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Israels T, Arora RS, Sung L. The value of reporting on end-of-treatment outcome of patients in low-income settings. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30686. [PMID: 37728943 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Trijn Israels
- Collaborative African Network for Childhood Cancer Care and Research (CANCaRe Africa), Blantyre, Malawi
- Department of Paediatrics, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Lillian Sung
- Sick Children's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Mutua D, Omotola A, Bonilla M, Bhakta N, Friedrich P, Wata D, Muma SN, Ganey M, Muriithi C, Mwangi M, Maina AK, Libes J. Implementation of a formalized evaluation and planning tool to improve pediatric oncology outcomes in Kenya. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30657. [PMID: 37690982 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Survival from pediatric cancers in low middle-income countries is often very low compared to that of high-income countries due to multifactorial etiologies, including late presentation, delayed diagnosis, difficulty with accessing healthcare, drug unavailability, and treatment abandonment. The St. Jude Pediatric Oncology Facility Integrated Local Evaluation Tool (PrOFILE) was developed to map and evaluate childhood cancer healthcare delivery in individual institutions and entire countries, identifying the strengths and weaknesses, as well as opportunities for advancement of care. PROCEDURE Using the PrOFILE self-assessment tool, selected Kenyan pediatric oncology facilities entered data into 12 modules: national context, facility and local context, finances and resources, personnel, service capacity, service integration, diagnostics, chemotherapy, supportive care, surgery, radiation therapy, and patients and outcomes. These modules are grouped into five specific components, including Context, Workforce, Diagnostics, Therapy, and Patients and Outcomes. The St. Jude PrOFILE team analyzed the data and organized the first hybrid workshop, containing both in-person and virtual components. RESULTS Multidisciplinary stakeholders prioritized recommendations for improving care and developed smart objectives to accomplish identified goals over the following 2 years. Strengths and weaknesses of conducting a hybrid global workshop were identified. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated successful use of the PrOFILE tool to conduct a hybrid workshop and identify strategies to improve pediatric oncology care in Kenya. The voluntarily structured work groups will methodically aim to achieve outcome-oriented goals moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayomide Omotola
- Global Pediatric Medicine Department, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Miguel Bonilla
- Global Pediatric Medicine Department, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Global Pediatric Medicine Department, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Paola Friedrich
- Global Pediatric Medicine Department, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - David Wata
- Division of Pharmacy, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Michael Ganey
- Tenwek Hospital, Bomet, Kenya
- Department of Surgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, California, USA
| | | | - Martin Mwangi
- National Cancer Institute of Kenya, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Jaime Libes
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Orlando, Florida, USA
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Schneider NM, Rossell N, Khan MS. Psychosocial services for pediatric oncology patients in low- and middle-income countries from health care providers' perspectives: A survey-based report from the SIOP Global Health Network Psychosocial Working Group. Psychooncology 2023; 32:1710-1717. [PMID: 37795966 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6222] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES While pediatric cancer survival rates have improved in high-income countries, they remain much lower in low- and middle-income countries (L/MICs). While much focus in recent years has been on remediating the survivorship gap, less is known about the psychosocial needs and availability of psychosocial services for this population. METHODS A questionnaire was created by the SIOP Global Health Network Psychosocial Working Group to assess psychosocial needs and services in L/MIC. The questionnaire was distributed to pediatric oncology professionals, both in-person at the SIOP Annual Congress in Lyon (2019) conference and then electronically. Individuals not part of SIOP were also invited to participate via social media posts. RESULTS Sixty-six respondents from 31 countries completed the questionnaire. The majority of participants were physicians, followed by nurses. Participants from low- and lower-middle-income countries (L/LMICs) perceived patients as having higher rates of anxiety and caregivers as having higher rates of depression as compared to those in upper-middle-income countries (UMICs). Across all L/MICs represented, 85% of physicians reported that psychosocial issues sometimes, frequently, or always affect their clinical obligations. Participants reflected on the availability of professionals who treat mental health concerns; the availability of social workers, psychologists, and non-professional volunteers differed significantly between L/LMICs and UMICs. Treatment abandonment and myths/disinformation were highlighted as the most pressing psychosocial priorities. CONCLUSION Our study highlights pediatric oncology providers' perceptions of psychosocial concerns. Based on responses, proposals for minimum standards of care are made, as well as the importance of training existing providers and funding additional psychosocially-focused professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Schneider
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Psychology, Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Muhammad Saghir Khan
- Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Al Madinah Al Munawarrah, Saudi Arabia
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Chamba C, Mawalla W. The future of lymphoma diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring in countries with limited access to pathology services. Semin Hematol 2023; 60:215-219. [PMID: 37596119 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminhematol.2023.07.004] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
The world is moving towards precision medicine for cancer. This movement goes hand in hand with the development of newer advanced technologies for early, precise diagnosis of cancer and personalized treatment plans with fewer adverse effects for the patient. Liquid biopsy is one such advancement. At the same time, it has the advantage of minimal invasion and avoids serial invasive biopsies. In countries with limited access to pathology services, such as sub-Saharan Africa, liquid biopsy may provide an opportunity for early detection and prognostication of lymphoma. We discuss the current diagnostic modalities for lymphoma, highlighting the existing challenges with tissue biopsy, and how feasible it is for countries with limited pathology resources to leverage advancements made in the clinical application of liquid biopsy to improve lymphoma care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Chamba
- Department of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | - William Mawalla
- Department of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Mirutse MK, Palm MT, Tolla MT, Memirie ST, Kefyalew ES, Hailu D, Norheim OF. Cost of childhood cancer treatment in Ethiopia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286461. [PMID: 37267276 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the recent interest in expanding pediatric oncology units in Ethiopia, reflected in the National Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Control Plan (NCACCP), little is known about the cost of running a pediatric oncology unit and treating childhood cancers. METHODS We collected historical cost data and quantity of services provided for the pediatric oncology unit and all other departments in Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) from 8 July 2018 to 7 July 2019, using a provider perspective and mixed (top-down and bottom-up) costing approaches. Direct costs (human resources, drugs, supplies, medical equipment) of the pediatric oncology unit, costs at other relevant clinical departments, and overhead cost share are summed up to estimate the total annual cost of running the unit. Further, unit costs were estimated at specific childhood cancer levels. RESULTS The estimated annual total cost of running a pediatric oncology unit was USD 776,060 (equivalent to USD 577 per treated child). The cost of running a pediatric oncology unit per treated child ranged from USD 469 to USD 1,085, on the scenario-based sensitivity analysis. Drugs and supplies, and human resources accounted for 33% and 27% of the total cost, respectively. Outpatient department and inpatient department shared 37% and 63% of the cost, respectively. For the pediatric oncology unit, the cost per OPD visit, cost per bed day, and cost per episode of hospital admission were USD 36.9, 39.9, and 373.3, respectively. The annual cost per treated child ranged from USD 322 to USD 1,313 for the specific childhood cancers. CONCLUSION Running a pediatric oncology unit in Ethiopia is likely to be affordable. Further analysis of cost effectiveness, equity, and financial risk protection impacts of investing in childhood cancer programs could better inform the prioritization of childhood cancer control interventions in the Ethiopia Essential Health Service Package.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizan Kiros Mirutse
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Ministry of Health Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mieraf Taddesse Tolla
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Solomon Tessema Memirie
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Addis Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Daniel Hailu
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ole F Norheim
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting (BCEPS), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
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Ibne Ali Jaffari SM, Hashmi M, Hashmi AW, Nisar S, Ashraf H, Tariq G, Farooq A, Awan J, Zaidi SMJ, Kaneez M. Infection-Associated Mortality During Induction Chemotherapy in Group B Intermediate-Risk Pediatric Burkitt's Lymphoma. Cureus 2023; 15:e40365. [PMID: 37456486 PMCID: PMC10340133 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) in the pediatric population has significant burden in developing countries. Infection-related complications during the induction chemotherapy phase pose a major challenge and contribute to high mortality rates due to a severely immunocompromised state. However, there is scarce data on the etiologies and optimal management strategies for infection-related mortality in pediatric BL patients, especially in developing countries like Pakistan. Methods This is a cross-sectional study that included a total of 116 pediatric patients with intermediate-risk BL. All patients were treated based on the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG) 2020 guidelines. Data on patient demographics, presenting symptoms, diagnosis, infectious etiologies, and outcomes were collected. Infection-related complications and mortality were monitored during the induction chemotherapy period. The results of relevant culture reports were tabulated and data were analyzed. Results Among the 116 included patients, 61.1% were males with a mean age of 4.83 ± 2.12 years. Abdominal BL was the most common anatomical location. During the induction period, 66 patients (56.9%) had culture-proven infections, resulting in 33 deaths (28.4%). Fever was the predominant presenting symptom in all patients, followed by vomiting (57.6%), loose stools (42.4%), and cough (18.2%). Neutropenic colitis, sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis were among the diagnosed infections. Hospital-acquired bacterial infections, including multi-drug resistant gram-negative and gram-positive organisms, were the main cause of mortality, with fungal infections and cytomegalovirus viremia also identified in a few patients. Conclusions This study highlights the urgent need for improved management strategies in pediatric BL patients in Pakistan to reduce infection-related complications and mortality rates, emphasizing the importance of context-specific approaches for infection prevention and management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masooma Hashmi
- Internal Medicine, Walsall Manor Hospital, Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, Walsall, GBR
| | | | - Samaha Nisar
- Pediatrics, Shalamar Medical and Dental College, Lahore, PAK
| | - Hafsa Ashraf
- Pediatrics, Shalamar Medical and Dental College, Lahore, PAK
| | - Ghufran Tariq
- Pediatrics, Arif Memorial Teaching Hospital, Lahore, PAK
| | - Arslan Farooq
- Internal Medicine, Combined Military Hospital, Lahore, PAK
| | - Javeria Awan
- Pediatrics, Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi, PAK
| | - Syed Muhammad Jawad Zaidi
- Pediatrics, Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi, PAK
- Pediatric Oncology, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Lahore, PAK
| | - Mehwish Kaneez
- Pediatrics, Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi, PAK
- Pediatric Oncology, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Lahore, PAK
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The burden of childhood and adolescent cancers in North Africa and the Middle East (NAME) region: findings from the Global Burden of Disease study 2019. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:113. [PMID: 36890483 PMCID: PMC9992906 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-03931-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the significant burden of childhood and adolescent cancers, no specific studies recently discussed the burden of cancer in this group in the North Africa and the Middle East (NAME) region. Therefore, we aimed to study the burden of cancers in this group in this region. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrieved the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data for children and adolescent cancers (0-19 years old) in the NAME region from 1990 to 2019. 21 types of neoplasms were grouped as "neoplasms", comprising 19 specific cancer groups as well as "other malignant neoplasms" and "other neoplasms". Three significant parameters of incidence, deaths, and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) were studied. The data are presented with 95% uncertainty intervals (UI), and reported rates per 100,000. RESULTS In 2019, almost 6 million (95% UI: 4.166 M-8.405 M) new cases and 11,560(9770-13,578) deaths due to neoplasms occurred in the NAME region. Incidence was higher in females (3.4 M), while deaths (6226 of overall 11,560) and DALYs (501,118 of overall 933,885) were estimated as higher in males. Incidence rates did not significantly change since 1990, while deaths and DALYs rates declined significantly. After excluding "other malignant neoplasms" and "other neoplasms", leukemia was responsible for the highest number of incidence and deaths (incidence: 10,629(8237-13,081), deaths: 4053(3135-5013), followed by brain and central nervous system cancers (incidence: 5897(4192-7134), deaths: 2446(1761-2960)), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (incidence: 2741 (2237-3392), deaths: 790(645-962)). Incidence rates of neoplasms were similar for most countries, but countries varied more in terms of death rates. Afghanistan 8.9(6.5-11.9), Sudan 6.4(4.5-8.6), and the Syrian Arab Republic 5.6(4.3-8.3) had the highest overall death rates. CONCLUSION The NAME region is observing relatively constant incidence rates and a decreasing pattern in the deaths and DALYs. Despite this success, several countries are lagging behind in development. Different issues such as economic problems, armed conflicts and political instabilities, lack of equipment or experienced staff or poor distribution, stigmatization and disbelief in the healthcare systems account for unfavorable numbers in some countries. Such problems require urgent solutions as new sophisticated and personalized cares raise the alarm for even more inequalities between high and low-income countries.
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Rahiman EA, Bakhshi S, Deepam Pushpam, Ramamoorthy J, Das A, Ghara N, Kalra M, Kapoor G, Meena JP, Siddaigarhi S, Thulkar S, Sharma MC, Srinivasan R, Trehan A. Outcome and prognostic factors in childhood B non-Hodgkin lymphoma from India: Report by the Indian Pediatric Oncology Group (InPOG-NHL-16-01 study). Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2022; 39:391-405. [PMID: 34978257 DOI: 10.1080/08880018.2021.2002485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The literature on B-non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in India is restricted to individual hospital data. The study aimed to evaluate the epidemiology and outcome of B-NHL in our country. One hundred and ninety-one patients of B-NHL from 10 centers diagnosed between 2013 and 2016 were analyzed retrospectively. B/T lymphoblastic lymphoma and patients with inadequate data were excluded. The median age was 88 months (IQR: 56, 144) with an M:F ratio of 5.6:1. Undernourishment and stunting were seen in 36.5% and 22%. Primary site was abdomen in 66.5%. Hypoalbuminemia was noted in 82/170 (48.2%). Histological subtypes: Burkitt lymphoma (BL): 69.6%, Burkitt-like: 10.4%, and diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL): 13.6%, unclassified and others (6.4%). Stage distribution: I/II, 33 (17.3%), III, 114 (59.7%), and IV, 44 (23%). One-eighty-six patients took treatment. Protocols used were LMB and BFM in 160/186 (86%). At a median follow-up of 21.34 (IQR: 4.34, 36.57) months, the disease-free-survival (DFS) was 74.4% and event-free-survival (EFS) was 60.7%. Treatment-related mortality (TRM), relapse/progression and abandonment were 14.3%, 14.5%, and 8.4%, respectively. Bone marrow positivity, stage IV disease, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) > 2,000 U/l predicted inferior EFS. Stage IV disease, LDH > 2,000 U/l, bone marrow positivity, tumor lysis syndrome and low albumin predicted TRM; LDH retained significance on multivariate analysis for EFS and TRM [OR: 4.54, 95% CI: 1.14-20, p 0.03; OR 20, 95%CI: 1.69-250, p 0.017]. BL was the main histological subtype. High TRM and relapse/progression are hampering survival. An LDH > 2,000 U/l was adversely prognostic. These data demonstrate a need to develop a national protocol that balances toxicity and potential for cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine A Rahiman
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit and Cytology Department, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sameer Bakhshi
- Rotary Cancer Institute, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Deepam Pushpam
- Rotary Cancer Institute, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jagdish Prasad Meena
- Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Sanjay Thulkar
- Rotary Cancer Institute, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Meher Chand Sharma
- Rotary Cancer Institute, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Radhika Srinivasan
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit and Cytology Department, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Amita Trehan
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit and Cytology Department, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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Fabian ID, Abdallah E, Abdullahi SU, Abdulqader RA, Abdulrahaman AA, Abouelnaga S, Ademola-Popoola DS, Adio A, Afifi MA, Afshar AR, Aggarwal P, Aghaji AE, Ahmad A, Akib MNR, Akinsete A, Al Harby L, Al Mesfer S, Al Ani MH, Alarcón Portabella S, Al-Badri SAF, Alcasabas APA, Al-Dahmash SA, Alejos A, Alemany-Rubio E, Alfa Bio AI, Alfonso Carreras Y, Al-Haddad CE, Al-Hussaini HHY, Ali AM, Alia DB, Al-Jadiry MF, Al-Jumaily U, Alkatan HM, All-Eriksson C, Al-Mafrachi AARM, Almeida AA, Alsawidi KM, Al-Shaheen AASM, Al-Shammary EH, Amankwaa-Frempong D, Amiruddin PO, Armytasari I, Astbury NJ, Atalay HT, Ataseven E, Atchaneeyasakul LO, Atsiaya R, Autrata R, Balaguer J, Balayeva R, Barranco H, Bartoszek P, Bartuma K, Bascaran C, Bechrakis NE, Beck Popovic M, Begimkulova AS, Benmiloud S, Berete RC, Berry JL, Bhaduri A, Bhat S, Bhattacharyya A, Biewald EM, Binkley E, Blum S, Bobrova N, Boldt H, Bonanomi MTBC, Bouda GC, Bouguila H, Brennan RC, Brichard BG, Buaboonnam J, Budiongo A, Burton MJ, Calderón-Sotelo P, Calle Jara DA, Camuglia JE, Cano MR, Capra M, Caspi S, Cassoux N, Castela G, Castillo L, Català-Mora J, Cavieres I, Chandramohan A, Chantada GL, Chaudhry S, Chawla B, Chen W, Chiwanga FS, Chuluunbat T, Cieslik K, Clark A, Cockcroft RL, Comsa C, Correa Llano MG, Corson TW, Couitchere L, Cowan-Lyn KE, Csóka M, Dangboon W, Das A, Das P, Das S, Davanzo JM, Davidson A, De Francesco S, De Potter P, Quintero D K, Demirci H, Desjardins L, Díaz Coronado RY, Dimaras H, Dodgshun AJ, Donato Macedo CR, Dragomir MD, Du Y, Du Bruyn M, Du Plessis J, Dudeja G, Eerme K, Eka Sutyawan IW, El Kettani A, Elbahi AM, Elder JE, Elhaddad AM, Elhassan MMA, Elzembely MM, Ericksen C, Essuman VA, Evina TGA, Ezegwui IR, Fadoo Z, Fandiño AC, Faranoush M, Fasina O, Fernández DDPG, Fernández-Teijeiro A, Foster A, Frenkel S, Fu LD, Fuentes-Alabi SL, Garcia JL, García Aldana D, Garcia Pacheco HN, Geel JA, Ghassemi F, Girón AV, Goenz MA, Gold AS, Goldberg H, Gole GA, Gomel N, Gonzalez E, Gonzalez Perez G, González-Rodríguez L, Gorfine M, Graells J, Gregersen PA, Grigorovski NDAK, Guedenon KM, Gunasekera DS, Gündüz AK, Gupta H, Gupta S, Gupta V, Hadjistilianou T, Hamel P, Hamid SA, Hamzah N, Hansen ED, Harbour JW, Hartnett ME, Hasanreisoglu M, Muhammad H, Hassan S, Hassan S, Hautz W, Haydar H, Hederova S, Hessissen L, Hongeng S, Hordofa DF, Hubbard GB, Hummelen M, Husakova K, Hussein Al-Janabi AN, Ibanga A, Ida R, Ilic VR, Islamov Z, Jairaj V, Janjua T, Jeeva I, Ji X, Jo DH, Jones MM, Kabesha Amani TB, Kabore RL, Kaliki S, Kalinaki A, Kamsang P, Kantar M, Kapelushnik N, Kardava T, Kebudi R, Keomisy J, Kepak T, Ketteler P, Khan ZJ, Khaqan HA, Khetan V, Khodabande A, Khotenashvili Z, Kim JW, Kim JH, Kiratli H, Kivela TT, Klett A, Koç I, Kosh Komba Palet JE, Krivaitiene D, Kruger M, Kulvichit K, Kuntorini MW, Kyara A, Lam GC, Larson SA, Latinović S, Laurenti KD, Lavy Y, Lavric Groznik A, Leverant AA, Li C, Li K, Limbu B, Liu CH, Quah B, López JP, Lukamba RM, Luna-Fineman S, Lutfi D, Lysytsia L, Madgar S, Magrath GN, Mahajan A, Maitra P, Maka E, Makimbetov EK, Maktabi A, Maldonado C, Mallipatna A, Manudhane R, Manzhuova L, Martín-Begue N, Masud S, Matende IO, Mattosinho CCDS, Matua M, Mayet I, Mbumba FB, McKenzie JD, Mehrvar A, Mengesha AA, Menon V, Mercado GJV, Mets MB, Midena E, Miller A, Mishra DKC, Mndeme FG, Mohamedani AA, Mohammad MT, Moll AC, Montero MM, Moreira C, Mruthyunjaya P, Msina MS, Msukwa G, Mudaliar SS, Muma KIM, Munier FL, Murray TG, Musa KO, Mushtaq A, Musika AA, Mustak H, Mustapha T, Muyen OM, Myezo KH, Naidu G, Naidu N, Nair AG, Natarajan S, Naumenko L, Ndoye Roth PA, Nency YM, Neroev V, Ng Y, Nikitovic M, Nkanga ED, Nkumbe HE, Numbi MN, Nummi K, Nuruddin M, Nyaywa M, Nyirenda C, Obono-Obiang G, Oliver SCN, Oporto J, Ortega-Hernández M, Oscar AH, Ossandon D, Pagarra H, Paintsil V, Paiva L, Palanivelu MS, Papyan R, Parrozzani R, Pascual Morales CR, Paton KE, Pe'er J, Peralta Calvo J, Perić S, Pham CTM, Philbert R, Plager DA, Pochop P, Polania RA, Polyakov V, Ponce J, Qadir AO, Qayyum S, Qian J, Refaeli D, Rahman A, Rajkarnikar P, Ramanjulu R, Ramasubramanian A, Ramirez-Ortiz MA, Randhawa JK, Randrianarisoa HL, Raobela L, Rashid R, Reddy M, Renner LA, Reynders D, Ribadu D, Ritter-Sovinz P, Rogowska A, Rojanaporn D, Romero L, Roy SR, Saab RH, Saakyan S, Sabhan AH, Sagoo MS, Said AMA, Saiju R, Salas B, San Román Pacheco S, Sánchez GL, Sanchez Orozco AJ, Sayalith P, Scanlan TA, Schlüter S, Schwab C, Sedaghat A, Seth R, Sgroi M, Shah AS, Shakoor SA, Sharma MK, Sherief ST, Shields CL, Sia D, Siddiqui SN, Sidi cheikh S, Silva S, Singh AD, Singh U, Singha P, Sitorus RS, Skalet AH, Soebagjo HD, Sorochynska T, Ssali G, Stacey AW, Staffieri SE, Stahl ED, Steinberg DM, Stones DK, Strahlendorf C, Suarez MEC, Sultana S, Sun X, Superstein R, Supriyadi E, Surukrattanaskul S, Suzuki S, Svojgr K, Sylla F, Tamamyan G, Tan D, Tandili A, Tang J, Tarrillo Leiva FF, Tashvighi M, Tateshi B, Teh KH, Tehuteru ES, Teixeira LF, Tekavcic Pompe M, Thawaba ADM, Theophile T, Toledano H, Trang DL, Traoré F, Tripathy D, Tuncer S, Tyau-Tyau H, Umar AB, Unal E, Uner OE, Urbak SF, Ushakova TL, Usmanov RH, Valeina S, Valente P, van Hoefen Wijsard M, Vasquez Anchaya JK, Vaughan LO, Veleva-Krasteva NV, Verma N, Victor AA, Viksnins M, Villacís Chafla EG, Villegas VM, Vishnevskia-Dai V, Waddell K, Wali AH, Wang YZ, Wangtiraumnuay N, Wetter J, Widiarti W, Wilson MW, Wime ADC, Wiwatwongwana A, Wiwatwongwana D, Wolley Dod C, Wong ES, Wongwai P, Wu SQ, Xiang D, Xiao Y, Xu B, Xue K, Yaghy A, Yam JC, Yang H, Yanga JM, Yaqub MA, Yarovaya VA, Yarovoy AA, Ye H, Yee RI, Yousef YA, Yuliawati P, Zapata López AM, Zein E, Zhang Y, Zhilyaeva K, Zia N, Ziko OAO, Zondervan M, Bowman R. The Global Retinoblastoma Outcome Study: a prospective, cluster-based analysis of 4064 patients from 149 countries. THE LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH 2022; 10:e1128-e1140. [PMID: 35839812 PMCID: PMC9397647 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(22)00250-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular cancer worldwide. There is some evidence to suggest that major differences exist in treatment outcomes for children with retinoblastoma from different regions, but these differences have not been assessed on a global scale. We aimed to report 3-year outcomes for children with retinoblastoma globally and to investigate factors associated with survival. Methods We did a prospective cluster-based analysis of treatment-naive patients with retinoblastoma who were diagnosed between Jan 1, 2017, and Dec 31, 2017, then treated and followed up for 3 years. Patients were recruited from 260 specialised treatment centres worldwide. Data were obtained from participating centres on primary and additional treatments, duration of follow-up, metastasis, eye globe salvage, and survival outcome. We analysed time to death and time to enucleation with Cox regression models. Findings The cohort included 4064 children from 149 countries. The median age at diagnosis was 23·2 months (IQR 11·0–36·5). Extraocular tumour spread (cT4 of the cTNMH classification) at diagnosis was reported in five (0·8%) of 636 children from high-income countries, 55 (5·4%) of 1027 children from upper-middle-income countries, 342 (19·7%) of 1738 children from lower-middle-income countries, and 196 (42·9%) of 457 children from low-income countries. Enucleation surgery was available for all children and intravenous chemotherapy was available for 4014 (98·8%) of 4064 children. The 3-year survival rate was 99·5% (95% CI 98·8–100·0) for children from high-income countries, 91·2% (89·5–93·0) for children from upper-middle-income countries, 80·3% (78·3–82·3) for children from lower-middle-income countries, and 57·3% (52·1-63·0) for children from low-income countries. On analysis, independent factors for worse survival were residence in low-income countries compared to high-income countries (hazard ratio 16·67; 95% CI 4·76–50·00), cT4 advanced tumour compared to cT1 (8·98; 4·44–18·18), and older age at diagnosis in children up to 3 years (1·38 per year; 1·23–1·56). For children aged 3–7 years, the mortality risk decreased slightly (p=0·0104 for the change in slope). Interpretation This study, estimated to include approximately half of all new retinoblastoma cases worldwide in 2017, shows profound inequity in survival of children depending on the national income level of their country of residence. In high-income countries, death from retinoblastoma is rare, whereas in low-income countries estimated 3-year survival is just over 50%. Although essential treatments are available in nearly all countries, early diagnosis and treatment in low-income countries are key to improving survival outcomes. Funding Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust.
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Jain R, Menon P, Bansal D, Kakkar N, Radhika S, Rao KLN, Trehan A. Outcome of pediatric germ cell tumor with comparison of carboplatin and cisplatin based regimens: A 10-year analysis. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2022; 39:267-277. [PMID: 34665989 DOI: 10.1080/08880018.2021.1980164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Carboplatin is being advocated more frequently for treatment of childhood germ cell tumors (GCT), due to less long-term toxicity, and demonstrable equivalence in outcome as compared to cisplatin. This analysis presents the survival of GCT in a low middle-income country and compares two different chemotherapeutic regimens. A retrospective analysis of patient case records was carried out over 10-years (January 2007-December 2016). Chemotherapy regimen used was bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (PEb) for initial 6-½ years and carboplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin (CEb) subsequently. Ninety patients with GCT were treated over 10-years. Malignant GCT was diagnosed in 69 (77%) patients, with 21(23%) having teratoma. The chemotherapy protocol was PEb in 38 (42%), CEb in 28 (31%) patients, while 24 patients were treated with surgery only. Stage 4 tumor was observed in 19 (21%) patients. Relapse or disease progression was seen in 11(12%). Overall and event-free survival at 5-years for the entire cohort was 77% and 73%, being similar with PEb (OS:77%; EFS:72.5%) vs. CEb (OS:69%; EFS: 69%). Significantly better overall survival was noted for patients with gonadal GCT) and non-stage 4 disease, while event-free survival was significantly better in patients with non-stage 4 disease. The chemotherapeutic regimen (PEb vs. CEb), very high AFP (value ≥10,000 IU/L), and risk stratification (low, intermediate, or high-risk disease) did not affect survival significantly. Carboplatin-based strategy was equivalent in our cohort to cisplatin-based strategy, and could be used safely in the LMIC set-up. The overall survival is suboptimal, with delayed presentation, abandonment, and relapse being barriers to survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Jain
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Center, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Prema Menon
- Pediatric Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Deepak Bansal
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Center, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nandita Kakkar
- Histopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Srinivasan Radhika
- Cytopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - K L N Rao
- Pediatric Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Amita Trehan
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Center, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
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Ocak S, Sen HS, Turkkan E. The time to diagnosis and survival in children with solid tumors and lymphoma: results from a single center in Turkey. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2022; 39:121-131. [PMID: 34281453 DOI: 10.1080/08880018.2021.1951903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The longer diagnostic intervals in low- and middle-income countries have been proposed among the possible causes of poorer outcomes in children with cancer. In this single-center study from Turkey, the diagnostic intervals and survival status of 138 children with solid tumors and lymphoma (excluding leukemia) were prospectively evaluated. The median total interval (from the beginning of the first cancer-related symptom to the first day of the cancer-specific therapy), the median patient interval (the time interval from the notification of the first cancer-related symptom to the first admission to a healthcare facility), and the median physician interval (the time interval between the first healthcare admission to the first pediatric oncology visit) were 65, 26, and 24 days, respectively. The estimated 5-year overall survival and event-free survival rates were 80.7% and 69.1%, respectively. The longer time intervals were correlated with age, paternal education, localization, and tumor type. Interestingly, none of the time parameters were found to be associated with survival on regression analysis. In conclusion, the diagnostic delay in children with cancer is multifactorial, and the patient- and disease-related factors are as important as the time intervals on survival.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/08880018.2021.1951903.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suheyla Ocak
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Ministry of Health Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hilal Susam Sen
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Ministry of Health Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Emine Turkkan
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Ministry of Health Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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Major A, Palese M, Ermis E, James A, Villarroel M, Klussmann FA, Hessissen L, Geel J, Khan MS, Dalvi R, Sullivan M, Kearns P, Frazier AL, Pritchard-Jones K, Nakagawara A, Rodriguez-Galindo C, Volchenboum SL. Mapping Pediatric Oncology Clinical Trial Collaborative Groups on the Global Stage. JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2100266. [PMID: 35157510 PMCID: PMC8853619 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The global pediatric oncology clinical research landscape, particularly in Central and South America, Africa, and Asia, which bear the highest burden of global childhood cancer cases, is less characterized in the literature. Review of how existing pediatric cancer clinical trial groups internationally have been formed and how their research goals have been pursued is critical for building global collaborative research and data-sharing efforts, in line with the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer. Local stakeholder engagement is necessary to collaborate with global pediatric cancer trial groups.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Major
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Monica Palese
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Ebru Ermis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Anthony James
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Milena Villarroel
- Grupo de América Latina de Oncología Pediátrica (GALOP), Hospital Luis Calvo Mackenna, National Pediatric Cancer Program (PINDA), Santiago, Chile
| | - Federico Antillon Klussmann
- National Unit of Pediatric Oncology, Francisco Marroquin University School of Medicine, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Laila Hessissen
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Mohammed V University of Rabat, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Jennifer Geel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Division of Pediatric Haematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Muhammad Saghir Khan
- Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rashmi Dalvi
- Bombay Hospital Institute of Medical Sciences and SRCC Children's Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Michael Sullivan
- Children's Cancer Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Pamela Kearns
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kathy Pritchard-Jones
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Totadri S, Srinivasan HN, Joseph LL, Boddu D, Suresh Kochath P, Moorthy M, Mathew LG, John RR. The Unique Balancing Act of Managing Children With Cancer and COVID-19 Infection: A Single Center Experience From South India. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2022; 44:e287-e292. [PMID: 33769391 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000002148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Children with cancer are vulnerable to severe infections. Balancing the intensive treatment of cancer, with the potential risk of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) related morbidity and mortality is a unique challenge. Children with cancer testing positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction at our center were studied. Thirty-seven children tested positive for COVID-19 during the study period. The severity of the illness was mild, moderate, severe, and critical in 10 (27%), 13 (35%), 12 (32%), and 2 (5%) patients, respectively. Of the 14 patients with a severe/critical illness, 2 had oncological emergencies, 4 had dengue co-infection, and 1 had an inguinal bacterial abscess. All patients were discharged in a stable condition. Modification of the treatment protocol was performed in 11 (33%) of 33 patients who were on active treatment for cancer. There was a median delay of 32.5 days to administer the next cycle of chemotherapy in patients who acquired COVID-19 during cancer treatment. Six of 7 patients who were retested after 14 days remained positive by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Children with cancer with COVID-19 recover with good supportive care. Curative chemotherapy can be administered safely with appropriate modifications in children with cancer with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leenu L Joseph
- Paediatric Haematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Paediatrics
| | - Deepthi Boddu
- Paediatric Haematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Paediatrics
| | | | - Mahesh Moorthy
- Clinical Virology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Leni G Mathew
- Paediatric Haematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Paediatrics
| | - Rikki R John
- Paediatric Haematology-Oncology Unit, Department of Paediatrics
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Curing the Curable: Managing Low-Risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Resource Limited Countries. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10204728. [PMID: 34682851 PMCID: PMC8540602 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10204728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is curable, global disparities in treatment outcomes remain. To reduce these global disparities in low-middle income countries (LMIC), a paradigm shift is needed: start with curing low-risk ALL. Low-risk ALL, which accounts for >50% of patients, can be cured with low-toxicity therapies already defined by collaborative studies. We reviewed the components of these low-toxicity regimens in recent clinical trials for low-risk ALL and suggest how they can be adopted in LMIC. In treating childhood ALL, the key is risk stratification, which can be resource stratified. NCI standard-risk criteria (age 1–10 years, WBC < 50,000/uL) is simple yet highly effective. Other favorable features such as ETV6-RUNX1, hyperdiploidy, early peripheral blood and bone marrow responses, and simplified flow MRD at the end of induction can be added depending on resources. With limited supportive care in LMIC, more critical than relapse is treatment-related morbidity and mortality. Less intensive induction allows early marrow recovery, reducing the need for intensive supportive care. Other key elements in low-toxicity protocol designs include: induction steroid type; high-dose versus low-dose escalating methotrexate; judicious use of anthracyclines; and steroid pulses during maintenance. In summary, the first effective step in curing ALL in LMIC is to focus on curing low-risk ALL with less intensive therapy and less toxicity.
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Ghalibafian M, Masoudifar M, Mohammadi E, Girinsky T, Oberlin O, Bouffet E. Establishing a pediatric radiation oncology department in a low- and middle-income country: Major challenge in implementing the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29233. [PMID: 34357689 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mithra Ghalibafian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MAHAK Pediatric Cancer Treatment and Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Masoudifar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MAHAK Pediatric Cancer Treatment and Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Mohammadi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MAHAK Pediatric Cancer Treatment and Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Odile Oberlin
- Department of Pediatrics, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Eric Bouffet
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Harif M, Mallon B, Patte C, Bey P, Chalvon-Demersay C, Omer-Decugis L, Hessissen L. Improving Care for Children With Cancer in Africa: Two Decades of Experience of the French African Pediatric Oncology Group. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 7:1509-1512. [PMID: 34678073 PMCID: PMC8547926 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mhamed Harif
- Groupe Franco-Africain d’Oncologie Pédiatrique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Tanger, Faculté de médecine et de pharmacie, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Brenda Mallon
- Groupe Franco-Africain d’Oncologie Pédiatrique, Villejuif, France
| | - Catherine Patte
- Groupe Franco-Africain d’Oncologie Pédiatrique, Villejuif, France
| | - Pierre Bey
- Groupe Franco-Africain d’Oncologie Pédiatrique, Villejuif, France
| | | | | | - Laila Hessissen
- Groupe Franco-Africain d’Oncologie Pédiatrifque, Centre Hospitalier Ibn Sina, Faculté de Médecine et de pharmacie, Rabat, Morocco
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17
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Israels T, Afungchwi GM, Klootwijk L, Njuguna F, Hesseling P, Kouya F, Paintsil V, Landman L, Chitsike I, Chagaluka G, Sung L, Molyneux E. Fever and neutropenia outcomes and areas for intervention: A report from SUCCOUR - Supportive Care for Children with Cancer in Africa. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29224. [PMID: 34245212 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Death during paediatric cancer treatment is common in sub-Saharan Africa. Using the infrastructure of Supportive Care for Children with Cancer in Africa (SUCCOUR), our objective was to describe fever and neutropenia (FN) characteristics and outcomes in order to identify potential areas for future intervention. METHODS A multicentre prospective, observational cohort study was conducted in sub-Saharan Africa. Data were collected from September 2019 to March 2020. Children below 16 years with newly diagnosed cancer treated with curative intent were included. Data were abstracted in real time using standardised case report forms by trained personnel. Characteristics and outcomes of FN during the first 3 months of treatment were documented. RESULTS A total of 252 patients were included (median age 6.0, range 0.2-15.0 years, 54% male). The most common cancer was Burkitt lymphoma (63/252, 25%). Among 104 FN episodes, 21 (21%) were associated with prolonged neutropenia (>1 week) and 32 (31%) were associated with profound neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count <0.1 × 109 /L). In 10/104 (10%) episodes, empiric antibiotics were started within 1 hour following fever onset and in 16/104 (15%) episodes, a blood culture was obtained before starting antibiotics. Malaria parasitaemia was detected in four of 104 (4%). A total of 11/104 (11%) patients died in the FN episodes. CONCLUSIONS Although in most, FN was not associated with prolonged or profound neutropenia, 11% resulted in death. Areas to target include blood cultures prior to antibiotics and earlier initiation of empiric antibiotics. Future efforts should modify FN practices to reduce treatment-related mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trijn Israels
- Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Larissa Klootwijk
- Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Festus Njuguna
- Department of Child Health and Paediatrics, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Peter Hesseling
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Francine Kouya
- Cameroon Baptist Convention Hospitals, Mutengene, Cameroon
| | - Vivian Paintsil
- Department of Child Health, Kumasi School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lisa Landman
- Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Inam Chitsike
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - George Chagaluka
- Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH), College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Lillian Sung
- Division of Haematology/Oncology and Program in Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Molyneux
- Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH), College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
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Ferreras-Antolin L, Bielicki J, Warris A, Sharland M, Hsia Y. Global Divergence of Antifungal Prescribing Patterns: Data From the Global Antimicrobial Resistance, Prescribing, and Efficacy in Neonates and Children Surveys. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2021; 40:327-332. [PMID: 33710977 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000002983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) have a significant impact in human health. With an increasing pediatric population at risk of IFD, effective antifungal drugs access and affordability should be ensured universally. The aim of our study was to characterize the global antifungal drug use in neonates and children and its variability between countries in different income groups. METHODS Data were extracted from the Global Antimicrobial Resistance, Prescribing and Efficacy in Neonates and Children Point Prevalence Survey project, consisting in 1 pilot and four 1-day Point Prevalence Survey between 2015 and 2017. The data had been entered through a study-specific web-based data collection tool. RESULTS From a total of 13,410 children included, 7.8% (1048/13,410) received at least 1 systemic antifungal drug: 9.5% (95% confidence interval: 8.9%-10.1%) in high income countries (HIC) versus 5.0% (95% confidence interval: 4.4%-5.6%) in low-middle income countries (LMIC) (P < 0.01). A significant proportion of patients on antifungals belonged to high-risk group for IFD (67.4%; 706/1048); most of these were managed in HIC (72.8%, P < 0.01). The likelihood of receiving antifungals being in high-risk group was higher in HIC compared with LMIC (ratio of 5.8 vs. 3.4, P < 0.01). Antifungal prophylaxis was more likely prescribed in HIC (67.2% vs. 30.4%, P < 0.01). Fluconazole was the most frequently prescribed drug. The proportional use of fluconazole was higher in LMIC compared with HIC. CONCLUSIONS A significant variability of antifungal prescribing patterns was observed. The proportional use of systemic antifungals was twice as high in HIC compared with LMIC. More detailed data on access and antifungal use in limited-resource settings should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ferreras-Antolin
- From the Paediatric Infectious Diseases Research Group, Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Julia Bielicki
- From the Paediatric Infectious Diseases Research Group, Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Paediatric Pharmacology Group, University of Basel Children's Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Adilia Warris
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mike Sharland
- From the Paediatric Infectious Diseases Research Group, Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yingfen Hsia
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
- School of Pharmacy, Queens' University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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Ekenze SO, Okafor OC, Obasi AA, Okafor DC, Nnabugwu II. Wilms tumor in Africa: A systematic review of management challenges and outcome in two decades (2000-2019). Pediatr Blood Cancer 2020; 67:e28695. [PMID: 32909662 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
We performed a systematic review to highlight trends in management and outcome of Wilms tumor (WT) in Africa in the past two decades (2000-2019). Twenty-seven studies involving 2250 patients were analyzed. Overall, barring regional variations, 57.7% of the cases presented with advanced disease, 57.3% completed planned treatment, and survival was 56.5%. The publications in the two decades did not show significant differences in proportions of cases with advanced disease, completion of treatment rate, and cases lost to follow up. However, significantly more cases received preoperative chemotherapy, and survival improved in the last decade (2010-2019) compared to the earlier decade (2000-2009). Survival of WT in Africa might have improved in the last decade, but challenges of delayed presentation and abandonment of treatment have persisted. Measures that will encourage early access to expert care as well as improve on treatment compliance may further improve survival of WT in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian O Ekenze
- Sub-Department of Pediatric Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Okechukwu C Okafor
- Department of Morbid Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Akputa A Obasi
- Pediatric Surgery Unit, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - David C Okafor
- Pediatric Surgery Unit, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Ikenna I Nnabugwu
- Urology Unit, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
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20
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Revon-Rivière G, Banavali S, Heississen L, Gomez Garcia W, Abdolkarimi B, Vaithilingum M, Li CK, Leung PC, Malik P, Pasquier E, Epelman S, Chantada G, André N. Metronomic Chemotherapy for Children in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Survey of Current Practices and Opinions of Pediatric Oncologists. J Glob Oncol 2020; 5:1-8. [PMID: 31260397 PMCID: PMC6613668 DOI: 10.1200/jgo.18.00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) experience the burden of 80% of new childhood cancer cases worldwide, with cure rates as low as 10% in some countries. Metronomics combines frequent administrations of low-dose chemotherapy with drug repurposing, which consists of using already-approved drugs for new medical applications. With wide availability, limited costs, and little infrastructure needs, metronomics can be part of constraint-adapted regimens in these resource-limited settings—with the understanding that metronomics shall not be a substitute for standard treatments when available and doable. Our study aims to describe the experience, practices, opinions, and needs in metronomics of physicians working in LMICs. METHODS An online questionnaire was sent to more than 1,200 physicians in pediatric oncology networks in LMICs. Items included the type of center, physician’s demographics, experience in pediatric oncology, and experience with current knowledge of metronomics. Opinions and perspectives were explored using multiple-answer and open questions. RESULTS Of physicians, 17% responded. Of respondents, 54.9% declared that they had already used a metronomic regimen. The most frequently cited repositioned drugs were celecoxib (44%) followed by propranolol and valproic acid (17%). Respondents highlighted the advantages of outpatient use (20%) and expected low toxicity (24%). In considering the drawbacks of metronomics, 47% of responses highlighted the lack of scientific evidence or guidelines, 33% the availability or affordability of drugs, and 18% the problem of acceptance or compliance. Of physicians, 79% believed that use of metronomics will spread in LMICs in the near future and 98% of them were willing to participate in international metronomic protocols or registries. CONCLUSION Metronomics is already used in LMICs and is a potential answer to unmet needs in pediatric oncology. There is room for improvement in the availability of drugs and a necessity to develop collaborative protocols and research to generate level A evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shripad Banavali
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Laila Heississen
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Rabat Children Hospital, University Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Wendy Gomez Garcia
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Dr Robert Reid Cabral Children's Hospital, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Babak Abdolkarimi
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Lorestan University of Medical Science, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Manickavallie Vaithilingum
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Netcare Parklands Hospital, Durban, South Africa
| | - Chi-Kong Li
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Prince of Wales Hospital, Chines University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Chung Leung
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, People's Republic of China
| | - Prabhat Malik
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Eddy Pasquier
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Aix-Marseille Université, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
| | - Sidnei Epelman
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Santa Marcelina Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Guillermo Chantada
- Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Hospital JP Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolas André
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, La Timone Hospital, Marseille, France.,Metronomics Global Health Initiative, Marseille, France.,Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Aix-Marseille Université, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
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21
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Shabani M, Saeedi Moghaddam S, Ataeinia B, Rezaei N, Mohebi F, Mohajer B, Gohari K, Sheidaei A, Pishgar F, Yoosefi M, Kompani F, Farzadfar F. Trends of National and Subnational Incidence of Childhood Cancer Groups in Iran: 1990-2016. Front Oncol 2020; 9:1428. [PMID: 31993366 PMCID: PMC6970968 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Childhood cancer is a double-edged sword, considering its high rate of response to treatment despite a high vulnerability to develop future malignancies in survivors. Thus, multidisciplinary preventive, curative, and supportive strategies must be incorporated in childhood cancer care that require understanding the distribution and trend of cancer in the target population. In this article, we aimed to report the national and subnational trends of childhood cancer incidence in Iran from 1990 to 2016, and mortality/incidence ratio (MIR), which, to our knowledge, have not been reported in previous literature. Method: Data on the incidence and mortality rates were collected from the National and Subnational Burden of Diseases project. We employed a two-stage spatiotemporal model to estimate cancer incidences by sex, age, province, and year based on the primary dataset of national death registration system. National and subnational age and gender-specific trends as well as MIR were calculated. Result: The age-standardized incidence rate had a steady increasing trend for cancers in both female [annual percent change (APC), 1.6%] and male (APC, 2.1%) patients. Not only there was an increasing trend in most provinces but also there was a 40% divergence in age-standardized incidence rate at subnational levels. Leukemia, lymphoma, neoplasms of the central nervous system (CNS), digestive tract, endocrine gland, and urinary tract were the leading causes of cancer comprising more than half of all cancers. There was a remarkable general decrease in MIR by 75% as a proxy of care quality. Conclusion: Regarding the increased trend of childhood cancer incidence, there is an essential need to address the etiologic factors and establish preventive plans for childhood cancers. Despite the favorable outcomes observed in cancer care, commensurate health resource allocation must be applied to diminish the subnational disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsima Shabani
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,International Hematology/Oncology of Pediatrics Experts, Universal Scientific Education and Research Network, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Saeedi Moghaddam
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahar Ataeinia
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazila Rezaei
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farnam Mohebi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahram Mohajer
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimiya Gohari
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Sheidaei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farhad Pishgar
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Yoosefi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Kompani
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Medical Center, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farshad Farzadfar
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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22
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Global burden of childhood cancer: growing, but controllable. Lancet Oncol 2019; 20:1184-1185. [PMID: 31371207 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(19)30424-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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23
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Gupta T, Achari R, Chatterjee A, Chen ZP, Mehta M, Bouffet E, Jalali R. Comparison of Epidemiology and Outcomes in Neuro-Oncology Between the East and the West: Challenges and Opportunities. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2019; 31:539-548. [PMID: 31182288 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2019.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Although neoplasms of the brain and central nervous system (CNS) are relatively uncommon, comprising only 1-2% of the overall cancer burden, they represent a substantial source of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The age-adjusted annual incidence of CNS tumours is reportedly low; however, there is substantial global variability in its incidence, with nearly a five-fold difference between regions with the highest rates in developed countries in the West and those with the lowest rates in developing countries in South-East Asia, including India, possibly attributable to key differences in environmental factors, genetic susceptibilities and cultural practices, as well as resource constraints in low-middle income countries precluding precise ascertainment and accurate diagnosis. The burden of CNS tumours is further compounded by the fact that they require highly specialised and skilled multidisciplinary care, including access to modern neuroimaging, neurosurgery, neuropathology and molecular biology, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and rehabilitation services, which may not be widely available in an integrated manner in large parts of the world with a large variation in clinical pathways, non-uniformity of care and resultant heterogeneity in clinical outcomes. CNS tumours encompass a heterogeneous spectrum of histopathological entities with differences in presentation, distinct molecular/genetic alterations, diverse biological behaviour and varying clinical outcomes. Survival is highly dependent on histology, grade and molecular biology, but varies widely across continents, even for the same tumour type and grade. In general, survival is higher in children with primary brain tumours than in adults, largely due to the differences in histological distribution across age groups. However, there is widespread variability, with 5-year survival for paediatric brain tumours being <40% in some low-middle income countries compared with 70-80% in the developed world. This review compares the descriptive epidemiology and clinical outcomes of primary brain tumours between the East and the West that pose unique challenges but also provide new opportunities in contemporary neuro-oncological practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Gupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India.
| | - R Achari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Medical Centre, Kolkata, India
| | - A Chatterjee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Z-P Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, SunYat-sen University Cancer Centre, Guangzhou, China
| | - M Mehta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - E Bouffet
- Neuro-Oncology Section, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - R Jalali
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, India
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24
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Two-thirds of the world's population lacks access to surgical care, many of them being children. This review provides an update on recent advances in global children's surgery. RECENT FINDINGS Surgery is being increasingly recognized as an essential component of global and child health. There is a greater focus on sustainable collaborations between high-income countries (HICs) and low-and-middle-income countries (HICs and LMICs). Recent work provides greater insight into the global disease burden, perioperative outcomes and effective context-specific solutions. Surgery has continued to be identified as a cost-effective intervention in LMICs. There have also been substantial advances in research and advocacy for a number of childhood surgical conditions. SUMMARY Substantial global disparities persist in the care of childhood surgical conditions. Recent work has provided greater visibility to the challenges and solutions for children's surgery in LMICs. Capacity-building and scale up of children's surgical care, more robust implementation research and ongoing advocacy are needed to increase access to children's surgical care worldwide.
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25
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Lam CG, Howard SC, Bouffet E, Pritchard-Jones K. Science and health for all children with cancer. Science 2019; 363:1182-1186. [DOI: 10.1126/science.aaw4892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Each year ~429,000 children and adolescents aged 0 to 19 years are expected to develop cancer. Five-year survival rates exceed 80% for the 45,000 children with cancer in high-income countries (HICs) but are less than 30% for the 384,000 children in lower-middle-income countries (LMICs). Improved survival rates in HICs have been achieved through multidisciplinary care and research, with treatment regimens using mostly generic medicines and optimized risk stratification. Children’s outcomes in LMICs can be improved through global collaborative partnerships that help local leaders adapt effective treatments to local resources and clinical needs, as well as address common problems such as delayed diagnosis and treatment abandonment. Together, these approaches may bring within reach the global survival target recently set by the World Health Organization: 60% survival for all children with cancer by 2030.
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26
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Pediatric oncology-hematology outreach: Evaluation of patient consultations by teleconferences between Indonesian and Dutch academic hospitals. PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY ONCOLOGY JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phoj.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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27
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Pediatric Solid Tumors in Resource-Constrained Settings: A Review of Available Evidence on Management, Outcomes, and Barriers to Care. CHILDREN-BASEL 2018; 5:children5110143. [PMID: 30360527 PMCID: PMC6262277 DOI: 10.3390/children5110143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
International disparities in outcomes from pediatric solid tumors remain striking. Herein, we review the current literature regarding management, outcomes, and barriers to care for pediatric solid tumors in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In sub-Saharan Africa, Wilms Tumor represents the most commonly encountered solid tumor of childhood and has been the primary target of recent efforts to improve outcomes in low-resource settings. Aggressive and treatment-resistant tumor biology may play a role in poor outcomes within certain populations, but socioeconomic barriers remain the principal drivers of preventable mortality. Management protocols that include measures to address socioeconomic barriers have demonstrated early success in reducing abandonment of therapy. Further work is required to improve infrastructure and general pediatric care to address disparities.
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28
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Petrilli AS, Luisi FAV. IN TIME: COMO ESTÁ O ATENDIMENTO DA CRIANÇA COM CÂNCER? REVISTA PAULISTA DE PEDIATRIA 2018; 36:252-253. [PMID: 30365807 PMCID: PMC6202905 DOI: 10.1590/1984-0462/;2018;36;3;00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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29
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Chiew KL, Sundaresan P, Jalaludin B, Vinod SK. A narrative synthesis of the quality of cancer care and development of an integrated conceptual framework. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2018; 27:e12881. [PMID: 30028054 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The general paradigms that exist to guide measures in quality of care do not sufficiently deal with the changing needs of cancer management. The aim of this study was to review the literature regarding the quality of cancer care and develop a conceptual framework relevant to current practice. A textual narrative review of the literature was conducted by searching electronic databases from the last 10 years. Articles were then screened and included if they were both relevant to the management of cancer and standards in quality of care. Thematic analysis of the included articles was performed. Eighty-three articles were included and 12 domains identified and integrated with current models to develop a conceptual framework. These included: healthcare delivery system; timeliness; access; appropriateness of care; multidisciplinary and coordinated care; patient experience; technical aspects; safety; patient-centred outcomes; disease-specific outcomes; innovation and improvement and value. We propose a conceptual framework for the quality of cancer care based on relevant and current oncology practice. This presents a more practical and comprehensive approach than general models, and can be used by healthcare providers, managers and policy makers to guide and identify the need for metrics for quality improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim-Lin Chiew
- Radiation Oncology, Sydney West Cancer Network, Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Puma Sundaresan
- Radiation Oncology, Sydney West Cancer Network, Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bin Jalaludin
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Epidemiology, Healthy People and Places Unit, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shalini K Vinod
- South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Radiation Oncology, Liverpool Cancer Therapy Centre, South Western Sydney Local Health District Cancer Services, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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30
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Vasquez L, Diaz R, Chavez S, Tarrillo F, Maza I, Hernandez E, Oscanoa M, García J, Geronimo J, Rossell N. Factors associated with abandonment of therapy by children diagnosed with solid tumors in Peru. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2018; 65:e27007. [PMID: 29431252 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abandonment of treatment is a major cause of treatment failure and poor survival in children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries. The incidence of treatment abandonment in Peru has not been reported. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of and factors associated with treatment abandonment by pediatric patients with solid tumors in Peru. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the sociodemographic and clinical data of children referred between January 2012 and December 2014 to the two main tertiary centers for childhood cancer in Peru. The definition of treatment abandonment followed the International Society of Paediatric Oncology, Paediatric Oncology in Developing Countries, Abandonment of Treatment recommendation. RESULTS Data from 1135 children diagnosed with malignant solid tumors were analyzed, of which 209 (18.4%) abandoned treatment. Bivariate logistic regression analysis showed significantly higher abandonment rates in children living outside the capital city, Lima (forest; odds ratio [OR] 3.25; P < 0.001), those living in a rural setting (OR 3.44; P < 0.001), and those whose parent(s) lacked formal employment (OR 4.39; P = 0.001). According to cancer diagnosis, children with retinoblastoma were more likely to abandon treatment compared to children with other solid tumors (OR 1.79; P = 0.02). In multivariate regression analyses, rural origin (OR 2.02; P = 0.001) and lack of formal parental employment (OR 2.88; P = 0.001) were independently predictive of abandonment. CONCLUSION Treatment abandonment prevalence of solid tumors in Peru is high and closely related to sociodemographical factors. Treatment outcomes could be substantially improved by strategies that help prevent abandonment of therapy based on these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Vasquez
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Rosdali Diaz
- Pediatric Oncology, National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases, Lima, Peru
| | - Sharon Chavez
- Pediatric Oncology, National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases, Lima, Peru
| | - Fanny Tarrillo
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Ivan Maza
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Eddy Hernandez
- Pediatric Oncology, National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases, Lima, Peru
| | - Monica Oscanoa
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Juan García
- Pediatric Oncology, National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases, Lima, Peru
| | - Jenny Geronimo
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Nuria Rossell
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Sciences Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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31
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Howard SC, Zaidi A, Cao X, Weil O, Bey P, Patte C, Samudio A, Haddad L, Lam CG, Moreira C, Pereira A, Harif M, Hessissen L, Choudhury S, Fu L, Caniza MA, Lecciones J, Traore F, Ribeiro RC, Gagnepain-Lacheteau A. The My Child Matters programme: effect of public–private partnerships on paediatric cancer care in low-income and middle-income countries. Lancet Oncol 2018; 19:e252-e266. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(18)30123-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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32
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Mattos AS, Aguilera J, Salguero EA, Wiesner C. Pediatric oncology services in Colombia. COLOMBIA MEDICA (CALI, COLOMBIA) 2018; 49:97-101. [PMID: 29983469 PMCID: PMC6018828 DOI: 10.25100/cm.v49i1.3377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In low-income countries, a child diagnosed with cancer has an 80% chance of dying, while in high-income countries more than 80% survive the disease. In Colombia, a middle-income country, the government issued new legislation that promotes the generation of comprehensive care units; nevertheless, seven years after its expedition, no institution has been recognized as such by the Ministry of Health. The objective of this study was to characterize the current offer of oncological services for cancer care in children and to identify the institutions that can be constituted in Units of Comprehensive Care of Childhood Cancer in Colombia.
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33
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Howard SC, Davidson A, Luna-Fineman S, Israels T, Chantada G, Lam CG, Hunger SP, Bailey S, Ribeiro RC, Arora RS, Pedrosa F, Harif M, Metzger ML. A framework to develop adapted treatment regimens to manage pediatric cancer in low- and middle-income countries: The Pediatric Oncology in Developing Countries (PODC) Committee of the International Pediatric Oncology Society (SIOP). Pediatr Blood Cancer 2017; 64 Suppl 5. [PMID: 29297619 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.26879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Many children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries are treated in hospitals lacking key infrastructure, including diagnostic capabilities, imaging modalities, treatment components, supportive care, and personnel. Childhood cancer treatment regimens adapted to local conditions provide an opportunity to cure as many children as possible with the available resources, while working to improve services and supportive care. This paper from the Adapted Treatment Regimens Working Group of the Pediatric Oncology in Developing Countries committee of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology outlines the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of adapted regimens and specifies levels of services needed to deliver them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott C Howard
- University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Alan Davidson
- Haematology-Oncology Service, Red Cross Children's Hospital, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sandra Luna-Fineman
- Hematology/Oncology/SCT, Center for Global Health, Children, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Trijn Israels
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guillermo Chantada
- CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Hospitals JP Garrahan and Austral, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Hemato-Oncology Service, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Catherine G Lam
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Stephen P Hunger
- Department of Pediatrics and the Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Simon Bailey
- Paediatric Neuro-Oncology and Paediatric Oncology, Sir James Spence Institute of Child Health, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Raul C Ribeiro
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Ramandeep S Arora
- Department of Medical Oncology, Max Super-Specialty Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Mhamed Harif
- Department of Hematology, Hôpital 20 août, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Monika L Metzger
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
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34
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El-Mallawany NK, Wasswa P, Mtete I, Mutai M, Stanley CC, Mtunda M, Chasela M, Mpasa A, Wachepa S, Kamiyango W, Villiera J, Kazembe PN, Mehta PS. Identifying opportunities to bridge disparity gaps in curing childhood cancer in Malawi: Malignancies with excellent curative potential account for the majority of diagnoses. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2017; 34:261-274. [PMID: 29190181 DOI: 10.1080/08880018.2017.1395934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The majority of African children with cancer die without access to resources. We describe efforts to build a public treatment program with curative intent for childhood cancer in Lilongwe, Malawi despite severe limitations in diagnostic and therapeutic resources. We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of childhood cancer patients at Kamuzu Central Hospital from 12/2011-6/2013. Consistently available chemotherapeutic agents were limited to cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, bleomycin, methotrexate, and prednisone. Of 258 newly diagnosed childhood malignancies, 17 patients with retinoblastoma were excluded from clinical analyses due to insufficient clinical data. Among the remainder of the cohort (n = 241), 42% were female with median age 8.4 years (range 0.6-17.9). Forty-six (19%) were HIV-infected (42 Kaposi sarcoma, 3 Burkitt lymphoma, 1 Hodgkin lymphoma). The most common clinical presentations were palpable abdominal mass (41%), peripheral lymphadenopathy (33%), and jaw mass (17%). Nearly two-thirds of total diagnoses were accounted for by Burkitt lymphoma (n = 74), Kaposi sarcoma (n = 52), Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 21), and Wilms tumor (n = 19). Twelve-month overall survival for these 4 most common diagnoses was 54% (95% confidence interval 46-61) versus 19% (95% confidence interval 11-30) for all other diagnoses (median follow-up 19 months). Treatment-related mortality was highest in patients with non-Wilms solid tumors of the abdomen (48% versus 10% for the overall cohort, p < 0.001), while treatment abandonment was highest in patients with bone and soft-tissue sarcomas (29% versus 14% overall, p = 0.05). Childhood cancers with excellent curative potential accounted for the majority of patients, establishing an opportunity to build treatment programs with curative intent despite severe limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Kim El-Mallawany
- a Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine , Houston , Texas , USA.,b Department of Pediatrics , Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers , Houston , Texas , USA
| | - Peter Wasswa
- b Department of Pediatrics , Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers , Houston , Texas , USA.,c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Idah Mtete
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Mercy Mutai
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | | | - Mary Mtunda
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Mary Chasela
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Atupele Mpasa
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Stella Wachepa
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - William Kamiyango
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Jimmy Villiera
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Peter N Kazembe
- c Department of Pediatrics , Kamuzu Central Hospital , Lilongwe , Malawi.,d Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Parth S Mehta
- a Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine , Houston , Texas , USA.,b Department of Pediatrics , Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers , Houston , Texas , USA
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Hadley GP, van Heerden J. High-risk neuroblastoma in a sub-Saharan African country: telling it like it is. Trop Doct 2017; 47:370-374. [PMID: 28403698 DOI: 10.1177/0049475517704363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma is uncommon in Africa, but when seen usually presents as high-risk disease with a poor prognosis. This aggressive biology of the tumour is frequently augmented by delayed presentation. Current treatment depends upon technologies and skills that are scarce in developing countries and the cost involved is generally beyond the means of healthcare providers who are faced with a myriad more pressing healthcare issues. The presentation, treatment and outcome of 45 African children with neuroblastoma are described. Due to a lack of resources precise risk stratification was impossible but visceral or bone metastases were present in 73% of patients at diagnosis. In 91% the primary tumour was intra-abdominal. Three children (7%) were paraplegic on admission. A localised tumour was seen in one child (2%). Fifteen children (33%) underwent a surgical procedure, with intent to cure in five among whom resection was incomplete in three. For all other children, treatment was palliative using chemotherapy with judicious use of radiotherapy. Thirteen children (29%) survived longer than six months. Overall survival at three years was 4%.
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Affiliation(s)
- G P Hadley
- 1 Professor Emeritus, Department of Paediatric Surgery, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - J van Heerden
- 2 Paediatric Oncologist, Paediatric Haematology and Oncology Service, School of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of KwaZulu Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
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Buser JM. The Need for Hematology Nurse Education in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Community Case Study in Tanzania. Front Public Health 2017; 5:65. [PMID: 28424766 PMCID: PMC5372811 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematology-related diseases, such as anemia, malaria, sickle cell disease (SCD), and blood cancers, have differing rates of survival between high-income and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Nurses in LMICs have an unmet need for specialty training and education to address hematology and hemato-oncology disorders. A gap in the literature exists about hematology nurse education and clinical service demands in LMICs. This community case study documents a collaborative hematology and basic hemato-oncology education program to sustainably strengthen nurse capacity at a national referral hospital and university in Tanzania. The goal of the intervention was to provide culturally competent nurse training in pediatric and adult hematology. A certified pediatric nurse practitioner with hematology and oncology experience provided culturally competent training and staff development to nurses over two weeks to meet this goal. Prior to development of a training schedule, nurses confidentially identified five of their top learning needs. Main hematology and basic oncology educational needs identified by nurses were the management of anemia, safe handling of cytotoxic agents, and treatment of SCD. The format of the education varied from bedside teaching to formal presentations to one-on-one individual discussions. Overall, nurses expressed satisfaction with the education and verbalized appreciation for teaching and training activities tailored to meet their needs. Specialized training in hematology and hemato-oncology has the potential to increase nurses’ confidence, respect, and participation in interprofessional team decision-making. Lessons learned from the impact of collaborative nurse education and partnership in Tanzania can be generalized to other LMICs. This community case study highlights the importance of specialty nurse education, interprofessional development, and global partnerships needed to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Buser
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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André N, Banavali S, Pasquier E. Metronomics — fulfilling unmet needs beyond level A evidence. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2016; 13:469-70. [DOI: 10.1038/nrclinonc.2016.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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