RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Gynecological radiation oncology in sub-Saharan Africa: status, problems and considerations for the future
JF International Journal of Gynecologic Cancer
JO Int J Gynecol Cancer
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP 451
OP 456
DO 10.1136/ijgc-2021-002461
VO 32
IS 3
A1 Dorothy Lombe
A1 Barbara Chanda M'ule
A1 Susan C Msadabwe
A1 Ernest Chanda
YR 2022
UL http://ijgc.bmj.com/content/32/3/451.abstract
AB Gynecological malignancies in Africa form a significant part of the burden of disease. The high prevalence of HIV in some countries creates a heightened risk for development of human papilloma virus related cancers such as cervical, vulval and vaginal cancers. Radiotherapy is an important modality of treatment for cancer and in Africa compensates for the lack of adequate surgical services for a large proportion of cancers as well as being a cornerstone of treatment for locally advanced cancers and palliation. In this review we look at the status of radiotherapy services in sub-Saharan Africa and critical factors that influence its delivery with a focus on gynecological malignancies. This unveils that radiotherapy for gynecological cancers in sub-Saharan Africa is a significant example of the need for a holistic development approach across different sectors of the economy and different disciplines of medicine. The complexity of its management continues to expose the underdevelopment of health and financial systems and the lack of universal health coverage and social systems as we continue to see unnecessary morbidity and mortality due to the lack of organization. More systematic and scientifically robust investigations tailored to the various sub-Saharan Africa countries need to be conducted to elicit disruptive local solutions to the status quo.