Paediatric radiology seen from Africa. Part I: providing diagnostic imaging to a young population

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Paediatric Radiology
• Global Health

Background:

• Paediatric radiology demands specialized equipment, radiation safety protocols, and expert knowledge.
• Developing countries, particularly in Africa, face significant challenges in delivering adequate paediatric imaging services.
• Children in these regions are vulnerable to poverty, lack of care, and diseases like tuberculosis, HIV, and pneumonia, making imaging crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical need for enhanced paediatric radiology services in developing countries.
• To advocate for the expansion and support of initiatives like the World Health Imaging System for Radiography (WHIS-RAD).
• To propose solutions involving teleradiology and volunteer efforts from paediatric radiologists and societies.

Main Methods:

• Review of challenges in paediatric radiology provision in developing countries.
• Identification of existing initiatives (e.g., WHIS-RAD, Rotary, World Health Imaging Alliance).
• Proposal for teleradiology-based reporting, consultation, and quality assurance.

Main Results:

• Existing World Health Organisation initiatives like WHIS-RAD require further development, including maintenance services.
• New initiatives for installing WHIS-RAD units and digital solutions need robust support.
• Teleradiology offers a viable solution for paediatric radiologists to provide pro bono services.

Conclusions:

• Paediatric radiology in developing countries is hampered by resource limitations and specific health challenges.
• Collaborative efforts, including volunteer teleradiology and expanded imaging systems, are essential.
• Focused guidelines and optimized imaging solutions are needed to improve child healthcare outcomes.