Opportunities and Challenges in Realizing Universal Access to Obstetric Ultrasound in Sub-Saharan Africa
Sikolia Z Wanyonyi1, Charles Muriuki Mariara2, Sudhir Vinayak3
1Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aga Khan University - Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya.
Insights
Obstetric ultrasound access in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains limited, hindering efforts to reduce poor perinatal outcomes. Further research is needed to integrate this vital technology into antenatal care for better maternal and infant health.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Public Health
- Global Health
Background:
- Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces a high burden of perinatal morbidity and mortality.
- The full benefits of obstetric ultrasound are not yet realized in SSA.
- Limited access to obstetric ultrasound contributes to poor perinatal outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review challenges and opportunities for universal access to obstetric ultrasound in SSA.
- To explore requirements for integrating obstetric ultrasound into maternity care in SSA.
- To address the significant burden of perinatal morbidity and mortality in SSA.
Main Methods:
- A literature review was conducted using a 'realist' approach.
- Searches were performed in various electronic databases for original peer-reviewed literature.
- The review focused on challenges and opportunities for obstetric ultrasound access in SSA.
Main Results:
- Available data were inconclusive regarding the direct impact of current access levels.
- Numerous opportunities for future research within SSA were identified.
- The literature highlights the need for a strong evidence base to support universal access.
Conclusions:
- Universal access to obstetric ultrasound is crucial for improving perinatal outcomes in SSA.
- Further research is essential to build a case for integrating ultrasound into comprehensive antenatal care.
- Addressing barriers and leveraging opportunities can make obstetric ultrasound an integral part of maternity care in SSA.
Abstract:
The potential benefits of obstetric ultrasound have yet to be fully realized in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), despite the region bearing the greatest burden of poor perinatal outcomes. We reviewed the literature for challenges and opportunities of universal access to obstetric ultrasound and explored what is needed to make such access an integral component of maternity care in order to address the massive burden of perinatal morbidity and mortality in SSA. Original peer-reviewed literature was searched in various electronic databases using a 'realist' approach. While the available data were inconclusive, they identify many opportunities for potential future research on the subject within the region that can help build a strong case to justify the provision of universal access to ultrasound as an integral component of comprehensive antenatal care.
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