Uganda’s inadequate availability of neurosurgeons is affecting the early diagnosis and treatment of children with Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida.
As reported by the Ministry of Gender Labor and Social Development, the country presently has only 12 neurosurgeons, with the thirteenth one succumbing to Covid-19.
The shortage of neurosurgeons has resulted in many children with neurological issues being unable to access timely medical care. This information was disclosed by the Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hellen Grace Asamo, during a media briefing at the Uganda Media Center on Tuesday. The briefing was held in recognition of World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day.
Asamo highlighted that Hydrocephalus impacts over 8,000 individuals annually, with 40% of these cases being post-infectious hydrocephalus, 30% linked to Spina Bifida, and the remaining 30% associated with congenital hydrocephalus.
The increasing number of patients, Asamo stated, is primarily due to limited access to essential services, such as qualified medical professionals for diagnosis, surgeries, rehabilitation therapies, and a lack of specialized care centers. Furthermore, the insufficient awareness and understanding of these conditions hinder early diagnosis and management, resulting in additional complications.
In response to these challenges, Asamo has committed to working with the Ministry of Health and ministerial advocacy groups to advocate for an increase in medical professionals specializing in Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus treatment and management in Uganda.
This call comes ahead of World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day, observed every 25th of October, with the theme “Accessibility for All: Empowering Lives and Embracing Differences.” In Uganda, the commemoration will take place at the Imperial Royale Hotel.
