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Cassidy-Seyoum SA, Chheng K, Chanpheakdey P, Meershoek A, Hsiang MS, von Seidlein L, Tripura R, Adhikari B, Ley B, Price RN, Lek D, Engel N, Thriemer K. Implementation of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) testing for Plasmodium vivax case management, a mixed method study from Cambodia. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003476. [PMID: 39028699 PMCID: PMC11259306 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax remains a challenge for malaria elimination since it forms dormant liver stages (hypnozoites) that can reactivate after initial infection. 8-aminoquinolone drugs kill hypnozoites but can cause severe hemolysis in individuals with Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. The STANDARD G6PD test (Biosensor) is a novel point-of-care diagnostic capable of identifying G6PD deficiency prior to treatment. In 2021, Cambodia implemented the Biosensor to facilitate radical cure treatment for vivax malaria. To assess the Biosensor's implementation after its national rollout, a mixed-methods study was conducted in eight districts across three provinces in Cambodia. Interviews, focus group discussions, and observations explored stakeholders' experiences with G6PD testing and factors influencing its implementation. Quantitative data illustrative of test implementation were gathered from routine surveillance forms and key proportions derived. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The main challenge to implementing G6PD testing was that only 49.2% (437/888) of eligible patients reached health centers for G6PD testing following malaria diagnosis by community health workers. Factors influencing this included road conditions and long distances to the health center, compounded by the cost of seeking further care and patients' perceptions of vivax malaria and its treatment. 93.9% (790/841) of eligible vivax malaria patients who successfully completed referral (429/434) and directly presented to the health center (360/407) were G6PD tested. Key enabling factors included the test's acceptability among health workers and their understanding of the rationale for testing. Only 36.5% (443/1213) of eligible vivax episodes appropriately received primaquine. 70.5% (165/234) of female patients and all children under 20 kilograms never received primaquine. Our findings suggest that access to radical cure requires robust infrastructure and income security, which would likely improve referral rates to health centers enabling access. Bringing treatment closer to patients, through community health workers and nuanced community engagement, would improve access to curative treatment of vivax malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Cassidy-Seyoum
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Keoratha Chheng
- Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol Oxford Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Phal Chanpheakdey
- Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol Oxford Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Agnes Meershoek
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Michelle S. Hsiang
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, Malaria Elimination Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol Oxford Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Center for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol Oxford Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Center for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Bipin Adhikari
- Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol Oxford Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Center for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Benedikt Ley
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
- Division of Education, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Ric N. Price
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
- Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol Oxford Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Center for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Dysoley Lek
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- National Institute of Public Health, School of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Nora Engel
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kamala Thriemer
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
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Santos A, Brito M, Silva E, Rocha F, Oliveira A, Dávila R, Gama H, Albuquerque J, Paiva M, Baía-Silva D, Sampaio V, Balieiro P, Rufatto R, Grewal Daumerie P, Peterka C, Edilson Lima F, Monteiro W, Arcanjo A, Silva R, Batista Pereira D, Lacerda M, Murta F. Perspectives of healthcare professionals on training for quantitative G6PD testing during implementation of tafenoquine in Brazil (QualiTRuST Study). PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012197. [PMID: 38837977 PMCID: PMC11152287 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective radical cure of Plasmodium vivax malaria is essential for malaria elimination in Brazil. P. vivax radical cure requires administration of a schizonticide, such as chloroquine, plus an 8-aminoquinoline. However, 8-aminoquinolines cause hemolysis in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, requiring prior screening to exclude those at risk. Brazil is pioneering the implementation of tafenoquine, a single-dose 8-aminoquinoline indicated for P. vivax patients with >70% of normal G6PD activity. Tafenoquine implementation in Manaus and Porto Velho, two municipalities located in the western Brazilian Amazon, included comprehensive training of healthcare professionals (HCPs) on point-of-care quantitative G6PD testing and a new treatment algorithm for P. vivax radical cure incorporating tafenoquine. Training was initially provided to higher-level facilities (phase one) and later adapted for primary care units (phase two). This study analyzed HCP experiences during training and implementation and identified barriers and facilitators. In-depth interviews and focus discussion groups were conducted 30 days after each training for a purposive random sample of 115 HCPs. Thematic analysis was employed using MAXQDA software, analyzing data through inductive and deductive coding. Analysis showed that following the initial training for higher-level facilities, some HCPs did not feel confident performing quantitative G6PD testing and prescribing the tafenoquine regimen. Modifications to the training in phase two resulted in an improvement in understanding the implementation process of the G6PD test and tafenoquine, as well as in the knowledge acquired by HCPs. Additionally, knowledge gaps were addressed through in situ training, peer communication via a messaging app, and educational materials. Training supported effective deployment of the new tools in Manaus and Porto Velho and increased awareness of the need for pharmacovigilance. A training approach for nationwide implementation of these tools was devised. Implementing quantitative G6PD testing and tafenoquine represents a significant shift in P. vivax malaria case management. Consistent engagement with HCPs is needed to overcome challenges in fully integrating these tools within the Brazilian health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Santos
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Brito
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Evellyn Silva
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Felipe Rocha
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Ana Oliveira
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Dávila
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Hiran Gama
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | | | - Mena Paiva
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Djane Baía-Silva
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Vanderson Sampaio
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Balieiro
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Rosilene Rufatto
- Centro de Pesquisa em Medicina Tropical de Rondônia (CEPEM), Porto Velho, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Wuelton Monteiro
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Ana Arcanjo
- Fundação de Vigilância em Saúde, Manaus, Brazil
| | | | | | - Marcus Lacerda
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
- Instituto Leônidas & Maria Deane, Fiocruz, Manaus, Brazil
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Felipe Murta
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
- Instituto Leônidas & Maria Deane, Fiocruz, Manaus, Brazil
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Manzoni G, Try R, Guintran JO, Christiansen-Jucht C, Jacoby E, Sovannaroth S, Zhang Z, Banouvong V, Shortus MS, Reyburn R, Chanthavisouk C, Linn NYY, Thapa B, Khine SK, Sudathip P, Gopinath D, Thieu NQ, Ngon MS, Cong DT, Hui L, Kelley J, Valecha NNK, Bustos MD, Rasmussen C, Tuseo L. Progress towards malaria elimination in the Greater Mekong Subregion: perspectives from the World Health Organization. Malar J 2024; 23:64. [PMID: 38429807 PMCID: PMC10908136 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-04851-z] [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] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Malaria remains a global health challenge, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Despite substantial progress, the emergence of anti-malarial drug resistance poses a constant threat. The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), which includes Cambodia, China's Yunnan province, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam has been the epicentre for the emergence of resistance to successive generations of anti-malarial therapies. From the perspective of the World Health Organization (WHO), this article considers the collaborative efforts in the GMS, to contain Plasmodium falciparum artemisinin partial resistance and multi-drug resistance and to advance malaria elimination. The emergence of artemisinin partial resistance in the GMS necessitated urgent action and regional collaboration resulting in the Strategy for Malaria Elimination in the Greater Mekong Subregion (2015-2030), advocating for accelerated malaria elimination interventions tailored to country needs, co-ordinated and supported by the WHO Mekong malaria elimination programme. The strategy has delivered substantial reductions in malaria across all GMS countries, with a 77% reduction in malaria cases and a 97% reduction in malaria deaths across the GMS between 2012 and 2022. Notably, China was certified malaria-free by WHO in 2021. Countries' ownership and accountability have been pivotal, with each GMS country outlining its priorities in strategic and annual work plans. The development of strong networks for anti-malarial drug resistance surveillance and epidemiological surveillance was essential. Harmonization of policies and guidelines enhanced collaboration, ensuring that activities were driven by evidence. Challenges persist, particularly in Myanmar, where security concerns have limited recent progress, though an intensification and acceleration plan aims to regain momentum. Barriers to implementation can slow progress and continuing innovation is needed. Accessing mobile and migrant populations is key to addressing remaining transmission foci, requiring effective cross-border collaboration. In conclusion, the GMS has made significant progress towards malaria elimination, particularly in the east where several countries are close to P. falciparum elimination. New and persisting challenges require sustained efforts and continued close collaboration. The GMS countries have repeatedly risen to every obstacle presented, and now is the time to re-double efforts and achieve the 2030 goal of malaria elimination for the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Manzoni
- WHO Mekong Malaria Elimination Programme, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
- Independent Consultant, Antananarivo, Madagascar.
| | - Rady Try
- WHO Mekong Malaria Elimination Programme, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Jean Olivier Guintran
- World Health Organization Country Office, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Independent Consultant, Le Bar sur Loup, France
| | | | - Elodie Jacoby
- WHO Mekong Malaria Elimination Programme, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Independent Consultant, Ho Chi Minh, Viet Nam
| | - Siv Sovannaroth
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Zaixing Zhang
- World Health Organization Country Office, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | | | | | - Rita Reyburn
- World Health Organization Country Office, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | | | - Nay Yi Yi Linn
- National Malaria Control Programme, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
| | - Badri Thapa
- World Health Organization Country Office, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | - Prayuth Sudathip
- Division of Vector Borne Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Deyer Gopinath
- World Health Organization Country Office, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nguyen Quang Thieu
- National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | | | | | - Liu Hui
- Yunnan Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Yunnan, China
| | - James Kelley
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Maria Dorina Bustos
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for South-East Asia, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Luciano Tuseo
- WHO Mekong Malaria Elimination Programme, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines
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4
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Sadhewa A, Chaudhary A, Panggalo LV, Rumaseb A, Adhikari N, Adhikari S, Rijal KR, Banjara MR, Price RN, Thriemer K, Ghimire P, Ley B, Satyagraha AW. Field assessment of the operating procedures of a semi-quantitative G6PD Biosensor to improve repeatability of routine testing. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296708. [PMID: 38241389 PMCID: PMC10798449 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In remote communities, diagnosis of G6PD deficiency is challenging. We assessed the impact of modified test procedures and delayed testing for the point-of-care diagnostic STANDARD G6PD (SDBiosensor, RoK), and evaluated recommended cut-offs. We tested capillary blood from fingerpricks (Standard Method) and a microtainer (BD, USA; Method 1), venous blood from a vacutainer (BD, USA; Method 2), varied sample application methods (Methods 3), and used micropipettes rather than the test's single-use pipette (Method 4). Repeatability was assessed by comparing median differences between paired measurements. All methods were tested 20 times under laboratory conditions on three volunteers. The Standard Method and the method with best repeatability were tested in Indonesia and Nepal. In Indonesia 60 participants were tested in duplicate by both methods, in Nepal 120 participants were tested in duplicate by either method. The adjusted male median (AMM) of the Biosensor Standard Method readings was defined as 100% activity. In Indonesia, the difference between paired readings of the Standard and modified methods was compared to assess the impact of delayed testing. In the pilot study repeatability didn't differ significantly (p = 0.381); Method 3 showed lowest variability. One Nepalese participant had <30% activity, one Indonesian and 10 Nepalese participants had intermediate activity (≥30% to <70% activity). Repeatability didn't differ significantly in Indonesia (Standard: 0.2U/gHb [IQR: 0.1-0.4]; Method 3: 0.3U/gHb [IQR: 0.1-0.5]; p = 0.425) or Nepal (Standard: 0.4U/gHb [IQR: 0.2-0.6]; Method 3: 0.3U/gHb [IQR: 0.1-0.6]; p = 0.330). Median G6PD measurements by Method 3 were 0.4U/gHb (IQR: -0.2 to 0.7, p = 0.005) higher after a 5-hour delay compared to the Standard Method. The definition of 100% activity by the Standard Method matched the manufacturer-recommended cut-off for 70% activity. We couldn't improve repeatability. Delays of up to 5 hours didn't result in a clinically relevant difference in measured G6PD activity. The manufacturer's recommended cut-off for intermediate deficiency is conservative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arkasha Sadhewa
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Alina Chaudhary
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Angela Rumaseb
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Nabaraj Adhikari
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Sanjib Adhikari
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Komal Raj Rijal
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Megha Raj Banjara
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Ric N. Price
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kamala Thriemer
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Prakash Ghimire
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Benedikt Ley
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Ari Winasti Satyagraha
- EXEINS Health Initiative, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Eijkman Research Center for Molecular Biology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, Indonesia
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5
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Dysoley L, Callery JJ, Bunreth V, Vanna M, Davoeung C, Sovann Y, You S, Ol S, Tripura R, Chew R, Chandna A, Christiansen-Jucht C, Hughes J, Sokomar N, Sophornarann T, Rideout J, Veyvath T, Sarith O, Puthy T, Sothearoth H, An SS, Zaman SI, von Seidlein L, Vanthy L, Sodavuth P, Vannak C, Dondorp AM, Lubell Y, Maude RJ, Peto TJ, Adhikari B. Expanding the roles of community health workers to sustain programmes during malaria elimination: a meeting report on operational research in Southeast Asia. Malar J 2024; 23:2. [PMID: 38166839 PMCID: PMC10759643 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-023-04828-4] [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] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In Southeast Asia malaria elimination is targeted by 2030. Cambodia aims to achieve this by 2025, driven in large part by the urgent need to control the spread of artemisinin-resistant falciparum malaria infections. Rapid elimination depends on sustaining early access to diagnosis and effective treatment. In much of Cambodia, rapid elimination will rely on a village malaria worker (VMW) network. Yet as malaria declines and is no longer a common cause of febrile illness, VMWs may become less popular with febrile patients, as VMWs do not diagnose or treat other conditions at present. There is a risk that VMWs become inactive and malaria rebounds before the complete interruption of transmission is achieved.During 2021-23 a large-scale operational research study was conducted in western Cambodia to explore how a VMW network could be sustained by including health activities that cover non-malarial illnesses to encourage febrile patients to continue to attend. 105 VMWs received new rapid diagnostic tests (including dengue antigen-antibody and combined malaria/C-reactive protein tests), were trained in electronic data collection, and attended health education packages on hygiene and sanitation, disease surveillance and first aid, management of mild illness, and vaccination and antenatal care.In August 2023 the National Malaria Control Programme of Cambodia convened a stakeholder meeting in Battambang, Cambodia. Findings from the study were reviewed in the context of current malaria elimination strategies. The discussions informed policy options to sustain the relevance of the VMW network in Cambodia, and the potential for its integration with other health worker networks. This expansion could ensure VMWs remain active and relevant until malaria elimination is accomplished.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lek Dysoley
- National Centre for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
- National Institute for Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
| | - James J Callery
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Moul Vanna
- Action for Health Development, Battambang, Cambodia
| | | | - Yok Sovann
- Provincial Health Department, Pailin, Cambodia
| | - Sles You
- Provincial Health Department, Battambang, Cambodia
| | - Sam Ol
- Action for Health Development, Battambang, Cambodia
- President's Malaria Initiative, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rusheng Chew
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Arjun Chandna
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Cambodia Oxford Medical Research Unit, Angkor Hospital for Children, Siem Reap, Cambodia
| | | | - Jayme Hughes
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Nguon Sokomar
- Cambodia Malaria Elimination Project 2, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- University Research Company Ltd, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- United States Agency for International Development, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Top Sophornarann
- Cambodia Malaria Elimination Project 2, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- University Research Company Ltd, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- United States Agency for International Development, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Jeanne Rideout
- Cambodia Malaria Elimination Project 2, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- University Research Company Ltd, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- United States Agency for International Development, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Tat Veyvath
- Provincial Health Department, Battambang, Cambodia
| | - Oum Sarith
- Provincial Health Department, Pailin, Cambodia
| | - Thaung Puthy
- Provincial Health Department, Battambang, Cambodia
| | | | - Sen Sam An
- Cambodia Malaria Elimination Project 2, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- University Research Company Ltd, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- United States Agency for International Development, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sazid Ibna Zaman
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lim Vanthy
- Action for Health Development, Battambang, Cambodia
| | - Preap Sodavuth
- United Nations Office for Project Services, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Chrun Vannak
- United Nations Office for Project Services, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Arjen M Dondorp
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yoel Lubell
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard J Maude
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Thomas J Peto
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Bipin Adhikari
- Mahidol‑Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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6
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Adhikari B, Bayo M, Peto TJ, Callery JJ, Tripura R, Dysoley L, Mshamu S, Gesase S, von Seidlein L, Dondorp AM. Comparing the roles of community health workers for malaria control and elimination in Cambodia and Tanzania. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e013593. [PMID: 38070880 PMCID: PMC10729139 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The reduction of deaths from malaria in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is stalling, whereas many countries in Southeast Asia are approaching malaria elimination. We reviewed the role of community health worker (CHW) programmes in malaria control and elimination between regions, with a more detailed description of the programmes in Tanzania and Cambodia. Compared with Tanzania, Cambodia has a much more developed CHW network, which has been pivotal in the near elimination of malaria. In Tanzania, the malaria burden has remained similar over the last decade and treatment continues to rely on healthcare facilities, which provide more limited access to early diagnosis and treatment. Overall, the proportion of malaria cases treated by CHWs is substantially lower in SSA than in Southeast Asia. Even though networks of CHWs are resource intensive and malaria epidemiology differs substantially between countries, there is a strong case for expanding CHW networks in rural SSA to improve early access to effective malaria treatment and reduce the malaria burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bipin Adhikari
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Oxford, UK
| | - Makhily Bayo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas J Peto
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Oxford, UK
| | - James J Callery
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Oxford, UK
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Oxford, UK
| | - Lek Dysoley
- C.N.M National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- School of Public Health, National Institute of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Salum Mshamu
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Oxford, UK
- CSK Research Solutions, Mtwara, Tanzania
| | - Samwel Gesase
- Korogwe Research Laboratory, National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga, Tanzania
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Oxford, UK
| | - Arjen M Dondorp
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Oxford, UK
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7
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Adella FJ, Vanna M, Adhikari B, Ol S, Tripura R, Davoeung C, Callery JJ, Sovann Y, Chandna A, Bunreth V, Asnong C, von Seidlein L, Dondorp AM, Maude RJ, Lubell Y, Wills B, Lek D, Peto TJ. The feasibility of novel point-of-care diagnostics for febrile illnesses at health centres in Southeast Asia: a mixed-methods study. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2023; 117:788-796. [PMID: 37317948 PMCID: PMC10629948 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The decline of malaria in Southeast Asia means other causes of fever are increasingly relevant, but often undiagnosed. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of point-of-care tests to diagnose acute febrile illnesses in primary care settings. METHODS A mixed-methods study was conducted at nine rural health centres in western Cambodia. Workshops introduced health workers to the STANDARD(TM) Q Dengue Duo, STANDARD(TM) Q Malaria/CRP Duo and a multiplex biosensor detecting antibodies and/or antigens of eight pathogens. Sixteen structured observation checklists assessed users' performances and nine focus group discussions explored their opinions. RESULTS All three point-of-care tests were performed well under assessment, but sample collection was difficult for the dengue test. Respondents expressed that the diagnostics were useful and could be integrated into routine clinical care, but were not as convenient to perform as standard malaria rapid tests. Health workers recommended that the most valued point-of-care tests would directly inform clinical management (e.g. a decision to refer a patient or to provide/withhold antibiotics). CONCLUSIONS Deployment of new point-of-care tests to health centres could be feasible and acceptable if they are user-friendly, selected for locally circulating pathogens and are accompanied by disease-specific education and simple management algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fidelis Jacklyn Adella
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
| | - Moul Vanna
- Action for Health Development, Battambang 021404, Cambodia
| | - Bipin Adhikari
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Sam Ol
- Action for Health Development, Battambang 021404, Cambodia
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chan Davoeung
- Battambang Provincial Health Department, Battambang, Cambodia
| | - James J Callery
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Yok Sovann
- Pailin Provincial Health Department, Pailin, Cambodia
| | - Arjun Chandna
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Cambodia Oxford Medical Research Unit, Angkor Hospital for Children, Siem Reap 171202, Cambodia
| | | | - Carina Asnong
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Arjen M Dondorp
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Richard J Maude
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- The Open University, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK
| | - Yoel Lubell
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Bridget Wills
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, 764 Vo Van Kiet, Quan 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Dysoley Lek
- School of Public Health, National Institute of Public Health, 80, 289 Samdach Penn Nouth St. (289), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- National Centre for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, 477 Betong, Khan Sen Sok, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Thomas J Peto
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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8
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Betrian M, Umans D, Vanna M, Ol S, Adhikari B, Davoeung C, Callery JJ, Sovann Y, Peto TJ, Maude RJ, van der Pluijm RW, Bunreth V, Grobusch MP, van Vugt M, Lubell Y, von Seidlein L, Dondorp AM, Sovannaroth S, Lek D, Tripura R. Expanding the role of village malaria workers in Cambodia: Implementation and evaluation of four health education packages. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283405. [PMID: 37682947 PMCID: PMC10490887 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early access to correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment is essential for malaria elimination, and in Cambodia this relies on village malaria workers (VMWs). Decreasing malaria transmission leave VMWs with diminished roles. Activities related to the control of other health conditions could keep these community health workers relevant. METHODS During 2022, 120 VMWs attended training at local health centres on four health education packages: 1. hygiene and sanitation; 2. disease surveillance; 3. management of mild illness; 4. vaccination and antenatal care. All training and evaluation sessions were documented through meeting minutes, and 19 focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among VMWs and health centre personnel. Audio-records of FGDs were transcribed and translated in English and underwent thematic analysis. RESULTS VMWs reported strong interest in the training and welcomed the expansion of their roles thus assuring their continued relevance. VMWs prioritized disease surveillance and management of mild illness among the available training packages because these topics were seen as most relevant. While training was considered comprehensible and important, the low literacy among VMWs was an impediment suggesting training materials need to be delivered visually. Since VMWs have limited resources, incentives could ensure that VMWs are motivated to undertake additional roles and responsibilities. CONCLUSIONS The transformation of VMWs into community health workers with roles beyond malaria is a promising approach for sustaining health care provision in remote areas. Training needs to consider the low scientific literacy, time constraints and limited resources of VMWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mipharny Betrian
- Centre of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dafne Umans
- Centre of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Moul Vanna
- Action for Health and Development, Battambang Province, Battambong Municipality, Cambodia
| | - Sam Ol
- Action for Health and Development, Battambang Province, Battambong Municipality, Cambodia
| | - Bipin Adhikari
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chan Davoeung
- Battambang Provincial Health Department, Battambang Province, Battambong Municipality, Cambodia
| | - James J. Callery
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yok Sovann
- Pailin Provincial Health Department, Pailin Province, Pailin Municipality, Cambodia
| | - Thomas J. Peto
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Richard J. Maude
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- The Open University, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Rob W. van der Pluijm
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Voeunrung Bunreth
- Battambang Provincial Health Department, Battambang Province, Battambong Municipality, Cambodia
| | - Martin P. Grobusch
- Centre of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michèle van Vugt
- Centre of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yoel Lubell
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Arjen M. Dondorp
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Siv Sovannaroth
- National Centre for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Dysoley Lek
- National Centre for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- School of Public Health, National Institute of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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9
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Aung TH, Suansomjit C, Tun ZM, Hlaing TM, Kaewkungwal J, Cui L, Sattabongkot J, Roobsoong W. Prevalence of G6PD deficiency and diagnostic accuracy of a G6PD point-of-care test among a population at risk of malaria in Myanmar. Malar J 2023; 22:143. [PMID: 37127600 PMCID: PMC10150473 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-023-04559-6] [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] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past decade, the incidence of malaria has steadily declined in Myanmar, with Plasmodium vivax becoming predominant. The resilience of P. vivax to malaria control is attributed to the parasite's ability to form hypnozoites in the host's liver, which can cause relapse. Primaquine is used to eliminate hypnozoites but can cause haemolysis in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD)-deficient individuals. It is thus necessary to estimate the frequency and variant types of G6PD deficiency in areas where primaquine will be widely used for P. vivax elimination. METHODS In this study, a descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted to determine the prevalence of G6PD deficiency in a population residing in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, using a standard spectrophotometric assay, a rapid diagnostic test (RDT), Biosensor, and by genotyping G6PD variants. RESULTS G6PD enzyme activity was determined from 772 leukocyte-depleted samples, with an adjusted male median G6PD activity value of 6.3 U/g haemoglobin. Using a cut-off value of 30% enzyme activity, the overall prevalence of G6PD deficiency was 10.8%. Genotyping of G6PD variants was performed for 536 samples, of which 131 contained mutations. The Mahidol variant comprised the majority, and males with the Mahidol variant showed lower G6PD enzyme activity. The G6PD Andalus variant, which has not been reported in Myanmar before, was also identified in this study. CONCLUSION This study provides a G6PD enzyme activity reference value for the Myanmar population and further information on the prevalence and variants of G6PD deficiency among the Myanmar population; it also evaluates the feasibility of G6PD deficiency tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Than Htike Aung
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Defence Services Medical Academy, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Chayanut Suansomjit
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Zaw Min Tun
- Defence Services Medical Research Centre, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
| | | | - Jaranit Kaewkungwal
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Liwang Cui
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Florida, USA
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wanlapa Roobsoong
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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10
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Sadhewa A, Cassidy-Seyoum S, Acharya S, Devine A, Price RN, Mwaura M, Thriemer K, Ley B. A Review of the Current Status of G6PD Deficiency Testing to Guide Radical Cure Treatment for Vivax Malaria. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12050650. [PMID: 37242320 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12050650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax malaria continues to cause a significant burden of disease in the Asia-Pacific, the Horn of Africa, and the Americas. In addition to schizontocidal treatment, the 8-aminoquinoline drugs are crucial for the complete removal of the parasite from the human host (radical cure). While well tolerated in most recipients, 8-aminoquinolines can cause severe haemolysis in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficient patients. G6PD deficiency is one of the most common enzymopathies worldwide; therefore, the WHO recommends routine testing to guide 8-aminoquinoline based treatment for vivax malaria whenever possible. In practice, this is not yet implemented in most malaria endemic countries. This review provides an update of the characteristics of the most used G6PD diagnostics. We describe the current state of policy and implementation of routine point-of-care G6PD testing in malaria endemic countries and highlight key knowledge gaps that hinder broader implementation. Identified challenges include optimal training of health facility staff on point-of-care diagnostics, quality control of novel G6PD diagnostics, and culturally appropriate information and communication with affected communities around G6PD deficiency and implications for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arkasha Sadhewa
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia
| | - Sarah Cassidy-Seyoum
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia
| | - Sanjaya Acharya
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia
| | - Angela Devine
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| | - Ric N Price
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Muthoni Mwaura
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia
| | - Kamala Thriemer
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia
| | - Benedikt Ley
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Darwin 0810, Australia
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11
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Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Measurement Using Biosensors by Community-Based Village Malaria Workers and Hospital Laboratory Staff in Cambodia: A Quantitative Study. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030400. [PMID: 36986323 PMCID: PMC10056797 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vivax malaria can relapse after an initial infection due to dormant liver stages of the parasite. Radical cure can prevent relapses but requires the measurement of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme (G6PD) activity to identify G6PD-deficient patients at risk of drug-induced haemolysis. In the absence of reliable G6PD testing, vivax patients are denied radical curative treatment in many places, including rural Cambodia. A novel Biosensor, ‘G6PD Standard’ (SD Biosensor, Republic of Korea; Biosensor), can measure G6PD activity at the point of care. The objectives of this study were to compare the G6PD activity readings using Biosensors by village malaria workers (VMWs) and hospital-based laboratory technicians (LTs), and to compare the G6PD deficiency categorization recommended by the Biosensor manufacturer with categories derived from a locally estimated adjusted male median (AMM) in Kravanh district, Cambodia. Participants were enrolled between 2021 and 2022 in western Cambodia. Each of the 28 VMWs and 5 LTs received a Biosensor and standardized training on its use. The G6PD activities of febrile patients identified in the community were measured by VMWs; in a subset, a second reading was done by LTs. All participants were tested for malaria by rapid diagnostic test (RDT). The adjusted male median (AMM) was calculated from all RDT-negative participants and defined as 100% G6PD activity. VMWs measured activities in 1344 participants. Of that total, 1327 (98.7%) readings were included in the analysis, and 68 of these had a positive RDT result. We calculated 100% activity as 6.4U/gHb (interquartile range: 4.5 to 7.8); 9.9% (124/1259) of RDT-negative participants had G6PD activities below 30%, 15.2% (191/1259) had activities between 30% and 70%, and 75.0% (944/1259) had activities greater than 70%. Repeat measurements among 114 participants showed a significant correlation of G6PD readings (rs = 0.784, p < 0.001) between VMWs and LTs. Based on the manufacturer’s recommendations, 285 participants (21.5%) had less than 30% activity; however, based on the AMM, 132 participants (10.0%) had less than 30% activity. The G6PD measurements by VMWs and LTs were similar. With the provisions of training, supervision, and monitoring, VMWs could play an important role in the management of vivax malaria, which is critical for the rapid elimination of malaria regionally. Definitions of deficiency based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the population-specific AMM differed significantly, which may warrant revision of these recommendations.
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12
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Adhikari B, Tripura R, Peto TJ, Callery JJ, von Seidlein L, Dysoley L, Dondorp AM. Village malaria workers for the community-based management of vivax malaria. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. SOUTHEAST ASIA 2023; 9:100128. [PMID: 37383038 PMCID: PMC10306055 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2022.100128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
In Cambodia, malaria cases are on a trajectory towards the goal of malaria elimination by 2025. Vivax malaria is difficult to eliminate because of hypnozoites that can cause relapse. Primaquine, an 8-aminoquinoline, clears hypnozoites but requires testing for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Routine primaquine treatment of vivax malaria has recently been implemented in Cambodia in which Village Malaria Workers (VMWs) diagnose vivax malaria by rapid diagnostic test and refer patients to health centres for G6PD testing and further treatment. Patients are referred back to the VMWs for monitoring adverse symptoms and treatment adherence. This article explores how VMWs' roles might be optimized for the community-based management of vivax malaria. With sufficient training and supervision, the role of VMWs might be expanded to include G6PD testing, making referral to the health centre superfluous. Community-based management of vivax malaria could increase the coverage of radical cure and accelerate vivax malaria elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bipin Adhikari
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas J. Peto
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - James J. Callery
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lek Dysoley
- C.N.M National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- School of Public Health, National Institute of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Arjen M. Dondorp
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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