In South Africa, the healthcare system is increasingly challenged by a growing number of adult cancer patients who also suffer from multiple chronic diseases. This situation, known as multimorbidity, refers to the coexistence of two or more chronic conditions in an individual. It significantly complicates treatment and care, especially in resource-limited settings like South Africa.
A study funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) sought to explore the prevalence and impact of multimorbidity among adult cancer patients in South Africa. The aim was to identify the common chronic diseases that coexist with cancer and to assess the challenges and gaps in managing these complex health needs within the country’s public healthcare system.
To achieve these goals, the researchers conducted an in-depth review and analysis of existing data from both national and sub-Saharan sources. They focused on studies conducted in South African public health settings, particularly those involving cancer patients at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and other sites across sub-Saharan Africa. The analysis compared local data with broader regional and global trends to understand the impact of multimorbidity on patient outcomes and the effectiveness of current healthcare approaches.
The study found that a significant number of adult cancer patients in South Africa suffer from multimorbidity. Common coexisting conditions include hypertension, diabetes, HIV, and obesity. In a cohort of South African women with breast cancer, 44% had two or more chronic conditions, with obesity and hypertension being particularly common. And among men with prostate cancer, similar patterns were observed, though with a lower prevalence of HIV. Multimorbidity was found to negatively affect patients’ ability to manage and respond to cancer treatment. This leads to poorer health outcomes, including a decreased quality of life and a higher likelihood of complications during treatment.
The study concludes that South Africa’s public healthcare system is not well-equipped to handle the complex needs of cancer patients with multi-morbidity. The traditional approach, which often focuses on treating a single disease, is inadequate for addressing the challenges posed by multiple chronic conditions. To improve care for these patients, the study recommends the development of integrated care models that prioritise patient-centred approaches. These models should include better communication between healthcare providers and the creation of comprehensive management plans that address all of a patient’s coexisting conditions. By doing so, the healthcare system can provide more effective and coordinated care, ultimately improving the quality of life and treatment outcomes for cancer patients in South Africa.