Pediatric Oncology in Nigeria: A Panoramic View
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Date
2019-05-17
Authors
Akinsete, A.A.
Odugbemi, B.A.
Ogundowole, G.A.
Anene-Nzelu, U.U.
Temiye, E. O.
Akinsulie, A.A.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ASCO Publications
Abstract
PURPOSE:
A large number of children still die as a result of cancer in low- to middle-income countries, and factors such has poor infrastructure, inadequate human resources, and poorly developed health insurance are responsible for most of these deaths. Nigeria is a country with a young population and a struggling health system. We aimed to survey pediatric oncologists in Nigeria using an online survey instrument.
METHODS:
We surveyed the national group of pediatric oncologists using an instrument designed to assess manpower availability, infrastructural support, support services, and presence of radiotherapy and medications.
RESULTS:
A total of 14 institutions responded, represented by 24 oncologists of the 42 oncologists on the platform, with a response rate of 57.1%. Most of the oncologists had practiced for more than 10 years, but only two institutions had a dedicated pediatric oncology ward. There was no population-based pediatric oncology tumor registry. Molecular diagnostic capability was not available, nor was a structurally efficient radiotherapy support service. The centers also struggled with inadequate blood and blood product provision.
CONCLUSION:
Pediatric oncology services in Nigeria are still grappling with weak human capital, poorly developed infrastructure, weak regional and national referral systems, and poor support services.
Description
Staff publications
Keywords
pediatric , Children , Cancer , Health insurance , Research Subject Categories::MEDICINE
Citation
Akinsete AM, Odugbemi BA, Ogundowole GE, Anene-Nzelu UU, Temiye E, Akinsulie A. Pediatric Oncology in Nigeria: A Panoramic View. J Glob Oncol. 2019 Jul;5:1-7. doi: 10.1200/JGO.18.00231.