Quantitative exploration of barriers to access cancer patients in Lesotho

Abstract

Background: Cancer mortality has been estimated to increase in sub-Saharan Africa to more than a million deaths in 2023. There is a need for an increase in cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment infrastructure to curb this rise in cancer mortality. Many people with cancer face significant barriers to accessing treatment. Aim: The study aimed to explore barriers to accessing cancer care services experienced by cancer patients in Lesotho. Setting: This study was conducted at the Senkatana oncology clinic in Maseru, Lesotho. Methods: The study adopted a quantitative cross-sectional design. Cancer patient interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 115 patients responded to the questionnaire, and 79.1% were female. Over half of the participants (53.9%) found it difficult to access cancer services because they had to get services from multiple healthcare facilities in different areas. All of them had to join long queues. Distance from the healthcare facilities was also a challenge for a significant number (64.3%), and a substantial number (66.1%) had difficulties arranging transport to such facilities. Finally, financial issues, such as paying for transport, healthcare and diagnostic tests, were determined to be major constraints. Conclusion: The study concludes that most cancer patients face financial and practical barriers. This affects access to cancer services, particularly for patients not residing in Maseru. Contribution: The study shares information regarded as barriers to cancer services in a low- and middle-income country.