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Background: Cancer poses a significant burden in Ethiopia. According to Global Cancer Statistics (GLOBOCAN), there were over 25,000 new cancer cases and over 18,000 cancer deaths in Ethiopia in 2020. Despite the increasing burden of cancer in Ethiopia, the availability and accessibility of cancer treatment options are limited and inadequate. Precision medicine has the potential to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment outcomes by providing personalized and targeted therapies based on individual characteristics. However, its implementation in resource-limited countries like Ethiopia faces numerous barriers. Understanding these barriers is crucial for designing effective interventions and improving cancer care.
Objective: The study aims to explore barriers faced in the implementation of precision medicine in cancer diagnosis and treatment in Ethiopia from the perspectives of healthcare providers.
Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted at the oncology department of Tikur Anbesa Specialized Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Nine healthcare professionals, including senior clinical oncologists and a medical physicist, were purposively selected as study participants. Data were collected through audio-recorded interviews using an interview guide with open-ended questions. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data.
Results: The study identified several barriers to the implementation of precision medicine in Ethiopia. Financial constraints, limited infrastructure and resources, lack of knowledge and awareness among healthcare providers, unclear regulations, and patient-related factors were identified as significant hurdles. The findings highlighted the challenges faced by low-income countries in adopting precision medicine.
Conclusion and recommendations: The study concluded that Ethiopia requires a multi-pronged approach to implement precision medicine in cancer care. The government should prioritize investing in sophisticated diagnostic facilities nationwide, cultivate robust bioinformatics capabilities, and establish comprehensive training programs for healthcare professionals. Funding models should be explored, including public-private partnerships and international collaborations. Healthcare providers should engage in continuous professional development, advocate for precision medicine, and participate in research activities. Stakeholders and donors should support research, training, and infrastructure development to ensure equitable access to precision medicine for all Ethiopian citizens.
Keywords: Precision medicine, cancer diagnosis and treatment, barriers, Ethiopia
............. Thesis available at ACIPH Library |
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