Pediatric urology in low-income settings: A nationwide assessment of equipment availability and human resources in Senegal.

BACKGROUND

Pediatric urology in low-income countries is expanding due to demographic and epidemiological factors, yet data on workforce capacity and equipment availability remain limited. This study provides a nationwide assessment of pediatric urology resources in Senegal.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate human resources, training exposure, clinical practice patterns, and availability of pediatric urology equipment across Senegal.

STUDY

DESIGN

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted from October 2024 to January 2025 using national directories of pediatric surgeons and urologists. An online survey collected data on training background, clinical practice, perceived challenges, and access to pediatric urology equipment. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Ninety practitioners responded, including all pediatric surgeons practicing nationally and 60 % of registered urologists. Active involvement in pediatric urology was reported by 88.9 % of respondents. Formal degree-level pediatric urology training was completed by 2.2 %, while 20 % reported international training experience. Equipment availability varied markedly across regions: functional cystoscopes were available in 34.3 % of facilities, laser lithotripsy in 20 %, nephroscopes in 11.4 %, and no functional cystomanometers or bladder scanners were identified. Limited access to equipment was the most frequently reported challenge.

DISCUSSION: These findings are consistent with reports from other low-resource settings and highlight persistent gaps in subspecialty training and access to essential pediatric urology infrastructure. The study is limited by self-reported data and incomplete response among urologists.

CONCLUSION

This nationwide survey identifies critical gaps in pediatric urology capacity in Senegal. The findings provide a data-driven foundation to inform workforce planning, equipment allocation, and the development of context-appropriate strategies to strengthen pediatric urology services in similar low-resource settings.