Behavioural oncology research in Africa: Lessons from the last two decades and key considerations moving forward.

Publisher: Wiley Country of Publication: England NLM ID: 9301979 Publication Model: Print-Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 1365-2354 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 09615423 NLM ISO Abbreviation: Eur J Cancer Care (Engl)

Publication: <1992- > : Oxford : Wiley
Original Publication: London : [Marston Book Services], 1991-

Behavioral Research* ; Health Promotion*; Ethiopia ; Humans ; Nigeria ; South Africa

Objective: To analyse the state of behavioural oncology research in Africa and outline key considerations for future research.
Methods: Five bibliographic databases were searched to identify original English-language articles published between January 2000 and August 2020. The Behavioural Epidemiology Framework was applied to studies with data/findings from Africa to delineate their current state. Research gaps/opportunities available for behavioural oncology research in Africa were further highlighted.
Results: Two hundred eighty-seven original research with findings from Africa has been published over the last two decades, with the highest contribution arising from Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia and South Africa. Cervical and breast cancers were the most widely investigated. Prominently studied behaviours relate to cancer screening, health literacy, lifestyle, and vaccination. Behavioural oncology literature in Africa is generally in Phases I and III and lacks in measurement studies (<2%) and studies that seek to evaluate behaviour change/health promotion interventions (<6%) or translate them into practice (13.2%).
Conclusion: Embracing new and progressive approaches, including methodological/analytical paradigms and implementation science is imperative to advance the frontiers of behavioural oncology research in Africa. This calls for a responsive research approach that can mobilise multidisciplinary/multilevel coalitions, ensuring a research structure that effectively integrates behavioural research and cancer prevention/control in the region.
(© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

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Keywords: Africa; behavioural epidemiology framework; behavioural oncology; cancer prevention and control; health behaviour; scoping review

Date Created: 20211221 Date Completed: 20220510 Latest Revision: 20220510

20240104

10.1111/ecc.13545

34931724