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COVID-19 vaccine wastage in private and public healthcare facilities in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-09-19 Viloshini Krishna Manickum, Lehlohonolo John Mathibe
Background In KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, COVID-19 vaccinations commenced in May 2021. This study investigated the extent and reasons for COVID-19 vaccine (C19V) wastage in KZN and strategies undertaken to mitigate loss. Methods This two-phase multicenter study was conducted at private and public healthcare facilities from May 2021 to July 2022. Results KZN reported 2% Pfizer and 1% Janssen
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Development and validation of supervised machine learning multivariable prediction models for the diagnosis of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia using nasopharyngeal swab PCR in adults in a low-HIV prevalence setting Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-08-29 Rusheng Chew, Marion L Woods, David L Paterson
Background The global burden of the opportunistic fungal disease Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) remains substantial. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) has high specificity and may be a viable alternative to the gold standard diagnostic of PCR on invasively collected lower respiratory tract specimens, but has low sensitivity. Sensitivity may be improved by incorporating
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Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of Cy-Tb for LTBI in India: a comprehensive economic modelling analysis Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-08-02 Malaisamy Muniyandi, Karikalan Nagarajan, Kavi Mathiyazhagan, Kirti Tyagi, Kavitha Rajsekar, Chandrasekaran Padmapriyadarsini
Background Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) remains a significant challenge, as there is no gold standard diagnostic test. Current methods used for identifying LTBI are the interferon-γ release assay (IGRA), which is based on a blood test, and the tuberculin skin test (TST), which has low sensitivity. Both these tests are inadequate, primarily because they have limitations with the low bacterial
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Accelerating onchocerciasis elimination in humanitarian settings: lessons from South Sudan Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-07-30 J N Siewe Fodjo, S R Jada, J Rovarini, Y Y Bol, J Y Carter, A Hadermann, T Lakwo, R Colebunders
There is persistent meso- and hyperendemicity of onchocerciasis (river blindness) in South Sudan, a country that has endured armed conflict for many years. In 2018, Amref Health Africa, in collaboration with local communities, the South Sudan Ministry of Health and other stakeholders, initiated some interventions, among which was Innovative Approaches to Reduce the Burden of Disease Caused by Onchocerciasis
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Prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales in edible ice in Thailand. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-07-29 Premjit Amornchai,Vanaporn Wuthiekanun,Sayan Langla,Gumphol Wongsuvan,Panatda Aramrueang,Nicholas P J Day,Direk Limmathurotsakul
BACKGROUND The presence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria in edible ice in tropical countries is largely unknown. METHODS We evaluate the presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales in 100 edible ice samples from drink carts in 20 markets in four provinces (five markets/province) in Thailand. Ten samples of commercially sold edible ice in sealed packages were
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Addressing the risk factors for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in the Philippines. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-07-23 Dalmacito A Cordero
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Laboratory capacity expansion: lessons from establishing molecular testing in regional referral laboratories in Ethiopia. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-07-04 Leulseged Chekol,Ebba Waktola,Saira Nawaz,Lehageru Tadesse,Samuel Muluye,Zelalem Bonger,Addisu Bogale,Frehywot Eshetu,Desalegne Degefaw,Adamu Tayachew,Hulemenaw Delelegn,Sharon Daves,Eyasu Seyoum,Kyle Moon,Daniel Melese,Joan-Miquel Balada,Shu-Hua Wang,Desmond Williams,Wondwossen Gebreyes,Zelalem Mekuria
Respiratory viruses contribute to high morbidity and mortality in Africa. In 2020, the Ohio State University's Global One Health Initiative, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Public Health Institute and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, took action to strengthen Ethiopia's existing respiratory virus surveillance system through decentralization of laboratory testing and scale-up of
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The individual- and community-level women's empowerment and utilization of maternity care services in Afghanistan: a multilevel cross-validation study. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-07-02 Omid Dadras
BACKGROUND This study aimed to explore the relationship between women's empowerment and utilization of maternity care for married Afghan women aged 15-49 y in Afghanistan, assessing the convergence validity of the Survey-based Women's Empowerment Index in Afghanistan (SWEI-A). METHODS The study used data from the 2015 Afghanistan Demographic Health Survey to examine the association of different domains
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Attitudes towards wife-beating justification and its association with female genital mutilation - analysis of ever-married Somali women in the 2020 Somali Health and Demographic Survey. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-06-17 Abdirahman Saeed Mohamed,Espen Bjertness,Aung Soe Htet,Win Thuzar Aye,Ahmed Ali Madar
BACKGROUND In Somalia, despite its prohibition, female circumcision persists alongside significant intimate partner violence. This study examines the prevalence of wife-beating justification among Somali women and its link to the perception that female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is a religious obligation. METHODS We studied 7726 married Somali women 15-49 y of age from the 2020 Somali Health
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Knowledge and utilization of iodized salt among expectant mothers in Harar City's public health facilities: a multicenter study in Eastern Ethiopia. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-06-17 Hanan Mohammed,Dawit Abebe,Fisseha Yetwale,Worku Mekuannint,Sinetibeb Mesfin
BACKGROUND Insufficient iodine intake during pregnancy can result in abortion, stillbirths, neonatal mortality, cretinism and permanent cognitive impairment. Even although iodized salt is widely accessible in Ethiopia, pregnant women still experience persistent problems related to iodine deficiency disorders. METHODS A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 573 pregnant
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Disclosure of diagnosis by parents and caregivers to children infected with HIV in Hawassa, southern Ethiopia: a multicentre, cross-sectional study Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-06-14 Kejela Tari, Merga Dheresa, Lemesa Abdisa, Dawit Abebe, Desalegn Admassu, Sinetibeb Mesfin
Background In recent years, the life expectancy of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected children has increased with the availability of highly active antiretroviral therapy (ART). Regardless of the clinical recommendations encouraging HIV status disclosure, the practice of caregiver disclosure is frequently challenging due to many constraints associated with caregivers and healthcare personnel
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Risk factors associated with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in areas with a moderate tuberculosis burden Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-06-14 Noormohamad Mansoori, Bagher Pahlavanzadeh, Masoumeh Atarjalali
Background The emergence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) or rifampicin-resistant (RR) TB poses a significant challenge for TB control initiatives on a global scale. This study’s aim was to estimate the incidence of MDR-/RR-TB and identify the risk factors associated with their incidence in four provinces in northern Iran. Methods Drug susceptibility testing was conducted using the proportion
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Association between women's empowerment and fertility preferences in Ghana. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-09-05 Louis Kobina Dadzie,Hilda Yengnone,James Boadu Frimpong,Ebenezer Agbaglo,Abdul-Aziz Seidu,Bright Opoku Ahinkorah
As Ghana has embraced the concept of women's empowerment as a vital tool for sustainable development, it has become crucial to evaluate the role that women's empowerment plays in the fertility preferences of married and cohabiting women in the country. The study's objective was to examine the association between women's empowerment, the ideal number of children and women's ability to have their desired
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Burden of overweight and obesity among adolescents in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-06-08 Addis Eyeberu,Yadeta Dessie,Nega Assefa
BACKGROUND Overweight and obesity continue to escalate, despite the regulations and interventions that have been put in place. To support further policy directions, it is necessary to have pooled data that illustrate the burden of overweight and obesity among adolescents nowadays. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the burden of overweight and obesity among Ethiopian
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Understanding male circumcision: insights from a peri-urban community in Maputo City, Mozambique. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-06-03 Joelma Baduro,K Carter Mccabe,Nílzio Cavele,Américo José,Anchelda Mulimela,Mehol Jamnadas,Cremildo Manhiça,Celso Monjane,Sheila Nhachungue,Tom Decroo,Ivalda Macicame
BACKGROUND Circumcision is a protective measure against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), reducing the risk of HIV infection. This study reported coverage of male circumcision and assessed the factors associated with male uncircumcision in a peri-urban area in Maputo City, Mozambique. METHODS This cross-sectional study of the Health Demographic Surveillance System in the Polana Caniço neighborhood
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Active surveillance of immunization adverse effects: a multicentre, open-label, three-arm randomized uncontrolled trial in Ethiopia. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-06-03 Dawit Getachew Assefa,Tizalegn Tesefaye,Etaferaw Bekele,Genet Geberemickeal,Andualem Mebratu,Aschalew Gossaye Ejigu,Tariku Nigatu,Eden Dagnachew Zeleke
BACKGROUND Participant-centred active adverse event following immunization (AEFI) surveillance can offer real-time vaccine safety data and help in signal detection. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of participant-centred active adverse events (AEs) surveillance following measles immunization in Gedeo Zone health facilities in Ethiopia. METHODS An open-label, multicentred, three-arm randomized
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Tropical Data: supporting health ministries worldwide to conduct high-quality trachoma surveys. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-05-31 E M Harding-Esch,A Bakhtiari,S Boyd,C Burgert-Brucker,R Butcher,M Dejene,A Harte,P J Hooper,C Jimenez,E M Taylor,T Millar,C Mpyet,J M Ngondi,L A Rotondo,A W Solomon
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Progress towards the elimination of trachoma in Nigeria Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-05-31 Caleb D Mpyet, Nicholas Olobio, Sunday Isiyaku, Teyil Wamyil-Mshelia, Grace Ajege, Christopher Ogoshi, Francisca Olamiju, Ijeoma Achu, Mohammed Dantani Adamu, Nasiru Muhammad, Aliyu Mohammed Jabo, Philomena Orji, Adamani William, Alice Venyir Ramyil, Ana Bakhtiari, Sarah Boyd, Michaela Kelly, Cristina Jimenez, Amir Bedri Kello, Anthony W Solomon, Emma M Harding-Esch, Paul Courtright
Trachoma is targeted for elimination as a public health problem worldwide by 2030. In Nigeria, elimination activities are implemented at the local government area (LGA) level. They started in 2002 by conducting baseline population-based prevalence surveys (PBPSs), which continued in a systematic manner with engagement from the Global Trachoma Mapping Project in 2013, and subsequently Tropical Data
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Season, household registry and isolated birth defects: a population-based case-control study in Danyang, China. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-09-05 Shuhan Miao,Liqun Liu,Yanlin Tang,Hongyan Ge
BACKGROUND A birth population-based study was conducted in Danyang, Jiangsu Province, to evaluate major birth defects in emerging regions in China with similar maternal and neonatal care conditions. METHODS We conducted a population-based study in a cohort of infants born in Danyang from 2014 to 2021, including 55 709 perinatal infants. Four categories of isolated birth defects were defined as cases:
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Human papillomavirus vaccine coverage among immigrant adolescents in Alberta: a population-based cohort study Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-05-24 Crystal Du, Don Voaklander, Salima Meherali, Yuba Raj Paudel, Shannon E MacDonald
Background Little is known about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among immigrant children in Canada. We conducted a study in Alberta, Canada to assess HPV vaccine coverage among school-aged immigrant children compared with non-immigrant children. Methods This cohort study analysed population-based linked administrative health data to measure HPV vaccine coverage for 346 749 school-aged children
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Education and non-communicable diseases in India: an exploration of gendered heterogeneous relationships Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-05-21 Jhumki Kundu, Srinivas Goli, K S James
Background While the association between education and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is well established, it remains unclear whether this association varies by gender. The aim of this study was to examine two critical research questions: whether the association of education and NCDs is conditioned by gender and, if so, what are the factors contributing to this? Methods Data from the Longitudinal
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Obesity, beverage consumption and sleep patterns in rural African women in relation to advertising of these beverages. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-05-11 Merling Phaswana,Zandile June-Rose Mchiza,Sunday Olawale Onagbiye,Philippe Jean-Luc Gradidge
BACKGROUND The burden of obesity-related, non-communicable diseases in South Africa is persistent, with poor and black South African women particularly vulnerable. The purpose of the present study was to determine relationships between obesity, physical activity, sleep patterns and beverage consumption among black South African women in a rural village in the Limpopo province. METHODS A cross-sectional
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Risk factors and circulation pattern of respiratory syncytial virus in children under 2 years in Maputo, Mozambique Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-05-08 Mirela Pale, Almiro Tivane, Tinne Gils, Adilson Bauhofer, Neuza Nguenha, Loira Machalele, Félix Gundane, Aunésia Marrurele, Judite Salência, Délcio Muteto, Josina Chalufo-Chilundo, Marilda Siqueira, Tufária Mussá
Background Evidence on risk factors for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in low-resource settings is limited. In Mozambican children <2 y of age with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI), we explored risk factors for RSV, described its seasonal variation and assessed associations between RSV and a life-threatening condition. Methods We retrospectively included participants presenting in 2017–2018
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Is the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator a decoupling mechanism? Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-05-07 Abiodun E Awosusi
This article explores how the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator can support the sustainable production of vaccines in Africa. It highlights the value of the accelerator in relation to the Regional Vaccine Manufacturing Collaborative. The author proposes that this novel financing instrument should be well-designed and implemented in line with the targets of the Partnerships for African Vaccine
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Corrigendum to: Prevalence and determinants of cardiovascular risk factors in Lesotho: a population-based survey. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-05-01
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Key lessons from Liberia for successful partnerships toward universal health coverage in low-resource settings. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-04-12 Tiawanlyn G Godwin-Akpan,Rosalind McCollum,Jerry Kollie,Hannah Berrian,Wede Seekey-Tate,John S Smith,Fasseneh Zeela Zaizay,Shahreen Chowdhury,Karsor K Kollie,Emerson J Rogers,Colleen B M C Parker,Georgina V K Zawolo,Anna Wickenden,Laura Dean,Sally Theobald
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Sarcoidosis in first- and second-generation immigrants: a cohort study of all adults 18 years of age and older in Sweden. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-04-12 Per Wändell,Xinjun Li,Axel C Carlsson,Jan Sundquist,Kristina Sundquist
BACKGROUND There is a lack of studies on sarcoidosis among immigrants, which is of interest as there may be genetic and environmental characteristics affecting immigrants from certain countries. We aimed to study hazard ratios (HRs) of sarcoidosis in first- and second-generation immigrants, comparing them with native Swedes in the total adult Swedish population. METHODS We conducted a nationwide study
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An examination of the predictors of change in BMI among 38 026 school students in Makkah, Saudi Arabia Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-04-05 Mohammed Banany, Klaus Gebel, David Sibbritt
Background The prevalence of childhood obesity has substantially increased in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, including Saudi Arabia. The Rashaka initiative is a Saudi national school-based multicomponent intervention that was introduced in the school year 2016–2017 to address childhood overweight and obesity. This study aims to examine the effect of the Rashaka initiative on students’ body
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Health literacy and household financial loss on malaria treatment for children under five in Ghana: a patients’ perspective Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-04-02 Millicent Ofori Boateng, Derek Asuman, Nuworza Kugbey, Padmore Adusei Amoah, Peter Agyei-Baffour, Ulrika Enemark
Background Inadequate health literacy increases medical costs and leads to poor health outcomes. However, there is a paucity of empirical evidence of such associations in sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigates how the household cost of malaria in children under five in Ghana varies based on different levels of health literacy. Methods A cross-sectional survey involving 1270 caregivers of children
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Uptake and challenges with daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis among men who have sex with men and transgender women, suburban Yangon, Myanmar Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-29 Ni Ni Tun, Frank Smithuis, Nyan Lynn Tun, Myo Min Min Hteik, Myat Ko Ko, Lutgarde Lynen, Tom Decroo, Eric Florence, Tinne Gils
Background Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention in risk groups. We assessed PrEP uptake and 12-month retention among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in Myanmar during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and a political crisis. Methods Using prospectively collected data, we assessed the proportion of persons eligible
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People, power and participation: strategic directions for integrated person-centred care for NTDs and mental health. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Laura Dean,Julian Eaton
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Let them talk and we listen: what are diseases of neglected people? Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Mathias Duck
This article is a reflection from a person with lived experience of leprosy, who has been working as a global advocate and champion for the rights of persons affected by neglected tropical diseases for the last decade. Synthesising learning from the collection of pieces included within this special supplement that are written from the perspective of people affected by neglected tropical diseases, I
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Lessons from integrating mental health as part of lymphatic filariasis morbidity management and disability prevention services in Jigawa State, Nigeria Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Juliana A Amanyi-Enegela, Jacqueline A Badaki, Maureen Pali, Faizah Okunade, Joseph Kumbur, Samuel Omoi, Rinpan Ishaya, Christopher Ogoshi, Innocent Emereuwa, Girija Sankar, Babar Qureshi
Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected tropical disease affecting >120 million people worldwide. LF has debilitating effects on humans and leads to morbidity and sometimes irreversible disability. A significant proportion of persons affected by LF morbidity also suffer from ill health, such as depression, anxiety, pain, stigma and social isolation due to disfigurement, as well as loss of mobility
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A pilot study to address the mental health of persons living with lymphatic filariasis in Léogâne, Haiti: Implementing a chronic disease self-management program using a stepped-wedge cluster design Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Shanze Sadiq, Karen E S Hamre, Samhita Kumar, Sarah Bazur-Leidy, Luccène Désir, M Martha Désir, Murielle C Gilbert, V Madsen Beau de Rochars, Marc-Aurèle Telfort, Gregory S Noland, Eve Byrd
Background Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) inflict significant comorbid disability on the most vulnerable communities; yet interventions targeting the mental health of affected communities are lacking. A pilot study to assess the effectiveness of a chronic disease self-management program (CDSMP) was introduced to lymphatic filariasis peer support groups in Léogâne, Haiti. Methods Using a closed-cohort
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Antibiotic prescription sources and use among under-5 children with fever/cough in sub-Saharan Africa Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Getayeneh A Tesema, Godness K Biney, Vicky Q Wang, Edward K Ameyaw, Sanni Yaya
Background Childhood febrile illness is among the leading causes of hospital admission for children <5 y of age in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Antibiotics have played a pivotal role in enhancing health outcomes, especially for children <5 y of age. Antibiotics prescription pattern evidence exists for SSA, however, prescription sources (either from qualified or unqualified sources) and use among children
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Illness experiences and mental health challenges associated with female genital schistosomiasis in Cameroon: a gender analysis Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Makia Christine Masong, Marie-Therese Mengue, Nstinda Tchoffo Marlene, Laura Dean, Rachael Thomson, Russell Stothard, Sally Theobald
Background This paper highlights the role of cultural and structural gaps that shape illness experiences of women with manifestations of female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) and their impacts upon mental well-being. Methods Using ethnography, case study narrative accounts of women manifesting symptoms of FGS, as well as interviews with health workers within FGS-endemic rural fishing communities in
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Leprosy in Colombia: A look from life experience Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Julián Andrés Uribe Mora, Patricia Devia Angarita
Leprosy continues to be stigmatized, causing harm to fundamental rights, pain and hopelessness in those who have suffered from it and their families. From its relationship with public and mental health, effective strategies must be implemented to reduce stigma and unlearn myths and wrong perceptions, support families, and improve quality of life through early care and detection. This article shows
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Participatory development of a community mental wellbeing support package for people affected by skin neglected tropical diseases in the Kasai province, Democratic Republic of Congo Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Motto Nganda, Pierre Luhaka, Junior Kukola, Yan Ding, Christian Bulambo, Jacob Kadima, Joy Kim, Sara Marshall, Raphael Mulamba, Stephanie Ngenyibungi, Florent Ngondu, Maaike Seekles, Louis Sabuni, Laura Dean
Background Skin neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) produce signs and symptoms that are often physically challenging, stigmatizing and have a negative impact on the mental wellbeing of people affected. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), little is known about the mental wellbeing experiences of people affected by skin NTDs and support is lacking. We collaborated with ongoing NTD programs, the
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Experiences of social stigma of people living with Hansen's disease in Brazil: silencing, secrets and exclusion Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Gabriella Carrijo Souza, Poliana Silva de Oliveira, Priscila Norié de Araujo, Felipe Lima dos Santos, Janaina Pereira da Silva, Karen da Silva Santos, Cinira Magali Fortuna
Background Hansen's disease is a chronic, infectious and transmissible disease that is considered a public health problem in Brazil. Hansen's disease is marked by stigma and prejudice, because it carries with it a strong negative social image, reinforced by policies of social isolation in the community. Methods A qualitative study was conducted in Ribeirão Preto, an inland city of the state of São
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Windows of opportunity in integrating mental health into care of neglected tropical diseases: the Nigeria experience Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Tunde M Ojo, Oluwole G Afolayan, Morenike O Alex-Okoh
In this invited commentary, the Mental Health and the Neglected Tropical Diseases(NTDs) Program leads in the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare share the opportunities that have arisen from recent global progress in normative guidance and political interest in the intersection of mental health and NTDs. They describe the new collaboration that has taken place between their programs
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Prevalence, assessment and correlates of mental health problems in neglected tropical diseases: a systematic review Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Samuel Adjorlolo, Emma Efua Adimado, Mawuko Setordzi, Vincent Valentine Akorli
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of disease conditions that affect the world's poorest people in low- and middle-income countries. NTDs are associated with negative behavioural experiences, including discrimination, rejection and stigmatization, that predisposes those affected to mental health problems. Consequently, researchers have shown profound interest in elucidating the mental health
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An evaluation of mental health integration in the neglected tropical diseases program in Zamfara, North-west Nigeria Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-28 Sunday Udo, Pius Sunday Ogbu, Paul A Tsaku, Aliyu Tukur, Andrew NewMarch
Background Mental health and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are critical in healthcare systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Several policies are planned or designed by health stakeholders to address the mental health needs of people affected by NTDs. Still, the impact of such policies seems to be of no consequence. Methods The GAD-7 and PHQ-9 tools were used to determine the
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Impact of age and gender differences in the prevalence and patterns of multimorbidity in the Thai Cohort Study Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-23 Xiyu Feng, Haribondhu Sarma, Sam-ang Seubsman, Adrian Sleigh, Matthew Kelly
Background The study aims to identify the common patterns of multimorbidity and their distribution by age and gender. Method This cross-sectional study collected self-reported data from 42 785 Thai Cohort Study members through mailed questionnaires. Employing prevalence-based analysis, it identified common multimorbidity (coexistence of two or more chronic conditions) patterns, analysing the three
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Metabolic syndrome burden, determinants and treatment status in an urban slum resettlement colony in Delhi, India. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-22 Shivani Rao,Saurav Basu,Kajal Nandi,M M Singh,Heena Lalwani,Vansh Maheshwari,Amod Borle,Nandini Sharma
BACKGROUND Metabolic syndrome (MetS) in low-resource settings contributes to accentuated risk of cardiovascular disease, including stroke. The study objective was to estimate the prevalence, determinants and treatment status of MetS in an urban slum resettlement population in Delhi, India. METHODS This study was conducted from February to May 2023. Multiphase sampling was conducted with 1910 individuals
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Stigma associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis in rural Sri Lanka: development of a conceptual framework Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-15 Hasara Nuwangi, Lisa Dikomitis, Kosala G Weerakoon, Chandani Liyanage, Thilini C Agampodi, Suneth B Agampodi
Background There is limited knowledge about the stigma associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Sri Lanka. To ensure that leishmaniasis researchers focus on CL-associated stigma, we provide an evidence-based framework that can be used in future research. Methods We conducted a systematic review on CL-associated stigma using international evidence and carried out a multimethod qualitative study
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Instituting coronavirus disease 2019 testing: opportunities and challenges of molecular laboratory diagnosis in a Southern Nigerian teaching hospital. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-03-13 Iriagbonse I Osaigbovo,Isaac O Igbarumah,Darlington E Obaseki
The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic emphasised the importance of laboratory preparedness, including molecular diagnostic capacity, in the control of infectious disease outbreaks. This article reflects on diagnostic capacity-building opportunities presented by the pandemic, the challenges experienced along the way and the lessons learned from the perspective of a university teaching hospital in Southern
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Online health information–seeking behaviours for low back pain in the United Kingdom: analysis of data from Google trends and the Global Burden of Disease Study, 2004–2019 Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-23 Harpal Patel, Thomas A Shepherd
Background Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of global disability. Timely health-seeking is crucial for early diagnosis and management of pathologies. Despite increases in internet usage, there is sparse literature regarding online health information–seeking behaviours (OHISBs) for LBP and how they correlate with the LBP disease burden in the UK. Methods To examine OHISB trends, we conducted Prais–Winsten
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Essential dataset features in a successful obesity registry: a systematic review Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-17 Mina Nosrati, Najmeh Seifi, Nafiseh Hosseini, Gordon A Ferns, Khalil Kimiafar, Majid Ghayour-Mobarhan
Background The prevalence of obesity and the diversity of available treatments makes the development of a national obesity registry desirable. To do this, it is essential to design a minimal dataset to meet the needs of a registry. This review aims to identify the essential elements of a successful obesity registry. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review adhering to the Preferred Reporting
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Covid-19 vaccination coverage and associated factors among older hypertensive patients in Hangzhou, China. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-15 Shijun Liu,Caixia Jiang,Yan Liu,Xin Qiu,Jun Luo,Jing Wang,Yuyang Xu
BACKGROUND Vaccination could provide effective protection against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aims to describe the COVID-19 vaccination coverage and influential factors in Chinese older hypertensive patients. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, participants were randomly selected from the electronic health records system during the pandemic era in Hangzhou, China. Logistic regression
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Individual- and community-level factors associated with the presence of adequate iodized salt in households in Bangladesh: a multilevel modelling approach. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-12 Iqramul Haq,Md Ismail Hossain,Md Rukonozzaman Rukon,Md Jakaria Habib,Tanha Akther Tithy,Md Amit Hasan,Salma Akter,Md Rayhan Ali Rejvi,M Sheikh Giash Uddin,Md Mizanur Rahman Sarker,Fasil Wagnew,Ashis Talukder
BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to estimate the factors at both the individual and community levels related to the adequacy of iodized salt in households in Bangladesh. METHODS For this study we utilized the 2019 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey data. A total of 61 242 households were chosen as samples from Bangladesh. In our study of socio-economic disparities, we applied a concentration indexing
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Level of exposure to aflatoxins during pregnancy and its association with adverse birth outcomes in Africa: a meta-analysis. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-10 Jemal Y Hassen,Adera Debella,Addis Eyeberu,Ibsa Mussa
BACKGROUND Aflatoxins are various poisonous carcinogens and mutagens produced by Aspergillus species. Exposure to aflatoxins during pregnancy results in adverse birth outcomes. This meta-analysis was carried out to determine the estimates of how much aflatoxin is harmful to the pregnancy and its outcome, including birthweight, birth length, low birthweight (LBW), small for gestational age (SGA), stunting
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Deployment of vaccine cold chain equipment in resource-limited settings: lessons from the Gavi Cold Chain Optimization Platform in Cameroon Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-09 Jude Nkwain, Vouking Marius Zambou, Sangwe Clovis Nchinjoh, Valirie Ndip Agbor, Amani Adidja, Clarence Mbanga, Nnang Nadege Edwidge, Shalom Tchokfe Ndoula, Ateke Njoh Andreas, Demba Diack, Pietro Di Mattei, Owens Wiwa, Ousmane Diaby, Yauba Saidu
Background Lack of or use of suboptimal cold chain equipment (CCE) is a major barrier to optimal immunization coverage and equity. Gavi established the CCE optimization platform (CCEOP) in 2015 to help eligible countries modernize their cold chain systems. However, there are limited data on CCE deployment at country level. We present lessons learnt from deploying CCE from the Gavi CCEOP in Cameroon
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in East Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-07 Guesh Mebrahtom, Abrha Hailay, Teklewoini Mariye, Teklehaimanot Gereziher Haile, Goitom Girmay, Kidane Zereabruk, Woldu Aberhe, Degena Bahrey Tadesse
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease that causes restricted airflow and breathing problems. Globally, COPD is the third leading cause of death and low- and middle-income countries account for the majority of these deaths. There is limited information on COPD's prevalence in East Africa. Thus the purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to estimate the
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Mediating effects of hypertension in association between household wealth disparities and diabetes among women of reproductive age: analysis of eight countries in sub-Saharan Africa Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-07 Samuel H Nyarko, Isaac Y Addo, Castro Ayebeng, Kwamena S Dickson, Evelyn Acquah
Background Diabetes prevalence appears to be increasing in low- and middle-income countries, yet little is known about how hypertension status mediates the association between household wealth and diabetes. This study examined the mediation effects of hypertension in associations between household wealth and diabetes in eight sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries. Methods This is a cross-sectional study
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Prevalence, inequality and associated factors of overweight/obesity among Bangladeshi adolescents aged 15–19 years Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-02-02 Md Sabbir Ahmed, Safayet Khan, Mansura Islam, Md Irteja Islam, Md Musharraf Hossain, Bayezid Khan, Fakir Md Yunus
Background The objective of the current study was to estimate the prevalence and associated factors of overweight/obesity among Bangladeshi adolescents aged 15–19 y and to identify whether wealth-related inequality exists for overweight/obesity among Bangladeshi older adolescents. Methods We analyzed publicly available national representative secondary data from the 2019–2020 Bangladesh Adolescent
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Obstetric transition: trends in maternal mortality in Somalia over the last two decades Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-01-20 Ahmed Aweis, Abdirahman H Osoble, Suleyman A Mohamed, Abdulkadir Aweis
Background This paper sheds light on the trends of the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and obstetric transition in Somalia over the last two decades. Methods This is a descriptive study comparing aggregate secondary data from the 2006 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey and the 2020 Somali Health and Demographic Survey to show the transition. Results A 44% reduction of the MMR from 1044 to 692 per 100
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Neck circumference as a predictor of all-cause mortality in middle-aged and older adults in rural Ecuador. Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-01-17 Oscar H Del Brutto,Denisse A Rumbea,Maitri Patel,Robertino M Mera
BACKGROUND Neck circumference (NC) has been associated with mortality secondary to cardiovascular diseases and other conditions. However, information on this association in the population at large is limited. We aimed to assess this association in community dwellers living in rural Ecuador. METHODS Individuals aged ≥40 y who were enrolled in the population-based Three Villages Study cohort were prospectively
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Predictor of anemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia: a case-control study Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-01-16 Tadesse Dufera, Merga Dheresa, Tariku Dingeta, Mezgebu Legesse, Sinetibeb Mesfin, Bikila Balis, Tegenu Balcha
Background Anemia during pregnancy is a public health problem and is related to negative birth outcomes, especially in developing countries. The main aim of this study was to assess predictors of anemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia. Methods Unmatched case-control study design was employed among 352 individuals
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Introduction of a novel neonatal warming device in Malawi: an implementation science study Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-01-12 Mc Geofrey Mvula, Alejandro Frade Garcia, Lemekeza Namwali, Beatrice Lydia Matanje, Isaac Mphande, Fabien Munyaneza, Sitalire Kapira, Anne Hansen
Background Neonatal hypothermia significantly contributes to infant morbidity and mortality in low-resource settings like Malawi. Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is essential but faces challenges in providing continuous thermal support. The Dream Warmer is a neonatal warming device that was developed to complement KMC. We studied its implementation outside a research environment. Methods Using an implementation
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Is there an association between gender stereotypes and sexual risk attitudes and behaviors? A population-based study among Peruvian adolescents Int. Health (IF 2.3) Pub Date : 2024-01-09 Diana Manuela Ticona, Ariana Gabriela Musaja-Cruz, Paula Regina Durand-Anahua, Raul Eduardo Escobar-Cabezas, Luz Mirian Mamani, Crislee Elizabeth Lopez
Background Adolescents, particularly those aged 14 to 15 y, often begin exploring their sexuality, during which time they are more vulnerable to traditional influences and ideologies imposed by society. This study aimed to identify the association between more traditional attitudes toward women and sexual risk attitudes and behaviors in Peruvian adolescents. Materials and methods Cross-sectional study