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Azanu WK, Osarfo J, Appiah G, Godonu YS, Ampofo GD, Orish V, Amoh M, Agbeno EK, Morhe ESK, Gyapong M. Knowledge of female genital schistosomiasis and urinary schistosomiasis among final-year midwifery students in the Volta Region of Ghana. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302554. [PMID: 38696499 PMCID: PMC11065279 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is a gynaecological complication of urinary schistosomiasis (US) with an estimated burden of 20-120 million cases in endemic areas. A neglected sexual and reproductive health disease in sub-Saharan Africa, FGS increases susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections including cervical cancer and infertility among other morbidities. However, there appears to be limited FGS knowledge among practicing and pre-service health providers with implications for control. We assessed FGS awareness among final-year midwifery students who would soon be delivering primary maternal and reproductive health care. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 193 randomly selected final-year students from all three midwifery training institutions in the Volta region of Ghana in August/September, 2022. Data on participants' demographics and knowledge of the transmission, signs and symptoms, complications, treatment and prevention of both FGS and US were collected using structured questionnaires. Summary statistics were presented as frequencies, proportions and percentages. RESULTS Only 23.3% (44/189) of participants had heard about FGS compared to 64% (123/192) for US. Of the former, 42 (95%), 40 (91%) and 36 (81.8%) respectively identified genital itching/burning sensation, bloody vaginal discharge and pelvic pain/pain during intercourse as part of the symptoms of FGS. Less than a third (13/44) and about half (25/44) of those who indicated hearing about FGS knew it can be a risk for ectopic pregnancies and infertility respectively. Majority of these participants, 40 (91%), wrongly selected antibiotics as treatment for FGS while 9 indicated it is prevented by sleeping in insecticide-treated nets. CONCLUSION Awareness of FGS was limited among the study participants. The high prevalence of knowledge of some FGS symptoms related to the genitalia needs cautious interpretation. Health care training institutions must make deliberate efforts to highlight FGS in the training of midwives as the condition has diagnostic and management implications for some sexual and reproductive health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wisdom Klutse Azanu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Joseph Osarfo
- Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Gideon Appiah
- Physician Assistantship Training Programme, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | | | - Gifty Dufie Ampofo
- Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Verner Orish
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Michael Amoh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Evans Kofi Agbeno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Central Region, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Senanu Komla Morhe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Margaret Gyapong
- Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
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Shomuyiwa DO, George NS, Sunday BA, Omotayo FO, Mwaba M, David SC, Nabiryo M, Yangaza Y. Addressing neglected tropical diseases in Africa: A gender perspective. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1726. [PMID: 38028711 PMCID: PMC10654375 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This article delves into the interplay of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within Africa, spotlighting gender disparities in NTD programs. NTDs, impacting marginalized communities, impose considerable physical, mental, and social burdens. The article underscores NTDs as equity markers for SDGs, spotlighting gender-based imbalances in disease susceptibility, treatment accessibility, and health-seeking tendencies. Gender's influence on NTD risks is elucidated, emphasizing the heightened susceptibility of women due to socioeconomic constraints, cultural dynamics, and gender norms. The article also highlights the absence of gender considerations in NTD programs, advocating for gender-integrated strategies, enhanced data collection, and collaborative partnerships to rectify these inequities. By embracing a gender-equity approach, the article underscores the necessity of gender-balanced NTD efforts for comprehensive health, sustainable development, and gender parity, demanding cohesive actions across sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nsikakabasi S. George
- School of Heath and Related ResearchThe University of SheffieldSheffieldUK
- École des hautes études en santé publiqueRennesFrance
| | | | - Faith O. Omotayo
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of NigeriaNsukkaEnuguNigeria
- Department of Public and Community Health ScienceUniversity of the PeopleCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Success C. David
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of NigeriaNsukkaEnuguNigeria
| | - Maxencia Nabiryo
- Integrated Community Health Initiative OrganizationKampalaUganda
- Makerere University School of Public HealthKampalaUganda
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Malibiche D, Mushi V, Justine NC, Silvestri V, Mhamilawa LE, Tarimo D. Prevalence and factors associated with ongoing transmission of Schistosoma haematobium after 12 rounds of Praziquantel Mass Drug Administration among school age children in Southern Tanzania. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2023; 23:e00323. [PMID: 37692460 PMCID: PMC10485624 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2023.e00323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background World Health Organization (WHO) recommends periodic praziquantel Mass Drug Administration (MDA) to vulnerable populations, especially school-aged children, to reduce the risk of transmission. In the S. haematobium endemic Lindi region, on the southeastern coast of Tanzania, praziquantel has been distributed for more than a decade (12 rounds) in schools. However, there is a paucity of data on the current burden and factors perpetuating ongoing urogenital schistosomiasis among SAC. The study investigated the prevalence and factors associated with the ongoing transmission of S. haematobium among school-age children (SAC) after 12 rounds of praziquantel in Nachingwea, Southern Tanzania. Material and methods A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted between May and June 2022 among 483 SAC in the Nachingwea district. Macrohematuria, microhaematuria, and S. haematobium eggs were assessed in the collected urine sample for each participant, using macroscopic observation, urine dipstick, and urine filtration techniques, respectively. Infection intensity was quantified for positive S. haematobium urine samples. Knowledge and attitudes towards schistosomiasis were assessed among participants through an interview-administered questionnaire, and water contact practices were registered through an observation checklist. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics, the Chi-square test, and logistic regression. Results The prevalence of S. haematobium infection was 10.6%, with 0.6% (3/51) prevalence of heavy infection. The factors associated with S. haematobium persistence transmission were a habit of visiting the water bodies (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI: 0.40-1.96), swimming in the visited water bodies (AOR = 4.58, 95% CI: 1.72-12.19), using water from the river source (AOR = 3.79, 95% CI: 1.51-9.51) and attending Mkumba Primary School (17.4%; AOR = 6.12, 95% CI: 1.64-22.85). Conclusions Findings suggest ongoing transmission of urogenital schistosomiasis in the Nachingwea District despite 12 rounds of praziquantel treatment, with a low prevalence of heavy infection (0.6%). Praziquantel distribution should be complemented with health education, especially on the cause and transmission of urogenital schistosomiasis to increase knowledge that will improve a good attitude towards schistosomiasis prevention. An adequate water supply is to be considered to reduce infections due to the visit to water sources for daily use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ditrick Malibiche
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Vivian Mushi
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Zoology and Wildlife Conservation, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Nyanda C. Justine
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Entomology, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Valeria Silvestri
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lwidiko E. Mhamilawa
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Donath Tarimo
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Adhikari S, Hunter E, Vossenberg JVD, Thomas J. A review of latrine front-end characteristics associated with microbial infection risk; reveals a lack of pathogen density data. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 254:114261. [PMID: 37734133 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Unsafe sanitation accounts for an estimated 898,000 global deaths annually. The faecal pathogen transmission pathway is complex with several possible routes. Latrine front-end characteristics and usage behaviours are one key transmission pathway for microbial pathogens, however, there has not yet been a synthesis of the available research. This review aims to compare the microbial infection risks with latrine front-end components including any quantified microbial densities within the household latrines. This review was conducted with no restriction on the geographical location of the research. Of 118 studies reviewed, only ten (8%) have quantified the microbial density inside the household latrines compared to 109 (92%) measuring the infection risks. The reported risks were most frequent for specific bacterial (n = 34), and helminths infections (n = 32) compared to diarrhoea (n = 23), combined (n = 15), protozoan (n = 4), and viral (n = 4) infections. The infections risk decreased for using latrines lying at a higher position on the sanitation ladder (for example flush latrines) compared to those lying lower (for example pit latrines). The trend was similar for using floor materials that were easier to clean and less favourable for pathogen survival inside the latrines (for example, concrete as opposed to earth). Faecal coliforms were reported highest on the surface of the squat pan (743 CFU/cm2) of pour-flush latrines and helminths on earth floors of pit latrines (1.5 eggs and larvae per gram of soil). Irrespective of latrine type and its position on the sanitation ladder, a dirty latrine, evidenced by a visible lack of cleanliness, significantly increased the risk for all infections. This study recommends that effective microbial infection risk reduction in latrines can be gained efficiently by ensuring washable surfaces and consistent cleaning practices. Future studies should include more rigorous measurements of microbial densities in various latrine types incorporating the different front-end components and usage behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabita Adhikari
- School of Civil Engineering, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - Erin Hunter
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Behavioural, Social and Health Sciences, Clemson University, United States.
| | - Jack van de Vossenberg
- Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering Department, IHE Delft Institute of Water Education, the Netherlands.
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Hong ST. Review of Recent Prevalence of Urogenital Schistosomiasis in Sub-Saharan Africa and Diagnostic Challenges in the Field Setting. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1670. [PMID: 37629527 PMCID: PMC10456001 DOI: 10.3390/life13081670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Human schistosomiasis is one of neglected tropical diseases that remain highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Human schistosomiasis is mainly caused by two species, Schistosoma haematobium and S. mansoni, leading to urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis, respectively. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends mass drug administration (MDA) with praziquantel as the primary method of global intervention. Currently, MDA with praziquantel covers over half of the target population in endemic SSA countries. However, an accurate diagnosis is crucial for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of MDA. The standard diagnosis of both urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis relies on the microscopic identification of eggs. However, the diagnostic sensitivity of this approach is low, especially for light or ultra-light infections. This is because Schistosoma eggs are laid inside of the venous plexus of the urinary bladder or mesenteric vein, where the adult flukes live. Approximately half of the eggs circulate in the blood vessels or are packed in neighboring tissues, while the remaining half are expelled into the lumen of the urinary bladder or intestine intermittently when the blood vessels are ruptured. In the field setting, the accuracy of any diagnostic method is critical for proper management of the intervention. The present article reviews the recent prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in SSA and highlights the practical limitations of diagnostic methods such as urine microscopy, urine reagent strips, molecular diagnosis, and ultrasound scanning in the field setting. Despite continuous global efforts to eliminate schistosomiasis over the past 20 years, many areas still remain endemic in SSA. No single diagnostic approach achieves acceptable sensitivity and specificity in the field setting. Therefore, any field survey should employ a combination of these methods based on the purpose of the study to accurately monitor and evaluate urogenital schistosomiasis. Based on diagnostic values and a cost-benefit analysis, a urine reagent strip test can replace urine microscopy in the field setting. The WHO criteria by ultrasound diagnosis should be updated including the echogenic snow sign and contour distortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Tae Hong
- Graduate School of International Development, Handong Global University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Institute of Endemic Diseases Medical Research Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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Peters RPH, Mdingi M, Jung H, Mukomana F, Gigi RMS, Medina-Marino A, Klausner JD. Low prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium infection in pregnant women in Buffalo City district. S Afr J Infect Dis 2023; 38:521. [PMID: 37435116 PMCID: PMC10331169 DOI: 10.4102/sajid.v38i1.521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Remco P H Peters
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, East London, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Division of Medical Microbiology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mandisa Mdingi
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, East London, South Africa
| | - Hyunsul Jung
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Freedom Mukomana
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, East London, South Africa
| | - Ranjana M S Gigi
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, East London, South Africa
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Medina-Marino
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States of America
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Chasekwa B, Ntozini R, Church JA, Majo FD, Tavengwa N, Mutasa B, Noble C, Koyratty N, Maluccio JA, Prendergast AJ, Humphrey JH, Smith LE. Prevalence, risk factors and short-term consequences of adverse birth outcomes in Zimbabwean pregnant women: a secondary analysis of a cluster-randomized trial. Int J Epidemiol 2022; 51:1785-1799. [PMID: 34875052 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, 15 million children are born preterm each year and 10.7 million are born at term but with low birthweight (<2500 g). METHODS The Sanitation Hygiene Infant Nutrition Efficacy (SHINE) cluster-randomized trial enrolled 5280 pregnant women between 22 November 2012 and 27 March 2015 to test the impact of improved water supply, sanitation and hygiene, and improved infant feeding, on child growth and anaemia. We conducted a secondary analysis to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, size small for gestational age (SGA), low birthweight (LBW), perinatal mortality, and neonatal mortality, and to estimate the effects of adverse birth outcomes on infant survival and growth. RESULTS The prevalence of adverse birth outcomes was: miscarriage: 5.0% [95% confidence interval (CI), 4.4, 5.7]; stillbirth: 2.3% (95% CI 1.9, 2.7); preterm birth: 18.2% (95% CI 16.9, 19.5); SGA: 16.1% (95% CI 15.0, 17.3); LBW: 9.8% (95% CI 9.0, 10.7); and neonatal mortality: 31.4/1000 live births (95% CI 26.7, 36.5). Modifiable risk factors included maternal HIV infection, anaemia, lack of antenatal care and non-institutional delivery. Preterm infants had higher neonatal mortality [risk ratio (RR): 6.1 (95% CI 4.0, 9.2)], post-neonatal infant mortality [hazard ratio (HR): 2.1 (95% CI 1.1, 4.1)] and stunting at 18 months of age [RR: 1.5 (95% CI 1.4, 1.7)] than term infants; 56% of stillbirths and 57% of neonatal deaths were among preterm births. CONCLUSIONS Neonatal mortality and stillbirth are high in Zimbabwe and appear to be driven by high preterm birth. Interventions for primary prevention of preterm birth and strengthened management of preterm labour and ill and small neonates are required to reduce neonatal mortality in Zimbabwe and other African countries with similar profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Chasekwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Robert Ntozini
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - James A Church
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Florence D Majo
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Naume Tavengwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Batsirai Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Christie Noble
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Nadia Koyratty
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - John A Maluccio
- Department of Economics, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT, USA
| | - Andrew J Prendergast
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jean H Humphrey
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura E Smith
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Cando LFT, Perias GAS, Tantengco OAG, Dispo MD, Ceriales JA, Girasol MJG, Leonardo LR, Tabios IKB. The Global Prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni, S. japonicum, and S. haematobium in Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:354. [PMID: 36355896 PMCID: PMC9693339 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7110354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease affecting 40 million women of childbearing age worldwide. Its global disease prevalence among pregnant women is still unknown. This meta-analysis determined the pooled prevalence of schistosomiasis among pregnant women globally. Additionally, this study also determined the pooled prevalence based on infection intensity based on eggs per gram. Observational studies on the prevalence of schistosomiasis among pregnant patients were obtained from Medline, Scopus, and CINAHL from January 2001 until August 2020. A review of titles and abstracts was done independently by six reviewers. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional studies. A total of 27 studies were included in the meta-analysis and meta-regression. The pooled prevalence of S. haematobium was 13.44 (CI: 8.90-19.80) per 100 observations, while the pooled prevalence of S. mansoni was 12.18 (CI: 4.47-29.12) per 100 observations. The prevalence of S. japonicum infection in one study was 53.54 (CI: 43.23-63.62) per 100 observations. Our results showed a prevailing health problem of schistosomiasis during pregnancy in various countries worldwide. This strengthens the need to conduct more schistosomiasis research, prevention, and control programs in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Faye T. Cando
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | | | | | - Micah D. Dispo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Jeremy A. Ceriales
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Mark John G. Girasol
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Lydia R. Leonardo
- Office of Research Coordination, University of the East, Manila 1008, Philippines
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Manila 1101, Philippines
| | - Ian Kim B. Tabios
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Manila 1101, Philippines
- Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
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Mutasa K, Tome J, Rukobo S, Govha M, Mushayanembwa P, Matimba FS, Chiorera CK, Majo FD, Tavengwa NV, Mutasa B, Chasekwa B, Humphrey JH, Ntozini R, Prendergast AJ, Bourke CD. Stunting Status and Exposure to Infection and Inflammation in Early Life Shape Antibacterial Immune Cell Function Among Zimbabwean Children. Front Immunol 2022; 13:899296. [PMID: 35769481 PMCID: PMC9234645 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.899296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Children who are stunted (length-for-age Z-score<-2) are at greater risk of infectious morbidity and mortality. Previous studies suggest that stunted children have elevated inflammatory biomarkers, but no studies have characterised their capacity to respond to new infections (i.e., their immune function). We hypothesised that antibacterial immune function would differ between stunted and non-stunted children and relate to their health and environment during early life. Methods We enrolled a cross-sectional cohort of 113 HIV-negative children nested within a longitudinal cluster-randomised controlled trial of household-level infant and young child feeding (IYCF) and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions in rural Zimbabwe (SHINE; Clinical trials registration: NCT01824940). Venous blood was collected at 18 months of age and cultured for 24 h without antigen or with bacterial antigens: heat-killed Salmonella typhimurium (HKST) or Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS). TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12p70, hepcidin, soluble (s)CD163, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and IFNβ were quantified in culture supernatants by ELISA to determine antigen-specific immune function. The effect of stunting status and early-life exposures (anthropometry, inflammation at 18 months, maternal health during pregnancy, household WASH) on immune function was tested in logit and censored log-normal (tobit) regression models. Results Children who were stunted (n = 44) had higher proportions (86.4% vs. 65.2%; 88.6% vs. 73.4%) and concentrations of LPS-specific IL-6 (geometric mean difference (95% CI): 3.46 pg/mL (1.09, 10.80), p = 0.035) and IL-8 (3.52 pg/mL (1.20, 10.38), p = 0.022) than non-stunted children (n = 69). Bacterial antigen-specific pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations were associated with biomarkers of child enteropathy at 18 months and biomarkers of systemic inflammation and enteropathy in their mothers during pregnancy. Children exposed to the WASH intervention (n = 33) produced higher LPS- (GMD (95% CI): 10.48 pg/mL (1.84, 60.31), p = 0.008) and HKST-specific MPO (5.10 pg/mL (1.77, 14.88), p = 0.003) than children in the no WASH group (n = 80). There was no difference in antigen-specific immune function between the IYCF (n = 55) and no IYCF groups (n = 58). Conclusions Antibacterial immune function among 18-month-old children in a low-income setting was shaped by their stunting status and prior exposure to maternal inflammation and household WASH. Heterogeneity in immune function due to adverse exposures in early life could plausibly contribute to infection susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuda Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Joice Tome
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sandra Rukobo
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Margaret Govha
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Farai S. Matimba
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Florence D. Majo
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Naume V. Tavengwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Batsirai Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Bernard Chasekwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jean H. Humphrey
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Robert Ntozini
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Andrew J. Prendergast
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claire D. Bourke
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Claire D. Bourke,
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Campillo JT, Chabot EB, Awaca-Uvon NP, Tambwe JP, Kuyangisa-Simuna G, Boussinesq M, Chesnais CB, Pion SD. Effect of Lymphatic Filariasis and Hookworm Infection on Pregnancy Course and Outcome in Women Living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 104:2074-2081. [PMID: 33939636 PMCID: PMC8176502 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the effect of helminth infections on the natural gynecological and pregnancy course. Our goal was to assess the relationship between Wuchereria bancrofti and hookworm (HW) infections with pregnancy course and outcome in a group of 82 women living in a rural area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Demographics and information on gynecological and obstetrical histories were collected retrospectively with standardized questionnaires. Wuchereria bancrofti and HW infections were diagnosed using a filarial antigen-detection test and the Kato-Katz method, respectively. Analyses consisted of multivariable logistic regressions adjusting for age, number of deliveries, and history of anthelmintic treatment (HAHT). The median age of study participants was 35 (interquartile range [IQR]: 30-44) years, and the median number of deliveries was five (IQR: 3-7). Wuchereria bancrofti and HW infection rates were 44.5% and 43.3%, respectively. Filarial antigenemia and HW infection were not significantly associated with the number of deliveries. The proportions of women with a history of pregnancy resulting in neonatal death, miscarriage, premature birth, and postpartum hemorrhage were 56%, 44%, 23%, and 36%, respectively. History of pregnancy associated with neonatal death was less frequent in women with HAHT, tended to be more frequent in women with filarial antigenemia, and was not associated with HW infection. None of the three other pregnancy events studied (miscarriage, premature birth, and postpartum hemorrhage) were associated with filarial antigenemia or HW infection. The positive association found between HAHT and lower risk of neonatal death warrants investigation in larger groups of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémy T Campillo
- 1UMI 233, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), INSERM Unité 1175 and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Emmanuel B Chabot
- 1UMI 233, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), INSERM Unité 1175 and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- 2UMR1027, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Nationale (Inserm) and University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Naomi-Pitchouna Awaca-Uvon
- 3Programme National de Lutte contre les Maladies Tropicales Négligées à Chimiothérapie Préventive, Ministère de la Santé Publique, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jean-Paul Tambwe
- 3Programme National de Lutte contre les Maladies Tropicales Négligées à Chimiothérapie Préventive, Ministère de la Santé Publique, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Godefroy Kuyangisa-Simuna
- 3Programme National de Lutte contre les Maladies Tropicales Négligées à Chimiothérapie Préventive, Ministère de la Santé Publique, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Michel Boussinesq
- 1UMI 233, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), INSERM Unité 1175 and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Cédric B Chesnais
- 1UMI 233, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), INSERM Unité 1175 and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sébastien D Pion
- 1UMI 233, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), INSERM Unité 1175 and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Majangara Karaga R. Concealed urogenital schistosomiasis causing chronic pelvic pain: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2021; 9:1860-1864. [PMID: 33936604 PMCID: PMC8077315 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.3654] [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: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Urogenital schistosomiasis may mimic or co-exist with other disease. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for schistosomiasis in women from endemic areas and travelers to avoid significant morbidity and unnecessary interventions.
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Masong MC, Wepnje GB, Marlene NT, Gamba V, Mengue MT, Kouokam E, Stothard JR, Ekobo ALS. Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) in Cameroon: A formative epidemiological and socioeconomic investigation in eleven rural fishing communities. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 1:e0000007. [PMID: 36962084 PMCID: PMC10022362 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) is most often caused by presence of Schistosoma haematobium eggs lodged in the female reproductive tract which results in chronic fibrosis and scarring. In Cameroon, despite high community prevalences of urine-patent S. haematobium infections, FGS has yet to be studied in depth. To shed light on the clinical prevalence and socioeconomic effects of FGS, we undertook a formative community-based epidemiological and qualitative survey. METHOD A cross sectional multidisciplinary study of 304 girls and women from 11 remote rural fishing communities in Cameroon was undertaken using parasitological sampling, clinical colposcopy, and interviews. The lived experiences of those with FGS were documented using a process of ethnography with participant observation and in-depth interviews. RESULT Amongst 304 women and girls aged >5 years (Median age: 18; Interquartile range: 9.6-28), 198 females were eligible for FGS testing and 58 adult women were examined by clinical colposcopy. Of these, 34 were positive for FGS (proportion: 58.6%; 95% CI: 45.8-70.4), younger girls showing a higher FGS prevalence, and older women not shedding eggs showing a pattern for cervical lesions from earlier infection. In a subset of women with FGS selected purposively (12/58), in-depth interviews with participant observation revealed out-of-pocket expenditures of up to 500USD related health spending for repeated diagnosis and treatment of gynecological illnesses, and 9 hours daily lost reproductive labour. Psychosocial unrest, loss in social capital, and despair were linked with sub-fertility and persistent vaginal itch. CONCLUSION With our first formative evidence on prevalence, socioeconomic effects and experiences of FGS amongst women and girls in Cameroon, we have clarified to a new level of detail the deficit in provision of and access to peripheral health services in remote areas of Cameroon. Using this information, there is now strong evidence for national programs and services on women's health and schistosomiasis to update and revise policies targeted on prevention and management of FGS. We therefore stress the need for regular provision of Praziquantel treatment to adolescent girls and women in S. haematobium endemic areas, alongside better access to tailored diagnostic services that can detect FGS and appropriately triage care at primary health level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makia Christine Masong
- Department of Social Sciences and Management, Catholic University of Central Africa, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Ntsinda Tchoffo Marlene
- Department of Social Sciences and Management, Catholic University of Central Africa, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Victoria Gamba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Marie-Therese Mengue
- Department of Social Sciences and Management, Catholic University of Central Africa, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Estelle Kouokam
- Department of Social Sciences and Management, Catholic University of Central Africa, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - J Russell Stothard
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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