Sub-Saharan Africa

STATE OF LOCATIONS

A large population and a high demographic rate

The population of sub-Saharan Africa has certainly reached one billion in 2020 and is expected to number 1.8 billion by 2050 (United Nations, 2001). These two figures show the magnitude of the challenges that sub-Saharan Africa represents in the 21st century. In addition, it is the region of the world that experiences the highest rates of population growth, on average 2.6% (when the world population grows at a rate of 1.3% and all developing countries at around 1.6%). )

A still high poverty rate

According to UNDP reports, 40% of West African populations are below the poverty line. All economic data illustrate the extent of the major imbalances between industrialized countries and Africa.

Major obstacles to the social and economic development of countries

• Random and often failing electricity supply

PERSPECTIVES

Despite a delay in the field of Information and Communication Technologies, the current growth of Smartphones and tablets, as well as the increase in the penetration of mobile and Internet services, should allow this type of practice to flourish. Telemedicine interests in Africa

• Democratizing access to care
• Breaking the isolation of populations
• Addressing the shortage of specialists
• Strengthening existing infrastructure through multimedia

ITS PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS IN MEDICAL SPECIALITIES

Neurology: The most remarkable application is that of the management of cerebrovascular Vascular Accidents (CVA). For effective management of a stroke, it must be diagnosed within 4h30 and effective treatment initiated as soon as possible.

Telemedicine allows neurologists to consult remotely through teleconsultation via video conferencing. He can also view images of the scanner through teleradiology (like radiologists) that will help him make his diagnosis.

Cardiology and in particular the "tele-ECG": The main indication of ECG (Electro cardiogram) is the incidence of high blood pressure known to be high in young African patients;

Four main areas are identified:

1. connected health interventions in the field of cardiovascular prevention, lifestyle changes and blood pressure testing,
2. telemedicine to monitor patients with chronic heart disease, in particular home medical telemonitoring,
3. early detection of cardiac arrhythmias (ear and ventricular fibrillation) with remote surveillance
4. telerehabilitation of the heart

Dermatology: The importance of visual examination in dermatology makes it an application of choice. Dermatology is a model relevant to the implementation of telemedicine thanks to its characteristics, including an important part of visual diagnosis in clinical practice.

Some areas of application:

• Improved management of skin cancers
• Management of pigmented lesions
• Chronic dermatosis and trophic disorders
• Child skin rashes

Diabetology: The examination of the diabetic foot is an example adapted to the use of teleconsultation.

Radiology: teletransfer of images and their remote interpretation is a major saving for patients consulted. It is one of the oldest telemedicine practices.