Impact of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on the practice of minimally invasive urological surgery and the role of international cooperation: the current situation in Africa, 2023

Abstract

Survey data was employed to examine the impact of gross domestic product (GDP) on the practice of endourology and minimally invasive urological surgery, and the role of international cooperation in Africa. This is primarily a review of the data in the literature on the level of practice of minimally invasive urological surgery in Africa. Minimally invasive urological surgery is the set of procedures (endoscopic, laparoscopic, robotic, etc.) that allow minimal access with better safety and fewer complications. Compared to other regions of the world, this practice is low in Africa. This review comprises five main sections: (i) from global health to global surgery, (ii) public health spending and disparities in care in Africa,( iii) data and interpretation, iv) overview of global urology in Africa and elsewhere some: Literature-based overview, and (v) the challenges of minimally invasive surgery in Africa and the Role of International Cooperation. The third point is based on new data (from a survey). Others deal mainly with current challenges to the practice of minimally invasive urological surgery in Africa, and some perspectives. The overall economic level of a country (GDP) can affect training and equipment in the public health sector, hence the finding that the practice of minimally invasive urological surgery is still low in Africa. However, targeted and sustainable action can be taken to meet this challenge and have a positive impact. Among these actions, oriented cooperation can play a key role.