Barriers to Access Exploring Treatment Challenges Faced by Pediatric Cancer Patients in Uganda

Pediatric cancer poses a significant global challenge due to stark disparities in treatment outcomes between higher-income and lower-income regions. As such, this review examines the critical factors contributing to a staggering 70 percent mortality rate among pediatric cancer patients in Uganda.2,3 This review identifies key institutional, national, and patient barriers, including inadequate diagnostic facilities, limited access to specialized care, and a severe shortage of oncologists. Furthermore, it highlights the impact of financial constraints, logistical challenges, and lack of awareness and education on timely cancer diagnosis and treatment. This review aims to outline these factors and propose comprehensive recommendations, thereby reducing survival disparities and improving the quality of pediatric cancer care in Uganda. Recommendations include enhancing diagnostic infrastructure, expanding access to treatment through regional cancer centers, and increasing the number of healthcare oncologists through targeted training and incentives. Additionally, this review advocates for an enhanced supply of cancer medications and the integration of telementoring to enhance healthcare capacity. We believe that through strategic intervention, Uganda can be empowered to achieve more equitable pediatric cancer care and improved survival rates.