Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
12:03
In Vivo Model for Testing Effect of Hypoxia on Tumor Metastasis
Published on: December 9, 2016
Wilms tumor survival in Kenya
Jason Axt1, Fatmah Abdallah, Meridith Axt
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|July 13, 2013
Summary
Wilms tumor survival in Kenya has improved, with patients completing treatment achieving 94% event-free survival. Enrollment in the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) is linked to better treatment compliance and reduced mortality for pediatric cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Global Health
- Cancer Epidemiology
Background:
- Wilms tumor (WT) survival rates in developed nations exceed 90% at 5 years.
- In Kenya, reported 2-year event-free survival (EFS) for WT was critically low at 35%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors contributing to poor Wilms tumor outcomes in Kenya.
- Establish a web-based WT registry for comprehensive data collection.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of WT patients diagnosed between 2008-2012.
- Data abstraction included demographics, treatment, and National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) enrollment.
- Inclusion criteria: primary kidney tumor, age <15, confirmed WT histology.
Main Results:
- Overall 2-year EFS was 52.7% (n=133), with a 50% loss to follow-up (LTFU).
- Patients completing standard therapy (n=33) achieved a 94% 2-year EFS.
- NHIF enrollment correlated with higher treatment completion and significantly lower mortality hazard (Cox 0.192, p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Kenyan WT survival shows slight improvement.
- Completion of standard therapy yields survival rates comparable to developed countries.
- Enhancing WT treatment compliance via NHIF enrollment is crucial in Kenya.
