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Klootwijk L, Osamong LA, Langat S, Njuguna F, Kimaiyo S, Vik TA, Kaspers G, Mostert S. Childhood Cancer Awareness Program in Bungoma County, Kenya. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2024:10.1007/s13187-024-02468-z. [PMID: 38907906 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-024-02468-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Awareness could play a key role in reducing underdiagnosis and accelerating referral of childhood cancer in low- and middle-income countries and ultimately improve outcomes. This study describes the implementation of a childhood cancer awareness program in Bungoma County in Kenya, containing five components: (1) baseline data collection of primary healthcare facilities; (2) live training session for healthcare providers (HCP); (3) early warning signs posters; (4) online SMS course for HCP; and (5) radio campaign. METHODS This study was conducted between January and June 2023. All 144 primary healthcare facilities (level 2 and 3 health facilities) within Bungoma County were visited by the field team. RESULTS All 125 level 2 (87%) and 19 level 3 (13%) facilities participated in the study. National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) failed to cover services in 37 (26%) facilities. HCP were more often reported absent at level 3 (89%) than level 2 (64%) facilities (P = 0.034). The 144 live training sessions were attended by over 2000 HCP. Distribution of 144 early warning signs posters resulted in 50 phone calls about suspected childhood cancer cases. Sixteen children were later confirmed with childhood cancer and treated. Online SMS learning was completed by 890 HCP. Knowledge mean scores improved between pre-test (7.1) and post-test (8.1; P < 0.001). Finally, 540 radio messages about childhood cancer and a live question-and-answer session were broadcasted. CONCLUSION This study described the implementation of a childhood cancer awareness program in Kenya involving both HCP and the general public. The program improved HCP's knowledge and increased the number of referrals for children with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Klootwijk
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Sandra Langat
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Festus Njuguna
- Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Sally Kimaiyo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Terry A Vik
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA
| | - Gertjan Kaspers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Mostert
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Langat S, Njuguna F, Olbara G, Martijn H, Sieben C, Haverkort M, Njenga D, Vik TA, Kaspers G, Mostert S. Influence of health-insurance on treatment outcome of childhood cancer in Western Kenya. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:467. [PMID: 37452971 PMCID: PMC10349750 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07913-1] [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: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few governments in low and middle-income countries (LMIC) have responded favourably to the international plea for Universal Health Coverage. Childhood cancer survival in LMIC is often below 20%. Limited health-insurance coverage may contribute to this poor survival. Our study explores the influence of health-insurance status on childhood cancer treatment outcomes in a Kenyan academic hospital. METHODS This was a retrospective medical records review of all children diagnosed with cancer at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital between 2010 and 2016. Socio-demographic and clinical data was collected using a structured data collection form. Fisher's exact test, chi-squared test, Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard model were used to evaluate relationships between treatment outcomes and patient characteristics. Study was approved by Institutional Research Ethics Committee. FINDINGS From 2010-2016, 879 children were newly diagnosed with cancer. Among 763 patients whose records were available, 28% abandoned treatment, 23% died and 17% had progressive/relapsed disease resulting in 32% event-free survival. In total 280 patients (37%) had health-insurance at diagnosis. After active enrolment during treatment, total health-insurance registration level reached 579 patients (76%). Treatment outcomes differed by health-insurance status (P < 0.001). The most likely treatment outcome in uninsured patients was death (49%), whereas in those with health-insurance at diagnosis and those who enrolled during treatment it was event-free survival (36% and 41% respectively). Overall survival (P < 0.001) and event-free survival (P < 0.001) were higher for insured versus uninsured patients. The hazard-ratio for treatment failure was 0.30 (95% CI:0.22-0.39; P < 0.001) for patients insured at diagnosis and 0.32 (95% CI:0.24-0.41; P < 0.001) for patients insured during treatment in relation to those without insurance. INTERPRETATION Our study highlights the need for Universal Health Coverage in LMIC. Children without health-insurance had significantly lower survival. Childhood cancer treatment outcomes can be ameliorated by strategies that improve health-insurance access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Langat
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Festus Njuguna
- Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Gilbert Olbara
- Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Hugo Martijn
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cenne Sieben
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Moniek Haverkort
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis Njenga
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Terry A Vik
- Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Gertjan Kaspers
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Mostert
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Kiros M, Memirie ST, Tolla MTT, Palm MT, Hailu D, Norheim OF. Cost-effectiveness of running a paediatric oncology unit in Ethiopia. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e068210. [PMID: 36918241 PMCID: PMC10016307 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the cost-effectiveness of running a paediatric oncology unit in Ethiopia to inform the revision of the Ethiopia Essential Health Service Package (EEHSP), which ranks the treatment of childhood cancers at a low and medium priority. METHODS We built a decision analytical model-a decision tree-to estimate the cost-effectiveness of running a paediatric oncology unit compared with a do-nothing scenario (no paediatric oncology care) from a healthcare provider perspective. We used the recently (2018-2019) conducted costing estimate for running the paediatric oncology unit at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) and employed a mixed costing approach (top-down and bottom-up). We used data on health outcomes from other studies in similar settings to estimate the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) averted of running a paediatric oncology unit compared with a do-nothing scenario over a lifetime horizon. Both costs and effects were discounted (3%) to the present value. The primary outcome was incremental cost in US dollars (USDs) per DALY averted, and we used a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of 50% of the Ethiopian gross domestic product per capita (USD 477 in 2019). Uncertainty was tested using one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. RESULTS The incremental cost and DALYs averted per child treated in the paediatric oncology unit at TASH were USD 876 and 2.4, respectively, compared with no paediatric oncology care. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of running a paediatric oncology unit was USD 361 per DALY averted, and it was cost-effective in 90% of 100 000 Monte Carlo iterations at a USD 477 WTP threshold. CONCLUSIONS The provision of paediatric cancer services using a specialised oncology unit is most likely cost-effective in Ethiopia, at least for easily treatable cancer types in centres with minimal to moderate capability. We recommend reassessing the priority-level decision of childhood cancer treatment in the current EEHSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizan Kiros
- Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Solomon Tessema Memirie
- Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Addis Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mieraf Taddesse Taddesse Tolla
- Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Michael Tekle Palm
- Department of Health Financing, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Hailu
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ole F Norheim
- Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Severance TS, Njuguna F, Olbara G, Kugo M, Langat S, Mostert S, Klootwijk L, Skiles J, Coven SL, Overholt KM, Kaspers G, Vik TA. An evaluation of the disparities affecting the underdiagnosis of pediatric cancer in Western Kenya. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29768. [PMID: 35593641 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29768] [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: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Western Kenya is home to approximately 24 million people, with 10 million children under the age of 15 years.1 Based on estimates of cancer incidence in similar populations from around the world, approximately 1500 patients should be diagnosed with pediatric cancer each year. This article describes the international collaboration that investigates potential barriers preventing the effective diagnosis of pediatric patients with cancer. METHODS Here, we describe a multidisciplinary and sequential approach to better evaluate the complex factors affecting the lack of appropriate diagnosis of pediatric cancer in Western Kenya. RESULTS Internal review at a large tertiary hospital noted 200-250 patients were diagnosed annually, suggesting the remaining 75%-80% of patients go undiagnosed and do not receive treatment. Following our screening process at a local referring hospital, 41 malaria slides demonstrated both morphologic and genetic evidence of leukemia. Knowledge assessments of local providers at referring institutions suggested a lack of education and training as the factors that contribute to lower rates of diagnosis. DISCUSSION Through a multi-step approach, our teams were better able to isolate potential issues impeding the appropriate and timely diagnosis of pediatric cancer in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler S Severance
- Department of Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA.,Riley Hospital Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | | | | | - Maureen Kugo
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | | | - Saskia Mostert
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Larissa Klootwijk
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jodi Skiles
- Department of Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA.,Riley Hospital Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Scott L Coven
- Department of Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA.,Riley Hospital Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kathleen M Overholt
- Department of Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA.,Riley Hospital Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Gertjan Kaspers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Terry A Vik
- Department of Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA.,Riley Hospital Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
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Mirutse MK, Tolla MT, Memirie ST, Palm MT, Hailu D, Abdi KA, Buli ED, Norheim OF. The magnitude and perceived reasons for childhood cancer treatment abandonment in Ethiopia: from health care providers' perspective. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1014. [PMID: 35941600 PMCID: PMC9361525 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08188-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Treatment abandonment is one of major reasons for childhood cancer treatment failure and low survival rate in low- and middle-income countries. Ethiopia plans to reduce abandonment rate by 60% (2019–2023), but baseline data and information about the contextual risk factors that influence treatment abandonment are scarce. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted from September 5 to 22, 2021, on the three major pediatric oncology centers in Ethiopia. Data on the incidence and reasons for treatment abandonment were obtained from healthcare professionals. We were unable to obtain data about the patients’ or guardians’ perspective because the information available in the cancer registry was incomplete to contact adequate number of respondents. We used a validated, semi-structured questionnaire developed by the International Society of Pediatric Oncology Abandonment Technical Working Group. We included all (N = 38) health care professionals (physicians, nurses, and social workers) working at these centers who had more than one year of experience in childhood cancer service provision (a universal sampling and 100% response rate). Results The perceived mean abandonment rate in Ethiopia is 34% (SE 2.5%). The risk of treatment abandonment is dependent on the type of cancer (high for bone sarcoma and brain tumor), the phase of treatment and treatment outcome. The highest risk is during maintenance and treatment failure or relapse for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and during pre- or post-surgical phase for Wilms tumor and bone sarcoma. The major influencing risk factors in Ethiopia includes high cost of care, low economic status, long travel time to treatment centers, long waiting time, belief in the incurability of cancer and poor public awareness about childhood cancer. Conclusions The perceived abandonment rate in Ethiopia is high, and the risk of abandonment varies according to the type of cancer, phase of treatment or treatment outcome. Therefore, mitigation strategies to reduce the abandonment rate should include identifying specific risk factors and prioritizing strategies based on their level of influence, effectiveness, feasibility, and affordability. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-08188-8.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mieraf Taddesse Tolla
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Solomon Tessema Memirie
- Addis Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Daniel Hailu
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Ole F Norheim
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Outcomes of Lymphoma Among American Adolescent and Young Adult Patients Varied by Health Insurance-A SEER-based Study. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2022; 44:e403-e412. [PMID: 34486562 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000002314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Impacts of health insurance status on survival outcomes among adolescent and young adult (AYA, 15 to 39 years of age) patients with lymphoma in the United States are insufficiently known. This study aimed to clarify associations between health insurance status and overall survival (OS) estimates in this population. MATERIALS AND METHODS We examined 18 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registries in the United States and analyzed American AYA patients with lymphoma diagnosed during January 2007 and December 2016. Health insurance status was categorized, and Kaplan-Meier and multifactor Cox regressions were adopted using hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval. Probable baseline confounding was modulated by multiple propensity score. RESULTS A total of 21,149 patients were considered; ~28% were 18 to 25 years old, and 63.5% and 7.5% had private and no insurance, respectively. Private insurance rates increased in the 18 to 25 age group (60.1% to 6.1%, P<0.001) following the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), and lymphoma survival rates improved slightly 1 to 5 years postdiagnosis. Five-year OS rates decreased with age (93.9%, 90.4%, and 87.0% at 15 to 17, 18 to 25, and 26 to 39, respectively) and differed among insurance conditions (81.7%, 79.2%, 89.2%, and 92.0% for uninsured, Medicaid, insured, and insured/no specifics, respectively). Risk of death was significantly higher for those with Medicaid or no insurance than for those with private insurance in multiple propensity score-adjusted models (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]=1.07 [1.03-1.12]), independent of stage at diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS No or insufficient insurance was linked to poor OS in our sample in exposure-outcome association analysis. Insurance coverage and health care availability may enhance disparate outcomes of AYAs with cancer. The ACA has improved insurance coverage and survival rates for out sample. Nevertheless, strategies are needed to identify causality and eliminate disparities.
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Schroeder K, Maiarana J, Gisiri M, Joo E, Muiruri C, Zullig L, Masalu N, Vasudevan L. Caregiver Acceptability of Mobile Phone Use for Pediatric Cancer Care in Tanzania: Cross-sectional Questionnaire Study. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2021; 4:e27988. [PMID: 34889763 PMCID: PMC8701707 DOI: 10.2196/27988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a 60% survival gap between children diagnosed with cancer in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and those in high-income countries. Low caregiver knowledge about childhood cancer and its treatment results in presentation delays and subsequent treatment abandonment in LMICs. However, in-person education to improve caregiver knowledge can be challenging due to health worker shortages and inadequate training. Due to the rapid expansion of mobile phone use worldwide, mobile health (mHealth) technologies offer an alternative to delivering in-person education. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to assess patterns of mobile phone ownership and use among Tanzanian caregivers of children diagnosed with cancer as well as their acceptability of an mHealth intervention for cancer education, patient communication, and care coordination. METHODS In July 2017, caregivers of children <18 years diagnosed with cancer and receiving treatment at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) were surveyed to determine mobile phone ownership, use patterns, technology literacy, and acceptability of mobile phone use for cancer education, patient communication, and care coordination. Descriptive statistics were generated from the survey data by using mean and SD values for continuous variables and percentages for binary or categorical variables. RESULTS All eligible caregivers consented to participate and completed the survey. Of the 40 caregivers who enrolled in the study, most used a mobile phone (n=34, 85%) and expressed high acceptability in using these devices to communicate with a health care provider regarding treatment support (n=39, 98%), receiving laboratory results (n=37, 93%), receiving reminders for upcoming appointments (n=38, 95%), and receiving educational information on cancer (n=35, 88%). Although only 9% (3/34) of mobile phone owners owned phones with smartphone capabilities, about 74% (25/34) self-reported they could view and read SMS text messages. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess patterns of mobile phone ownership and use among caregivers of children with cancer in Tanzania. The high rate of mobile phone ownership and caregiver acceptability for a mobile phone-based education and communication strategy suggests that a mobile phone-based intervention, particularly one that utilizes SMS technology, could be feasible in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Schroeder
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States.,Department of Oncology, Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania.,Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - James Maiarana
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Mwitasrobert Gisiri
- Department of Oncology, Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Emma Joo
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Charles Muiruri
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, United States.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Leah Zullig
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.,Durham Veterans Affairs Center of Innovation to Accelerate and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Nestory Masalu
- Department of Oncology, Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Lavanya Vasudevan
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, United States.,Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
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Olbara G, van der Wijk T, Njuguna F, Langat S, Mwangi H, Skiles J, Vik TA, Kaspers GJL, Mostert S. Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment in an academic hospital in Kenya: Treatment outcomes and health-care providers' perspectives. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29366. [PMID: 34569156 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early deaths and treatment nonadherence are major reasons for low childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survival in low- and middle-income countries. This study assessed treatment outcomes of children presenting with ALL and evaluated perspectives of health-care providers (HCP) on ALL treatment at a Kenyan academic hospital. METHODS This was a combined retrospective medical records and cross-sectional questionnaire study. Treatment outcomes of 136 children diagnosed with ALL between 2010 and 2016 were collected. Questionnaires were completed by 245 HCP (response rate, 86%) between September and October 2016. RESULTS Childhood ALL treatment outcomes were death (30%), progressive or relapsed disease (26%), abandonment (24%), and event-free survival (20%). Of all deaths, 80% were early deaths (prior or during induction), whereas 20% occurred in remission. Probability of event-free survival at three years was 18%. Only 57% of HCP believed childhood ALL can be cured, with more doctors (96%) than other HCP (45%) believing in curability of ALL (P < 0.001). The majority of HCP (96%) thought that experienced doctors should put more time and effort into making parents understand the diagnosis and necessity to complete treatment. According to HCP, reasons for protocol nonadherence included parental financial difficulties (94%) and use of alternative treatment (79%). CONCLUSIONS Event-free survival for ALL in Kenya is low. The primary reason for treatment failure is early death from treatment-related complications. More efforts should be directed toward improving supportive care strategies. In the opinion of HCPs, improved communication with parents and supervision of junior staff will improve ALL treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert Olbara
- Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Thyra van der Wijk
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrjie Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Festus Njuguna
- Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi University, School of Medicine, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Sandra Langat
- Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Henry Mwangi
- Department of Health Information Management, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Jodi Skiles
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hemato-Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Terrry A Vik
- Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi University, School of Medicine, Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hemato-Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Gertjan J L Kaspers
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrjie Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Mostert
- Emma's Children Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrjie Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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9
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van Weelderen RE, Njuguna F, Klein K, Mostert S, Langat S, Vik TA, Olbara G, Kipng'etich M, Kaspers GJL. Outcomes of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia treatment in Western Kenya. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2021; 5:e1576. [PMID: 34811958 PMCID: PMC9575503 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a challenging disease to treat in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Literature suggests that survival in LMICs is poorer compared with survival in high‐income countries (HICs). Aims This study evaluates the outcomes of Kenyan children with AML and the impact of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics on outcome. Methods and Results A retrospective medical records study was performed at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, Kenya, between January 2010 and December 2018. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes were evaluated. Chemotherapy included two “3 + 7” induction courses with doxorubicin and cytarabine and two “3 + 5” consolidation courses with etoposide and cytarabine. Supportive care included antimicrobial prophylaxis with cotrimoxazole and fluconazole, and blood products, if available. Seventy‐three children with AML were included. The median duration of symptoms before admission at MTRH was 1 month. The median time from admission at MTRH to diagnosis was 6 days and to the start of AML treatment 16 days. Out of the 55 children who were started on chemotherapy, 18 (33%) achieved complete remission, of whom 10 (56%) relapsed. The abandonment rate was 22% and the early death rate was 46%. The 2‐year probabilities of event‐free survival and overall survival were 4% and 7%, respectively. None of the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were significantly associated with outcome. Conclusion Survival of Kenyan children with AML is dismal and considerably lower compared with survival in HICs. Strategies to improve survival should be put in place including better supportive care, optimization of the treatment protocol, and reduction of the abandonment rate and time lag to diagnosis with sooner start of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romy E van Weelderen
- Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Pediatric Oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Festus Njuguna
- Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi University/Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Kim Klein
- Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Wilhelmina Children's Hospital/University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Mostert
- Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Pediatric Oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra Langat
- Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi University/Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Terry A Vik
- Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Gilbert Olbara
- Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi University/Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Martha Kipng'etich
- Child Health and Pediatrics, Moi University/Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Gertjan J L Kaspers
- Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Pediatric Oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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10
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Karalexi MA, Pourtsidis A, Panagopoulou P, Moschovi M, Polychronopoulou S, Kourti M, Hatzipantelis E, Stiakaki E, Dana H, Bouka P, Ntzani EE, Petridou ET. Overall and event-free survival of childhood lymphoma in Greece: analysis of harmonized clinical data over a 24-year active registration period. Leuk Lymphoma 2021; 62:2107-2119. [PMID: 34114936 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2021.1907376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
We assessed event-free (EFS) and overall (OS) survival in 676 incident cases of childhood Hodgkin (HL) and non-Hodgkin (NHL) lymphoma actively registered in Greece (1996-2019). HL-OS5-year was 96% and NHL-OS5-year 85%, whereas HL-EFS5-year was 86% and NHL-EFS5-year was 81%, notably similar to the respective OS rates (HL: 95%, NHL: 85%) in developed countries. For HL, older age at diagnosis, high maternal education and close proximity to treatment centers were linked to remarkably favorable outcomes. By contrast, stage IV patients showed worse OS and EFS. HL patients with low levels of hemoglobin were associated with worse EFS (hazard ratio: 2.81, 95% confidence intervals: 1.09-7.22). OS (76%) and EFS (73%) were poor among high-risk NHL patients and those with increased LDH (71%). The identified predictors of poor disease outcome point to the need for intensification of individualized treatments. Ongoing clinical cancer registration entailing clinical components could contribute to use of state-of-the-art treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Karalexi
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Hellenic Society for Social Pediatrics and Health Promotion, Athens, Greece
| | - Apostolos Pourtsidis
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, "P&A Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Maria Moschovi
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Agia Sofia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Sophia Polychronopoulou
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, "Agia Sofia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Kourti
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Emmanuel Hatzipantelis
- Hematology-Oncology Unit, 2nd Pediatric Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eftichia Stiakaki
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Helen Dana
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department, "Mitera" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Panagiota Bouka
- Hellenic Society for Social Pediatrics and Health Promotion, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia E Ntzani
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Center for Evidence Synthesis in Health, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Eleni Th Petridou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Hellenic Society for Social Pediatrics and Health Promotion, Athens, Greece
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11
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Degroote S, Ridde V, De Allegri M. Health Insurance in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review of the Methods Used to Evaluate its Impact. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2020; 18:825-840. [PMID: 31359270 PMCID: PMC7716930 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-019-00499-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a scoping review with the objective of synthesizing available literature and mapping what designs and methods have been used to evaluate health insurance reforms in sub-Saharan Africa. We systematically searched for scientific and grey literature in English and French published between 1980 and 2017 using a combination of three key concepts: "Insurance" and "Impact evaluation" and "sub-Saharan Africa". The search led to the inclusion of 66 articles with half of the studies pertaining to the evaluation of National Health Insurance schemes, especially the Ghanaian one, and one quarter pertaining to Community-Based Health Insurance and Mutual Health Organization schemes. Sixty-one out of the 66 studies (92%) included were quantitative studies, while only five (8%) were defined as mixed methods. Most studies included applied an observational design (n = 37; 56%), followed by a quasi-experimental (n = 27; 41%) design; only two studies (3%) applied an experimental design. The findings of our scoping review are in line with the observation emerging from prior reviews focused on content in pointing at the fact that evidence on the impact of health insurance is still relatively weak as it is derived primarily from studies relying on observational designs. Our review did identify an increase in the use of quasi-experimental designs in more recent studies, suggesting that we could observe a broadening and deepening of the evidence base on health insurance in Africa over the next few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Degroote
- French Institute For Research on Sustainable Development (IRD), IRD Paris Descartes University (CEPED), 45 rue des Saints Pères, 75006, Paris, France
| | - Valery Ridde
- French Institute For Research on Sustainable Development (IRD), IRD Paris Descartes University (CEPED), 45 rue des Saints Pères, 75006, Paris, France
- Paris Sorbonne Cities University, Erl Inserm Sagesud, Paris, France
| | - Manuela De Allegri
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University Hospital and Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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12
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Palagyi A, Balane C, Shanthosh J, Jun M, Bhoo-Pathy N, Gadsden T, Canfell K, Jan S. Treatment abandonment in children with cancer: Does a sex difference exist? A systematic review and meta-analysis of evidence from low- and middle-income countries. Int J Cancer 2020; 148:895-904. [PMID: 32875569 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
In this systematic review and meta-analyses, we sought to determine sex-disparities in treatment abandonment in children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and identify the characteristics of children and their families most disadvantaged by such abandonment. Sex-disaggregated data on treatment abandonment were collated from the available literature and a random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to compare the rates in girls with those in boys. Subgroup analyses were conducted in which studies were stratified by design, cancer type and the Gender Inequality Index of the country of study. Eighteen studies were included in the systematic review and of these studies, 16 qualified for the meta-analysis, representing 10 754 children. The pooled rate of treatment abandonment overall was 30%. We observed no difference in the proportion of treatment abandonment in girls relative to estimates observed in boys (rate ratio [RR] 0.95, 95% CI: 0.79-1.15; P = .61). There was significant heterogeneity across the included studies and in the pooled estimate of RR for girls vs boys (both I2 > 98%). Subgroup analyses did not reveal any effect on abandonment risk. Risk factors for abandonment observed fell into three main categories: socio-demographic; geographic; and travel-related. In conclusion, a high rate of treatment abandonment (30%) was observed overall for children with cancer in included studies in LMICs, although this was variable and context specific. No evidence of gender bias in childhood cancer treatment abandonment rates across LMICs was found. Given that the risk factors for abandonment are context specific, in-depth country-level analyses may provide further insights into the role of a child's gender in treatment abandonment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Palagyi
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christine Balane
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Janani Shanthosh
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Australian Human Rights Institute, Faculty of Law, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Min Jun
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nirmala Bhoo-Pathy
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Thomas Gadsden
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Karen Canfell
- Cancer Research Division, Cancer Council NSW, Woolloomooloo, Australia.,Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Price of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephen Jan
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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13
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Langat S, Njuguna F, Kaspers G, Mostert S. Health insurance coverage for vulnerable children: two HIV orphans with Burkitt lymphoma and their quest for health insurance coverage in Kenya. BMJ Case Rep 2020; 13:13/8/e230508. [PMID: 32843443 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-230508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The United Nations and WHO have summoned governments from low-income and middle-income countries to institute universal health coverage and thereby improve their population's healthcare access and outcomes. Until now, few countries responded favourably to this international plea. The HIV/AIDS epidemic, a major global public health challenge, resulted in over 11 million orphans in sub-Saharan Africa. Extended families have taken responsibility for more than 90% of these children. HIV orphans are likely to be poorer and less healthy. Burkitt lymphoma is the most common childhood cancer in sub-Saharan Africa. If orphans need lifesaving chemotherapy, appointing legal guardians becomes necessary to access health insurance. However, rules and regulations involved may be unclear and costly. This hinders its access for poor families who need it most. Uninsured children risk hospital detention over unpaid medical bills and have lower survival. Our case report depicts the quest for health insurance coverage of two HIV orphans with Burkitt lymphoma in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Langat
- Department of Pediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Festus Njuguna
- Department of Pediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Gertjan Kaspers
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Mostert
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands .,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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14
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Suchman L, Hashim CV, Adu J, Mwachandi R. Seeking care in the context of social health insurance in Kenya and Ghana. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:614. [PMID: 32366310 PMCID: PMC7197151 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08742-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social Health Insurance (SHI) is widely used by countries attempting to move toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). While evidence suggests that SHI is a promising strategy for achieving UHC, low-income countries often struggle to implement and sustain SHI systems. It is therefore important to understand how SHI enrollees use health insurance and how it affects their health-seeking behavior. This paper examines how SHI affects patient decision-making regarding when and where to seek care in Kenya and Ghana, two countries with established SHI systems in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS This paper draws from two datasets collected under the African Health Markets for Equity (AHME) program. One dataset, collected in 2013 and 2017 as part of the AHME qualitative evaluation, consists of 106 semi-structured clinic exit interviews conducted with patients in Ghana and Kenya. This data was analyzed using an inductive, thematic approach. The second dataset was collected internally by the AHME partner organizations. It derives from a cross-sectional survey of social franchise clients at three social franchise networks supported by AHME. Data collection took place from February - May 2018 and in December 2018. RESULTS Many clients appreciated that insurance coverage made healthcare more affordable, reported seeking care more frequently when covered with SHI. Clients also noted that the coverage gave them access to a wider variety of providers, but rarely sought out SHI-accredited providers specifically. However, clients sometimes were charged for services that should have been covered by insurance. Due to a lack of understanding of SHI benefits, clients rarely knew they had been charged inappropriately. CONCLUSIONS Clients and providers would benefit from education on what is included in the SHI package. Providers should be monitored and held accountable for charging clients inappropriately; in Ghana this should be accompanied by reforms to make government financing for SHI sustainable. Since clients valued provider proximity and both Kenya and Ghana have a dearth of providers in rural areas, both countries should incentivize providers to work in these areas and prioritize accrediting rural facilities into SHI schemes to increase accessibility and reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Suchman
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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15
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Lam CG, Howard SC, Bouffet E, Pritchard-Jones K. Science and health for all children with cancer. Science 2019; 363:1182-1186. [DOI: 10.1126/science.aaw4892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Each year ~429,000 children and adolescents aged 0 to 19 years are expected to develop cancer. Five-year survival rates exceed 80% for the 45,000 children with cancer in high-income countries (HICs) but are less than 30% for the 384,000 children in lower-middle-income countries (LMICs). Improved survival rates in HICs have been achieved through multidisciplinary care and research, with treatment regimens using mostly generic medicines and optimized risk stratification. Children’s outcomes in LMICs can be improved through global collaborative partnerships that help local leaders adapt effective treatments to local resources and clinical needs, as well as address common problems such as delayed diagnosis and treatment abandonment. Together, these approaches may bring within reach the global survival target recently set by the World Health Organization: 60% survival for all children with cancer by 2030.
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16
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Elhassan MMA, Mohamedani AA, Osman HHM, Yousif NO, Elhaj NM, Qaddoumi I. Patterns, treatments, and outcomes of pediatric central nervous system tumors in Sudan: a single institution experience. Childs Nerv Syst 2019; 35:437-444. [PMID: 30610484 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-018-04032-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Studies of epidemiology, treatment modalities, and outcomes of childhood central nervous system (CNS) tumors in Sudan are scarce. To address this shortcoming, we evaluated baseline information about the epidemiology, treatment types, and outcomes of childhood CNS tumors at the National Cancer Institute, University of Gezira (NCI-UG) in Wad Madani, Sudan. METHODS We performed a retrospective health facility-based study of children with CNS tumors who were treated at the NCI-UG from January 2000 to December 2015. RESULTS A total of 62 (5.4% of all childhood cancers) pediatric patients with CNS tumors were identified over the study period. Tumors were more common among male children and involved the infratentorial compartment in 58% of cases. The median age at diagnosis was 9 years (range, 2-14 years). Approximately 60% (n = 37) of the study population had histology-determined diagnoses. Astrocytomas and medulloblastomas were the most common tumors in these cases. The mean time to diagnosis was 6 months (SD, 9). During the study period, the number of children with CNS tumors who were referred for treatment at the NCI-UG increased every year. Of the 37 patients who received surgical interventions, 8 received gross total resections, 20 received partial resections, and 24 received postoperative radiotherapy. The treatment abandonment rate was 11%. The 2-year and 5-year survival rates were 33% and 13%, respectively. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal a high incidence of poor outcomes for patients with CNS tumors in Sudan, which is most likely due to many distinct factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mohammed Ali Elhassan
- Department of Oncology, National Cancer Institute, University of Gezira, PO Box 20, Wad Madani, Sudan.
| | - A Abdalla Mohamedani
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Gezira, Wad Madani, Sudan
| | | | - N Osman Yousif
- Department of Oncology, National Cancer Institute, University of Gezira, PO Box 20, Wad Madani, Sudan
| | - N Mohamed Elhaj
- Department of Oncology, National Cancer Institute, University of Gezira, PO Box 20, Wad Madani, Sudan
| | - I Qaddoumi
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
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17
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Chantada G, Lam CG, Howard SC. Optimizing outcomes for children with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in low‐ and middle‐income countries by early correct diagnosis, reducing toxic death and preventing abandonment. Br J Haematol 2019; 185:1125-1135. [DOI: 10.1111/bjh.15785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Catherine G. Lam
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Memphis TNUSA
| | - Scott C. Howard
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center Memphis TN USA
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