To evaluate treatment outcomes and prognostic factors for paediatric AML in Uganda, highlighting the need for improved care.
Key Findings:
Five-year overall survival rates for paediatric AML in Uganda remain below 40%, significantly lower than in high-income countries.
High rates of early mortality (30-day induction mortality rate of 32%) and 12-month mortality rate of 70% were observed.
Factors such as malnutrition and lack of standardised treatment protocols significantly impact outcomes.
Interpretation:
The study highlights the severe challenges faced in treating paediatric AML in Uganda, including high mortality rates and the influence of socioeconomic factors on prognosis, which necessitates urgent action.
Limitations:
Limited access to cytogenetic and molecular analyses.
Data primarily from three centres may not represent the entire population, introducing potential biases.
Conclusion:
There is an urgent need for improved treatment protocols and supportive care, particularly in addressing malnutrition and standardising treatment, to enhance outcomes for children with AML in Uganda.
