Evidence map›Paper›PMID 40437424›Full record

ArticleBMC cancer2025

Navigating cancer care in Cameroon: a theory-guided inquiry on patient experiences at Mbingo Baptist Hospital.

Glenn Mbah Afungchwi, Eric Makiyighome Tum, Laurie Elit, Cancer Quality Improvement Team at Mbingo Hospital

Abstract read
In one paragraph

Article in BMC cancer, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.

0numbers the graph read from it
0cells of the map it votes in
1citing papers in PubMed
–field-weighted citation impact
1 · What the graph read from it

What it found

Each row is one number read from the abstract, on the scale the paper reported it, with its interval. Left of the dashed line favours the treatment, right favours the comparator. Under each row is the sentence it came from. New to these charts? A ten-minute tutorial.

The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.

2 · The registry

The trial behind it

Trials whose registry record cites this paper, or whose number appears in the abstract. A trial that started after this paper was published is citing it as background, not reporting it.

Neither the registry nor the abstract names a trial number. If this is a trial report, that itself is worth knowing.

3 · Its place in the literature

Who cites it

1 citing paper in PubMed.

  1. Article
4 · The record

Corrections and comments

PubMed lists nothing against this paper. Absence here is not a guarantee, only a check that was made.

5 · Who and what money

Authors and funding

4 authors.

Glenn Mbah AfungchwiDepartment of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Bamenda, Bamenda, Cameroon. mbahlos@gmail.com.
Eric Makiyighome TumInformation and Vocational Guidance Counselling Centre, Bamenda, 5018, Cameroon.
Laurie ElitDepartment of Oncology, Mbingo Baptist Hospital, Bamenda, Cameroon.
Cancer Quality Improvement Team at Mbingo Hospital

Funding

Pfizer 76049131
6 · The paper itself

Abstract

backgroundCancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with rising incidence rates, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This burden is pronounced in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where Cameroon faces escalating cancer challenges, primarily due to inadequate healthcare infrastructure and limited access to early detection and treatment. The study aimed to explore the experiences of cancer patients at Mbingo Baptist Hospital in Cameroon in Cameroon, focusing on the barriers to obtaining quality diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, and to examine the impact of these challenges on their physical, emotional, and social well-being.

methodsThis study employed a qualitative descriptive design, conducting in-depth interviews with eleven cancer patients in December 2023 and January 2024. Participants were selected using purposive sampling, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key barriers in the cancer care pathway. The biopsychosocial model guided the exploration of patients' experiences, capturing the interplay between biological, psychological, and social dimensions of their healthcare journey.

resultsThe analysis revealed significant delays in diagnosis, substantial financial burdens, and emotional and psychological distress among patients. Key themes identified include challenges in the diagnosis and treatment processes, the financial impact of cancer care, emotional and psychosocial repercussions, and difficulties in accessing healthcare services. Despite facing these obstacles, patients also reported instances of resilience and support within their families and communities.

conclusionThe study underscores the urgent need for systemic improvements in cancer care in Cameroon and similar contexts. Enhancing healthcare infrastructure, broadening financial protection, and fostering awareness and early detection are imperative. Additionally, integrating a holistic care approach that considers the biopsychosocial aspects of patient health is crucial for improving outcomes. Addressing these recommendations requires collaborative efforts from governmental and non-governmental organizations, healthcare providers, and the international community to tailor cancer control strategies to the unique needs of LMICs, aiming to alleviate the cancer burden and enhance patient quality of life.

Indexed as

Health Services AccessibilityNeoplasmsAdultAgedCameroonFemaleHumansMaleMiddle AgedQualitative ResearchBiopsychosocial modelCameroonCancer careHealthcare barriersPatient experiencesSub-Saharan Africa

Identifiers

PMID40437424
PMCPMC12117920

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Registered trials

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Read under generation 80e0d062 · epoch 390. Bibliography from PubMed, PubMed Central and OpenAlex; grants from NIH RePORTER; trial links from ClinicalTrials.gov; estimates, votes and beliefs from the OpenQuestion graph.