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A comprehensive review of otorhinolaryngological global health concerns

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 October 2019

Declan C Murphy
Declan C Murphy*
Affiliation:
Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, UK
*
Author for correspondence: Dr Declan C Murphy, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK E-mail: murphy.declan.1994@gmail.com
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Abstract

Background

ENT disease prevalence, risk factors and treatment vary between developed and developing countries. Health provision, particularly disease prevention strategies and surgery, in developing countries is poor, manifesting as a high frequency of common and preventable diseases. Healthcare systems in developing countries are unsustainable, and the technological advances that provide ENT surgery with novel diagnostic and treatment opportunities are inaccessible.

Conclusion

A multifaceted approach is essential to improve the care of patients with ENT diseases in developing countries. Public health efforts must focus on educating the local community, reducing high-risk behaviours and decreasing the frequency of preventable diseases. Governments must be pressured to prioritise the funding of long-term, sustainable efforts with effective disease prevention strategies. Providing local healthcare professionals with high-quality ENT training so that self-sustaining and low-cost care can be delivered, mainly in a primary care setting, is key.

Keywords

Global HealthOtorhinolaryngology

Information

Type
Review Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 133 , Issue 11 , November 2019 , pp. 930 - 935
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited, 2019 

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Footnotes

Dr D C Murphy takes responsibility for the integrity of the content of the paper

Presented at the ENT UK Spring Annual Meeting, 23 March 2018, York, UK, and winner of the ENT UK Student Essay Prize 2017.

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