Challenges and role of surgeons in the organization of multidisciplinary tumor boards in Sub-Saharan Africa: Results of a national survey in Benin

Introduction In Sub-Saharan Africa, cancer is characterized by high mortality despite relatively low incidence, mainly due to late diagnosis and limited adherence to guidelines. Multidisciplinary tumor boards (MTBs) are essential to improve decision-making, yet their implementation remains difficult in resource-limited settings. Surgeons, who often occupy a central position in cancer care pathways, may play a key role in promoting MTBs. This study assessed the current state of MTB practices in Benin's public hospitals and analyzed the role of surgeons in their organization in Sub-Saharan Africa. Method A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical survey was carried out in 38 public hospitals in Benin using an online physician questionnaire. Participants were selected using simple randomization via Python to ensure a representative view of practices and avoid selection bias. Results Among 38 hospitals, only 15.8%, mainly university hospitals, organized MTBs in 2024. Diagnostic and therapeutic resources availability was limited: 13% of hospitals had access to computed tomography (CT), 15.8% offered chemotherapy services, and none had radiotherapy facilities. MTBs were predominantly implemented in hospitals with greater diagnostic and therapeutic resources. Conclusion This first national survey highlights the very limited implementation of MTBs in Benin, largely confined to better-equipped hospitals in a context of severe diagnostic and therapeutic shortages. Strengthening surgeon leadership and institutional support could facilitate the expansion of MTBs and contribute to improving cancer care coordination in resource-limited settings.