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Nwakasi C, Esiaka D, Staab T, Philip AA, Nweke C. HIV knowledge and information access among women cancer survivors in Nigeria. J Cancer Policy 2024; 39:100456. [PMID: 37989454 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpo.2023.100456] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Women in Nigeria have a high burden of diseases, such as cancer and HIV. Nigerian women also have inadequate access to health information, especially for disease prevention and health promotion. Researchers have indicated that living with HIV can be particularly harmful to the health and survival of cancer survivors. However, there is a dearth of research on Nigerian women cancer survivors' knowledge of cancer and HIV linkage and their access to HIV health information. This knowledge gap may have negative health consequences. Therefore, there is a need to ensure HIV prevention among Nigerian women cancer survivors by improving access to health information. This study used a qualitative descriptive method to examine HIV knowledge and access to health information among women cancer survivors in Nigeria. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 30 women cancer survivors from Abuja, Nigeria. We identified three themes from the data, illuminating women's knowledge of the connection between HIV and cancer. The themes include: (a) perception of HIV versus cancer which described views of HIV and cancer as distinct health conditions, (b) perceived effect of HIV on cancer given that HIV can worsen cancer outcomes, and (c) sourcing for HIV health information which highlighted issues of inadequate or inaccessible HIV-cancer information. Our findings showed that targeted health education interventions are required to address the lack of HIV information among cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candidus Nwakasi
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
| | - Darlingtina Esiaka
- Department of Behavioral Science, Center for Health Equity Transformation (CHET), The University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Theresa Staab
- Department of Health Sciences, Providence College, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Aaron Akpu Philip
- Faculty of Health, School of Public Health, and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Brisbane, Australia
| | - Chizobam Nweke
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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2
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Rine S, Lara ST, Bikomeye JC, Beltrán-Ponce S, Kibudde S, Niyonzima N, Lawal OO, Mulamira P, Beyer KMM. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care including innovations implemented in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review. J Glob Health 2023; 13:06048. [PMID: 37976409 PMCID: PMC10656081 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.13.06048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused disruptions in the delivery and utilisation of cancer services. The impact of these interruptions is disproportionately borne by low- and middle-income countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). There are speculations of increased late-stage presentation and mortality as services are returning to the pre-pandemic state. This review aims to explore the extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacted cancer services across SSA and to identify innovations implemented across SSA to mitigate the impacts. Methods Using database-specific search strategies, a systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Ovid (MedLine), Web of Science, and African Index Medicus. Eligible studies included original research, reports, perspectives and summaries of national or regional outcomes published in the English language. The primary outcome was changes in the delivery and utilisation of cancer prevention and screening, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up services. The secondary outcome was to identify implemented innovations to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on service delivery. Results Out of the 167 articles identified in the literature search, 46 were included in the synthesis. A majority (95.7%) of the included articles described suspension and/or delay of screening, diagnosis, and treatment services, although two studies (4.3%) described the continuation of services despite the lockdown. Care was additionally impacted by transportation limitations, shortages of staff and personal protective equipment, disruption of the medication supply chain and patients' fears and stigma associated with contracting COVID-19. A major innovation was the use of telemedicine and virtual platforms for patient consultation and follow-up during the pandemic in SSA. Furthermore, drones and mobile applications were used for sample collection, medication delivery and scheduling of treatment. In some instances, medication routes and treatment protocols were changed. Conclusions The delivery and utilisation of cancer services decreased substantially during the pandemic. Cancer centres initiated innovative methods of care delivery, including telehealth and drone use, with long-term potential to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on service delivery. Cancer centres in SSA must explore sustainable, facility or country-specific innovations as services return to the pre-pandemic state. Registration The review was registered in PROSPERO with registration number CRD42022351455.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Rine
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Shana T Lara
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jean C Bikomeye
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sara Beltrán-Ponce
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | | | - Olatunji O Lawal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Kirsten MM Beyer
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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3
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Ojo C, Orji C, Adedeji A, Nwachukwu C, Fagbemi O. Cancer Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The African Narrative and Prospects. Cureus 2023; 15:e43803. [PMID: 37731407 PMCID: PMC10508643 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43803] [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: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare services globally. Whilst it has been particularly disruptive for cancer care in low-resource settings, a few African countries have been able to adapt strategies to enable continued delivery of medical care to persons with cancer. This study seeks to highlight how much effect the coronavirus pandemic has had on oncological care in Africa and to indicate the way forward. For this narrative review, PubMed and Google Scholar were used to search for literature addressing the effect of the coronavirus pandemic on the care of patients with cancer in Africa with ensuing coping strategies. Selection criteria were manuscripts published since the onset of the pandemic in 2019 and written in the English language with Africa being the focus. In total, 52 research papers involving up to 21 African nations were found and reviewed. Across the board, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the deferral of oncological screening programs and a halt in immunization activities routinely scheduled for preventable cancers. It caused a colossal shortage in the availability of appropriately trained medical personnel, reduced frequency and duration of outpatient consultations, and a delay in cancer investigations and diagnosis. It also stirred up the substandard modification of chemotherapy regimens and radiotherapy due to the scarcity of anticancer medications and radioisotopes and engendered the cancellation of cancer surgical procedures. Palliative care for patients with locally advanced and metastatic disease was in many cases interrupted and cancer research activities were abruptly deferred. Ultimately, these led to poor patient outcomes and increased cancer-related fatalities. However, a few African countries - Rwanda, Ghana, and Tunisia - have continued to adapt telemedicine, small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), and home therapy to facilitate cancer care. To date, there is a paucity of data concerning the successes and cost-effectiveness of these relatively new methods recently adapted to cater to the medical needs of cancer patients in Africa. The pandemic has presented the African community an opportunity to advance her healthcare systems, especially as it pertains to the delivery of medical care to persons with cancer. The need of the hour is to study further the alternative cancer care delivery systems initiated during the pandemic in order to determine their sustainability in Africa at large.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Ojo
- Emergency Department, United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Boston, GBR
| | - Chijioke Orji
- Trauma and Orthopaedics, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Wrexham, GBR
| | - Ayodeji Adedeji
- Emergency Department, Darlington Memorial Hospital, Durham, GBR
| | - Chibuike Nwachukwu
- Breast Surgery, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, GBR
| | - Ona Fagbemi
- General Surgery, University Hospital North Midlands, Stoke-on-Trent, GBR
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4
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Mbachu CO, Ekenna AC, Agbawodikeizu UP, Onwujekwe O. Role and use of evidence in health system response to COVID-19 in Nigeria: a mixed method study. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 44:191. [PMID: 37484579 PMCID: PMC10362686 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2023.44.191.38990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction evidence-based decision-making in health is an aspiration needed to effectively respond to current outbreaks and prepare for future occurrences. This paper examines the roles and use of evidence in health systems response to COVID-19 in Nigeria. Methods this was a mixed method study comprising nine key informant interviews and rapid review of 126 official online documents, journal articles and media reports published from December 2019 to December 2020 with a national and sub-national focus. Key informants were drawn from the government agencies that were involved in making or implementing decisions on the health sector response to COVID-19. Data collection was performed by three researchers. Thematic analysis and narrative synthesis of data was done. Results various forms of evidence were used to make decisions on Nigeria´s health system response to COVID-19, and these are broadly classified into three, namely, i) lessons learned from past experiences such as community engagement activities, early recognition of risks and deployment of non-pharmaceutical pandemic control measures, ii) proven interventions with contextual relevance like the emphasis on hand hygiene education for health workers, and iii) risk assessment and situation analysis reports like adopting a multi-sector response to COVID-19 control, expanding COVID-19 diagnostic laboratories to new sites across the country, and relax lockdown restrictions while maintaining key limitations to curb a spike in COVID-19 cases. Conclusion Nigeria´s health system response to COVID-19 upheld the use of evidence in making critical decisions on the prevention and control of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adanma Chidinma Ekenna
- Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Uju Patricia Agbawodikeizu
- Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Obinna Onwujekwe
- Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
- Department of Health Administration and Management, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
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5
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Joseph A, Shour AR, Lasebikan NN, Jimoh MA, Adegboyega BC, Nwachukwu E, Awofeso O, Ajose A, Ibraheem A, Fatiregun OA, Ali-Gombe M, Aliyu UM, Kotkat AE, Biyi-Olutunde OA, Oboh EO, Zubairu IH, Haider MR, Olatosi B, Puthoff D, Onitilo AA. Examining Cancer Patients' Perceptions of the Impact of COVID-19 on Teleoncology: Findings From 15 Nigerian Outpatient Cancer Clinics. JCO Glob Oncol 2023; 9:e2200221. [PMID: 36921242 PMCID: PMC10497253 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine cancer patients' perspectives on the impact of COVID-19 on teleoncology in Nigeria. METHODS Data from a multicenter survey conducted at 15 outpatient clinics to 1,097 patients with cancer from April and July 2020 were analyzed. The study outcome was telemedicine, defined as patients who reported their routine follow-up visits were converted to virtual visits because of COVID-19 (coded yes/no). Covariates included patient age, ethnicity, marital status, income, cancer treatment, service disruption, and cancer diagnosis/type. Stata/SE.v.17 (StataCorp, College Station, TX) was used to perform chi-square and logistic regression analyses. P values ≤ .05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS The majority of the 1,097 patients with cancer were female (65.7%) and age 55 years and older (35.0%). Because of COVID-19, 12.6% of patients' routine follow-ups were converted to virtual visits. More patients who canceled/postponed surgery (17.7% v 7.5%; P ≤ .001), radiotherapy (16.9% v 5.3%; P ≤ .001), and chemotherapy (22.8% v 8.5%; P ≤ .001), injection chemotherapy (20.6% v 8.7%; P ≤ .001) and those who reported being seen less by their doctor/nurse (60.3% v 11.4%; P ≤ .001) reported more follow-up conversions to virtual visits. In multivariate analyses, patients seen less by their doctors/nurses were 14.3 times more likely to have their routine follow-ups converted to virtual visits than those who did not (odds ratio, 14.33; 95% CI, 8.36 to 24.58). CONCLUSION COVID-19 caused many patients with cancer in Nigeria to convert visits to a virtual format. These conversions were more common in patients whose surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and injection chemotherapy treatments were canceled or postponed. Our findings suggest how COVID-19 affects cancer treatment services and the importance of collecting teleoncological care data in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adedayo Joseph
- NSIA-LUTH Cancer Center, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Abdul R. Shour
- Cancer Care and Research Center, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Marshfield, WI
- Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Marshfield, WI
| | | | - Mutiu A. Jimoh
- University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Lakeshore Cancer Center, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - Abiola Ibraheem
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | | | | | - Usman M. Aliyu
- Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bankole Olatosi
- Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Marshfield, WI
| | - David Puthoff
- Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Marshfield, WI
| | - Adedayo A. Onitilo
- Cancer Care and Research Center, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Marshfield, WI
- Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Marshfield, WI
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6
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Ezenwankwo EF, Nnaji CA, Moodley J. Cancer service delivery and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review. Ecancermedicalscience 2022; 16:1485. [PMID: 36819808 PMCID: PMC9934970 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2022.1485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on health systems is widely reported worldwide. However, what remains unclear is the relative extent of the pandemic's effects on cancer management in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This review provides an up-to-date synthesis of the literature to inform post-pandemic policy and practice efforts in the region. Methods Sources searched for published research include MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, African Index Medicus, African Wide Information and Web of Science. Using predefined criteria, the retrieved citations were screened for primary research describing the direct and indirect impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the cancer care and service delivery landscape in SSA since March 2020. Evidence was summarised using narrative synthesis. Results Fourteen studies reporting findings from 19 SSA countries were included in this review. Studies were conducted mostly in the first wave of the pandemic (between March and July 2020) (10/14). The most commonly reported impact on cancer treatment (including surgery) were cancellations, delays and modifications (11/14). Half (7/14) of the studies reported on the impact of the pandemic on cancer care resource availability and service restructuring. Other notable impacts included temporary suspension, total cancellations or alterations in cancer screening (3/14) and diagnostic (3/14) services or programmes. Disruptions in cancer research and outreach activities were also reported (3/14). The availability and maintenance of cancer healthcare depended on multiple factors like availability of clinical supplies, existing oncology workforce, adequate supply of personal protective equipment and local pandemic mitigation measures. Notably, no studies reported on the impact of the pandemic on psychosocial support programmes, physiotherapy and other rehabilitation care for cancer patients. Conclusion Changes in cancer care and service delivery due to the COVID-19 pandemic varied considerably across countries in SSA. This review underscores the need for urgent actions to mitigate current setbacks while recommending evidence-based and contextualised approaches to revitalising cancer care in the post-pandemic era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elochukwu F Ezenwankwo
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town 7925, Western Cape, South Africa,SAMRC Gynaecology Cancer Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa,Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Chukwudi A Nnaji
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town 7925, Western Cape, South Africa,SAMRC Gynaecology Cancer Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa,Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Moodley
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town 7925, Western Cape, South Africa,SAMRC Gynaecology Cancer Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa,Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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Mostafaei A, Sadeghi-Ghyassi F, Kabiri N, Hajebrahimi S. Experiences of patients and providers while using telemedicine in cancer care during COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative literature. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:10483-10494. [PMID: 36322247 PMCID: PMC9628519 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07415-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The objective of this meta-synthesis was to identify, appraise, and synthesize patients and provider’s experiences while using telemedicine in cancer care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The databases Medline, Embase, Cinahl, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and other related databases were searched. Reviewers followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) meta-aggregation method to identify categories and synthesized findings and to assign a level of confidence to synthesized findings. The listed quotations and the original author interpretations were synthesized using MAXQDA software. Results Nineteen studies were included in the meta-synthesis. Three synthesized findings emerged from 243 primary findings: telemedicine assists but cannot be a substitute for face-to-face appointments in a health care crisis and in the provision of routine care to stable patients with cancer, infrastructural drivers and healthcare provider’s support and attention affect patients’ experiences and feelings about telemedicine, and patients who use telemedicine expect their health care providers to devote enough time and consider emotional needs, the lack of which can develop a negative response. The methodological quality of the studies ranged between 4 and 10, and the overall level of confidence of the synthesized findings was determined to be low and medium. Conclusion The findings from this meta-synthesis gave a new insight to promoting the safe and evidence-based use of telemedicine during the current pandemic and future emergencies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00520-022-07415-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mostafaei
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center for Evidence‑Based Medicine: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadeghi-Ghyassi
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center for Evidence‑Based Medicine: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran ,grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Department of Health Information Technology, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Neda Kabiri
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center for Evidence‑Based Medicine: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran ,grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sakineh Hajebrahimi
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Research Center for Evidence‑Based Medicine: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Challinor J, Sierra MFO, Burns K, Young A. Oncology nursing in the Global South during COVID-19. Ecancermedicalscience 2022; 15:1329. [PMID: 35211198 PMCID: PMC8816499 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2021.1329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In mid-2020, a call was made to oncology nurses in the Global South to share their experiences managing patient care during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Eighteen submissions were received from 16 countries across Latin America, Africa, Europe and Asia. Three were research-based and 15 were personal narratives on the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 on the nurses, colleagues, patients and families. Three narratives were from oncology nurses working with cancer-related non-governmental organisations locally or, in one case, internationally. A simultaneous literature search for publications (including grey literature) was performed to identify themes of COVID-19’s impact in these 16 countries and specifically on oncology nurses and patients/families. Four themes were identified: a) interruptions to care; b) support/resource shortages; c) psychosocial impact on nurses and patients and d) staffing and nursing role impacts. The three research-based studies describe oncology nursing in-depth efforts to explore the impact of COVID-19. Findings in the 15 narratives are briefly presented according to the four themes identified in the literature. Due to the severe shortage of physician adult and paediatric oncology specialists, oncology nurses in the Global South often shoulder much of the care for patients with cancer and even more so during COVID-19 with attendant oncology nursing shortages due to reassignment to COVID-19 units. It is important to hear from these critical members of the oncology nursing workforce who often lack the time, resources or training to publish in peer-reviewed journals in English, particularly in the middle of a pandemic. Giving voice to these nurses documents the reality of their work and ability to continue to provide care despite the chaos and rapidly changing guidelines and government action. Lessons learned by these nurses to improve mental health and psychosocial support of the nurses as well as their patients/families will be essential for the next global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Challinor
- University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.,https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5008-8501
| | | | - Kathryn Burns
- Qualitative Research, Budapest, Hungary.,https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2695-1088
| | - Annie Young
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.,https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6611-6653
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Joseph A, Olatosi B, Haider MR, Adegboyega BC, Lasebikan NN, Aliyu UM, Ali-Gombe M, Jimoh MA, Biyi-Olutunde OA, Awofeso O, Fatiregun OA, Oboh EO, Nwachukwu E, Zubairu IH, Otene SA, Iyare OI, Andero T, Musbau AB, Ajose A, Onitilo AA. Patient's Perspective on the Impact of COVID-19 on Cancer Treatment in Nigeria. JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2100244. [PMID: 35157511 PMCID: PMC8853626 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of the global COVID-19 pandemic, health care organizations introduced guidelines for modifications to health and cancer medical care delivery to mitigate transmission and ensure quality health outcomes. To examine the extent and impact of these modifications on oncology service disruptions in Nigeria, we surveyed oncology patients across selected public and private cancer treatment centers. Service interruptions because of the COVID-19 pandemic—Nigerian cancer patients' experience.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Adedayo Joseph
- NSIA-LUTH Cancer Center, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Bankole Olatosi
- Health Services, Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
| | - Mohammad Rifat Haider
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | | | | | - Usman M Aliyu
- Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | | | - Mutiu A Jimoh
- University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria.,Lakeshore Cancer Center, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | - Opeyemi Awofeso
- Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idiaraba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Azeezat Ajose
- Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idiaraba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Adedayo A Onitilo
- Department of Oncology, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Marshfield, WI
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10
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Belloumi N, Bachouch I, Chermiti Ben Abdallah F, Fenniche S. Switching to a Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Center: Lessons From Ariana Hospital Experience. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2021; 16:1-5. [PMID: 33926612 PMCID: PMC8314047 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2021.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
After the translating of the worldwide pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disease from South East Asia to Europe, North African countries accelerate their steps to follow WHO guidelines to prepare the outbreak response. In March 2020, the Tunisian Ministry of Health switched Abderrahmen Mami Hospital to a COVID-19 center. The main objectives were management of patients but also setting-up new rules to permit enough safety for the staff members and harmony between medical, nonmedical, and administrative departments within the facility. Organization and communication during the fast-paced preparation process were crucial to get enough qualified human resources, material resources, and clear procedural texts in place before cases arrived in huge numbers. A group of medical and administrative experts within a central crisis unit brought this challenge into reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhal Belloumi
- Pulmonology Department “Pavilion 4”, Abderrahman Mami Hospital, Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Imene Bachouch
- Pulmonology Department “Pavilion 4”, Abderrahman Mami Hospital, Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Fatma Chermiti Ben Abdallah
- Pulmonology Department “Pavilion 4”, Abderrahman Mami Hospital, Ariana, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Soraya Fenniche
- Pulmonology Department “Pavilion 4”, Abderrahman Mami Hospital, Ariana, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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11
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Grossheim L, Ruff P, Ngoma T, Vanderpuye V, Mwango G, Ochieng P, Palmer D, Kouya F, Lasebikan N, Ntekim A, Ngoma M, Bih N, Malloum A, Elzawawy A, Kerr D, Ngwa W. Cancer and COVID-19 Experiences at African Cancer Centers: The Silver Lining. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 7:410-415. [PMID: 33760639 PMCID: PMC8081519 DOI: 10.1200/go.20.00564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted cancer care in Africa, further exposing major health disparities. This paper compares and contrasts the experiences of 15 clinicians in six different African cancer centers to highlight the positive aspects (silver linings) in an otherwise negative situation. METHODS Data are from personal experience of the clinicians working at the six cancer centers blended with what is available in the literature. RESULTS The impact of COVID-19 on cancer care appeared to vary not only across the continent but also over cancer centers. Different factors such as clinic location, services offered, available resources, and level of restrictions imposed because of COVID-19 were associated with these variations. Collectively, delays in treatment and limited access to cancer care were commonly reported in the different regions. CONCLUSION There is a lack of data on cancer patients with COVID-19 and online COVID-19 and cancer registries for Africa. Analysis of the available data, however, suggests a higher mortality rate for cancer patients with COVID-19 compared with those without cancer. Positive or silver linings coming out of the pandemic include the adoption of hypofractionated radiation therapy and teleoncology to enhance access to care while protecting patients and staff members. Increasing collaborations using online technology with oncology health professionals across the world are also being seen as a silver lining, with valuable sharing of experiences and expertise to improve care, enhance learning, and reduce disparities. Advanced information and communication technologies are seen as vital for such collaborations and could avail efforts in dealing with the ongoing pandemic and potential future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Ruff
- University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Twalib Ngoma
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Verna Vanderpuye
- National Center for Radiotherapy, Korlebu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mamsau Ngoma
- Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Noella Bih
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | | | - David Kerr
- John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Nnaji CA, Moodley J. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer diagnosis, treatment and research in African health systems: a review of current evidence and contextual perspectives. Ecancermedicalscience 2021; 15:1170. [PMID: 33680084 PMCID: PMC7929764 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2021.1170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has immensely disrupted health care services globally. The pandemic has been particularly disruptive for cancer services and more so in low-resource settings. In this narrative review, we highlight the reported impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and research across the African continent. We also explore ways in which identified structural and contextual constraints can be navigated for the re-escalation of oncological activities, while discussing how the pandemic has necessitated the reimagination of how oncology services can be delivered now and in the future. We conducted a literature search of MEDLINE (via PubMed) and Scopus for relevant articles and synthesised the findings thematically. In spite of the dearth of data, available evidence suggests a substantial impact of the pandemic on the various aspects of cancer management in African countries. Aggravating factors include pre-existing health system and cancer management gaps in many countries within the region, which are typically faced with inadequate availability of oncology resources, oncologists and other vital resources; in addition to the acute and lingering consequences of social distancing, movement restrictions and other public health measures implemented to contain the spread of the virus. As the pandemic evolves and movement restrictions are eased, there is a need for the timely and safe return to normal oncological care. This will require a risk-adjusted and multidisciplinary approach, with the aim of mitigating the further impact of the disruption on cancer patients, their families and healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwudi A Nnaji
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town; Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925 Cape Town, South Africa.,Cancer Research Initiative, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925 Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Moodley
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town; Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925 Cape Town, South Africa.,Cancer Research Initiative, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925 Cape Town, South Africa.,SAMRC Gynaecology Cancer Research Centre, University of Cape Town, 7925 Cape Town, South Africa
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