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Heo SJ, Kim YA, Lee DH, Shin JY. How Bereaved Parents Experience Public, Self Stigma Years After a Child's Death. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024; 90:194-224. [PMID: 35532351 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221100902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
This study identifies the stigma experienced by 12 bereaved parents 2 and 5 years after losing a child in the Sewol ferry disaster in South Korea. Using thematic analysis, we categorized the experience of stigma into two components based on Corrigan and Kosyluk's social cognitive model of stigma: public stigma and self-stigma, and each was analyzed into three types of stigma: stereotype, prejudice, and discrimination. We identified four additional factors related to stigma mitigation. The potential implications for characterizing the experiences of bereaved parents, particularly those facing stigma, are discussed in light of these findings in the longitudinal perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Jung Heo
- Department of Education, Traumatic Stress Center, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young Ae Kim
- Department of Education, Traumatic Stress Center, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dong Hun Lee
- Department of Education, Traumatic Stress Center, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji Young Shin
- Department of Education, Traumatic Stress Center, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
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Biset G, Abebaw N, Gebeyehu NA, Estifanos N, Birrie E, Tegegne KD. Prevalence, incidence, and trends of epilepsy among children and adolescents in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:771. [PMID: 38475724 PMCID: PMC10935902 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18236-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy contributes to a significant disease burden in children and adolescents worldwide. The incidence of childhood epilepsy is threefold higher in low and middle income countries compared in high-income countries. Epilepsy is a serious neurological condition associated with stigma and discrimination, an impaired quality of life, and other mental health related problems. OBJECTIVE This study is aimed to synthesize existing evidence and estimate the pooled prevalence and incidence of epilepsy in children and adolescents in Africa. METHODS A comprehensive and systematic search of relevant databases was conducted. The quality of each study was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale adapted for meta-analysis. Two reviewers screened retrieved articles, conducted critical appraisals, and extracted the data. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed by visual inspection of forest plots and statistically using Cochran's Q statistics and the I2 test. Publication bias was checked by visual inspection of funnel plots as well as statistically using Egger's correlation and Begg's regression tests. Finally, the pooled prevalence and incidence of childhood epilepsy were computed with 95% confidence intervals. RESULT In this review and meta-analysis 42 studies with 56 findings were included to compute the pooled prevalence of childhood epilepsy. On the other hand, 6 studies were included to estimate the combined incidence. The pooled prevalence of cumulative epilepsy was 17.3 per 1000 children. Whereas the pooled prevalence of active and lifetime epilepsy was 6.8 and 18.6 per 1000 children respectively. The pooled incidence of childhood epilepsy was 2.5 per 1000 children. CONCLUSION Nearly 1 in 50 children are suffering from epilepsy in Africa. However, little attention has been paid to the prevention and treatment of childhood epilepsy. Mass epilepsy screening, scaling up treatment coverage, and designing strict treatment follow up and monitoring mechanisms are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gebeyaw Biset
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, P.O.BOX: 1145, Ethiopia.
| | - Nigusie Abebaw
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Natnael Atnafu Gebeyehu
- School of Midwifery, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Natan Estifanos
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Endalk Birrie
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, P.O.BOX: 1145, Ethiopia
| | - Kirubel Dagnaw Tegegne
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
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Garrez I, Teuwen DE, Sebera F, Mutungirehe S, Ndayisenga A, Kajeneza D, Umuhoza G, Kayirangwa J, Düll UE, Dedeken P, Boon PAJM. Very high epilepsy prevalence in rural Southern Rwanda: The underestimated burden of epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa. Trop Med Int Health 2024; 29:214-225. [PMID: 38124297 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Up to 85% of people living with epilepsy (PwE) reside in low-and middle-income countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, the lifetime prevalence of epilepsy is 16 per 1000 persons. In Northern rural Rwanda, a 47.7 per 1000 prevalence has been reported. As variations in prevalence across geographical areas have been observed, we studied the prevalence in Southern rural Rwanda using the same robust methodology as applied in the North. METHODS We conducted a three-stage, cross-sectional, door-to-door survey in two rural villages in Southern Rwanda from June 2022 to April 2023. First, trained enumerators administered the validated Limoges questionnaire for epilepsy screening. Second, neurologists examined the persons who had screened positively to confirm the epilepsy diagnosis. Third, cases with an inconclusive assessment were separately reexamined by two neurologists to reevaluate the diagnosis. RESULTS Enumerators screened 1745 persons (54.4% female, mean age: 24 ± 19.3 years), of whom 304 (17.4%) screened positive. Epilepsy diagnosis was confirmed in 133 (52.6% female, mean age: 30 ± 18.2 years) and active epilepsy in 130 persons. Lifetime epilepsy prevalence was 76.2 per 1000 (95% CI: 64.2-89.7‰). The highest age-specific rate occurred in the 29-49 age group. No gender-specific differences were noted. In 22.6% of the PwE, only non-convulsive seizures occurred. The treatment gap was 92.2%, including a diagnosis gap of 79.4%. CONCLUSION We demonstrated a very high epilepsy prevalence in Southern rural Rwanda, with over 20% of cases having only non-convulsive seizures, which are often underdiagnosed in rural Africa. In line with previous Rwandan reports, we reiterate the high burden of the disease in the country. Geographic variation in prevalence throughout Africa may result from differences in risk and aetiological factors. Case-control studies are underway to understand such differences and propose adapted health policies for epilepsy prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ieme Garrez
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Fidèle Sebera
- Department of Neurology, Ndera Neuro-Psychiatric Teaching Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | | | - Georgette Umuhoza
- Department of Neurology, Ndera Neuro-Psychiatric Teaching Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Uta E Düll
- Medicalized Health Center, Gikonko, Rwanda
| | - Peter Dedeken
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Heilig Hart Ziekenhuis, Lier, Belgium
| | - Paul A J M Boon
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Birabwa-Oketcho H, Nakasujja N, Alinaitwe R, Bird V, Priebe S, Sewankambo N. The effectiveness of a solution-focused approach (DIALOG+) for patients with severe mental illness and epilepsy in Uganda: A randomised controlled trial. PSYCHIATRY RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:None. [PMID: 36911535 PMCID: PMC9995275 DOI: 10.1016/j.psycom.2022.100097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
A patient centred, solution-focused approach, DIALOG+ was assessed for effectiveness among patients with severe mental illness (SMI) and epilepsy in Uganda. Fourteen clinicians and 168 patients attending Butabika National Mental Referral Hospital and outreach clinics in Kampala, Uganda were randomised equally to receive DIALOG + once a month for six months or an active control (DIALOG scale only). The primary outcome was subjective quality of life measured by the Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of life (MANSA) at six months and secondary outcomes assessed at six and twelve months. A generalised linear model with a fixed effect for treatment and the baseline MANSA score and a random effect for clinicians to account for clustering was used to analyse effectiveness of the intervention. The primary outcome was assessed in 154 out of 168 patients (91.7%). Patients in the DIALOG + arm had significantly higher subjective quality of life with a medium Cohen's d effect size of 0.55 and higher adherence to medication after 6 months as compared to the control group. DIALOG + intervention could be a therapeutically effective option for improving quality of life for patients with severe mental illness and epilepsy with the potential to enhance routine review meetings in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Racheal Alinaitwe
- Department of Psychiatry, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Victoria Bird
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Services Development, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Stefan Priebe
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Services Development, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Nelson Sewankambo
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Alizadeh Khatir A, Sepidarkish M, Daryabari Y, Taghipour A, Mollalo A, Aghapour S, Rostami A. Malaria infection and the risk of epilepsy: a meta-analysis. Parasitology 2023; 150:1-9. [PMID: 36705577 PMCID: PMC10090621 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022001780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy, a chronic disease of the central nervous system, is highly prevalent in malaria-endemic regions. Therefore, several studies have evaluated the associations between malaria infection and epilepsy development. A meta-analysis of observational studies published from inception to 10 May 2022 has been conducted to synthesize and pool the existing data on this topic. The relevant publications were systematically searched in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science database collections. A random-effects meta-analysis model (REM) was utilized to generate the pooled odds ratio (OR) at 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The between-studies heterogeneity was assessed with I2, as well as several subgroups, meta-regression and sensitivity analysis were performed to identify the source of heterogeneity. Overall, 17 eligible studies containing 6285 cases and 13 909 healthy controls were included. The REM showed a significant positive association between malaria infection and epilepsy development (OR 2.36; 95% CI 1.44–3.88). In subgroup analyses, significant positive associations were observed in studies that: epilepsy was the outcome in the follow-up of patients with cerebral malaria (OR 7.10; 95% CI 3.50–14.38); used blood smear to diagnose malaria (OR 4.80; 95% CI 2.36–9.77); included only children (OR 3.92; 95% CI 1.81–8.50); published before 2010 (OR 6.39; 95% CI 4.25–9.62). Our findings indicated that patients with malaria, especially those with cerebral malaria, are at a high risk of epilepsy development; however, further well-designed and controlled studies are needed to verify the strength of the association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Alizadeh Khatir
- Mobility Impairment Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mahdi Sepidarkish
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Yasaman Daryabari
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Ali Taghipour
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Mollalo
- Department of Public Health and Prevention Science, School of Health Sciences, Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, Ohio, USA
| | - Saeed Aghapour
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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Namusisi J, Kyoyagala S, Nantongo J, Kyewalyanga M, Sabiiti S, Murorunkwere A, Najjuma JN, Nakibuuka J, Kaddumukasa M, Sajatovic M, Kalubi P. Poor Seizure Control Among Children Attending a Tertiary Hospital in South Western Uganda - A Retrospective Study. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:895-904. [PMID: 36915422 PMCID: PMC10007866 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s398318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Seizure control among children with epilepsy (CWE) receiving anti-seizure medications (ASMs) remains a challenge in low-resource settings. Uncontrolled seizures are significantly associated with increased morbidity and mortality among CWE. This negatively impacts their quality of life and increases stigma. Aim This study determined seizure control status and described the factors associated among CWE receiving ASMs at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH). Methods In a retrospective chart review study, socio-demographic and clinical data were obtained from 112 medical records. CWE receiving ASMs for at least six months and regularly attending the clinic were included in the study. Physical or telephone interviews were conducted with the immediate caregivers of the CWE to establish the current seizure control status of the participants. Results A total of 112 participants were enrolled. Of these, three-quarters had generalized onset seizures, 23% had focal onset seizures, while 2% had unknown onset motor seizures. About 60.4% of the study participants had poor seizure control. Having a comorbidity (p-value 0.048, AOR 3.2 (95% CI 1.0-9.9)), history suggestive of birth asphyxia (p-value 0.014, AOR 17.8 (95% CI 1.8-176.8)), and being an adolescent (p-value 0.006, AOR 6.8 (95% CI 1.8-26.6)) were significantly associated with poor seizure control. Conclusion Seizure control among CWE receiving ASMs at MRRH remains poor. Efforts geared to addressing seizure control and optimizing drugs are needed, especially among children with comorbidities, those with history of birth asphyxia, and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Namusisi
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mbarara, Uganda.,Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Stella Kyoyagala
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Josephine Nantongo
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Mike Kyewalyanga
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mbarara, Uganda.,Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Holy Innocents Children's Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Stephen Sabiiti
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Angelique Murorunkwere
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Josephine Nambi Najjuma
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Jane Nakibuuka
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mark Kaddumukasa
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Neurological and Behavioral Outcomes Center, University Hospital Case Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Peter Kalubi
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mbarara, Uganda
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Zhao CS, Liu DX, Fan YH, Wu JK. LncRNA GAS5 promotes epilepsy progression through the epigenetic repression of miR-219, in turn affecting CaMKIIγ/NMDAR pathway. J Neurogenet 2022; 36:32-42. [PMID: 35642561 DOI: 10.1080/01677063.2022.2067536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
It has been widely reported that dysregulated long-chain noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are closely associated with epilepsy. This study aimed to probe the function of lncRNA growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5), microRNA (miR)-219 and Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII)γ/N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) pathway in epilepsy. Epileptic cell and animal models were constructed using magnesium deficiency treatment and diazepam injection, respectively. GAS5 and miR-219 expressions in epileptic cell and animal models were determined using qRT-PCR assay. The protein levels of CaMKIIγ, NMDAR and apoptosis-related proteins levels were assessed by western blot. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was employed to determine cell proliferation. Besides, TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 levels were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Furthermore, cell apoptosis was evaluated using TUNEL staining and flow cytometric analysis. Finally, the binding relationship between GAS5 and EZH2 was verified using RIP and ChIP assay. Our results revealed that GAS5 was markedly upregulated in epileptic cell and animal models, while miR-219 was down-regulated. GAS5 knockdown dramatically increased cell proliferation of epileptic cells, whereas suppressed inflammation and the apoptosis. Furthermore, our results showed that GAS5 epigenetically suppressed transcriptional miR-219 expression via binding to EZH2. miR-219 mimics significantly enhanced cell proliferation of epileptic cells, while inhibited inflammation and the apoptosis, which was neutralized by CaMKIIγ overexpression. Finally, miR-219 inhibition reversed the effects of GAS5 silence on epileptic cells, which was eliminated by CaMKIIγ inhibition. In conclusion, GAS5 affected inflammatory response and cell apoptosis of epilepsy via inhibiting miR-219 and further regulating CaMKIIγ/NMDAR pathway (See graphic summary in Supplementary Material).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Sheng Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Shanxi Cardiovascular Hospital, Taiyuan, P. R. China
| | - Dong-Xing Liu
- Department of Neurology, Shanxi Cardiovascular Hospital, Taiyuan, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Huai Fan
- Department of Neurology, Shanxi Cardiovascular Hospital, Taiyuan, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Kun Wu
- Department of Neurology, Shanxi Cardiovascular Hospital, Taiyuan, P. R. China
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Diaz MM, Sokhi D, Noh J, Ngugi AK, Minja FJ, Reddi P, Fèvre EM, Meyer ACL. Prevalence of Epilepsy, Human Cysticercosis, and Porcine Cysticercosis in Western Kenya. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 106:1450-1455. [PMID: 38223984 PMCID: PMC9128686 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-0594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cysticercosis is the leading cause of acquired epilepsy worldwide and has been shown to be highly prevalent in pig populations in western Kenya. We conducted a community-based door-to-door survey in a region of western Kenya with a high proportion of pig-keeping households. Persons with epilepsy (PWE) were determined using a screening questionnaire followed by a neurologist evaluation. Cysticercosis serum apDia antigen ELISAs and Western blot for LLGP and rT24h antigen were performed on all PWE and 2% of screen-negative patients. All PWE or people with positive apDia underwent contrast-enhanced brain computed tomography (CT). Of a sample of 810 village residents, 660 (81%) were present in the homestead, of whom 648 (98%) participated. Of these, 17 were confirmed to have lifetime epilepsy, an estimated crude prevalence of 2.6%. No humans with (N = 17) or without (N = 12) epilepsy had serological evidence of cysticercosis infection. Fourteen PWE and one individual with borderline positive apDia antigen ELISA underwent brain CT; none had radiographic findings consistent with neurocysticercosis. Nearly 30% of households kept pigs, with 69% always tethered in both wet and dry seasons. More than 8% (6/72) of pigs had palpable lingual cysts; these pigs all originated from homesteads with latrines, one-third of which were free-ranging at least some of the time. Epilepsy prevalence in our study was greater than the national prevalence, but we found no individuals with epilepsy attributable to cysticercosis. Additional studies are required to identify causes of epilepsy, human and porcine cysticercosis, the role of spatial clustering, and protective factors like host-pathogen immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica M. Diaz
- Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Dilraj Sokhi
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Noh
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | | | - Prabhakhar Reddi
- Aga Khan University East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
- Aga Khan Hospital, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Eric M. Fèvre
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Ana-Claire L. Meyer
- Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Abuga JA, Kariuki SM, Abubakar A, Nyundo C, Kinyanjui SM, Van Hensbroek MB, Newton CRJC. Neurological impairment and disability in children in rural Kenya. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:347-356. [PMID: 34536290 PMCID: PMC9292953 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate geographical change over time in the burden of neurological impairments in school-aged children in a demographic surveillance area. METHOD We investigated changes in neurological impairment prevalence in five domains (epilepsy and cognitive, hearing, vision, and motor impairments) using similar two-phase surveys conducted in 2001 (n=10 218) and 2015 (n=11 223) and determined changes in location-level prevalence, geographical clustering, and significant risk factors for children aged 6 to 9 years (mean 7y 6mo, SD 1y) of whom 50.4% were males. Admission trends for preterm birth, low birthweight (LBW), and encephalopathy were determined using admission data to a local hospital. RESULTS Overall prevalence for any neurological impairment decreased from 61 per 1000 (95% confidence interval [CI] 48.0-74.0) in 2001 to 44.7 per 1000 (95% CI 40.9-48.6) in 2015 (p<0.001). There was little evidence of geographical variation in the prevalence of neurological impairments in either survey. The association between neurological impairments and some risk factors changed significantly with year of survey; for example, the increased association of adverse perinatal events with hearing impairments (exponentiated coefficient for the interaction=5.94, p=0.03). Annual admission rates with preterm birth (rate ratio 1.08, range 1.07-1.09), LBW (rate ratio 1.08, range 1.06-1.10), and encephalopathy (rate ratio 1.08, range 1.06-1.09) significantly increased between 2005 and 2016 (p<0.001). INTERPRETATION There was a significant decline in the prevalence of neurological impairments and differential changes in the associations of some risk factors with neurological impairments over the study period. Limited geographical variation suggests that similar interventions are appropriate across the defined area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Abuga
- Department of Clinical Research (Neurosciences)Kenya Medical Research Institute‐Wellcome Trust Research ProgrammeKilifiKenya,Global Child Health GroupAcademic Medical CentreEmma Children’s HospitalUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Symon M Kariuki
- Department of Clinical Research (Neurosciences)Kenya Medical Research Institute‐Wellcome Trust Research ProgrammeKilifiKenya,Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Department of Clinical Research (Neurosciences)Kenya Medical Research Institute‐Wellcome Trust Research ProgrammeKilifiKenya,Institute for Human DevelopmentThe Agha Khan UniversityNairobiKenya
| | - Christopher Nyundo
- Department of Clinical Research (Neurosciences)Kenya Medical Research Institute‐Wellcome Trust Research ProgrammeKilifiKenya
| | - Samson M Kinyanjui
- Department of Clinical Research (Neurosciences)Kenya Medical Research Institute‐Wellcome Trust Research ProgrammeKilifiKenya,Nuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Michael Boele Van Hensbroek
- Global Child Health GroupAcademic Medical CentreEmma Children’s HospitalUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Charles RJC Newton
- Department of Clinical Research (Neurosciences)Kenya Medical Research Institute‐Wellcome Trust Research ProgrammeKilifiKenya,Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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Temporal trends in the epilepsy treatment gap in low- and low-middle-income countries: A meta-analysis. J Neurol Sci 2022; 434:120174. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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11
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Alizadeh Khatir A, Moghaddam SA, Almukhtar M, Ghorbani H, Babazadeh A, Mehravar S, Rostami A. Toxoplasma infection and risk of epilepsy: A case-control study of incident patients. Microb Pathog 2021; 161:105302. [PMID: 34808274 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We performed an age matched case-control study of incident epileptic patients to assess the relationship between Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity and epilepsy. Cases were 94 newly diagnosed patients (mean age, 36.7 ± 15.9) with unprovoked convulsive epilepsy of unknown etiology and controls were 88 healthy individuals (mean age, 37.5 ± 17.1) with no history of epilepsy or neurological disorders. Sera of all subjects were examined for anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies using commercially enzyme-linked immunoassays. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using univariate analysis and logistic regression, adjusted for potential confounders. The prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies in epileptic patients (68.1%; 95%CI, 57.6-77.3%) was significantly higher than healthy controls (47.7%; 95%CI, 36.9-58.6%), indicating a significant relationship between Toxoplasma infection seropositivity and epilepsy (adjusted OR, 2.58; 95%CI, 1.16-5.72; P value < 0.05). The univariate analyses showed more than two-fold higher Toxoplasma seropositivity in patients with focal (OR, 2.31; 95%CI, 0.94-5.67) and generalized (OR, 2.35; 95%CI, 1.215-4.57) seizures versus healthy controls. Our findings support hypothesis that Toxoplasma infection/exposure may play an important role in development of epilepsy. Preventive measures to control of Toxoplasma infection especially in north of Iran and early treatment might be effective to reduce the occurrence of epilepsy in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Alizadeh Khatir
- Mobility Impairment Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | | | - Hossein Ghorbani
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Arefeh Babazadeh
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Saeed Mehravar
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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Dedeken P, Muhumuza SN, Sebera F, Umwiringirwa J, Bitunguhari L, Tierens H, Teuwen DE, Boon PAJM. Long-Term Impact of Single Epilepsy Training on Knowledge, Attitude and Practices: Comparison of Trained and Untrained Rwandan Community Health Workers. Int J Public Health 2021; 66:645598. [PMID: 34867136 PMCID: PMC8636829 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2021.645598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To close the epilepsy treatment gap and reduce related stigma, eradication of misconceptions is importantIn 2014, Community Health Workers (CHWs) from Musanze (Northern Rwanda) were trained on different aspects of epilepsy. This study compared knowledge, attitude and practices (KAPs) towards epilepsy of trained CHWs 3 years after training, to untrained CHWs from Rwamagana (Eastern Rwanda). Methods: An epilepsy KAP questionnaire was administered to 96 trained and 103 untrained CHWs. Demographic and intergroup KAP differences were analysed by response frequencies. A multivariate analyses was performed based on desired and undesired response categories. Results: Epilepsy awareness was high in both groups, with better knowledge levels in trained CHWs. Negative attitudes were lowest in trained CHWs, yet 17% still reported misconceptions. Multivariate analysis demonstrated the impact of the training, irrespective of age, gender and educational level. Knowing someone with epilepsy significantly induced more desired attitudes. Conclusion: Despite demographic differences between trained and untrained CHWs, a single epilepsy training resulted in significant improvement of desired KAPs after 3 years. Nation-wide CHW training programs with focus on training-resistant items, e.g., attitudes, are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Dedeken
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Heilig Hart Ziekenhuis, Lier, Belgium
- UCB Pharma, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stephen N. Muhumuza
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Kabgayi District Hospital, Kabgayi, Rwanda
| | - Fidele Sebera
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- CARAES Neuro-psychiatric Hospital, Brothers of Charity, Department of Neurology, Kigali, Rwanda
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU-K), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Josiane Umwiringirwa
- CARAES Neuro-psychiatric Hospital, Brothers of Charity, Department of Neurology, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | - Dirk E. Teuwen
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- UCB Pharma, Brussels, Belgium
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Dedeken P, Sebera F, Mutungirehe S, Garrez I, Umwiringirwa J, Van Steenkiste F, Boon PAJM, Teuwen DE. High prevalence of epilepsy in Northern Rwanda: Exploring gender differences. Brain Behav 2021; 11:e2377. [PMID: 34661989 PMCID: PMC8613444 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the prevalence of lifetime epilepsy varies widely between subregions and is higher in rural compared to urban regions. Observed versus expected numbers of patients with epilepsy (PwE) in the northern province of Rwanda did not match the prevalence of 49‰ reported in 2005 in Rwanda. We report a confirmatory prevalence study focused on gender-specific observations. METHODS A cross-sectional door-to-door approach was used in three rural villages. First, epilepsy screening using the Kinyarwanda version of the Limoges questionnaire was performed. Second, confirmation of epilepsy diagnosis was completed by trained physicians. RESULTS In total, 2681 persons (56.14% female) were screened. Of 168 positively screened, 128 persons were diagnosed with epilepsy confirming the prevalence of lifetime epilepsy of 47.7‰ (CI 39.8-56.8). The diagnosis gap was 62.5% with 80 newly diagnosed. The overall female:male ratio was 1.61:1.00. A male preponderance below 9 years of age inverted to a female preponderance above 20 years of age. Female PwE had an older age at first seizure, reported different reasons for not seeking care, and differed from male PwE in possible etiology. For previously diagnosed PwE, the treatment gap was more than 77%. CONCLUSION A high prevalence in rural areas was confirmed, with an observed female/male ratio among the highest of published door-to-door surveys in SSA. Gender differences in associated co-morbidities and age at first seizure warrant future research of underlying etiologies and possible survival bias. A better understanding and focus on gender-associated care-seeking patterns, education, and specific needs are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Dedeken
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Corporate Societal Responsibility, UCB Pharma, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, Heilig Hart Ziekenhuis, Lier, Belgium
| | - Fidele Sebera
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, Ndera, CARAES Neuro-psychiatric Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda.,Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Sylvestre Mutungirehe
- Department of Neurology, Ndera, CARAES Neuro-psychiatric Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda.,Department of Neurology, National University Hospital FANN, University of Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Ieme Garrez
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,4Brain, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Josiane Umwiringirwa
- Department of Neurology, Ndera, CARAES Neuro-psychiatric Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Frank Van Steenkiste
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Psychiatric Center Sint-Jan-Baptist, Zelzate, Belgium
| | - Paul A J M Boon
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,4Brain, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Corporate Societal Responsibility, UCB Pharma, Brussels, Belgium.,4Brain, Ghent, Belgium
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Josias KS, Bangirana P, Rujumba J, Kakooza-Mwesige A. Prevalence and factors associated with behavioural problems in children with epilepsy attending Mulago hospital, Uganda: A cross-sectional study. Seizure 2021; 88:109-115. [PMID: 33848789 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the prevalence of behavioural problems and the associated factors in children with epilepsy (CWE). METHODS This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda, from December 2019 to May 2020. A total of 300 CWE aged 6 to 17 years were consecutively enrolled and assessed for behavioural problems using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. We obtained data on the associated factors by using pretested structured questionnaires, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Kilifi Stigma Scale of Epilepsy, the Morisky medication adherence scale and the Tumaini Child Health Screener for childhood disabilities. Simple logistic regression and multivariate analysis was done to determine the associated factors while adjusting for the presence of neurodevelopmental disorders and childhood disabilities. RESULTS Behavioural problems were detected in 108/300 CWE (36%) with more internalizing (28%) than externalizing (21%) behaviour scores noted. The odds of behavioural problems increased with the presence of co-morbid neurodevelopmental disorders or childhood disabilities (cOR: 5.42, p-value < 0.001). Factors associated with occurrence of behavioural problems were high stigma perception (aOR: 4.06, p-value < 0.001) and being seizure-free in the last six months (aOR: 3.43, p-value =0.031) while being an adolescent (aOR: 0.33, p=0.001) lessened the risk. CONCLUSIONS Behavioural problems occur in more than a third of CWE. They are more in the internalizing domain than in the externalizing domain. Their odds increase with high perceived stigma and in the first six months of seizure control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasereka Songya Josias
- Paediatric Resident, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda..
| | - Paul Bangirana
- Senior lecturer, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda..
| | - Joseph Rujumba
- Senior lecturer, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda..
| | - Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Senior lecturer, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda..
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Gumisiriza H, Sesaazi CD, Olet EA, Kembabazi O, Birungi G. Medicinal plants used to treat "African" diseases by the local communities of Bwambara sub-county in Rukungiri District, Western Uganda. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 268:113578. [PMID: 33189840 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE In Africa, traditional medicine encompasses a diverse range of practices, including herbalism and spiritualism, where some diseases are believed to be "African" since they can only be traditionally treated. Indigenous knowledge on the management of "African" diseases using medicinal plants is still handed down orally from generation to generation by tribal societies of tropical Africa, and with the rapid westernization of these societies there is a pressing need to record local knowledge before it is lost forever. AIM This study documented medicinal plant species associated with the management of "African" diseases by the local communities of Bwambara sub-county in Rukungiri district, Western Uganda. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted using semi-structured questionnaires and interviews. The data collected included names of plant species, plant parts used, diseases treated, methods of preparation, and mode of administration of the herbal remedies. A total of 196 informants participated in the study. Data were analyzed and presented using descriptive statistics and the Informant consensus factor. RESULTS We documented 67 medicinal plant species distributed over 27 families and 62 genera. The most commonly reported species belong to Asteraceae family. The most frequently used medicinal species were Chenopodium opulifolium (27), Sesbania sesban (26), Thevetia peruviana (25), Leonotis nepetifolia (23), Momordica foetida (23), Euphorbia hirta (21) and Cassia mimosoides (20). Leaves were the most commonly used plants parts and decoctions were the main method of preparation. Water was the main medium used for the preparation of the remedies which were administered orally while petroleum jelly was the main medium for those which were used as ointments. The medicinal plant species reported are used to treat 39 conditions which were clustered into 10 International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC) disease categories. There is a high degree of consensus among the informants on which medicinal plant species they use for different diseases especially disorders in the following categories: neurological (FIC = 0.90), general and unspecified (FIC = 0.87), digestive (FIC = 0.86) and female genital (FIC = 0.82). CONCLUSION Local communities of Bwambara sub-county in Rukungiri district, Western Uganda use a rich diversity of medicinal plant species in the management of various "African" diseases. Therefore, collaboration between users of medicinal plants and scientists is paramount, to help in the discovery of new drugs based on indigenous knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannington Gumisiriza
- Department of Chemistry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda.
| | - Crispin Duncan Sesaazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Eunice Apio Olet
- Department of Biology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Owen Kembabazi
- Department of Marketing and International Business, Makerere University Business School, P.O Box 1337, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Birungi
- Department of Chemistry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
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Arinda A, Nakasujja N, Odokonyero R. Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder symptoms in a paediatric neurology clinic at a tertiary hospital in Uganda. S Afr J Psychiatr 2021; 27:1548. [PMID: 33604074 PMCID: PMC7876953 DOI: 10.4102/sajpsychiatry.v27i0.1548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Children with neurological disorders are more likely to present with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms and get an ASD diagnosis. Despite the large burden of childhood neurological disorders in Uganda, there is limited information on ASD amongst children with neurological disorders in Uganda. Aim The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with ASD symptoms amongst children attending the paediatric neurology clinic. Setting The study was conducted at the paediatric neurology clinic of Mulago National Referral Hospital in Uganda. Methods This was a cross-sectional study of 318 children aged 2–9 years. After obtaining consent, a socio-demographic questionnaire and the Social Communication Questionnaire were administered to the caregivers of the children. Additional questions were administered to assess the prenatal, birth and postnatal characteristics of the children. Sample characteristics were described using frequencies and means. Bivariate analysis was carried out using chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess which factors were independently associated with ASD symptoms. Results The mean age of the children was 5 years and 58.2% were males. The prevalence of significant ASD symptoms was found to be 45%. Factors negatively associated with significant ASD symptoms were female sex (odds ratio [OR] 0.48 [95% CI 0.24, 0.98]) and ability to speak (OR 0.09 [95% CI 0.04, 0.2]). The history of delayed developmental milestones was positively associated with significant ASD symptoms (OR 3.3 [95% CI 1.59, 6.84]). Conclusion The prevalence of ASD symptoms is high in children with neurological disorders. Children, especially those with delayed developmental milestones, should routinely be screened for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Arinda
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Raymond Odokonyero
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Koltai DC, Kakooza-Mwesige A, Haglund MM. Understanding the cultural context of epilepsy care in Uganda: Introduction to this special issue. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107293. [PMID: 32943332 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3807, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3807, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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18
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Fuller AT, Almojuela A, Kaddumukasa MN, Chakraborty P, Smith PJ, Kolls BJ, Van Belleghem F, Muhumuza C, Nshemerirwe S, Kaddumukasa M, Nakasujja N, Nakku J, Kakooza-Mwesige A, Haglund MM, Koltai DC. Hospital-based epilepsy care in Uganda: A prospective study of three major public referral hospitals. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107301. [PMID: 32861671 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study sets out to describe the current demographics of people with epilepsy (PWE) attending hospital-based care in Uganda and the epilepsy treatment practices within three of the largest Ugandan public referral hospitals. METHODS In a six-month prospective cohort study, 626 children and adults attending epilepsy clinics at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital and Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital were enrolled. Using a study questionnaire, data were collected at baseline and at 3 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months following enrollment. Specific data surrounding individual patient demographics, clinical characteristics and severity of epilepsy, and treatment of epilepsy with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were collected. RESULTS Female patients totaled to 50.8%, with a nearly equal gender distribution at each hospital. There was no statistical difference in gender or age between sites. The majority of PWE had completed primary school, with less than 15% of patients completing more than a secondary education. Seizure severity was high, with most patients having multiple seizures per week at the initial onset of epilepsy, and greater than 90% of patients reporting a loss of consciousness with seizures. The majority of patients (54.95%) also reported a developmental or learning delay. Most patients were on 1 AED (46.01%) or 2 AEDs (36.90%), with carbamazepine being the most frequently prescribed AED. There was a trend towards improved seizure severity over the follow-up period, as assessed by the corresponding Personal Impact of Epilepsy Scale (PIES) subscale. CONCLUSIONS People with epilepsy attending hospital-based care in Uganda tend to have severe forms of epilepsy requiring management with AEDs. Current hospital-based practices show a positive trend for seizure burden and quality of life of PWE in Uganda. Further interventions to improve overall access to biomedical care are required to continue to advance the management of PWE across all communities. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Alysa Almojuela
- Section of Neurosurgery, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, GB1-820 Sherbrook Street, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, MB R3A 1R9, Canada
| | - Martin N Kaddumukasa
- Department of Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda; School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Payal Chakraborty
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Patrick J Smith
- Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Brad J Kolls
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Neuroscience Medicine, 300 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Florence Van Belleghem
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Department of Medicine, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christine Muhumuza
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Makerere University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Mulago Complex, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sylvia Nshemerirwe
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, P.O. Box 7017, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mark Kaddumukasa
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nakku
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, P.O. Box 7017, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA.
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Koltai DC, Smith CE, Cai GY, Ratliff O, Kakooza-Mwesige A, Najjuma JN, Muhindo R, Rukundo GZ, Teuwen DE, Kayanja A, Kalubi P, Haglund MM, Fuller AT. Healthcare provider perspectives regarding epilepsy care in Uganda. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107294. [PMID: 32763023 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is the most common chronic neurological disorder in the world and imposes a large economic burden on global healthcare systems, especially in low-income settings and rural areas as is found in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite the high epilepsy prevalence, there are no systematic descriptions of healthcare provider (HCP) perceptions and needs in managing people with epilepsy (PWE) in Uganda. Identifying these perceptions and needs is crucial for understanding community priorities, thereby enhancing the development of culturally sensitive communications, interventions, and research approaches. METHODS In this qualitative study, we used semistructured interview guides to conduct focus group discussions that explored the perspectives of 32 providers of epilepsy care from health facilities around Mbarara, Uganda. Our sample included nonspecialized general physicians (n = 3), medical residents (n = 8), medical clinical officers (n = 3), psychiatric clinical nurses (n = 6), medical nurses and nursing assistants (n = 9), and other providers (n = 3), who were loosely grouped into discussion groups based on level or type of training. Self-assessed proficiency ratings were also administered to gain a better understanding of participants' confidence in their training, preparedness, and capabilities regarding epilepsy care. Thematic analysis of the focus group transcripts was conducted to ascertain commonly occurring themes about perceptions and challenges in epilepsy care. RESULTS Our analyses identified nine major themes that dominated the perspectives of the study participants: care management, medications, diagnostics, HCP training, human resources, location, patient education, social support, and community knowledge and beliefs. Proficiency ratings prioritized areas of confidence as knowledge related to referrals, psychosocial impacts, and seizure neurophysiology. Areas of need were revealed as knowledge of diagnostic tools and antiepileptic drug (AED) regimens. CONCLUSIONS Our findings delineate the perspectives of providers caring for PWE, with consistent recognition of challenges centering around resource augmentation, infrastructure strengthening, and education. Participants emphasized the urgent need to augment these resources to address limitations in medication types and access, trained human resources, and diagnostic tools. They overwhelmingly recognized the need for infrastructure strengthening to address human, diagnostic, medicinal, and capital resource limitations that place undue burden on patients with epilepsy and physicians. Providers indicated a clear desire to learn more about different diagnostic tools and medical management practices, potentially through continuing education, specialized training, or more intentional in-school diagnostic preparation. They also advocated for the powerful influence of patient and family education and clearly articulated the need for community sensitization and support. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC, Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Caleigh E Smith
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Grace Y Cai
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Olivia Ratliff
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Josephine N Najjuma
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology Department of Nursing, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, PO Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda; Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Rose Muhindo
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda; Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Department of Medicine, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, PO Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Godfrey Z Rukundo
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, PO Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- UCB, Allée de la recherche 60, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Adrian Kayanja
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda; Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Department of Medicine, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, PO Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Peter Kalubi
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, P. O Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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Kakooza-Mwesige A, Kaddumukasa M, Koltai DC, Kaddumukasa MN, Nakasujja N, Kajumba M, Nakku J, Kolls BJ, Fuller AT, Teuwen DE, Haglund MM. Leveraging the lessons learned from studies on the cultural context of epilepsy care in Uganda: Opportunities and future directions. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107302. [PMID: 32868221 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this summary paper, we review the body of research contained in this special issue, The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda, and corollary recommendations for a way forward. We review key findings and conclusions for the studies, which tell a story of culture and care-seeking through discussions and data gleaned from a rich research landscape traversing community village dwellings, shared communal areas, churches, and urban hospitals. The voices and perspectives of over 16,000 study participants inclusive of people living with epilepsy, their neighbors and healthcare workers, traditional healers, and faith leaders are reported. From this, we synthesize findings and prioritize a set of recommendations to advance epilepsy care in Uganda. Progress will require infrastructure strengthening, multilevel educational investments, and an ambitious, extensive program of community sensitization. These proposed priorities and actions outline a way forward through formidable but surmountable challenges but require harmonized efforts by government and other relevant stakeholders, scholars, clinicians, and community leaders. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P.O.Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mark Kaddumukasa
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC, Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Martin N Kaddumukasa
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mayanja Kajumba
- Department of Mental Health and Community Psychology, Makerere University School of Psychology, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nakku
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, P.O. Box 7017, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brad J Kolls
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Neuroscience Medicine, 300 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- UCB, Allée de la recherche 60, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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21
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Kaddumukasa MN, Kaddumukasa M, Kajumba M, Smith PJ, Bobholz S, Kakooza-Mwesige A, Sinha DD, Almojuela A, Chakraborty P, Nakasujja N, Nakku J, Gualtieri A, Onuoha E, Kolls BJ, Muhumuza C, Smith CE, Sanchez N, Fuller AT, Haglund MM, Koltai DC. Barriers to biomedical care for people with epilepsy in Uganda: A cross-sectional study. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107349. [PMID: 32962922 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy, a neurological disorder with effective biomedical treatment, remains largely untreated in Uganda. Potential reasons for this treatment gap (TG) include limited access to trained providers and clinics, social stigmata of seizures, cultural beliefs, or lack of public understanding of epilepsy as a treatable condition. The current study aimed to formally evaluate barriers faced by people with epilepsy (PWE) in Uganda when seeking biomedical care. METHODS In a cross-sectional study, 435 participants drawn from a community prevalence study were enrolled. We included participants reporting a history of recurrent seizures suggestive of epilepsy, who completed a survey about barriers to obtaining care for their symptoms. Principal axis factor analysis (PFA) using a promax rotation was conducted for data reduction. Frequencies of barrier factors were compared across those who did not seek care for epilepsy (n = 228), those who sought care from biomedical facilities (n = 166), and those who sought care from a traditional or pastoral healer (n = 41). RESULTS The PFA yielded a five-factor solution: 1) logistical and actual costs; 2) treatment effectiveness; 3) influence of the opinion of others; 4) doctors' care; and 5) contextual factors impacting decision-making. Variables related to logistical and actual costs were most endorsed. Comparison of groups by care sought did not reveal a difference in endorsement of factors, with the exception that those who sought biomedical care were more likely to endorse factors related to doctors' care compared with those that sought care from traditional or pastoral healers (P = .005). CONCLUSIONS People with repetitive seizures in Uganda report several barriers to obtaining biomedical care in Uganda, with those related to practical and actual costs endorsed the most. It is imperative that interventions developed to reduce the TG in Uganda consider these practical issues to improve access to effective epilepsy care. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin N Kaddumukasa
- Department of Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda; School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mark Kaddumukasa
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mayanja Kajumba
- Department of Mental Health and Community Psychology, Makerere University School of Psychology, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Patrick J Smith
- Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Samuel Bobholz
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, Department of Neurology, 1685 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705-2281, USA
| | - Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Drishti D Sinha
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Alysa Almojuela
- Section of Neurosurgery, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, GB1-820 Sherbrook Street, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, MB R3A 1R9, Canada
| | - Payal Chakraborty
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nakku
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, P.O. Box 7017, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alex Gualtieri
- Duke University Medical Center, Clinical Neuropsychology Service, Box 3333, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Erica Onuoha
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Brad J Kolls
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Neuroscience Medicine, 300 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Christine Muhumuza
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Makerere University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, New Mulago Complex, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Caleigh E Smith
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Nadine Sanchez
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA.
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22
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Stakeholder views of the practical and cultural barriers to epilepsy care in Uganda. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107314. [PMID: 32758404 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent, treatable neurological diseases globally. In sub-Saharan Africa, people with epilepsy (PWE) frequently seek treatment from traditional or pastoral healers, who are more accessible than biomedical care providers. This often contributes to the substantial time delay in obtaining adequate biomedical care for these patients. In Uganda, the few biomedical providers who can treat epilepsy cannot meet the great need for epilepsy care. Additionally, patients are often hesitant to seek biomedical care, often preferring the easily accessible and trusted sociocultural treatment options. This study sought to elucidate the barriers to biomedical care for PWE as well as identify potential solutions to overcome these barriers from various stakeholder perspectives. METHODS This study used qualitative research methods. Semistructured interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with four major stakeholder groups: PWE or family members of PWE, neurologists and psychiatrists, traditional healers, and pastoral healers. All interviews and focus group discussions that were in English were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Those that were not in English were translated live and audio recorded. A translator later translated the non-English portion of audio recording to ensure proper interpretation. Two independent coders coded the dataset and conducted an inter-rater reliability (IRR) assessment to ensure reliable coding of the data. Thematic analysis was then performed to discern themes from the data and compare nuances between each of the study design groups. RESULTS Participants discussed several different causes of epilepsy ranging from spiritual to biological causes, often incorporating elements of both. Commonly endorsed spiritual causes of epilepsy included witchcraft and ancestral spirits. Commonly endorsed biological causes included genetics, fever, malaria, and brain injury. For patients and families, beliefs about the cause of epilepsy often played a role in whom they chose to seek treatment from. Three major barriers to biomedical care were discussed: practical barriers, medical infrastructure barriers, and barriers related to stigma. Practical barriers related to issues such as transportation, cost of medical care, and distance to the nearest healthcare facility. Under medical infrastructure, drug stock-outs and lack of access to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were the most consistent problems stated among patients. Stigma was heavily discussed and brought up by nearly every participant. Additionally, three significant solutions to improving epilepsy care in Uganda were highlighted by participants: collaboration among treatment providers, community sensitization efforts to address stigma, and building medical infrastructure. Within building infrastructure, all participant types, except traditional healers, proposed the development of an epilepsy clinic designed to specifically treat epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, there are four critical interventions that should be considered for improving epilepsy care in Uganda: the creation of dedicated epilepsy clinics, infrastructure strengthening to address medication stock-outs, community outreach programs for sensitization, and collaboration between biomedical providers and traditional healers. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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23
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Sadeghi M, Riahi SM, Mohammadi M, Saber V, Aghamolaie S, Moghaddam SA, Aghaei S, Javanian M, Gamble HR, Rostami A. An updated meta-analysis of the association between Toxoplasma gondii infection and risk of epilepsy. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2020; 113:453-462. [PMID: 31034025 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trz025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a neurotropic pathogen with worldwide distribution. To evaluate the association between Toxoplasma infection and the risk of epilepsy by meta-analysis, observational peer-reviewed studies were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar (up to 10 October 2018) and by reference review. Pooled risk estimates were calculated using a random effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane's Q-test and I2. In total, 16 eligible studies involving 19 data sets were included for the final analysis. A total 7897 participants (3771 epileptic patients, 4026 healthy controls) were included. The pooled odds ratio (OR) for Toxoplasma infection was increased to 1.72 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37 to 2.16) among patients with epilepsy. There was moderate heterogeneity among the studies (χ2=39.8, I2=62.3%, p=0.001). The ORs from subgroup analyses showed that both cryptogenic epilepsy (OR 2.65 [95% CI 1.91 to 3.68]) and active convulsive epilepsy (OR 1.37 [95% CI 1.09 to 1.72]) were significantly associated with Toxoplasma infection. Another subgroup analyses according to age showed a significant positive association in children (OR 1.33), adults (OR 1.57) and in all ages (OR 1.89). Our findings support the association between Toxoplasma infection and epilepsy. More prospective studies with larger sample sizes and more experimental studies are recommended to elucidate a causative relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Sadeghi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Riahi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Mohammadi
- Clinical Parasitology Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Vafa Saber
- Department of Microbiology, Islamic Azad University, Varamin Pishva Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Aghamolaie
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shima Aghaei
- Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Javanian
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - H Ray Gamble
- National Academy of Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.,Immunoregulation Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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24
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Owolabi LF, Owolabi SD, Adamu B, Jibo A, Alhaji ID. Epilepsy treatment gap in Sub-Saharan Africa: Meta-analysis of community-based studies. Acta Neurol Scand 2020; 142:3-13. [PMID: 32219865 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence, highlight the variation and determine the trend over time, of epilepsy treatment gap (ETG) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). METHODS We systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, ISI databases, and African Journal Online (AJOL). We determined the pooled prevalence estimate of ETG and the degree of heterogeneity in the region. Further subgroup analysis by sub-region, settlement setting, and cutoff adopted for active epilepsy in the studies was carried out. Meta-regression technique was also used to determine the trend of the ETG magnitude over time. RESULTS Twenty-three studies from SSA met the inclusion criteria. We found a high level of discordance among the studies that were included. Collectively, the estimated ETG was 68.5% (95% CI: 59.5%-77.5%). On subgroup analysis, the prevalence of the ETG was 67% (95% CI: 52%, 83%) in the Western, 68% (95% CI: 56%, 80%) in the Eastern, and 63% (95% CI: 53%, 73%) in the Southern Africa sub-regions. On stratified analysis based on 1-year, 5-year, and 2-year cutoffs for definition of active epilepsy, the prevalence figures for the ETG were 71% (95% CI: 56%, 85%), 55% (95% CI: 33%, 77%), and 57% (95% CI: 43%, 71%), respectively. Meta-regression result suggested that the prevalence of the ETG decreases by approximately by 0.006 per year. CONCLUSION The study showed a high prevalence of ETG, higher than the average for resource poor countries, and twice in rural compared with urban settlements in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. F. Owolabi
- Departments of Medicine Bayero University Kano Nigeria
| | - S. D. Owolabi
- Department of Psychiatry, Bayero University Kano Nigeria
| | - B. Adamu
- Department of Medicine University of Bisha Bisha Saudi Arabia
| | - A.M. Jibo
- Department of Community Medicine Bayero University Kano Nigeria
| | - I. D. Alhaji
- Departments of Medicine Bayero University Kano Nigeria
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25
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Cai X, Long L, Zeng C, Ni G, Meng Y, Guo Q, Chen Z, Li Z. LncRNA ILF3-AS1 mediated the occurrence of epilepsy through suppressing hippocampal miR-212 expression. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:8413-8422. [PMID: 32404536 PMCID: PMC7244033 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increased expression of some matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is closely associated with epilepsy. However, factors that promote their expression have not been clarified. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in the development of human diseases, including various cancers, but its potential function in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) has remained unexplored. In this study, we showed that hippocampal and serum ILF3-AS1 levels are higher in TLE patients than in matched controls. Interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α induced ILF3-AS1 expression in astrocytes, while ectopic expression of ILF3-AS1 enhanced IL-6 and TNF-α expression. Ectopic ILF3-AS1 in astrocytes also increased expression of MMP2, MMP3, MMP9 and MMP14, but suppressed expression of miR-212. Consistent with that finding, miR-212 levels were lower in the hippocampus and serum of TLE patients than their controls. This suggests that ILF3-AS1 promotes expression of inflammatory cytokines and MMPs by targeting miR-212 and that ILF3-AS1 plays a crucial role in the development of TLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Cai
- Department of Neurology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ling Long
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chao Zeng
- Department of Pathology, The Eight Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guanzhong Ni
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Meng
- Department of Neurology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Guangdong 999 Brain Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziyi Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Li
- Department of Neurology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Rutebemberwa E, Ssemugabo C, Tweheyo R, Turyagaruka J, Pariyo GW. Biomedical drugs and traditional treatment in care seeking pathways for adults with epilepsy in Masindi district, Western Uganda: a household survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:17. [PMID: 31907036 PMCID: PMC6945646 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4879-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many patients with epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa do not receive adequate treatment. The purpose of the study was to identify the health care providers where patients with epilepsy sought care and what treatment they received. METHODS A cross sectional study was conducted across 87 out of 312 villages in Masindi district. A total of 305 households having patients with epilepsy were surveyed using an interviewer administered questionnaire. Data was entered and analysed in Epi-info ver 7 for univariate and bivariate analysis, and in Stata SE ver 15.0 for multivariable analysis. Sequences of health providers consulted in care seeking, rationale and drugs used, and factors associated with choice of provider were assessed. RESULTS A total of 139 out of 305 (45.6%) households offered some treatment regimen at home when patients got symptoms of epilepsy with 44.6% (62/139) giving herbs and 18.0% (25/139) offering prayers. Eight different types of providers were consulted as first contact providers for treatment of epilepsy. Health centres received the highest percentage 35.4% (108/305) followed by hospitals 20.9% (64/305). A total of 192 of 305 (63.0%) households received anti-epileptic drugs, 13.1% (40/305) received prayers and 21.6% (66/305) received herbs at the first contact care seeking. Compared to a health centre as the first choice provider, other facilities more significantly visited were; hospitals if they were perceived as nearer (adj. Coeff 2.16, 95%CI 0.74, 3.59, p = 0.003), churches / mosques if cure for epilepsy was expected (adj. Coeff 1.91, 95%CI 0.38, 3.48, p = 0.014), and traditional healer for those aged ≥46 years (adj. Coeff 5.83, 95%CI 0.67, 10.99, p = 0.027), and friends/neighbour for traders (adj. Coeff 2.87, 95%CI 0.71, 5.04, p = 0.009). CONCLUSION Patients with epilepsy seek treatment from multiple providers with the public sector attending to the biggest proportion of patients. Engaging the private sector and community health workers, conducting community outreaches and community sensitization with messages tailored for audiences including the young, older epileptics, traditional healers as stakeholders, and traders could increase access to appropriate treatment for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizeus Rutebemberwa
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda. .,African Centre for Health and Environmental Studies, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Charles Ssemugabo
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Raymond Tweheyo
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Public Health, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - John Turyagaruka
- District Health Office, Masindi District Local Government, Masindi, Uganda
| | - George William Pariyo
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of International Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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27
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Samia P, Hassell J, Hudson JA, Murithi MK, Kariuki SM, Newton CR, Wilmshurst JM. Epilepsy diagnosis and management of children in Kenya: review of current literature. Res Rep Trop Med 2019; 10:91-102. [PMID: 31388319 PMCID: PMC6607977 DOI: 10.2147/rrtm.s201159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The growing impact of non-communicable diseases in low- to middle-income countries makes epilepsy a key research priority. We evaluated peer-reviewed published literature on childhood epilepsy specific to Kenya to identify knowledge gaps and inform future priorities. Methodology: A literature search utilizing the terms "epilepsy" OR "seizure" as exploded subject headings AND "Kenya" was conducted. Relevant databases were searched, generating 908 articles. After initial screening to remove duplications, irrelevant articles, and publications older than 15 years, 154 papers remained for full-article review, which identified 35 publications containing relevant information. Data were extracted from these reports on epidemiology, etiology, clinical features, management, and outcomes. Results: The estimated prevalence of lifetime epilepsy in children was 21-41 per 1,000, while the incidence of active convulsive epilepsy was 39-187 cases per 100,000 children per year. The incidence of acute seizures was 312-879 per 100,000 children per year and neonatal seizures 3,950 per 100,000 live births per year. Common risk factors for both epilepsy and acute seizures included adverse perinatal events, meningitis, malaria, febrile seizures, and family history of epilepsy. Electroencephalography abnormalities were documented in 20%-41% and neurocognitive comorbidities in more than half. Mortality in children admitted with acute seizures was 3%-6%, and neurological sequelae were identified in 31% following convulsive status epilepticus. Only 7%-29% children with epilepsy were on antiseizure medication. Conclusion: Active convulsive epilepsy is a common condition among Kenyan children, remains largely untreated, and leads to extremely poor outcomes. The high proportion of epilepsy attributable to preventable causes, in particular neonatal morbidity, contributes significantly to the lifetime burden of the condition. This review reaffirms the ongoing need for better public awareness of epilepsy as a treatable disease and for national-level action that targets both prevention and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Samia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jane Hassell
- Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, Child development Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Symon M Kariuki
- Kemri–Wellcome Trust Collaborative Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Charles R Newton
- Kemri–Wellcome Trust Collaborative Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Jo M Wilmshurst
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
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