health Organization, Lima, Peru
| | - Liliana Vasquez
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Ivan Maza
- Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati MartinsLimaPeruHospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, Lima, Peru
| | - Cecilia Ugaz
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Jackeline Montoya
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Arturo Zapata
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Henry García
- Instituto Regional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas del SurLimaPeruInstituto Regional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Sharon Chavez
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Katy Ordoñez
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Jonathan Rossi
- Ronald McDonald House CharitiesLimaPeruRonald McDonald House Charities, Lima, Peru
| | - Rosdali Diaz
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Roxana Morales
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Viviana Trigoso
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Romy Ames
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Edinho Celis
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Isela Barzola
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Liliana Torres
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Melitta Cosme
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Fanny Tarrillo
- Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati MartinsLimaPeruHospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, Lima, Peru
| | - Ninoska Rojas
- Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati MartinsLimaPeruHospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, Lima, Peru
| | - Carlos Santillan
- Pan American Health OrganizationLimaPeruPan American Health Organization, Lima, Peru
| | - Yuly Quispe
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Víctor Palacios
- Regional Health ManagementLambayequePeruRegional Health Management, Lambayeque, Peru
| | - Victoria Godoy
- Instituto Nacional de Salud del NiñoLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Salud del Niño, Lima, Peru
| | - Mariela Tello
- Instituto Nacional de Salud del NiñoLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Salud del Niño, Lima, Peru
| | - Duniska Tarco
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Antonio Wachtel
- Pediatric Oncology Association of PeruLimaPeruPediatric Oncology Association of Peru, Lima, Peru
| | - Estela Malaver
- Ministry of Health of PeruLimaPeruMinistry of Health of Peru, Lima, Peru
| | - Elizabeth Diaz
- National School of Public HealthLimaPeruNational School of Public Health, Lima, Peru
| | - Marlene Goyburu
- Ministry of Health of PeruLimaPeruMinistry of Health of Peru, Lima, Peru
| | - Vivian Perez
- Pan American Health OrganizationLimaPeruPan American Health Organization, Lima, Peru
| | - Ivy Talavera
- Pan American Health OrganizationLimaPeruPan American Health Organization, Lima, Peru
| | - Maria Edith Baca
- Pan American Health OrganizationLimaPeruPan American Health Organization, Lima, Peru
| | - Mauricio Maza
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Lily Saldaña
- Instituto Nacional de Salud del NiñoLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Salud del Niño, Lima, Peru
| | - Alexis Holguin
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades NeoplásicasLimaPeruInstituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Marta Jarquin
- Saint Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSaint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Patricia Loggetto
- Saint Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSaint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Monika Metzger
- Saint Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSaint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Paola Friedrich
- Saint Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSaint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Cath Lam
- Saint Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSaint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Carlos Rodriguez Galindo
- Saint Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaSaint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America
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Vásquez L, Fuentes-Alabí S, Loggetto P, Benitez-Majano S, Metzger ML, Jarquin-Pardo M, Echeandia-Abud N, Gupta S, Denburg A, Friedrich P, Ortiz R, Lam C, Luciani S, Ilbawi A, Rodríguez-Galindo C, Maza M. Advances in the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer: implementation in Latin America and the Caribbean. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e128. [PMID: 37750056 PMCID: PMC10516329 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.128] [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: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This report describes the status of childhood cancer control initiatives in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Progress between 2017 and 2023 is measured using the outcome indicators from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) childhood cancer logic model aligned with the World Health Organization Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC). This report also describes the advances, barriers, and facilitators for the implementation of the GICC at the Regional level. Methods used in this report encompassed a comprehensive approach, incorporating a literature review, interviews, surveys, and a Delphi study developed by the technical team of the PAHO Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Department and by the GICC LAC working group. Since 2017, there has been a substantial increase in the number of countries that have included childhood cancer in their national regulations. Currently, 21 LAC countries are involved in the GICC implementation, activities, and dialogues. However, the objectives for 2030 will only be achieved if Member States overcome the barriers to accelerating the pace of initiative implementation. There is an urgent need to increase the efforts in childhood cancer control in LAC, especially regarding the prioritization of timely detection, essential diagnostics, access to cancer treatment, palliative care, and close follow-up of children and adolescents with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Vásquez
- Unit of Noncommunicable DiseasesDepartment of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental HealthPan American Health Organization/World Health OrganizationWashington, DCUnited States of AmericaUnit of Noncommunicable Diseases, Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America.
| | - Soad Fuentes-Alabí
- Unit of Noncommunicable DiseasesDepartment of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental HealthPan American Health Organization/World Health OrganizationWashington, DCUnited States of AmericaUnit of Noncommunicable Diseases, Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America.
| | - Patricia Loggetto
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineWorld Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood CancerSt. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaDepartment of Global Pediatric Medicine, World Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood Cancer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America.
| | - Sara Benitez-Majano
- Unit of Noncommunicable DiseasesDepartment of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental HealthPan American Health Organization/World Health OrganizationWashington, DCUnited States of AmericaUnit of Noncommunicable Diseases, Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America.
| | - Monika L. Metzger
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineWorld Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood CancerSt. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaDepartment of Global Pediatric Medicine, World Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood Cancer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America.
| | - Marta Jarquin-Pardo
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineWorld Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood CancerSt. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaDepartment of Global Pediatric Medicine, World Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood Cancer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America.
| | - Naomi Echeandia-Abud
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineWorld Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood CancerSt. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaDepartment of Global Pediatric Medicine, World Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood Cancer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America.
| | - Sumit Gupta
- Division of Hematology–OncologyThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoCanadaDivision of Hematology–Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Avram Denburg
- Division of Hematology–OncologyThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoCanadaDivision of Hematology–Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Paola Friedrich
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineWorld Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood CancerSt. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaDepartment of Global Pediatric Medicine, World Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood Cancer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America.
| | - Roberta Ortiz
- Department for the Management of Noncommunicable Diseases, Disability, Violence and Injury PreventionWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerlandDepartment for the Management of Noncommunicable Diseases, Disability, Violence and Injury Prevention, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Catherine Lam
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineWorld Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood CancerSt. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaDepartment of Global Pediatric Medicine, World Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood Cancer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America.
| | - Silvana Luciani
- Unit of Noncommunicable DiseasesDepartment of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental HealthPan American Health Organization/World Health OrganizationWashington, DCUnited States of AmericaUnit of Noncommunicable Diseases, Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America.
| | - Andre Ilbawi
- Department for the Management of Noncommunicable Diseases, Disability, Violence and Injury PreventionWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerlandDepartment for the Management of Noncommunicable Diseases, Disability, Violence and Injury Prevention, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Carlos Rodríguez-Galindo
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineWorld Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood CancerSt. Jude Children’s Research HospitalMemphisUnited States of AmericaDepartment of Global Pediatric Medicine, World Health Organization–Collaborating Center for Childhood Cancer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, United States of America.
| | - Mauricio Maza
- Unit of Noncommunicable DiseasesDepartment of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental HealthPan American Health Organization/World Health OrganizationWashington, DCUnited States of AmericaUnit of Noncommunicable Diseases, Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America.
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Zubieta Acuña CM. [The role of civil society in improving childhood cancer care in Latin AmericaO papel da sociedade civil na melhoria da atenção ao câncer infantil na América Latina]. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e104. [PMID: 37750057 PMCID: PMC10516327 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.104] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In Latin America, childhood cancer includes a number of resource-intensive diseases, with inequalities in access to timely and appropriate diagnosis and treatment. In this context, civil society plays a fundamental role in improving childhood cancer care. The Region's organizations in this sector have become stronger and they now play a leading role in the delivery of services and in the promotion of awareness and advocacy for children's health. The Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, promoted by the World Health Organization and other relevant actors, is an opportunity for governments and civil society to work together to implement best practices in the control of childhood cancer. This article addresses the role of civil society in the care of pediatric cancer in Latin America, highlighting the importance of its commitment to the fight against cancer, participation in awareness-raising, and defense of public policies that favor access to quality health services. It also focuses on the problems and opportunities for civil society in the Region in relation to the implementation of strategies to improve the survival and quality of life of children and adolescents living with cancer.
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Loggetto P, Jarquin-Pardo M, Fuentes-Alabi S, Vasquez L, Benitez Majano S, Gonzalez Ruiz A, Maza M, Metzger ML, Friedrich P, Luciani S, Lam CG. Regional collaboration for the development of national childhood cancer plans in Latin America and the Caribbean. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e125. [PMID: 37750054 PMCID: PMC10516325 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.125] [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: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This article aims to describe the activities conducted by the National Childhood Cancer Plan Working Group to support the development of national childhood cancer plans in Latin America and the Caribbean in the period 2019-2022, and to present the stage of plan development. The Working Group activities were supported by the Pan American Health Organization and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which is the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Childhood Cancer. Year after year, the workshops and activities developed with the Working Group mobilized key stakeholders: pediatric oncologists, representatives of the Ministry of Health, foundations supporting childhood cancer initiatives, and hospital administrators. As of February 2023, one regional framework is in place, approved by the Council of Ministries of Health of Central America and the Dominican Republic, nine countries are currently implementing national plans or laws that include childhood cancer, and ten countries are writing new plans. The WHO three-step framework helped to guide the Working Group activities. All plans were supported by a situational analysis, which highlighted the importance of having systematized data for evidence-based policies. To increase implementation success, an accompanying budget and timeline help to ensure the adequate implementation of the interventions. More than anything, committed stakeholders remain the most fundamental element to successfully write and approve a national childhood cancer plan. This is an opportunity to share these countries' experience so the strategy can be adapted to support other countries developing a childhood cancer plan and extended to other public health areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Loggetto
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalWHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood CancerMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, WHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood Cancer, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Marta Jarquin-Pardo
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalWHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood CancerMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, WHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood Cancer, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Soad Fuentes-Alabi
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Liliana Vasquez
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Sara Benitez Majano
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Alejandra Gonzalez Ruiz
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalWHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood CancerMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, WHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood Cancer, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Mauricio Maza
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Monika L. Metzger
- Médecins Sans FrontièresGenevaSwitzerlandMédecins Sans Frontières, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paola Friedrich
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalWHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood CancerMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, WHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood Cancer, Memphis, United States of America
| | - Silvana Luciani
- Pan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaPan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Catherine G. Lam
- St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalWHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood CancerMemphisUnited States of AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, WHO Collaborating Centre for Childhood Cancer, Memphis, United States of America
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Mjumbe CK, Kulimba DM, Numbi OL, Nkumuyaya M, Balimo DM, Diyoka CK, Ilunga BK. Financial costs of pediatric cancer management in Africa: systematic review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1175560. [PMID: 37808990 PMCID: PMC10556248 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1175560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The high costs of cancer treatment and the lack of investment in health care are significant barriers to public health on the African continent. The objective of this study was to investigate the financial cost of children cancer treating in sub-Saharan Africa. We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar to identify relevant studies between March 2000 and December 2022. We selected articles that specifically addressed the US dollar financial costs of childhood cancer in African countries. Medians and interquartile ranges (IQR) were calculated. We also calculated the economic burden of childhood cancer at the individual level, by dividing the direct costs of cancer per patient by the GDP per capita, PPP of the country studied. The quality of economic studies was assessed using the CHEERS (2022) 28-point checklist. A total of 17 studies met our eligibility criteria. The median (IQR) of total childhood cancer costs by region was $909.5 ($455.3-$1,765) and ranged from $88803.10 for neuroblastoma to $163.80 for lymphoma. No significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed for comparisons of the direct cost of childhood cancer between the geopolitical zone of sub-Saharan Africa. Differences in the direct costs of childhood cancer were significant for different cancer types (p < 0.05). In the majority of 17 out of 54 countries on Africa the continent, the economic burden of childhood cancer exceeds 80% of GDP per capita, PPP, up to 345.38% of Nigeria's GDP for Rhabdomyosarcoma. The cost of treating childhood cancers is high in Africa is catastrophic, if not downright prohibitive for households in Sub-Saharan Africa. We believe that the data from our study will be able to help make different objective advocacy allowing it to be provided with funds based of the evidence that can strengthen this program in order to install cancerology structures in the countries and by following the system plan. Cost reduction in the treatment of childhood cancer in particular and in general all types of cancer. Systematic review registration Approval of the study was given by the ethics committee of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Lubumbashi (UNILU/CEM/135/2018) and (UNILU/CEM/096/2019).
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Affiliation(s)
- Criss Koba Mjumbe
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Desiré Mashinda Kulimba
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Oscar Luboya Numbi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Murielle Nkumuyaya
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Chadrack Kabeya Diyoka
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Benjamin Kabyla Ilunga
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
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Graetz D, Ahmad A, Raza MR, Hameed A, Naheed A, Najmi A, tul Quanita A, Munir S, Ferrara G, Staples C, Rodriguez Galindo C, Hamid SA, Jeha S, Mack JW. Barriers and Facilitators of Quality Family-Centered Communication in Pakistan. JCO Glob Oncol 2023; 9:e2300178. [PMID: 38085038 PMCID: PMC10664852 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Communication is a fundamental aspect of patient- and family-centered care. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of evidence regarding pediatric cancer communication in low- and middle-income countries, where over 90% of all children with childhood cancer live. The purpose of this study was to explore barriers and facilitators of quality communication within two pediatric cancer centers in Pakistan. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 multidisciplinary pediatric cancer clinicians and 18 caregivers of children with cancer at Children's Hospital of Lahore and Indus Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Interviews were conducted in English or Urdu, audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated to English. Two researchers coded each transcript using an inductively derived codebook. Thematic content analysis focused on barriers and facilitators of high-quality communication. RESULTS Pakistani clinicians and caregivers identified factors that affected the quality of patient-centered cancer communication. These included structural factors including setting, available interpreters, documentation, patient volume, teamwork, and financial support. Clinician-level communication barriers and facilitators included communication training, clinician distress/boundaries, and the ability to have recurrent conversations. Patient or family characteristics affecting communication included education, income status, primary language, and geography; the child's specific disease type; and relational elements such as social support, empowerment, and split decision makers. Participants identified existing or potential interventions related to each factor. CONCLUSION Multilevel factors serve as either barriers or facilitators for pediatric cancer communication in Pakistan. Identification of these elements of communication is an essential step toward interventions aimed at improving patient- and family-centered care in resource limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Graetz
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Alia Ahmad
- Children's Hospital Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gia Ferrara
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | | | | | | | - Sima Jeha
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Jennifer W. Mack
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
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Salek M, Silverstein A, Tilly A, Gassant PY, Gunasekera S, Hordofa DF, Hesson D, Duffy C, Malik N, McNeil M, Force LM, Bhakta N, Rodin D, Kaye EC. Factors influencing treatment decision-making for cancer patients in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review. Cancer Med 2023; 12:18133-18152. [PMID: 37526041 PMCID: PMC10524036 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6375] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In this scoping review, we evaluated existing literature related to factors influencing treatment decision-making for patients diagnosed with cancer in low- and middle-income countries, noting factors that influence decisions to pursue treatment with curative versus non-curative intent. We identified an existing framework for adult cancer developed in a high-income country (HIC) context and described similar and novel factors relevant to low-and middle-income country settings. METHODS We used scoping review methodology to identify and synthesize existing literature on factors influencing decision-making for pediatric and adult cancer in these settings. Articles were identified through an advanced Boolean search across six databases, inclusive of all article types from inception through July 2022. RESULTS Seventy-nine articles were identified from 22 countries across six regions, primarily reporting the experiences of lower-middle and upper-middle-income countries. Included articles largely represented original research (54%), adult cancer populations (61%), and studied patients as the targeted population (51%). More than a quarter of articles focused exclusively on breast cancer (28%). Approximately 30% described factors that influenced decisions to choose between therapies with curative versus non-curative intent. Of 56 reported factors, 22 novel factors were identified. Socioeconomic status, reimbursement policies/cost of treatment, and treatment and supportive care were the most commonly described factors. CONCLUSIONS This scoping review expanded upon previously described factors that influence cancer treatment decision-making in HICs, broadening knowledge to include perspectives of low- and middle-income countries. While global commonalities exist, certain variables influence treatment choices differently or uniquely in different settings. Treatment regimens should further be tailored to local environments with consideration of contextual factors and accessible resources that often impact decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Salek
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Allison Silverstein
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Alyssa Tilly
- Division of General Medicine and Clinical EpidemiologyUniversity of North Carolina School of MedicineChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Sanjeeva Gunasekera
- Department of Paediatric OncologyNational Cancer InstituteMaharagamaSri Lanka
| | - Diriba Fufa Hordofa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child HealthJimma University Medical CenterJimmaEthiopia
| | - Donna Hesson
- Welch Medical LibraryJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Caitlyn Duffy
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Nauman Malik
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Michael McNeil
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Lisa M. Force
- Department of Health Metrics Sciences and Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/OncologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Department of Global Pediatric MedicineSt Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
| | - Danielle Rodin
- Department of Radiation, OncologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Radiation Medicine ProgramPrincess Margaret Cancer CentreTorontoOntarioCanada
- Canada Global Cancer ProgramPrincess Margaret Cancer CentreTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Erica C. Kaye
- Department of OncologySt Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTennesseeUSA
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Ritter J, Allen S, Cohen PD, Fajardo AF, Marx K, Loggetto P, Auste C, Lewis H, de Sá Rodrigues KE, Hussain S, Omotola A, Bolous NS, Thirumurthy H, Essue BM, Steliarova-Foucher E, Huang IC, Meheus F, Bhakta N. Financial hardship in families of children or adolescents with cancer: a systematic literature review. Lancet Oncol 2023; 24:e364-e375. [PMID: 37657477 PMCID: PMC10775706 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(23)00320-0] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Financial hardship in childhood cancer contributes to poor health outcomes and global disparities in survival, but the extent of the financial burden on families is not yet fully understood. We systematically reviewed financial hardship prevalence and individual components characterising financial hardship across six domains (medical, non-medical, and indirect costs, financial strategies, psychosocial responses, and behavioural responses) and compared characteristics across country income levels using an established theory of human needs. We included 123 studies with data spanning 47 countries. Extensive heterogeneity in study methodologies and measures resulted in incomparable prevalence estimates and limited analysis. Components characterising financial hardship spanned the six domains and showed variation across country income contexts, yet a synthesis of existing literature cannot establish whether these are true differences in characterisation or burden. Our findings emphasise a crucial need to implement a data-driven methodological framework with validated measures to inform effective policies and interventions to address financial hardship in childhood cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Ritter
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Kelsey Marx
- Prometheus Federal Services, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Patrícia Loggetto
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | - Hedley Lewis
- CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, Rivonia, South Africa
| | | | | | - Ayomide Omotola
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Nancy S Bolous
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Beverley M Essue
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - I-Chan Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Filip Meheus
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
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Wilson BE, Sullivan R, Peto R, Abubakar B, Booth C, Werutsky G, Adams C, Saint-Raymond A, Fleming TR, Lyerly K, Gralow JR. Global Cancer Drug Development-A Report From the 2022 Accelerating Anticancer Agent Development and Validation Meeting. JCO Glob Oncol 2023; 9:e2300294. [PMID: 37944089 PMCID: PMC10645408 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Rapidly expanding systemic treatment options, combined with improved screening, diagnostic, surgical, and radiotherapy techniques, have led to improved survival outcomes for many cancers over time. However, these overall survival gains have disproportionately benefited patients in high-income countries, whereas patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to experience challenges in accessing timely and guideline concordant care. In September 2022, the Accelerating Anticancer Agent Development and Validation workshop was held, focusing on global cancer drug development. Panelists discussed key barriers such as the lack of diagnostic services and human resources, drug accessibility and affordability, lack of research infrastructure, and regulatory and authorization challenges, with a particular focus on Africa and Latin America. Potential opportunities to improve access and affordability were reviewed, such as the importance of prioritizing investments in diagnostics, investing health infrastructure and work force planning, coordinated drug procurement efforts and streamlined regulatory processing, incentivized pricing through regulatory change, and the importance of developing and promoting clinical trials that can answer relevant clinical questions for patients in LMICs. As a cancer community, we must continue to advocate for and work toward equitable access to high-quality interventions for patients, regardless of their geographical location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke E. Wilson
- Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Queen's Cancer Research Institute, Kingston, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Richard Sullivan
- Institute of Cancer Policy, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Oncology, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Peto
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Bello Abubakar
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, National Hospital Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Christopher Booth
- Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Queen's Cancer Research Institute, Kingston, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Gustavo Werutsky
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital São Lucas, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Cary Adams
- Union for International Cancer Control, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Agnes Saint-Raymond
- International Affairs Division, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Kim Lyerly
- Departments of Surgery, Pathology, and Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
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Li CK, Kurkure P, Arora RS, Chen BW, Kirgizov K, Okamoto Y, Seksarn P, Tang Y, Yoo KH, Agarwal B, Chan GC, Dalvi R, Hori H, Khan MS, Yu A, Nakagawara A. Current Challenges of Asian National Children's Cancer Study Groups on Behalf of Asian Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Group. JCO Glob Oncol 2023; 9:e2300153. [PMID: 37656946 PMCID: PMC10581612 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In Asia, a few countries have a long and established history of collaborative clinical trials successfully formed national children's cancer study groups, but many still do not have such groups. The process of forming national children's cancer groups is fraught with many hurdles, which varies among the countries. One of the basic requirements for running clinical trials is an affordable health care system in which most of the children with cancer can receive the proposed treatment. The health insurance coverage for children with cancer varies from <20% to as high as 100% among Asian countries, and the operation of clinical trials must also be adjusted accordingly. Shortage of research personnel is common, including medical, nursing, research coordinators, and data managers. The establishment of the Asian Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Group aims to provide a good platform for promotion of international clinical trials in the Asian countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-kong Li
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Purna Kurkure
- Division of Pediatric Hemato Oncology & BMT, SRCC Children's Hospital Haji Ali, Mumbai, India
| | - Ramandeep Singh Arora
- Pediatric Oncology Disease Management Group, Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Bow Wen Chen
- Koo Foundation Sun Yat-Sen Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kirill Kirgizov
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yasuhiro Okamoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Sakuragaoka Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Panya Seksarn
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yongmin Tang
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Keon Hee Yoo
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Bharat Agarwal
- Department of Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, B J Wadia Hospital for Children, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Godfrey C.F. Chan
- Department of Paediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Rashmi Dalvi
- Department of Pediatrics, Bombay Hospital Institute of Medical Sciences, Bombay, India
| | - Hiroki Hori
- Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University in Tsu, Tsu, Japan
| | - Muhammad Saghir Khan
- Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Al Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Alice Yu
- Institute of Stem Cell & Translational Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Akira Nakagawara
- Saga International Carbon Particle Beam Radiation Cancer Therapy Center, Saga HIMAT Foundation, Harakoga-Machi, Saga, Japan
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49
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Agulnik A, Muniz-Talavera H, Pham LTD, Chen Y, Carrillo AK, Cárdenas-Aguirre A, Gonzalez Ruiz A, Garza M, Conde Morelos Zaragoza TM, Soberanis Vasquez DJ, Méndez-Aceituno A, Acuña-Aguirre C, Alfonso-Carreras Y, Alvarez Arellano SY, Andrade Sarmiento LA, Batista R, Blasco Arriaga EE, Calderon P, Chavez Rios M, Costa ME, Díaz-Coronado R, Fing Soto EA, Gómez García WC, Herrera Almanza M, Juarez Tobías MS, León López EM, López Facundo NA, Martinez Soria RA, Miller K, Miralda Méndez ST, Mora Robles LN, Negroe Ocampo NDC, Noriega Acuña B, Osuna Garcia A, Pérez Alvarado CM, Pérez Fermin CK, Pineda Urquilla EE, Portilla Figueroa CA, Ríos Lopez LE, Rivera Mijares J, Soto Chávez V, Suarez Soto JI, Teixeira Costa J, Tejocote Romero I, Villanueva Hoyos EE, Villegas Pacheco M, Devidas M, Rodriguez-Galindo C. Effect of paediatric early warning systems (PEWS) implementation on clinical deterioration event mortality among children with cancer in resource-limited hospitals in Latin America: a prospective, multicentre cohort study. Lancet Oncol 2023; 24:978-988. [PMID: 37433316 PMCID: PMC10727097 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(23)00285-1] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paediatric early warning systems (PEWS) aid in the early identification of clinical deterioration events in children admitted to hospital. We aimed to investigate the effect of PEWS implementation on mortality due to clinical deterioration in children with cancer in 32 resource-limited hospitals across Latin America. METHODS Proyecto Escala de Valoración de Alerta Temprana (Proyecto EVAT) is a quality improvement collaborative to implement PEWS in hospitals providing childhood cancer care. In this prospective, multicentre cohort study, centres joining Proyecto EVAT and completing PEWS implementation between April 1, 2017, and May 31, 2021, prospectively tracked clinical deterioration events and monthly inpatient-days in children admitted to hospital with cancer. De-identified registry data reported between April 17, 2017, and Nov 30, 2021, from all hospitals were included in analyses; children with limitations on escalation of care were excluded. The primary outcome was clinical deterioration event mortality. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were used to compare clinical deterioration event mortality before and after PEWS implementation; multivariable analyses assessed the correlation between clinical deterioration event mortality and centre characteristics. FINDINGS Between April 1, 2017, and May 31, 2021, 32 paediatric oncology centres from 11 countries in Latin America successfully implemented PEWS through Proyecto EVAT; these centres documented 2020 clinical deterioration events in 1651 patients over 556 400 inpatient-days. Overall clinical deterioration event mortality was 32·9% (664 of 2020 events). The median age of patients with clinical deterioration events was 8·5 years (IQR 3·9-13·2), and 1095 (54·2%) of 2020 clinical deterioration events were reported in male patients; data on race or ethnicity were not collected. Data were reported per centre for a median of 12 months (IQR 10-13) before PEWS implementation and 18 months (16-18) after PEWS implementation. The mortality rate due to a clinical deterioration event was 1·33 events per 1000 patient-days before PEWS implementation and 1·09 events per 1000 patient-days after PEWS implementation (IRR 0·82 [95% CI 0·69-0·97]; p=0·021). In the multivariable analysis of centre characteristics, higher clinical deterioration event mortality rates before PEWS implementation (IRR 1·32 [95% CI 1·22-1·43]; p<0·0001), being a teaching hospital (1·18 [1·09-1·27]; p<0·0001), not having a separate paediatric haematology-oncology unit (1·38 [1·21-1·57]; p<0·0001), and having fewer PEWS omissions (0·95 [0·92-0·99]; p=0·0091) were associated with a greater reduction in clinical deterioration event mortality after PEWS implementation; no association was found with country income level (IRR 0·86 [95% CI 0·68-1·09]; p=0·22) or clinical deterioration event rates before PEWS implementation (1·04 [0·97-1·12]; p=0·29). INTERPRETATION PEWS implementation was associated with reduced clinical deterioration event mortality in paediatric patients with cancer across 32 resource-limited hospitals in Latin America. These data support the use of PEWS as an effective evidence-based intervention to reduce disparities in global survival for children with cancer. FUNDING American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities, US National Institutes of Health, and Conquer Cancer Foundation. TRANSLATIONS For the Spanish and Portuguese translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asya Agulnik
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | | | - Linh T D Pham
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Yichen Chen
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | | | | | - Marcela Garza
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kenia Miller
- Hospital del Niño "Jose Renan Esquivel", Panama, Panama
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jorge Iván Suarez Soto
- Hospital del Niño. Sistema integral para el Desarrollo de la Familia (DIF), Pachuca, Mexico
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50
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Kintossou AK, Blanco-Lopez J, Iguacel I, Pisanu S, Almeida CCB, Steliarova-Foucher E, Sierens C, Gunter MJ, Ladas EJ, Barr RD, Van Herck K, Kozlakidis Z, Huybrechts I. Early Life Nutrition Factors and Risk of Acute Leukemia in Children: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2023; 15:3775. [PMID: 37686807 PMCID: PMC10489830 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173775] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute leukemia commonly occurs in young children with peak incidence at the age of 2-5 years. However, the etiology is still unclear and many preventable risk factors still deserve to be reviewed. The focus of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to summarize the evidence concerning early life nourishment (breastfeeding, early life diet), neonatal vitamin K administration and the risk of acute leukemia. All epidemiological studies published up to June 2023 and assessing diet-related risk factors for childhood acute leukemia were identified in two electronic databases (PubMed and Web of Science), with no limits on publication year or language. A total of 38 studies (37 case-control studies and 1 study with pooled analysis) were included. The published risk estimates were combined into a meta-analysis using the Generic Inverse Variance method. The current evidence shows that breastfeeding (yes vs. no) has a protective effect against acute lymphoblastic leukemia (odds ratio = 0.85; 95% CI, 0.76-0.94). Evidence related to the role of other studied factors (foods and supplements) is inconclusive. Further research into the potential role of diet in early life and the risk of acute leukemia is needed to develop prevention strategies at population level. Review Registration: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42019128937.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambroise Kouame Kintossou
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, 69007 Lyon, France; (A.K.K.); (E.S.-F.); (Z.K.); (I.H.)
- Biobank, Pasteur Institute of Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan 01 BP 490, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Jessica Blanco-Lopez
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, 69007 Lyon, France; (A.K.K.); (E.S.-F.); (Z.K.); (I.H.)
| | - Isabel Iguacel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Silvia Pisanu
- Section of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy;
| | | | - Eva Steliarova-Foucher
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, 69007 Lyon, France; (A.K.K.); (E.S.-F.); (Z.K.); (I.H.)
| | - Ciska Sierens
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (C.S.); (K.V.H.)
| | - Marc J. Gunter
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK;
| | - Elena J. Ladas
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA;
| | - Ronald D. Barr
- Departments of Pediatrics, Pathology and Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L7, Canada;
| | - Koen Van Herck
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (C.S.); (K.V.H.)
| | - Zisis Kozlakidis
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, 69007 Lyon, France; (A.K.K.); (E.S.-F.); (Z.K.); (I.H.)
| | - Inge Huybrechts
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, 69007 Lyon, France; (A.K.K.); (E.S.-F.); (Z.K.); (I.H.)
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