Building capacity for pediatric hematological diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

The spectrum of hematological diseases in African children includes anemias, bleeding disorders, thromboses, and oncological diseases such as leukemias. Although data are limited, outcomes for these diseases are poorer in Africa. The dearth of specialists, and lack of infrastructure that supports diagnosis and management, have been identified as key barriers to improving outcomes for childhood hematological disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). To address these, intentional capacity building efforts addressing education and training, diagnostic capacity, and access to blood products and medicines are needed. This article explores some ongoing efforts in the region aimed at fostering the capacity to identify and treat childhood hematological disorders across a breadth of initiatives targeting the critical themes of education, diagnostic support, and treatment. We also identify existing opportunities through international partnerships, to build sustainable programs that can support children with hematological diseases in SSA.