Understanding the challenges of delivering radiotherapy in low- and middle-income countries in Africa

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpo.2022.100372
• Publication Date: 2022-12-10T16:27:15Z
• Authors: Taofeeq Ige; Philippa Lewis; Charlotte Shelley; David Pistenmaa; C. Norman Coleman; Ajay Aggarwal; Manjit Dosanjh; Saad Khoudri; Ismail Zergoug; Higidio Miezi Edu...; Memory Bvochora-N...; Kuhle Fulu; Tlotlo Ralefala; Surbhi Grover; Anne Marthe Maiso...; Samba Richard Ndi; Ehab Attalla; Nashaat Deiab; Eskadmas Yinesu B...; George Felix Acquah; Emmanuel Amankwaa...; Hubert Foy; Ejidio Ngigi; Fadwa Badi; Ihab Elburi; Tovo Harivony; Aphousalle Kone; Siaka Maiga; Ahmedou Tolba; Seeven Mootoosamy; Salwa El-Boutayeb; Ainadine Momade; Wilfred Midzi; Melanie Grobler; Simeon Chinedu Aruah; Joel Kra; Magatte Diagne; Christoph Trauern...; Fawzia Elbashir; Nadir Abd Ellatif...; Hellen Makwani; Shaid Yusufu; Leila Farhat; Besbes Mounir; Kavuma Awusi; Godfrey Azangwe
• Keywords: Capacity Building; Workforce Development

Access to high quality radiotherapy (RT) continues be a major issue across Africa with having just 34% of its optimal capacity.We co-developed survey clinical, academic and policy stakeholders designed provide structured assessment the barriers enablers RT capacity building in Africa. The covered nine key themes including funding, procurement, education training. was sent professionals 28 countries responses underwent qualitative quantitative assessment.We received completed questionnaires from 26 African countries. Funding considered issue, specifically lack ring fenced funds Ministry Health for consistency revenue streams which relates prioritisation RT. In addition significant shortfall workforce disciplines, there is general formal training programmes. 13/26 reported some IAEA support Solutions identified improve access include a) increasing public awareness essential role cancer treatment; b) encouraging governments simplify procurement adequate funding equipment; c) opportunities all disciplines d) incentivizing staff retention.This provides unique information on challenges delivering expanding services reasons are heterogonous but one recommendation would national Cancer Control plans directly consider issues equipment servicing training.The study demonstrates importance mixed methods research inform overcome capability LMICs.