Barriers and Solutions to Effective Arthritis Training in West Africa

Wambui Kibibi J.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

                                                                          ABSTRACT
Arthritis, encompassing over 100 musculoskeletal conditions, is an increasing public health concern in West Africa, driven by aging populations, urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases. Despite its growing prevalence, effective management is hindered by systemic barriers, including shortages of specialized healthcare professionals, inadequate training, limited continuing medical education, insufficient infrastructure, and socio-cultural misconceptions that delay care-seeking and adherence to treatment. This review critically examines these barriers, highlighting the structural, educational, financial, and cultural challenges that impede effective arthritis training in the region. Furthermore, it explores potential solutions, including enhancing continuing medical education, integrating culturally sensitive approaches, strengthening policy and institutional support, improving healthcare infrastructure, and leveraging digital and telemedicine platforms. By providing context-specific recommendations, this review underscores the importance of a multi-pronged strategy to equip healthcare providers, improve early diagnosis and management, and reduce the socio-economic and quality-of-life burden associated with arthritis in West Africa.

Keywords: Arthritis, West Africa, Healthcare Training, Rheumatology, Continuing Medical Education.

CITE AS: Wambui Kibibi J. (2026). Barriers and Solutions to Effective Arthritis Training in West Africa. INOSR APPLIED SCIENCES 14(2):107-111. https://doi.org/10.59298/INOSRAS/2025/14.2.107111