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Toyin-Thomas P, Wariri O, Ikhurionan P. Harnessing peer mentorship as a tool to turn human resource for health brain drain into brain gain: a case study of a Nigerian peer-mentored research group. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2024; 22:46. [PMID: 38937753 PMCID: PMC11212419 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-024-00932-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peer mentorship can be a potential tool to reduce the disparities in health research capacity between high- and low- and middle-income countries. This case study describes the potential of peer mentorship to tackle two critical issues: bridging health research capacity of doctors from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and the transformation of human resource for health brain drain into "brain gain". CASE PRESENTATION In 2021, a virtual peer mentorship group was established by 16 alumni of the University of Benin College of Medical Sciences' 2008 graduating class, residing across three continents. This program aimed to facilitate research collaboration and skill development among colleagues with diverse research experience levels, fostering a supportive environment for career development in research. The group relied heavily on digital technology to carry out its activities due to the different geographical locations of the group members. Led by experienced peer leaders, the group fostered a collaborative learning environment where members leveraged each other's expertise. Within 18 months, we published two research papers in high-impact peer-reviewed global health journals, launched a mixed-methods research study, and conducted training sessions on research design and implementation. Findings from our work were presented at conferences and workshops. However, logistical hurdles, competing priorities, structural constraints, and uneven participation presented challenges. CONCLUSION The peer mentorship collaboration has achieved some successes so far, and this model can be emulated by other cohorts of medical professionals across LMICs. Despite the group's success at a micro- or individual level, there remain significant structural barriers to research capacity building in LMICs that can only be addressed at the meso- and macro-levels by institutions and government, respectively. A systems-level approach is required to develop and support research capacity building and foster global research collaboration and effectively turn brain drain into brain gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patience Toyin-Thomas
- The Department of Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, United States of America.
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Lebanon, NH, United States of America.
| | - Oghenebrume Wariri
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
- Vaccines and Immunity Theme, Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia.
| | - Paul Ikhurionan
- Department of Child Health, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin, Nigeria
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Ofori SK, Dankwa EA, Estrada EH, Hua X, Kimani TN, Wade CG, Buckee CO, Murray MB, Hedt-Gauthier BL. COVID-19 vaccination strategies in Africa: A scoping review of the use of mathematical models to inform policy. Trop Med Int Health 2024; 29:466-476. [PMID: 38740040 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mathematical models are vital tools to understand transmission dynamics and assess the impact of interventions to mitigate COVID-19. However, historically, their use in Africa has been limited. In this scoping review, we assess how mathematical models were used to study COVID-19 vaccination to potentially inform pandemic planning and response in Africa. METHODS We searched six electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Global Health, MathSciNet and Africa-Wide NiPAD, using keywords to identify articles focused on the use of mathematical modelling studies of COVID-19 vaccination in Africa that were published as of October 2022. We extracted the details on the country, author affiliation, characteristics of models, policy intent and heterogeneity factors. We assessed quality using 21-point scale criteria on model characteristics and content of the studies. RESULTS The literature search yielded 462 articles, of which 32 were included based on the eligibility criteria. Nineteen (59%) studies had a first author affiliated with an African country. Of the 32 included studies, 30 (94%) were compartmental models. By country, most studies were about or included South Africa (n = 12, 37%), followed by Morocco (n = 6, 19%) and Ethiopia (n = 5, 16%). Most studies (n = 19, 59%) assessed the impact of increasing vaccination coverage on COVID-19 burden. Half (n = 16, 50%) had policy intent: prioritising or selecting interventions, pandemic planning and response, vaccine distribution and optimisation strategies and understanding transmission dynamics of COVID-19. Fourteen studies (44%) were of medium quality and eight (25%) were of high quality. CONCLUSIONS While decision-makers could draw vital insights from the evidence generated from mathematical modelling to inform policy, we found that there was limited use of such models exploring vaccination impacts for COVID-19 in Africa. The disparity can be addressed by scaling up mathematical modelling training, increasing collaborative opportunities between modellers and policymakers, and increasing access to funding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia K Ofori
- Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emmanuelle A Dankwa
- Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eve Hiyori Estrada
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Xinyi Hua
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia, USA
| | - Teresia N Kimani
- KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Paul G Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
- Department of Health Services, Kiambu County, Ministry of Health Kenya, Kiambu County, Kenya
| | - Carrie G Wade
- Countway Library, Harvard School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Caroline O Buckee
- Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Megan B Murray
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bethany L Hedt-Gauthier
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Lacey H, Jain N, Sugimoto M, Shimato M, Reine I, Oria K. Combating malaria in Kenya through collaborative population health education: a systematic review and pilot case study. Infect Dis (Lond) 2023; 55:664-683. [PMID: 37424519 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2023.2231082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria continues to be a public health problem in Kenya, with an estimated 37.2 million people at high risk of the disease. The disease burden is compounded by inequalities in health service availability, housing, socioeconomic conditions, and access to education. OBJECTIVES We aimed to determine the status of community-based, health education interventions. Based on the findings, to develop an educational module for medical students to combat malaria in Kenya. METHODS A systematic review was conducted to identify different educational interventions, their successes and limitations, and legal challenges leading to low uptake and adherence to malaria prevention interventions from 2000-2023. Consequently, a 6-week online educational pilot was conducted with healthcare students from Kenya, Japan, the UK, and Cyprus. RESULTS Despite developing a national malaria strategy and monitoring and evaluation strategies, Kenya has not been able to meet the incidence reduction targets set by the World Health Organisation, underscoring the need for more work in identifying the barriers to implementing strategies and optimising the distribution of public health interventions. Student teams proposed innovative solutions, including two-tier malaria control strategies, maternal malaria clinical education, community awareness through schools and NGOs, and a 10-year health system strengthening and immunisation plan. CONCLUSIONS Public education regarding prevention strategies and increasing their adoption remains a key challenge in combating malaria in Kenya. In this regard, digital tools can facilitate international collaborative health education and exchange of best practices, allowing students and faculty to engage across boundaries and prepare them to be future-ready physicians connected to the global community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hester Lacey
- Faculty of Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Nityanand Jain
- Faculty of Medicine, Riga Stradinš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Mai Sugimoto
- Faculty of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Masako Shimato
- Faculty of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ieva Reine
- Faculty of Medicine, Riga Stradinš University, Riga, Latvia
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kevin Oria
- Tropical Institute of Community Health and Development, Great Lakes University of Kisumu, Nairobi, Kenya
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Kilmarx PH, Maitin T, Adam T, Aslanyan G, Cheetham M, Cruz J, Eigbike M, Gaye O, Jones CM, Kupfer L, Lindo J, Mijumbi R, Nachega JB, Nishi JB, Pantelidou I, Sarker M, Swaminathan S. Increasing Effectiveness and Equity in Strengthening Health Research Capacity Using Data and Metrics: Recent Advances of the ESSENCE Mechanism. Ann Glob Health 2023; 89:38. [PMID: 37273490 PMCID: PMC10237244 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.3948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The ESSENCE on Health Research initiative established a Working Group on Review of Investments in 2018 to improve coordination and collaboration among funders of health research capacity strengthening. The Working Group comprises more than a dozen ESSENCE members, including diverse representation by geography, country income level, the public sector, and philanthropy. Objective The overall goal of the Working Group is increased research on national health priorities as well as improved pandemic preparedness, and, ultimately, fewer countries with very limited research capacity. Methods We developed a basic set of metrics for national health research capacity, assessed different models of coordination and collaboration, took a deeper dive into eight countries to characterize their national research capacity, and began to identify opportunities to better coordinate our investments. In this article, we summarize the presentations, discussions, and outcomes of our second annual (virtual) meeting, which had more than 100 participants representing funders, researchers, and other stakeholders from higher- and lower-income countries worldwide. Findings and conclusions Presentations on the first day included the keynote speaker, Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, chief scientist of the World Health Organization (WHO), and updates on data and metrics for research capacity, which are critical to establish targets, road maps, and budgets. The second day focused on improving collaboration and coordination among funders and other stakeholders, the potential return on investment for health research, ongoing work to increase coordination at the country level, and examples of research capacity strengthening efforts in diverse health research areas from around the world. We concluded that an intentional data- and metric-driven approach to health research capacity strengthening, emphasizing coordination among funders, local leadership, and equitable partnerships and allocation of resources, will enhance the health systems of resource-poor countries as well as the world's pandemic preparedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter H. Kilmarx
- Fogarty International Center, U.S. National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Thabi Maitin
- South African Medical Research Council, Parow Valley, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Taghreed Adam
- Research for Health Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Garry Aslanyan
- Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michael Cheetham
- Office of Portfolio Analysis, U.S. National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Janelle Cruz
- Fogarty International Center, U.S. National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Oumar Gaye
- Cheikh Anta Diop University, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Catherine M. Jones
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Linda Kupfer
- Fogarty International Center, U.S. National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - John Lindo
- University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica
| | - Rhona Mijumbi
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jean B. Nachega
- Department of Epidemiology School of Public Health and Center for Global Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Malabika Sarker
- James P. Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Brand D, Singh JA, Nienaber McKay AG, Cengiz N, Moodley K. Data sharing governance in sub-Saharan Africa during public health emergencies: Gaps and guidance. S AFR J SCI 2022; 118. [PMID: 39005847 PMCID: PMC11241865 DOI: 10.17159/sajs.2022/13892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
While the COVID-19 pandemic has captured the attention of the global community since the end of 2019, deadly health pandemics are not new to Africa. Tuberculosis (TB), malaria and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) count amongst other serious diseases that have had a catastrophic impact on the African continent. Effective responses to such pandemics require high-quality, comprehensive data sets that can inform policymaking and enhance healthcare decision-making. While data is driving the information economy in the 21st century, the scarcity in Africa of carefully curated, large epidemiologic data sources and analytical capacity to rapidly identify and understand emerging infectious diseases poses a major challenge to mounting a time-sensitive response to unfolding pandemics. Data access, sharing and transfer between countries are crucial to effectively managing current and future health pandemics. Data access and sharing, however, raises questions about personal privacy, the adequacy of governance mechanisms to regulate cross-border data flows, and ethical issues relating to the collection and use of personal data in the interests of public health. Sub-Saharan Africa's most research-intensive countries are characterised by diverse data management and privacy governance frameworks. Such regional variance can impede time-sensitive data sharing and highlights the need for urgent governance reforms to facilitate effective decision-making in response to rapidly evolving public health threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Brand
- School of Public Leadership, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Jerome A Singh
- School of Law, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Annelize G Nienaber McKay
- Division of Law, Abertay University, Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Department of Public Law, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nezerith Cengiz
- Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Keymanthri Moodley
- Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Noormahomed EV, Noormahomed S, Hlashwayo D, Martins E, Ismail M, Bickler SW, Nachega J, Mahoche M, Barrett KE, Benson CA, Schooley RT. Fostering Sustainable Biomedical Research Training in Mozambique: A Spin-Off of the Medical Education Partnership Initiative. Ann Glob Health 2022; 88:65. [PMID: 35974986 PMCID: PMC9354555 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.3684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The further development of research capacity in low- and middle-income countries is critical to the delivery of evidence-based healthcare, the design of sound health policy and effective resource allocation. Research capacity is also critical for the retention of highly skilled faculty and staff and for institutional internationalization. Objectives We summarize the accomplishments, challenges and legacy of a five-year program to train biomedical researchers entitled "Enhanced Advanced Biomedical Research Training for Mozambique (EABRTM)". Methods A program conducted from 2015-2021 built upon the Medical Education Partnership Initiative to develop research capacity at Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM) and allied institutions. The project included design and implementation of postgraduate training programs and bolstered physical and human research infrastructure. Findings The program supported development and implementation of UEM's first doctoral (Bioscience and Public Health) and master (Biosciences) programs with 31 and 23 students enrolled to date, respectively. Three master programs were established at Lúrio University from which 176/202 (87.1%) and 107/202 (53.0%) students obtained a Postgraduate Diploma or master's degree, respectively. Scholarships were awarded to 39 biomedical researchers; 13 completed master degrees, one completed a PhD and five remain in doctoral studies. Thirteen administrative staff and four biomedical researchers were trained in research administration and in biostatistics, respectively. A total of 119 courses and seminars benefited 2,142 participants. Thirty-five manuscripts have been published to date in peer-reviewed international journals of which 77% are first-authored by Mozambicans and 44% last-authored by Africans. Sustainability was achieved through 59 research projects awarded by international agencies, totaling $16,363,656.42 and funds ($ 7,319,366.11) secured through 2025. Conclusions The EABRTM program substantially increased research and mentorship capacity and trained a new generation of biostatisticians and research administrators. These programmatic outcomes significantly increased the confidence of early stage Mozambican researchers in their ability to successfully pursue their career goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emília Virgínia Noormahomed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM), Maputo, MZ
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, San Diego (UCSD), US
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, MZ
| | - Sérgio Noormahomed
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, MZ
| | - Delfina Hlashwayo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM), Maputo, MZ
| | - Emília Martins
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, MZ
| | - Mamudo Ismail
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM), Maputo, MZ
| | | | - Jean Nachega
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, and Center for Global Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Manuel Mahoche
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, MZ
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Lúrio University, Nampula, MZ
| | - Kim E. Barrett
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego (UCSD), USA
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, USA
| | - Constance A. Benson
- Department of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Robert T. Schooley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, San Diego (UCSD), US
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The development of research competence among specialist registrars in South Africa: Challenges and opportunities for research education and capacity development. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS EDUCATION 2022. [DOI: 10.7196/ajhpe.2022.v14i2.1418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
To equip physicians with the competencies that support evidence-based healthcare, curriculum frameworks for medical education often promote scholarly activity as an essential component of training. Many medical schools worldwide expect medical trainees to participate in some form of research during their undergraduate and postgraduate training. This requirement is especially important in Africa, where there is also much need to develop clinical research capacity and an evidence base that is contextualised to the specific healthcare challenges on the continent. In South Africa, the requirement for specialist trainees to complete a research project (as part of a Master of Medicine, MMed) was made mandatory from 2011 and has introduced several difficulties for many training centres. There is concern that institutions are failing to develop medical specialists who are competent in their role as scholars, particularly in their ability to conduct research. In this article, I review the South African literature that discusses the research component of medical specialist registration. In addition to summarising the challenges associated with MMed projects and recent efforts to address them, I interrogate whether the current status of MMed research education is likely to be contributing to the successful development of research competence among this unique group of postgraduates. By consolidating the current debate, I hope to encourage a point of departure between criticising the challenges and adopting proactive strategies to address them. There is a great need for medical educators to design innovative and learner-centred research education strategies that can better develop research competence among African healthcare professionals.
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Brinkmann B, Davies JI, Witham MD, Harling G, Bärnighausen T, Bountogo M, Siedner MJ, Ouermi L, Junghanns J, Coulibaly B, Sié A, Payne CF, Kohler IV. Impairment in Activities of Daily Living and Unmet Need for Care Among Older Adults: A Population-Based Study From Burkina Faso. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 76:1880-1892. [PMID: 33715008 PMCID: PMC8557831 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab041] [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: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The importance of impairment in performing activities of daily living (ADL) is likely to increase in sub-Saharan Africa because few care options for affected people exist. This study investigated the prevalence of ADL impairment, the extent to which care need was met, and described characteristics of people with ADL impairment and unmet need in Burkina Faso. Methods This study used data from the Centre de Recherche en Santé de Nouna Heidelberg Aging Study, a population-based study among 3,026 adults aged older than 40 years conducted in rural Burkina Faso. Information on 6 basic ADL items was sought, with a follow-up question asking whether care need was not met, partially met, or met. Bivariable correlations and multivariable logistic regression were used to determine sociodemographic and health characteristics associated with ADL impairment and unmet need. Results ADL impairment of any kind was reported by 1,202 (39.7%) respondents and was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio: 1.05 [95% CI: 1.04–1.06]), being a woman (1.33 [1.06–1.60]), and reporting depressive symptoms (1.90 [1.65–2.18]). Among those with ADL impairment, 67.8% had at least one unmet need. Severe ADL impairment was found in 202 (6.7%) respondents, who reported a lower prevalence of unmet need (43.1%). Severe ADL impairment was associated with depressive symptoms (2.55 [2.11–3.07]) to a stronger degree than any ADL impairment. Discussion Prevalence of ADL impairment and unmet need was high in this setting. Variation in impairment across the population highlighted key groups for future interventions. Unmet need for care was highest in middle-aged adults, indicating a gap in care provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Brinkmann
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Justine I Davies
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, UK.,MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Miles D Witham
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,AGE Research Group, NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University and Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
| | - Guy Harling
- Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Institute for Global Health, University College London, UK
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Germany.,Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Mark J Siedner
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | | | - Jana Junghanns
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | | | - Ali Sié
- Centre de Recherche en Santé de Nouna, Burkina Faso
| | - Collin F Payne
- School of Demography, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Iliana V Kohler
- Population Studies Center and Department of Sociology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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Igumbor JO, Bosire EN, Vicente-Crespo M, Igumbor EU, Olalekan UA, Chirwa TF, Kinyanjui SM, Kyobutungi C, Fonn S. Considerations for an integrated population health databank in Africa: lessons from global best practices. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 6:214. [PMID: 35224211 PMCID: PMC8844538 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17000.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The rising digitisation and proliferation of data sources and repositories cannot be ignored. This trend expands opportunities to integrate and share population health data. Such platforms have many benefits, including the potential to efficiently translate information arising from such data to evidence needed to address complex global health challenges. There are pockets of quality data on the continent that may benefit from greater integration. Integration of data sources is however under-explored in Africa. The aim of this article is to identify the requirements and provide practical recommendations for developing a multi-consortia public and population health data-sharing framework for Africa. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of global best practices and policies on data sharing and its optimisation. We searched eight databases for publications and undertook an iterative snowballing search of articles cited in the identified publications. The Leximancer software © enabled content analysis and selection of a sample of the most relevant articles for detailed review. Themes were developed through immersion in the extracts of selected articles using inductive thematic analysis. We also performed interviews with public and population health stakeholders in Africa to gather their experiences, perceptions, and expectations of data sharing. Results: Our findings described global stakeholder experiences on research data sharing. We identified some challenges and measures to harness available resources and incentivise data sharing. We further highlight progress made by the different groups in Africa and identified the infrastructural requirements and considerations when implementing data sharing platforms. Furthermore, the review suggests key reforms required, particularly in the areas of consenting, privacy protection, data ownership, governance, and data access. Conclusions: The findings underscore the critical role of inclusion, social justice, public good, data security, accountability, legislation, reciprocity, and mutual respect in developing a responsive, ethical, durable, and integrated research data sharing ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude O. Igumbor
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa
| | - Edna N. Bosire
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa
| | - Marta Vicente-Crespo
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ehimario U. Igumbor
- Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Uthman A. Olalekan
- Warwick-Centre for Applied Health Research and Delivery (WCAHRD), Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Tobias F. Chirwa
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa
| | | | | | - Sharon Fonn
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa
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Advancing collaborations in health research and clinical trials in Sub-Saharan Africa: development and implementation of a biostatistical collaboration module in the Masters in Biostatistics Program at Stellenbosch University. Trials 2021; 22:478. [PMID: 34294129 PMCID: PMC8295633 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05427-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sub-Saharan Africa continues to carry a high burden of communicable diseases such as TB and HIV and non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. Although investment in research has led to advances in improvements in outcomes, a lot still remains to be done to build research capacity in health. Like many other regions in the world, Sub-Saharan Africa suffers from a critical shortage of biostatisticians and clinical trial methodologists. Methods Funded through a Fogarty Global Health Training Program grant, the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Stellenbosch University in South Africa established a new Masters Program in Biostatistics which was launched in January 2017. In this paper, we describe the development of a biostatistical and clinical trials collaboration Module, adapted from a similar course offered in the Health Research Methodology program at McMaster University. Discussion Guided by three core principles (experiential learning; multi-/inter-disciplinary approach; and formal mentorship), the Module aims to advance biostatistical collaboration skills of the trainees by facilitating learning in how to systematically apply fundamental statistical and trial methodological knowledge in practice while strengthening some soft skills which are necessary for effective collaborations with other healthcare researchers to solve health problems. We also share some preliminary findings from the first four cohorts that took the Module in January–November 2018 to 2021. We expect that this Module can provide an example of how to improve biostatistical and clinical trial collaborations and accelerate research capacity building in low-resource settings. Funding source Fogarty International Center of the National Institutes of Health.
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Birhan H, Derebe K, Muche S, Melese B. Statistical Analysis on Determinant Factors Associated with Time to Death of HIV/TB Co-Infected Patients Under HAART at Debre Tabor Referral Hospital: An Application of Accelerated Failure Time-Shared Frailty Models. HIV AIDS-RESEARCH AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2021; 13:775-787. [PMID: 34305411 PMCID: PMC8298824 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s319745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Human immune virus/tuberculosis co-infection in one's immune system potentiates each other and hastening the weakening of the host's immunological capabilities while growing active TB, which will increase susceptibility to primary contamination, re-contamination, and/or reactivation for sufferers with latent TB. The goal of this study was to identify determinant factors associated with the survival time to death of HIV/TB co-infected adult patients under HAART at Debre Tabor referral hospital. Methods A retrospective follow-up analysis was undertaken for 243 HIV/TB co-infected patients who were receiving ART treatment and had follow-ups between January 2014 and December 2019. To compare the survival experiences of different patient groups, the Log rank test was performed. The Weibull accelerated failure time gamma shared frailty model was used to find determinants of HIV/TB co-infected patients' survival time. Results Among HIV/TB co-infected patients, 87 (35.39%) died of whom 77 (88.5%) patients were females. The Weibull AFT gamma shared frailty model showed that sex, baseline age, adherence status, educational status of respondents, functional status, WHO clinical stage, baseline hemoglobin and type of TB were among the potential determinants of survival time of HIV/TB co-infected patients. Furthermore, the findings of this study demonstrated that there is a clustering impact on patient time to death that results from the residency of HIV/TB co-infected patients' survival time. Conclusion and Recommendation The majority of patients reside in rural area, have poor adherence to treatment, and have low CD4 cell counts. Educational status, WHO clinical stages, adherence status, and hemoglobin levels of patients are all important determinants of HIV/TB co-infected patients' survival. As a result, to improve the survival of HIV/TB co-infected patients at the start of and during some stages of anti-TB treatment, the concerned body, FMOH, in collaboration with Regional Health Bureau, should emphasize the importance of following treatment for HIV/TB co-infected patients with poor adherence status, advanced WHO clinical stages, and a low CD4+ count.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailegebrael Birhan
- Department of Statistics, Debre Tabor University Faculty of Natural and Computational Science, Debre Tabor, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Kenaw Derebe
- Department of Statistics, Debre Tabor University Faculty of Natural and Computational Science, Debre Tabor, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Setegn Muche
- Department of Statistics, Debre Tabor University Faculty of Natural and Computational Science, Debre Tabor, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Bezanesh Melese
- Department of Statistics, Debre Tabor University Faculty of Natural and Computational Science, Debre Tabor, Amhara, Ethiopia
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Adetokunboh OO, Mthombothi ZE, Dominic EM, Djomba-Njankou S, Pulliam JRC. African based researchers' output on models for the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases and public health interventions: A scoping review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250086. [PMID: 33956823 PMCID: PMC8101744 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Applied epidemiological models are used in predicting future trends of diseases, for the basic understanding of disease and health dynamics, and to improve the measurement of health indicators. Mapping the research outputs of epidemiological modelling studies concerned with transmission dynamics of infectious diseases and public health interventions in Africa will help to identify the areas with substantial levels of research activities, areas with gaps, and research output trends. METHODS A scoping review of applied epidemiological models of infectious disease studies that involved first or last authors affiliated to African institutions was conducted. Eligible studies were those concerned with the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases and public health interventions. The review was consistent with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews. Four electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed publications up to the end of April 2020. RESULTS Of the 5927 publications identified, 181 met the inclusion criteria. The review identified 143 publications with first authors having an African institutional affiliation (AIA), while 81 had both first and last authors with an AIA. The publication authors were found to be predominantly affiliated with institutions based in South Africa and Kenya. Furthermore, human immunodeficiency virus, malaria, tuberculosis, and Ebola virus disease were found to be the most researched infectious diseases. There has been a gradual increase in research productivity across Africa especially in the last ten years, with several collaborative efforts spread both within and beyond Africa. CONCLUSIONS Research productivity in applied epidemiological modelling studies of infectious diseases may have increased, but there remains an under-representation of African researchers as leading authors. The study findings indicate a need for the development of research capacity through supporting existing institutions in Africa and promoting research funding that will address local health priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olatunji O. Adetokunboh
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Zinhle E. Mthombothi
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Emanuel M. Dominic
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Sylvie Djomba-Njankou
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Juliet R. C. Pulliam
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Sombié I, Bamouni SF, Somé DT, Johnson E, Aidam J. From training to practice: a report of professional capacity development in Health Research in West Africa. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 21:259. [PMID: 33952211 PMCID: PMC8101165 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-021-02696-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Between 2008 and 2013, the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) conducted a series of post-graduate capacity building in research methodology in West Africa. This work evaluated the contribution of these trainings in terms of knowledge acquisition and influence of research and policy practice. Cooke's conceptual framework for assessing research capacity building was used with three data sources to construct the indicators (training reports, research project implementation reports and WAHO research programme evaluation report). RESULTS There was an improvement in the knowledge of the 84 participants between the pre- and post-test. At the end of the training, the learners developed 19 protocols, 14 of which were finalised, financed and implemented, reflecting the learners' confidence to engage in research at the end of the training. The implementation of the protocols was conducted with the partnership and collaboration between the agents of the control programmes and the research centres. Some research results have been disseminated and a small portion used to strengthen the programmes. CONCLUSION This evaluation showed that the training was linked to practice with little publication and use of the results to improve the programmes. This regional capacity building programme should be maintained and strengthened by adding modules in data analysis, scientific communication and knowledge transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Issiaka Sombié
- West African Health Organisation, 175, Avenue Ouezzin Coulibaly, Bobo Dioulasso 01, 01 BP 153, Burkina Faso.
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Santé, Université Nazi Boni, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
| | | | - Donmozoun Télesphore Somé
- Société d'Etudes et de Recherche en Santé Publique (SERSAP), Ouagadougou 06, 06 BP 9150, Burkina Faso
| | - Ermel Johnson
- West African Health Organisation, 175, Avenue Ouezzin Coulibaly, Bobo Dioulasso 01, 01 BP 153, Burkina Faso
| | - Jude Aidam
- West African Health Organisation, 175, Avenue Ouezzin Coulibaly, Bobo Dioulasso 01, 01 BP 153, Burkina Faso
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Guleid FH, Oyando R, Kabia E, Mumbi A, Akech S, Barasa E. A bibliometric analysis of COVID-19 research in Africa. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e005690. [PMID: 33972261 PMCID: PMC8111873 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-005690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented global research effort to build a body of knowledge that can inform mitigation strategies. We carried out a bibliometric analysis to describe the COVID-19 research output in Africa in terms of setting, study design, research themes and author affiliation. METHODS We searched for articles published between 1 December 2019 and 3 January 2021 from various databases including PubMed, African Journals Online, medRxiv, Collabovid, the WHO global research database and Google. All article types and study design were included. RESULTS A total of 1296 articles were retrieved. 46.6% were primary research articles, 48.6% were editorial-type articles while 4.6% were secondary research articles. 20.3% articles used the entire continent of Africa as their study setting while South Africa (15.4%) was the most common country-focused setting. The most common research topics include 'country preparedness and response' (24.9%) and 'the direct and indirect health impacts of the pandemic' (21.6%). However, only 1.0% of articles focus on therapeutics and vaccines. 90.3% of the articles had at least one African researcher as author, 78.5% had an African researcher as first author, while 63.5% had an African researcher as last author. The University of Cape Town leads with the greatest number of first and last authors. 13% of the articles were published in medRxiv and of the studies that declared funding, the Wellcome Trust was the top funding body. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights Africa's COVID-19 research and the continent's existing capacity to carry out research that addresses local problems. However, more studies focused on vaccines and therapeutics are needed to inform local development. In addition, the uneven distribution of research productivity among African countries emphasises the need for increased investment where needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatuma Hassan Guleid
- Policy Engagement & Knowledge Translation Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Robinson Oyando
- Health Economics Research Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Evelyn Kabia
- Health Economics Research Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Audrey Mumbi
- Health Economics Research Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samuel Akech
- Health Services Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Edwine Barasa
- Health Economics Research Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Park JJH, Grais RF, Taljaard M, Nakimuli-Mpungu E, Jehan F, Nachega JB, Ford N, Xavier D, Kengne AP, Ashorn P, Socias ME, Bhutta ZA, Mills EJ. Urgently seeking efficiency and sustainability of clinical trials in global health. Lancet Glob Health 2021; 9:e681-e690. [PMID: 33865473 PMCID: PMC8424133 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(20)30539-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This paper shows the scale of global health research and the context in which we frame the subsequent papers in the Series. In this Series paper, we provide a historical perspective on clinical trial research by revisiting the 1948 streptomycin trial for pulmonary tuberculosis, which was the first documented randomised clinical trial in the English language, and we discuss its close connection with global health. We describe the current state of clinical trial research globally by providing an overview of clinical trials that have been registered in the WHO International Clinical Trial Registry since 2010. We discuss challenges with current trial planning and designs that are often used in clinical trial research undertaken in low-income and middle-income countries, as an overview of the global health trials landscape. Finally, we discuss the importance of collaborative work in global health research towards generating sustainable and culturally appropriate research environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay J H Park
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Monica Taljaard
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Fyezah Jehan
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jean B Nachega
- Department of Medicine and Center for Infectious Diseases, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Epidemiology and Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nathan Ford
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Denis Xavier
- Department of Pharmacology and Division of Clinical Research, St John's Medical College, Bangalore, India
| | - Andre P Kengne
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Per Ashorn
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Maria Eugenia Socias
- Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina; British Columbia Centre for Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Global Health and Development, and Center of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Edward J Mills
- School of Public Health, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Cytel, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Chirwa TF, Matsena Zingoni Z, Munyewende P, Manda SO, Mwambi H, Kandala NB, Kinyanjui S, Young T, Musenge E, Simbeye J, Musonda P, Mahande MJ, Weke P, Onyango NO, Kazembe L, Tumwesigye NM, Zuma K, Yende-Zuma N, Omanyondo Ohambe MC, Kweku EN, Maposa I, Ayele B, Achia T, Machekano R, Thabane L, Levin J, Eijkemans MJC, Carpenter J, Chasela C, Klipstein-Grobusch K, Todd J. Developing excellence in biostatistics leadership, training and science in Africa: How the Sub-Saharan Africa Consortium for Advanced Biostatistics (SSACAB) training unites expertise to deliver excellence. AAS Open Res 2020; 3:51. [PMID: 33501413 PMCID: PMC7802118 DOI: 10.12688/aasopenres.13144.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The increase in health research in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has led to a high demand for biostatisticians to develop study designs, contribute and apply statistical methods in data analyses. Initiatives exist to address the dearth in statistical capacity and lack of local biostatisticians in SSA health projects. The Sub-Saharan African Consortium for Advanced Biostatistics (SSACAB) led by African institutions was initiated to improve biostatistical capacity according to the needs identified by African institutions, through collaborative masters and doctoral training in biostatistics. SACCAB has created a critical mass of biostatisticians and a network of institutions over the last five years and has strengthened biostatistics resources and capacity for health research studies in SSA. SSACAB comprises 11 universities and four research institutions which are supported by four European universities. In 2015, only four universities had established Masters programmes in biostatistics and SSACAB supported the remaining seven to develop Masters programmes. In 2019 the University of the Witwatersrand became the first African institution to gain Royal Statistical Society accreditation for a Biostatistics Masters programme. A total of 150 fellows have been awarded scholarships to date of which 123 are Masters fellowships (41 female) of whom 58 have already graduated. Graduates have been employed in African academic (19) and research (15) institutions and 10 have enrolled for PhD studies. A total of 27 (10 female) PhD fellowships have been awarded; 4 of them are due to graduate by 2020. To date, SSACAB Masters and PhD students have published 17 and 31 peer-reviewed articles, respectively. SSACAB has also facilitated well-attended conferences, face-to-face and online short courses. Pooling of limited biostatistics resources in SSA combined with co-funding from external partners has shown to be an effective strategy for the development and teaching of advanced biostatistics methods, supervision and mentoring of PhD candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias F Chirwa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Zvifadzo Matsena Zingoni
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Pascalia Munyewende
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Samuel O Manda
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.,Department of Statistics, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,School of Mathematics, Statistics & Computer Science, University of KwaZulu Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.,Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Henry Mwambi
- School of Mathematics, Statistics & Computer Science, University of KwaZulu Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Ngianga-Bakwin Kandala
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Samson Kinyanjui
- Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Taryn Young
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eustasius Musenge
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Jupiter Simbeye
- Mathematical Sciences Department, Chancellor College, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Patrick Musonda
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michael Johnson Mahande
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Patrick Weke
- School of Mathematics, College of Biological and Physical Science, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelson Owuor Onyango
- School of Mathematics, College of Biological and Physical Science, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lawrence Kazembe
- Department of Statistics and Population Studies,, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | | | - Khangelani Zuma
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.,Human and Social Capabilities (HSC) Research Division, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nonhlanhla Yende-Zuma
- Statistics and Data Management, Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Marie-Claire Omanyondo Ohambe
- Biostatistics, Doctoral School, Institut Superieur Des Techniques Medicales De Kinshasa (ISTM), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Emmanuel Nakua Kweku
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Innocent Maposa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Birhanu Ayele
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thomas Achia
- Division of Global HIV & TB (DGHT), United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, KEMRI Campus, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Rhoderick Machekano
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Jonathan Levin
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Marinus J C Eijkemans
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - James Carpenter
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Charles Chasela
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.,Research statistics, Right to Care, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Kerstin Klipstein-Grobusch
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.,Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jim Todd
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Lokossou VK, Sombie I, Ahanhanzo CD, Brito C, Antara SN, Nguku PM, Balogun MS, Kenu E, Ouendo EM, Umeokonkwo CD, Okolo S. Strengthening Applied Epidemiology in West Africa: Progress, Gaps, and Advancing a Regional Strategy to Improve Health Security. Health Secur 2020; 19:88-99. [PMID: 33290155 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2019.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to prevent, promptly detect, and appropriately respond to a public health threat is essential for health security. Field epidemiology training has helped increase the quality and quantity of the public health workforce to strengthen disease surveillance, outbreak preparedness and response, and general public health capacity. We conducted a desk review on the status of the Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program model in 16 countries in West Africa. We also developed a questionnaire and shared it with West African Health Organization (WAHO) member states to document their experiences and the status of training in their countries. WAHO organized a regional 3-day consultative meeting with major stakeholders in the region to examine progress, gaps, and challenges, and outline a roadmap to strengthen the Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program. Stakeholders shared their experiences, engaged in discussions to identify strengths and gaps, and made plans on a way forward. Member states are at different levels of implementing field epidemiology and laboratory training programs in their countries, and, therefore, major gaps remain in the number and distribution of trained epidemiologists throughout West Africa. Member states implement different variants of the program and in some instances the same cadre of health workers are trained in different but comparable programs with different funding streams. Two member states had not begun implementing the training program. Developing regional centers of excellence was recommended in the long term while collaboration among member states to train the required number of epidemiologists to fill the acute needs could be helpful in the short and medium term. Curriculum harmonization and expansion, deployment and use of trained epidemiologists, accreditation of training institutions, and generation of indigenous funding streams are recommended to improve the Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program in West Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Issiaka Sombie
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Carlos Brito
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Simon Nyovuura Antara
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Patrick Mboya Nguku
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Muhammad Shakir Balogun
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Ernest Kenu
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Edgard-Marius Ouendo
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
| | - Stanley Okolo
- Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, MD, MPH, MBA, MSc, is Head of Division, Health Emergency and Disaster Management Department, ECOWAS Regional Center for Surveillance and Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria. Issiaka Sombie, PhD, is Head of Research and Grant Division and Carlos Brito, MPH, is Director, Department of Public Health and Research; Césaire Damien Ahanhanzo, MSc, MPA, is General Coordinator of World Bank-Funded Projects, Department of Planning and Health Information; and Stanley Okolo, PhD, is Director General; all for the West African Health Organization, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Simon Nyovuura Antara, MPH, is Director, Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Kampala, Uganda. Patrick Mboya Nguku, MSc, is Senior Regional Technical Coordinator; Muhammad Shakir Balogun, FMCPath, is Resident Advisor; and Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, MPH, FWACP, is a Scientific Writer and Field Coordinator; all for the Africa Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria. Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo is also a Consultant Community Physician and Epidemiologist, Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Ernest Kenu, PhD, is a Professor, Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Edgard-Marius Ouendo, PhD, is a Professor of Public Health, Institut Regional de Santé Publique, Ouidah, Atlantique, Bénin
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Chirwa TF, Matsena Zingoni Z, Munyewende P, Manda SO, Mwambi H, Kandala NB, Kinyanjui S, Young T, Musenge E, Simbeye J, Musonda P, Mahande MJ, Weke P, Onyango NO, Kazembe L, Tumwesigye NM, Zuma K, Yende-Zuma N, Omanyondo Ohambe MC, Kweku EN, Maposa I, Ayele B, Achia T, Machekano R, Thabane L, Levin J, Eijkemans MJ, Carpenter J, Chasela C, Klipstein-Grobusch K, Todd J. Developing excellence in biostatistics leadership, training and science in Africa: How the Sub-Saharan Africa Consortium for Advanced Biostatistics (SSACAB) training unites expertise to deliver excellence. AAS Open Res 2020; 3:51. [DOI: 10.12688/aasopenres.13144.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The increase in health research in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has generated large amounts of data and led to a high demand for biostatisticians to analyse these data locally and quickly. Donor-funded initiatives exist to address the dearth in statistical capacity, but few initiatives have been led by African institutions. The Sub-Saharan African Consortium for Advanced Biostatistics (SSACAB) aims to improve biostatistical capacity in Africa according to the needs identified by African institutions, through (collaborative) masters and doctoral training in biostatistics. We describe the SSACAB Consortium, which comprises 11 universities and four research institutions- supported by four European universities. SSACAB builds on existing resources to strengthen biostatistics for health research with a focus on supporting biostatisticians to become research leaders; building a critical mass of biostatisticians, and networking institutions and biostatisticians across SSA. In 2015 only four institutions had established Masters programmes in biostatistics and SSACAB supported the remaining institutions to develop Masters programmes. In 2019 the University of the Witwatersrand became the first African institution to gain Royal Statistical Society accreditation for a Biostatistics MSc programme. A total of 150 fellows have been awarded scholarships to date of which 123 are Masters fellowships (41 female) of which with 58 have already graduated. Graduates have been employed in African academic (19) and research (15) institutions and 10 have enrolled for PhD studies. A total of 27 (10 female) PhD fellowships have been awarded; 4 of them are due to graduate by 2020. To date, SSACAB Masters and PhD students have published 17 and 31 peer-reviewed articles, respectively. SSACAB has also facilitated well-attended conferences, face-to-face and online short courses. Pooling the limited biostatistics resources in SSA, and combining with co-funding from external partners is an effective strategy for the development and teaching of advanced biostatistics methods, supervision and mentoring of PhD candidates.
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González-Alcaide G, Menchi-Elanzi M, Nacarapa E, Ramos-Rincón JM. HIV/AIDS research in Africa and the Middle East: participation and equity in North-South collaborations and relationships. Global Health 2020; 16:83. [PMID: 32943058 PMCID: PMC7499968 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-020-00609-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV/AIDS has attracted considerable research attention since the 1980s. In the current context of globalization and the predominance of cooperative work, it is crucial to analyze the participation of the countries and regions where the infection is most prevalent. This study assesses the participation of African countries in publications on the topic, as well as the degree of equity or influence existing in North-South relations. METHODS We identified all articles and reviews of HIV/AIDS indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection. We analyzed the scientific production, collaboration, and contributions from African and Middle Eastern countries to scientific activity in the region. The concept of leadership, measured through the participation as the first author of documents in collaboration was used to determine the equity in research produced through international collaboration. RESULTS A total of 68,808 documents published from 2010 to 2017 were analyzed. Researchers from North America and Europe participated in 82.14% of the global scientific production on HIV/AIDS, compared to just 21.61% from Africa and the Middle East. Furthermore, the publications that did come out of these regions was concentrated in a small number of countries, led by South Africa (41% of the documents). Other features associated with HIV/AIDS publications from Africa include the importance of international collaboration from the USA, the UK, and other European countries (75-93% of the documents) and the limited participation as first authors that is evident (30 to 36% of the documents). Finally, the publications to which African countries contributed had a notably different disciplinary orientation, with a predominance of research on public health, epidemiology, and drug therapy. CONCLUSIONS It is essential to foster more balance in research output, avoid the concentration of resources that reproduces the global North-South model on the African continent, and focus the research agenda on local priorities. To accomplish this, the global North should strengthen the transfer of research skills and seek equity in cooperative ties, favoring the empowerment of African countries. These efforts should be concentrated in countries with low scientific activity and high incidence and prevalence of the disease. It is also essential to foster intraregional collaborations between African countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marouane Menchi-Elanzi
- Department of Internal Medicine, General University Hospital of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Edy Nacarapa
- Infectious Disease Division, Carmelo Hospital of Chókwè - Daughters of Charity, Saint Vincent of Paul, Chókwè, Gaza Province, Mozambique
- Tinpswalo Association, Research Unit, Vincentian Association to Fight AIDS and TB, Chókwè, Gaza Province, Mozambique
| | - José-Manuel Ramos-Rincón
- Department of Internal Medicine, General University Hospital of Alicante, Alicante, Spain.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, Alicante, Spain.
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Kasprowicz VO, Chopera D, Waddilove KD, Brockman MA, Gilmour J, Hunter E, Kilembe W, Karita E, Gaseitsiwe S, Sanders EJ, Ndung'u T. African-led health research and capacity building- is it working? BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1104. [PMID: 32664891 PMCID: PMC7359480 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08875-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Africa bears a disproportionately high burden of globally significant disease but has lagged in knowledge production to address its health challenges. In this contribution, we discuss the challenges and approaches to health research capacity strengthening in sub-Saharan Africa and propose that the recent shift to an African-led approach is the most optimal. Methods and findings We introduce several capacity building approaches and recent achievements, explore why African-led research on the continent is a potentially paradigm-shifting and innovative approach, and discuss the advantages and challenges thereof. We reflect on the approaches used by the African Academy of Sciences (AAS)-funded Sub-Saharan African Network for TB/HIV Research Excellence (SANTHE) consortium as an example of an effective African-led science and capacity building programme. We recommend the following as crucial components of future efforts: 1. Directly empowering African-based researchers, 2. Offering quality training and career development opportunities to large numbers of junior African scientists and support staff, and 3. Effective information exchange and collaboration. Furthermore, we argue that long-term investment from international donors and increasing funding commitments from African governments and philanthropies will be needed to realise a critical mass of local capacity and to create and sustain world-class research hubs that will be conducive to address Africa’s intractable health challenges. Conclusions Our experiences so far suggest that African-led research has the potential to overcome the vicious cycle of brain-drain and may ultimately lead to improvement of health and science-led economic transformation of Africa into a prosperous continent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria O Kasprowicz
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa.,HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Denis Chopera
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Mark A Brockman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.,Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Eric Hunter
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Rwanda Zambia Emory HIV Research Group, Zambia; Kigali, Rwanda and Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - William Kilembe
- Rwanda Zambia Emory HIV Research Group, Zambia; Kigali, Rwanda and Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Etienne Karita
- Rwanda Zambia Emory HIV Research Group, Zambia; Kigali, Rwanda and Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Simani Gaseitsiwe
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana.,Department of Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eduard J Sanders
- Kenyan Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.,Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Clinical Vaccinology and Tropical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, UK
| | - Thumbi Ndung'u
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa. .,HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. .,Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA. .,Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany. .,Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK.
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Igumbor JO, Bosire EN, Basera TJ, Uwizeye D, Fayehun O, Wao H, Ajuwon A, Otukpa E, Karimi F, Conco D, Gitau E, Fonn S. CARTA fellows' scientific contribution to the African public and population Health Research agenda (2011 to 2018). BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1030. [PMID: 32600381 PMCID: PMC7324979 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09147-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since its inception in 2009, the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA) program has focused on strengthening the capacity of nine African universities and four research centres to produce skilled researchers and scholars able to improve public and population health on the continent. This study describes the alignment between CARTA-supported doctoral topics and publications with the priorities articulated by the African public and population health research agenda. METHODS We reviewed the output from CARTA PhD fellows between 2011 and 2018 to establish the volume and scope of the publications, and the degree to which the research focus coincided with the SDGs, World Bank, and African Development Bank research priority areas. We identified nine key priority areas into which the topics were classified. RESULTS In total, 140 CARTA fellows published 806 articles in peer-reviewed journals over the 8 years up to 2018. All the publications considered in this paper had authors affiliated with African universities, 90% of the publications had an African university first author and 41% of the papers have CARTA fellows as the first author. The publications are available in over 6300 online versions and have been cited in over 5500 other publications. About 69% of the published papers addressed the nine African public and population health research agenda and SDG priority areas. Infectious diseases topped the list of publications (26.8%), followed by the health system and policy research (17.6%), maternal and child health (14.7%), sexual and reproductive health (14.3%). CONCLUSIONS Investments by CARTA in supporting doctoral studies provides fellows with sufficient training and skills to publish their research in fields of public and population health. The number of publications is understandably uneven across Africa's public and population priority areas. Even while low in number, fellows are publishing in areas such as non-communicable disease, health financing, neglected tropical diseases and environmental health. Violence and injury is perhaps underrepresented. There is need to keep developing research capacity in partner institutions with low research output by training more PhDs in such institutions and by facilitating enabling environments for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude O. Igumbor
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Edna N. Bosire
- South African Medical Research Council Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit (DPHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tariro J. Basera
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Hesborn Wao
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ademola Ajuwon
- Department of Health Promotion and Education, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel Otukpa
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Florah Karimi
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daphney Conco
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Evelyn Gitau
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sharon Fonn
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Participation of the hospitals in the Republic of Ireland in international research over more than a decade: a bibliometric analysis. Ir J Med Sci 2019; 189:51-69. [PMID: 31463896 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-019-02077-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study provides an accurate awareness of the present situation of health research in Irish hospitals both public and private. We aimed to analyze factors that may influence it and provide recommendations for active steps to improve the current situation of Irish health research based on our findings. METHODS We performed a bibliometric analysis to assess qualitatively and quantitatively the publications from Ireland over a period between 2007 and 2018. We also investigated the associated variables with the quality of research. Furthermore, we conducted a Joinpoint analysis to see the trends in Irish research over these years. RESULTS From 12,828 included peer-reviewed articles, the average citation count per article was 19.98. Furthermore, we showed that a higher impact factor (IF) and institutions number, present per article, were significantly associated with more citations. Also, the publication count and the mean IF showed an increase over the years according to the Joinpoint analysis. Moreover, the oncology research had the highest output, followed by pediatrics, then neurology while the specialties with least publications were ear, nose, and throat (ENT), urology, plastic surgery, and dentistry. Additionally, cardiovascular, obstetrics and gynecology, oncology, pediatrics, pulmonology, dermatology, ophthalmology, dentistry, and radiology research showed an increased publication count trend in recent years. While anesthesiology, ENT, general surgery, gastroenterology and hepatology, infection and tropical medicine, nephrology, neurology, orthopedics, plastic surgery, and urology showed a decrease in the publications trend. CONCLUSIONS Our findings may serve as a useful approach to benchmark scientific output from hospitals and guide the future allocation of research spending.
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Libhaber E, Chirwa T, Kramer B. A biostatistical support system in health sciences: is this sustainable in a resource-restricted environment? Health Res Policy Syst 2019; 17:66. [PMID: 31277651 PMCID: PMC6612072 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-019-0470-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Training in biostatistics is important for strengthening capacity in health research. This is particularly true for Africa, where research output in the health sciences has been low. Training initiatives for the continent are therefore essential. The aim of the present study was to analyse the quality and financial sustainability of the expanded biostatistical support system at a South African health sciences institution between 2013 and 2017. Methods A cross-sectional investigation of the initiatives created between the years 2013 and 2017 in the University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences Research Office was undertaken. An assessment of the one-on-one consultations carried out by postgraduate students and staff, financial costs of the support system and the number of postgraduate student graduations were analysed. Results The number of statistical consultations increased over the period examined. The consultations were highly recommended by the postgraduate students and staff (consulters). A clear rise in the number of Masters and PhD student graduates and an increase in research units were observed from 2013 to 2017, although these cannot be solely associated with the biostatistical support system. The finances for maintaining the support system are cost effective as the number of graduates increases. The total cost to the Research Office is US$ 225 per graduate per annum. Conclusions The expansion of the biostatistical support system has indirectly contributed to an increased number of graduates and research publication units in the institution. While the current finances support the system, any increases in enrolments or growth in diversification of biostatistical requirements may place a strain on the financial sustainability. This service is of value to developed and developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Libhaber
- Health Sciences Research Office, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. .,School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Tobias Chirwa
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Beverley Kramer
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Univerisity of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Adetokunboh OO, Awotiwon A, Ndwandwe D, Uthman OA, Wiysonge CS. The burden of vaccine-preventable diseases among HIV-infected and HIV-exposed children in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2019; 15:2590-2605. [PMID: 30945963 PMCID: PMC6930054 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2019.1599676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
There are knowledge gaps regarding evidence-based research on the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected and HIV-exposed children aged <18 years in sub-Saharan Africa. It is therefore essential to determine the trend and burden of vaccine-preventable diseases. We completed a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify the incidence, prevalence and case-fatality rates (CFR) attributed to various vaccine-preventable diseases among HIV-infected and HIV-exposed children in sub-Saharan Africa. The trends in the prevalence of vaccine-preventable diseases among HIV-infected and HIV-exposed children were also determined. Nine studies on tuberculosis (TB) were pooled to give an overall incidence rate estimate of 60 (95% confidence interval [CI] 30-70) per 1,000 child-years. The incidence of pneumococcal infections varied between 109-1509 per 100,000 while pertussis was between 2.9 and 3.7 per 1000 child-year. Twenty-two TB prevalence studies reported an estimated prevalence of 16%. Fifteen prevalence studies on hepatitis B infection were pooled together with an estimated prevalence of 5%. The pooled prevalence for pneumococcal infections was 2% while rotavirus diarrhoea reported a prevalence of 13%. Twenty-nine studies on TB were pooled to give an overall CFR estimate of 17% while pneumococcal infections in HIV-infected and exposed children were pooled together with a resultant rate of 15%. Some of the vaccine-preventable diseases still have high incidences, prevalence and CFR among HIV-infected and HIV-exposed children. There is also a dearth of research data on the burden of several vaccine-preventable diseases among HIV-infected and exposed children and a need for more studies in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olatunji O. Adetokunboh
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ajibola Awotiwon
- Knowledge Translation Unit, University of Cape Town Lung Institute, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Duduzile Ndwandwe
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Olalekan A. Uthman
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Warwick Medical School - Population Evidence and Technologies, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Charles S. Wiysonge
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Training in Cardiovascular Epidemiology and Prevention: A 50-Year Journey From Makarska to Goa. Glob Heart 2019; 13:355-362. [PMID: 30509551 DOI: 10.1016/j.gheart.2018.09.526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The first International Ten-Day Teaching Seminar on Cardiovascular Epidemiology and Prevention was held in Makarska, in the former Yugoslavia in August 1968. The goals of the Seminar were to help bridge the gap between cardiology and cardiovascular epidemiology, promote international collaboration, and provide training in cardiovascular epidemiology and prevention. The 50th Seminar took place in Goa, India in June 2018. This perspective article provides an overview of the major accomplishments of the Seminar as well as its persisting challenges. It also addresses unique opportunities as the Seminar embarks on the next phase of international training seminars in cardiovascular epidemiology and prevention. In particular, this article highlights strategies that offer the opportunity to significantly increase the number of Seminar participants annually, especially from low- and middle-income countries and Small Island Developing States where the burden and trend in cardiovascular diseases and cardiometabolic risk factors pose the greatest concerns. It also discusses the importance of using big data for descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics at the local level, and the need to leverage information technology and digital platforms to create greater access to and sharing of lessons learned. The article also highlights the opportunity to embrace active dissemination and implementation research and the science of health care delivery as important components of training in cardiovascular disease epidemiology and prevention.
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Nachega JB, Ntsekhe M, Volmink J, Thabane L. Advancing global health through cardiovascular research, mentorship, and capacity building: in memoriam, professor Bongani Mayosi (1967–2018). Pilot Feasibility Stud 2018. [PMCID: PMC6169106 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-018-0348-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
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Ebrahim S, Davey Smith G. Who needs editors? The epidemiology of publications in the IJE. Int J Epidemiol 2018; 47:1020-1022. [DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyy143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shah Ebrahim
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Davids MR, Caskey FJ, Young T, Balbir Singh GK. Strengthening Renal Registries and ESRD Research in Africa. Semin Nephrol 2018; 37:211-223. [PMID: 28532551 DOI: 10.1016/j.semnephrol.2017.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In Africa, the combination of noncommunicable diseases, infectious diseases, exposure to environmental toxins, and acute kidney injury related to trauma and childbirth are driving an epidemic of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Good registry data can inform the planning of renal services and can be used to argue for better resource allocation, audit the delivery and quality of care, and monitor the impact of interventions. Few African countries have established renal registries and most have failed owing to resource constraints. In this article we briefly review the burden of chronic kidney disease and ESRD in Africa, and then consider the research questions that could be addressed by renal registries. We describe examples of the impact of registry data and summarize the sparse primary literature on country-wide renal replacement therapy in African countries over the past 20 years. Finally, we highlight some initiatives and opportunities for strengthening research on ESRD and renal replacement therapy in Africa. These include the establishment of the African Renal Registry and the availability of new areas for research. We also discuss capacity building, collaboration, open-access publication, and the strengthening of local journals, all measures that may improve the quantity, visibility, and impact of African research outputs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Razeen Davids
- Division of Nephrology, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Fergus J Caskey
- UK Renal Registry and University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Taryn Young
- Centre for Evidence Based Healthcare, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gillian K Balbir Singh
- Division of Nephrology, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Manabe YC, Nambooze H, Okello ES, Kamya MR, Katabira ET, Ssinabulya I, Kaddumukasa M, Nabunnya Y, Bollinger RC, Sewankambo NK. Group Mentorship Model to Enhance the Efficiency and Productivity of PhD Research Training in Sub-Saharan Africa. Ann Glob Health 2018; 84:170-175. [PMID: 30873808 PMCID: PMC6748251 DOI: 10.29024/aogh.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION High quality PhD training in sub-Saharan Africa is important to strengthen research evidence to advance development and health. Training a critical mass of independent investigators capable of original scientific research requires strong mentorship, research environments, and international networks. We sought to iteratively improve a PhD training model in Uganda through systems capacity building. METHODS PhD students were selected through a rigorous competitive application and selection process, which included a written proposal and a face-to-face panel interview. The program provided administrative support, paid tuition fees, tools (space, equipment, research money), skills (short research courses on study design, biostatistics, manuscript and grant writing), and infrastructure (finance, grants management support, and lab infrastructure). Guidance to identify local and international mentorship was also provided in addition to two to three group meetings per year where data was presented and progress assessed by the program leaders in addition to available local mentors. RESULTS Seventeen PhD students were selected, and fifteen will complete training through the MEPI-MESAU program. To date, 60% have completed, including 2 students who started 2 years into the program. So far, 169 publications have been published in the peer-reviewed literature. Our PhD students have supervised and mentored 65 Master's students, which illustrates the cascade effect of PhD training on the academic medical school environment. CONCLUSIONS The systems capacity building approach to PhD training is an efficient and productive training model that allowed strong outputs at lower cost and with relatively few additional mentors to rapidly achieve a critical mass of independent scientists able to conduct original research and mentor others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukari C Manabe
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, US
| | - Harriet Nambooze
- MEPI-MESAU Secretariat, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, UG
| | - Elialilia S Okello
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
| | - Moses R Kamya
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
| | - Elly T Katabira
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
| | - Isaac Ssinabulya
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
| | - Mark Kaddumukasa
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
| | - Yvonne Nabunnya
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
| | - Robert C Bollinger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, US
| | - Nelson K Sewankambo
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
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Gatsi S, Strange M, Dufton A, Williams P, Addo J. Driving a greater understanding of non-communicable diseases in Africa through collaborative research: the experience of the GSK Africa NCD Open Lab. JOURNAL OF GLOBAL HEALTH REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.29392/joghr.2.e2018012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Hiatt RA, Engmann NJ, Ahmed M, Amarsi Y, Macharia WM, Macfarlane SB, Ngugi AK, Rabbani F, Walraven G, Armstrong RW. Population Health Science: A Core Element of Health Science Education in Sub-Saharan Africa. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2017; 92:462-467. [PMID: 27508343 PMCID: PMC5367502 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000001320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Sub-Saharan Africa suffers an inordinate burden of disease and does not have the numbers of suitably trained health care workers to address this challenge. New concepts in health sciences education are needed to offer alternatives to current training approaches.A perspective of integrated training in population health for undergraduate medical and nursing education is advanced, rather than continuing to take separate approaches for clinical and public health education. Population health science educates students in the social and environmental origins of disease, thus complementing disease-specific training and providing opportunities for learners to take the perspective of the community as a critical part of their education.Many of the recent initiatives in health science education in sub-Saharan Africa are reviewed, and two case studies of innovative change in undergraduate medical education are presented that begin to incorporate such population health thinking. The focus is on East Africa, one of the most rapidly growing economies in sub-Saharan Africa where opportunities for change in health science education are opening. The authors conclude that a focus on population health is a timely and effective way for enhancing training of health care professionals to reduce the burden of disease in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A. Hiatt
- R.A. Hiatt is professor and chair, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, and director of population sciences and associate director, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Natalie J. Engmann
- N.J. Engmann is a doctoral student, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Mushtaq Ahmed
- M. Ahmed is professor and associate dean of medical education, Aga Khan University, Faculty of Health Sciences–East Africa, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Yasmin Amarsi
- Y. Amarsi is professor and dean, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Aga Khan University, Faculty of Health Sciences–East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - William M. Macharia
- W.M. Macharia is professor and chair, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Faculty of Health Sciences–East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah B. Macfarlane
- S.B. Macfarlane is professor, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, and visiting professor, Aga Khan University, Faculty of Health Sciences–East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anthony K. Ngugi
- A.K. Ngugi is assistant professor, Aga Khan University, Faculty of Health Sciences–East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Fauziah Rabbani
- F. Rabbani is professor and chair, Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University–Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Gijs Walraven
- G. Walraven is honorary professor, Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University–Karachi, Pakistan, and director for health, Aga Khan Development Network, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Robert W. Armstrong
- R.W. Armstrong is professor and dean of the medical college, Aga Khan University, Faculty of Health Sciences–East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
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Series: Clinical Epidemiology in South Africa. Paper 3: Logic models help make sense of complexity in systematic reviews and health technology assessments. J Clin Epidemiol 2017; 83:37-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Young T, Naude C, Brodovcky T, Esterhuizen T. Building capacity in Clinical Epidemiology in Africa: experiences from Masters programmes. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2017; 17:46. [PMID: 28241762 PMCID: PMC5327556 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-017-0885-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To describe and contrast programmatic offering of Clinical Epidemiology Masters programmes in Africa, to evaluate experiences of graduates and faculty, and assess if graduates are playing roles in research, practice and teaching of Clinical Epidemiology. METHODS We searched and identified relevant programmes, reviewed programmatic documentation, interviewed convenors and surveyed graduates. Participants provided informed consent, interviews with faculty were recorded and transcribed for analysis purposes, and graduates participated in an online survey. RESULTS Five structured Masters programmes requiring health science professionals to complete modules and research projects were assessed. Demand for programmes was high. Graduates enjoyed the variety of modules, preferred blended teaching, and regarded assessments as fair. Graduates felt that career paths were not obvious after graduating. Despite this, some have gone on to promote and teach evidence-based health care, and conduct and disseminate research. Areas of concern raised by faculty were quality assurance; research project initiation, implementation and supervisory capacity; staff availability; funding to support implementation and lack of experiential learning. CONCLUSION Although faced with challenges, these programmes build capacity of health professionals to practice in an evidence-informed way, and conduct rigorous research, which are central to advancing the practice of Clinical Epidemiology in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taryn Young
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Celeste Naude
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tania Brodovcky
- Research Development and Support, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tonya Esterhuizen
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Franzen SRP, Chandler C, Lang T. Health research capacity development in low and middle income countries: reality or rhetoric? A systematic meta-narrative review of the qualitative literature. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e012332. [PMID: 28131997 PMCID: PMC5278257 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Locally led health research in low and middle income countries (LMICs) is critical for overcoming global health challenges. Yet, despite over 25 years of international efforts, health research capacity in LMICs remains insufficient and development attempts continue to be fragmented. The aim of this systematic review is to identify and critically examine the main approaches and trends in health research capacity development and consolidate key thinking to identify a more coherent approach. METHODS This review includes academic and grey literature published between January 2000 and July 2013. Using a predetermined search strategy, we systematically searched PubMed, hand-searched Google Scholar and checked reference lists. This process yielded 1668 papers. 240 papers were selected based on a priori criteria. A modified version of meta-narrative synthesis was used to analyse the papers. RESULTS 3 key narratives were identified: the effect of power relations on capacity development; demand for stronger links between research, policy and practice and the importance of a systems approach. Capacity development was delivered through 4 main modalities: vertical research projects, centres of excellence, North-South partnerships and networks; all were controversial, and each had their strengths and weaknesses. A plurality of development strategies was employed to address specific barriers to health research. However, lack of empirical research and monitoring and evaluation meant that their effectiveness was unclear and learning was weak. CONCLUSIONS There has been steady progress in LMIC health research capacity, but major barriers to research persist and more empirical evidence on development strategies is required. Despite an evolution in development thinking, international actors continue to use outdated development models that are recognised as ineffective. To realise newer development thinking, research capacity outcomes need to be equally valued as research outputs. While some development actors are now adopting this dedicated capacity development approach, they are in the minority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel R P Franzen
- The Global Health Network, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Policy Management, Oxford, UK
| | - Clare Chandler
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Trudie Lang
- The Global Health Network, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Public Health in Africa: Theoretical Framework. HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES ON THE STATE OF HEALTH AND HEALTH SYSTEMS IN AFRICA, VOLUME I 2017. [PMCID: PMC7123320 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-32461-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Sam-Agudu NA, Paintsil E, Aliyu MH, Kwara A, Ogunsola F, Afrane YA, Onoka C, Awandare GA, Amponsah G, Cornelius LJ, Mendy G, Sturke R, Ghansah A, Siberry GK, Ezeanolue EE. Building Sustainable Local Capacity for Global Health Research in West Africa. Ann Glob Health 2016; 82:1010-1025. [PMID: 28314488 DOI: 10.1016/j.aogh.2016.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global health research in resource-limited countries has been largely sponsored and led by foreign institutions. Thus, these countries' training capacity and productivity in global health research is limited. Local participation at all levels of global health knowledge generation promotes equitable access to evidence-based solutions. Additionally, leadership inclusive of competent local professionals promotes best outcomes for local contextualization and implementation of successful global health solutions. Among the sub-Saharan African regions, West Africa in particular lags in research infrastructure, productivity, and impact in global health research. OBJECTIVE In this paper, experts discuss strategies for scaling up West Africa's participation in global health evidence generation using examples from Ghana and Nigeria. METHODS We conducted an online and professional network search to identify grants awarded for global health research and research education in Ghana and Nigeria. Principal investigators, global health educators, and representatives of funding institutions were invited to add their knowledge and expertise with regard to strengthening research capacity in West Africa. FINDINGS While there has been some progress in obtaining foreign funding, foreign institutions still dominate local research. Local research funding opportunities in the 2 countries were found to be insufficient, disjointed, poorly sustained, and inadequately publicized, indicating weak infrastructure. As a result, research training programs produce graduates who ultimately fail to launch independent investigator careers because of lack of mentoring and poor infrastructural support. CONCLUSIONS Research funding and training opportunities in Ghana and Nigeria remain inadequate. RECOMMENDATIONS We recommend systems-level changes in mentoring, collaboration, and funding to drive the global health research agenda in these countries. Additionally, research training programs should be evaluated not only by numbers of individuals graduated but also by numbers of independent investigators and grants funded. Through equitable collaborations, infrastructure, and mentoring, West Africa can match the rest of Africa in impactful global health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia A Sam-Agudu
- Institute of Human Virology and Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; International Research Center of Excellence, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria; Department of Paediatrics, University of Cape Coast School of Medical Sciences, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - Elijah Paintsil
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Muktar H Aliyu
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, TN; Department of Preventive Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Awewura Kwara
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL
| | - Folasade Ogunsola
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Yaw A Afrane
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Chima Onoka
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Gordon A Awandare
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Gladys Amponsah
- School of Anaesthesia, Ridge Regional Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Rachel Sturke
- Division of International Policy, Planning, and Evaluation and Center for Global Health Studies, Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Anita Ghansah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Legon, Ghana
| | | | - Echezona E Ezeanolue
- School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV; College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
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Zweigenthal VEM, Marquez E, London L. 'Why do an MPH?' Motivations and intentions of physicians undertaking postgraduate public health training at the University of Cape Town. Glob Health Action 2016; 9:32735. [PMID: 27741958 PMCID: PMC5065692 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v9.32735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 08/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Public health (PH) approaches underpin the management and transformation of health systems in low- and middle-income countries. Despite the Master of Public Health (MPH) rarely being a prerequisite for health service employment in South Africa, many physicians pursue MPH qualifications. Objectives This study identifies their motivations and career intentions and explored MPH programme strengths and gaps in under- and post-graduate PH training. Design A cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire was completed by physicians graduating with an MPH between 2000 and 2009 and those enrolled in the programme in 2010 at the University of Cape Town. Results Nearly a quarter of MPH students were physicians. Of the 65 contactable physicians, 48% responded. They were mid-career physicians who wished to obtain research training (55%), who wished to gain broader perspectives on health (32%), and who used the MPH to advance careers (90%) as researchers, policy-makers, or managers. The MPH widened professional opportunities, with 62% changing jobs. They believed that inadequate undergraduate exposure should be remedied by applying PH approaches to clinical problems in community settings, which would increase the attractiveness of postgraduate PH training. Conclusions The MPH allows physicians to transition from pure clinical to research, policy and/or management work, preparing them to innovate changes for effective health systems, responsive to the health needs of populations. Limited local job options and incentives are important constraining factors. Advocacy for positions requiring qualifications and benchmarking exit competencies of programmes nationally may promote enrolment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia E M Zweigenthal
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa;
| | - Emma Marquez
- Formerly an international exchange scholar at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Leslie London
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Atkins S, Marsden S, Diwan V, Zwarenstein M. North-south collaboration and capacity development in global health research in low- and middle-income countries - the ARCADE projects. Glob Health Action 2016; 9:30524. [PMID: 27725081 PMCID: PMC5057000 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v9.30524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Research capacity enhancement is needed in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) for improved health, wellbeing, and health systems’ development. In this article, we discuss two capacity-building projects, the African/Asian Regional Capacity Development (ARCADE) in Health Systems and Services Research (HSSR) and Research on Social Determinants of Health (RSDH), implemented from 2011 to 2015. The two projects focussed on providing courses in HSSR and social determinants of health research, and on developing collaborations between universities, along with capacity in LMIC universities to manage research grant submissions, financing, and reporting. Both face-to-face and sustainable online teaching and learning resources were used in training at higher postgraduate levels (Masters and Doctoral level). Design We collated project meeting and discussion minutes along with project periodic reports and deliverables. We extracted key outcomes from these, reflected on these in discussions, and summarised them for this paper. Results Nearly 55 courses and modules were developed that were delivered to over 920 postgraduate students in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Junior researchers were mentored in presenting, developing, and delivering courses, and in preparing research proposals. In total, 60 collaborative funding proposals were prepared. The consortia also developed institutional capacity in research dissemination and grants management through webinars and workshops. Discussion ARCADE HSSR and ARCADE RSDH were comprehensive programmes, focussing on developing the research skills, knowledge, and capabilities of junior researchers. One of the main strengths of these programmes was the focus on network building amongst the partner institutions, where each partner brought skills, expertise, and diverse work cultures into the consortium. Through these efforts, the projects improved both the capacity of junior researchers and the research environment in Africa, Asia, and Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salla Atkins
- Department of Public Health Sciences (Global Health/IHCAR), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Vishal Diwan
- Department of Public Health Sciences (Global Health/IHCAR), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Public Health and Environment, R.D. Gardi Medical College, Ujjain, India.,International Centre for Health Research, Ujjain Charitable Trust Hospital and Research Centre, Ujjain, India
| | - Merrick Zwarenstein
- Department of Family Medicine, Centre for Studies in Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Merigó JM, Núñez A. Influential journals in health research: a bibliometric study. Global Health 2016; 12:46. [PMID: 27550071 PMCID: PMC4994291 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-016-0186-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a wide range of intellectual work written about health research, which has been shaped by the evolution of diseases. This study aims to identify the leading journals over the last 25 years (1990–2014) according to a wide range of bibliometric indicators. Methods The study develops a bibliometric overview of all the journals that are currently indexed in Web of Science (WoS) database in any of the four categories connected to health research. The work classifies health research in nine subfields: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health, Health Management and Economics, Health Promotion and Health Behavior, Epidemiology, Health Policy and Services, Medicine, Health Informatics, Engineering and Technology, and Primary Care. Results The results indicate a wide dispersion between categories being the American Journal of Epidemiology, Environmental Health Perspectives, American Journal of Public Health, and Social Science & Medicine, the journals that have received the highest number of citations over the last 25 years. According to other indicators such as the h-index and the citations per paper, some other journals such as the Annual Review of Public Health and Medical Care, obtain better results which show the wide diversity and profiles of outlets available in the scientific community. The results are grouped and studied according to the nine subfields in order to identify the leading journals in each specific sub discipline of health. Conclusions The work identifies the leading journals in health research through a bibliometric approach. The analysis shows a deep overview of the results of health journals. It is worth noting that many journals have entered the WoS database during the last years, in many cases to fill some specific niche that has emerged in the literature, although the most popular ones have been in the database for a long time. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12992-016-0186-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Merigó
- Department of Management Control and Information Systems, School of Economics and Business, Universidad de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 257, Office 2004, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alicia Núñez
- Department of Management Control and Information Systems, School of Economics and Business, Universidad de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 257, Office 2004, Santiago, Chile.
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Dossou JP, Assarag B, Delamou A, Van der Veken K, Belaid L, Ouédraogo M, Khalfallah S, Aouras H, Diadhiou M, Fassassi R, Delvaux T. Switching the poles in sexual and reproductive health research: implementing a research capacity-strengthening network in West and North Africa. Reprod Health 2016; 13:91. [PMID: 27502593 PMCID: PMC4977648 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-016-0203-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Health research capacities have been improved in Africa but still remain weak as compared to other regions of the World. To strengthen these research capacities, international collaboration and networking for knowledge and capacity transfer are needed. In this commentary, we present the Network for Scientific Support in the field of Sexual and Reproductive Health in West and North Africa, its priority research topics and discuss its implementation process. Established in January 2014, the Network aims at generating human rights and gender-based research fully carried out and driven by South based institutions. It is composed of 12 institutions including the Institute of Tropical Medicine of Antwerp (Belgium) and 11 institutions from eight Francophone West and North African countries. The key areas of interest of this network are health policies analysis and health system research in family planning, HIV prevention among vulnerable groups, quality of care and breast cancers. Since it started, seventeen research proposals based on locally relevant research questions have been developed. Among the seventeen proposals, eleven have been implemented. Several research institutions enhanced linkages with local representations of international partners such as UNFPA. The network is committed to strengthening methodological research capacities and soft skills such as fundraising, advocacy and leadership. Such competencies are strongly needed for developing an effective South-based leadership in Sexual and Reproductive Health research, and for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Paul Dossou
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Humaine et en Démographie, CNHU/HKM, Avenue Jean-Paul, Cotonou, Benin. .,Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalstraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Bouchra Assarag
- Ecole Nationale de Santé Publique, Rue Lamfadel Cherkaoui, Madinat Al Irfane, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Alexandre Delamou
- Centre National de Formation et de Recherche en Santé Rurale de Mafèrinyah, Forécariah, Guinée.,Woman and Child Health Research Centre, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalstraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Karen Van der Veken
- Woman and Child Health Research Centre, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalstraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Loubna Belaid
- Woman and Child Health Research Centre, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalstraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.,École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal, 7101 Av du Parc H3N1X9, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Moctar Ouédraogo
- Agence de Formation, de Recherche et d'Expertise en Santé pour l'Afrique, 773, Rue Guillaume Ouédraogo, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Sonia Khalfallah
- Direction Régionale de la Santé de Nabeul, Rue de la Révolution, Nabeul, Tunisie
| | - Hayet Aouras
- Registre des Cancers d'Annaba, Université d'Annaba, CHU, Annaba, Algérie
| | - Mohamed Diadhiou
- Centre Régional de Formation, de Recherche et de Plaidoyer en Santé de la Reproduction, Maternité Hôpital Aristide Le Dantec, Avenue Pasteur, Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Raïmi Fassassi
- Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Statistique et d'Economie Appliquée, Boulevard Mitterrand, Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Thérèse Delvaux
- Woman and Child Health Research Centre, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalstraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
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Series: Clinical Epidemiology in South Africa. Paper 1: Evidence-based health care and policy in Africa: past, present, and future. J Clin Epidemiol 2016; 83:24-30. [PMID: 27349186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2016.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Africa has high disease burden and health system challenges but is making progress in recognizing, accepting, and adopting evidence-based health care (EBHC). In this article, we reflect on the developments of the past 2 decades and consider further steps that will help with the translation of reliable research results into the decision making process. There has been a rapid growth in various initiatives to promote EBHC in the African region. These include the conduct and reporting of primary and secondary research, research capacity development and supportive initiatives, access to information, and work with decision makers in getting research into clinical guidelines and health policies. Much, however, still needs to be done to improve the impact on health in the region. A multipronged approach consisting of regionally relevant well-conducted research addressing priority health problems, increased uptake of research in health care policy and practice, dedicated capacity development initiatives to support the conduct as well as use of research, facilitated by wider collaboration, and equitable partnerships will be important. Working together in mutually supporting partnerships is key to advancing both evidence-informed health care practices and better health.
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The West African Health Organization's experience in improving the health research environment in the ECOWAS region. Health Res Policy Syst 2016; 14:30. [PMID: 27098359 PMCID: PMC4839069 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-016-0102-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The West African Health Organization (WAHO) implemented a research development program in West Africa during 2009-2013 using the Knowledge for Better Health Research Capacity Development Framework, developed by Pang et al. (Bull World Health Organ 81(11):815-820, 2003), on strategies used to improve the research environment. The framework has the following components: stewardship, financing, sustainable resourcing and research utilization. This paper describes how WAHO implemented this research development program in the West African region to help improve the research environment and lessons learnt. METHODS This is a retrospective review of the regional research development program using a triangulation of activity reports, an independent evaluation and the authors' experiences with stakeholders. This program was designed to address gaps along the components of the framework and to improve partnership. The activities, results and challenges are summarised for each component of the framework. The independent evaluation was conducted using over 180 semi-structured interviews of key stakeholders in the West African region and activity reports. WAHO and major stakeholders validated these findings during a regional meeting. RESULTS All 15 ECOWAS countries benefited from this regional research development program. WAHO provided technical and financial support to eight countries to develop their policies, priorities and plans for research development to improve their research governance. WAHO, along with other technical and financial partners, organised many capacity-strengthening trainings in health systems research methodology, resource mobilization, ethical oversight and on HRWeb, a research information management platform. WAHO helped launch a regional network of health research institutions to improve collaboration between regional participating institutions. Further, WAHO developed strategic research partnerships and mobilised additional funding to support the program. The program supported 24 health research projects. High staff turnover, weak institutional capacities and ineffective collaboration were some of the challenges encountered during program activity implementation. CONCLUSION The regional collaborative approach to health research development using this framework was effective given the challenges in the West African region. The achievements particularly with improved research partnerships and funding helped strengthen local health research environments. This highlights WAHO's role and the common experiences in the West African region in improving health research.
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Zachariah R, Kumar AMV, Reid AJ, Van den Bergh R, Isaakidis P, Draguez B, Delaunois P, Nagaraja SB, Ramsay A, Reeder JC, Denisiuk O, Ali E, Khogali M, Hinderaker SG, Kosgei RJ, van Griensven J, Quaglio GL, Maher D, Billo NE, Terry RF, Harries AD. Open access for operational research publications from low- and middle-income countries: who pays? Public Health Action 2015; 4:142-4. [PMID: 26400799 DOI: 10.5588/pha.14.0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Open-access journal publications aim to ensure that new knowledge is widely disseminated and made freely accessible in a timely manner so that it can be used to improve people's health, particularly those in low- and middle-income countries. In this paper, we briefly explain the differences between closed- and open-access journals, including the evolving idea of the 'open-access spectrum'. We highlight the potential benefits of supporting open access for operational research, and discuss the conundrum and ways forward as regards who pays for open access.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Zachariah
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Operational Centre Brussels, Medical Department, Operations Research Unit (LUXOR), MSF-Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - A M V Kumar
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union), South-East Asia Office, New Delhi, India
| | - A J Reid
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Operational Centre Brussels, Medical Department, Operations Research Unit (LUXOR), MSF-Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - R Van den Bergh
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Operational Centre Brussels, Medical Department, Operations Research Unit (LUXOR), MSF-Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | | | - B Draguez
- MSF, Medical Department, Brussels Operational Center, Belgium
| | - P Delaunois
- MSF, General Direction, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - S B Nagaraja
- Department of Community Medicine, Employees State Insurance Corporation Medical College and Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Bangalore, India
| | - A Ramsay
- United Nations Children's Fund/United Nations Development Programme/World Bank/World Health Organization Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland ; University of St Andrews Medical School, Scotland, UK
| | - J C Reeder
- United Nations Children's Fund/United Nations Development Programme/World Bank/World Health Organization Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - O Denisiuk
- International HIV/AIDS Alliance, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - E Ali
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Operational Centre Brussels, Medical Department, Operations Research Unit (LUXOR), MSF-Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - M Khogali
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Operational Centre Brussels, Medical Department, Operations Research Unit (LUXOR), MSF-Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - S G Hinderaker
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - R J Kosgei
- University of Nairobi, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - G L Quaglio
- Science and Technology Option Assessment (STOA), Directorate-General for Parliamentary Research Services (EPRS), European Parliament, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - N E Billo
- The Union, Centre for Operational Research, Paris, France
| | - R F Terry
- United Nations Children's Fund/United Nations Development Programme/World Bank/World Health Organization Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - A D Harries
- The Union, Centre for Operational Research, Paris, France ; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Kalita A, Shinde S, Patel V. Public health research in India in the new millennium: a bibliometric analysis. Glob Health Action 2015; 8:27576. [PMID: 26282573 PMCID: PMC4539388 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v8.27576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Revised: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public health research has gained increasing importance in India's national health policy as the country seeks to address the high burden of disease and its inequitable distribution, and embarks on an ambitious agenda towards universalising health care. OBJECTIVE This study aimed at describing the public health research output in India, its focus and distribution, and the actors involved in the research system. It makes recommendations for systematically promoting and strengthening public health research in the country. DESIGN The study was a bibliometric analysis of PubMed and IndMed databases for years 2000-2010. The bibliometric data were analysed in terms of biomedical focus based on the Global Burden of Disease, location of research, research institutions, and funding agencies. RESULTS A total of 7,893 eligible articles were identified over the 11-year search period. The annual research output increased by 42% between 2000 and 2010. In total, 60.8% of the articles were related to communicable diseases, newborn, maternal, and nutritional causes, comparing favourably with the burden of these causes (39.1%). While the burdens from non-communicable diseases and injuries were 50.2 and 10.7%, respectively, only 31.9 and 7.5% of articles reported research for these conditions. The north-eastern states and the Empowered-Action-Group states of India were the most under-represented for location of research. In total, 67.2% of papers involved international collaborations and 49.2% of these collaborations were with institutions in the UK or USA; 35.4% of the publications involved international funding and 71.2% of funders were located in the UK or USA. CONCLUSIONS While public health research output in India has increased significantly, there are marked inequities in relation to the burden of disease and the geographic distribution of research. Systematic priority setting, adequate funding, and institutional capacity building are needed to address these inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuska Kalita
- Department of Population Health, IKP Trust, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Vikram Patel
- Sangath, Goa, India
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Public Health Foundation of India, New Delhi, India;
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Machekano R, Young T, Rusakaniko S, Musonda P, Sartorius B, Todd J, Fegan G, Thabane L, Chikte U. The Africa Center for Biostatistical Excellence: a proposal for enhancing biostatistics capacity for sub-Saharan Africa. Stat Med 2015; 34:3481-9. [PMID: 26137996 DOI: 10.1002/sim.6572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Sub-Saharan Africa has a shortage of well-trained biomedical research methodologists, in particular, biostatisticians. In July 2014, a group of biostatisticians and researchers from the region attended a brainstorming workshop to identify ways in which to reduce the deficit in this critical skill. The workshop recognized that recommendations from previous workshops on building biostatistics capacity in sub-Saharan Africa had not been implemented. The discussions culminated with a proposal to setup an Africa Center for Biostatistical Excellence, a collaborative effort across academic and researcher institutions within the region, as a vehicle for promoting biostatistics capacity building through specialized academic masters programs as well as regular workshops targeting researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhoderick Machekano
- Biostatistics Unit, Center for Evidence-based Health Care, Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Taryn Young
- Center for Evidence Based Health Care, Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Patrick Musonda
- Department of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ben Sartorius
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Jim Todd
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, U.K
| | - Greg Fegan
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, U.K
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Usuf Chikte
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Sambo MDR, Ferreira AVL. Current status on health sciences research productivity pertaining to Angola up to 2014. Health Res Policy Syst 2015; 13:32. [PMID: 26126605 PMCID: PMC4486127 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-015-0021-z] [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: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health research driven by the healthcare demands of the population can provide an informative evidence base to support decision-making processes on health policies, programmes, and practices. This paper surveyed the production of scientific research concerning health in Angola, specifically to access the publication rate over time, the main research topics and scientific fields, and the contribution of Angolan researchers and institutions. Methods The study focused on data collected in a retrospective literature search in Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) as of June 8, 2014, with the keyword “Angola” and on content information in correspondent publications deposited in PubMed. Results BVS generated 1,029 hits, 74.6 % of which were deposited in PubMed where 301 abstracts were described. From 1979 to 2003, there were 62 publications and in 2004–2013 the quantity increased four-fold (n = 232); malaria was the most frequent topic (n = 42). Angola was the country with the largest number of publications, taking into account the primary affiliation of the first author (n = 45). Universities, institutes, or research centres accounted for 65 % of the publications and in descending order Portugal, Brazil, and the United States of America occupied the three first positions. Epidemiology was by far the most frequent field of research (n = 165). Conclusions The number of publications has increased steadily over the past 10 years, with predominance on malaria topics. Angola was the country with the largest number of major affiliations of the first author, but the contribution of Angolan institutions was relatively low, indicating a need to reinforce academic research institutions in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria do Rosário Sambo
- Faculty of Medicine of Universidade Katyavala Bwila, Rua Sociedade de Geografia, Benguela, Angola.
| | - Albano V L Ferreira
- Faculty of Medicine of Universidade Katyavala Bwila, Rua Sociedade de Geografia, Benguela, Angola
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Elliott A, Nerima B, Bagaya B, Kambugu A, Joloba M, Cose S, Pantaleo G, Yazdanbakhsh M, Mabey D, Dunne D, Moffett A, Rwakishaya EK, Kaleebu P, Mbidde EK. Capacity for science in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet 2015; 385:2435-7. [PMID: 26122054 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(15)61111-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Elliott
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | | | - Bernard Bagaya
- Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Medical Microbiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Andrew Kambugu
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Joloba
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Stephen Cose
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - David Mabey
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - David Dunne
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eli Katunguka Rwakishaya
- Makerere University Directorate of Research and Graduate Studies, Kampala, Uganda; Kyambogo University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
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Mugabo L, Rouleau D, Odhiambo J, Nisingizwe MP, Amoroso C, Barebwanuwe P, Warugaba C, Habumugisha L, Hedt-Gauthier BL. Approaches and impact of non-academic research capacity strengthening training models in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. Health Res Policy Syst 2015; 13:30. [PMID: 26055974 PMCID: PMC4464866 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-015-0017-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Research is essential to identify and prioritize health needs and to develop appropriate strategies to improve health outcomes. In the last decade, non-academic research capacity strengthening trainings in sub-Saharan Africa, coupled with developing research infrastructure and the provision of individual mentorship support, has been used to build health worker skills. The objectives of this review are to describe different training approaches to research capacity strengthening in sub-Saharan Africa outside academic programs, assess methods used to evaluate research capacity strengthening activities, and learn about the challenges facing research capacity strengthening and the strategies/innovations required to overcome them. Methodology The PubMed database was searched using nine search terms and articles were included if 1) they explicitly described research capacity strengthening training activities, including information on program duration, target audience, immediate program outputs and outcomes; 2) all or part of the training program took place in sub-Saharan African countries; 3) the training activities were not a formal academic program; 4) papers were published between 2000 and 2013; and 5) both abstract and full paper were available in English. Results The search resulted in 495 articles, of which 450 were retained; 14 papers met all inclusion criteria and were included and analysed. In total, 4136 people were trained, of which 2939 were from Africa. Of the 14 included papers, six fell in the category of short-term evaluation period and eight in the long-term evaluation period. Conduct of evaluations and use of evaluation frameworks varied between short and long term models and some trainings were not evaluated. Evaluation methods included tests, surveys, interviews, and systems approach matrix. Conclusions Research capacity strengthening activities in sub-Saharan Africa outside of academic settings provide important contributions to developing in-country capacity to participate in and lead research. Institutional support, increased funds, and dedicated time for research activities are critical factors that lead to the development of successful programs. Further, knowledge sharing through scientific articles with sufficient detail is needed to enable replication of successful models in other settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lambert Mugabo
- Partners In Health-Inshuti Mu Buzima, P.O. Box 3432, Kigali, Rwanda. .,Global Health Corps, One Penn Plaza, Suite 6271, New York, NY, 10119, USA.
| | - Dominique Rouleau
- Partners In Health-Inshuti Mu Buzima, P.O. Box 3432, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Jackline Odhiambo
- Partners In Health-Inshuti Mu Buzima, P.O. Box 3432, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | | | - Cheryl Amoroso
- Partners In Health-Inshuti Mu Buzima, P.O. Box 3432, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Peter Barebwanuwe
- Partners In Health-Inshuti Mu Buzima, P.O. Box 3432, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | | | | | - Bethany L Hedt-Gauthier
- Partners In Health-Inshuti Mu Buzima, P.O. Box 3432, Kigali, Rwanda. .,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 641 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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Kirigia JM, Kathyola DD, Muula AS, Ota MMO. National health research system in Malawi: dead, moribund, tepid or flourishing? BMC Health Serv Res 2015; 15:126. [PMID: 25889757 PMCID: PMC4392748 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-015-0796-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several instruments at both the global and regional levels to which countries in the WHO African Region are party call for action by governments to strengthen national health research systems (NHRS). This paper debates the extent to which Malawi has fulfilled this commitment. DISCUSSION Some research literature has characterized African research - and by implication NHRS - as moribund. In our view, the Malawi government, with partner support, has made effort to strengthen the capacities of individuals and institutions that generate scientific knowledge. This is reflected in the Malawi national NHRS index (MNSR4HI) of 51%, which is within the 50%-69% range, and thus, it should be characterized as tepid with significant potential to flourish. Governance of research for health (R4H) has improved with the promulgation of the Malawi Science and Technology Act in 2003. However, lack of an explicit R4H policy, a strategic plan and a national R4H management forum undermines the government's effectiveness in overseeing the operation of the NHRS. The mean index of 'governance of R4H' sub-functions was 67%, implying that research governance is tepid. Malawi has a national health research focal point, an R4H program, and four public and 11 private universities. The average index of 'creating and sustaining resources' sub-functions was 48.6%, meaning that R4H human and infrastructural resources can be considered to be in a moribund state. The average index of 'producing and using research' sub-functions of 50.4% implies that production and utilization of research findings in policy development and public health practice can best be described as tepid. Efforts need to be intensified to boost national research productivity. Over the five financial years 2011-2016 the government plans to spend 0.26% of its total health budget on R4H. The mean index of 'financing' sub-functions of 23.6% is within the range of 1-49%, which is considered moribund. A functional NHRS is a prerequisite for the achievement of the health system goal of universal health coverage. Malawi, like majority of African countries, needs to invest more in strengthening R4H governance, developing and sustaining R4H resources, and producing and using research findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joses Muthuri Kirigia
- Research, Publications and Library Services Programme, Health Systems and Services Cluster, World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo.
| | | | - Adamson S Muula
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Martin Matthew Okechukwu Ota
- Research, Publications and Library Services Programme, Health Systems and Services Cluster, World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo.
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Uthman OA, Wiysonge CS, Ota MO, Nicol M, Hussey GD, Ndumbe PM, Mayosi BM. Increasing the value of health research in the WHO African Region beyond 2015--reflecting on the past, celebrating the present and building the future: a bibliometric analysis. BMJ Open 2015; 5:e006340. [PMID: 25770227 PMCID: PMC4360830 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-006340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the profile and determinants of health research productivity in Africa since the onset of the new millennium. DESIGN Bibliometric analysis. DATA COLLECTION AND SYNTHESIS In November 2014, we searched PubMed for articles published between 2000 and 2014 from the WHO African Region, and obtained country-level indicators from World Bank data. We used Poisson regression to examine time trends in research publications and negative binomial regression to explore determinants of research publications. RESULTS We identified 107,662 publications, with a median of 727 per country (range 25-31,757). Three countries (South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya) contributed 52% of the publications. The number of publications increased from 3623 in 2000 to 12,709 in 2014 (relative growth 251%). Similarly, the per cent share of worldwide research publications per year increased from 0.7% in 2000 to 1.3% in 2014. The trend analysis was also significant to confirm a continuous increase in health research publications from Africa, with productivity increasing by 10.3% per year (95% CIs +10.1% to +10.5%). The only independent predictor of publication outputs was national gross domestic product. For every one log US$ billion increase in gross domestic product, research publications rose by 105%: incidence rate ratio (IRR=2.05, 95% CI 1.39 to 3.04). The association of private health expenditure with publications was only marginally significant (IRR=1.86, 95% CI 1.00 to 3.47). CONCLUSIONS There has been a significant improvement in health research in the WHO African Region since 2000, with some individual countries already having strong research profiles. Countries of the region should implement the WHO Strategy on Research for Health: reinforcing the research culture (organisation); focusing research on key health challenges (priorities); strengthening national health research systems (capacity); encouraging good research practice (standards); and consolidating linkages between health research and action (translation).
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Affiliation(s)
- Olalekan A Uthman
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Warwick Centre for Applied Health Research and Delivery (WCAHRD), University of Warwick, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
| | - Charles Shey Wiysonge
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African Cochrane Centre, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Martin O Ota
- Research, Publications, and Library Services, WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Djoue-Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Mark Nicol
- Division of Medical Microbiology & Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gregory D Hussey
- Division of Medical Microbiology & Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter M Ndumbe
- Research, Publications, and Library Services, WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Djoue-Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Bongani M Mayosi
- Department of Medicine, Groote Schuur Hospital & University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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