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Musoni-Rwililiza E, Arnbjerg CJ, Rurangwa NU, Carlsson J, Kallestrup P, Vindbjerg E, Gishoma D. Adaption and validation of the Rwandese version of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire for the screening of bipolar disorder. Compr Psychiatry 2024; 132:152477. [PMID: 38583298 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2024.152477] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bipolar disorder is challenging to diagnose. In Rwanda, a sub-Saharan country with a limited number of psychiatrists, the number of people with an undetected diagnosis of bipolar disorder could be high. Still, no screening tool for the disorder is available in the country. This study aimed to adapt and validate the Mood Disorder Questionnaire in the Rwandan population. METHODS The Mood Disorder Questionnaire was translated into Kinyarwanda. The process involved back-translation, cross-cultural adaptation, field testing of the pre-final version, and final adjustments. A total of 331 patients with either bipolar disorder or unipolar major depression from two psychiatric outpatient hospitals were included. The statistical analysis included reliability and validity analyses and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis. The optimal cut-off was chosen by maximizing Younden's index. RESULTS The Rwandese version of The Mood Disorder Questionnaire had adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha =0.91). The optimal threshold value was at least six positive items, which yielded excellent sensitivity (94.7%), and specificity (97.3%). The ROC area under the curve (AUC) was 0.99. CONCLUSION The adapted tool showed good psychometric properties in terms of reliability and validity for the screening of bipolar disorder, with a recommended cutoff value of six items on the symptom checklist for a positive score and an exclusion of items 14 and 15. The tool has the potential to be a crucial instrument to identify otherwise undetected cases of bipolar disorder in Rwanda, improving access to mental health treatment, thus enhancing the living conditions of people with bipolar disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Musoni-Rwililiza
- Center for Global Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Denmark; College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Rwanda; Mental Health Department, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - C J Arnbjerg
- Center for Global Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Denmark; College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Rwanda
| | - N U Rurangwa
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Rwanda
| | - J Carlsson
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry (CTP), Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - P Kallestrup
- Center for Global Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - E Vindbjerg
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry (CTP), Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Denmark
| | - D Gishoma
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Rwanda
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Teuwen DE, Ndayisenga A, Garrez I, Sebera F, Mutungirehe S, Umwiringirwa J, Ndiaye M, Umuhoza G, Boon PAJM, Dedeken P. Challenges to epilepsy management in Rwandan women living with epilepsy. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16254. [PMID: 38429893 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16254] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE In Rwanda, epilepsy prevalence ranges between 29‰ and 49‰. Many women living with epilepsy (WwE) are of childbearing age. Epilepsy characteristics and management, contraception, pregnancy, puerperium and stigma in WwE presenting at the neurology clinic of Ndera, Rwanda, were investigated. METHODS This prospective cross-sectional study investigated demographics, epilepsy characteristics, treatment, contraception, folic acid use, pregnancy, puerperium and stigma in WwE aged ≥18 years. Subgroups were analysed by status of any pregnancy and time of epilepsy diagnosis relative to pregnancy, with significant differences expected. RESULTS During December 2020 and January 2021, a hundred WwE were enrolled (range 18-67 years). Fifty-two women had never been pregnant, 39 women had epilepsy onset before pregnancy and nine were diagnosed after pregnancy. No significant differences in age, marital status or occupation were observed. Contraception was used by 27%, of whom 50% were taking enzyme-inducing anti-epileptic medication. Valproate was used by 46% of WwE of reproductive age. Thirty-nine women with epilepsy onset before pregnancy reported 91 pregnancies, with 14% spontaneous abortions. None used folic acid before conception, and 59% only during pregnancy. Five of 78 newborns were preterm. No offspring had major congenital malformations. Nearly 25% of WwE were not compliant with their anti-epileptic medication schedule during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Internalized stigma was observed in more than 60%. Up to 25% had been discriminated against at school or work. CONCLUSION A comprehensive strategy considering the reproductive health and societal challenges of WwE is needed to drive optimal epilepsy management, reproductive health outcomes and societal inclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk E Teuwen
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Arlène Ndayisenga
- Department of Neurology, King Faisal Hospital Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Ieme Garrez
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Fidèle Sebera
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Ndera Neuropsychiatric Teaching Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | - Mustapha Ndiaye
- Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de FANN, Université Cheik Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Georgette Umuhoza
- Department of Neurology, King Faisal Hospital Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Paul A J M Boon
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter Dedeken
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Heilig Hart Ziekenhuis, Lier, Belgium
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Omann LR, Dushimiyimana V, Musoni-Rwililiza E, Arnbjerg CJ, Niyonkuru VU, Iyamuremye JD, Gasana M, Carlsson J, Kallestrup P, Kraef C. Prevalence of Mental Health Disorders and Their Associated Risk Factors Among People Living with HIV in Rwanda: A Cross-Sectional Study. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04358-3. [PMID: 38736005 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04358-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
While life expectancy of people living with HIV is increasing, their burden of non-communicable diseases, including mental health disorders, is growing as well. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with mental health disorders among this population in Rwanda. This cross-sectional study enrolled people living with HIV from 12 HIV clinics across Rwanda using random sampling. Trained HIV nurses conducted the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview to estimate the prevalence of major depressive episode, post-traumatic stress disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Sociodemographic, psychosocial, and HIV-related data were also collected. Associated risk factors for being diagnosed with one of the mental health disorders were assessed using modified Poisson regression with robust error variance. Of 428 participants, 70 (16.4%) had at least one mental health disorder with major depressive episode being most prevalent (n = 60, 14.0%). Almost all participants were adherent to antiretroviral therapy (n = 424, 99.1%) and virally suppressed (n = 412, 96.9%). Of those diagnosed with a mental health disorder, only few were aware of (n = 4, 5.7%) or under treatment for this mental health disorder (n = 5, 7.2%). Mental health disorders were associated with experiences of HIV-related stigma and discrimination (aRR = 2.14, 95%CI 1.30-3.53, p = 0.003). The results demonstrate underdiagnosis and undertreatment of mental health disorders among Rwandan People Living with HIV. Using HIV nurses to diagnose mental health disorders could serve as a low-cost strategy for integrating mental health care with existing HIV services and could inspire the implementation in other low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Risbjerg Omann
- Department of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | | | - Emmanuel Musoni-Rwililiza
- Department of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Mental Health Department, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Caroline Juhl Arnbjerg
- Department of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | | | - Jessica Carlsson
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Copenhagen University Hospital-Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Per Kallestrup
- Department of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christian Kraef
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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Bonumwezi JL, Grapin SL, Uddin M, Coyle S, Habintwali D, Lowe SR. Intergenerational trauma transmission through family psychosocial factors in adult children of Rwandan survivors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Soc Sci Med 2024; 348:116837. [PMID: 38579628 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116837] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Thirty years after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, children of survivors are being increasingly documented to be at higher risk compared to their peers for adverse mental health outcomes. However, no studies in Rwanda have empirically explored family psychosocial factors underlying this intergenerational transmission of trauma. We investigated family psychosocial factors that could underlie this transmission in 251 adult Rwandan children of survivors (mean age = 23.31, SD = 2.40; 50.2% female) who completed a cross-sectional online survey. For participants with survivor mothers (n = 187), we found that both offspring-reported maternal trauma exposure and maternal PTSD were indirectly associated with children's PTSD via maternal trauma communication (specifically, nonverbal and guilt-inducing communication), and that maternal PTSD was indirectly associated with children's PTSD, anxiety, and depression symptoms through family communication styles. For participants with survivor fathers (n = 170), we found that paternal PTSD symptoms were indirectly associated with children's anxiety and depression symptoms via paternal parenting styles (specifically, abusive and indifferent parenting). Although replication is needed in longitudinal research with parent-child dyads, these results reaffirm the importance of looking at mass trauma in a family context and suggest that intergenerational trauma interventions should focus on addressing family communication, trauma communication, and parenting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sally L Grapin
- Department of Psychology, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
| | - Monica Uddin
- Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Samantha Coyle
- Department of Psychology, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
| | | | - Sarah R Lowe
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Yale University, CT, USA
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Alemu WG, Due C, Muir-Cochrane E, Mwanri L, Azale T, Ziersch A. Quality of life among people living with mental illness and predictors in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Qual Life Res 2024; 33:1191-1209. [PMID: 37906348 PMCID: PMC11045618 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03525-8] [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] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Quality of life (QoL) of patients with mental illness has been examined internationally but to a lesser extent in developing countries, including countries in Africa. Improving QoL is vital to reducing disability among people with mental illness. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence of QoL and associated factors among people living with mental illness in Africa. METHODS Using the PICOT approach, Scopus, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, the Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched. A structured search was undertaken, comprising terms associated with mental health, mental illness, QoL, and a list of all African countries. The Joanna Briggs Institute Quality Appraisal Checklist is used to evaluate research quality. Subgroup analysis with Country, domains of QoL, and diagnosis was tested using a random-effect model, and bias was assessed using a funnel plot and an inspection of Egger's regression test. A p value, OR, and 95% CI were used to demonstrate an association. RESULTS The pooled prevalence of poor QoL was 45.93% (36.04%, 55.83%), I2 = 98.6%, p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that Ethiopia (48.09%; 95% CI = 33.73, 62.44), Egypt (43.51%; 95% CI = 21.84, 65.18), and Nigeria (43.49%; 95% CI = 12.25, 74.74) had the highest mean poor QoL prevalence of the countries. The pooled prevalence of poor QoL by diagnosis was as follows: bipolar disorder (69.63%; 95% CI = 47.48, 91.77), Schizophrenia (48.53%; 95% CI = 29.97, 67.11), group of mental illnesses (40.32%; 95% CI = 23.98, 56.66), and depressive disorders (38.90%; 95% CI = 22.98, 54.81). Being illiterate (3.63; 95% CI = 2.35, 4.91), having a comorbid medical illness (4.7; 95% CI = 2.75, 6.66), having a low monthly income (3.62; 95% CI = 1.96, 5.27), having positive symptoms (0.32; 95% CI = 0.19, 0.55), and having negative symptoms (0.26; 95% CI = 0.16, 0.43) were predictors of QoL. Thus, some factors are significantly associated with pooled effect estimates of QoL. CONCLUSIONS The current systematic review and meta-analysis showed that almost half of patients with mental illness had poor QoL. Being illiterate, having a comorbid medical condition, having a low monthly income, having positive symptoms, and having negative symptoms of mental illness were independent predictors of poor QoL. This systematic review and meta-analysis emphasize that poor QoL of people with mental illness in Africa needs attention to reduce its negative consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wondale Getinet Alemu
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Clemence Due
- School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Eimear Muir-Cochrane
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lillian Mwanri
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing, Torrens University Australia, Adelaide Campus, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Telake Azale
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Anna Ziersch
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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Gafaranga JP, Bitunguhari L, Mudenge C, Manirakiza F, Kelly B, Gatabazi P. Screening of Depression Among Medical Outpatients Visiting the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Rwanda. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2024; 20:845-854. [PMID: 38618154 PMCID: PMC11011719 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s443811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Depression is a significant global public health concern, affecting individuals across different age groups and cultural backgrounds. However, screening for depression remains an essential but often neglected aspect of healthcare, particularly in outpatient settings. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depression among outpatients visiting the internal medicine department of the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali in Rwanda and evaluate the feasibility of implementing a depression screening program in this setting. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 300 adult medical outpatients through convenience sampling, aged 18 years and above, who visited the internal medicine department between October 7 to November 6, 2019. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used as the screening tool to assess depressive symptoms. Additionally, socio-demographic and clinical data were collected to explore potential risk factors associated with depression using a binary logistic regression model. Results A high prevalence of depression was identified among internal medicine outpatients, with 45.7% of participants screened positive for depression, with moderate, moderately severe, and severe depression accounting for 21%, 17%, and 8%, respectively. The following factors were significantly associated with positive screening for depression: lack of formal education (OR=4.463, p=0.011, 95% CI= [1.410; 14.127]), secondary education (OR=3.402, p=0.003, 95% CI= [1.517; 7.630]), low-income (OR=2.392, p=0.049, 95% CI= [1.003; 5.706]) and headache as a chief complaint (OR=3.611, p=0.001, CI= [1.718; 7.591]). Conclusion This study highlights the high prevalence of depression among medical outpatients. Due to the stigma associated with mental health, patients frequently seek help for physical symptoms such as headaches and other bodily complaints rather than mental health concerns. Introducing routine depression screening in medical departments could potentially facilitate early identification, and intervention, and lead to improved patient care. Future research should focus on evaluating such screening programs' effectiveness and long-term outcomes in resource-limited settings like Rwanda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Pierre Gafaranga
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Mental Health, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Leopold Bitunguhari
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Charles Mudenge
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Psychiatry, Ndera Neuropsychiatric Teaching Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Felix Manirakiza
- Department of Clinical Biology, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Pathology, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Brian Kelly
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul Gatabazi
- School of Economics and Business, College of Business and Economics, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Statistics, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
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7
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Niwenahisemo LC, Hong S, Kuang L. Assessing anxiety symptom severity in Rwandese adolescents: cross-gender measurement invariance of GAD-7. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1346267. [PMID: 38528981 PMCID: PMC10962260 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1346267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health problems experienced by adolescents worldwide because of their evident significant impact on their quality of life and functioning. The generalized anxiety disorder item (GAD-7) was manufactured to identify the severity of self-reported anxiety symptoms. Efforts to address and screen for mental health problems in Rwanda have been limited, and the importance of screening for anxiety disorders is high. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of the Kinyarwanda version of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder GAD-7, and then test the measurement invariance of the GAD-7 by gender. Methods We used the Rwandese version of GAD-7 among secondary school students in Kigali city (n=1813). Measurement invariance of the GAD-7 across gender and report on anxiety symptom severity prevalence. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to examine measurement invariance. Results Our findings demonstrated that in the sample of 1813 adolescents aged between 12 and 17 years, generalized anxiety symptoms prevalence rates were higher in females (46.4%) than males (n= 29.8%) GAD-7 demonstrated good reliability and validity coefficients with a Cronbach's α of .077 and KMO and Bartlett test of Sphericity = 0.835. In addition to these psychometric properties, the GAD-7 screening scale had equivalence for configural and metric invariance across groups with excellent fit indices, and we confirmed partial scalar invariance across groups. Conclusion The GAD-7 can be used in cross-group comparison of generalized anxiety disorder prevalence, and we acknowledge that full scalar invariance is generally difficult to confirm, especially due to gender differences. We recommend that future studies further investigate populations living in rural areas and conduct trials that will focus on anxiety-specific treatment in Rwandan Clinical health care centers to determine the diagnostic accuracy of this screening tool.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Su Hong
- *Correspondence: Su Hong, ; Li Kuang,
| | - Li Kuang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Garrez I, Teuwen DE, Sebera F, Mutungirehe S, Ndayisenga A, Kajeneza D, Umuhoza G, Kayirangwa J, Düll UE, Dedeken P, Boon PAJM. Very high epilepsy prevalence in rural Southern Rwanda: The underestimated burden of epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa. Trop Med Int Health 2024; 29:214-225. [PMID: 38124297 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Up to 85% of people living with epilepsy (PwE) reside in low-and middle-income countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, the lifetime prevalence of epilepsy is 16 per 1000 persons. In Northern rural Rwanda, a 47.7 per 1000 prevalence has been reported. As variations in prevalence across geographical areas have been observed, we studied the prevalence in Southern rural Rwanda using the same robust methodology as applied in the North. METHODS We conducted a three-stage, cross-sectional, door-to-door survey in two rural villages in Southern Rwanda from June 2022 to April 2023. First, trained enumerators administered the validated Limoges questionnaire for epilepsy screening. Second, neurologists examined the persons who had screened positively to confirm the epilepsy diagnosis. Third, cases with an inconclusive assessment were separately reexamined by two neurologists to reevaluate the diagnosis. RESULTS Enumerators screened 1745 persons (54.4% female, mean age: 24 ± 19.3 years), of whom 304 (17.4%) screened positive. Epilepsy diagnosis was confirmed in 133 (52.6% female, mean age: 30 ± 18.2 years) and active epilepsy in 130 persons. Lifetime epilepsy prevalence was 76.2 per 1000 (95% CI: 64.2-89.7‰). The highest age-specific rate occurred in the 29-49 age group. No gender-specific differences were noted. In 22.6% of the PwE, only non-convulsive seizures occurred. The treatment gap was 92.2%, including a diagnosis gap of 79.4%. CONCLUSION We demonstrated a very high epilepsy prevalence in Southern rural Rwanda, with over 20% of cases having only non-convulsive seizures, which are often underdiagnosed in rural Africa. In line with previous Rwandan reports, we reiterate the high burden of the disease in the country. Geographic variation in prevalence throughout Africa may result from differences in risk and aetiological factors. Case-control studies are underway to understand such differences and propose adapted health policies for epilepsy prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ieme Garrez
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Fidèle Sebera
- Department of Neurology, Ndera Neuro-Psychiatric Teaching Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | | | - Georgette Umuhoza
- Department of Neurology, Ndera Neuro-Psychiatric Teaching Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Uta E Düll
- Medicalized Health Center, Gikonko, Rwanda
| | - Peter Dedeken
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Heilig Hart Ziekenhuis, Lier, Belgium
| | - Paul A J M Boon
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Bröcker E, Olff M, Suliman S, Kidd M, Greyvenstein L, Seedat S. A counsellor-supported 'PTSD Coach' intervention versus enhanced Treatment-as-Usual in a resource-constrained setting: A randomised controlled trial. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2024; 11:e7. [PMID: 38283877 PMCID: PMC10808979 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2023.92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
To widen treatment access for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in resource-constrained South Africa, we evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of a counsellor-supported PTSD Coach mobile application (app) (PTSD Coach-CS) intervention on PTSD and associated sequelae in a community sample. Participants (female = 89%; black = 77%; aged 19-61) with PTSD were randomised to PTSD Coach-CS (n = 32) or enhanced Treatment-as-Usual (n = 30), and assessed with the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-5), PTSD Checklist (PCL-5) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 items, at pre- to post-treatment and follow-up (1 and 3 months). We also collected data on user experiences of the PTSD Coach app with self-administered surveys. We conducted an intent-to-treat analysis and linear mixed models. A significant (group × time) effect for the CAPS-5 (F3.136 = 3.33, p = 0.02) indicated a greater reduction in PTSD symptom severity over time for the intervention group with a significant between-group effect size detected at 3-month follow-up. Significant between-group effect sizes were detected in self-reported stress symptom reduction in the intervention group at post-treatment and 3-month follow-up. Participants perceived the app as helpful and were satisfied with the app. Findings suggest PTSD Coach-CS as a suitable low-cost intervention and potential treatment alternative for adults with PTSD in a resource-constrained country. Replication in larger samples is needed to fully support effectiveness. Pan African Trial Registry: PACTR202108755066871.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erine Bröcker
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sharain Suliman
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Martin Kidd
- Centre for Statistical Consultation, Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University
| | - Lyrése Greyvenstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Mutuyimana C, Maercker A. Elements of cultural scripts of trauma sequelae among trauma victims in East Africa. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1206503. [PMID: 37928575 PMCID: PMC10623154 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1206503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As a new, unifying approach to mapping the cultural expressions of trauma sequelae, cultural scripts of trauma sequelae are empirically investigated here for the first time in a primarily qualitative study. Elements of Cultural Scripts of Trauma (CST) include the typical symptoms and appraisals of changes of those who have experienced traumatic events. These elements refer to the value orientations in the given culture. Aims To identify post-traumatic cultural scripts' elements and their groupings, as expressed by trauma survivors from the East African population, and to explore the cultural values that serve as a reference to such scripts' elements. Methods Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted in nine focus groups of trauma survivors and trauma experts. Grounded theory was the basis for the content analysis, and MAXQDA was used for coding and grouping. Semi-quantitative analyses of the frequency of groupings followed. Results The study extracted 270 elements of the cultural scripts of trauma. Three stages of cultural scripts' elements were identified including unspeakable, heart wounds and painful scars and growth. The reported elements are only those in the three last stages and they are grouped into six categories, such as cognitive appraisals, worldview, interpersonal relationships, body-related, positive changes and changes in family interest and management, while the elements of the first stages are not codable as the survivors do not yet get the words of their expressions. The cultural values that served as a reference consisted of holding the sadness, Christianity, community reputation, solidarity, social connectedness, social cynicism, and reproductiveness, among others. Discussion This comprehensive study with participants from several countries in East Africa collected a large number of elements of cultural scripts of trauma for this regional area. Notably, these elements were based mostly on man-made traumas, such as the genocide against the Tutsis in Rwanda. Further steps in the CST investigation are subject to future studies, such as a more systematic investigation of the relationship with cultural values and the temporal relationships within the scripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celestin Mutuyimana
- Division of Psychopathology and Clinical Intervention, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Maercker
- Division of Psychopathology and Clinical Intervention, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Arnbjerg CJ, Musoni-Rwililiza E, Rurangwa NU, Bendtsen MG, Murekatete C, Gishoma D, Carlsson J, Kallestrup P. Help-seeking patterns and level of care for individuals with bipolar disorder in Rwanda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002459. [PMID: 37815957 PMCID: PMC10564122 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Most descriptive data on individuals with bipolar disorder originate from high-resource settings. Very little is known about the accessibility and service provision of intensive mental health care to persons living with bipolar disorder in low-resource settings. This information is needed to inform health systems and guide practitioners to improve standard treatment options and access to treatment. This cross-sectional study explored the level of care for outpatients with bipolar disorder and their help-seeking patterns at the two national referral hospitals in Rwanda. The study found that the majority, 93%, of outpatients with bipolar disorder in Rwanda were on prophylactic psychopharmacological treatment, but mainly first-generation antipsychotics and just 3% received lithium treatment. Furthermore, there was a lack of psychosocial intervention; consequently, 44% were not aware that they had bipolar disorder. Moreover, 1 in 5 participants utilized or had previously used traditional medicine. Awareness of own diagnostic status was not associated with educational level or use of traditional medicine. The study's sample size of 154 patients is relatively small, and the cross-sectional design does not provide causal inferences. The results demonstrate a considerable unmet need for improved mental health care services for individuals with bipolar disorder in Rwanda, including access to optimal medication and psychosocial interventions. Psychoeducation could be a possible starting point for improving the standard of care, informing the individual on their diagnosis and medication while empowering them to engage in their treatment plan. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04671225. Registered on November 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Juhl Arnbjerg
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Center for Global Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Emmanuel Musoni-Rwililiza
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Center for Global Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Mental Health Department, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Maja Grønlund Bendtsen
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry (CTP), Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Ballerup, Denmark
| | - Chantal Murekatete
- Mental Health Department, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Darius Gishoma
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Mental Health Department, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jessica Carlsson
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry (CTP), Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Ballerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Per Kallestrup
- Center for Global Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Sebera F, Dedeken P, Garrez I, Umwiringirwa J, Leers T, Ndacyayisenga JP, Mutungirehe S, Ndayisenga A, Niyonzima O, Umuhoza G, Teuwen DE, Boon PAMJ. Association of depression and epilepsy in Rwanda: A prospective longitudinal study. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 138:108993. [PMID: 36455447 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108993] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Depression is the most common psychiatric comorbidity for persons living with epilepsy. In Rwanda, the prevalence of epilepsy and depression are high, with 4,9% and 13.0% respectively. This prospective interventional study aimed to determine the prevalence and incidence of depression and the outcome of persons living with epilepsy (PwE) with depression attending the outpatient neurology department of a tertiary center. METHODS Persons living with epilepsy enrolled between February and June 2018 in a screening cohort with a 12-month follow-up. At every 3-month study visit, PwE were screened for depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) questionnaire. Any positively screened subject was administered the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) to confirm the diagnosis and severity of depression. Subjects with moderate to severe depression (MSD), were started on treatment and were followed for another year. We describe the prevalence and incidence of depression, baseline characteristics, epilepsy and depression outcomes, and changes in PGI-C. RESULTS Of 572 PwE enrolled, 46 were diagnosed with MSD in a twelve-month period, resulting in an incidence of MSD of 32.7/1000 patient-years. The prevalence of any depression and MSD was 14.2% and 4.7%, respectively. Longer epilepsy duration and seizure status at baseline were associated with MSD. Significant improvements in PGI-C and seizure frequency were observed after treatment optimization. CONCLUSION The use of PHQ-9 and HDRS proved successful in identifying depression in PwE. Combined treatment of epilepsy and depression resulted in improved outcomes, warranting the implementation of depression screening every six months in daily neurology practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fidele Sebera
- Neurology Department, CARAES Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda; Neurology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire - Kigali (CHU-K), Kigali, Rwanda; Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter Dedeken
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; 4Brain, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Neurology, Heilig Hart Ziekenhuis, Lier, Belgium
| | - Ieme Garrez
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; 4Brain, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Tim Leers
- WIWO Hospital, Nyarugenge District, Kigali, Rwanda; Dataroots, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | - Arlene Ndayisenga
- Neurology Department, CARAES Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda; Neurology Department, King Faisal Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Odette Niyonzima
- Neurology Department, CARAES Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda; WIWO Hospital, Nyarugenge District, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Georgette Umuhoza
- Neurology Department, CARAES Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; 4Brain, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Paul A M J Boon
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; 4Brain, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Nshimyumuremyi E, Muziki JD, Harerimana E, Uwera T, Nshimiyimana A, Sebatukura SG, Mutabaruka J. Prevalence and Family Determinants of Geriatric Depression Among Elderly People in Elderly Support Groups in Rwanda. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:1445-1455. [PMID: 37131955 PMCID: PMC10149077 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s406386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The 1994 Tutsi genocide in Rwanda significantly impacted family structure, with many people growing old alone and lacking social bonds and connections with family members. However, little is known about the contribution of the family environment to geriatric depression which was highlighted by WHO as a psychological problem with a 10% to 20% prevalence rate among the elderly worldwide. This study aims to investigate geriatric depression and associated family determinants among the elderly in Rwanda. Methods With a community-based cross-sectional study design, we assessed geriatric depression (GD), quality-of-life enjoyment and satisfaction (QLES), family support (FS), loneliness, neglect, and attitude toward grief in a convenience sample of 107 participants (M=72.32, SD=8.79) aged between 60 and 95 years who were recruited from three groups of elderly people supported by the NSINDAGIZA organization in Rwanda. SPSS (version 24) was used for statistical data analysis; differences across various sociodemographic variables were tested for significance by an independent t-test; the relationship between study variables was tested by Pearson correlation analysis; and multiple regression analysis was performed to model the contribution of independent variables to dependent variables. Results A total of 64.5% of the elderly scored above the threshold of the normal range of geriatric depression (SDS>49), with higher symptoms in women than in men. Multiple regression analysis indicated that family support and quality-of-life enjoyment and satisfaction were contributors to geriatric depression in the participants. Conclusion Geriatric depression was relatively common in our participants. It is associated with the quality of life and family support received. Hence, adequate family-based interventions are needed to improve the well-being of geriatric people in their respective families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Nshimyumuremyi
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine, and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean d’Amour Muziki
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine, and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Tubarerere Mu Muryango (TMM), National Child Development Agency (NCD), Kigali, Rwanda
- Correspondence: Jean d’Amour Muziki, Department of Tubarerere Mu muryango (TMM), National Child Development Agency (NCD), A&P Building, 3rd Floor 18KG Ave Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda, Tel +250788887249, Email
| | - Eugene Harerimana
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine, and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Thaoussi Uwera
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Medicine, and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Augustin Nshimiyimana
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine, and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Siméon Gitimbwa Sebatukura
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine, and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean Mutabaruka
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine, and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
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