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Gbenonsi GY, Martini J, Mahieu C. An analytical framework for breast cancer public policies in Sub-Saharan Africa: results from a comprehensive literature review and an adapted policy Delphi. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1535. [PMID: 38849808 PMCID: PMC11157826 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18937-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in women and is a major public health problem worldwide. Despite the lower incidence rates of breast cancer in resource-limited settings, especially sub-Saharan Africa, there is a higher mortality rate compared to high-resource countries where the disease has a higher incidence. This makes breast cancer the second deadliest cancer in African women. These poor results reflect the weakness in public health policies. The aim of this paper is to contribute to the effective control of breast cancer by designing a framework for a comprehensive and systemic analysis of these policies in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS This research is based on a literature review that adopted a systematic approach followed by a modified policy Delphi involving breast cancer experts in Sub-Saharan Africa. We included narrative reviews and systematic reviews/meta-analyses published between 2015 and 2022 as well as official documents in the analysis. We integrated the World Health Organization's health system building blocks with Walt and Gilson's policy analysis triangle to analyse the information collected and develop our analytical framework. RESULTS A total of 22 reviews and documents were included in the study. Sixteen breast cancer experts from Sub-Saharan Africa participated in the first Delphi round, and nine participated in the second round. The different components identified for a comprehensive and systemic analysis of effective breast cancer policies can be classified into policy content divided according to the health system building blocks and related policy processes; individual, organized national and international policy stakeholders; and policy contexts. CONCLUSION This study enabled the design of a framework suitable for the comprehensive and systemic analysis of breast cancer control policies in Sub-Saharan Africa. This framework can be used as a checklist for stakeholders to guide the planning, implementation and evaluation of policies and specific breast cancer control programmes at the national and facility levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Yawavi Gbenonsi
- School of Public Health- Research centre for Social Approaches to Health, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jessica Martini
- School of Public Health- Research centre for Social Approaches to Health, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- European Social Observatory (OSE), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Céline Mahieu
- School of Public Health- Research centre for Social Approaches to Health, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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Solbana LK, Chaka EE. Determinants of breast cancer in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ecancermedicalscience 2023; 17:1624. [PMID: 38414952 PMCID: PMC10898878 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2023.1624] [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: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer (BC) is the first leading cancer sharing about 25% of the cancer burden among women globally. This study aimed to identify the determinants of BC in Ethiopia. Methods We comprehensively searched primary studies conducted in Ethiopia on associated factors of BC in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Hinari, Google, and Google Scholar) and available online until 2 June 2023. The necessary data were extracted from relevant studies and exported to STATA version 15 for analysis. The pooled odds ratio with its 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated using a random effect model. The finding was reported following preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. Results Five studies with 1,819 participants (792 cases and 1,027 controls) were included. The significant determinants of BC were age at menarche <12 years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.68-5.04), post-menopause (AOR = 2.37, 95% CI: 1.67-3.06), ever breastfeeding (AOR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.15-0.42), and family history of cancer (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.29-3.44). Conclusion In Ethiopia, the significant determinants of BC among women were age at menarche <12 years, post-menopause, Ever breastfeeding, and family history of cancer. We recommend that the concerned organizations consider the aforementioned factors in addressing the problem of BC in Ethiopia by increasing community awareness, promoting breast self-examination, and developing programs to reduce the increasing burden of BC in the study setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eshetu Ejeta Chaka
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, PO Box 19, Ambo, Ethiopia
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Magara MS, Mungazi SG, Gonde P, Nare H, Mwembe D, Madzikova A, Chagla LS, Pereira J, McKirdy MJ, Narayanan S, Grimsey L, Hicks J, James R, Rainsbury RM. Factors leading to the late diagnosis and poor outcomes of breast cancer in Matabeleland South and the Bulawayo Metropolitan Provinces in Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292169. [PMID: 37922284 PMCID: PMC10624273 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of female cancer deaths in Africa, and in Zimbabwe, >80% present with advanced disease. A Needs Project (NP) was carried out to determine the key factors responsible for delayed diagnosis and poor BC outcomes and to investigate possible solutions in 6 rural and urban districts of Matabeleland South and Bulawayo Metropolitan Provinces. METHODS A mixed method approach was used to collect data in 2 phases. Phase 1: an exploration of key factors leading to poor BC outcomes with >50 professional stakeholders and patient representatives. Phase 2: (i) Quantitative arm; validated questionnaires recording breast cancer knowledge, demographic information and perceived barriers to care administered to women and their relatives (Group 1) and health professionals (HPs) (Group 2). (ii) Qualitative arm; 10 focus group discussions with medical specialists and interested lay representatives (Group 3). The Cochran sample size formulae technique was used to determine the quantitative sample size and data was aggregated and analysed using SPSS Version 23™. Purposive sampling for the qualitative study selected participants with an understanding of BC and the NP. Focus group discussions were recorded and a thematic analysis of the transcriptions was conducted using NVivo9™. RESULTS Quantitative analysis of Group 1 data (n = 1107) confirmed that younger women (<30years) had the least knowledge of breast cancer (p<0.001). Just under half of all those surveyed regarded breast cancer as incurable. In Group 2 (n = 298) the largest group of health workers represented were general nurses and midwives (74.2%) in keeping with the structure of health provision in Zimbabwe. Analysis confirmed a strong association between age and awareness of BC incidence (p = 0.002) with respondents aged 30-39 years being both the largest group represented and the least knowledgeable, independent of speciality. Nearly all respondents (90%) supported decentralisation of appropriate breast surgical services to provincial and district hospitals backed up by specialist training. Thematic analysis of focus group discussions (Group 3) identified the following as important contributors to late BC diagnosis and poor outcomes: (i) presentation is delayed by poorly educated women and their families who fear BC and high treatment costs (ii) referral is delayed by health professionals with no access to training, skills or diagnostic equipment (iii), treatment is delayed by a disorganised, over-centralized patient pathway, and a lack of specialist care and inter-disciplinary communication. CONCLUSION This study confirms that the reasons for poor BC outcomes in Zimbabwe are complex and multi-factorial. All stakeholders support better user and provider education, diagnostic service reconfiguration, targeted funding, and specialist training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munyaradzi S. Magara
- Department of Surgery, National University of Science and Technology Medical School, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Simbarashe G. Mungazi
- Department of Surgery, National University of Science and Technology Medical School, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Peeps Gonde
- Department of Polymer Technology, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Hausitoe Nare
- Department of Statistics, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Desmond Mwembe
- Department of Statistics, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Alex Madzikova
- Graduate School of Business, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Leena S. Chagla
- Burney Breast Unit, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St Helens, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Jerome Pereira
- James Paget University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norfolk, United Kingdom
| | - Mike J. McKirdy
- Clyde Breast Unit, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Paisley, United Kingdom
| | - Sankaran Narayanan
- Breast Unit, University Hospitals of North Midlands, Stoke-on Trent, United Kingdom
| | - Lis Grimsey
- Breast Unit, East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Eastbourne, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Hicks
- Burney Breast Unit, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St Helens, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth James
- Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Richard M. Rainsbury
- Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Winchester, United Kingdom
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Mapanga W, Ayeni OA, Chen WC, Jacobson JS, Neugut AI, Ruff P, Cubasch H, O’Neil DS, Buccimazza I, Čačala S, Stopforth LW, Farrow HA, Nietz S, Phakathi B, Chirwa T, McCormack VA, Joffe M. The South African breast cancer and HIV outcomes study: Profiling the cancer centres and cohort characteristics, diagnostic pathways, and treatment approaches. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002432. [PMID: 37874786 PMCID: PMC10597516 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
The South African Breast Cancer and HIV Outcomes prospective cohort (SABCHO) study was established to investigate survival determinants among HIV-positive and HIV-negative SA women with breast cancer. This paper describes common and unique characteristics of the cancer centres and their participants, examining disparities in pathways to diagnosis, treatment resources and approaches adopted to mitigate resource constraints. The Johannesburg (Jhb), Soweto (Sow), and Durban (Dbn) sites treat mainly urban, relatively better educated and more socioeconomically advantaged patients whereas the Pietermaritzburg (Pmb) and Empangeni (Emp) sites treat predominantly rural, less educated and more impoverished communities The Sow, Jhb, and Emp sites had relatively younger patients (mean ages 54 ±14.5, 55±13.7 and 54±14.3 respectively), whereas patients at the Dbn and Pmb sites, with greater representation of Asian Indian women, were relatively older (mean age 57 ±13.9 and 58 ±14.6 respectively). HIV prevalence among the cohort was high, ranging from 15%-42%, (Cohort obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) at 60%, self-reported hypertension (41%) and diabetes (13%). Direct referral of patients from primary care clinics to cancer centre occurred only at the Sow site which uniquely ran an open clinic and where early stage (I and II) proportions were highest at 48.5%. The other sites relied on indirect patient referral from regional hospitals where significant delays in diagnostics occurred and early-stage proportions were a low (15%- 37.3%). The Emp site referred patients for all treatments to the Dbn site located 200km away; the Sow site provided surgery and endocrine treatment services but referred patients to the Jhb site 30 Km away for chemo- and radiation therapy. The Jhb, Dbn and Pmb sites all provided complete oncology treatment services. All treatment centres followed international guidelines for their treatment approaches. Findings may inform policy interventions to address national and regional disparities in breast cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Witness Mapanga
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Human Development, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Oluwatosin A. Ayeni
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Wenlong Carl Chen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- National Cancer Registry, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Judith S. Jacobson
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Alfred I. Neugut
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Paul Ruff
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South Africa Medical Research Council Common Epithelial Cancers Research Centre, University of Witwatersrand Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Herbert Cubasch
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South Africa Medical Research Council Common Epithelial Cancers Research Centre, University of Witwatersrand Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Daniel S. O’Neil
- Yale Cancer Center and Department of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Ines Buccimazza
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Specialized Surgery, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Durban and Ngwelezane Hospital, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Sharon Čačala
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Departments of Surgery and Radiation Oncology, Grey’s Hospital, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Laura W. Stopforth
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Departments of Surgery and Radiation Oncology, Grey’s Hospital, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Hayley A. Farrow
- Departments of Surgery and Radiation Oncology, Grey’s Hospital, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Sarah Nietz
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Charlotte Maxeke Surgical Breast Unit, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Boitumelo Phakathi
- Charlotte Maxeke Surgical Breast Unit, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tobias Chirwa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Valerie A. McCormack
- Section of Environment and Radiation, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Maureen Joffe
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South Africa Medical Research Council Common Epithelial Cancers Research Centre, University of Witwatersrand Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Achan J, Kasujja FX, Opito R, Wabinga H, Orach CG, Mwaka AD. Factors associated with diagnostic and pre-treatment intervals among breast cancer patients attending care at the Uganda Cancer Institute: A cross-sectional study. Cancer Med 2023; 12:19701-19713. [PMID: 37787090 PMCID: PMC10587984 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most breast cancer (BC) patients in Uganda are diagnosed with advanced-stage disease and experience poor outcomes. This study examined the diagnostic and pre-treatment intervals and factors associated with these intervals among BC patients attending care at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI). METHODS This was a cross-sectional, facility-based study. Data were collected using structured questionnaire administered by trained research assistants and analyzed using STATA version 14.0. Modified Poisson regressions models were used to determine the strength of associations between independent variables and diagnostic and pre-treatment intervals. RESULTS The mean age (±SD) of the 401 participants was 47.1 ± 11.7 years. Four in 10 participants had stage III (41.9%; n = 168) and over a third (34.7%; n = 140) stage IV cancers. The median interval from first consultation to diagnosis, i.e. diagnostic interval (DI) was 5.6 months (IQR: 1.5-17.0), while the median interval from histological diagnosis to start of chemotherapy, i.e. pre-treatment interval (PTI) was 1.7 months (IQR: 0.7-4.5). Majority (85%, n = 341) of participants were diagnosed at ≥3 months from first consultation with clinicians. Participants with tertiary education and those who lived within 100-199 km from the UCI were about four times and twice more likely to be diagnosed early (DI <3 months from first consultation) ([aPR = 3.88; 95% CI: 1.15-13.0] and [aPR = 2.19; 95% CI: 1.06-4.55]), respectively. About half (48.3%; n = 176) of participants started chemotherapy within 1 month of cancer diagnosis. Patients who lived more than 300 km from the UCI were less likely to start chemotherapy within 1 month of histology diagnosis of cancer. [Correction added on October 17, 2023 after first online publication. The term ', i.e.' has been included in the results section in this version.] CONCLUSION: Majority of breast cancer patients are diagnosed late and in advanced stages. There is need to promote all efforts toward timely diagnosis when cancers are still in early stages by identifying factors responsible for prolonged diagnostic intervals among breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Achan
- Department of Community Health & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public HealthCollege of Health Sciences, Makerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Francis Xavier Kasujja
- Department of Community Health & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public HealthCollege of Health Sciences, Makerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Ronald Opito
- Department of Public Health, School of Health SciencesSoroti UniversitySorotiUganda
| | - Henry Wabinga
- Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Health Sciences, Makerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Christopher Garimoi Orach
- Department of Community Health & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public HealthCollege of Health Sciences, Makerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Amos Deogratius Mwaka
- Department of Medicine, School of MedicineCollege of Health Sciences, Makerere UniversityKampalaUganda
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of MedicineGulu UniversityGuluUganda
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Sauvaget C, Boutayeb S, Bendahhou K, Selmouni F, Belbaraka R, Muwonge R, Hassouni K, Lucas E, Alaoui L, Ibrahim Khalil A, Bennani M, Chami Y, Bekkali R. The journey of cancer patients and the quest to equity: findings from Morocco. Public Health 2023; 223:33-41. [PMID: 37597462 PMCID: PMC10547108 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rapid diagnostic and assessment pathways for cancer patients provide timely and effective care. This study took place in Morocco, where the majority of patients treated in the public sector are diagnosed at an advanced stage. The aim of this study was to determine the duration of different time intervals along the cancer patient pathway and to highlight problem areas so that strategies can be implemented to make the process more equitable and effective. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS Recently diagnosed cancer patients were recruited from four major oncology centres in Morocco; namely, Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, and Fez. A questionnaire survey was administered, including sociodemographic and medical information and questions on access to the oncology centre, beliefs, and opinions on the medical staff. The dates of symptom recognition, assessment, diagnosis referral, biopsy, and treatment initiation were collected. Different time intervals (patient, diagnosis, biopsy, and treatment) were estimated and their determinants were investigated. RESULTS A total of 812 patients were interviewed. The majority of participants were breast cancer patients. In total, 60% of participants were at stage III-IV. The main facilitators of cancer diagnosis confirmation and treatment initiation were easy access to diagnosis and treatment facilities, financial resources, personal history of cancer, time availability, late stage at diagnosis, advanced age, and private health insurance. The patient interval (i.e., time from symptom recognition to initial healthcare assessment) had a median duration of 30 days. The biopsy and treatment intervals were within the current international recommendations (7 and 28 days, respectively). However, the diagnosis interval (52 days) was twice as long as the recommended timeframes from the UK, Australia, and the World Health Organization (<28 days). CONCLUSIONS Interval targets should be defined to encourage health systems to be more equitable and effective and to ensure that cancer patients are treated within a defined timeframe.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sauvaget
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France.
| | - S Boutayeb
- National Institute of Oncology, Rabat, Morocco
| | | | - F Selmouni
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - R Belbaraka
- Oncology and Hematology Centre, CHU Mohammed VI, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - R Muwonge
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - K Hassouni
- Oncology Centre, CHU Hassan II, Fez, Morocco
| | - E Lucas
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - L Alaoui
- IQVIA Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - A Ibrahim Khalil
- Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - M Bennani
- Lalla Salma Foundation, Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Y Chami
- Lalla Salma Foundation, Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Rabat, Morocco
| | - R Bekkali
- Lalla Salma Foundation, Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Rabat, Morocco
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Mwamba M, Lombe DC, Msadabwe S, Bond V, Simwinga M, Sentoogo Ssemata A, Muhumuza R, Seeley J, Mwaka AD, Aggarwal A. A Narrative Synthesis of Literature on the Barriers to Timely Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2023; 35:e537-e548. [PMID: 37302880 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2023.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Poor cancer survival outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have been linked to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Here we present a detailed overview of the qualitative literature evaluating the barriers to receiving timely diagnosis and treatment of cancer in SSA. The PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO databases were searched to identify qualitative studies reporting on barriers to timely diagnosis of cancer in SSA published between 1995 and 2020. A systematic review methodology was applied, including quality assessment and narrative data synthesis. We identified 39 studies, of which 24 focused on breast or cervical cancer. Only one study focused on prostate cancer and one on lung cancer. When exploring factors contributing to delays, six key themes emerged from the data. The first theme was health service barriers, which included: (i) inadequate numbers of trained specialists; (ii) limited knowledge of cancer among healthcare providers; (iii) poor co-ordination of care; (iv) inadequately resourced health facilities; (v) negative attitudes of healthcare providers towards patients; (vi) high cost of diagnostic and treatment services. The second key theme was patient preference for complementary and alternative medicine; the third was the limited understanding of cancer among the population. The fourth barrier was a patient's personal and family obligations; the fifth was the perceived impact of cancer and its treatment on sexuality, body image and relationships. Finally, the sixth was the stigma and discrimination faced by patients following a diagnosis of cancer. In conclusion, health system, patient level and societal factors all influence the likelihood of timely diagnosis and treatment for cancer in SSA. The results provide a focus for targeting health system interventions, particular with regards to awareness and understanding of cancer in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mwamba
- Zambart, School of Public Health, Ridgeway Campus, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.
| | - D C Lombe
- Regional Cancer Treatment Services MidCentral District Health Board, New Zealand
| | - S Msadabwe
- Cancer Diseases Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - V Bond
- Zambart, School of Public Health, Ridgeway Campus, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK
| | - M Simwinga
- Zambart, School of Public Health, Ridgeway Campus, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - A Sentoogo Ssemata
- The Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM), Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - R Muhumuza
- The Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM), Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - J Seeley
- The Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM), Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - A D Mwaka
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - A Aggarwal
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK; Institute of Cancer Policy, King's College London, London, UK
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8
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Adler AJ, Randall T, Schwartz LN, Drown L, Matthews S, Pace LE, Mugabo C, Kateera F, Bukhman G, Baganizi E, Ng'ang'a LM. What women want: A mixed-methods study of women's health priorities, preferences, and experiences in care in three Rwandan rural districts. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023. [PMID: 36815725 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore Rwandan women's experiences, priorities, and preferences in accessing health care for non-pregnancy-related conditions and inform development of healthcare services related to these conditions among women of reproductive age at district hospitals and health centers in Rwanda. METHODS We used a mixed-methods, exploratory sequential design. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with Rwandan women and coded thematically. A cross-sectional quantitative survey based on the qualitative data was administered to women attending health centers. RESULTS Seventeen interviews and 150 surveys were conducted. Women identified conditions including back pain, gynecologic cancers, and abnormal vaginal bleeding as concerns. They generally reported positive experiences while accessing health care and knowledge of accessing health care. Barriers to care were identified, including transportation costs and inability to miss work. Women expressed a desire for more control over their care and the importance of maintaining their dignity while accessing health care. CONCLUSION These findings provide useful insights to inform development of non-pregnancy-related healthcare services for women in Rwanda according to their priorities and preferences. The reported end-user health concerns, barriers to care, and diminished control over their care point to a need to evolve health systems around user-tailored needs and design interventions optimizing access whilst promoting dignified care.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Adler
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - T Randall
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - L N Schwartz
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - L Drown
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - S Matthews
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - L E Pace
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - C Mugabo
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - F Kateera
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - G Bukhman
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Program in Global Noncommunicable Disease and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Partners in Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - E Baganizi
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - L M Ng'ang'a
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
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9
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Kesici Z, Yilmaz V. Insurance-based disparities in breast cancer treatment pathways in a universal healthcare system: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:112. [PMID: 36732811 PMCID: PMC9894738 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09108-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of healthcare system factors on treatment pathways for breast cancer has been studied extensively in lower-middle-income countries (LMICs), but in upper-middle-income countries (UMICs), this area is understudied. This article focuses on the experiences of breast cancer patients in Türkiye, a UMIC with a universal healthcare system. It explores variations in treatment pathways based on the type of health insurance provider (private or state). METHODS The study uses an exploratory qualitative method based on in-depth interviews with 12 breast cancer patients. The inclusion criteria were Turkish nationality, female gender, and having received treatment from a private hospital within one year of the interview. A purposeful sampling strategy was employed to recruit patients who had either social health insurance only or who had private health insurance in addition to their social health insurance. A two-stage thematic analysis of the interview data was conducted. First, we examined whether the type of insurance provider makes a difference in treatment pathways; we then identified healthcare system factors that explain these differences. RESULTS The study revealed two distinct pathways to treatment. These differ in terms of financial protection, service coverage, and patients' sense of equity. Patients with private insurance reported easy access to timely and comprehensive treatment. Those without, however, had to navigate complicated routes to treatment; they generally had to resort to seeking treatment from more than one hospital. We found two healthcare system factors that explained the differences: a failure to fully enforce the mandates of the state's social health insurance in the private hospital sector and growing reliance on private insurance to gain access to essential services. CONCLUSIONS Based on data from the Turkish case, we conclude that healthcare system factors are indeed influential in shaping treatment pathways for breast cancer in UMICs with universal healthcare. These factors include a failure to fully enforce the mandates of the state's social health insurance programme in the private hospital sector and a growing reliance on private insurance to gain access to essential services. We note that this contrasts dramatically with the situation in LMICs, where the main factors are low-quality care and shortages of medical staff, medicines, and technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Kesici
- grid.11220.300000 0001 2253 9056Social Policy Forum Research Centre, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Volkan Yilmaz
- grid.15596.3e0000000102380260School of Law and Government, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
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10
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Afaya A, Ramazanu S, Bolarinwa OA, Yakong VN, Afaya RA, Aboagye RG, Daniels-Donkor SS, Yahaya AR, Shin J, Dzomeku VM, Ayanore MA, Alhassan RK. Health system barriers influencing timely breast cancer diagnosis and treatment among women in low and middle-income Asian countries: evidence from a mixed-methods systematic review. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1601. [PMID: 36587198 PMCID: PMC9805268 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08927-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, breast cancer is the most common cancer type and the leading cause of cancer mortality among women in developing countries. A high prevalence of late breast cancer diagnosis and treatment has been reported predominantly in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), including those in Asia. Thus, this study utilized a mixed-methods systematic review to synthesize the health system barriers influencing timely breast cancer diagnosis and treatment among women in Asian countries. METHODS We systematically searched five electronic databases for studies published in English from 2012 to 2022 on health system barriers that influence timely breast cancer diagnosis and treatment among women in Asian countries. The review was conducted per the methodology for systematic reviews and reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, while health system barriers were extracted and classified based on the World Health Organization (WHO)'s Health Systems Framework. The mixed-methods appraisal tool was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. RESULTS Twenty-six studies were included in this review. Fifteen studies were quantitative, nine studies were qualitative, and two studies used a mixed-methods approach. These studies were conducted across ten countries in Asia. This review identified health systems barriers that influence timely breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The factors were categorized under the following: (1) delivery of health services (2) health workforce (3) financing for health (4) health information system and (5) essential medicines and technology. Delivery of health care (low quality of health care) was the most occurring barrier followed by the health workforce (unavailability of physicians), whilst health information systems were identified as the least barrier. CONCLUSION This study concluded that health system factors such as geographical accessibility to treatment, misdiagnosis, and long waiting times at health facilities were major barriers to early breast cancer diagnosis and treatment among Asian women in LMICs. Eliminating these barriers will require deliberate health system strengthening, such as improving training for the health workforce and establishing more healthcare facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agani Afaya
- grid.15444.300000 0004 0470 5454Mo-Im Nursing Research Institute, College of Nursing, Yonsei University, 50-1, Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722 Republic of Korea ,grid.449729.50000 0004 7707 5975Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Sheena Ramazanu
- grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Obasanjo Afolabi Bolarinwa
- grid.127050.10000 0001 0249 951XDepartment of Global Public Health, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, UK
| | - Vida Nyagre Yakong
- grid.442305.40000 0004 0441 5393Department of Preventive Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Richard Adongo Afaya
- grid.442305.40000 0004 0441 5393Department of Midwifery and Women’s Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Richard Gyan Aboagye
- grid.449729.50000 0004 7707 5975Department of Family and Community Health, Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Silas Selorm Daniels-Donkor
- grid.8241.f0000 0004 0397 2876Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Scotland Dundee, UK
| | - Ahmed-Rufai Yahaya
- Hariri School of Nursing, American University of Beruit, Beirut, Lebanon ,grid.460777.50000 0004 0374 4427Department of Internal Medicine, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Jinhee Shin
- grid.412965.d0000 0000 9153 9511Woosuk University, College of Nursing, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Veronica Millicent Dzomeku
- grid.9829.a0000000109466120Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Martin Amogre Ayanore
- grid.449729.50000 0004 7707 5975Department of Health Policy Planning and Management, Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Robert Kaba Alhassan
- grid.449729.50000 0004 7707 5975Centre for Health Policy and Implementation Research. Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
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11
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Nnaji CA, Ezenwankwo EF, Kuodi P, Walter FM, Moodley J. Timeliness of diagnosis of breast and cervical cancers and associated factors in low-income and middle-income countries: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057685. [PMID: 35121607 PMCID: PMC8819798 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Addressing the barriers to early breast and cervical cancer diagnosis in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) requires a sound understanding and accurate assessment of diagnostic timeliness. This review aimed to map the current evidence on the time to breast and cervical cancer diagnosis and associated factors in LMICs. DESIGN Scoping review. SOURCES MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane Library, Scopus and CINAHL. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Studies describing the time to diagnosis and associated factors in the context of breast and cervical cancer in LMICs published from 1 January 2010 to 20 May 2021. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA SYNTHESIS Two reviewers independently screened all abstracts and full texts using predefined inclusion criteria. The review was reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. Evidence was narratively synthesised using predefined themes. RESULTS Twenty-six studies conducted across 24 LMICs were included in the review, most (24/26) of which focused on breast cancer. Studies varied considerably in their conceptualisation and assessment of diagnostic time, events, intervals and delays, with a minority of the studies reporting the use of validated methods and tools. Patient-related intervals and delays were more frequently evaluated and reported than provider-related and health system-related intervals and delays. Across studies, there were variations in the estimated lengths of the appraisal, help-seeking, patient and diagnostic intervals for both cancers and the factors associated with them. CONCLUSIONS Despite the significant burden of breast and cervical cancer in LMICs, there is limited information on the timeliness of diagnosis of these cancers. Major limitations included variations in conceptualisation and assessment of diagnostic events and intervals. These underscore the need for the use of validated and standardised tools, to improve accuracy and translation of findings to better inform interventions for addressing diagnostic delays in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwudi A Nnaji
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Elochukwu F Ezenwankwo
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Paul Kuodi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Fiona M Walter
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jennifer Moodley
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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12
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Mamat WHW, Jarrett N, Lund S. Diagnostic Interval: Experiences among Women with Breast Cancer in Malaysia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.7833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The diagnostic pathway is critical for early breast cancer detection and prognosis improvement. Countries such as the United Kingdom, particularly England, have implemented faster diagnosis standards to ensure that patients receive a definitive diagnosis of cancer or are ruled out within 28 days of referral. However, there is a severe shortage of data on the experiences of breast cancer patients in Malaysia during the diagnostic interval.
AIM: This study aimed to explore what happened to the women during the diagnostic phase prior to confirmation of breast cancer.
METHODOLOGY: Purposive sampling was applied, and 14 participants were recruited from two government hospitals. The participants took part in in-depth, face-to-face, one-time, and audio-recorded interviews. All the interviews were subsequently transcribed verbatim and analyzed using narrative analysis.
RESULTS: The diagnostic interval for the women in this study was 1–3 months from first medical contact till diagnosis. Four themes were identified during the analysis for the diagnostic interval: 1) Women who are suspected of having breast cancer; 2) Women who experience false reassurance; 3) Woman who experience delayed referral; and 4) Women who experience inconclusive investigation results.
CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that early warning signs of breast cancer may prompt doctors to take immediate action. However, unexpected delays may occur as a result of staffing and system issues in the healthcare system. Healthcare professionals should aggressively refer patients with typical symptoms and actively follow-up with patients who present with atypical symptoms in the community. Continuing education for healthcare professionals is necessary to improve diagnostic and referral procedures.
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13
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Karamagi HC, Ben Charif A, Ngusbrhan Kidane S, Yohanes T, Kariuki D, Titus M, Batungwanayo C, Seydi ABW, Berhane A, Nzinga J, Njuguna D, Kipruto HK, Andrews Annan E, Droti B. Investments for effective functionality of health systems towards Universal Health Coverage in Africa: A scoping review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0001076. [PMID: 36962623 PMCID: PMC10021830 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The health challenges in Africa underscore the importance of effectively investing in health systems. Unfortunately, there is no information on systems investments adequate for an effective functional health system. We aimed to address this by conducting a scoping review of existing evidence following the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis and preregistered with the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/bvg4z). We included any empirical research describing interventions that contributed to the functionality of health systems in Africa or any low-income or lower-middle-income regions. We searched Web of Science, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and ERIC from their inception, and hand-searched other relevant sources. We summarized data using a narrative approach involving thematic syntheses and descriptive statistics. We identified 554 unique reports describing 575 interventions, of which 495 reported evidence of effectiveness. Most interventions were undertaken in Africa (80.9%), covered multiple elements of health systems (median: 3), and focused on service delivery (77.4%) and health workforce (65.6%). Effective interventions contributed to improving single (35.6%) or multiple (64.4%) capacities of health systems: access to essential services (75.6%), quality of care (70.5%), demand for essential services (38.6%), or health systems resilience (13.5%). For example, telemedicine models which covered software (technologies) and hardware (health workers) elements were used as a strategy to address issues of access to essential services. We inventoried these effective interventions for improving health systems functionality in Africa. Further analyses could deepen understanding of how such interventions differ in their incorporation of evidence for potential scale across African countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humphrey Cyprian Karamagi
- Data Analytics and Knowledge Management, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | | | - Solyana Ngusbrhan Kidane
- Data Analytics and Knowledge Management, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Tewelde Yohanes
- Division of Policy and Planning, Ministry of Health, Asmara, Eritrea
| | | | | | | | - Aminata Binetou-Wahebine Seydi
- Data Analytics and Knowledge Management, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Araia Berhane
- Conmmunicable Diseases Control Division, Ministry of Health, Asmara, Eritrea
| | - Jacinta Nzinga
- Health Services Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Njuguna
- Health Economist, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hillary Kipchumba Kipruto
- Essential Drugs and Medicines, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Edith Andrews Annan
- Essential Drugs and Medicines, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Benson Droti
- Health Information Systems, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
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