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Dau H, Nankya E, Naguti P, Basemera M, Payne BA, Vidler M, Singer J, McNair A, AboMoslim M, Smith L, Orem J, Nakisige C, Ogilvie G. The economic burden of cervical cancer on women in Uganda: Findings from a cross-sectional study conducted at two public cervical cancer clinics. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002554. [PMID: 38489259 PMCID: PMC10942052 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
There is limited research on how a cervical cancer diagnosis financially impacts women and their families in Uganda. This analysis aimed to describe the economic impact of cervical cancer treatment, including how it differs by socio-economic status (SES) in Uganda. We conducted a cross-sectional study from September 19, 2022 to January 17, 2023. Women were recruited from the Uganda Cancer Institute and Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, and were eligible if they were ≥ of 18 years and being treated for cervical cancer. Participants completed a survey that included questions about their out-of-pocket costs, unpaid labor, and family's economic situation. A wealth index was constructed to determine their SES. Descriptive statistics were reported. Of the 338 participants, 183 were from the lower SES. Women from the lower SES were significantly more likely to be older, have ≤ primary school education, and have a more advanced stage of cervical cancer. Over 90% of participants in both groups reported paying out-of-pocket for cervical cancer. Only 15 participants stopped treatment because they could not afford it. Women of a lower SES were significantly more likely to report borrowing money (higher SES n = 47, 30.5%; lower SES n = 84, 46.4%; p-value = 0.004) and selling possessions (higher SES n = 47, 30.5%; lower SES n = 90, 49.7%; p-value = 0.006) to pay for care. Both SES groups reported a decrease in the amount of time that they spent caring for their children since their cervical cancer diagnosis (higher SES n = 34, 31.2%; lower SES n = 36, 29.8%). Regardless of their SES, women in Uganda incur out-of-pocket costs related to their cervical cancer treatment. However, there are inequities as women from the lower SES groups were more likely to borrow funds to afford treatment. Alternative payment models and further economic support could help alleviate the financial burden of cervical cancer care in Uganda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hallie Dau
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | - Miriam Basemera
- Cancer Unit, Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, Jinja, Uganda
| | - Beth A. Payne
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Marianne Vidler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Joel Singer
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Centre for Advancing Health Outcomes, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Avery McNair
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Maryam AboMoslim
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Laurie Smith
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Cancer, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | - Gina Ogilvie
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Chona EZ, Msengi EA, Gosse RA, Ambikile JS. The lived experiences and caring needs of women diagnosed with cervical cancer: A qualitative study in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289925. [PMID: 37561728 PMCID: PMC10414621 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289925] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer continues to be a major global public health concern affecting the lives of many women and resulting in financial burdens. In 2020, cervical cancer was the seventh most commonly diagnosed cancer among all cancers worldwide and Tanzania was ranked fourth among the countries with the highest incidence rates (59.1 new cases per 100,000 women) of cervical cancer. The lived experience and caring needs of patients and their families provide insights into the psychosocial aspects of healthcare among the affected population. However, there is inadequate information concerning the lived experiences of cervical cancer patients in Tanzania and Sub-Saharan Africa in general. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences and caring needs of cervical cancer patients at Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. METHODS A qualitative descriptive study was carried out among cervical cancer patients at ORCI in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Using a purposeful sampling technique, 12 cervical cancer patients were interviewed with the principles of saturation guiding sample size determination. A semi-structured face-to-face interview guide was employed to collect the information. A conventional content analysis approach was used to analyze data after translation with the aid of NVivo 12.0 computer software. RESULTS Five themes emerged after data analysis: knowledge and attitude about cervical cancer, sufferings from a disease process, socio-economic disruptions, psychological problems, and sexual and reproductive concerns. CONCLUSION The findings of this study provide insights into the life experiences and caring needs of cervical cancer patients and call for response from healthcare stakeholders to develop and implement comprehensive and culturally consonant approaches in providing care to the affected population. More qualitative studies are required to ascertain the lived experiences of advanced cervical cancer patients and those of long-term cervical cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Z. Chona
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Rashid A. Gosse
- Department of Clinical Nursing Services, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Joel S. Ambikile
- Department of Clinical Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Dau H, Trawin J, Nakisige C, Payne BA, Vidler M, Singer J, Orem J, Smith L, Ogilvie G. The social and economic impacts of cervical cancer on women and children in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023; 160:751-761. [PMID: 35962711 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited knowledge on the social and economic impacts of a diagnosis of cervical cancer on women and children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). OBJECTIVES To determine the social and economic impacts associated with cervical cancer among women and children living in LMICs. SEARCH STRATEGY The MEDLINE, PsychInfo, CINAHL, Pais International, and CAB Global Health databases were systematically searched to retrieve studies up to June 2021. SELECTION CRITERIA Studies were included if they reported on either the social or economic impacts of women or children in a LMIC. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data was independently extracted by two co-authors. The authors performed a quality assessment on all included articles. MAIN RESULTS In all, 53 studies were included in the final review. Social impacts identified included social support, education, and independence. Economic impacts included employment and financial security. No study reported the economic impact on children. Studies that utilized quantitative methods typically reported more positive results than those that utilized qualitative methods. CONCLUSIONS Additional mixed-methods research is needed to further understand the social support needs of women with cervical cancer. Furthermore, research is needed on the impact of a mother's diagnosis of cervical cancer on her children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hallie Dau
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jessica Trawin
- Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Beth A Payne
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Marianne Vidler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Joel Singer
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Laurie Smith
- Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Cancer, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gina Ogilvie
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Onyeka TC, Onu JU, Agom DA. Psychosocial aspects of adult cancer patients: A scoping review of sub-Saharan Africa. Psychooncology 2023; 32:86-106. [PMID: 36250212 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychosocial aspects of adult cancer patients in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have been described in silos of research articles. Integrative analysis of regional evidence is lacking. This review aimed to describe the scope of existing research on mental health problems, identify research gaps and make informed research, policy and practice recommendations. METHODS Search was conducted for original peer-reviewed research articles, irrespective of their quality, on psychosocial aspects of cancer in all SSA countries using PubMed, Google Scholar, Google search, African Index Medicus and direct searches of reference list of pertinent journal articles. Publications in English or translated to English were included. Case reports, dissertations, abstracts, publications without primary focus on psychosocial issues, psychosocial issues in children and studies conducted with SSA populations living outside the sub-region were excluded. The methodological framework described by Arksey and O'Malley was used to synthesize and present the results. Inductive approach was used to arrive at the thematic areas. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guideline was used to describe the review. RESULTS Eighty-three studies conducted across 15 countries were identified. Six thematic areas emerged namely; psychosocial needs, psychiatric disorders, coping strategies, suicidality, psychometrics and psychosocial interventions. Fifteen of 46 countries had at least one study with the majority of articles emanating from Nigeria. Research articles on psychosocial needs, psychiatric morbidities and coping strategies appears adequate for systematic review in SSA region. Despite the overwhelming evidence of high unmet psychosocial needs, a huge gap exists regarding psychosocial interventions. CONCLUSION Further research is needed into identified gaps in the region and quality of evidence of these studies need to be improved upon. Comprehensive policies and action plan development are sin qua non for addressing psychosocial problems of adults with cancer in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonia C Onyeka
- Department of Anaesthesia/Pain and Palliative Care Unit, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria Ituku-Ozalla Campus, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria.,Center for Translation and Implementation Research (CTAIR), College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Justus U Onu
- Center for Translation and Implementation Research (CTAIR), College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria.,Department of Mental Health, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
| | - David A Agom
- Center for Translation and Implementation Research (CTAIR), College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria.,School of Nursing and Health Education, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
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Uwayezu MG, Nikuze B, Maree JE, Buswell L, Fitch MI. Competencies for Nurses Regarding Psychosocial Care of Patients With Cancer in Africa: An Imperative for Action. JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2100240. [PMID: 35044834 PMCID: PMC8789211 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychosocial care is considered an important component of quality cancer care. Individuals treated for cancer can experience biologic or physical, emotional, spiritual, and practical consequences (eg, financial), which have an impact on their quality of living. With the establishment of cancer centers in Africa, there is growing advocacy regarding the need for psychosocial care, given the level of unmet supportive care needs and high emotional distress reported for patients. Nurses are in an ideal position to provide psychosocial care to patients with cancer and their families but must possess relevant knowledge and skills to do so. Across Africa, nurses are challenged in gaining the necessary education for psychosocial cancer care as programs vary in the amount of psychosocial content offered. This perspective article presents competencies regarding psychosocial care for nurses caring for patients with cancer in Africa. The competencies were adapted by expert consensus from existing evidenced-based competencies for oncology nurses. They are offered as a potential basis for educational program planning and curriculum development for cancer nursing in Africa. Recommendations are offered regarding use of these competencies by nursing and cancer program leaders to enhance the quality of care for African patients with cancer and their family members. The strategies emphasize building capacity of nurses to engage in effective delivery of psychosocial care for individuals with cancer and their family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Goretti Uwayezu
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Bellancille Nikuze
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Johanna E. Maree
- Department of Nursing Education, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg & Netcare Education, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lori Buswell
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Partners in Health, Boston, MA
| | - Margaret I. Fitch
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Rory Meyer's College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY
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Krakauer EL, Kwete X, Kane K, Afshan G, Bazzett-Matabele L, Bien-Aimé DDR, Byrne-Martelli S, Connor S, Correa R, Devi CRB, Diop M, Gafer N, Goodman A, Grover S, Hasenburg A, Irwin K, Thanh Khanh Q, Kumar S, Nevzorova D, Truong QXN, Rajagopal MR, Randall T, Rassouli M, Sessa C, Spence D, Torode JS, Trimble T, Varghese C, Fidarova E. Cervical Cancer-Associated Suffering: Estimating the Palliative Care Needs of a Highly Vulnerable Population. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 7:862-872. [PMID: 34115522 PMCID: PMC8457813 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To enable design of optimum palliative care for women with cervical cancer, we studied the most common types of suffering and their severity, prevalence, and duration. METHODS We first reviewed the literature on the major types, severity, prevalence, and duration of suffering associated with cervical cancer. We then conducted a modified Delphi process with experts in cervical cancer care to supplement the literature. For each type of suffering, we distinguished between decedents (those who die from cervical cancer in a given year) and nondecedents (those who have cervical cancer in a given year but do not die). By applying the suffering prevalence and duration estimates to the number of decedents, nondecedents, and family caregivers in 2017, we were able to estimate their palliative care needs and the intensity of palliative care needed to respond adequately to this suffering. RESULTS There is a high prevalence among decedents of moderate or severe pain (84%), vaginal discharge (66%), vaginal bleeding (61%), and loss of faith (31%). Among both decedents and nondecedents, there is a high prevalence of clinically significant anxiety (63% and 50%, respectively), depressed mood (52% and 38%, respectively), and sexual dysfunction (87% and 83%, respectively). Moderate or severe financial distress is prevalent among decedents, nondecedents, and family caregivers (84%, 74%, and 66%, respectively). More than 40% of decedents and nondecedents are abandoned by their intimate partners. Most patients experience some combination of moderate or severe physical, psychological, social, and spiritual suffering. In total, 258,649 decedents and 2,558,857 nondecedents needed palliative care in 2017, approximately 85% of whom were in low- and middle-income countries where palliative care is rarely accessible. CONCLUSION Among women with advanced cervical cancer, suffering is highly prevalent and often severe and multifaceted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric L. Krakauer
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Deparment of Palliative Care, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
| | | | - Khadidjatou Kane
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Gauhar Afshan
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Lisa Bazzett-Matabele
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Danta Dona Ruthnie Bien-Aimé
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Université Episcopale d'Haiti, Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Faculté des Sciences Infirmières de Leogane, Leogane, Haiti
| | - Sarah Byrne-Martelli
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | | | | | | | - Mamadou Diop
- Cancer Institute of Cheikh Anta Diop University, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Nahla Gafer
- Radiation and Isotope Centre, Khartoum, Oncology Hospital, Sudan
- Comboni College of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Annekathryn Goodman
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Annette Hasenburg
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kelly Irwin
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Suresh Kumar
- Institute of Palliative Medicine, Medical College, Kerala, India
| | - Diana Nevzorova
- Federal Center for Palliative Care, Sechenov 1st Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
- Hospice Care Professionals Association of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Quynh Xuan Nguyen Truong
- College of Public Health Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- School of Social Work, Boston College, Newton, MA
- University Medical Center of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | | - Tom Randall
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Maryam Rassouli
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Cristiana Sessa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Dingle Spence
- Hope Institute Hospital, Kingston, Jamaica
- University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica
| | | | | | - Cherian Varghese
- Department of Non-communicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Elena Fidarova
- Department of Non-communicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Adoch W, Garimoi CO, Scott SE, Okeny GG, Moodley J, Komakech H, Walter FM, Mwaka AD. Knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms among women in a refugee settlement: a cross-sectional study in northern Uganda. Confl Health 2020; 14:85. [PMID: 33292345 PMCID: PMC7713037 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-020-00328-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are limited data on awareness of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms among refugee populations living in Uganda. In this study, we sought to determine the awareness and knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms among women in Palabek refugee settlement, northern Uganda. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study. 815 women (aged 18-60 years) were randomly selected using multistage sampling in Palabek refugee settlement. Data were collected using pre-tested, structured questionnaires. Logistic regression models were used to determine magnitudes of association between socio-demographic and health system factors, and knowledge on cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms. RESULTS The majority of participants (53%, n = 433) were young (18-29 years), married (68%, n = 553), and did not have formal employment (93%, n = 759). Less than half (40%, n = 325) had heard of cervical cancer. Of those who had heard, most recognized multiple male sexual partners, early onset of sexual intercourse and HPV infections as risk factors for cervical cancer (93%, n = 295; 89%, n = 283; and 86%, n = 271 respectively). Median knowledge score for risk factor recognition = 7 (IQR: 3-9). Median knowledge score for symptoms recognition = 7 (IQR: 1-10). Half of women (50%, n = 409) correctly recognized 7 to 11 symptoms of cervical cancer, with vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods, pelvic pain, and vaginal bleeding during/after sexual intercourse recognized by 58, 52 and 54% respectively. Single women (OR = 0.59 (95%CI: 0.38-0.94), and women that lived farther than 1 kilo meter from nearest health facility in South Sudan (OR = 0.36-0.49 (95%CI: 0.26-0.84) were less likely to be knowledgeable of symptoms of cervical cancer. CONCLUSION A significant proportion of women in Palabek refugee settlement had not heard about cervical cancer. Refugee health services providers could increase awareness of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms through health education in order to promote risk reduction behaviours and guide women during symptoms appraisal. Single women and those who lived more than one kilo metre from nearest health facility in home country could be a priority group for awareness intervention in the settlement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Adoch
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Christopher Orach Garimoi
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Suzanne E. Scott
- Centre for Oral, Clinical & Translational Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacical Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Geoffrey Goddie Okeny
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jennifer Moodley
- Women’s Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road. Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
- Cancer Research Initiative, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
| | - Henry Komakech
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fiona M. Walter
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health & Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Amos Deogratius Mwaka
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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Bingo SAM, Maree JE, Jansen van Rensburg JJM. Living with cancer of the head and neck: A qualitative inquiry into the experiences of South African patients. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2019; 29:e13205. [PMID: 31829489 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the experiences of South African patients living with head and neck cancer. METHODS We used a qualitative descriptive design and conducted unstructured interviews with 18 (n = 18) purposive selected participants. Data saturation determined the sample size. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the data. RESULTS The majority of the sample were Black males; on average, 50.8 years (SD ± 13.6) old. Two themes and eight subthemes arose from the data. The themes were living with the consequences of the illness and treatment, and coping with a changed life. The lives the participants knew before becoming sick changed and became a living hell; pain was a major problem as was eating and for some, communicating. The participants were stigmatised, ridiculed and rejected which added to their suffering. Receiving support from family and friends and their faith in God assisted them to cope with their changed lives. CONCLUSION Our study poses various challenges to clinical practice. Pain management is of the utmost importance; the nutritional status of these patients should be monitored and best practices in terms of management applied. Raising awareness of cancer and its complications could improve knowledge and decrease blame, stigmatisation and rejection and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Alloss Mbale Bingo
- Department of Nursing Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Johanna Elizabeth Maree
- Department of Nursing Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Sabulei C, Maree JE. An exploration into the quality of life of women treated for cervical cancer. Curationis 2019; 42:e1-e9. [PMID: 31170799 PMCID: PMC6556867 DOI: 10.4102/curationis.v42i1.1982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical cancer mainly occurs among women from the developing world, and women face unique challenges in terms of their disease and treatment. Most women present with advanced cervical cancer and receive the standard curative treatment with external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy with or without chemotherapy. Objectives To describe the quality of life (QOL) of women treated for cervical cancer during treatment (M0), at 6 months after completing treatment (M6) and at 12 months after treatment (M12). Methods A cross-sectional design, calculated sample size (n = 153) and convenience sampling were used. Data were collected through structured interviews, and the EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ CX24 served as data collection instruments. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data, and the Kruskal–Wallis H test was used to compare the mean responses across the groups (p ≤ 0.05). Results The mean age of the respondents was 50.6 years (standard deviation [SD] 11.9). The global health status improved significantly in contrast with the functional scores. Financial difficulties were rampant, especially during the treatment phase. Insomnia and urinary frequency were the most cumbersome problems and remained so even after treatment. Conclusions Despite an improvement in the global health, cervical cancer and its treatment had a negative influence on the QOL in all domains of lives of these women. Assessing the QOL of patients during treatment and follow-up visits would allow nurses to develop interventions to address distressing problems timeously. In addition, Africa’s nurses should assess social functioning and develop programmes to prevent social dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Sabulei
- Department of Nursing Education, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
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Rwamugira J, Maree JE, Mafutha N. The Knowledge of South African Men Relating to Cervical Cancer and Cervical Cancer Screening. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2019; 34:130-136. [PMID: 28879562 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-017-1278-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in South African women, but the most common cancer in Black women. Despite having a national cervical cancer screening programme, most women present with advanced disease. Men play a role in cervical cancer as the HPV, the major cause of cervical cancer, is sexually transmitted. The purpose of our study was to describe the knowledge men, living in Muldersdrift, had about cervical cancer, cervical cancer screening and the cervical cancer screening programme and how they preferred to be taught about these health issues. We used a survey design and convenience sampling to select 101 men older than 18 years (n = 101). A pretested self-developed questionnaire was used as the data collection instrument, and the data were analyzed using the SPSS version 22-computer program and quantitative content analyses. The Fischer's exact test measured associations between variables (p = 0.05). The ages of the sample (n = 101) ranged from 18 to 92 years; most were from the Zulu cultural group, unemployed and unmarried. The majority (66.3%, n = 67) had not heard of cervical cancer, the cervical cancer screening programme (60.4%, n = 61) or the Pap smear (67.3%, n = 68). Age and educational level did not influence having ever heard of these health issues. HPV infection was the most well-known risk factor, and the very late symptoms of cervical cancer were the least known. Most men preferred to be educated in a group, which provided a practical, feasible and cost effective way of educating men living in this community about these health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeniffer Rwamugira
- Department of Nursing Education, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Johanna E Maree
- Department of Nursing Education, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.
| | - Nokuthula Mafutha
- Department of Nursing Education, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
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Brown CA, Kohler RE, John O, Motswetla G, Mmalane M, Tapela N, Grover S, Dryden-Peterson S, Lockman S, Dryden-Peterson SL. Multilevel Factors Affecting Time to Cancer Diagnosis and Care Quality in Botswana. Oncologist 2018; 23:1453-1460. [PMID: 30082488 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2017-0643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer incidence is increasing in Africa, and the majority of patients are diagnosed with advanced disease, limiting treatment options and survival. We sought to understand care patterns and factors contributing to delayed diagnosis and treatment initiation among patients with cancer in Botswana. PATIENTS AND METHODS We recruited 20 patients who were enrolled in a prospective cancer cohort in Botswana to a qualitative substudy that explored cancer care pathways and factors affecting cancer care access and quality. We conducted an in-depth interview with each participant between October 2014 and January 2015, using a a structured interview guide with questions about initial cancer symptoms, previous consultations, diagnosis, and care pathways. Medical records were used to confirm dates or treatment details when needed. RESULTS Individual and interpersonal factors such as cancer awareness and social support facilitated care-seeking behaviors. However, patients experienced multiple delays in diagnosis and treatment because of provider and health system barriers. Health system factors, such as misdiagnosis, understaffed facilities, poor referral communication and scheduling, and inadequate laboratory reporting systems, affected access to and quality of cancer care. CONCLUSION These findings highlight the need for interventions at the patient, provider, and health system levels to improve cancer care quality and outcomes in Botswana. Results also suggest that widespread cancer education has potential to promote early diagnosis through family and community networks. Identified barriers and facilitators suggest that interventions to improve community education and access to diagnostic technologies could help improve cancer outcomes in this setting. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The majority (54%) of patients with cancer in Botswana present with advanced-stage cancer despite universal access to free health care, limiting the options for treatment and decreasing the likelihood of positive treatment outcomes. To reduce time from symptom onset to cancer treatment initiation, causes of delay in cancer care trajectories must be identified. The narratives of the patients interviewed for this study give insight into psychosocial factors, outlooks on disease, lower-level provider delays, and health system barriers that contribute to substantial delays for patients with cancer in Botswana. Identification of problems and barriers is essential for development of effective interventions to mitigate these factors, in order to improve cancer outcomes in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn A Brown
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Racquel E Kohler
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Oaitse John
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Mompati Mmalane
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Neo Tapela
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Ministry of Health Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Botswana-UPENN Partnership, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Oncology, Princess Marina Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Shahin Lockman
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Scott L Dryden-Peterson
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Ochomo EO, Atieli H, Gumo S, Ouma C. Assessment of community health volunteers' knowledge on cervical cancer in Kadibo Division, Kisumu County: a cross sectional survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:675. [PMID: 28946888 PMCID: PMC5613489 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer in women, with an estimated 530,000 new cases in 2012, representing 7.5% of all female cancer deaths. Of the estimated more than 270,000 deaths from cervical cancer every year, more than 85% occur in less developed regions. In sub-Saharan Africa, 34.8 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed per 100,000 women annually, and 22.5/100,000 women die from the disease. Despite the magnitude of this problem, Kenya still has a screening rate of 3.2%; therefore, cervical cancer prevalence has not been established. Community Health Volunteers (CHV) are required to create demand for screening in the community and capture this in the Ministry of Health (MOH) reporting tool MOH 514. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge of risk factors, signs and symptoms of cervical cancer and screening services’ availability amongst CHVs to enable them sensitize the community about cervical cancer in Kadibo Division, Kisumu County. Method In a cross-sectional study, a saturated sample of 188 CHVs was interviewed. The knowledge of cervical cancer was presented by use of frequencies and proportions; the relationship between demographic characteristics and knowledge was determined using chi-square. Results A majority, 161 (85.6%), were women, 47 (25.0%) were aged 40–44, 91 (48.4%) had primary education and 132 (70.2%) were small-scale farmers. A total of 128 (68.1%) had low, 60 (31.9%) had average and none had high amount of knowledge of risk factors. On average, 95 (50.5%) had low, 15 (8.0%) had average and 78 (41.5%) had high amount of knowledge of signs and symptoms. Finally, 77 (41.0%) had high, 40 (21.2%) had average and 71 (37.8%) had low knowledge of the availability of screening services. Education (p = 0.012, χ2 = 3.839), occupation (p < 0.0001, χ2 = 12.722), and health centre of attachment (p < 0.0001, χ2 = 71.013) were significant factors in determining the knowledge of risk factors. The knowledge of the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer was determined by the occupation of the CHVs (p = 0.030, χ2 = 15.110) and the years of work as a CHV (p = 0.014, χ2 = 8.451). Finally, the education level (p = 0.011, χ2 = 8.605), occupation (p = 0.002, χ2 = 18.335) and health centre of attachment (p < 0.0001, χ2 = 101.705) were significant in determining the knowledge of availability of screening services at the various health facilities. Conclusion The following were found to significantly influence the knowledge of CHVs about cervical cancer: level of education, occupation, health facility of attachment and years of service as a CHV. There is need, therefore, for training on cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Onyango Ochomo
- School of Public Health and Community Development, Maseno University, Private Bag, Maseno, Kenya.
| | - Harrysone Atieli
- School of Public Health and Community Development, Maseno University, Private Bag, Maseno, Kenya
| | - Sussy Gumo
- School of Arts and Social Sciences, Maseno University, Private Bag, Maseno, Kenya
| | - Collins Ouma
- School of Public Health and Community Development, Maseno University, Private Bag, Maseno, Kenya.,Ideal Research Center, P.O. Box 7244-40123, Kisumu, Kenya
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Maree JE, Parker S, Kaplan L, Oosthuizen J. The Information Needs of South African Parents of Children With Cancer. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2015; 33:9-17. [DOI: 10.1177/1043454214563757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Information is an important need in order for parents to be empowered to face their child’s cancer condition. To explore the information needs of parents of children with cancer treated at an academic hospital in the Gauteng Province of South Africa, a descriptive phenomenological design was selected. The study setting was an academic hospital in Johannesburg and purposive sampling included 13 parents who spoke English and were willing to participate in the study. Qualitative interviews were conducted and thematic analyses were used to analyze the data. Four themes emerged from the data: the shock of the diagnosis, information needs about the disease and investigations, living with the treatment, and communication of the information. There was no consensus on which information was needed at specific points in time and parents had different opinions on how information should be made available to them. Continuous assessment allowing individualized information, according to the preference of the parents in the language of choice, could possibly meet their information needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Parker
- University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lara Kaplan
- University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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