Research Article
Journal of Global Hematology
Volume 1, Issue 1, 2020, Pages 1-17 
10.18081/JGH/2020.1/1
Sambit Singh 1, Ramasamy Bhatnagar, Kamaldeep Tveito, Chethana Kumar, Mathew Nagaraja *
Abstract
Background: Thalassemia remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in developing countries where healthcare infrastructure and access to specialized care are limited. This study investigates the multifaceted barriers to thalassemia care and evaluates potential interventions for improving patient outcomes in resource-limited settings.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, analyzing data from multiple developing countries (n=1,250 patients) across different socioeconomic strata. Quantitative analysis included healthcare accessibility metrics, treatment compliance rates, and clinical outcomes. Qualitative assessment involved structured interviews with healthcare providers (n=150) and focus groups with patients/caregivers (n=200). Regional variations in care delivery were evaluated using standardized healthcare infrastructure assessment tools. Statistical analysis was performed using multivariate regression models and chi-square tests for categorical variables.
Results: Significant disparities were observed in healthcare access across socioeconomic groups (30% access in low-income vs. 95% in high-income groups, p<0.001). Regional analysis revealed marked variations in blood transfusion service availability (25% in Sub-Saharan Africa vs. 70% in Latin America, p<0.001). Treatment compliance showed gender-specific patterns (female: 88% vs. male: 85% in 0-10 age group, p=0.03) and declined with age (58% in 41+ age group, p<0.001). Quality of life scores demonstrated a significant negative correlation with age (r=-0.78, p<0.001) and positive correlation with treatment adherence (r=0.82, p<0.001). Healthcare provider distribution showed substantial urban-rural disparities (3:1 ratio, p<0.001).
Conclusions: This comprehensive analysis identifies critical gaps in thalassemia care delivery in developing countries, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study demonstrates that socioeconomic factors, geographical location, and healthcare infrastructure significantly impact patient outcomes. Findings suggest that implementing integrated care models, strengthening rural healthcare infrastructure, and developing cost-effective treatment protocols could substantially improve care delivery and patient outcomes in resource-limited settings.
Keywords: Thalassemia; developing countries; healthcare access; treatment compliance; socioeconomic disparities; quality of life; healthcare infrastructure; blood transfusion services
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All articles published in The Journal of Global Hematology (JGH) are licensed under Copyright Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.