Improving access to affordable quality-assured inhaled medicines in low- and middle-income countries

BACKGROUND: Access to affordable inhaled medicines for chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) is severely limited in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), causing avoidable morbidity and mortality. The Inter-national Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease convened a stakeholder meeting on this topic in February 2022.METHODS: Focused group discussions were informed by literature and presentations summarising experiences of obtaining inhaled medicines in LMICs. The virtual meeting was moderated using a topic guide around barriers and solutions to improve access. The thematic framework approach was used for analysis.RESULTS: A total of 58 key stakeholders, including patients, healthcare practitioners, members of national and international organisations, industry and WHO representatives attended the meeting. There were 20 pre-meeting material submissions. The main barriers identified were 1) low awareness of CRDs; 2) limited data on CRD burden and treatments in LMICs; 3) ineffective procurement and distribution networks; and 4) poor communication of the needs of people with CRDs. Solutions discussed were 1) generation of data to inform policy and practice; 2) capacity building; 3) improved procurement mechanisms; 4) strengthened advocacy practices; and 5) a World Health Assembly Resolution.CONCLUSION: There are opportunities to achieve improved access to affordable, quality-assured inhaled medicines in LMICs through coordinated, multi -stake-holder, collaborative efforts.

Automated summary

This study aimed to explore the barriers and solutions to accessing inhaled medicines for chronic respiratory diseases in low- and middle-income countries. Findings revealed issues including limited awareness, data scarcity, inefficient procurement and distribution, and poor communication of needs. Solutions proposed include generating data, capacity building, improving procurement mechanisms, and strengthening advocacy practices.