CHEST Guidelines-Improving-Outcomes-for-ARDS-in-Sub-Saharan-Africa

Improving-Outcomes-for-ARDS-in-Sub-Saharan-Africa_

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This editorial emphasizes the pressing need to improve outcomes for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), particularly in the context of COVID-19. ARDS, a severe lung condition that results from inflammatory lung injury and is notably prevalent in severe COVID-19 cases, has varied mortality rates globally. These rates are often higher in low-income regions like SSA compared to high-income countries (HICs), due to limited healthcare resources.<br /><br />In SSA, especially early in the pandemic, COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality appeared low. However, recent data suggest a significant incidence of severe cases and deaths often surpassing rates observed in HICs. A study by Kwizera et al. highlighted in this editorial identifies gaps in the understanding of ARDS in SSA and the challenges in providing adequate respiratory support due to under-resourced healthcare systems, including unreliable electricity and oxygen supplies, and a shortage of trained medical personnel.<br /><br />The study found high 28-day mortality rates among patients with severe ARDS in Uganda, underlining the urgent need for improvements in clinical outcomes for ARDS. Proposed measures emphasize enhancing healthcare infrastructure, non-invasive monitoring, and clinician training to deliver acute, high-quality care. The editorial also calls for more epidemiologic and clinical research specific to the region to tailor ARDS management strategies to local needs.<br /><br />Additionally, leveraging advanced translational science and understanding the unique clinical and molecular features of the patient population in SSA is essential. Such efforts can lead to more precise and effective trials and treatment strategies, improving the standard of care for ARDS within SSA. The editorial stresses that it is pivotal to act now to bridge these inequities in global health.

Keywords

ARDS

sub-Saharan Africa

COVID-19

healthcare resources

Kwizera et al.

respiratory support

Uganda

clinical outcomes

epidemiologic research

translational science