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Sweileh WM. Contribution of researchers in Arab countries to scientific publications on neglected tropical diseases (1971 - 2020). Trop Dis Travel Med Vaccines 2022; 8:14. [PMID: 35650654 PMCID: PMC9159044 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-022-00173-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are endemic in several Arab countries. The purpose of the current study was to assess the contribution of researchers in Arab countries to the knowledge base on NTDs using bibliometric indicators. METHODS Keywords related to all 20 NTDs were obtained from previously published bibliometric studies and were combined with the names of Arab countries listed as country affiliation. the search strategy was implemented in the Scopus database and bibliometric indicators were generated for the study period from 1971 to 2020 RESULTS: The search strategy generated 6542 documents; representing less than 4% of the global research in the field. Scientific research on NTDs from researchers in Arab countries (a) has experienced slow growth; (b) generated a relatively inadequate number of publications over the study period; (c) was disseminated mainly through journals in the field of parasitology or tropical medicine; (d) was contributed by researchers from the 22 Arab countries, but mainly by researchers from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan; (e) has fragmented author networks with weak collaboration between active authors in the field; (f) was characterized by strong cross-country research collaboration with researchers in the US and the UK; (g) has focused on three main diseases, specifically, schistosomiasis, leishmaniasis, and onchocerciasis, and (h) showed less emphasis on soil-transmitted helminthiasis infections despite high prevalence. CONCLUSIONS Arab countries cannot achieve the 2030 global agenda without control and elimination of prevalent NTDs. Researchers in Arab countries need to establish strong research networks to exchange expertise on all NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed M Sweileh
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology/Toxicology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.
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Ackley C, Elsheikh M, Zaman S. Scoping review of Neglected Tropical Disease Interventions and Health Promotion: A framework for successful NTD interventions as evidenced by the literature. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009278. [PMID: 34228729 PMCID: PMC8321407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) affect more than one billion people globally. A Public Library of Science (PLOS) journal dedicated to NTDs lists almost forty NTDs, while the WHO prioritises twenty NTDs. A person can be affected by more than one disease at the same time from a range of infectious and non-infectious agents. Many of these diseases are preventable, and could be eliminated with various public health, health promotion and medical interventions. This scoping review aims to determine the extent of the body of literature on NTD interventions and health promotion activities, and to provide an overview of their focus while providing recommendations for best practice going forward. This scoping review includes both the identification of relevant articles through the snowball method and an electronic database using key search terms. A two-phased screening process was used to assess the relevance of studies identified in the search–an initial screening review followed by data characterization using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP). Studies were eligible for inclusion if they broadly described the characteristics, methods, and approaches of (1) NTD interventions and/or (2) community health promotion. Principal findings 90 articles met the CASP criteria partially or fully and then underwent a qualitative synthesis to be included in the review. 75 articles specifically focus on NTD interventions and approaches to their control, treatment, and elimination, while 15 focus specifically on health promotion and provide a grounding in health promotion theories and perspectives. 29 of the articles provided a global perspective to control, treatment, or elimination of NTDs through policy briefs or literature reviews. 19 of the articles focused on providing strategies for NTDs more generally while 12 addressed multiple NTDs or their interaction with other infectious diseases. Of the 20 NTDs categorized by the WHO and the expanded NTD list identified by PLOS NTDs, several NTDs did not appear in the database search on NTD interventions and health promotion, including yaws, fascioliasis, and chromoblastomycosis. Conclusions Based on the literature we have identified the four core components of best practices including programmatic interventions, multi sectoral and multi-level interventions, adopting a social and ecological model and clearly defining ‘community.’ NTD interventions tend to centre on mass drug administration (MDA), particularly because NTDs were branded as such based on their being amenable to MDA. However, there remains a need for intervention approaches that also include multiple strategies that inform a larger multi-disease and multi-sectoral programme. Many NTD strategies include a focus on WASH and should also incorporate the social and ecological determinants of NTDs, suggesting a preventative and systems approach to health, not just a treatment-based approach. Developing strong communities and incorporating social rehabilitation at the sublocation level (e.g. hospital) could benefit several NTDs and infectious diseases through a multi-disease, multi-sectoral, and multi-lateral approach. Finally, it is important the ‘community’ is clearly defined in each intervention, and that community members are included in intervention activities and viewed as assets to interventions. Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) affect more than one billion people globally. A person can be affected by more than one disease at the same time. Many of these diseases are preventable, and could be eliminated with various public health, health promotion and medical interventions. This scoping review aims to determine the extent of the body of literature on NTD interventions and health promotion activities, and to provide an overview of their focus while providing recommendations for best practice going forward. Through a database search and by identifying appropriate literature 75 articles were identified that specifically focus on NTD interventions and approaches to their control, treatment, and elimination, while 15 focus specifically on health promotion and provide a grounding in health promotion theories and perspectives. Based on the literature we have identified the four core components of best practices including programmatic interventions, multi sectoral and multi-level interventions, adopting a social and ecological model and clearly defining ‘community.’
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Ackley
- Global Health and Infection Department, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Shahaduz Zaman
- Global Health and Infection Department, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
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Mationg MLS, Tallo VL, Williams GM, Gordon CA, Clements ACA, McManus DP, Gray DJ. The control of soil-transmitted helminthiases in the Philippines: the story continues. Infect Dis Poverty 2021; 10:85. [PMID: 34118990 PMCID: PMC8196932 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-021-00870-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections have long been an important public health concern in the Philippines. In this review, we describe the current status of STH infections there and highlight the control efforts undertaken to reduce STH burden. Main text A nationwide STH mass drug administration (MDA) programme was started in 2006 but the overall STH prevalence remains stubbornly high across the Philippines, ranging from 24.9% to 97.4%. The continued increase in the prevalence may have been due to the challenges related to MDA implementation which include the lack of people’s awareness about the importance of regular treatment, misconceptions about the MDA strategy, lack of confidence on the drugs used, fear of adverse events and general distrust of government programs. There are existing water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) programmes implemented in communities [e.g., Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) program and providing toilet bowls and provision of subsidy for latrine construction] and schools [e.g., WASH in School (WINS) program], but sustained implementation is required to achieve expected outcomes. Although WASH in general is being taught in schools, integration of STH as a disease and community problem in the current public elementary school curriculum is still inadequate. The Integrated Helminth Control Program (IHCP) currently implemented in the country, which is focused on improved sanitation and personal hygiene, health education and preventive chemotherapy, will require continuous appraisal. The sustainability of this programme still continues to be a challenge. Conclusions Despite the major efforts to control STH infections for almost two decades in the Philippines, persistently high STH prevalence has been reported across the country, which is likely due to suboptimal MDA coverage and limitations in WASH and health education programs. Sustainable delivery of integrated control approaches will continue to play a pivotal role in the control and elimination of STH in the Philippines. Graphic abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Lorraine S Mationg
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Building 62 Mills Rd, Acton ACT, Canberra, 2601, Australia. .,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines.
| | - Veronica L Tallo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Gail M Williams
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Catherine A Gordon
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Donald P McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Darren J Gray
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Building 62 Mills Rd, Acton ACT, Canberra, 2601, Australia
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Bizhani N, Hashemi Hafshejani S, Mohammadi N, Rezaei M, Rokni MB. Lymphatic filariasis in Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:411-422. [PMID: 33415391 PMCID: PMC7790732 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06991-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is an important neglected parasitic disease according to the World Health Organization. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of human LF in Asia using a systematic review and meta-analysis approach. Records from 1990 to 2018 in reputable databases including PubMed, Science Direct, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched using a panel of related keywords. All 48 countries of Asia were searched one by one in combination with the keywords. In all, 41,742 cases identified in this study were included in the analysis. According to our findings, the pooled prevalence of LF in Asia was estimated at 3% (95% CI: [1.7, 5.2]). There was no major trend in the cumulative prevalence of LF over time. Some countries in Asia including China, Japan, Vietnam, and South Korea succeeded in eliminating LF as a public health problem, but others still need to monitor the disease. Based on the initiative of the WHO starting in 2000, some countries in Asia succeeded in eliminating LF as a public health problem. Other countries have taken steps to eliminate the disease with variable degrees of success. These efforts might be affected by issues such as climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Bizhani
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeideh Hashemi Hafshejani
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Mohammadi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Rezaei
- Department of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mohammad Bagher Rokni
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Lee J, Ryu JS. Current Status of Parasite Infections in Indonesia: A Literature Review. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2019; 57:329-339. [PMID: 31533400 PMCID: PMC6753303 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2019.57.4.329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Indonesia and South Korea have become inseparable in various respects since the 2 countries established diplomatic relation in 1973. Indonesia is a tropical region that stretches across the equator, comprised of 5 main islands (Java, Kalimantan, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Papua) and 4 archipelagoes (Riau, Bangka Belitung, Nusa Tenggara, and Maluku). As most population of Eastern Indonesia (Sulawesi, Papua and Nusa Tenggara & Maluku) live in poor areas, it is expected that there will be many parasites. Nevertheless, little is known about the status of parasites in Indonesia. This study examines the prevalences of malaria and lymphatic filaria, which are prevalent in Indonesia, as well as those of soil-transmitted-helminths (STH). As a result, the Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax case loads are almost equal. The current prevalence of P. vivax is uniformly low (<5%) in all age groups and annual parasite incidence (API) showed decreasing tendency as 0.84 per 1,000 population in 2016. However, more than 65 million people still live in malaria epidemic regions. Lymphatic filariasis remains an important public health problem and 236 cities were classified as endemic areas in 514 cities/districts in 2017. It is difficult to ascertain the current prevalence rate of STH in Indonesia, although West Sumba and Southwest Sumba in East Nusa Tenggara reported prevalence rate of more than 20%. The study also considers the (sero) prevalences of other parasites identified in Indonesia. This report should be useful not only to parasitologists but also to travelers and people with business in Indonesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juyoung Lee
- Department of Malay-Indonesian Interpretation and Translation, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Yongin 17035, Korea
| | - Jae-Sook Ryu
- Department of Environmental Biology and Medical Parasitology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Science & Engineering, Seoul 04763, Korea
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Hennig B, Petriello MC, Gamble MV, Surh YJ, Kresty LA, Frank N, Rangkadilok N, Ruchirawat M, Suk WA. The role of nutrition in influencing mechanisms involved in environmentally mediated diseases. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2018; 33:87-97. [PMID: 29381475 PMCID: PMC5987536 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2017-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Human exposure to environmental contaminants such as persistent chlorinated organics, heavy metals, pesticides, phthalates, flame retardants, electronic waste and airborne pollutants around the world, and especially in Southeast Asian regions, are significant and require urgent attention. Given this widespread contamination and abundance of such toxins as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the ecosystem, it is unlikely that remediation alone will be sufficient to address the health impacts associated with this exposure. Furthermore, we must assume that the impact on health of some of these contaminants results in populations with extraordinary vulnerabilities to disease risks. Further exacerbating risk; infectious diseases, poverty and malnutrition are common in the Southeast Asian regions of the world. Thus, exploring preventive measures of environmental exposure and disease risk through new paradigms of environmental toxicology, optimal and/or healthful nutrition and health is essential. For example, folic acid supplementation can lower blood arsenic levels, and plant-derived bioactive nutrients can lower cardiovascular and cancer risks linked to pollutant exposure. Data also indicate that diets enriched with bioactive food components such as polyphenols and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids can prevent or decrease toxicant-induced inflammation. Thus, consuming healthy diets that exhibit high levels of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, is a meaningful way to reduce the vulnerability to non-communicable diseases linked to environmental toxic insults. This nutritional paradigm in environmental toxicology requires further study in order to improve our understanding of the relationship between nutrition or other lifestyle modifications and toxicant-induced diseases. Understanding mechanistic relationships between nutritional modulation of environmental toxicants and susceptibility to disease development are important for both cumulative risk assessment and the design and implementation of future public health programs and behavioral interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Hennig
- University of Kentucky Superfund Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Michael C. Petriello
- University of Kentucky Superfund Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Mary V. Gamble
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, NY, USA
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742 08826, South Korea
| | - Laura A. Kresty
- Section of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, MI, USA
| | - Norbert Frank
- German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - William A. Suk
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Tadege B, Shimelis T. Infections with Schistosoma mansoni and geohelminths among school children dwelling along the shore of the Lake Hawassa, southern Ethiopia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181547. [PMID: 28719642 PMCID: PMC5515461 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infections with Schistosoma mansoni and soil-transmitted helminthes (STHs) are major public health problems in Ethiopia. However, information was scarce on the current status of these infections to guide an intervention in the study area. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the prevalence of infections with S. mansoni and STHs and associated factors among school children in southern Ethiopia. METHODS This cross-sectional study investigated children who were attending the Finchawa and Tullo junior elementary schools and were residing along the shore of the lake Hawassa in January and February, 2015. A total of 374 students were selected using systematic random sampling technique. Data on socio-demography and related factors was collected using structured questionnaires. A single stool sample was collected from each child and processed using formol-ether concentration technique and examined microscopically for parasites' ova/larva. RESULTS The prevalence of parasitic infection with one or more than one helminthiasis was found to be 67.9%. Seven different types of helminths were identified and the most prevalent parasites were Ascaris lumbricoides (44.4%), followed by S. mansoni (31%), Trichuris trichiura (11%), and hookworms (7.7%). The rate of infection with STHs was 52.4%. Single, double, triple and quadruple infections were 42.2, 22.5, 2.4, and 0.8%, respectively. Children who practiced open-field defecation (AOR, 3.6; 95% CI 1.6-8.0; p = 0.001) and had not always washed their hands before eating a meal (AOR, 5.0; 95%CI 2.15-11.7; p <0.001) were more infected with STHs. Moreover, the rate of S. mansoni infection was significantly higher among children who were attending the Finchawa school (AOR, 2.13; 95% CI 1.31-3.46; p = 0.002), aged 11-15 years (AOR, 1.97; 95% CI 1.22-3.19; p = 0.006), had swum in the lake Hawassa (AOR, 2.73; 95%CI 1.20-6.17; p = 0.016), and had involved in irrigation-related activities (AOR, 1.68; 95%CI 1.04-2.71; p = 0.034). CONCLUSION The study showed high prevalence of STHs and moderate rate of schisotosomiasis. Mass deworming twice a year for STHs and once every two years for S. mansoni, further to strengthening other prevention measures, is critically needed to reduce these infections to inconsequential level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bamlaku Tadege
- Hawassa University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Microbiology and Parasitology Unit, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Techalew Shimelis
- Hawassa University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Hawassa, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
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Masaku J, Mutungi F, Gichuki PM, Okoyo C, Njomo DW, Njenga SM. High prevalence of helminths infection and associated risk factors among adults living in a rural setting, central Kenya: a cross-sectional study. Trop Med Health 2017; 45:15. [PMID: 28680323 PMCID: PMC5493853 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-017-0055-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosome infection and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are major public health problems in many developing countries where they contribute to the suffering of populations living in poor settings. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in four rural villages in central region of Kenya to provide information on the status of schistosome and STH infections. Previous studies conducted in the area among primary school children showed that there were high STH and Schistosoma mansoni infections. This paper presents the results of a parasitological investigation and the associated risk factors of infection among adults living in the study villages. Methods A total of 495 adults (18–84 years) from systematically selected households were sampled during this cross-sectional survey. They were interviewed and screened for S. mansoni and STHs using duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears. Comparison of prevalence by age group and gender was explored by confidence interval plots, and 95% CI were obtained by generalized least squares (GLS) random effects model. Risk factors associated with S. mansoni infection were determined using mixed effects logistic regression at 95% CI taking into account household clusters. Results The study revealed that the prevalence of S. mansoni infection was 33.5% (95% CI 29.6–38.0) among adults in the study villages, while the prevalence of STH infection was 0.2% (95% CI 0–1.4) with hookworm being the only detected STH species. However, the village and education level were the only risk factors which showed significant evidence of association with S. mansoni infections. Conclusions The current study shows that adult communities in the study area were highly infected with S. mansoni. The study suggests that it may be necessary to develop contemporary approaches towards preventive chemotherapy interventions to adults in high endemic areas to complement the ongoing school-based deworming programme. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s41182-017-0055-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Masaku
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), P.O. Box 54840, Nairobi, 00200 Kenya
| | - Faith Mutungi
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), P.O. Box 54840, Nairobi, 00200 Kenya
| | - Paul M Gichuki
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), P.O. Box 54840, Nairobi, 00200 Kenya
| | - Collins Okoyo
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), P.O. Box 54840, Nairobi, 00200 Kenya
| | - Doris W Njomo
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), P.O. Box 54840, Nairobi, 00200 Kenya
| | - Sammy M Njenga
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), P.O. Box 54840, Nairobi, 00200 Kenya
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Campbell SJ, Nery SV, D’Este CA, Gray DJ, McCarthy JS, Traub RJ, Andrews RM, Llewellyn S, Vallely AJ, Williams GM, Clements ACA. Investigations into the association between soil-transmitted helminth infections, haemoglobin and child development indices in Manufahi District, Timor-Leste. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:192. [PMID: 28424091 PMCID: PMC5395746 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2084-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timor-Leste has a high prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections. High proportions of the population have been reported as being anaemic, and extremely high proportions of children as stunted or wasted. There have been no published analyses of the contributions of STH to these morbidity outcomes in Timor-Leste. METHODS Using baseline cross-sectional data from 24 communities (18 communities enrolled in a cluster randomised controlled trial, and identically-collected data from six additional communities), analyses of the association between STH infections and community haemoglobin and child development indices were undertaken. Stool samples were assessed for STH using qPCR and participant haemoglobin, heights and weights were measured. Questionnaires were administered to collect demographic and socioeconomic data. Intensity of infection was categorised using correlational analysis between qPCR quantification cycle values and eggs per gram of faeces equivalents, with algorithms generated from seeding experiments. Mixed-effects logistic and multinomial regression were used to assess the association between STH infection intensity classes and anaemia, and child stunting, wasting and underweight. RESULTS Very high stunting (60%), underweight (60%), and wasting (20%) in children, but low anaemia prevalence (15%), were found in the study communities. STH were not significantly associated with morbidity outcomes. Male children and those in the poorest socioeconomic quintile were significantly more likely to be moderately and severely stunted. Male children were significantly more likely than female children to be severely underweight. Increasing age was also a risk factor for being underweight. Few risk factors emerged for wasting in these analyses. CONCLUSIONS According to World Health Organization international reference standards, levels of child morbidity in this population constitute a public health emergency, although the international reference standards need to be critically evaluated for their applicability in Timor-Leste. Strategies to improve child development and morbidity outcomes, for example via nutrition and iron supplementation programmes, are recommended for these communities. Despite the apparent lack of an association from STH in driving anaemia, stunting, wasting and underweight, high endemicity suggests a need for STH control strategies. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12614000680662 ; retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzy J. Campbell
- Research School of Population Health, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, The Australian National University, 62 Mills Rd, Acton, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Susana V. Nery
- Research School of Population Health, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, The Australian National University, 62 Mills Rd, Acton, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Catherine A. D’Este
- Research School of Population Health, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, The Australian National University, 62 Mills Rd, Acton, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Darren J. Gray
- Research School of Population Health, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, The Australian National University, 62 Mills Rd, Acton, ACT 2601 Australia
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - James S. McCarthy
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Ross M. Andrews
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Dr, Casuarina, NT 0810 Australia
| | - Stacey Llewellyn
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Andrew J. Vallely
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Gail M. Williams
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Archie C. A. Clements
- Research School of Population Health, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, The Australian National University, 62 Mills Rd, Acton, ACT 2601 Australia
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Kuong K, Fiorentino M, Perignon M, Chamnan C, Berger J, Sinuon M, Molyden V, Burja K, Parker M, Ly SC, Friis H, Roos N, Wieringa FT. Cognitive Performance and Iron Status are Negatively Associated with Hookworm Infection in Cambodian Schoolchildren. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2016; 95:856-863. [PMID: 27573634 PMCID: PMC5062788 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.15-0813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection has been associated with lower cognitive performance of schoolchildren. To identify pathways through which STH infection might affect school performance, baseline data from a large rice-fortification trial in Cambodian schoolchildren were used to investigate associations between STH infection, micronutrient status, anemia, and cognitive performance. Complete data on anthropometry, cognitive performance, and micronutrient status were available for 1,760 schoolchildren, 6-16 years of age. STH infection was identified using Kato-Katz, whereas cognitive performance was assessed using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), block design, and picture completion. STH infection was found in 18% of the children; almost exclusively hookwork infection. After adjusting for age and gender, raw cognitive test scores were significantly lower in hookworm-infected children (-0.65; -0.78; -2.03 points for picture completion, RCPM, and block design, respectively; P < 0.05 for all). Hookworm infection was associated with iron status (total body iron), but not with vitamin A and zinc status, nor with inflammation or anthropometry. Body iron was negatively associated with increased intensity of hookworm infection (R = 0.22, P < 0.001). Hookworm infection in Cambodian schoolchildren was associated with lower cognitive performance, an effect most likely mediated through lower body iron. Interventions that are more effective against hookworm infection are needed to contribute to better health and improvement of cognitive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khov Kuong
- Department of Fisheries Post-Harvest Technologies and Quality Control, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | - Marlene Perignon
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Montpellier, France
| | - Chhoun Chamnan
- Department of Fisheries Post-Harvest Technologies and Quality Control, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Jacques Berger
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Montpellier, France
| | - Muth Sinuon
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Vann Molyden
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Kurt Burja
- United Nations World Food Program, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | | | - Sou Chheng Ly
- Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Henrik Friis
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nanna Roos
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frank T Wieringa
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Montpellier, France
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11
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Dunn JC, Turner HC, Tun A, Anderson RM. Epidemiological surveys of, and research on, soil-transmitted helminths in Southeast Asia: a systematic review. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:31. [PMID: 26813007 PMCID: PMC4728827 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1310-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections of humans fall within the World Health Organization's (WHO) grouping termed the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). It is estimated that they affect approximately 1.4 billion people worldwide. A significant proportion of these infections are in the population of Southeast Asia. This review analyses published data on STH prevalence and intensity in Southeast Asia over the time period of 1900 to the present to describe age related patterns in these epidemiological measures. This is with a focus on the four major parasite species affecting humans; namely Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and the hookworms; Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale. Data were also collected on the diagnostic methods used in the published surveys and how the studies were designed to facilitate comparative analyses of recorded patterns and changes therein over time. PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the Global Atlas of Helminth Infections search engines were used to identify studies on STH in Southeast Asia with the search based on the major key words, and variants on, "soil-transmitted helminth" "Ascaris" "Trichuris" "hookworm" and the country name. A total of 280 studies satisfied the inclusion criteria from 11 Southeast Asian countries; Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam. It was concluded that the epidemiological patterns of STH infection by age and species mix in Southeast Asia are similar to those reported in other parts of the world. In the published studies there were a large number of different diagnostic methods used with differing sensitivities and specificities, which makes comparison of the results both within and between countries difficult. There is a clear requirement to standardise the methods of both STH diagnosis in faecal material and how the intensity of infection is recorded and reported in future STH research and in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of the impact of continuing and expanding mass drug administration (MDA) programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia C Dunn
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, UK. .,Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Hugo C Turner
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, UK. .,Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Aung Tun
- Worm Free Myanmar Kids Program, Tun Khit Foundation, Yangon, Myanmar.
| | - Roy M Anderson
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, UK. .,Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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12
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Burns TE, Stephen C. Finding a Place for Systems-Based, Collaborative Research in Emerging Disease Research in Asia. ECOHEALTH 2015; 12:672-684. [PMID: 26582581 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-015-1072-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The need to adequately predict, prevent and respond to infectious diseases emerging unexpectedly from human-animal-environmental systems has driven interest in multisectoral, socio-economic, systems-based, collaborative (MSC) research approaches such as EcoHealth and One Health. Our goals were to document how MSC research has been used to address EIDs in Asia, and to explore how MSC approaches align with current priorities for EID research in Asia. We gathered priorities for EID research from the peer-reviewed and grey literature, documented organizational descriptions of MCS research approaches, and analysed a series of EID MSC projects. We found that priority areas for EID research in Asia included (1) understanding host-pathogen-environment interactions; (2) improving tools and technologies; (3) changing people's behaviour; and (4) evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. We found that the unifying characteristics of MSC research were that it was action-oriented and sought to inspire change under real-world conditions at the complex interface of human and natural systems. We suggest that MSC research can be considered a type of 'pragmatic research' and might be most useful in describing change in complex human-animal-environmental systems, accelerating research-to-action, and evaluating effectiveness of interventions in 'real world' settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa E Burns
- Centre for Coastal Health, 900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5S5, Canada.
| | - Craig Stephen
- Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, Nanaimo, BC, Canada
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Siza JE, Kaatano GM, Chai JY, Eom KS, Rim HJ, Yong TS, Min DY, Chang SY, Ko Y, Changalucha JM. Prevalence of Schistosomes and Soil-Transmitted Helminths and Morbidity Associated with Schistosomiasis among Adult Population in Lake Victoria Basin, Tanzania. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2015; 53:525-33. [PMID: 26537031 PMCID: PMC4635833 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2015.53.5.525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to carry out a community survey on schistosomiais and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections in order to suggest feasible and effective intervention strategies in Lake Victoria basin, Tanzania. A total of 37 communities selected from 23 districts of the 4 regions in the Lake Victoria basin of Tanzania were involved in the study. From each of the selected locality, 50 adult community members, 25 males and 25 females, were recruited for the study. Each study participant was requested to submit stool and urine specimens. From each stool specimen, duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears were prepared and microscopically examined for Schistosoma mansoni and STH eggs. Urine specimens were processed by the filtration technique and microscopically examined for Schistosoma haematobium eggs. Ultrasound examination for morbidity due to schistosomiasis was performed. Mass treatment was done using praziquantel and albendazole for schistosome and STHs infections, respectively. Out of 1,606 adults who provided stool specimens, 199 (12.4%) were positive for S. mansoni, 349 (21.7%) for hookworms, 133 (8.3%) for Ascaris lumbricoides, and 33 (2.0%) for Trichuris trichiura. Out of 1,400 participants who provided urine specimens, 25 (1.8%) were positive for S. haematobium eggs. Because of the co-endemicity of these afflictions and their impact on vulnerable population groups, the helminthiasis could be simultaneously treated with 2 drugs, praziquantel for schistosomiasis and albendazole for STHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius E Siza
- National Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 1462, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Godfrey M Kaatano
- National Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 1462, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Jong-Yil Chai
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Keeseon S Eom
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Research Institute, Chungbuk National University School of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Han-Jong Rim
- Department of Parasitology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Tai-Soon Yong
- Department of Environmental Medical Biology and Institute of Tropical Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Duk-Young Min
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Eulji University College of Medicine, Daejeon 35233, Korea
| | - Su Young Chang
- Good Neighbors International, Tanzania Western Chapter, P.O. Box 367, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Yunsuk Ko
- Good Neighbors International, Tanzania Western Chapter, P.O. Box 367, Mwanza, Tanzania
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14
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Siza JE, Kaatano GM, Chai JY, Eom KS, Rim HJ, Yong TS, Min DY, Chang SY, Ko Y, Changalucha JM. Prevalence of Schistosomes and Soil-Transmitted Helminths among Schoolchildren in Lake Victoria Basin, Tanzania. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2015; 53:515-24. [PMID: 26537030 PMCID: PMC4635830 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2015.53.5.515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study was to conduct a survey on schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections in order to come up with feasible control strategies in Lake Victoria basin, Tanzania. Depending on the size of the school, 150-200 schoolchildren were recruited for the study. Duplicate Kato-Katz stool smears were prepared from each child and microscopically examined for Schistosoma mansoni and STHs. Urine specimens were examined for Schistosoma haematobium eggs using the filtration technique. After the survey, mass drug administration was done using praziquantel and albendazole for schistosomiasis and STHs infections, respectively. A total of 5,952 schoolchildren from 36 schools were recruited for the study and had their stool and urine specimens examined. Out of 5,952 schoolchildren, 898 (15.1%) were positive for S. mansoni, 754 (12.6%) for hookworms, 188 (3.2%) for Ascaris lumblicoides, and 5 (0.008%) for Trichuris trichiura. Out of 5,826 schoolchildren who provided urine samples, 519 (8.9%) were positive for S. haematobium eggs. The results revealed that intestinal schistosomiasis, urogenital schistosomiasis, and STH infections are highly prevalent throughought the lake basin. The high prevalence of intestinal and urogenital schistosomisiasis in the study area was a function of the distance from Lake Victoria, the former being more prevalent at localities close to the lake, whilst the latter is more so away from it. Control of schistosomiasis and STHs in the study area requires an integrated strategy that involves provision of health education to communities, regular treatments, and provision of adequate safe water supply and sanitation facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius E Siza
- National Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 1462, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Godfrey M Kaatano
- National Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 1462, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Jong-Yil Chai
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Keeseon S Eom
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Research Institute, Chungbuk National University School of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Han-Jong Rim
- Department of Parasitology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Tai-Soon Yong
- Department of Environmental Medical Biology and Institute of Tropical Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Duk-Young Min
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Eulji University College of Medicine, Daejeon 35233, Korea
| | - Su Young Chang
- Good Neighbors International, Tanzania Western Chapter, P.O. Box 367, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Yunsuk Ko
- Good Neighbors International, Tanzania Western Chapter, P.O. Box 367, Mwanza, Tanzania
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15
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Neglected tropical diseases among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN): overview and update. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003575. [PMID: 25880767 PMCID: PMC4400050 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The ten member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) constitute an economic powerhouse, yet these countries also harbor a mostly hidden burden of poverty and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Almost 200 million people live in extreme poverty in ASEAN countries, mostly in the low or lower middle-income countries of Indonesia, the Philippines, Myanmar, Viet Nam, and Cambodia, and many of them are affected by at least one NTD. However, NTDs are prevalent even among upper middle-income ASEAN countries such as Malaysia and Thailand, especially among the indigenous populations. The three major intestinal helminth infections are the most common NTDs; each helminthiasis is associated with approximately 100 million infections in the region. In addition, more than 10 million people suffer from either liver or intestinal fluke infections, as well as schistosomiasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF). Intestinal protozoan infections are widespread, while leishmaniasis has emerged in Thailand, and zoonotic malaria (Plasmodium knowlesi infection) causes severe morbidity in Malaysia. Melioidosis has emerged as an important bacterial NTD, as have selected rickettsial infections, and leptospirosis. Leprosy, yaws, and trachoma are still endemic in focal areas. Almost 70 million cases of dengue fever occur annually in ASEAN countries, such that this arboviral infection is now one of the most common and economically important NTDs in the region. A number of other arboviral and zoonotic viral infections have also emerged, including Japanese encephalitis; tick-borne viral infections; Nipah virus, a zoonosis present in fruit bats; and enterovirus 71 infection. There are urgent needs to expand surveillance activities in ASEAN countries, as well as to ensure mass drug administration is provided to populations at risk for intestinal helminth and fluke infections, LF, trachoma, and yaws. An ASEAN Network for Drugs, Diagnostics, Vaccines, and Traditional Medicines Innovation provides a policy framework for the development of new control and elimination tools. Together with prominent research institutions and universities, the World Health Organization (WHO), and its regional offices, these organizations could implement important public health improvements through NTD control and elimination in the coming decade.
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16
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Hosseinzadeh S, Ghalesefidi MJ, Azami M, Mohaghegh MA, Hejazi SH, Ghomashlooyan M. In vitro and in vivo anthelmintic activity of seed extract of Coriandrum sativum compared to Niclosamid against Hymenolepis nana infection. J Parasit Dis 2015; 40:1307-1310. [PMID: 27876936 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-015-0676-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Phytotherapy can be an alternative for the control of gastrointestinal parasites in human and animals. Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) is a medicinal plant which grown as a spice crop all over the world. The seeds of this plant have been used to treat parasitic disease, indigestion, diabetes, rheumatism and pain in the joints. This study was carried out to compare the efficacy of Niclosamid and alcoholic seed extract of C. sativum on Hymenolepis nana infection, in vivo and vitro. For in vivo study, Balb/c mice were used, to compare the efficacy of 50 mg/kg body weight (B.W) of Niclosamid with different doses of alcoholic extracts of C. sativum (250, 500, and 750 mg/kg B.W). It was found that the efficacy of Niclosamid had reached 100 % after 11 days post treatment, while the efficacy of 500 and 750 mg/kg B.W of C. sativum reached to 100 % after 15 days after treatment. For in vitro study, special nutrient broth media was used. It was found that the addition of 1000 mg/ml of Niclosamid had paralyzed and killed worms within 5 min, while C. sativum killed them within 30 min. Our results showed that extract of C. sativum has good effect against H. nana and could be use in traditional medicine for treatment of parasitic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Jamshidian Ghalesefidi
- Biosatistics Department, University of Welfare and Rehabilitation, Tehran, Iran ; Division of Nursing, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Azami
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Mohaghegh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Seyed Hossein Hejazi
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran ; Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohsen Ghomashlooyan
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
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17
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Yang GJ, Utzinger J, Zhou XN. Interplay between environment, agriculture and infectious diseases of poverty: case studies in China. Acta Trop 2015; 141:399-406. [PMID: 23906612 PMCID: PMC7117482 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2013.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Revised: 07/14/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Changes in the natural environment and agricultural systems induced by economic and industrial development, including population dynamics (growth, urbanization, migration), are major causes resulting in the persistence, emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases in developing countries. In the face of rapid demographic, economic and social transformations, the People's Republic of China (P.R. China) is undergoing unprecedented environmental and agricultural change. We review emerging and re-emerging diseases such as schistosomiasis, dengue, avian influenza, angiostrongyliasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis that have occurred in P.R. China due to environmental and agricultural change. This commentary highlights the research priorities and the response strategies, namely mitigation and adaptation, undertaken to eliminate the resurgence of those infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Jing Yang
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi 214064, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory on Control Technology for Parasitic Diseases, Ministry of Health, Wuxi 214064, People's Republic of China; School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Satin, Hong Kong
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, P.O. Box, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory on Biology of Parasite and Vector, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China; WHO Collaborating Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Nakagawa J, Ehrenberg JP, Nealon J, Fürst T, Aratchige P, Gonzales G, Chanthavisouk C, Hernandez LM, Fengthong T, Utzinger J, Steinmann P. Towards effective prevention and control of helminth neglected tropical diseases in the Western Pacific Region through multi-disease and multi-sectoral interventions. Acta Trop 2015; 141:407-18. [PMID: 23792012 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2013.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Revised: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) cause serious health, social and economic burdens in the countries of the World Health Organization Western Pacific Region. Among the NTDs, helminth infections are particularly prominent with regard to the number of infected individuals and health impact. Co-endemicity is common among impoverished and marginalized populations. To achieve effective and sustainable control of helminth NTDs, a deeper understanding of the social-ecological systems governing their endemicity and strategies beyond preventive chemotherapy are required to tackle the multiple causes of infection and re-infection. We discuss the feasibility of implementing multi-disease, multi-sectoral intervention packages for helminth NTDs in the Western Pacific Region. After reviewing the main determinants for helminth NTD endemicity and current control strategies, key control activities that involve or concern other programmes within and beyond the health sector are discussed. A considerable number of activities that have an impact on more than one helminth NTD are identified in a variety of sectors, suggesting an untapped potential for synergies. We also highlight the challenges of multi-sectoral collaboration, particularly of involving non-health sectors. We conclude that multi-sectoral collaboration for helminth NTD control is feasible if the target diseases and sectors are carefully selected. To do so, an incentive analysis covering key stakeholders in the sectors is crucial, and the disease-control strategies need to be well understood. The benefits of multi-disease, multi-sectoral approaches could go beyond immediate health impacts by contributing to sustainable development, raising educational attainment, increasing productivity and reducing health inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Nakagawa
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Division of Combating Communicable Diseases, P.O. Box 2932, 1000 Manila, Philippines
| | - John P Ehrenberg
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Division of Combating Communicable Diseases, P.O. Box 2932, 1000 Manila, Philippines
| | - Joshua Nealon
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Division of Combating Communicable Diseases, P.O. Box 2932, 1000 Manila, Philippines
| | - Thomas Fürst
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, P.O. Box, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Padmasiri Aratchige
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Division of Combating Communicable Diseases, P.O. Box 2932, 1000 Manila, Philippines
| | - Glenda Gonzales
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Division of Combating Communicable Diseases, P.O. Box 2932, 1000 Manila, Philippines
| | - Chitsavang Chanthavisouk
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Division of Combating Communicable Diseases, P.O. Box 2932, 1000 Manila, Philippines
| | - Leda M Hernandez
- Infectious Disease Office, National Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Department of Health, Sta. Cruz, 1000 Manila, Philippines
| | - Tayphasavanh Fengthong
- Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 1232, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, P.O. Box, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter Steinmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, P.O. Box, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland.
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19
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Zhou XN, Olveda R, Sripa B, Yang GJ, Leonardo L, Bergquist R. From gap analysis to solution and action: the RNAS⁺ model. Acta Trop 2015; 141:146-9. [PMID: 23831926 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2013.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Revised: 06/23/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The overall aim of the Regional Network for Asian Schistosomiasis and other Helminth Zoonoses (RNAS(+)) is to strengthen collaboration between control authorities in the regional, endemic countries. The network has provided critical research input during its 12 years of existence developing gradually from a small forum for information exchange. RNAS(+) now provides advice on regional strategies regularly and contributes to the mobilization of resources with respect to multi-country projects on several parasitic diseases in Southeast Asia, primarily schistosomiasis but also other helminth infections including polyparasitism. To make progress towards these goals, RNAS(+) has focused on platform design and technical standardization aiming at fostering research capacity and the development of networking capacities with easy access to information databases. This administrative body is largely virtual connecting RNAS(+) members via the Internet, providing database and administrative back-up. This strategy, aiming at boosting research on the target diseases, strongly emphasizes ways and means to alleviate the spectre of disease and poverty from the endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory on Biology of Parasite and Vector, Ministry of Health, People's Republic of China, WHO Collaborating Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.
| | - Remigio Olveda
- Department of Health, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM), Manila, Philippines
| | - Banchob Sripa
- Tropical Disease Research Laboratory (TDR), Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Guo-Jing Yang
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi 214064, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory on Control Technology for Parasitic Diseases, Ministry of Health, Wuxi 214064, People's Republic of China; School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Jockey Club Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Lydia Leonardo
- College of Public Health, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
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20
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Opisthorchiasis in Northeastern Thailand: Effect of local environment and culture. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF TROPICAL DISEASE 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s2222-1808(15)60866-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Inpankaew T, Schär F, Khieu V, Muth S, Dalsgaard A, Marti H, Traub RJ, Odermatt P. Simple fecal flotation is a superior alternative to guadruple Kato Katz smear examination for the detection of hookworm eggs in human stool. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e3313. [PMID: 25521997 PMCID: PMC4270685 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microscopy-based identification of eggs in stool offers simple, reliable and economical options for assessing the prevalence and intensity of hookworm infections, and for monitoring the success of helminth control programs. This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the diagnostic parameters of the Kato-Katz (KK) and simple sodium nitrate flotation technique (SNF) in terms of detection and quantification of hookworm eggs, with PCR as an additional reference test in stool, collected as part of a baseline cross-sectional study in Cambodia. METHODS/PRINCIPLE FINDINGS Fecal samples collected from 205 people in Dong village, Rovieng district, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia were subjected to KK, SNF and PCR for the detection (and in case of microscopy-based methods, quantification) of hookworm eggs in stool. The prevalence of hookworm detected using a combination of three techniques (gold standard) was 61.0%. PCR displayed a highest sensitivity for hookworm detection (92.0%) followed by SNF (44.0%) and quadruple KK smears (36.0%) compared to the gold standard. The overall eggs per gram feces from SNF tended to be higher than for quadruple KK and the SNF proved superior for detecting low egg burdens. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE As a reference, PCR demonstrated the higher sensitivity compared to SNF and the quadruple KK method for detection of hookworm in human stool. For microscopic-based quantification, a single SNF proved superior to the quadruple KK for the detection of hookworm eggs in stool, in particular for low egg burdens. In addition, the SNF is cost-effective and easily accessible in resource poor countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawin Inpankaew
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- * E-mail:
| | - Fabian Schär
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Virak Khieu
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sinuon Muth
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Anders Dalsgaard
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanspeter Marti
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Medical and Diagnostics Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Odermatt
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Lover AA, Hartman M, Chia KS, Heymann DL. Demographic and spatial predictors of anemia in women of reproductive age in Timor-Leste: implications for health program prioritization. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91252. [PMID: 24632676 PMCID: PMC3954687 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Anemia is a significant risk factor for poor health outcomes for both the mother and neonate; however, the determinants of anemia in many epidemiological settings are poorly understood. Using a subset of a nationally representative cluster survey (2010 Demographic and Health Survey) in combination with other non-contemporaneous survey data, the epidemiology of anemia among women of reproductive age in Timor-Leste has been explored. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors, population-level impacts were estimated as population attributable fractions and spatial analytics were used to identify regions of highest risk. The DHS survey found that ∼21% of adult women in Timor-Leste are anemic (49,053; 95% CI: 37,095 to 61,035), with hemoglobin <12.0 g/dL. In this population, the main risk factors (adjusted odds ratio; 95% CI) are: currently abstaining from sex for any reason (2.25; 1.50 to 3.38); illiteracy (2.04; 1.49 to 2.80); giving birth within the previous year (1.80; 1.29 to 2.51); consumption of fruits/vegetables low in vitamin A (1.57; 1.13 to 2.20); and the district-level confirmed malaria incidence (1.31; 1.15 to 1.49). A review of prior soil-transmitted helminth surveys in Timor-Leste indicates low-to-moderate prevalence with generally low egg counts, suggesting a limited impact on anemia in this setting, although comprehensive survey data are lacking. Examination of the population-level effects highlights the impacts of both recent births and malaria on anemia, with more limited impacts from diet; the evidence does not suggest a large contribution from geohelminths within Timor-Leste. These patterns are divergent from some other settings in the Asia-Pacific region and highlight the need for further focused research. Targeting high-burden districts and by increasing access to pre/postnatal care, raising literacy levels, increasing access to family planning, and improving malaria control should be prioritized to maximize inherently limited health budgets in reaching these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A. Lover
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, The National University of Singapore, Singapore
- * E-mail:
| | - Mikael Hartman
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, The National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Surgery, The National University Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kee Seng Chia
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, The National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - David L. Heymann
- Public Health England, Department of Health, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To highlight the gastrointestinal helminths in the context of renewed global commitment to control or eliminate neglected tropical diseases in the coming decade. RECENT FINDINGS Two key documents, namely the 2012 London Declaration for Neglected Tropical Diseases and the 2013 World Health Assembly resolution, emphasize the importance of mass drug administration (MDA) for controlling several key neglected tropical diseases. These documents, together with the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010, establish the major gastrointestinal helminth infections, including the soil-transmitted helminthiases - ascariasis, trichuriasis, hookworm, and strongyloidiasis - in addition to the intestinal and liver fluke infections, as some of the most important gastrointestinal infections of humankind. Current MDA approaches using single-dose albendazole or mebendazole are effective for ascariasis, less so for other soil-transmitted helminth infections. Expanded use of albendazole in combination with ivermectin would ensure improved drug efficacies against trichuriasis and strongyloidiasis. There is no effective elimination strategy for targeting hookworm and liver and intestinal fluke infections through current MDA approaches. SUMMARY The global community must expand current MDA efforts, while simultaneously developing additional drugs, diagnostics, and vaccines alongside better utilizing transmission dynamics and modeling, if it is to successfully meet the goals and targets established by policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hotez
- Department of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology and Microbiology, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PH); , (XNZ)
| | - Sunit K. Singh
- Laboratory of Neurovirology and Inflammation Biology, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Hyderabad, India
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (PH); , (XNZ)
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25
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Balen J, Liu ZC, McManus DP, Raso G, Utzinger J, Xiao SY, Yu DB, Zhao ZY, Li YS. Health access livelihood framework reveals potential barriers in the control of schistosomiasis in the Dongting Lake area of Hunan Province, China. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2350. [PMID: 23936580 PMCID: PMC3731233 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Accepted: 06/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Access to health care is a major requirement in improving health and fostering socioeconomic development. In the People's Republic of China (P.R. China), considerable changes have occurred in the social, economic, and health systems with a shift from a centrally planned to a socialist market economy. This brought about great benefits and new challenges, particularly for vertical disease control programs, including schistosomiasis. We explored systemic barriers in access to equitable and effective control of schistosomiasis. Methodology Between August 2002 and February 2003, 66 interviews with staff from anti-schistosomiasis control stations and six focus group discussions with health personnel were conducted in the Dongting Lake area, Hunan Province. Additionally, 79 patients with advanced schistosomiasis japonica were interviewed. The health access livelihood framework was utilized to examine availability, accessibility, affordability, adequacy, and acceptability of schistosomiasis-related health care. Principal Findings We found sufficient availability of infrastructure and human resources at most control stations. Many patients with advanced schistosomiasis resided in non-endemic or moderately endemic areas, however, with poor accessibility to disease-specific knowledge and specialized health services. Moreover, none of the patients interviewed had any form of health insurance, resulting in high out-of-pocket expenditure or unaffordable care. Reports on the adequacy and acceptability of care were mixed. Conclusions/Significance There is a need to strengthen health awareness and schistosomiasis surveillance in post-transmission control settings, as well as to reduce diagnostic and treatment costs. Further studies are needed to gain a multi-layered, in-depth understanding of remaining barriers, so that the ultimate goal of schistosomiasis elimination in P.R. China can be reached. China has made great strides toward reducing the burden of schistosomiasis, facilitated by sustained political commitment and a multi-faceted, integrated control strategy. The ultimate goal is disease elimination, which might be challenging due to high rates of re-infection, clusters of re-emergence, and growing health disparities. Market-oriented reforms and system-wide policies within the health care system offer new opportunities, but also entail challenges for the national schistosomiasis control program. Few studies have examined systemic barriers to equitable and effective schistosomiasis control in China. We explored the five core dimensions of access to health care, placing emphasis on schistosomiasis in the Dongting Lake area of Hunan Province. We collected and analyzed perspectives from staff working at local anti-schistosomiasis control stations and designated schistosomiasis hospitals, and from patients with advanced schistosomiasis. Our data suggest that a lack of affordability and high out-of-pocket expenditure posed a major barrier to the health care users, as did a lack of relevant health-information, and poorly accessible diagnostic and specialized surgical services. The lessons learned from this work are important in the design and development of disease control programs and entail key policy implications for schistosomiasis elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Balen
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Division of Infectious Diseases, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Australia.
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26
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Yap P, Du ZW, Wu FW, Jiang JY, Chen R, Zhou XN, Hattendorf J, Utzinger J, Steinmann P. Rapid re-infection with soil-transmitted helminths after triple-dose albendazole treatment of school-aged children in Yunnan, People's Republic of China. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2013; 89:23-31. [PMID: 23690551 PMCID: PMC3748482 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.13-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-treatment soil-transmitted helminth re-infection patterns were studied as part of a randomized controlled trial among school-aged children from an ethnic minority group in Yunnan province, People's Republic of China. Children with a soil-transmitted helminth infection (N = 194) were randomly assigned to triple-dose albendazole or placebo and their infection status monitored over a 6-month period using the Kato-Katz and Baermann techniques. Baseline prevalence of Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm, and Strongyloides stercoralis were 94.5%, 93.3%, 61.3%, and 3.1%, respectively, with more than half of the participants harboring triple-species infections. For the intervention group (N = 99), the 1-month post-treatment cure rates were 96.7%, 91.5%, and 19.6% for hookworm, A. lumbricoides, and T. trichiura, respectively. Egg reduction rates were above 88% for all three species. Rapid re-infection with A. lumbricoides was observed: the prevalence 4 and 6 months post-treatment was 75.8% and 83.8%, respectively. Re-infection with hookworm and T. trichiura was considerably slower.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Peter Steinmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Helminthiasis Division, Yunnan Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Pu'er, People's Republic of China; Menghai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Menghai, People's Republic of China; National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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27
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Lv S, Tian LG, Liu Q, Qian MB, Fu Q, Steinmann P, Chen JX, Yang GJ, Yang K, Zhou XN. Water-related parasitic diseases in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:1977-2016. [PMID: 23685826 PMCID: PMC3709360 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10051977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2013] [Revised: 05/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Water-related parasitic diseases are directly dependent on water bodies for their spread or as a habitat for indispensable intermediate or final hosts. Along with socioeconomic development and improvement of sanitation, overall prevalence is declining in the China. However, the heterogeneity in economic development and the inequity of access to public services result in considerable burden due to parasitic diseases in certain areas and populations across the country. In this review, we demonstrated three aspects of ten major water-related parasitic diseases, i.e., the biology and pathogenicity, epidemiology and recent advances in research in China. General measures for diseases control and special control strategies are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Lv
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, China; E-Mails: (S.L.); (L.-G.T.); (Q.L.); (M.-B.Q.); (Q.F.); (P.S.); (J.-X.C.)
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Li-Guang Tian
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, China; E-Mails: (S.L.); (L.-G.T.); (Q.L.); (M.-B.Q.); (Q.F.); (P.S.); (J.-X.C.)
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qin Liu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, China; E-Mails: (S.L.); (L.-G.T.); (Q.L.); (M.-B.Q.); (Q.F.); (P.S.); (J.-X.C.)
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Men-Bao Qian
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, China; E-Mails: (S.L.); (L.-G.T.); (Q.L.); (M.-B.Q.); (Q.F.); (P.S.); (J.-X.C.)
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qing Fu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, China; E-Mails: (S.L.); (L.-G.T.); (Q.L.); (M.-B.Q.); (Q.F.); (P.S.); (J.-X.C.)
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Peter Steinmann
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, China; E-Mails: (S.L.); (L.-G.T.); (Q.L.); (M.-B.Q.); (Q.F.); (P.S.); (J.-X.C.)
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, University of Basel, Basel 4051, Switzerland
| | - Jia-Xu Chen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, China; E-Mails: (S.L.); (L.-G.T.); (Q.L.); (M.-B.Q.); (Q.F.); (P.S.); (J.-X.C.)
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Guo-Jing Yang
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi 214064, China; E-Mails: (G.-J.Y.); (K.Y.)
- School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Jockey Club Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Kun Yang
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi 214064, China; E-Mails: (G.-J.Y.); (K.Y.)
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, China; E-Mails: (S.L.); (L.-G.T.); (Q.L.); (M.-B.Q.); (Q.F.); (P.S.); (J.-X.C.)
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Shanghai 200025, China
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Kline K, McCarthy JS, Pearson M, Loukas A, Hotez PJ. Neglected tropical diseases of Oceania: review of their prevalence, distribution, and opportunities for control. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e1755. [PMID: 23383349 PMCID: PMC3561157 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Among Oceania's population of 35 million people, the greatest number living in poverty currently live in Papua New Guinea (PNG), Fiji, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands. These impoverished populations are at high risk for selected NTDs, including Necator americanus hookworm infection, strongyloidiasis, lymphatic filariasis (LF), balantidiasis, yaws, trachoma, leprosy, and scabies, in addition to outbreaks of dengue and other arboviral infections including Japanese encephalitis virus infection. PNG stands out for having the largest number of cases and highest prevalence for most of these NTDs. However, Australia's Aboriginal population also suffers from a range of significant NTDs. Through the Pacific Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis, enormous strides have been made in eliminating LF in Oceania through programs of mass drug administration (MDA), although LF remains widespread in PNG. There are opportunities to scale up MDA for PNG's major NTDs, which could be accomplished through an integrated package that combines albendazole, ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, and azithromycin, in a program of national control. Australia's Aboriginal population may benefit from appropriately integrated MDA into primary health care systems. Several emerging viral NTDs remain important threats to the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Kline
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital-Baylor College of Medicine Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - James S. McCarthy
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Laboratory, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Mark Pearson
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter J. Hotez
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital-Baylor College of Medicine Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, United States of America
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Nasr NA, Al-Mekhlafi HM, Ahmed A, Roslan MA, Bulgiba A. Towards an effective control programme of soil-transmitted helminth infections among Orang Asli in rural Malaysia. Part 1: prevalence and associated key factors. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:27. [PMID: 23356952 PMCID: PMC3564908 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the continuous efforts to improve the quality of life of Orang Asli (Aborigines) communities, these communities are still plagued with a wide range of health problems including parasitic infections. The first part of this study aimed at determining the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections and identifying their associated factors among rural Orang Asli children. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out among 484 Orang Asli children aged ≤ 15 years (235 females and 249 males) belonging to 215 households from 13 villages in Lipis district, Pahang, Malaysia. Faecal samples were collected and examined by using formalin-ether sedimentation, Kato Katz and Harada Mori techniques. Demographic, socioeconomic, environmental and behavioural information were collected by using a pre-tested questionnaire. Results Overall, 78.1% of the children were found to be infected with one or more STH species. The prevalence of trichuriasis, ascariasis and hookworm infections were 71.7%, 37.4% and 17.6%, respectively. Almost all, three quarters and one fifth of trichuriasis, ascariasis and hookworm infections, respectively, were of moderate-to-heavy intensities. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age of ≥ 6 years (school-age), using unsafe water supply as a source for drinking water, absence of a toilet in the house, large family size (≥ 7 members), not washing hands before eating, and not washing hands after defecation were the key factors significantly associated with STH among these children. Conclusion This study reveals an alarmingly high prevalence of STH among Orang Asli children and clearly brings out an urgent need to implement school-based de-worming programmes and other control measures like providing a proper sanitation, as well as a treated drinking water supply and proper health education regarding good personal hygiene practices. Such an integrated control program will help significantly in reducing the prevalence and intensity of STH in Orang Asli communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil A Nasr
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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30
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Zhou XN, Bergquist R, Tanner M. Elimination of tropical disease through surveillance and response. Infect Dis Poverty 2013; 2:1. [PMID: 23849433 PMCID: PMC3707090 DOI: 10.1186/2049-9957-2-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Surveillance and response represent the final crucial steps in achieving effective control and particularly elimination of communicable diseases as recognized in the area of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), applied in increasing numbers in endemic countries with ongoing control and elimination programmers. More and more national NTD elimination initiatives are scheduled based on the innovative and effective One world-One health perspective to detect pockets of transmission and disease reintroduction. Resource-constrained countries, which carry the heaviest NTD burdens, face various challenges how to strengthen the health system as well as developing effective and novel tools for surveillance and response tailored to local settings. Surveillance-response approaches take place in two different stages corralling the basic components of the surveillance-response system for NTD elimination. Six different research priorities have been identified:1)dynamic mapping of transmission, 2) near real-time capture of population dynamics, 3) modelling based on a minimum essential database/dataset, 4) implementation of mobile health (m-health) and sensitive diagnostics, 5) design of effective response packages tailored to different transmission settings and levels, and 6) validation of approaches and responses packages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200025, People’s Republic of China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, 200025, People’s Republic of China
| | | | - Marcel Tanner
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box, Basel, CH-4002, Switzerland
- University of Basel, P.O. Box, Basel, CH-4003, Switzerland
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31
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Hotez
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Department of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Verifying elimination programs with a special emphasis on cysticercosis endpoints and postelimination surveillance. J Parasitol Res 2012; 2012:974950. [PMID: 23213490 PMCID: PMC3505642 DOI: 10.1155/2012/974950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2012] [Accepted: 09/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Methods are needed for determining program endpoints or postprogram surveillance for any elimination program. Cysticercosis has the necessary effective strategies and diagnostic tools for establishing an elimination program; however, tools to verify program endpoints have not been determined. Using a statistical approach, the present study proposed that taeniasis and porcine cysticercosis antibody assays could be used to determine with a high statistical confidence whether an area is free of disease. Confidence would be improved by using secondary tests such as the taeniasis coproantigen assay and necropsy of the sentinel pigs.
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Prioritizing research for "One health - One world". Infect Dis Poverty 2012; 1:1. [PMID: 23849840 PMCID: PMC3710101 DOI: 10.1186/2049-9957-1-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases of poverty, a collective term coined for infections known to be particularly prevalent amongst poor populations, is increasingly used for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) with special transmission routes, such as depending on vectors and/or intermediate hosts. The journal Infectious Diseases of Poverty (IDP) is launched to explore new avenues in research to better understand the relationship between infectious diseases and poverty, and to contribute to priority settings for plans to control them. Introducing the “One health - One world” concept, IDP will publish original and empirical work based on analyses of disease burdens, their distribution and research needs in this area. The new journal will not only bring out research articles but also scoping reviews and highlights of trans-disciplinary work undertaken to combat the infectious diseases of poverty, wherever in the world they exist.
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Hotez PJ, Asojo OA, Adesina AM. Nigeria: "Ground Zero" for the high prevalence neglected tropical diseases. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1600. [PMID: 22860138 PMCID: PMC3409117 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Hotez
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Departments of Pediatrics (Section of Pediatric Tropical Medicine) and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Oluwatoyin A. Asojo
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Adekunle M. Adesina
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
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Conlan JV, Khamlome B, Vongxay K, Elliot A, Pallant L, Sripa B, Blacksell SD, Fenwick S, Thompson RCA. Soil-transmitted helminthiasis in Laos: a community-wide cross-sectional study of humans and dogs in a mass drug administration environment. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2012; 86:624-34. [PMID: 22492147 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2012.11-0413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
We conducted a community cross-sectional survey of soil-transmitted helminthiasis in humans and dogs in four provinces in northern Laos. We collected and tested human and dog fecal samples and analyzed results against sociodemographic data. The prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, hookworm, and Strongyloides stercoralis was 26.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 23.7-28.4%), 41.5% (95% CI = 38.8-44.1%), 46.3% (95% CI = 43.3-49.0%), and 8.9% (95% CI = 7.4-10.4%), respectively. We observed strong heterogeneity for helminthiasis by ethnicity, province, and wealth status, which coincided with a risk profile demonstrating that Mon-Khmer persons and the poorest households are highly vulnerable. Necator americanus was the dominant hookworm species infecting humans and Ancylostoma ceylanicum was the only Ancylostoma species detected. Hookworm prevalence in village dogs was 94%, and the dominant species was A. ceylanicum. Necator americanus was also detected in dogs. It appears that dogs have a role in human hookworm transmission and warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James V Conlan
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürg Utzinger
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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Hotez PJ, Savioli L, Fenwick A. Neglected tropical diseases of the Middle East and North Africa: review of their prevalence, distribution, and opportunities for control. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1475. [PMID: 22389729 PMCID: PMC3289601 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are highly endemic but patchily distributed among the 20 countries and almost 400 million people of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and disproportionately affect an estimated 65 million people living on less than US$2 per day. Egypt has the largest number of people living in poverty of any MENA nation, while Yemen has the highest prevalence of people living in poverty. These two nations stand out for having suffered the highest rates of many NTDs, including the soil-transmitted nematode infections, filarial infections, schistosomiasis, fascioliasis, leprosy, and trachoma, although they should be recognized for recent measures aimed at NTD control. Leishmaniasis, especially cutaneous leishmaniasis, is endemic in Syria, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Morocco, and elsewhere in the region. Both zoonotic (Leishmania major) and anthroponotic (Leishmania tropica) forms are endemic in MENA in rural arid regions and urban regions, respectively. Other endemic zoonotic NTDs include cystic echinococcosis, fascioliasis, and brucellosis. Dengue is endemic in Saudi Arabia, where Rift Valley fever and Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever have also emerged. Great strides have been made towards elimination of several endemic NTDs, including lymphatic filariasis in Egypt and Yemen; schistosomiasis in Iran, Morocco, and Oman; and trachoma in Morocco, Algeria, Iran, Libya, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and the United Arab Emirates. A particularly noteworthy achievement is the long battle waged against schistosomiasis in Egypt, where prevalence has been brought down by regular praziquantel treatment. Conflict and human and animal migrations are key social determinants in preventing the control or elimination of NTDs in the MENA, while local political will, strengthened international and intersectoral cooperative efforts for surveillance, mass drug administration, and vaccination are essential for elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Hotez
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PJH); (AF)
| | - Lorenzo Savioli
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alan Fenwick
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative and Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, St. Mary's Campus, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (PJH); (AF)
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Chandy A, Thakur AS, Singh MP, Manigauha A. A review of neglected tropical diseases: filariasis. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2012; 4:581-6. [PMID: 21803313 DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(11)60150-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2011] [Revised: 04/11/2011] [Accepted: 06/15/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Filariasis is result of parasitic infection caused by three specific kinds of round worm. Lymphatic filariasis is found in under developed region of South America, Central Africa, pacific and Caribbian. It has been found for centuries, with main symptoms as elephant like swelling of the arms, legs and genitals. It is estimate that 120 millions peoples in the world have lymphatic filariasis. The spread of diseases and the challenge encountered in its management are discussed along with a review on drugs against filariasis in this article. Detail on clinical effect of drugs on the infection, safety profile, status in clinical practices and drug resistances are also covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anish Chandy
- School of Pharmacy, Chouksey Engineering College, Bilaspur, Chattishgarh, India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Hotez
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PJH); (SA)
| | - Serap Aksoy
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
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Qian MB, Chen YD, Fang YY, Xu LQ, Zhu TJ, Tan T, Zhou CH, Wang GF, Jia TW, Yang GJ, Zhou XN. Disability weight of Clonorchis sinensis infection: captured from community study and model simulation. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1377. [PMID: 22180791 PMCID: PMC3236727 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2010] [Accepted: 09/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clonorchiasis is among the most neglected tropical diseases. It is caused by ingesting raw or undercooked fish or shrimp containing the larval of Clonorchis sinensis and mainly endemic in Southeast Asia including China, Korea and Vietnam. The global estimations for population at risk and infected are 601 million and 35 million, respectively. However, it is still not listed among the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) and no disability weight is available for it. Disability weight reflects the average degree of loss of life value due to certain chronic disease condition and ranges between 0 (complete health) and 1 (death). It is crucial parameter for calculating the morbidity part of any disease burden in terms of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS According to the probability and disability weight of single sequelae caused by C. sinensis infection, the overall disability weight could be captured through Monte Carlo simulation. The probability of single sequelae was gained from one community investigation, while the corresponding disability weight was searched from the literatures in evidence-based approach. The overall disability weights of the male and female were 0.101 and 0.050, respectively. The overall disability weights of the age group of 5-14, 15-29, 30-44, 45-59 and 60+ were 0.022, 0.052, 0.072, 0.094 and 0.118, respectively. There was some evidence showing that the disability weight and geometric mean of eggs per gram of feces (GMEPG) fitted a logarithmic equation. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE The overall disability weights of C. sinensis infection are differential in different sex and age groups. The disability weight captured here may be referred for estimating the disease burden of C. sinensis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Men-Bao Qian
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborative Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Dan Chen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborative Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue-Yi Fang
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Long-Qi Xu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborative Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting-Jun Zhu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborative Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Tan Tan
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Shunde District, Shunde, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang-Hai Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborative Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo-Fei Wang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborative Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Tie-Wu Jia
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborative Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo-Jing Yang
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborative Center for Malaria, Schistosomiasis and Filariasis, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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Lobo DA, Velayudhan R, Chatterjee P, Kohli H, Hotez PJ. The neglected tropical diseases of India and South Asia: review of their prevalence, distribution, and control or elimination. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1222. [PMID: 22039553 PMCID: PMC3201909 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Derek A. Lobo
- Department of Public Health, Manipal University (Retired – WHO-South-East Asia Regional Office), Mangalore, India
| | - Raman Velayudhan
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Priya Chatterjee
- George Washington University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Harajeshwar Kohli
- George Washington University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Peter J. Hotez
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Center for Vaccine Development, and the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Marchal B, Van Dormael M, Pirard M, Cavalli A, Kegels G, Polman K. Neglected tropical disease (NTD) control in health systems: the interface between programmes and general health services. Acta Trop 2011; 120 Suppl 1:S177-85. [PMID: 21439930 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2011.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2010] [Revised: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 02/28/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Disease control programmes are an intrinsic part of health systems. Neglected tropical disease (NTD) control is a clear case in point. While there is a growing consensus that NTD control and health services are linked, with important mutual impacts, little is known of what actually happens at the interface between the two entities. Here, we review the rationale, viewpoints and experiences of NTD control programmes regarding general health services, and vice versa, and compare their respective arguments. We discuss the interactions and interface between disease control and health systems, and present possible scenarios for health system strengthening by NTD- and other disease-specific programmes. Focusing on countries in sub-Saharan Africa, we suggest a number of principles that could pave the way for fruitful discussions and development of synergies.
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43
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Hotez
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ken Alibek
- Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
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44
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Risk factors for helminth infections in a rural and a peri-urban setting of the Dongting Lake area, People's Republic of China. Int J Parasitol 2011; 41:1165-73. [PMID: 21854780 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2011.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2010] [Revised: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 07/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis japonica and soil-transmitted helminthiasis are endemic parasitic diseases in the People's Republic of China (PR China). As very few studies have reported on the distribution and interaction of multiple species helminth infections, we carried out a comparative study of households in a rural village and a peri-urban setting in the Dongting Lake area of Hunan province in November and December 2006 to determine the extent of single and multiple species infections, the underlying risk factors for infection, and the relationships with clinical manifestations and self-reported morbidity. In each household, stool samples were collected and subjected to the Kato-Katz method for identifying Schistosoma japonicum, Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm and Trichuris trichiura infections. Clinical examinations were performed and questionnaire surveys conducted at both household and individual subject levels. Complete parasitological, clinical and questionnaire data were obtained for 1,298 inhabitants of the two settings. The overall prevalences of single infections of S. japonicum, A. lumbricoides, hookworm and T. trichiura were 6.5%, 5.5%, 3.0% and 0.8%, respectively; the majority of the infections were of light intensity. We found significant negative associations between wealth and infections with S. japonicum and A. lumbricoides. Clinical manifestations of splenomegaly, hepatomegaly and anaemia were prevalent (9.0%, 3.7% and 10.9%, respectively), the latter two being significantly (P<0.05) associated with schistosomiasis. Self-reported symptoms were more common among females but there was considerable under-reporting in both sexes when relying only on spontaneous recall. Our findings may guide the design and targeting of a more equitable, comprehensive and integrated parasitic disease control programme in Hunan province and in other areas of PR China.
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45
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Bethony JM, Cole RN, Guo X, Kamhawi S, Lightowlers MW, Loukas A, Petri W, Reed S, Valenzuela JG, Hotez PJ. Vaccines to combat the neglected tropical diseases. Immunol Rev 2011; 239:237-70. [PMID: 21198676 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-065x.2010.00976.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) represent a group of parasitic and related infectious diseases such as amebiasis, Chagas disease, cysticercosis, echinococcosis, hookworm, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis. Together, these conditions are considered the most common infections in low- and middle-income countries, where they produce a level of global disability and human suffering equivalent to better known conditions such as human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and malaria. Despite their global public health importance, progress on developing vaccines for NTD pathogens has lagged because of some key technical hurdles and the fact that these infections occur almost exclusively in the world's poorest people living below the World Bank poverty line. In the absence of financial incentives for new products, the multinational pharmaceutical companies have not embarked on substantive research and development programs for the neglected tropical disease vaccines. Here, we review the current status of scientific and technical progress in the development of new neglected tropical disease vaccines, highlighting the successes that have been achieved (cysticercosis and echinococcosis) and identifying the challenges and opportunities for development of new vaccines for NTDs. Also highlighted are the contributions being made by non-profit product development partnerships that are working to overcome some of the economic challenges in vaccine manufacture, clinical testing, and global access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Bethony
- Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
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Conlan JV, Sripa B, Attwood S, Newton PN. A review of parasitic zoonoses in a changing Southeast Asia. Vet Parasitol 2011; 182:22-40. [PMID: 21846580 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic zoonoses are common and widely distributed in the Southeast Asian region. However, the interactions between parasites, hosts and vectors are influenced by environmental, socio-cultural and livestock production changes that impact on the distribution, prevalence and severity of disease. In this review we provide an update on new knowledge in the context of ongoing changes for the food-borne pig associated zoonoses Taenia solium and Trichinella spp., the food-borne trematodes Opisthorchis viverrini and Clonorchis sinensis, the water-borne trematodes Schistosoma spp., the vector-borne zoonotic protozoa Plasmodium knowlesi and Leishmania spp. and the soil-borne zoonotic hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum. These various changes need to be considered when assessing or developing regional control programs or devising new research initiatives in a changing SE Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- James V Conlan
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, WA, Australia.
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47
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Hotez PJ. Unleashing "civilian power": a new American diplomacy through neglected tropical disease control, elimination, research, and development. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1134. [PMID: 21738802 PMCID: PMC3125138 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Hotez
- Sabin Vaccine Institute – Texas Children's Hospital – Baylor College of Medicine Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Sayasone S, Mak TK, Vanmany M, Rasphone O, Vounatsou P, Utzinger J, Akkhavong K, Odermatt P. Helminth and intestinal protozoa infections, multiparasitism and risk factors in Champasack province, Lao People's Democratic Republic. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1037. [PMID: 21532735 PMCID: PMC3075221 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2009] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Detailed investigations of multiparasitism are scarce in the Mekong River basin. We assessed helminth (trematode, nematode, and cestode), and intestinal protozoa infections, and multiparasitism in random population samples from three different eco-epidemiological settings in Champasack province, southern Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), and determined underlying risk factors. METHODOLOGY Two stool samples were collected from 669 individuals aged ≥ 6 months over consecutive days and examined for helminth infections using the Kato-Katz method. Additionally, one stool sample per person was subjected to a formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique for diagnosis of helminth and intestinal protozoa infections. Questionnaires were administered to obtain individual and household-level data pertaining to behavior, demography and socioeconomic status. Risk factors for hepato-biliary and intestinal parasitic infections and multiparasitism were determined using multiple logistic regressions analyses. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS MULTIPLE SPECIES INTESTINAL PARASITE INFECTIONS WERE COMMON: 86.6% of the study participants harbored at least two and up to seven different parasites concurrently. Regarding nematode infections, hookworm was the most prevalent species (76.8%), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (31.7%) and Trichuris trichiura (25.0%). Regarding trematodes, Opisthorchis viverrini and Schistosoma mekongi infections were found in 64.3% and 24.2% of the participants, respectively. Infections with intestinal protozoa were rare. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE There is a pressing need to intensify and sustain helminth control interventions in the southern part of Lao PDR. Given the high prevalence with nematode and trematode infections and the extent of multiparasitism, preventive chemotherapy is warranted. This intervention should be coupled with health education and improved access to clean water and adequate sanitation to consolidate morbidity control and enhance sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somphou Sayasone
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tippi K. Mak
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Monely Vanmany
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Oroth Rasphone
- Department of Radiology, Mahosot Hospital, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Penelope Vounatsou
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kongsap Akkhavong
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Peter Odermatt
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Jex AR, Lim YA, M. Bethony J, Hotez PJ, Young ND, Gasser RB. Soil-transmitted helminths of humans in Southeast Asia--towards integrated control. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2011; 74:231-65. [PMID: 21295679 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-385897-9.00004-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) pose significant public health challenges in many countries of Southeast Asia (SEA). Overall, approximately one-third of the world's cases of ascariasis, trichuriasis, and hookworm disease occur in the 11 major SEA countries. Various countries are at different stages in their response to controlling these diseases. For instance, in Malaysia and Thailand, the major burden of disease is confined to rural/remote, indigenous and/or refugee populations. In countries, such as Cambodia, Lao People's Democratic Republic and Vietnam, the burden remains high, although extensive deworming programmes are underway and are yielding encouraging results. The present chapter reviews the current status of STH infections in SEA, identifies knowledge gaps and offers a perspective on the development of improved, integrated surveillance and control in this geographical region. It indicates that advances in our understanding of the epidemiology of these parasites, through the strategic use of molecular and predictive (e.g. geographical information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS)) technologies, could readily underpin future research and control programmes. It is hoped that the gradual move towards integrated treatment/control programmes will assist substantially in decreasing the chronic disease burden linked to STHs, thus increasing human health and welfare, and supporting socio-economic growth and development in SEA countries.
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50
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Acka CA, Raso G, N'Goran EK, Tschannen AB, Bogoch II, Séraphin E, Tanner M, Obrist B, Utzinger J. Parasitic worms: knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Western Côte d'Ivoire with implications for integrated control. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2010; 4:e910. [PMID: 21200423 PMCID: PMC3006135 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0000910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 11/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the developing world where parasitic worm infections are pervasive, preventive chemotherapy is the key strategy for morbidity control. However, local knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of parasitic worms are poorly understood, although such information is required for prevention and sustainable control. Methods We carried out KAP surveys in two rural communities of Côte d'Ivoire that were subjected to school-based and community-based research and control activities. We used qualitative and quantitative methods. The former included observations, in-depth interviews with key informants, and focus group discussions with school children and adults. Quantitative methods consisted of a structured questionnaire administered to household heads. Principal Findings Access to clean water was lacking in both communities and only a quarter of the households had functioning latrines. There was a better understanding of soil-transmitted helminthiasis than intestinal schistosomiasis, but community-based rather than school-based interventions appeared to improve knowledge of schistosomiasis. In the villages with community-based interventions, three-quarters of household interviewees knew about intestinal schistosomiasis compared to 14% in the village where school-based interventions were implemented (P<0.001). Whereas two-thirds of respondents from the community-based intervention village indicated that the research and control project was the main source of information, only a quarter of the respondents cited the project as the main source. Conclusions/Significance Preventive chemotherapy targeting school-aged children has limitations, as older population segments are neglected, and hence lack knowledge about how to prevent and control parasitic worm infections. Improved access to clean water and sanitation is necessary, along with health education to make a durable impact against helminth infections. There is a need to better understand communities' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of neglected tropical diseases to improve prevention and control efforts. We studied the socio-cultural aspects of parasitic worm infections in two villages (Mélapleu and Zouatta II) of western Côte d'Ivoire, where research and control activities have been implemented. Zouatta II was exposed to a community-based approach, while school-based interventions were implemented in Mélapleu. KAP surveys were carried out using qualitative and quantitative methods. Although there was some knowledge of parasitic worm infections in both villages, we found important differences between the two villages regarding intestinal schistosomiasis: there was a better understanding of this disease in Zouatta II. However, even the community-based research and control efforts implemented in Zouatta II were ineffective in transforming the information conveyed into preventive behavior related to water contact. Our results suggest that KAP of parasitic worm infections conveyed by research and control activities targeting only school-aged children have shortcomings as older population groups are left out. Hence, for effective control of parasitic worms, children and adults must be educated and interventions should include access to deworming drugs, clean water and sanitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinthia A. Acka
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche (UFR) Sciences Sociales, Université de Cocody-Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
- Département Environnement et Santé, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Giovanna Raso
- Département Environnement et Santé, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eliézer K. N'Goran
- Département Environnement et Santé, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche (UFR) Biosciences, Université de Cocody-Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Andres B. Tschannen
- Département Environnement et Santé, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Isaac I. Bogoch
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Essane Séraphin
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche (UFR) Sciences Sociales, Université de Cocody-Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Marcel Tanner
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Brigit Obrist
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Social Anthropology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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