Published in PLOS One on 2026-03-23, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Sadik Abdulwehab, Frezer Kedir, Kahsu Gebrekidan
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0345299
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Palliative care is vital for cancer management in low- and middle-income countries like Ethiopia, but underutilization leads to unmanaged symptoms and reduced patient quality of life, and fragmented studies hinder evidence-based planning and policy development. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to synthesize existing literature to estimate the utilization rate of Palliative care among cancer patients in Ethiopia and to identify key influencing factors.
This study employed a systematic review and meta-analysis design to assess Palliative care utilization and its influencing factors among cancer patients in Ethiopia, sourcing evidence from various electronic databases until April 07, and studies published between 2015 and 2024 were included. The data was extracted from June 10–20 and analyzed from June 21–30, with report generation till July 27, 2025, using R software. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model, with forest plots illustrating pooled prevalence and associated factors. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic, and study quality was evaluated by using a validated tool, the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist.
A total of nine cross-sectional studies involving 2,839 cancer patients were included. The pooled Palliative care utilization rate was 42% (95% CI: 30%–54%). Educational attainment (pooled AOR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.42–3.75) and male gender (pooled AOR = 5.58; 95% CI: 3.01–10.33) were factors significantly associated with Palliative care utilization.
This review showed the Palliative care utilization rate was 42%. Palliative care utilization in Ethiopia remains insufficient, reflecting systemic, socioeconomic, and geographic inequities. Expanding access will require decentralization of services to reach rural communities, integration of Palliative care into primary healthcare, investment in workforce capacity, and improved patient and family awareness. Strengthening these areas is essential to ensure equitable, patient-centered, and sustainable Palliative care delivery in Ethiopia.
CRD420251027739.
Introduction
Cancer remains a significant public health challenge globally, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) experiencing a disproportionate burden [1–3]. LMICs often lack adequate healthcare infrastructure, leading to late-stage cancer diagnoses and limited treatment options, resulting in higher mortality rates compared to high-income countries [4].
The International Agency for Research on Cancer reported in 2020, 19.3 million new cancer cases and 10.0 million cancer-related deaths globally, 70% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries [5,6]. In Ethiopia, there were 80,034 new cancer cases and 54,698 cancer-related deaths in 2022 [7]. Currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of comprehensive care approaches that go beyond curative treatment, incorporating Palliative care [8].
Palliative care is a patient-centered, multidisciplinary approach that aims to improve the quality of life of individuals with life-threatening illnesses through early identification and management of physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs [9]. Despite its proven benefits, Palliative care access remains severely limited worldwide, with fewer than 15% of those in need receiving care due to service shortages, lack of trained personnel, and poor integration into health systems [10,11]. These challenges are especially severe in low- and middle-income countries, where limited awareness, inadequate training, lack of structured services, cultural beliefs, geographic barriers, and socioeconomic inequities reduce Palliative care utilization [11].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider research & evidence desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Sadik Abdulwehab, Frezer Kedir, Kahsu Gebrekidan. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
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