Cancer Multidisciplinary Teams in Africa: A Narrative Review of Their Role and Availability

Abstract

Multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) play a pivotal role in the care of cancer patients. With a progressive rise in the incidence of cancer diagnoses in the African subcontinent, there is an expectation that oncologic care should be standardized and fairly available, and central to this care is the establishment of a cancer MDT. This study aimed to explore the availability and role of oncologic MDTs in various centers in the African subcontinent. Data on Cancer MDTs were searched using keywords on PubMed, African Journal Online, and Google Scholar. Other relevant searches were conducted using the reference list of primary studies. There has been a 34% increase in the prevalence of MDT meetings among institutions in sub-Saharan Africa, spanning all regions of Africa, based on a survey conducted by the African Organisation for Research and Treatment in Cancer network in 2013 and repeated in 2021. Although there is an increase in the prevalence of MDT meetings in sub-Saharan Africa, spanning all regions of Africa, the mortality rate of cancer patients remains disproportionately high, with a mortality rate higher than that of Europe. Several centers across African countries do not have access to functioning oncologic MDTs, and those with access do have members frequently missing. Several factors mitigate against the establishment of cancer MDTs in Africa, including the lack of specialists, motivation of the healthcare staff, poor financial remuneration, and government policies. To ensure improved cancer care in Africa, efforts should be made to involve key stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, the government, and the private sector.

Keywords: cancer center; healthcare outcomes; multidisciplinary discussion; multidisciplinary team; oncology care; sub-saharan africa.