Proceedings of the African Pathologists Summit; March 22-23, 2013; Dakar, Senegal: a summary

Abstract

Context: This report presents the proceedings of the African Pathologists Summit, held under the auspices of the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer.

Objectives: To deliberate on the challenges and constraints of the practice of pathology in Sub-Saharan Africa and the avenues for addressing them.

Participants: Collaborating organizations included the American Society for Clinical Pathology; Association of Pathologists of Nigeria; British Division of the International Academy of Pathology; College of Pathologists of East, Central and Southern Africa; East African Division of the International Academy of Pathology; Friends of Africa-United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology Initiative; International Academy of Pathology; International Network for Cancer Treatment and Research; National Cancer Institute; National Health and Laboratory Service of South Africa; Nigerian Postgraduate Medical College; Royal College of Pathologists; West African Division of the International Academy of Pathology; and Faculty of Laboratory Medicine of the West African College of Physicians.

Evidence: Information on the status of the practice of pathology was based on the experience of the participants, who are current or past practitioners of pathology or are involved in pathology education and research in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Consensus process: The deliberations were carried out through presentations and working discussion groups.

Conclusions: The significant lack of professional and technical personnel, inadequate infrastructure, limited training opportunities, poor funding of pathology services in Sub-Saharan Africa, and their significant impact on patient care were noted. The urgency of addressing these issues was recognized, and the recommendations that were made are contained in this report.