1
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Swart NC, Lebelonyane R, Gutterman EM, Legwaila M, Friebel-Klingner TM, Antony R, Mayer T, Sharma K, Lall N, Kania B, Gaolathe T, Ralefala T, Ndaba V, Leselwa T, Vuylsteke P, Marlink R. Expanding Geographical Access to Cancer Care in Botswana: Current Status and Future Prospects. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2400196. [PMID: 39348622 DOI: 10.1200/go.24.00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/02/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The growing cancer burden in Botswana has been linked to aging, lifestyle factors, and high HIV infection prevalence. The government has designated four geographically distributed hospitals as public oncology centers (POCs). A needs assessment was undertaken to ascertain the characteristics of cancer care at these centers. METHODS A multisite cross-sectional survey study of cancer care was conducted with oncology staff at Princess Marina Hospital (PMH), Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital (NRH), Sekgoma Memorial Hospital (SMH), and Letsholathebe II Memorial Hospital (LMH) from February to April 2021. At each POC, a focal person (experienced nurse working in oncology) identified relevant oncology staff and confirmed service availability. RESULTS Only PMH and NRH had a broad array of diagnostic, surgical, and treatment services. In addition, PMH was the only center with a a dedicated inpatient oncology service, a multidisciplinary committee to review patients, and a palliative care team. To support the only national cancer screening program, for cervical cancer, all POCs offered Pap tests. Mammography, available at PMH and NRH, was used solely for diagnosis. Patients from POCs requiring radiation therapy were referred to Gaborone Private Hospital at government expense. For perceived service availability, 51 staff, mainly oncologists, physicians, and nurses, were surveyed (66% based at PMH). Perceptions of services revealed a few concerns, for example, numerous staff considered hysterectomies for cervical cancer available when they were only performed at PMH. CONCLUSION Despite Botswana's efforts to increase the proximity of cancer services to patients, there are marked gaps, particularly at the two district-level POCs, SMH and LMH. In the future, SMH and LMH could provide selected services for specific prevalent cancers on-site, as well as follow-up and palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman C Swart
- School of Nursing, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Refeletswe Lebelonyane
- Botswana Rutgers Partnership for Health, Gaborone, Botswana
- School of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Elane M Gutterman
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | | | | | - Reena Antony
- Botswana Rutgers Partnership for Health, Gaborone, Botswana
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Tina Mayer
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Kirthana Sharma
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Naveena Lall
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Brooke Kania
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Tendani Gaolathe
- Botswana Rutgers Partnership for Health, Gaborone, Botswana
- School of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Tlotlo Ralefala
- Botswana Rutgers Partnership for Health, Gaborone, Botswana
- School of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Botswana Ministry of Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | | | - Peter Vuylsteke
- Botswana Rutgers Partnership for Health, Gaborone, Botswana
- School of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Richard Marlink
- Botswana Rutgers Partnership for Health, Gaborone, Botswana
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ
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2
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Sharma K, Baghirova-Busang L, Abkenari S, Gulubane G, Rana C, Vuylsteke P, Marlink R, Gaolathe T, Masupe T. Breast cancer patient experiences in the Botswana health system: Is it time for patient navigators? J Cancer Policy 2023; 38:100449. [PMID: 37890667 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpo.2023.100449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New models of care are required to support women with breast cancer due to rising incidence and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study gives voice to the experiences of advanced-stage breast cancer patients in the Botswana healthcare system, to guide improved service provision and the potential utility of patient navigator (PN) programs. METHODS focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted with advanced-stage breast cancer patients recruited from the oncology ward of the public Princess Marina Hospital located in Gaborone, Botswana. RESULTS FGDs included 7 female breast cancer patients and their 7 caregivers (2 male and 5 females). Findings fell into the following themes: experiences with cancer diagnosis, experiences with treatment, roles of caregivers, information needs, views on cancer resources, and attitudes towards cancer research. The study identified several barriers across the cascade of care for breast cancer patients in the Botswana health system. These correspond to challenges with timely diagnosis and comprehensive management and highlight community level barriers to achieving the targets of the WHO Global Breast Cancer initiative (GBCI). CONCLUSION The study findings suggest PN programs have the potential to bridge barriers identified in the Botswana healthcare system by improving communication, meeting information needs, providing emotional or practical support, and by addressing logistical barriers to cancer diagnosis and treatment in Botswana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirthana Sharma
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| | - Leyla Baghirova-Busang
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Shaheen Abkenari
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Godwill Gulubane
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana; Botswana Ministry of Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Charmi Rana
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Peter Vuylsteke
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana; Botswana Rutgers Partnership for Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Richard Marlink
- Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Tendani Gaolathe
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana; Botswana Rutgers Partnership for Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Tiny Masupe
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
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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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Beltrán Ponce SE, Abunike SA, Bikomeye JC, Sieracki R, Niyonzima N, Mulamira P, Kibudde S, Ortiz de Choudens S, Siker M, Small C, Beyer KMM. Access to Radiation Therapy and Related Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Cervical and Breast Cancer Across Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review. JCO Glob Oncol 2023; 9:e2200218. [PMID: 36795990 PMCID: PMC10166435 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To better understand the barriers to accessing standard-of-care radiation therapy (RT) for breast and cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa and their impact on outcomes. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was completed with a medical librarian. Articles were screened by title, abstract, and full text. Included publications were analyzed for data describing barriers to RT access, available technology, and disease-related outcomes, and further grouped into subcategories and graded according to predefined criteria. RESULTS A total of 96 articles were included: 37 discussed breast cancer, 51 discussed cervical cancer, and eight discussed both. Financial access was affected by health care system payment models and combined burdens of treatment-related costs and lost wages. Staffing and technology shortages limit the ability to expand service locations and/or increase capacity within existing centers. Patient factors including use of traditional healers, fear of stigma, and low health literacy decrease the likelihood of early presentation and completion of therapies. Survival outcomes are worse than most high- and middle-income countries and are affected by many factors. Side effects are similar to other regions, but these findings are limited by poor documentation capabilities. Access to palliative RT is more expeditious than definitive management. RT was noted to lead to feelings of burden, lower self-esteem, and worsened quality of life. CONCLUSION Sub-Saharan Africa represents a diverse region with barriers to RT that differ on the basis of funding, available technology and staff, and community populations. Although long-term solutions must focus on building capacity by increasing the number of treatment machines and providers, short-term improvements should be implemented, such as interim housing for traveling patients, increased community education to reduce late-stage diagnoses, and use of virtual visits to avoid travel.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Adamma Abunike
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Jean C Bikomeye
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Rita Sieracki
- Medical College of Wisconsin Libraries, Milwaukee, WI
| | | | | | | | | | - Malika Siker
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Christina Small
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Kirsten M M Beyer
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
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5
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Friebel-Klingner TM, Bazzett-Matabele L, Ramogola-Masire D, Monare B, Ralefala TB, Seiphetlheng A, Ramontshonyana G, Vuylsteke P, Mitra N, Wiebe DJ, Rebbeck TR, McCarthy AM, Grover S. Distance to Multidisciplinary Team Clinic in Gaborone, Botswana, and Stage at Cervical Cancer Presentation for Women Living With and Without HIV. JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2200183. [PMID: 36395437 PMCID: PMC10166426 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00183] [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: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for women in Botswana. Barriers in access to cancer care can lead to later stages at diagnosis and increased mortality. This study evaluated access, defined as travel time from a patient's residential village to a multidisciplinary team clinic in Gaborone, with stage of cervical cancer at presentation. In addition, because of the high HIV prevalence in Botswana, we explored the association between travel time and HIV status. METHODS Eligible patients with cervical cancer presenting to the multidisciplinary team between 2015 and 2020 were included. Data were abstracted from questionnaires and hospital records. Google Maps was used to calculate travel time. Multinomial regression was used to examine travel time and cancer stage, and multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate travel time and HIV status. RESULTS We identified 959 patients with cervical cancer of which 70.1% were women living with HIV. The median travel time was approximately 2 hours. Using a reference group of stage I disease and a travel time of < 1 hour, the odds of presenting with stage II increased for patients traveling 3-5 hours (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.00; 95% CI, 1.14 to 3.52) and > 5 hours (OR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.15 to 4.19). There were no significant associations for stage III. For stage IV disease, the odds were increased for patients traveling 3-5 hours (OR, 2.93; 95% CI, 1.26 to 6.79) and > 5 hours (adjusted OR, 4.05; 95% CI, 1.62 to 10.10). In addition, the odds of patients presenting living with HIV increased with increasing travel time (trend test = 0.004). CONCLUSION This study identified two potential factors, travel time and HIV status, that influence access to comprehensive cervical cancer care in Botswana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara M. Friebel-Klingner
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Lisa Bazzett-Matabele
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Doreen Ramogola-Masire
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Barati Monare
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | | | | | | | - Nandita Mitra
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Douglas J. Wiebe
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Timothy R. Rebbeck
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Anne Marie McCarthy
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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6
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Momenimovahed Z, Momenimovahed S, Allahqoli L, Salehiniya H. Factors Related to the Delay in Diagnosis of Breast Cancer in the Word: A Systematic Review. INDIAN JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40944-022-00632-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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7
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Friebel-Klingner TM, Iyer HS, Ramogola-Masire D, Bazzett-Matabele L, Monare B, Seiphetlheng A, Ralefala TB, Mitra N, Wiebe DJ, Rebbeck TR, Grover S, McCarthy AM. Evaluating the geographic distribution of cervical cancer patients presenting to a multidisciplinary gynecologic oncology clinic in Gaborone, Botswana. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271679. [PMID: 35925976 PMCID: PMC9352107 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In Botswana, cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for females. With limited resources, Botswana is challenged to ensure equitable access to advanced cancer care. Botswana's capital city, Gaborone, houses the only gynecologic oncology multi-disciplinary team (MDT) and the one chemoradiation facility in the country. We aimed to identify areas where fewer women were presenting to the MDT clinic for care. METHODS This cross-sectional study examined cervical cancer patients presenting to the MDT clinic between January 2015 and March 2020. Patients were geocoded to residential sub-districts to estimate age-standardized presentation rates. Global Moran's I and Anselin Local Moran's I tested the null hypothesis that presentation rates occurred randomly in Botswana. Community- and individual-level factors of patients living in sub-districts identified with higher (HH) and lower (LL) clusters of presentation rates were examined using ordinary least squares with a spatial weights matrix and multivariable logistic regression, respectively, with α level 0.05. RESULTS We studied 990 patients aged 22-95 (mean: 50.6). Presentation rates were found to be geographically clustered across the country (p = 0.01). Five sub-districts were identified as clusters, two high (HH) sub-district clusters and three low (LL) sub-district clusters (mean presentation rate: 35.5 and 11.3, respectively). Presentation rates decreased with increased travel distance (p = 0.033). Patients residing in LL sub-districts more often reported abnormal vaginal bleeding (aOR: 5.62, 95% CI: 1.31-24.15) compared to patients not residing in LL sub-districts. Patients in HH sub-districts were less likely to be living with HIV (aOR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.38-0.90) and more likely to present with late-stage cancer (aOR: 1.78; 95%CI: 1.20-2.63) compared to patients not in HH sub-districts. CONCLUSIONS This study identified geographic clustering of cervical cancer patients presenting for care in Botswana and highlighted sub-districts with disproportionately lower presentation rates. Identified community- and individual level-factors associated with low presentation rates can inform strategies aimed at improving equitable access to cervical cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara M. Friebel-Klingner
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Hari S. Iyer
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Doreen Ramogola-Masire
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Lisa Bazzett-Matabele
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Barati Monare
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | | | - Nandita Mitra
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Douglas J. Wiebe
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Timothy R. Rebbeck
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Anne Marie McCarthy
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Molebatsi K, Iyer HS, Kohler RE, Gabegwe K, Nkele I, Rabasha B, Botebele K, Barak T, Balosang S, Tapela NM, Dryden-Peterson SL. Improving identification of symptomatic cancer at primary care clinics: A predictive modeling analysis in Botswana. Int J Cancer 2022; 151:1663-1673. [PMID: 35716138 PMCID: PMC10286759 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In resource-limited settings, augmenting primary care provider (PCP)-based referrals with data-derived algorithms could direct scarce resources towards those patients most likely to have a cancer diagnosis and benefit from early treatment. Using data from Botswana, we compared accuracy of predictions of probable cancer using different approaches for identifying symptomatic cancer at primary clinics. We followed cancer suspects until they entered specialized care for cancer treatment (following pathologically confirmed diagnosis), exited from the study following noncancer diagnosis, or died. Routine symptom and demographic data included baseline cancer probability assessed by the primary care provider (low, intermediate, high), age, sex, performance status, baseline cancer probability by study physician, predominant symptom (lump, bleeding, pain or other) and HIV status. Logistic regression with 10-fold cross-validation was used to evaluate classification by different sets of predictors: (1) PCPs, (2) Algorithm-only, (3) External specialist physician review and (4) Primary clinician augmented by algorithm. Classification accuracy was assessed using c-statistics, sensitivity and specificity. Six hundred and twenty-three adult cancer suspects with complete data were retained, of whom 166 (27%) were diagnosed with cancer. Models using PCP augmented by algorithm (c-statistic: 77.2%, 95% CI: 73.4%, 81.0%) and external study physician assessment (77.6%, 95% CI: 73.6%, 81.7%) performed better than algorithm-only (74.9%, 95% CI: 71.0%, 78.9%) and PCP initial assessment (62.8%, 95% CI: 57.9%, 67.7%) in correctly classifying suspected cancer patients. Sensitivity and specificity statistics from models combining PCP classifications and routine data were comparable to physicians, suggesting that incorporating data-driven algorithms into referral systems could improve efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kesaobaka Molebatsi
- Department of Statistics, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.,Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Hari S Iyer
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Racquel E Kohler
- Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kemiso Gabegwe
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Isaac Nkele
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Bokang Rabasha
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Tomer Barak
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana.,Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Neo M Tapela
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana.,Nuffield Department of Population Health, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Scott L Dryden-Peterson
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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9
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Dandadzi A, Chapman E, Chirenje ZM, Namukwaya E, Pini S, Nkhoma K, Allsop MJ. Patient experiences of living with cancer before interaction with palliative care services in Zimbabwe: A qualitative secondary data analysis. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13632. [PMID: 35712980 PMCID: PMC9542205 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cancer patients in Zimbabwe typically access health services with advanced disease, limiting treatment choices and lessening the likelihood of positive treatment outcomes. We outline experiences of patients with advanced cancer prior to interaction with palliative care services to identify targets for future intervention development to enhance care delivery in Zimbabwe. METHODS Participants were purposively sampled adult patients with advanced cancer. We adopted a thematic approach to guide a qualitative secondary data analysis exploring factors influencing support sought by participants, external factors influencing decision making across the disease trajectory and the process for seeking and accessing palliative care. RESULTS Participants reported fragmented and uncoordinated care, from initial symptom experience and throughout disease progression. A recurring notion of disjuncture was present through participants' experiences of gaps, breaks and discontinuity across the disease trajectory. Each step had a beginning and end without clear routes for transition with movement between steps as a result of happenstance or informal encounters. CONCLUSION Targets for intervention development at the patient and family level exist that may reduce the disjuncture currently experienced between need and care provision. A holistic response that incorporates engagement with policy actors is critical to addressing prominent financial constraints for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adlight Dandadzi
- Clinical Trials Research Centre, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Emma Chapman
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Z Mike Chirenje
- Clinical Trials Research Centre, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Simon Pini
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kennedy Nkhoma
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing Midwifery and Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew J Allsop
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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10
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Chipidza FE, Kayembe MKA, Nkele I, Efstathiou JA, Chabner BA, Abramson J, Dryden-Peterson SL, Sohani AR. Accuracy of Pathologic Diagnosis in Patients With Lymphoma and Survival: A Prospective Analysis From Botswana. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 7:1620-1632. [PMID: 34860565 PMCID: PMC8654434 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE With intense HIV epidemics, southern African countries have a high burden of classic Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). However, suboptimal access to pathology resources limits subtype classification. We sought to assess the diagnostic accuracy of specimens classified as lymphoma and to determine association between discordant pathologic diagnosis and overall survival. METHODS Seventy patients with CHL or NHL and treated at three Botswana hospitals from 2010 to 2016 were analyzed. Local pathologic assessment relied primarily on morphology. All cases underwent secondary US hematopathology review, which is considered gold standard. RESULTS The median follow-up was 58 months. The overall reclassification rate was 20 of 70 cases (29%). All 20 CHL cases were correctly classified in Botswana, and mixed cellularity was the most common subtype, diagnosed in 11 (55%) cases. Of 47 confirmed NHL cases, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was the final US diagnosis in 28 cases (60%), another aggressive B-cell NHL in nine (19%), an indolent B-cell NHL in six (13%), and T-cell NHL in four (9%). Common types of diagnostic discordance included NHL subtype reclassification (11 of 20, 55%) and CHL reclassified as NHL (7 of 20, 35%). Concordant versus discordant diagnosis after secondary review was associated with improved 5-year overall survival (60.1% v 26.3%, P = .0066). Discordant diagnosis was independently associated with increased risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio 2.733; 95% CI, 1.102 to 6.775; P = .0300) even after stratifying results by CHL versus NHL. CONCLUSION In this single prospective cohort, discordant pathologic diagnosis was associated with a nearly three-fold increased risk of death. Limited access to relatively basic diagnostic techniques impairs treatment decisions and leads to poor patient outcomes in low-resource countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fallon E Chipidza
- Harvard Radiation Oncology Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Mukendi K A Kayembe
- University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.,Ministry of Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Isaac Nkele
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Jason A Efstathiou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | | | | | - Scott L Dryden-Peterson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Aliyah R Sohani
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
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11
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Teshome B, Trabitzsch J, Afework T, Addissie A, Kaba M, Kantelhardt EJ, Getachew S. Perceived barriers to timely treatment initiation and social support status among women with breast cancer in Ethiopia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257163. [PMID: 34516552 PMCID: PMC8437283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Timely care is essential to increase breast cancer survival. However, patients in Ethiopia still face multilevel barriers on their pathway to timely treatment initiation. This cross-sectional study at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital Oncology Unit in Addis Ababa assessed systemic treatment initiation intervals of breast cancer patients and quantified the impact of socio-demographic and clinical factors, perceived barriers, and the patients´ perceived social support status on timely systemic treatment initiation (chemotherapy or hormonal therapy). A structured questionnaire was designed based on Pechansky´s "Concept of Access". Applying simple and multivariate logistic regression we analysed the influence of patients´ characteristics as well as their perceived barriers on timely treatment initiation. We measured social support with the Multidimensional Score of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and used the Wilcoxon Rank-Sum Test to assess its relationship with timely treatment initiation. Of 196 patients included into the study, 53% received systemic treatment within 90 days of their pathological diagnosis-the median treatment initiation interval was 85 days (IQR 123.5). Older women and patients diagnosed at late stages had higher odds of timely treatment initiation. Not being able to pay for services and lack of transport were most often perceived as barriers towards timely care. However, none of the perceived barriers showed a substantial influence on timely treatment initiation in the multivariate regression model. The patients´ perceived social support was found to be high, with an average MSPSS score of 73 out of 84 (SD 13,63). No impact of the perceived social support status on timely treatment initiation was found. The percentage of breast cancer patients waiting longer than 90 days from pathological diagnosis to systemic treatment initiation in Ethiopia remains unacceptably high. While women generally feel well supported by their social environment, costs and accessibility of treatment are perceived to be major barriers towards timely treatment initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethel Teshome
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Josephin Trabitzsch
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Tsion Afework
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Adamu Addissie
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Mirgissa Kaba
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Eva Johanna Kantelhardt
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
- Department of Gynaecology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Sefonias Getachew
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
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12
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Utilization and predictors of postmastectomy radiation receipt in an Oncology Center in Zimbabwe. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 189:701-709. [PMID: 34387794 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06338-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Few sub-Saharan African studies have ascertained utilization for postmastectomy radiation (PMRT) for breast cancer, the second most common cancer among African women. We estimated PMRT utilization and identified predictors of PMRT receipt in Zimbabwe. METHODS Retrospective patient cohort included non-metastatic breast cancer patients treated from 2014 to 2019. PMRT eligibility was assigned per NCCN guidelines. Patients receiving chemotherapy for non-metastatic disease were also included. The primary endpoint was receipt of PMRT, defined as chest wall with/without regional nodal radiation. Predictors of receiving PMRT were identified using logistic regression. Model performance was evaluated using the c statistic and Hosmer-Lemeshow test for goodness-of-fit. RESULTS 201 women with localized disease and median follow-up of 11.4 months (IQR 3.3-17.9) were analyzed. PMRT was indicated in 177 women and utilized in 59(33.3%). Insurance coverage, clinical nodal involvement, higher grade, positive margins, and hormone therapy receipt were associated with higher odds of PMRT receipt. In adjusted models, no hormone therapy (aOR 0.12, 95% CI 0.043, 0.35) and missing grade (aOR 0.07, 95% CI 0.01, 0.38) were associated with lower odds of PMRT receipt. The resulting c statistic was 0.84, with Hosmer-Lemeshow p-value of 0.93 indicating good model fit. CONCLUSION PMRT was utilized in 33% of those meeting NCCN criteria. Missing grade and no endocrine therapy receipt were associated with reduced likelihood of PMRT utilization. In addition to practice adjustments such as increasing hypofractionation and increasing patient access to standard oncologic testing at diagnosis could increase postmastectomy utilization.
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13
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Mburu W, Boamah Mensah AB, Virnig B, Amuasi JH, Awuah B, Porta CM, Osei-Bonsu E, Kulasingam S. Pathways to Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Among Women in Ghana: A Qualitative Study. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS 2021; 2:234-244. [PMID: 34318293 PMCID: PMC8310750 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2020.0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among Ghanaian women and most women are identified once they develop symptoms. Women then must navigate a complex health care system to get diagnosed and receive orthodox medicine. We describe Ghanaian women's pathways of care from breast cancer-related symptom detection to treatment receipt. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study using an empirical phenomenological approach. We used a purposive sampling technique to recruit 31 women with breast cancer who were receiving treatment at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, Ghana. They participated in semistructured in-depth interviews between November 2019 and March 2020. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a deductive coding approach. Results: Women navigate approximately nine steps from symptom detection to receiving orthodox breast cancer treatment. The breast cancer care pathway is not linear and women frequently move among different management approaches, including alternative therapy (faith healing and traditional herbal healing). All the women detected the symptoms themselves. Some of the women sought orthodox medicine due to information from the media. Conclusions: Alternative therapy providers play a critical role in the breast cancer diagnosis and care pathways in Ghana underscoring the need to formally integrate them into the health care system. Breast cancer awareness programs through the media and educational programs aimed at alternative therapy providers may reduce the time from symptom detection to receipt of orthodox medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waruiru Mburu
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Beth Virnig
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - John H Amuasi
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Baffour Awuah
- Ministry of Health, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Medical Oncology and Radiation, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Carolyn M Porta
- School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ernest Osei-Bonsu
- Department of Medical Oncology and Radiation, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Shalini Kulasingam
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Elmore SNC, Mushonga M, Iyer HS, Kanda C, Chibonda S, Chipidza F, Makunike Mutasa R, Muchuweti D, Muguti EG, Maunganidze A, Ndlovu N, Bellon JR, Nyakabau AM. Breast cancer in Zimbabwe: patterns of care and correlates of adherence in a national referral hospital radiotherapy center cohort from 2014 to 2018. Cancer Med 2021; 10:3489-3498. [PMID: 33973399 PMCID: PMC8178482 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Zimbabwe. Patients face socioeconomic barriers to accessing oncology care, including radiotherapy. We sought to understand patterns of care and adherence for women with breast cancer in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) with radiotherapy access. Methods A retrospective cohort was created for women with breast cancer evaluated at the Parirenyatwa Hospital Radiotherapy and Oncology Center (RTC) from 2014 to 2018. Clinical data were collected to define patterns of care. Non‐adherence was modeled as a binary outcome with different criteria for patients with localized versus metastatic disease. Results In total, 351 women presented with breast cancer with median age 51 at diagnosis (IQR: 43–61). Receptor status was missing for 71% (248). 199 (57%) had non‐metastatic disease, and 152 (43%) had metastases. Of women with localized disease, 34% received post‐mastectomy radiation. Of women with metastatic disease, 9.7% received radiotherapy. Metastatic disease and missing HIV status were associated with increased odds of study‐defined non‐adherence (aOR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.05, 3.28; aOR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.11, 4.05), while availability of ER/PR status was associated with lower odds of non‐adherence (aOR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.36). Conclusions Radiotherapy is likely underutilized for women with breast cancer, even in a setting with public sector availability. Exploring patient‐level factors that influence adherence to care may provide clinicians with better tools to support adherence and improve survival. Greater investment is needed in multidisciplinary, multimodality care for breast cancer in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shekinah Nefreteri Cluff Elmore
- Harvard Radiation Oncology Program, Boston, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Melinda Mushonga
- Parirenyatwa Hospital Radiotherapy and Oncology Center, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Caroline Kanda
- Parirenyatwa Hospital Radiotherapy and Oncology Center, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Shirley Chibonda
- Parirenyatwa Hospital Radiotherapy and Oncology Center, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Fallon Chipidza
- Harvard Radiation Oncology Program, Boston, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Faber Cancer Institute/Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rudo Makunike Mutasa
- Department of Pathology, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - David Muchuweti
- Department of Surgery, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Edwin G Muguti
- Department of Surgery, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Aspect Maunganidze
- Department of Surgery, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Ntokozo Ndlovu
- Parirenyatwa Hospital Radiotherapy and Oncology Center, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of Oncology, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jennifer Ruth Bellon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Faber Cancer Institute/Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anna Mary Nyakabau
- Parirenyatwa Hospital Radiotherapy and Oncology Center, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of Pathology, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Cancerserve Trust, Harare, Zimbabwe
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15
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McGinnis GJ, Ning MS, Bvochora-Nsingo M, Chiyapo S, Balang D, Ralefala T, Lin A, Zetola NM, Grover S. Management of Head and Neck Cancers With or Without Comorbid HIV Infection in Botswana. Laryngoscope 2021; 131:E1558-E1566. [PMID: 33098322 PMCID: PMC8046722 DOI: 10.1002/lary.29206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS Head and neck cancer (HNC) is the fifth most common malignancy in sub-Saharan Africa, a region with hyperendemic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infection. HIV patients have higher rates of HNC, yet the effect of HIV-infection on oncologic outcomes and treatment toxicity is poorly characterized. STUDY DESIGN Prospective observational cohort study. METHODS HNC patients attending a government-funded oncology clinic in Botswana were prospectively enrolled in an observational cohort registry from 2015 to 2019. Clinical characteristics were analyzed via Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression followed by secondary analysis by HIV-status. Overall survival (OS) was evaluated via Kaplan-Meier. RESULTS The study enrolled 149 patients with a median follow-up of 23 months. Patients presented with advanced disease (60% with T4-primaries), received limited treatment (19% chemotherapy, 8% surgery, 29% definitive radiation [RT]), and had delayed care (median time from diagnosis to RT of 2.5 months). Median OS was 36.2 months. Anemia was associated with worse survival (HR 2.74, P = .001). Grade ≥ 3 toxicity rate with RT was 30% and associated with mucosal subsite (OR 4.04, P = .03) and BMI < 20 kg/m2 (OR 6.04, P = .012). Forty percent of patients (n = 59) were HIV-infected; most (85%) were on antiretroviral therapy, had suppressed viral loads (90% with ≤400 copies/mL), and had immunocompetent CD4 counts (median 400 cells/mm3 ). HIV-status was not associated with decreased receipt or delays of definitive RT, worse survival, or increased toxicity. CONCLUSIONS Despite access to government-funded care, HNC patients in Botswana present late and have delays in care, which likely contributes to suboptimal survival outcomes. While a disproportionate number has comorbid HIV infection, HIV-status does not adversely affect outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2c Laryngoscope, 131:E1558-E1566, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwendolyn J McGinnis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, U.S.A
| | - Matthew S Ning
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, U.S.A
| | | | - Sebathu Chiyapo
- Department of Oncology, Gaborone Private Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Dawn Balang
- Department of Oncology, Gaborone Private Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Tlotlo Ralefala
- School of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Princess Marina Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Alexander Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Nicola M Zetola
- School of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Surbhi Grover
- School of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Princess Marina Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
- Botswana University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
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16
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Maillie L, Masalu N, Mafwimbo J, Maxmilian M, Schroeder K. Delays Experienced by Patients With Pediatric Cancer During the Health Facility Referral Process: A Study in Northern Tanzania. JCO Glob Oncol 2020; 6:1757-1765. [PMID: 33201744 PMCID: PMC7713565 DOI: 10.1200/go.20.00407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE It is estimated that 50%-80% of patients with pediatric cancer in sub-Saharan Africa present at an advanced stage. Delays can occur at any time during the care-seeking process from symptom onset to treatment initiation. Referral delay, the time from first presentation at a health facility to oncologist evaluation, is a key component of total delay that has not been evaluated in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Over a 3-month period, caregivers of children diagnosed with cancer at a regional cancer center (Bugando Medical Centre [BMC]) in Tanzania were consecutively surveyed to determine the number and type of health facilities visited before presentation, interventions received, and transportation used to reach each facility. RESULTS Forty-nine caregivers were consented and included in the review. A total of 124 facilities were visited before BMC, with 31% of visits (n = 38) resulting in a referral. The median referral delay was 89 days (mean, 122 days), with a median of two facilities (mean, 2.5 facilities) visited before presentation to BMC. Visiting a traditional healer first significantly increased the time taken to reach BMC compared with starting at a health center/dispensary (103 v 236 days; P = .02). Facility visits in which a patient received a referral to a higher-level facility led to significantly decreased time to reach BMC (P < .0001). Only 36% of visits to district hospitals and 20.6% of visits to health centers/dispensaries yielded a referral, however. CONCLUSION The majority of patients were delayed during the referral process, but receipt of a referral to a higher-level facility significantly shortened delay time. Referral delay for pediatric patients with cancer could be decreased by raising awareness of cancer and strengthening the referral process from lower-level to higher-level facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Maillie
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Nestory Masalu
- Department of Oncology, Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Judy Mafwimbo
- Department of Oncology, Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | | | - Kristin Schroeder
- Department of Oncology, Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Duke Global Cancer Program, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
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17
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Tumba N, Adewuyi SA, Eguzo K, Adenipekun A, Oyesegun R. Radiotherapy waiting time in Northern Nigeria: experience from a resource-limited setting. Ecancermedicalscience 2020; 14:1097. [PMID: 33082847 PMCID: PMC7532027 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2020.1097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Access and availability of radiotherapy treatment is limited in most low- and middle-income countries, which leads to long waiting times and poor clinical outcomes. The aim of our study is to determine the magnitude of waiting times for radiotherapy in a resource-limited setting. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study of patients with the five most commonly treated cancers managed with radiotherapy between 2010 and 2014. Data includes diagnosis, patients’ demographics and treatment provided. The waiting time was categorised into intervals (1) between diagnosis and first radiation consultation (2) First consultation to radiotherapy treatment (3) Decision-to-treat to treatment and (4) Diagnosis to treatment. Results A total of 258 cases were involved, including cervical (50%; 129/258), breast (27.5%; 71/258), nasopharynx (12.8%; 33/258), colorectal (5%; 13/258) and prostate cancers (4.7%; 12/258). Mean age was 48 (±12.9) years. Treatment with radical intent comprised 67% (178/258) of cases, while 33% (80/258) had palliative treatment. The median time from diagnosis to first radiation consultation was 40 (IQR 17–157.75) days for all the patients, with prostate cancer having the longest time – 305 days (IQR 41–393.8). The median time between the first radiation oncology consultations and first radiotherapy treatment was 130.5 (IQR 14–211.5) days; cervical cancer patients waited a median of 139 (IQR 13–195.5) days. The median time between diagnosis and first radiotherapy for breast cancer patients was 329 (IQR 207–464) days, compared to 213 (IQR 101.5–353.5) days for all the patients. Conclusion The study shows that waiting time for radiotherapy in Nigeria was generally longer than what is recommended internationally. This reflects the need to improve access to radiotherapy in order to improve cancer treatment outcomes in resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuhu Tumba
- Department of Radiology, Division of Radiation/Clinical Oncology Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos 930214, Nigeria
| | - Sunday Adeyemi Adewuyi
- Department of Radiotherapy & Oncology Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria 810105, Nigeria
| | - Kelechi Eguzo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Saskatchewan, S4N 2B7, Canada
| | - Adeniyi Adenipekun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University College Hospital, Ibadan 200284, Nigeria
| | - Rasaaq Oyesegun
- Department of Radiotherapy & Oncology, National Hospital Abuja 900211, Nigeria
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18
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Yang K, Msami K, Calixte R, Mwaiselage J, Dorn J, Soliman AS. Educational Opportunities for Down-Staging Breast Cancer in Low-Income Countries: an Example from Tanzania. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2019; 34:1225-1230. [PMID: 31435911 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-019-01587-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
While more than 90% of breast cancer patients in western countries survive for at least 5 years, the survival rate in Tanzania is less than 45% because of late stage at presentation. The aim of this study was to identify patient and health system factors related to early or late stages of a breast cancer diagnosis. The study was conducted at the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and included interviews with 196 breast cancer patients diagnosed with early (stage I/II, n = 44) or late (stage III/IV, n = 152) stage who were referred to ORCI from January 2016 to August 2018. The questionnaire elicited information regarding disease history, sociodemographics, barriers to navigating the health system, and patient attitudes towards breast cancer. More early-stage patients (54.5%) stated history of previous breast examinations before their initial diagnosis compared to late-stage patients (19.7%) (p = < 0.001). Financial restraints were cited more often as barriers to diagnosis among late-stage presentation patients (55.7%) compared to early-stage patients (35.5%) (p = 0.047). Patients who were diagnosed at late-stage (47.5%) were also more likely to state time restraints as significant barriers to their diagnosis than early-stage patients (25.8%) (p = 0.041). Although the late diagnosis of breast cancer will take immense efforts of policy workers to resolve, this study offers significant opportunities for making immediate health system changes through patient and physician education that can aid in reducing diagnosis delay in Tanzania other low-income developing countries, and low-income communities within the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Yang
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Khadija Msami
- Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Rose Calixte
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Joan Dorn
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amr S Soliman
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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