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Review
. 2017 Apr;3(2):E52-E59.
doi: 10.1055/s-0043-103948. Epub 2017 Jun 7.

Opportunities and Challenges in Realizing Universal Access to Obstetric Ultrasound in Sub-Saharan Africa

Sikolia Z Wanyonyi  1 , Charles Muriuki Mariara  2 , Sudhir Vinayak  3 , William Stones  4
Affiliations
Review

Opportunities and Challenges in Realizing Universal Access to Obstetric Ultrasound in Sub-Saharan Africa

Sikolia Z Wanyonyi et al. Ultrasound Int Open. 2017 Apr.

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.

Keywords: perinatal outcomes; sub-Saharan Africa; training; ultrasound.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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