Empowering Radiology Residents in East Africa: The Impact of an Educational Initiative on Interventional Radiology Engagement
Behnam Shaygi, Nader Ashraf, Balowa Musa, Anusha Gandhi, Jared M. Alswang, Erick M. Mbuguje, Azza Naif, Martin Mutonga, Hamed Asadi, Danoob Dalili, Fabian M. Laage Gaupp, Vijay RamalingamAbstract
Introduction:
In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), access to interventional radiology (IR) is scarce. This study assesses Tanzanian radiology residents’ perceptions of IR, factors influencing their interest, and the impact of educational intervention.
Methods:
Radiology trainees in Tanzania received an IR lecture series from local and international interventional radiologists. Pre- and postlecture surveys measured their exposure to IR, interest levels, and awareness of relevant pathologies. Responses were analyzed by the Mann–Whitney
Results:
Among 68 residents, 44 (64.8%) and 40 (58.8%) completed the pre- and postlecture surveys, respectively. Before the intervention, limited exposure to IR was reported, with only 25.0% and 43.2% reporting prior hands-on and theoretical IR training, respectively. Attraction factors included technology (61.4%), diverse organ systems (54.6%), and curative potential (59.1%). Concerns included radiation risk (56.8%), procedural lifestyle (43.2%), and remote work options (36.4%). Most (88.6%) believed IR could benefit health care in SSA.
Conclusion:
Our study demonstrates that despite limited access, IR is generally well perceived among radiology trainees in East Africa, with high recognition of the specialty’s potential role in the region and an overall strong interest in the field. The significant impact of a brief educational intervention on residents’ interest and knowledge indicates the importance of incorporating IR education into radiology training programs in Tanzania and potentially across SSA to support the specialty’s growth and integration into healthcare systems. Given the novelty of IR in Tanzania, a better understanding of the unique qualities of the specialty among potential future interventional radiologists is key to cultivating growth in the region.