Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Charles D. Mackenzie, Sunny Mante
Summary: LF is a debilitating and disfiguring medical condition with severe psychosocial consequences, and global efforts have been made in the past 20 years to provide care and surgical treatment for patients. However, challenges such as stigma, resource provision, and maintaining programme support have hindered the full implementation of patient care within GPELF.
INTERNATIONAL HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Kathryn L. Zoerhoff, Pamela S. Mbabazi, Katherine Gass, John Kraemer, Brian B. Fuller, Lynsey Blair, Roland Bougma, Aboulaye Meite, Nebiyu Negussu, Bizuayehu Gashaw, Scott D. Nash, Nana-Kwadwo Biritwum, Jean Frantz Lemoine, Helena Ullyartha Pangaribuan, Eksi Wijayanti, Karsor Kollie, Clara Fabienne Rasoamanamihaja, Lazarus Juziwelo, Square Mkwanda, Pradip Rimal, Issa Gnandou, Bocar Diop, Ameyo Monique Dorkenoo, Rachel Bronzan, Edridah Muheki Tukahebwa, Fatima Kabole, Violetta Yevstigneyeva, Donal Bisanzio, Lauren Courtney, Joseph Koroma, Egide Endayishimye, Richard Reithinger, Margaret C. Baker, Fiona M. Fleming
Summary: Delivering preventive chemotherapy through mass drug administration (MDA) is an important approach in controlling or eliminating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Reported treatment coverage is often used to estimate coverage, but it may be inaccurate due to errors in data compilation. This study shows that for most MDAs, the routinely reported data is accurate enough to make programmatic decisions.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Choden Lama Yonzon, Retna Siwi Padmawati, Raj Kumar Subedi, Sagun Paudel, Ashmita Ghimire, Elsa Herdiana Murhandarwati
Summary: The study found that most respondents lacked knowledge about hydrocele as a clinical manifestation of LF and its transmission through mosquito bites. Patients mostly believed in and practiced home remedies, while fear of surgery, embarrassment, lack of funds, and unawareness of free hydrocele surgery were identified as barriers to accessing treatment.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Sarah Martindale, Hayley Mableson, Christopher Bodimeade, Hannah Hume, Xavier Badia, Jahirul Karim, A. S. M. Sultan Mahmood, John Chiphwanya, Pradip Rimal, Pelagie Boko-Collins, Roland Bougma, David Agyemang, Bright Alomatu, Abdourahim Cisse, Salissou Adamou Bathiri, Joy Shu'aibu, Hannah Betts, Louise A. Kelly-Hope, Nick Riches
Summary: A hydrocoele surgery facility assessment tool (HSFAT) was developed to assess the readiness of hydrocoele surgery services. The tool evaluates facilities across multiple domains and identifies key areas for improvement, enabling the development of a quality improvement plan to meet the requirements set by the World Health Organization.
INTERNATIONAL HEALTH
(2022)
Review
Parasitology
Negar Bizhani, Saeideh Hashemi Hafshejani, Neda Mohammadi, Mehdi Rezaei, Mohammad Bagher Rokni
Summary: The study examined the prevalence of LF in Asia, estimating the overall prevalence at 3% with no significant trend over time. Some countries in Asia have successfully eliminated LF as a public health problem, while others still need to monitor the disease.
PARASITOLOGY RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Abinet Teshome, Mekuria Asnakew Asfaw, Chuchu Churko, Manaye Yihune, Yilma Chisha, Birhanu Getachew, Nebiyu Negussu Ayele, Fikre Seife, Tamiru Shibiru, Zerihun Zerdo
Summary: A survey in the Itang special district of Gambella region in Ethiopia found that the coverage for LF treatment was 81.5%. The study revealed a significant difference in treatment coverage between school age children (5-14) and individuals aged 15 and above.
INFECTION AND DRUG RESISTANCE
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Eliza Lupenza, Dinah B. Gasarasi, Omary M. Minzi
Summary: The study found that low transmission of LF is still ongoing in Masasi District after six rounds of MDA and vector control interventions. The use of molecular tools for monitoring LF transmission during the elimination phase may be essential.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF POVERTY
(2021)
Article
Parasitology
Shannon M. Hedtke, Patsy A. Zendejas-Heredia, Patricia M. Graves, Sarah Sheridan, Meru Sheel, Saipale D. Fuimaono, Colleen L. Lau, Warwick N. Grant
Summary: This study explored the genetic variation of Wuchereria bancrofti worms in Polynesia, particularly in American Samoa. The research found that the resurgent parasites in American Samoa represent a single population and did not observe significant population genetic structure among regions or villages in 2016. The study provides valuable insights for informing strategies on managing the resurgence and elimination of lymphatic filariasis.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Molly A. Brady, Emily Toubali, Margaret Baker, Elizabeth Long, Caitlin Worrell, Kapa Ramaiah, Patricia Graves, T. Deirdre Hollingsworth, Louise Kelly-Hope, Diana Stukel, Bhupendra Tripathi, Arianna Rubin Means, Sultani Hadley Matendechero, Alison Krentel
Summary: This study aims to explore the impact of the never-treated population on neglected tropical disease elimination programs. The research includes the number of never-treated individuals, their characteristics, infection status, and reasons for not receiving treatment. Key issues discussed in the meetings include standardizing measurement methods, data collection, and ensuring representation of the never-treated population.
INTERNATIONAL HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Gary J. Weil, Peter U. Fischer, Alison Krentel
Summary: Early clinical trials showed the effectiveness of triple drug therapy with ivermectin plus DEC and albendazole for clearing microfilaremia in lymphatic filariasis patients. However, further large-scale studies were needed to justify policy changes. The World Health Organization's endorsement of this regimen for mass drug administration relied on the results of these studies.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HYGIENE
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Myra Hardy, Josaia Samuela, Mike Kama, Meciusela Tuicakau, Lucia Romani, Margot J. Whitfeld, Christopher L. King, Gary J. Weil, Anneke C. Grobler, Leanne J. Robinson, John M. Kaldor, Andrew C. Steer
Summary: A study conducted in 35 villages in Fiji showed that there was no significant difference in the clearance of lymphatic filariasis between the combination of ivermectin and albendazole (IDA) and albendazole alone (DA) within 12 months, both at the individual and community levels.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Christabel Khaemba, Abbie Barry, Wyckliff P. Omondi, Kefa Bota, Sultani Matendechero, Cecilia Wandera, Fred Siyoi, Elvis Kirui, Margaret Oluka, Pamela Nambwa, Parthasarathi Gurumurthy, Sammy M. Njenga, Anastacia Guantai, Eleni Aklillu
Summary: A large-scale prospective study in Kenya investigated adverse events following mass drug administration of diethylcarbamazine citrate and albendazole for lymphatic filariasis elimination. The study found a high cumulative incidence of AEs, with most being mild and resolving within 72 hours. Factors such as older age, concurrent medication use, and type of meal before administration were significant predictors of AEs.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Alison Krentel, Margaret Gyapong, Deborah A. McFarland, Olumide Ogundahunsi, Christiana R. Titaley, David G. Addiss
Summary: Since the launch of GPELF in 2000, over 910 million people have received preventive chemotherapy for lymphatic filariasis, but challenges moving forward towards 2030 include global demographic, financing, and programmatic changes. Further research and community partnership are needed to eliminate LF as a public health problem.
INTERNATIONAL HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Natalya Kostandova, Luccene Desir, Abdel Direny, Alaine Knipes, Jean Frantz Lemoine, Carl Renand Fayette, Amy Kirby, Katherine Gass
Summary: The study highlights the potential misclassification risks when combining evaluation units with varying prevalences of lymphatic filariasis. The findings indicate the importance of using alternative strategies, such as mini-TAS or additional data collection, in areas with high or heterogeneous prevalence.
PLOS NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Anjali Modi, Keshav G. Vaishnav, Kailash Kothiya, Neal Alexander
Summary: The study in Surat City, India, highlights the importance of monitoring residual microfilaremia in high-risk populations to secure the gains of LF elimination programs. Despite reaching MDA endpoints, a sub-group analysis revealed that high-risk groups still had higher prevalence of microfilaremia, emphasizing the need for customized surveillance and treatment strategies.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF POVERTY
(2021)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Haribondhu Sarma, Kinley Wangdi, Md Tariqujjaman, Ratish Das, Mahfuzur Rahman, Matthew Kelly, Tahmeed Ahmed, Darren J. Gray
Summary: The study found that children exposed to both deworming and effective MNP coverage were 30% less likely to be anaemic compared to children unexposed to combined MNP + Deworming, highlighting the importance of using integrated and multidisciplinary intervention strategies in reducing anaemia prevalence.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Tsheten Tsheten, Phurpa Tenzin, Archie C. A. Clements, Darren J. Gray, Lhawang Ugyel, Kinley Wangdi
Summary: With support from several countries including India, the United States, Denmark, China, and Croatia, Bhutan was able to successfully conduct two rounds of nationwide vaccination campaign, inoculating over 95% of its eligible population. The success can be attributed to strong national leadership, well-coordinated national preparedness plan, and effective mass communication and social engagement.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF POVERTY
(2022)
Article
Psychology, Clinical
Feifei Huang, Wei-Ti Chen, Cheng-Shi Shiu, Sai Htun Lin, Min San Tun, Thet Wai Nwe, Yin Thet Nu Oo, Htun Nyunt Oo
Summary: The study successfully adapted the English version of the 12-item Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised (CAMS-R) to create a reliable and valid 9-item CAM-R-M-2 in Myanmar. The scale showed significant associations with HIV stigma and social support levels, accurately reflecting mindfulness qualities in people living with HIV.
Article
Nursing
Feifei Huang, Wei-Ti Chen, Cheng-Shi Shiu, Sai Htun Lin, Min San Tun, Thet Wai Nwe, Yin Thet Nu Oo, Htun Nyunt Oo
Summary: This study examines the relationship between HIV stigma and perceived stress among people with HIV in Myanmar, and the mediating role of mindfulness. The findings suggest that enhancing mindfulness-based practice could be an effective intervention to reduce HIV stigma and lower perceived stress among individuals with HIV in Myanmar.
JANAC-JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF NURSES IN AIDS CARE
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Fahmi Fahmi, Ayodhia Pitaloka Pasaribu, Minerva Theodora, Kinley Wangdi
Summary: This study investigated the risk factors of malaria in Northern Sumatera. The findings revealed that military personnel, forest workers, and miners had a higher risk of imported malaria, and climatic factors were associated with the incidence of indigenous malaria.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Koh Kawaguchi, Elorm Donkor, Aparna Lal, Matthew Kelly, Kinley Wangdi
Summary: This study analyzed the spatial, temporal, and spatio-temporal patterns of malaria in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. It identified hotspots and clusters of malaria cases as well as their associations with climatic factors and sociodemographic characteristics. The findings suggest the need to strengthen malaria control and prevention in hotspot districts during appropriate months to improve program effectiveness.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Rose Hosking, Suji Y. O'Connor, Kinley Wangdi, Johanna Kurscheid, Aparna Lal
Summary: Inadequate access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is a risk factor for poor health outcomes, especially for children in low- and middle-income countries. While many interventions aimed at improving WASH access have been developed, there is a need for a consistent approach to including, defining, and measuring acceptability in the implementation of these interventions. Few studies have explicitly defined the measures of acceptability in the WASH sector.
PLOS NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Md. Tariqujjaman, Mahfuzur Rahman, Kinley Wangdi, Gobinda Karmakar, Tahmeed Ahmed, Haribondhu Sarma
Summary: Food insecurity has a detrimental impact on maternal and child health, with varying prevalence across different regions of Bangladesh. This study examined the geographical variations in food insecurity and its associated factors. The findings revealed hotspots of food insecurity in the northwestern, central-southwestern, and coastal districts of Bangladesh. Factors such as levels of education, household wealth status, and poverty reduction strategies were found to be associated with lower odds of food insecurity. Comprehensive interventions targeting poverty reduction and education for all could effectively reduce food insecurity in rural households in Bangladesh.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Tashi Wangchuk, Ugyen Wangdi, Ugyen Tshering, Kinley Wangdi
Summary: Non-pharmacological measures such as hand hygiene and face mask use are crucial in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. However, little is known about adherence to these measures among students in Bhutan. A study was conducted to investigate hand hygiene and face mask-wearing behaviors among students in Mongar Higher Secondary School, Bhutan. Results showed that less than one-third of students reported good hand hygiene and face mask use. Factors associated with these behaviors include gender, grade level, and residential status. It is recommended to educate students about these measures through popular information sources.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Kwuntida Uthaisar Kotepui, Onchuma Mueangson, Wanida Mala, Aongart Mahittikorn, Kinley Wangdi, Manas Kotepui
Summary: The study aimed to determine the association between blood levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the severity of malaria. The results showed that individuals with malaria had lower blood levels of SOD compared to those without malaria infection. However, there was no significant difference in blood levels of SOD between severe and nonsevere malaria patients.
ANTIOXIDANTS & REDOX SIGNALING
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Kinley Penjor, Ugyen Zangpo, Dorji Tshering, Benedikt Ley, Ric N. Price, Kinley Wangdi
JOURNAL OF TRAVEL MEDICINE
(2023)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Yanisa Rattanapan, Thitinat Duangchan, Kinley Wangdi, Aongart Mahittikorn, Manas Kotepui
Summary: There is inconsistency in the risk of malaria between individuals with Rhesus blood group positive (Rh+) and negative (Rh-). A systematic review found no difference in malaria risk between Rh+ and Rh- individuals.
TROPICAL MEDICINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE
(2023)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Thitinat Duangchan, Manas Kotepui, Suriyan Sukati, Yanisa Rattanapan, Kinley Wangdi
Summary: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a potentially life-threatening condition that causes systemic coagulation and the depletion of coagulation factors. The evidence for DIC in malaria patients remains unclear, with varying results from small case series and retrospective studies. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the evidence of DIC among malaria patients using a meta-analysis approach. The study found that the proportion of DIC in malaria was 11.6%, with higher rates in severe falciparum malaria and fatal malaria. The study provides important information for the management of malaria patients and further research is needed to understand the association between Plasmodium infection and DIC.
TROPICAL MEDICINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE
(2023)
Review
Nutrition & Dietetics
Manas Kotepui, Polrat Wilairatana, Wanida Mala, Kwuntida Uthaisar Kotepui, Frederick Ramirez Masangkay, Kinley Wangdi
Summary: This systematic review investigated the effects of zinc supplementation on the risk of malaria parasitaemia. The analysis revealed that zinc supplementation, either alone or in combination with other micronutrients, did not significantly alter the risk of malaria parasitaemia.
Article
Health Policy & Services
Wei-Ti Chen, Feifei Huang, Cheng-Shi Shiu, Sai Htun Lin, Min San Tun, Thet Wai Nwe, Yin Thet Nu Oo, Htun Nyunt Oo
Summary: Limited studies in Myanmar have explored the impact of social support on HIV-related stigma and perceived stress, indicating the need for alternative strategies to reduce perceived stress among PLWH.
AIDS CARE-PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIO-MEDICAL ASPECTS OF AIDS/HIV
(2023)