Work

Setting up an Intra‐Arterial Chemotherapy Center in a Low‐Resource Country in Sub‐Saharan Africa

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) has shown promise in improving outcomes for patients with Retinoblastoma (RB) globally. Creating a safe, effective, and sustainable IAC center in Ghana, a country with a high RB burden, will provide access to much-needed specialized treatment for patients with RB. Aim: This study aims to outline key considerations, obstacles, and opportunities for setting up an IAC center in a low-resource country. Methods: This narrative implementation report describes the establishment of an IAC service through a KBTH-Euracare partnership. Service requirements, barriers, and costs were identified from routine planning meetings, site reviews, stakeholder consultations, supplier information, and early implementation experience, informed by international centers and adapted locally. The model combines Euracare's infrastructure with trained KBTH personnel, mentorship, and knowledge transfer. Lessons reflect a descriptive review of implementation decisions and challenges. Findings: Cost analysis revealed that the most viable strategy would be a phased implementation, beginning with a public-private partnership anchored by a major tertiary hospital to ensure scalability and resource optimization. Potential enablers include training and skills transfer, existing radiology units, and collaboration from international partners to support capacity-building initiatives. Key barriers to establishing an IAC center in Ghana include lack of trained specialists, high equipment costs, and financial constraints. Conclusion: Establishing an IAC center in a low-resource country requires careful planning, coordination, and resource allocation. Despite the challenges, there are opportunities for partnerships, technology transfer, task-shifting, research, and innovation.

Source: Public Health Challenges

DOI: 10.1002/puh2.70434