The current state of Spina Bifida in low- and middle-income countries: where does Africa stand?
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Inibehe Ime Okon1, Agbeniga Elijah Temitope2, Ibukunolu Olufemi Ogundele3
1Department of Neurosurgery, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Texas, United States; Benjamin S. Carson (Snr) College of Health and Medical Sciences, Babcock University, IIishan-Remo, Ogun State 121003, Nigeria.
Insights
Spina bifida, a birth defect affecting the spine, remains a major health issue in African low- and middle-income countries. Collaborative efforts are crucial to improve care and support for affected children.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatric Neurology
- Global Health
Background:
- Spina bifida is a congenital neural tube defect impacting spine and central nervous system development.
- While global rates have decreased, it persists as a significant challenge in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), especially in Africa.
- Affected infants experience diverse physical disabilities and complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively assess current epidemiological trends of spina bifida in African LMICs.
- To analyze clinical management practices and socioeconomic impacts of spina bifida in these regions.
- To identify barriers to prevention and care for spina bifida in African LMICs.
Main Methods:
- Systematic analytical literature search of major medical databases (2000-2023).
- Extraction of data on prevalence, risk factors, clinical features, treatments, outcomes, and barriers.
- Analysis and synthesis of findings to provide a contemporary overview.
Main Results:
- The study synthesizes current data on spina bifida epidemiology, management, and socioeconomic effects in African LMICs.
- Identifies key challenges and barriers in preventing and managing spina bifida within these contexts.
- Highlights the need for targeted interventions and improved healthcare access.
Conclusions:
- Addressing spina bifida in African LMICs requires integrated strategies and stakeholder collaboration.
- Promoting equitable access to comprehensive care and support is essential for affected individuals and families.
- Continued research and public health initiatives are vital to mitigate the burden of spina bifida in the continent.
Abstract:
Spina bifida is a congenital neural tube defect that results in abnormal development of the spine and central nervous system. Infants born with this condition face a range of physical disabilities and associated complications. Although the global burden has declined in recent decades due to folic acid fortification and prenatal screening, spina bifida remains a significant public health challenge in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This research aimed to comprehensively assess the current epidemiological trends, clinical management practices, and socioeconomic impacts of spina bifida across African LMICs. Through a systematic analytical search of published literature from major medical databases covering the years 2000-2023, relevant data were extracted on the prevalence, risk factors, clinical presentations, treatment modalities, outcomes, and contextual barriers faced in preventing and caring for spina bifida in these settings. The findings were analyzed and synthesized to provide an overview of the contemporary landscape. The findings highlight the need for collaborative efforts between governments, healthcare providers, nongovernmental organizations, and international stakeholders to address the multifaceted challenges posed by spina bifida in LMICs, particularly within the African continent, and to promote equitable access to comprehensive care and support for affected individuals and their families.
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