Challenges and Prospects for Providing Radiation Oncology Services in Africa

Abstract

There are considerable challenges to meeting the demands of the impending cancer crisis in Africa. These include a rising incidence of cancer and cancer-related deaths, equipment and maintenance costs, and deficits in human resources and training. Addressing these issues would be crucial to tackling the increasing burden of cancer on the continent. Innovations in technology and collaborative efforts within the global oncology community have created promising solutions for establishing quality cancer care in Africa and eradicating the massive disparities that currently exist. A multifaceted approach that establishes access to quality radiation oncology services is needed to curtail this alarming trend. In this article, we describe the current status of radiotherapy services in Africa, barriers and opportunities to improve this integral component of comprehensive cancer care.

A scoping review of medical education research for residents in radiation oncology

“…This significant difference may have resulted from resource shortages in such developing countries. Despite the fact that cases of cancer and cancer-related deaths are continuously rising in Africa, African countries face considerable challenges with respect to equipment and human resources [9]. Under these circumstances, medical education research in these countries would be less of a concern and therefore underdeveloped.…”

Identifying barriers to treatment of childhood rhabdomyosarcoma in resource‐limited settings: A literature review

“…Indeed, more than half of patients with cancer for whom radiotherapy is indicated in low‐ and middle‐income countries do not have access to it, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which reports that approximately 30 African and Asian countries do not have access to any radiotherapy machines . As per IAEA estimates, only 4221 teletherapy machines are available in the developing world, whereas 4300 to 7000 units are required for patients with cancer . Investment in both the availability of radiation therapy modalities and related expertise, in addition to surgical oncology expertise, will likely have an important impact on ameliorating deficiencies in treatment of RMS and other solid tumors in these regions.…”

“…low-and middle-income countries do not have access to it, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which reports that approximately 30 African and Asian countries do not have access to any radiotherapy machines.35 As per IAEA estimates,37 only 4221 teletherapy machines are available in the developing world, whereas 4300 to 7000 units are required for patients with cancer. [35][36][37][38] Investment in both the availability of radiation therapy modalities and related expertise, in addition to surgical oncology expertise, will likely have an important impact on ameliorating deficiencies in treatment of RMS and other solid tumors in these regions.Importantly, a complete lack of data from LICs was noted during this review, and may reflect the lack of basic diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, and absence of local registries and human resources, suggesting a large magnitude of the problem in these settings. Basic registries, data collection, and establishment of NGOs for support of pediatric cancer care may help identify mechanisms to best address needs in LICs.…”

Experiences of barriers and facilitators to establishing and sustaining radiotherapy services in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A qualitative study

“…Sustaining radiotherapy facilities in LMICs is achievable but requires a capable workforce. Tailored in‐country education and training initiatives are emerging and have proven successful . Multiple opportunities for regional training, mentoring and network building have been created.…”

“…Tailored in-country education and training initiatives are emerging and have proven successful. [27][28][29] Multiple opportunities for regional training, mentoring and network building have been created. They include Africa Radiation Oncology Network (AFRONET) and Virtual University for Cancer Control by IAEA and "train-the-trainers" approach by Radiating Hope, RANZCR, and Medical Physics for World Benefit.…”