Closing the diagnostic gap: Liquid biopsy potential to transform ovarian cancer outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa.

Ovarian cancer presents a significant health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where late-stage diagnosis contributes to high mortality rates. This diagnostic gap arises from limited resources, poor healthcare infrastructure, and a lack of awareness about the disease. However, a potential game-changer is emerging in the form of liquid biopsy (LB), a minimally invasive diagnostic method. This paper analyses the current diagnostic gap in ovarian cancer in SSA, highlighting the socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural factors that hinder early diagnosis and treatment. It discusses the challenges and potential of LB in the context of SSA, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and adaptability to resource-limited settings. The transformative potential of LB in SSA is promising, offering a safer, more accessible, and cost-effective approach to ovarian cancer diagnosis. This paper provides recommendations for future directions, emphasizing the need for research, infrastructure development, stakeholder engagement, and international collaboration. By recognizing the transformative potential of LB and addressing the diagnostic gap, we can pave the way for early detection, improved treatment, and better outcomes for ovarian cancer patients in SSA. This paper sheds light on a path toward better healthcare access and equity in the region. Copyright © 2024 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

Citation

Emmanuel Kokori, Gbolahan Olatunji, Ikponmwosa Jude Ogieuhi, Ifeanyichukwu Muogbo, David Isarinade, Bonaventure Ukoaka, Irene Ajayi, Chidiogo Ezenwoba, Owolabi Samuel, Habeebat Nurudeen-Busari, David B Olawade, Nicholas Aderinto. Closing the diagnostic gap: Liquid biopsy potential to transform ovarian cancer outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa. Medicine. 2024 Feb 02;103(5):e37154

Mesh Tags

PMID: 38306573

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