| dc.contributor.author | Stolbrink, M; Chinouya, MJ; Jayasooriya, S; Nightingale, R; Evans-Hill, L; Allan, K; Allen, H; Balen, J; Beacon, T; Bissell, K; Chakaya, J; Chiang, CY; Cohen, M; Devereux, G; El Sony, A; Halpin, DMG; Hurst, JR; Kiprop, C; Lawson, A; Mace, C; Makhanu, A; Makokha, P; Masekela, R; Meme, H; Khoo, EM; Nantanda, R; Pasternak, S; Perrin, C; Reddel, H; Rylance, S; Schweikert, P; Were, C; Williams, S; Winders, T; Yorgancioglu, A; Marks, GB; Mortimer, K | |
| dc.description.abstract | BACKGROUND: Access to affordable inhaled medicines for chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) is severely limited in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), causing avoidable morbidity and mortality. The Inter-national Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease convened a stakeholder meeting on this topic in February 2022.METHODS: Focused group discussions were informed by literature and presentations summarising experiences of obtaining inhaled medicines in LMICs. The virtual meeting was moderated using a topic guide around barriers and solutions to improve access. The thematic framework approach was used for analysis.RESULTS: A total of 58 key stakeholders, including patients, healthcare practitioners, members of national and international organisations, industry and WHO representatives attended the meeting. There were 20 pre-meeting material submissions. The main barriers identified were 1) low awareness of CRDs; 2) limited data on CRD burden and treatments in LMICs; 3) ineffective procurement and distribution networks; and 4) poor communication of the needs of people with CRDs. Solutions discussed were 1) generation of data to inform policy and practice; 2) capacity building; 3) improved procurement mechanisms; 4) strengthened advocacy practices; and 5) a World Health Assembly Resolution.CONCLUSION: There are opportunities to achieve improved access to affordable, quality-assured inhaled medicines in LMICs through coordinated, multi -stake-holder, collaborative efforts. | |
