This study assessed the age of primary surgery for orofacial clefts (OFCs) in African children using data from 161,035 patients across 40 countries. Only 28.8% received timely surgery (≤6 months for cleft lip, ≤12 months for cleft palate), while over 70% underwent surgery later than recommended. Although surgical volume and early intervention rates improved from 2014–2023, most children still experience delayed care. The study emphasizes the need for better access to early cleft treatment, stronger health infrastructure, and community education to reduce delays.
Read full paper : https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105014957702
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