The current state of paediatric gastroenterology in under resourced nations

Abstract

Background: Paediatric gastroenterology (GI) care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) faces substantial challenges due to limited healthcare infrastructure, inadequate resources, and a shortage of specialized healthcare professionals. These challenges lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, exacerbating the morbidity and mortality associated with paediatric GI diseases, which include both infectious conditions like diarrhoea and chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and liver diseases. Aim: The aim of this review is to examine the current state of paediatric GI care in LMICs, identify the key challenges these regions face, and propose strategies to improve healthcare outcomes for children affected by GI disorders. Methods: This review synthesizes existing literature from a range of LMICs, analyzing factors such as the economic burden of healthcare, barriers to access, the availability of diagnostic and therapeutic services, and the state of paediatric hepatology and endoscopy. Studies included in the review were sourced from countries in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and other LMIC regions, focusing on paediatric GI disorders and healthcare delivery. Results: Economic Burden: Families in LMICs face significant economic barriers in accessing paediatric GI care, with treatment costs often exceeding household income, especially in private healthcare settings. Healthcare Access: Limited access to healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas, coupled with the shortage of trained paediatric gastroenterologists and necessary medical equipment, leads to delayed diagnoses and inadequate care for conditions like Helicobacter pylori infections and chronic liver diseases. Sanitation and Infectious Diseases: Poor sanitation and lack of access to clean water contribute to the high prevalence of diarrhoeal diseases, which can be reduced through better hygiene practices and improved infrastructure. Training Gaps: The shortage of trained healthcare workers, particularly paediatric specialists, hinders effective care delivery, with healthcare workers often overburdened due to workforce migration and low salaries. Hepatology and Endoscopy: Paediatric hepatology, especially in the context of viral hepatitis, and the availability of paediatric GI endoscopy are severely limited in LMICs, further complicating the management of liver diseases and GI conditions in children. Conclusion: Improving paediatric GI care in LMICs requires addressing systemic challenges such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited financial resources, and a shortage of trained professionals. Prevention strategies like vaccination, sanitation improvements, and public health education campaigns are crucial for reducing the prevalence of paediatric GI diseases. In addition, enhancing access to specialized training, healthcare services, and diagnostic tools will improve outcomes for children in resource-limited settings. Continued international collaboration and investment in local healthcare systems are essential for creating sustainable solutions and bridging the gap in paediatric GI care.