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Mao C, Sun X, Long D, Zhang M, Xu X, Gao X, Lin Y, Wang X. Epidemiological study of pediatric rheumatic heart disease: An analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Int J Cardiol 2024; 400:131705. [PMID: 38171386 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2023.131705] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the most common acquired heart disease among children in developing countries. However, there is a lack of systematic studies on the epidemiology of pediatric RHD. This study aimed to report the burden of pediatric RHD at global, regional, and national levels between 1990 and 2019, which may provide some reference for policymakers. METHODS The numbers and age-standardized rates (ASRs) of incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for childhood RHD from 1990 to 2019 were analyzed based on data obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019). In addition, Joinpoint regression analysis was used to assess temporal trends in the burden of childhood RHD. RESULTS Globally, the number of incidence and prevalence cases of RHD in children increased by 41.89% and 40.88%, respectively, from 1990 to 2019. Age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) increased with an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of 0.75% and 0.66%, respectively. In contrast, the age-standardized DALY rate and age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) decreased significantly since 1990 by an AAPC of -3.47% and - 2.65%, respectively. Girls had a significantly higher burden of RHD than boys during the study period. At the age level, the RHD burden was significantly highest in the age group of 10-14 years. Moreover, the ASRs of incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs were negatively associated with sociodemographic index (SDI). Nationally, Fiji had the most significant increase in incidence and prevalence, and Philippines had the most remarkable rise in DALYs and mortality rates. CONCLUSION From 1990 to 2019, although the incidence and prevalence of childhood RHD increased globally, DALYs and mortality rates markedly reduced. Countries with lower levels of sociodemographic development shoulder a higher burden of childhood RHD. Children aged 10-14 years are critical populations for whom targeted measures are needed to reduce the RHD burden, while attention to girls cannot be neglected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhan Mao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuemei Sun
- Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan Long
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojin Xu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Gao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Lin
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xindong Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Safiri S, Mousavi SE, Noori M, Nejadghaderi SA, Sullman MJM, Singh K, Kolahi AA. The burden of rheumatic heart disease in the Middle East and North Africa region, 1990-2019. Arch Cardiovasc Dis 2023; 116:542-554. [PMID: 37863752 DOI: 10.1016/j.acvd.2023.09.005] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a treatable and preventable condition resulting from acute rheumatic fever. AIM To report the prevalence, mortality and disability-adjusted life-years (DALY) due to RHD in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region from 1990 to 2019, by sex, age group, country and sociodemographic index (SDI). METHODS Information on the prevalence, mortality and DALY associated with RHD were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Data were gathered for all countries in the MENA region over the period 1990-2019. These data included counts and age-standardized rates per 100,000, accompanied by 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs). RESULTS The MENA region had an age-standardized point prevalence of 388.9 per 100,000 in 2019, which was 5.4% higher than in 1990. The annual incidence rate was 1.6, which was 63.4% lower than in 1990. There were 379.4 thousand DALY attributable to RHD in 2019, with an age-standardized rate of 67.1, which was 61.3% lower than in 1990. In 2019, an estimated 7.4 thousand deaths were due to RHD, and the age-standardized death rate was 63.4% lower in 2019 than in 1990. DALY rates rose steadily with increasing age in both males and females. The SDI correlated negatively with the rate of DALY for RHD throughout the study period. CONCLUSION The burden of RHD in MENA declined from 1990 to 2019, demonstrating the importance of regularly updating health data and identifying risk factors, and developing effective guidelines on prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Safiri
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz-Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz-Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Seyed Ehsan Mousavi
- Neurosciences Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Noori
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Aria Nejadghaderi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Expert Group (SRMEG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mark J M Sullman
- Department of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus; Department of Social Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Kuljit Singh
- Department of Cardiology, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia; Department of Medicine, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ali-Asghar Kolahi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Shahid-Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Bhatt N, Karki A, Shrestha B, Singh A, Rawal LB, Sharma SK. Effectiveness of an educational intervention in improving healthcare workers' knowledge of early recognition, diagnosis and management of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in rural far-western Nepal: a pre/post-intervention study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e059942. [PMID: 35459678 PMCID: PMC9036430 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remain among the major heart problems among children in Nepal. Although these conditions are preventable and treatable, the lack of proper knowledge and resources to diagnose and manage these conditions in rural health centres is a key concern. This study assessed the impact of educational sessions to improve the knowledge of healthcare workers in the early recognition, diagnosis, and management of RF and RHD in rural far-western Nepal. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS This study used a pretest and post-test interventional design and was conducted among 64 healthcare workers in two primary healthcare centres and a peripheral district-level hospital in Achham district in the far-western region of Nepal. A self-administered questionnaire was used before and after the educational sessions. Data were analysed using SPSS V.21. RESULTS The overall test scores increased from 10 (SD=2.4) pre-intervention to 13.8 (SD=1.9) post-intervention (p<0.001). Similarly, participant confidence (graded 1-5) in differentiating bacterial from viral sore throat rose from 3.6 (SD=1.08) pre-intervention to 3.98 (SD=1.09) post-intervention (p<0.05). Confidence in managing RF increased from 3.9 (SD=0.88) pre-intervention to 4.30 (SD=0.8) post-intervention (p<0.001). CONCLUSION The findings suggest that the investigated educational sessions are promising with respect to improving the knowledge and confidence of healthcare workers in the early recognition, diagnosis, and management of RF and RHD at the primary healthcare level. Further studies with a larger sample size and conducted in different parts of the country are warranted to assess the effectiveness and impact of scaling up such educational interventions in Nepal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navin Bhatt
- Bayalpata Hospital, Nyaya Health Nepal, Achham, Nepal
- Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Ashmita Karki
- Central Department of Public Health, Tribhuvan University Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Amul Singh
- Bayalpata Hospital, Nyaya Health Nepal, Achham, Nepal
| | - Lal B Rawal
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, College of Science and Sustainability, Central Queensland University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sanjib Kumar Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal
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Awareness of Rheumatic Heart Disease in Egypt: A National Multicenter Study. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2021; 8:jcdd8090108. [PMID: 34564126 PMCID: PMC8466231 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd8090108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: While the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Egypt is relatively high, data on the awareness of Egyptians about the cause of RHD are lacking. Methods: Using a pre-tested questionnaire, we performed a multicenter survey of outpatients attending 15 university hospitals across Egypt. Results: A total of 6958 participants were interviewed. Most subjects (81.7%) reported a previous experience of sore throat. Seeking treatment, most patients (69.3%) consulted a medical professional, while the others relied on self/peer medication. Individuals consulting a physician received antibiotics more frequently than those who did not (89.1 vs. 38.7%; OR: 12.4, 95% CI 10.8–14.1). The median RHD knowledge score in our sample was 4 (IQR = 6). While most subjects (56.3%) claimed knowledge of the complications of an untreated sore throat, only a third (34%) were aware of the association between sore throat and RHD. In a multivariate analysis, older age (Mean Difference [MD]: 1.58, 95% CI 1.37–1.79), female gender (MD: 0.89, 95% CI 0.75–1.04), higher education (MD: 1.10, 95% CI 0.90–1.30), and being interviewed outside Cairo (MD: 0.67, 95% CI 0.51–0.82) were significant predictors of knowledge about RHD. Conclusion: The current study showed low levels of awareness on the cause of RHD among Egyptians and highlights a pressing need for interventions to address this public knowledge gap.
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Baker MG, Gurney J, Oliver J, Moreland NJ, Williamson DA, Pierse N, Wilson N, Merriman TR, Percival T, Murray C, Jackson C, Edwards R, Foster Page L, Chan Mow F, Chong A, Gribben B, Lennon D. Risk Factors for Acute Rheumatic Fever: Literature Review and Protocol for a Case-Control Study in New Zealand. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E4515. [PMID: 31731673 PMCID: PMC6888501 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16224515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and its sequela, rheumatic heart disease (RHD), have largely disappeared from high-income countries. However, in New Zealand (NZ), rates remain unacceptably high in indigenous Māori and Pacific populations. The goal of this study is to identify potentially modifiable risk factors for ARF to support effective disease prevention policies and programmes. A case-control design is used. Cases are those meeting the standard NZ case-definition for ARF, recruited within four weeks of hospitalisation for a first episode of ARF, aged less than 20 years, and residing in the North Island of NZ. This study aims to recruit at least 120 cases and 360 controls matched by age, ethnicity, gender, deprivation, district, and time period. For data collection, a comprehensive pre-tested questionnaire focussed on exposures during the four weeks prior to illness or interview will be used. Linked data include previous hospitalisations, dental records, and school characteristics. Specimen collection includes a throat swab (Group A Streptococcus), a nasal swab (Staphylococcus aureus), blood (vitamin D, ferritin, DNA for genetic testing, immune-profiling), and head hair (nicotine). A major strength of this study is its comprehensive focus covering organism, host and environmental factors. Having closely matched controls enables the examination of a wide range of specific environmental risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6021, New Zealand; (J.G.); (J.O.); (N.P.); (R.E.)
| | - Jason Gurney
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6021, New Zealand; (J.G.); (J.O.); (N.P.); (R.E.)
| | - Jane Oliver
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6021, New Zealand; (J.G.); (J.O.); (N.P.); (R.E.)
| | - Nicole J Moreland
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand;
| | - Deborah A Williamson
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at The Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne 3010, Australia;
| | - Nevil Pierse
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6021, New Zealand; (J.G.); (J.O.); (N.P.); (R.E.)
| | - Nigel Wilson
- Green Lane Paediatric and Congenital Cardiac Services, Starship Children’s Hospital, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland 1023; New Zealand;
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand;
| | - Tony R Merriman
- Biochemistry Department, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand;
| | - Teuila Percival
- School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand;
- KidzFirst Children’s Hospital, Auckland 1640, New Zealand;
| | - Colleen Murray
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand (L.F.P.)
| | - Catherine Jackson
- Auckland Regional Public Health Service, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland 0622, New Zealand;
| | - Richard Edwards
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6021, New Zealand; (J.G.); (J.O.); (N.P.); (R.E.)
| | - Lyndie Foster Page
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand (L.F.P.)
| | | | - Angela Chong
- CBG Health Research Ltd, Auckland 0651, New Zealand; (A.C.); (B.G.)
| | - Barry Gribben
- CBG Health Research Ltd, Auckland 0651, New Zealand; (A.C.); (B.G.)
| | - Diana Lennon
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand;
- KidzFirst Children’s Hospital, Auckland 1640, New Zealand;
- Starship Children’s Hospital, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
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Ali S, Awadallah H, Al Hamim A, Al Hussein H, Al Amin Al Sunni M, Bushari T, Ahmed MH. Handheld echocardiography for screening and control of rheumatic heart disease study in Gezira state, Sudan: a double approach model. Cardiovasc Diagn Ther 2018; 8:500-507. [PMID: 30214865 DOI: 10.21037/cdt.2018.07.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is prevalent in Sudan's rural areas including Gezira state in central Sudan. We initiated a control program aiming at measurement of the echocardiographic (echo) prevalence of RHD, training of health workers and public awareness. Methods This is a cross-sectional and interventional study conducted in Gezira State, Al Managil Locality from Nov 2016 to February 2018. We used handheld echo (HHE) to detect the prevalence of RHD in school children and those tested positives were referred for standard echo. In addition, training on detection of RHD for health professionals was offered using training modules for physicians and nurses. Evaluation of health facilities was carried out using a questionaire. This was coupled with educational sessions to increase public awareness about RHD using posters and pamphlets. Results Two thousand and one hundred twenty-nine school children were screened, 36 cases were positive by HHE, out of these 31 underwent standard echo and 5 were confirmed to have RHD, giving an echo prevalence of 2.3/1,000. All cases had mild mitral regurgitation. Knowledge, attitudes and practices of 175 health workers were assessed then a tailored training program was implemented. Practices that are not compatible with Sudan's RHD Guidelines were detected including performing skin testing prior to administration of benzathine penicillin and under-utilization of local anesthetic to decrease the pain when giving the injection. Benzathine penicillin was available in only 32% of health facilities and only 25% of their personnel received training in RHD management. Conclusions RHD echo prevalence in Gezira is relatively high and the health system needs to be strengthened. A double approach, screen-to-control program that utilizes HHE screening, health workers' training, public awareness and providing medical supplies in primary health care centers is feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulafa Ali
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Sudan Heart Center & University of Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Heitham Awadallah
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Al Hamim
- Registrar of Pediatrics and Child Health, Sudan Medical Specialization Board, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Hussam Al Hussein
- MSC Student in Public Health, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Tajudeen Bushari
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Sudan Medical Specialization Board, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Mohamed H Ahmed
- Department of Medicine and HIV Metabolic Clinic, Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Eaglestone, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, UK
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Barker H, Oetzel JG, Scott N, Morley M, Carr PEA, Oetzel KB. Enablers and barriers to secondary prophylaxis for rheumatic fever among Māori aged 14-21 in New Zealand: a framework method study. Int J Equity Health 2017; 16:201. [PMID: 29149897 PMCID: PMC5693496 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-017-0700-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) rates have declined to near zero in nearly all developed countries. However, in New Zealand rates have not declined since the 1980s. Further, ARF diagnoses in New Zealand are inequitably distributed--occurring almost exclusively in Māori (the indigenous population) and Pacific children--with very low rates in the majority New Zealand European population. With ARF diagnosis, secondary prophylaxis is key to prevent recurrence. The purpose of this study was to identify the perceived enablers and barriers to secondary recurrence prophylaxis following ARF for Māori patients aged 14–21. Methods This study took a systems approach, was informed by patient voice and used a framework method to explore potential barriers and enablers to ongoing adherence with monthly antibiotic injections for secondary prophylaxis. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 19 Māori ARF patients receiving recurrence prophylaxis in the Waikato District Health Board region. Participants included those fully adherent to treatment, those with intermittent adherence or those who had been “lost to follow-up.” Results Barriers and enablers were presented around three factors: system (including access/resources), relational and individual. Access and resources included district nurses coming to patients as an enabler and lack of income and time off work as barriers. Relational characteristics included support from family and friends as enablers and district nurse communication as predominantly a positive although not enabling factor. Individual characteristics included understanding, personal responsibility and fear/pain of injections. Conclusion This detailed exploration of barriers and enablers for ongoing secondary prophylaxis provides important new information for the prevention of recurrent ARF. Among other considerations, a national register, innovative engagement with youth and their families and a comprehensive pain management programme are likely to improve adherence to ongoing secondary prophylaxis and reduce the burden of RHD for New Zealand individuals, families and health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary Barker
- University of Auckland, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - John G Oetzel
- Waikato Management School, University of Waikato, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand.
| | - Nina Scott
- Waikato District Health Board, Pembroke Street, Private Bag 3200, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Morley
- Waikato District Health Board, Pembroke Street, Private Bag 3200, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - Polly E Atatoa Carr
- Waikato Management School, University of Waikato, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand.,Waikato District Health Board, Pembroke Street, Private Bag 3200, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
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Otu A, Ebenso B, Okuzu O, Osifo-Dawodu E. Using a mHealth tutorial application to change knowledge and attitude of frontline health workers to Ebola virus disease in Nigeria: a before-and-after study. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2016; 14:5. [PMID: 26872824 PMCID: PMC4751664 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-016-0100-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Ebola epidemic exposed the weak state of health systems in West Africa and their devastating effect on frontline health workers and the health of populations. Fortunately, recent reviews of mobile technology demonstrate that mHealth innovations can help alleviate some health system constraints such as balancing multiple priorities, lack of appropriate tools to provide services and collect data, and limited access to training in health fields such as mother and child health, HIV/AIDS and sexual and reproductive health. However, there is little empirical evidence of mHealth improving health system functions during the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. METHODS We conducted quantitative cross-sectional surveys in 14 health facilities in Ondo State, Nigeria, to assess the effect of using a tablet computer tutorial application for changing the knowledge and attitude of health workers regarding Ebola virus disease. RESULTS Of 203 participants who completed pre- and post-intervention surveys, 185 people (or 91%) were female, 94 participants (or 46.3%) were community health officers, 26 people (13 %) were nurses/midwives, 8 people (or 4%) were laboratory scientists and 75 people (37%) belonged to a group called others. Regarding knowledge of Ebola: 178 participants (or 87.7%) had foreknowledge of Ebola before the study. Further analysis showed an 11% improvement in average knowledge levels between pre- and post-intervention scores with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) recorded for questions concerning the transmission of the Ebola virus among humans, common symptoms of Ebola fever and whether Ebola fever was preventable. Additionally, there was reinforcement of positive attitudes of avoiding the following: contact with Ebola patients, eating bush meat and risky burial practices as indicated by increases between pre- and post-intervention scores from 83 to 92%, 57 to 64% and 67 to 79%, respectively. Moreover, more participants (from 95 to 97%) reported a willingness to practice frequent hand washing and disinfecting surfaces and equipment following the intervention, and more health workers were willing (from 94 to 97%) to use personal protective equipment to prevent the transmission of Ebola. CONCLUSIONS The modest improvements in knowledge and reported attitudinal change toward Ebola virus disease suggests mHealth tutorial applications could hold promise for training health workers and building resilient health systems to respond to epidemics in West Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akaninyene Otu
- />Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, P.M.B. 11115, Calabar, Cross River State Nigeria
| | - Bassey Ebenso
- />Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development, Leeds Institute for Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Okey Okuzu
- />Instrat Global Health Solutions, New Jersey, USA
- />Instrat Global Health Solutions, Abuja, Nigeria
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