Challenges of gynaecological cancer care in Nigeria - a review article

Abstract

Gynecological cancers and their management in the tropics constitute a big challenge to the gynaecological oncologist considering the overwhelming economic burden of care on patients and their relatives. These challenges are numerous and present at different levels vis-a-vis of prevention, diagnosis, treatment of the disease and patients' follow up. The main thrust of this review was to illustrate the challenges affecting gynecological cancer care in Nigeria and proffer potential opportunities for their early identification while making recommendations that may be beneficial in ameliorating their effects and impacts. Methodology: Electronic search of local and international literatures was conducted in major database s including PubMed, Web of Science, Science direct, EMBASE, SpringerLink, Scopus, JSTOR, JaypeeDigital, and Google Scholar using appropriate MESH terms either individually or in combination. All relevant peer-reviewed articles and publications were identified, retrieved and reviewed. Results: Challenges of management of gynecological cancers are enormous and diverse. They vary at different levels of care and included poverty, lack of access to health care inadequate or absence of basic infrastructure for cancer care and lack of political will. Delay at different levels of care leading to late presentation remains a leading factor that negatively contributes to survival. Conclusion: Gynaecological cancer care in the tropics is a big challenge to health care providers. Efforts should be intensified in prompt identification of these challenges and offering solutions that will help in improving the health of our women.