Article
Infectious Diseases
Michelle D. S. Boakye, Collins J. Owek, Elizabeth Oluoch, Sefa Bonsu Atakora, Juddy Wachira, Yaw A. Afrane
Summary: The study found that training, updates, remuneration, and providing necessary tools are important factors in helping CHWs sustain their services and enhance the efficient delivery of CCMm.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Nicholas Paul Oliphant, Nicolas Ray, Andrew Curtis, Elizabeth Musa, Momodu Sesay, Joseph Kandeh, Anitta Kamara, Kebir Hassen, Shane O'Connor, Yuki Suehiro, Hailemariam Legesse, Ebeny Francois Temgbait Chimoun, Debra Jackson, Tanya Doherty
Summary: Little is known about strategies for optimizing the scale and deployment of community health workers to improve geographic accessibility of primary healthcare services. The study uses data from Sierra Leone to explore the optimization of the scale and deployment of community health workers, providing insights for current policy and future plans.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Nicholas Paul Oliphant, Nicolas Ray, Khaled Bensaid, Adama Ouedraogo, Asma Yaroh Gali, Oumarou Habi, Ibrahim Maazou, Rocco Panciera, Maria Muniz, Zeynabou Sy, Samuel Manda, Debra Jackson, Tanya Doherty
Summary: This study provides the first estimates of geographical accessibility to community health posts and CHWs at the national scale in Niger, highlighting improvements between 2000 and 2013, geographies where gaps remained, and approaches for optimizing geographical accessibility to PHC services at the community level.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Wilfred Ouma Otambo, Kevin O. Ochwedo, Collince J. Omondi, Ming-Chieh Lee, Chloe Wang, Harrysone Atieli, Andew K. Githeko, Guofa Zhou, James Kazura, John Githure, Guiyun Yan
Summary: This study evaluated the effectiveness of community health volunteers in actively detecting and managing malaria in western Kenya. The results showed that the years of experience, education level, and age of the volunteers significantly influenced their service quality. Understanding the qualifications of volunteers can help guide the design of effective interventions and improve the quality of healthcare services in communities.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Raju Ranjha, Chander Prakash Yadav, Mehul Kumar Chourasia, Chinmay Kumar Dash, Jitendra Kumar
Summary: This study aimed to assess the knowledge gaps and factors affecting the knowledge and practices of community health workers in India regarding malaria. The results showed that only 26% of the health workers had a good knowledge attitude and practices score for malaria. The study identified malaria endemicity and education as significant factors influencing the knowledge and practices of the health workers.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Kim Bush, Carlea Patrick, Kimberly Elliott, Michael Morris, Yordanos Tiruneh, Paul McGaha
Summary: Rural communities face poor health outcomes due to the lack of resources and poor health literacy skills. Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a significant role in improving hypertension management and bridging gaps between service providers and community members. The CHW-led intervention in the Self-Management Blood Pressure program resulted in improved overall health and quality of life for participants.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Rila Ratovoson, Andres Garchitorena, Daouda Kassie, Jemima A. Ravelonarivo, Voahangy Andrianaranjaka, Seheno Razanatsiorimalala, Avotra Razafimandimby, Fanjasoa Rakotomanana, Laurie Ohlstein, Reziky Mangahasimbola, Sandro A. N. Randrianirisoa, Jocelyn Razafindrakoto, Catherine M. Dentinger, John Williamson, Laurent Kapesa, Patrice Piola, Milijaona Randrianarivelojosia, Julie Thwing, Laura C. Steinhardt, Laurence Baril
Summary: This study trial suggests that proactive community case management approaches can help reduce malaria burden in rural areas of low- and middle-income countries, particularly in younger age groups.
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Kanneganti Abhiram, Benjamin Y. Q. Tan, Melanie Tan, Lifeng Tan, Ching-Hui Sia, Ying Xian Chua, Lucas J. H. Lim, Cavert Maleena Suppiah, Kang Sim, Yiong Huak Chan, Shirley B. S. Ooi
Summary: Despite high vaccination rates in Singapore, a surge in COVID-19 cases in October 2021 has put strain on the healthcare system. This study aimed to assess and compare the mental well-being of healthcare workers (HCWs) in 2021 with a previous cohort in 2020. The survey findings showed that HCWs in 2021 had higher levels of burnout, anxiety, and depression compared to 2020. Factors such as being an overseas HCW, South Asian ethnicity, and longer work hours were associated with poorer mental health outcomes.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
(2022)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Atsuyoshi Ishizumi, Roberta Sutton, Anthony Mansaray, Lauren Parmley, Oliver Eleeza, Shibani Kulkarni, Tom Sesay, Laura Conklin, Aaron S. Wallace, Adewale Akinjeji, Mame Toure, Maria Lahuerta, Mohamed F. Jalloh
Summary: The qualitative content analysis identified four main themes: CHWs' work motivation, workload burden, health system and community level barriers, and strategies adopted by CHWs. The findings suggest that focused support is needed for CHWs, coupled with systems-level efforts to address structural barriers and optimize their work contributions.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Ateeb Ahmad Parray, Sambit Dash, Md Imtiaz Khalil Ullah, Zuhrat Mahfuza Inam, Sophia Kaufman
Summary: Afghanistan ranks 171st in the Gender Inequality Index of 2011 with only 16% of women in the labor force. The country has deployed community health workers (CHWs) to provide basic healthcare in remote areas, where they face threatening situations. These female CHWs should be recognized for their work and given opportunities to advance in their careers.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Joanna Raven, Haja Wurie, Amuda Baba, Abdulai Jawo Bah, Laura Dean, Kate Hawkins, Ayesha Idriss, Karsor Kollie, Gartee E. Nallo, Rosie Steege, Sally Theobald
Summary: Gender norms, literacy levels, and patriarchal expectations influenced the recruitment of women as CHWs in Sierra Leone and Liberia, leading to fewer women taking up the role than anticipated. However, in the DRC, there were more women than men working as CHWs. Gender roles and expectations also impacted retention, progression, safety, and support for CHWs across all contexts. Despite facing challenges, women CHWs demonstrated agency in challenging gender norms within their work and interactions. Health systems need to address gender inequities and norms to support and empower CHWs effectively.
Review
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Koya C. Allen, Kate Whitfield, Regina Rabinovich, Salim Sadruddin
Summary: Improving health outcomes in countries with high under-5 child mortality rates necessitates the innovative approach of integrated community case management (iCCM) to enhance coverage for hard-to-reach populations. Despite documented impact, challenges persist in iCCM implementation and sustainability. Analysis using a Governance Analytical Framework reveals key challenges such as country leadership, dependence on external funding, and disease-specific obstacles to funding and coordination. Countries that tailor programs to fit their governance processes and capacities are better equipped to achieve sustainability and impact in iCCM.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Nachiket Mor, Bindu Ananth, Viraj Ambalam, Aquinas Edassery, Ajay Meher, Pearl Tiwari, Vinayak Sonawane, Anagha Mahajani, Krisha Mathur, Amishi Parekh, Raghu Dharmaraju
Summary: Comprehensive primary care is crucial for a good healthcare system. A new approach is needed for developing countries as the traditional British GP model is not feasible. The evolution of the community health worker model may offer a solution.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Aliya Karim, Don de Savigny, Phyllis Awor, Daniel Cobos Munoz, Daniel Maeusezahl, Antoinette Kitoto Tshefu, Jean Serge Ngaima, Ugo Enebeli, Chinwoke Isiguzo, Humphreys Nsona, Ikechi Ogbonnaya, Pascal Ngoy, Ayo Alegbeleye
Summary: The study proposes a Global South-driven, systems-based framework that aims to capture the different elements of iCCM program implementation. The resulting framework consists of 10 thematic domains comprising 106 categories. It also includes critical questions that can be used by program designers, implementers, and evaluators to facilitate meaningful discussions and explore the potential implications of implementation in decentralized settings. The framework aims to complement existing intervention benchmarks and indicators by expanding the scope and depth of the thematic components.
Article
Immunology
Johannes Mischlinger, Veronika Dudek, Michael Ramharter
Summary: This study examined the positive predictive values and negative predictive values of RDTs in malaria-endemic African regions and found significant performance variations among countries, suggesting potential limitations of RDT-based test-and-treat algorithms in low PPV settings.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Review
Virology
George M. Bwire, Belinda J. Njiro, Dorkasi L. Mwakawanga, Deodatus Sabas, Bruno F. Sunguya
Summary: The current evidence suggests low likelihood of vertical transmission of COVID-19, with antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 detected among vertically exposed but negative infants. Further studies on transplacental transmission and natural passive immunity in infants born to mothers with COVID-19 are needed.
JOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY
(2021)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Naomi Saronga, Tracy L. Burrows, Clare E. Collins, Idda H. Mosha, Bruno F. Sunguya, Megan E. Rollo
Summary: The study found that nurses were the main source of nutrition information for pregnant women attending antenatal clinics, followed by medical doctors. However, participants' recall of nutrition information in each category was inconsistent. The majority of pregnant women preferred individual face-to-face sessions with health practitioners as the mode for receiving nutrition information.
JOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION AND DIETETICS
(2022)
Article
Education & Educational Research
Emmanuel Balandya, Bruno Sunguya, Daniel W. Gunda, Benson Kidenya, Tumaini Nyamhanga, Irene K. Minja, Michael Mahande, Blandina T. Mmbaga, Stephen E. Mshana, Kien Mteta, John Bartlett, Eligius Lyamuya
Summary: The sustainability of research culture in Sub-Saharan Africa is threatened by the lack of young researchers with the necessary skills and interest. This study shows that an intensive mentorship program combining hierarchical and peer-to-peer strategies is important for young researchers in resource-limited settings.
BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Wenjun Zhu, Si Zhu, Bruno F. Sunguya, Jiayan Huang
Summary: The study revealed that while the overall child stunting prevalence is declining in Tanzania, the urban-rural disparity is widening due to the slower decline in rural areas. The disparity is mainly caused by differences in individual and household factors between rural and urban areas.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Ethics
Godwin Pancras, Bruno F. Sunguya, Nathanael Sirili, Emmanuel Balandya, Eligius Lyamuya, Blandina T. Mmbaga
Summary: The study empirically indicates the need for functioning CABs at every stage of implementation of community-based HIV clinical trials. The roles of CABs are intertwined with serving research goals and protecting the interests of the community and trial participants.
BMC MEDICAL ETHICS
(2022)
Article
Education & Educational Research
Emmanuel Balandya, Gimbo Hyuha, Matilda Mtaya, Joseph Otieno, Bruno Sunguya, Gasto Frumence, Projestine Muganyizi, Eligius Lyamuya, David Urassa, Appolinary Kamuhabwa, Andrea Pembe
Summary: This study retrospectively analyzed the trends in postgraduate training at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences in Tanzania over five years, highlighting the successes, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. The study found significant advances in the number of programs, enrollment, and graduates, while maintaining a balance in terms of gender and internationalization.
BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Maryam A. Amour, Grace A. Shayo, Mecky M. Matee, Lameck Machumi, Angelica Rugarabamu, Eric A. Aris, Bruno F. Sunguya, Ferdinand M. Mugusi
Summary: Global AIDS-related deaths have declined slower among adolescents, and the mortality rate for persons on antiretroviral therapy in Tanzania is higher in adolescents than young adults. Predictors of mortality for adolescents include male sex, lower CD4 count, and attending private health facilities, while predictors for young adults include lower CD4 count, being underweight, and using nevirapine-based therapy.
JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL AIDS SOCIETY
(2022)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Naomi Saronga, Idda H. Mosha, Samantha J. Stewart, Saidah Bakar, Bruno F. Sunguya, Tracy L. Burrows, Germana H. Leyna, Marc T. P. Adam, Clare E. Collins, Megan E. Rollo
Summary: Due to advancements in technology, image-based food record methods have the potential to improve dietary intake assessment by nutritionists in urban areas. A study conducted in Tanzania found that a new voice and image-based dietary assessment system (VISIDA) was feasible and easy to use. Participants showed positive attitudes towards the system and provided suggestions for further improvement.
Article
Microbiology
Delfina R. Msanga, Vitus Silago, Tulla Massoza, Benson R. Kidenya, Emmanuel Balandya, Mariam M. Mirambo, Bruno Sunguya, Blandina Theophil Mmbaga, Eligius Lyamuya, John Bartlet, Stephen E. Mshana
Summary: This study aimed to determine the resistance profile and factors associated with MDR pathogen colonization among HIV-and HIV+ children below five years of age in Mwanza, Tanzania. The results showed that HIV+ children were more likely to carry drug-resistant isolates compared to HIV- children. Additionally, a history of recent antibiotic use and a recent hospitalization of a relative living in the same household were independently associated with the colonization of drug-resistant bacteria.
Article
Education, Scientific Disciplines
Emmanuel Balandya, Bruno Sunguya, Benson Kidenya, Tumaini Nyamhanga, Irene K. Minja, Michael Mahande, Blandina T. Mmbaga, Stephen E. Mshana, Kien Mteta, John Bartlett, Eligius Lyamuya
Summary: This paper describes an inclusive mentorship model employed in a resource-limited setting in sub-Saharan Africa. The model involves collaboration between multiple universities and disciplines, and has shown successful outcomes in providing research training and mentorship to young investigators.
ADVANCES IN MEDICAL EDUCATION AND PRACTICE
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Bruno F. Sunguya, Yue Ge, Linda B. Mlunde, Rose Mpembeni, Germana H. Leyna, Krishna C. Poudel, Niyati Parekh, Jiayan Huang
Summary: This study found high prevalence of anemia among women of reproductive age in Tanzania, particularly those above 35 years old. The prevalence of anemia decreased from 2005 to 2015, but the decline was not significant and unevenly distributed across regions.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Nchang'wa Nhumba, Bruno Sunguya
Summary: Cervical cancer is a major health issue in Tanzania, and the HPV vaccine is an effective intervention. However, the uptake of the second dose of the vaccine is low, with factors such as age, attitude, and awareness influencing the uptake.
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Tasiana Njau, Fileuka Ngakongwa, Bruno Sunguya, Sylvia Kaaya, Abebaw Fekadu
Summary: This study developed a culturally appropriate brief psychological intervention that utilizes a task-shifting approach to address depression and medication adherence for adolescents living with HIV in Tanzania.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Maryam Amour, Raphael Z. Sangeda, Benson Kidenya, Emmanuel Balandya, Blandina T. Mmbaga, Lameck Machumi, Angelica Rugarabamu, Eric Aris, Belinda J. Njiro, Harrieth P. Ndumwa, Eligius Lyamuya, Bruno F. Sunguya
Summary: This study aimed to investigate adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and virological suppression among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Tanzania. The results showed that adherence to ART was suboptimal, and factors such as sex, year of enrollment, ART drug combination used, and immunological status at ART initiation were important predictors of adherence and virological suppression.
TROPICAL MEDICINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE
(2022)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Amani Idris Kikula, Andrea Barnabas Pembe, Bruno Sunguya
Summary: In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, about 1 in 5 women attending antenatal clinic at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital had short inter-pregnancy interval. Factors associated with short IPI included young age (<25 years), non-use of contraceptives, breastfeeding for less than 6 months, and antecedent child death. Addressing these factors could help improve maternal health indicators in similar contexts.
PAN AFRICAN MEDICAL JOURNAL
(2021)
