1
|
Gibson DG, Meghani A, Ssemagabo C, Wosu A, Kibria GMA, Nareeba T, Gyezaho C, Galiwango E, Nanyonga JK, Pariyo GW, Kajungu D, Rutebemberwa E, Hyder AA. The epidemiology of behavioral risk factors for noncommunicable disease and hypertension: A cross-sectional study from Eastern Uganda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002998. [PMID: 38885252 PMCID: PMC11182527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
In light of the suboptimal noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factor surveillance efforts, the study's main objectives were to: (i) characterize the epidemiological profile of NCD risk factors; (ii) estimate the prevalence of hypertension; and (iii) identify factors associated with hypertension in a peri-urban and rural Ugandan population. A population-based cross-sectional survey of adults was conducted at the Iganga-Mayuge Health and Demographic Surveillance System site in eastern Uganda. After describing sociodemographic characteristics, the prevalence of NCD risk factors and hypertension was reported. Prevalence ratios for NCD risk factors were calculated using weighted Poisson regression to identify factors associated with hypertension. Among 3220 surveyed respondents (mean age: 35.3 years (standard error: 0.1), 49.4% males), 4.4% were current tobacco users, 7.7% were current drinkers, 98.5% had low fruit and vegetable consumption, 26.9% were overweight, and 9.3% were obese. There was a high prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension, at 17.1% and 48.8%, respectively. Among hypertensive people, most had uncontrolled hypertension, at 97.4%. When we examined associated factors, older age (adjusted prevalence ratio (APR): 3.1, 95% CI: 2.2-4.4, APR: 5.2, 95% CI: 3.7-7.3, APR: 8.9, 95% CI: 6.4-12.5 among 30-44, 45-59, and 60+-year-old people than 18-29-year-olds), alcohol drinking (APR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.3-2.0, ref: no), always adding salt during eating (APR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1-2.2, ref: no), poor physical activity (APR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1-1.6, ref: no), overweight (APR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1-1.5, ref: normal weight), and obesity (APR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.6-2.4, ref: normal weight) had higher prevalence of hypertension than their counterparts. The high prevalence of NCD risk factors highlights the immediate need to implement and scale-up population-level strategies to increase awareness about leading NCD risk factors in Uganda. These strategies should be accompanied by concomitant investment in building health systems capacity to manage and control NCDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dustin G. Gibson
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ankita Meghani
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Charles Ssemagabo
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Adaeze Wosu
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Gulam Muhammed Al Kibria
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Tryphena Nareeba
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Collins Gyezaho
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edward Galiwango
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Judith Kaija Nanyonga
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda
| | - George W. Pariyo
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Dan Kajungu
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elizeus Rutebemberwa
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Adnan Ali Hyder
- Department of Global Health, Office of the Dean, Milken Institute of Public Health, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Iezadi S, Gholipour K, Sherbafi J, Behpaie S, Soltani N, Pasha M, Farahishahgoli J. Service quality: perspective of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension in rural and urban public primary healthcare centers in Iran. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:517. [PMID: 38658925 PMCID: PMC11044473 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10854-y] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the service quality (SQ) for Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension in primary healthcare settings from the perspective of service users in Iran. METHODS The Cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2020 in urban and rural public health centers in the East Azerbaijan province of Iran. A total of 561 individuals aged 18 or above with either or both conditions of T2DM and hypertension were eligible to participate in the study. The study employed a two-step stratified sampling method in East Azerbaijan province, Iran. A validated questionnaire assessed SQ. Data were analyzed using One-way ANOVA and multiple linear regression statistical models in STATA-17. RESULTS Among the 561 individuals who participated in the study 176 (31.3%) were individuals with hypertension, 165 (29.4%) with T2DM, and 220 (39.2%) with both hypertension and T2DM mutually. The participants' anthropometric indicators and biochemical characteristics showed that the mean Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) in individuals with T2DM was 174.4 (Standard deviation (SD) = 73.57) in patients with T2DM without hypertension and 159.4 (SD = 65.46) in patients with both T2DM and hypertension. The total SQ scores were 82.37 (SD = 12.19), 82.48 (SD = 12.45), and 81.69 (SD = 11.75) for hypertension, T2DM, and both conditions, respectively. Among people with hypertension and without diabetes, those who had specific service providers had higher SQ scores (b = 7.03; p = 0.001) compared to their peers who did not have specific service providers. Those who resided in rural areas had lower SQ scores (b = -6.07; p = 0.020) compared to their counterparts in urban areas. In the group of patients with T2DM and without hypertension, those who were living in non-metropolitan cities reported greater SQ scores compared to patients in metropolitan areas (b = 5.09; p = 0.038). Additionally, a one-point increase in self-management total score was related with a 0.13-point decrease in SQ score (P = 0.018). In the group of people with both hypertension and T2DM, those who had specific service providers had higher SQ scores (b = 8.32; p < 0.001) compared to the group without specific service providers. CONCLUSION Study reveals gaps in T2DM and hypertension care quality despite routine check-ups. Higher SQ correlates with better self-care. Improving service quality in primary healthcare settings necessitates a comprehensive approach that prioritizes patient empowerment, continuity of care, and equitable access to services, particularly for vulnerable populations in rural areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Iezadi
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kamal Gholipour
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Jabraeil Sherbafi
- East Azerbaijan Provincial Health Centre, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sama Behpaie
- Student Research Committee, Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazli Soltani
- East Azerbaijan Provincial Health Centre, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohsen Pasha
- East Azerbaijan Provincial Health Centre, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Javad Farahishahgoli
- East Azerbaijan Provincial Health Centre, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Badacho AS, Mahomed OH. Lived experiences of people living with HIV and hypertension or diabetes access to care in Ethiopia: a phenomenological study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078036. [PMID: 38417958 PMCID: PMC10900422 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078036] [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] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People living with HIV (PLWH) are more likely to develop hypertension and diabetes than people without HIV. Previous studies have shown that HIV stigma, discrimination and exclusion make it difficult for PLWH to access care for hypertension and diabetes. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of PLWH with comorbid hypertension or diabetes to access hypertension and diabetes care in southern Ethiopia. DESIGN We conducted a qualitative study using a semistructured interview guide for an in-depth, in-person interview. SETTINGS From 5 August to 25 September 2022, PLWH with comorbid hypertension or diabetes were purposefully selected from five primary healthcare (PHC) facilities in the Wolaita zone of southern Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS A total of 14 PLWH with comorbid hypertension or diabetes who were receiving antiretroviral therapy from PHC were interviewed. Among them, 10 were women, and 4 were men. METHODS In-person, in-depth interviews were conducted. Qualitative data analysis software (NVivo V.12) was used to assist with the data organisation, and Colaizzi's (1978) inductive thematic analyses were conducted to explore key concepts. RESULT This study yielded two main themes: Theme 1: barriers to accessing care as individual barriers to access (low awareness of non-communicable diseases, misperceptions, lack of health insurance and cost of treatment); healthcare system barriers (shortage of supplies, drugs and equipment; long wait times; lack of integrated services; absence of routine screening and lack of respect from providers); community barriers (lack of support from families, friends and the community) and stigma and discrimination access to hypertension and diabetes. Theme 2: accessibility facilitators (support from family, friends and organisations; health insurance coverage). CONCLUSION PLWH recommended that access to services can be improved by service integration, awareness-raising activities, no user fee charges for hypertension and diabetes care and routine screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abebe Sorsa Badacho
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- School of Public Health, College of Health Science and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ozayr Haroon Mahomed
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kiconco R, Lumumba SA, Bagenda CN, Atwine R, Ndarubweine J, Rugera SP. Insulin therapy among diabetic patients in rural communities of Sub-Saharan Africa: a perspective review. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2024; 15:20420188241232280. [PMID: 38379780 PMCID: PMC10878220 DOI: 10.1177/20420188241232280] [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: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
In this perspective review, we describe a brief background on the status quo of diabetes mellitus-related therapies and glycemic control among patients in rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa. The article discusses insulin therapy as well as the difficulties in obtaining insulin and oral hypoglycemic medications for diabetic patients living in sub-Saharan Africa. We wrap up our discussion with suggestions on solutions and opportunities for future research to tackle this health challenge in these impoverished communities. We conducted a literature search from PubMed and Google Scholar up until August 2023. Key words were used to generate search terms used to retrieve the required information. All types of literature with pertinent information on the current topic were included in the study. Diabetes mellitus is on the rise in sub-Saharan Africa. Several studies have reported poor glycemic control, low screening rates for diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking, high alcohol consumption, prescription of antidiabetic therapy, and associated costs as contributors to the uptake of antidiabetic treatment. Although there is paucity of data on the extent of insulin therapy uptake and its possible modifiable contributors among the diabetic patients in the region, the anticipated increase in the number of people with diabetes on the continent makes it critical for global leaders to address the research gaps in insulin therapy among rural communities of sub-Saharan Africa, thus reducing the burden of diabetes in these populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ritah Kiconco
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Mbarara-Kabale Road, Mbarara 1410, Uganda
- Department of Biochemistry, Sororti University, Soroti, Uganda
| | - Sylvia Achieng Lumumba
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Charles Nkubi Bagenda
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Raymond Atwine
- Department of Pathology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ndarubweine
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Simon Peter Rugera
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Marambire ET, Chingono RMS, Calderwood CJ, Larsson L, Sibanda S, Kavenga F, Nzvere FP, Olaru ID, Simms V, McHugh G, Bandason T, Redzo N, Gregson CL, Maunganidze AJV, Pasi C, Chiwanga M, Chonzi P, Ndhlovu CE, Mujuru H, Rusakaniko S, Ferrand RA, Kranzer K. Evaluation of a comprehensive health check offered to frontline health workers in Zimbabwe. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002328. [PMID: 38190397 PMCID: PMC10773946 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Health workers are essential for a functioning healthcare system, and their own health is often not addressed. During the COVID-19 pandemic health workers were at high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection whilst coping with increased healthcare demand. Here we report the development, implementation, and uptake of an integrated health check combining SARS-CoV-2 testing with screening for other communicable and non-communicable diseases for health workers in Zimbabwe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health checks were offered to health workers in public and private health facilities from July 2020 to June 2022. Data on the number of health workers accessing the service and yield of screening was collected. Workshops and in-depth interviews were conducted to explore the perceptions and experiences of clients and service providers. 6598 health workers across 48 health facilities accessed the service. Among those reached, 5215 (79%) were women, the median age was 37 (IQR: 29-44) years and the largest proportion were nurses (n = 2092, 32%). 149 (2.3%) healthcare workers tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Uptake of screening services was almost 100% for all screened conditions except HIV. The most common conditions detected through screening were elevated blood pressure (n = 1249; 19%), elevated HbA1c (n = 428; 7.7%) and common mental disorder (n = 645; 9.8%). Process evaluation showed high acceptability of the service. Key enablers for health workers accessing the service included free and comprehensive service provision, and availability of reliable point-of-care screening methods. Implementation of a comprehensive health check for health workers was feasible, acceptable, and effective, even during a pandemic. Conventional occupational health programmes focus on infectious diseases. In a society where even health workers cannot afford health care, free comprehensive occupational health services may address unmet needs in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for chronic non-communicable conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edson T. Marambire
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- CIH Center for International Health, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Rudo M. S. Chingono
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Claire J. Calderwood
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leyla Larsson
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sibusisiwe Sibanda
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Fungai Kavenga
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- National TB Programme, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Farirai P. Nzvere
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ioana D. Olaru
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Simms
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Grace McHugh
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nicol Redzo
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Celia L. Gregson
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Global Health and Ageing, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Chiratidzo E. Ndhlovu
- Internal Medicine Unit, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hilda Mujuru
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Simbarashe Rusakaniko
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rashida A. Ferrand
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lubega M, Ogwok J, Nabunya B, Mbalinda SN. Role of community-based health clubs in promoting patients' health education for diabetes self-care management: an interventional qualitative study in a Ugandan urban setting. BMJ Open Qual 2023; 12:e002473. [PMID: 38135300 DOI: 10.1136/bmjoq-2023-002473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-care management support is a core component of the Chronic Care Model that emphasises the need for empowering and preparing patients to manage their healthcare. In diabetes mellitus (DM) management, health education towards self-care empowers patients to make day-to-day decisions on their own disease and live with a healthy lifestyle. Although several strategies have been undertaken to improve the management of DM in Uganda, little has been done to empower patients to manage their own health. Community-based health clubs have been suggested as a novel way of improving diabetes management especially in settings with uneven distribution of healthcare facilities and inaccessibility to healthcare services that limit patients' awareness of the disease and self-care management. This interventional study was aimed at exploring the role of community-based health clubs in promoting patients' health education for diabetes self-care management. METHODS A cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted among 20 participants using focus group discussions with each having six to eight members. Only patients with diabetes who seek routine diabetes healthcare services at Wakiso Health Centre IV and had participated in the 8-week community-based health clubs' health education sessions were recruited for the study. The audio-recordings were transcribed verbatim and translated into English; thematic data analysis was conducted to generate codes and themes. Similar codes were merged and a group consensus was reached on coding discrepancies. RESULTS Three major themes on the role of health clubs in promoting patients' health education were merged from the study. These include promoting sharing of experiences among patients, improving awareness of healthy self-care practices and offering sufficient patient-health worker interaction time. CONCLUSIONS This is the first publication reporting on the role of community-based health clubs in promoting patients' health education towards diabetes self-care management in Uganda. The ability to share experiences among patients, improve patients' awareness on healthy living practices and the increased health worker-patient interaction time contribute heavily to the capacity-building for self-care among patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Lubega
- Department of Nursing, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - James Ogwok
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brenda Nabunya
- Department of Nursing, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tusubira AK, Ssinabulya I, Kalyesubula R, Nalwadda CK, Akiteng AR, Ngaruiya C, Rabin TL, Katahoire A, Armstrong-Hough M, Hsieh E, Hawley NL, Schwartz JI. Self-care and healthcare seeking practices among patients with hypertension and diabetes in rural Uganda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001777. [PMID: 38079386 PMCID: PMC10712841 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Implementing effective self-care practices for non-communicable diseases (NCD) prevents complications and morbidity. However, scanty evidence exists among patients in rural sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We sought to describe and compare existing self-care practices among patients with hypertension (HTN) and diabetes (DM) in rural Uganda. METHODS Between April and August 2019, we executed a cross-sectional investigation involving 385 adult patients diagnosed with HTN and/or DM. These participants were systematically randomly selected from three outpatient NCD clinics in the Nakaseke district. Data collection was facilitated using a structured survey that inquired about participants' healthcare-seeking patterns, access to self-care services, education on self-care, medication compliance, and overall health-related quality of life. We utilized Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses to discern disparities in self-care practices, education, and healthcare-seeking actions based on the patient's conditions. RESULTS Of the 385 participants, 39.2% had only DM, 36.9% had only HTN, and 23.9% had both conditions (HTN/DM). Participants with DM or both conditions reported more clinic visits in the past year than those with only HTN (P = 0.005). Similarly, most DM-only and HTN/DM participants monitored their weight monthly, unlike those with only HTN (P<0.0001). Participants with DM or HTN/DM were more frequently educated about their health condition(s), dietary habits, and weight management than those with only HTN. Specifically, education about their conditions yielded adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of 5.57 for DM-only and 4.12 for HTN/DM. Similarly, for diet, aORs were 2.77 (DM-only) and 4.21 (HTN/DM), and for weight management, aORs were 3.62 (DM-only) and 4.02 (HTN/DM). Medication adherence was notably higher in DM-only participants (aOR = 2.19). Challenges in self-care were significantly more reported by women (aOR = 2.07) and those above 65 years (aOR = 5.91), regardless of their specific condition(s). CONCLUSION Compared to rural Ugandans with HTN-only, participants with DM had greater utilization of healthcare services, exposure to self-care education, and adherence to medicine and self-monitoring behaviors. These findings should inform ongoing efforts to improve and integrate NCD service delivery in rural SSA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew K. Tusubira
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Ssinabulya
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda Heart Institute, Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Kalyesubula
- Departments of Physiology and Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability (ACCESS), Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Christine K. Nalwadda
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ann R. Akiteng
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Christine Ngaruiya
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Tracy L. Rabin
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anne Katahoire
- Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mari Armstrong-Hough
- Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, United States of America
| | - Evelyn Hsieh
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Nicola L. Hawley
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Jeremy I. Schwartz
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ndejjo R, Masengere P, Nuwaha F, Ddumba I, Bastiaens H, Wanyenze RK, Musinguzi G. Hypertension and diabetes patients' perspective of challenges and their coping mechanisms in Mukono and Buikwe districts in Uganda - a qualitative study. OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2023; 1:30. [PMID: 38304422 PMCID: PMC10831227 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.13286.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Background: In sub-Saharan Africa, the burden of non-communicable diseases is steadily rising amidst a high prevalence of communicable diseases stretching the healthcare system. This study explored hypertension and diabetes patients' perspective of challenges and their coping mechanisms in Mukono and Buikwe districts in Uganda. Methods: This descriptive qualitative study involved four focus group discussions with 26 patients at four selected health facilities. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and data analysed following the thematic content analysis guided by the semantic approach with the aid of Atlas ti 6.0.15 software. Results: Five themes were identified regarding challenges and coping mechanisms of patients in managing their conditions. 1) Inadequate opportunities for diagnosis, with community screening supporting identification of patients. 2) Accessing care came amidst transport challenges, absence of health workers and the lack of essential supplies for monitoring conditions. Patients borrowed transport funds or trekked to health facilities and some formed groups to contribute resources to buy equipment and supplies. 3) Access to medications was affected by frequent drug stockouts at public health facilities which pushed patients to purchase own drugs or obtain these through friends and networks. However, other patients resorted to cheaper herbal remedies. 4) Monitoring and managing conditions was affected by insufficient knowledge and opportunities for self-monitoring. Information from health workers and experiences from peers bridged the knowledge gap while private facilities or community health workers supported self-monitoring. 5) Adopting changes in behaviour was challenging but patients fitted these within their usual routines and mobilised family members to also adopt lifestyle changes while ignoring those they deemed unrealistic. Conclusions: The coping mechanisms patients adopted to manage their chronic conditions reflects self-care initiatives at the individual and community levels which could be reinforced and supplemented to better support and empower patients as steps are taken to address existing challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rawlance Ndejjo
- Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Paineto Masengere
- Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred Nuwaha
- Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Ddumba
- Department of Health, Mukono District Local Government, Mukono, Uganda
| | - Hilde Bastiaens
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Rhoda K. Wanyenze
- Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Geofrey Musinguzi
- Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chham S, Van Olmen J, Van Damme W, Chhim S, Buffel V, Wouters E, Ir P. Scaling-up integrated type-2 diabetes and hypertension care in Cambodia: what are the barriers to health system performance? Front Public Health 2023; 11:1136520. [PMID: 37333565 PMCID: PMC10272385 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1136520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type-2 diabetes (T2D) and hypertension (HTN) pose a massive burden on health systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In Cambodia, to tackle this issue, the government and partners have introduced several limited interventions to ensure service availability. However, scaling-up these health system interventions is needed to ensure universal supply and access to NCDs care for Cambodians. This study aims to explore the macro-level barriers of the health system that have impeded the scaling-up of integrated T2D and HTN care in Cambodia. Methods Using qualitative research design comprised an articulation between (i) semi-structured interviews (33 key informant interviews and 14 focus group discussions), (ii) a review of the National Strategic Plan and policy documents related to NCD/T2D/HTN care using qualitative document analysis, and (iii) direct field observation to gain an overview into health system factors. We used a health system dynamic framework to map macro-level barriers to the health system elements in thematic content analysis. Results Scaling-up the T2D and HTN care was impeded by the major macro-level barriers of the health system including weak leadership and governance, resource constraints (dominantly financial resources), and poor arrangement of the current health service delivery. These were the result of the complex interaction of the health system elements including the absence of a roadmap as a strategic plan for the NCD approach in health service delivery, limited government investment in NCDs, lack of collaboration between key actors, limited competency of healthcare workers due to insufficient training and lack of supporting resources, mis-match the demand and supply of medicine, and absence of local data to generate evidence-based for the decision-making. Conclusion The health system plays a vital role in responding to the disease burden through the implementation and scale-up of health system interventions. To respond to barriers across the entire health system and the inter-relatedness of each element, and to gear toward the outcome and goals of the health system for a (cost-)effective scale-up of integrated T2D and HTN care, key strategic priorities are: (1) Cultivating leadership and governance, (2) Revitalizing the health service delivery, (3) Addressing resource constraints, and (4) Renovating the social protection schemes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Savina Chham
- National Institute of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, Department of Social Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Josefien Van Olmen
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Damme
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Srean Chhim
- National Institute of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Veerle Buffel
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, Department of Social Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Edwin Wouters
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, Department of Social Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Centre for Health Systems Research and Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Por Ir
- National Institute of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ingenhoff R, Munana R, Weswa I, Gaal J, Sekitoleko I, Mutabazi H, Bodnar BE, Rabin TL, Siddharthan T, Kalyesubula R, Knauf F, Nalwadda CK. Principles for task shifting hypertension and diabetes screening and referral: a qualitative study exploring patient, community health worker and healthcare professional perceptions in rural Uganda. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:881. [PMID: 37173687 PMCID: PMC10176286 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15704-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A shortage of healthcare workers in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) combined with a rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension and diabetes mellitus has resulted in increasing gaps in care delivery for NCDs. As community health workers (CHWs) often play an established role in LMIC healthcare systems, these programs could be leveraged to strengthen healthcare access. The objective of this study was to explore perceptions of task shifting screening and referral for hypertension and diabetes to CHWs in rural Uganda. METHODS This qualitative, exploratory study was conducted in August 2021 among patients, CHWs and healthcare professionals. Through 24 in-depth interviews and ten focus group discussions, we investigated perceptions of task shifting to CHWs in the screening and referral of NCDs in Nakaseke, rural Uganda. This study employed a holistic approach targeting stakeholders involved in the implementation of task shifting programs. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically guided by the framework method. RESULTS Analysis identified elements likely to be required for successful program implementation in this context. Fundamental drivers of CHW programs included structured supervision, patients' access to care through CHWs, community involvement, remuneration and facilitation, as well as building CHW knowledge and skills through training. Additional enablers comprised specific CHW characteristics such as confidence, commitment and motivation, as well as social relations and empathy. Lastly, socioemotional aspects such as trust, virtuous behavior, recognition in the community, and the presence of mutual respect were reported to be critical to the success of task shifting programs. CONCLUSION CHWs are perceived as a useful resource when task shifting NCD screening and referral for hypertension and diabetes from facility-based healthcare workers. Before implementation of a task shifting program, it is essential to consider the multiple layers of needs portrayed in this study. This ensures a successful program that overcomes community concerns and may serve as guidance to implement task shifting in similar settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Ingenhoff
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Richard Munana
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Ivan Weswa
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Julia Gaal
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isaac Sekitoleko
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Kampala, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hillary Mutabazi
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Benjamin E Bodnar
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tracy L Rabin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Trishul Siddharthan
- Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Miami, Coral Gables, USA
| | - Robert Kalyesubula
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Felix Knauf
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Christine K Nalwadda
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Akter K, Kuddus A, Jeny T, Nahar T, Shaha S, Ahmed N, King C, Pires M, Haghparast-Bidgoli H, Azad K, Fottrell E, Morrison J. Stakeholder perceptions on scaling-up community-led interventions for prevention and control of non-communicable diseases in Bangladesh: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:719. [PMID: 37081438 PMCID: PMC10116471 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15551-9] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Engaging communities is an important component of multisectoral action to address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in low- and middle-income countries. We conducted research with non-communicable disease stakeholders in Bangladesh to understand how a community-led intervention which was shown to reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes in rural Bangladesh could be scaled-up. METHODS We purposively sampled any actor who could have an interest in the intervention, or that could affect or be affected by the intervention. We interviewed central level stakeholders from donor agencies, national health policy levels, public, non-governmental, and research sectors to identify scale-up mechanisms. We interviewed community health workers, policy makers, and non-governmental stakeholders, to explore the feasibility and acceptability of implementing the suggested mechanisms. We discussed scale-up options in focus groups with community members who had attended a community-led intervention. We iteratively developed our data collection tools based on our analysis and re-interviewed some participants. We analysed the data deductively using a stakeholder analysis framework, and inductively from codes identified in the data. RESULTS Despite interest in addressing NCDs, there was a lack of a clear community engagement strategy at the government level, and most interventions have been implemented by non-governmental organisations. Many felt the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare should lead on community engagement, and NCD screening and referral has been added to the responsibilities of community health workers and health volunteers. Yet there remains a focus on reproductive health and NCD diagnosis and referral instead of prevention at the community level. There is potential to engage health volunteers in community-led interventions, but their present focus on engaging women for reproductive health does not fit with community needs for NCD prevention. CONCLUSIONS Research highlighted the need for a preventative community engagement strategy to address NCDs, and the potential to utilise existing cadres to scale-up community-led interventions. It will be important to work with key stakeholders to address gender issues and ensure flexibility and responsiveness to community concerns. We indicate areas for further implementation research to develop scaled-up models of community-led interventions to address NCDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kohenour Akter
- Diabetic Association of Bangladesh - Centre for Health Research and Implementation (BADAS-CHRI), BIRDEM, Ramna, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Abdul Kuddus
- Diabetic Association of Bangladesh - Centre for Health Research and Implementation (BADAS-CHRI), BIRDEM, Ramna, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Tasnova Jeny
- Diabetic Association of Bangladesh - Centre for Health Research and Implementation (BADAS-CHRI), BIRDEM, Ramna, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Tasmin Nahar
- Diabetic Association of Bangladesh - Centre for Health Research and Implementation (BADAS-CHRI), BIRDEM, Ramna, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Sanjit Shaha
- Diabetic Association of Bangladesh - Centre for Health Research and Implementation (BADAS-CHRI), BIRDEM, Ramna, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Naveed Ahmed
- Diabetic Association of Bangladesh - Centre for Health Research and Implementation (BADAS-CHRI), BIRDEM, Ramna, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Carina King
- Karolinska Institutet, K9 Global Folkhälsa, K9 GPH Stålsby Lundborg Alfvén, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Malini Pires
- UCL Institute for Global Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | | | - Kishwar Azad
- Diabetic Association of Bangladesh - Centre for Health Research and Implementation (BADAS-CHRI), BIRDEM, Ramna, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Edward Fottrell
- UCL Institute for Global Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Joanna Morrison
- UCL Institute for Global Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nanono J, Neupane D, Ssekamatte T, Ahumuza E, Kasujja FX, Rutebemberwa E. Service Availability and Readiness of Primary Care Health Facilities Offering Hypertension Diagnosis Services in Wakiso District, Uganda, 2019. Prev Chronic Dis 2023; 20:E18. [PMID: 36996407 PMCID: PMC10109518 DOI: 10.5888/pcd20.220236] [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] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypertension is a growing burden in Uganda and other low- and middle-income countries. Appropriate diagnosis services are needed at primary care health facilities to identify, initiate treatment for, and manage hypertension. This study assessed service availability and readiness as well as facilitators and barriers in primary health care facilities for hypertension diagnosis services in Wakiso District, Uganda. METHODS In July and August 2019, we conducted structured interviews at 77 randomly selected primary care health facilities in Wakiso District. We used an interviewer-administered health facility checklist modified from the World Health Organization's service availability and readiness assessment tool. We also conducted 13 key informant interviews with health workers and district-level managers. Readiness was measured by availability of functional diagnostic equipment, related supplies and tools, and health provider attributes. Service availability was measured by assessing hypertension diagnosis services. RESULTS Most (86%; 66 of 77) health facilities offered hypertension diagnosis services and 84% (65 of 77) had digital blood pressure measuring devices; only 69% (53 of 77) had functional blood pressure measuring devices. Lower-level facilities lacked appropriate blood pressure cuffs for use across age groups: 92% (71 of 77) lacked pediatric cuffs and 52% (40 of 77) lacked alternative adult cuffs. Facilitators for diagnosing hypertension included partners that built health facility staff capacity and funds for purchasing hypertension diagnostic supplies; common barriers were nonfunctional equipment, delays in receiving training, and inadequate staffing. CONCLUSION The results highlight the need for an adequate supply of devices, routine replacements or repairs, and frequent refresher training for health workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jackline Nanono
- Makerere University School of Public Health, New Mulago Hospital Complex, Mulago Hill Road, PO Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dinesh Neupane
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | - Francis Xavier Kasujja
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- The Chronic Diseases and Cancer Theme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rural Communities in CESW Africa and Latin America: Contexts for Well-being of Older Adults. JOURNAL OF POPULATION AGEING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12062-022-09398-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
14
|
Puvanachandra P, Ssesumugabo C, Balugaba BE, Ivers R, Kobusingye O, Peden M. The epidemiology and characteristics of injuries to under 5's in a secondary city in Uganda: a retrospective review of hospital data. Int J Inj Contr Saf Promot 2022; 29:550-555. [PMID: 35797975 DOI: 10.1080/17457300.2022.2089686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Child injuries are largely preventable yet cause significant mortality and morbidity globally. Injury data from low-income countries is limited for children under the age of 5 and therefore the current understanding of the magnitude of injuries in this age group is low. Hospital-based registries are one mechanism by which injury data can be gathered. This paper presents findings from a retrospective hospital record review of 4 hospitals in Jinja, a rural setting in Uganda, involving the extraction of data for children under the age of 5-years who sustained an injury during a 6-month period in 2019. A total of 225 injury cases were retrieved from the hospitals. Over half (57.3%) of the events occurred among males. The majority (92%) suffered one injury per injury event. Most of the injuries occurred among those aged 13 to 24 months (32.9%). Burns (32%) and cuts (20%) were the most common cause of injury. This study presents a hospital-based analysis of injuries amongst under 5's in rural Uganda. It provides information on the characteristics of children entering healthcare facilities in Uganda and highlights the burden of paediatric injuries in the hospital setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Puvanachandra
- The George Institute for Global Health, UK, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - C Ssesumugabo
- School of Public Health, Makerere School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - B E Balugaba
- School of Public Health, Makerere School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - R Ivers
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - O Kobusingye
- School of Public Health, Makerere School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - M Peden
- The George Institute for Global Health, UK, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Alaofè H, Okechukwu A, Yeo S, Magrath P, Amoussa Hounkpatin W, Ehiri J, Rosales C. Formative Qualitative Research: Design Considerations for a Self-Directed Lifestyle Intervention for Type-2 Diabetes Patients Using Human-Centered Design Principles in Benin. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11552. [PMID: 36141824 PMCID: PMC9517468 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Given the burgeoning prevalence of Type-2 Diabetes (T2D) in Benin and other sub-Saharan countries, tailored diabetes self-management interventions are urgently needed. Human-centered designs can be useful for identifying beneficiaries' needs while keeping in mind feasibility and viability in a given context. Therefore, this study examined the acceptability and community perceptions of a self-directed lifestyle program for T2D patients in Cotonou, southern Benin. Data were collected using focus group discussions (FDGs) with T2D patients (n = 3; 32 participants), academic partners (n = 2; 16 participants), and community partners (n = 2; 12 participants). All FDG sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed from French into English verbatim, and analyzed using MAXQDA 2020. Most participants found the program to be useful and feasible. However, they preferred pictorial brochures as training materials and suggested community health workers as facilitators, assisted by clinicians or dietitians. They recommended community-based delivery mechanisms and mobile applications like WhatsApp to enhance patient adherence. Participants' characteristics, tangible health benefits, incentives, and simple curriculums were cited as critical to program feasibility, effectiveness, and acceptability. This study provides a deeper understanding of potential diabetes self-management participants' needs and concerns. Moreover, it highlights the need to consider key stakeholders' needs and voices for effective intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Halimatou Alaofè
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Abidemi Okechukwu
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Sarah Yeo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Priscilla Magrath
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Waliou Amoussa Hounkpatin
- School of Nutrition and Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi 01 BP 526, Benin
| | - John Ehiri
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Cecilia Rosales
- Division of Public Health Practice & Translational Research, University of Arizona, Phoenix Plaza Building, 550 E. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Castillo-Laborde C, Hirmas-Adauy M, Matute I, Jasmen A, Urrejola O, Molina X, Awad C, Frey-Moreno C, Pumarino-Lira S, Descalzi-Rojas F, Ruiz TJ, Plass B. Barriers and Facilitators in Access to Diabetes, Hypertension, and Dyslipidemia Medicines: A Scoping Review. Public Health Rev 2022; 43:1604796. [PMID: 36120091 PMCID: PMC9479461 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2022.1604796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Identify barriers and facilitators in access to medicines for diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, considering patient, health provider, and health system perspectives. Methods: Scoping review based on Joanna Briggs methodology. The search considered PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Academic Search Ultimate, Web of Science, SciELO Citation Index, and grey literature. Two researchers conducted screening and eligibility phases. Data were thematically analyzed. Results: The review included 219 documents. Diabetes was the most studied condition; most of the evidence comes from patients and the United States. Affordability and availability of medicines were the most reported dimension and specific barrier respectively, both cross-cutting concerns. Among high- and middle-income countries, identified barriers were cost of medicines, accompaniment by professionals, long distances to facilities, and cultural aspects; cost of transportation emerges in low-income settings. Facilitators reported were financial accessibility, trained health workers, medicines closer to communities, and patients’ education. Conclusion: Barriers and facilitators are determined by socioeconomic and cultural conditions, highlighting the role of health systems in regulatory and policy context (assuring financial coverage and free medicines); providers’ role bringing medicines closer; and patients’ health education and disease management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Castillo-Laborde
- Centro de Epidemiología y Políticas de Salud, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: Carla Castillo-Laborde,
| | - Macarena Hirmas-Adauy
- Centro de Epidemiología y Políticas de Salud, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Isabel Matute
- Centro de Epidemiología y Políticas de Salud, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Anita Jasmen
- Biblioteca Biomédica, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Oscar Urrejola
- Centro de Epidemiología y Políticas de Salud, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Xaviera Molina
- Centro de Epidemiología y Políticas de Salud, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camila Awad
- Centro de Epidemiología y Políticas de Salud, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Catalina Frey-Moreno
- Carrera de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sofia Pumarino-Lira
- Carrera de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fernando Descalzi-Rojas
- Carrera de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Tomás José Ruiz
- Carrera de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Barbara Plass
- Carrera de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mulugeta TK, Kassa DH. Readiness of the primary health care units and associated factors for the management of hypertension and type II diabetes mellitus in Sidama, Ethiopia. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13797. [PMID: 36042860 PMCID: PMC9420406 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In low-income nations such as Ethiopia, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are becoming more common. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health has prioritized NCD prevention, early diagnosis, and management. However, research on the readiness of public health facilities to address NCDs, particularly hypertension and type II diabetes mellitus, is limited. Methods The study used a multistage cluster sampling method and a health facility-based cross-sectional study design. A total of 83 health facilities were evaluated based on WHO's Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) tool to investigate the availability of services and the readiness of the primary health care unit (PHCU) to manage type II diabetes and Hypertension. Trained data collectors interviewed with PHCU head or NCD focal persons. The study tried to investigate (1) the availability of basic amenities and the four domains: staff and guidelines, basic equipment, diagnostic materials, and essential medicines used to manage DM and HPN, (2) the readiness of the PHCU to manage DM and HPN. The data were processed by using SPSS version 24. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage, inferential statistics like the chi-square test, and logistic regression models were used to analyze the data. Results Of the 82 health facilities, only 29% and 28% of the PHCU identified as ready to manage HPN and DM. Facility type, facility location, presence of guidelines, trained staff, groups of antihypertensive and antidiabetic medicines had a significant impact (P < 0.05) on the readiness of the PHCU to manage HPN and DM at a 0.05 level of significance. Facilities located in urban were 8.2 times more likely to be ready to manage HPN cases than facilities located in rural (AOR = 8.2, 95% CI [2.4-28.5]) and P < 0.05. Conclusion and recommendation The results identified comparatively poor and deprived readiness to offer HPN and DM services at lower-level health facilities(health centers). Equipping the lower-level health facilities with screening and diagnostic materials, essential medicines, and provision of basic training for the health care providers and NCD guidelines should be available, especially in the lower health care facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tigist Kebede Mulugeta
- School of Nutrition, Food Science and Technology, Department of Human Nutrition Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, Department of Public Health Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Dejene Hailu Kassa
- School of Public Health, Department of Public Health Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kisigo GA, Mcharo OC, Robert JL, Peck RN, Sundararajan R, Okello ES. Understanding barriers and facilitators to clinic attendance and medication adherence among adults with hypertensive urgency in Tanzania. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000919. [PMID: 36962785 PMCID: PMC10021323 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Hypertensive urgency is a major risk factor for cardiovascular events and premature deaths. Lack of medication adherence is associated with poor health outcomes among patients with hypertensive urgency in resource-limited settings. To inform the development of tailored interventions to improve health outcomes in this population, this study aimed at understanding facilitators and barriers to clinic attendance and medication adherence among Tanzanian adults with hypertensive urgency. We conducted in-depth interviews with 38 purposively selected participants from three groups: 1) patients with hypertension attending hypertension clinic, 2) patients with hypertension not attending hypertension clinic, and 3) clinic health workers. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide which included open-ended questions with prompts to encourage detailed responses. In their narrative, patients and healthcare workers discussed 21 types of barriers/facilitators to clinic attendance and medication adherence: 12 common to both behaviors (traditional medicine, knowledge and awareness, stigma, social support, insurance, reminder cues, symptoms, self-efficacy, peer support, specialized care, social services, religious beliefs); 6 distinct to clinic attendance (transport, clinic location, appointment, patient-provider interaction, service fragmentation, quality of care); and 3 distinct to medication adherence (drug stock, side effects, medicine beliefs). The majority of identified barriers/facilitators overlap between clinic attendance and medication adherence. The identified barriers may be surmountable using tailored supportive intervention approaches, such as peer counselors, to help patients overcome social challenges of clinic attendance and medication adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Godfrey A. Kisigo
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Center for Global Health, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Onike C. Mcharo
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - John L. Robert
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Robert N. Peck
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Center for Global Health, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Radhika Sundararajan
- Center for Global Health, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Elialilia S. Okello
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Muddu M, Semitala FC, Kimera I, Mbuliro M, Ssennyonjo R, Kigozi SP, Katwesigye R, Ayebare F, Namugenyi C, Mugabe F, Mutungi G, Longenecker CT, Katahoire AR, Ssinabulya I, Schwartz JI. Improved hypertension control at six months using an adapted WHO HEARTS-based implementation strategy at a large urban HIV clinic in Uganda. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:699. [PMID: 35610717 PMCID: PMC9131679 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08045-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To adapt a World Health Organization HEARTS-based implementation strategy for hypertension (HTN) control at a large urban HIV clinic in Uganda and determine six-month HTN and HIV outcomes among a cohort of adult persons living with HIV (PLHIV). METHODS Our implementation strategy included six elements: health education, medication adherence, and lifestyle counseling; routine HTN screening; task shifting of HTN treatment; evidence-based HTN treatment protocol; consistent supply of HTN medicines free to patients; and inclusion of HTN-specific monitoring and evaluation tools. We conducted a pre-post study from October 2019 to March 2020 to determine the effect of this strategy on HTN and HIV outcomes at baseline and six months. Our cohort comprised adult PLHIV diagnosed with HTN who made at least one clinic visit within two months prior to study onset. FINDINGS We enrolled 1,015 hypertensive PLHIV. The mean age was 50.1 ± 9.5 years and 62.6% were female. HTN outcomes improved between baseline and six months: mean systolic BP (154.3 ± 20.0 to 132.3 ± 13.8 mmHg, p < 0.001); mean diastolic BP (97.7 ± 13.1 to 85.3 ± 9.5 mmHg, p < 0.001) and proportion of patients with controlled HTN (9.3% to 74.1%, p < 0.001). The HTN care cascade also improved: treatment initiation (13.4% to 100%), retention in care (16.2% to 98.5%), monitoring (16.2% to 98.5%), and BP control among those initiated on HTN treatment (2.2% to 75.2%). HIV cascade steps remained high (> 95% at baseline and six months) and viral suppression was unchanged (98.7% to 99.2%, p = 0.712). Taking ART for more than two years and HIV viral suppression were independent predictors of HTN control at six months. CONCLUSIONS A HEARTS-based implementation strategy at a large, urban HIV center facilitates integration of HTN and HIV care and improves HTN outcomes while sustaining HIV control. Further implementation research is needed to study HTN/HIV integration in varied clinical settings among diverse populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Muddu
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C. Semitala
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Kimera
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mary Mbuliro
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rebecca Ssennyonjo
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Simon P. Kigozi
- grid.463352.50000 0004 8340 3103Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rodgers Katwesigye
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Florence Ayebare
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Christabellah Namugenyi
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Frank Mugabe
- grid.415705.2Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Chris T. Longenecker
- grid.67105.350000 0001 2164 3847Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Anne R. Katahoire
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Ssinabulya
- grid.416252.60000 0000 9634 2734Uganda Heart Institute, Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jeremy I. Schwartz
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Shelton RC, Philbin MM, Ramanadhan S. Qualitative Research Methods in Chronic Disease: Introduction and Opportunities to Promote Health Equity. Annu Rev Public Health 2022; 43:37-57. [PMID: 34936827 PMCID: PMC10580302 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-publhealth-012420-105104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Public health research that addresses chronic disease has historically underutilized and undervalued qualitative methods. This has limited the field's ability to advance (a) a more in-depth understanding of the factors and processes that shape health behaviors, (b) contextualized explanations of interventions' impacts (e.g., why and how something did or did not work for recipients and systems), and (c) opportunities for building and testing theories. We introduce frameworks and methodological approaches common to qualitative research, discuss how and when to apply them in order to advance health equity, and highlight relevant strengths and challenges. We provide an overview of data collection, sampling, and analysis for qualitative research, and we describe research questions that can be addressed by applying qualitative methods across the continuum of chronic disease research. Finally, we offer recommendations to promote the strategic application of rigorous qualitative methods, with an emphasis on priority areas to enhance health equity across the evidence generation continuum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C Shelton
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; ,
| | - Morgan M Philbin
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; ,
| | - Shoba Ramanadhan
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Siddharthan T, Kalyesubula R, Morgan B, Ermer T, Rabin TL, Kayongo A, Munana R, Anton N, Kast K, Schaeffner E, Kirenga B, Knauf F. The rural Uganda non-communicable disease (RUNCD) study: prevalence and risk factors of self-reported NCDs from a cross sectional survey. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2036. [PMID: 34743687 PMCID: PMC8572568 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12123-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are an increasing global concern, with morbidity and mortality largely occurring in low- and middle-income settings. We established the prospective Rural Uganda Non-Communicable Disease (RUNCD) cohort to longitudinally characterize the NCD prevalence, progression, and complications in rural Africa. Methods We conducted a population-based census for NCD research. We systematically enrolled adults in each household among three sub-counties of the larger Nakaseke Health district and collected baseline demographic, health status, and self-reported chronic disease information. We present our data on self-reported chronic disease, as stratified by age, sex, educational attainment, and sub-county. Results A total of 16,694 adults were surveyed with 10,563 (63%) respondents enrolled in the self-reported study. Average age was 37.8 years (SD = 16.5) and 45% (7481) were male. Among self-reported diseases, hypertension (HTN) was most prevalent (6.3%). 1.1% of participants reported a diagnosis of diabetes, 1.1% asthma, 0.7% COPD, and 0.4% kidney disease. 2.4% of the population described more than one NCD. Self-reported HTN was significantly higher in the peri-urban subcounty than in the other two rural sub-counties (p < 0.001); diagnoses for all other diseases did not differ significantly between sub-counties. Odds for self-reported HTN increased significantly with age (OR = 1.87 per 10 years of age, 95% CI 1.78–1.96). Male sex was associated with lower odds of reporting asthma (OR = 0.53, 95% CI 0.34–0.82) or HTN (OR = 0.31, 95% CI 0.26–0.40). Conclusions The RUNCD will establish one of the largest NCD patient cohorts in rural Africa. First analysis highlights the feasibility of systematically enrolling large numbers of adults living in a rural Ugandan district. In addition, our study demonstrates low levels of self-reported NCDs compared to the nation-wide established levels, emphasizing the need to better educate, characterize, and care for the majority of rural communities. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-12123-7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trishul Siddharthan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1951 NW 7th Ave, Suite 2308, Miami, FL, 33136, USA. .,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Robert Kalyesubula
- Makerere College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,African Community Center for Social Sustainability (ACCESS), Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Brooks Morgan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1951 NW 7th Ave, Suite 2308, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Theresa Ermer
- Faculty of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tracy L Rabin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alex Kayongo
- Makerere College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,African Community Center for Social Sustainability (ACCESS), Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Richard Munana
- Makerere College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,African Community Center for Social Sustainability (ACCESS), Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Nora Anton
- World Health Summit c/o Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Kast
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elke Schaeffner
- Institute of Public Health, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bruce Kirenga
- Makerere College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Felix Knauf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Nanyonga RC, Spies LA, Nakaggwa F. The effectiveness of nurse-led group interventions on hypertension lifestyle management: A mixed method study. J Nurs Scholarsh 2021; 54:286-295. [PMID: 34747122 DOI: 10.1111/jnu.12732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypertension is prevalent in Uganda and achieving treatment goals remains a challenge. Our aim was to assess the impact of a bundled nurse-led intervention on hypertension physiologic measures and lifestyle modification, and to explore perceptions of the interventions to enhance sustainability. DESIGN AND SETTING We employed a sequential explanatory mixed-method design. The study was conducted at a large urban private hospital in Uganda from September 2018 to May 2019. SAMPLE Participants were clinic patients with hypertension currently under care. A total of 54 participants were enrolled in two study groups. Two focus groups with 16 participants and 2 nurse-educator interviews were conducted. METHODS Blood pressure and weight were measured at baseline, three, six, and nine months. The Self-Care of Hypertension Inventory was used to assess lifestyle modification. Monthly education and group-support with text-message follow-up were implemented. Two focus-groups and nurse-educator interviews were conducted to assess perceptions post-implementation. The analysis included descriptive statistic, multivariate analysis and qualitative analysis for themes and subthemes. FINDINGS Overall, participants had a mean weight loss of 7.7 kg (p = 0.001) and a mean reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 9.5 mm Hg (p = 0.001). Improvement in biometric outcomes was associated with lifestyle modification such as taking medicine as prescribed (p = 0.008), eat lots of fruit and vegetables (p = 0.043), and control your body weight (p = 0.015). Thematic analysis yielded the following themes: Knowledge and understanding, Attitude change, Adherence-a real struggle, and Adapting to what suits us. Participants found group support, shared learning, and knowledge reinforcement enhanced their knowledge and self-efficacy. Nurse educators were motivated by the patients' favorable responses to the Bundled Education and Support with Text (BEST) intervention. CONCLUSION Findings support the use of nurse-led interventions to enhance the achievement of hypertension treatment goals. To sustain the achieved lifestyle modification and blood pressure outcomes, participants expressed a desire for continued support, information access, and inclusion of patients as champions for knowledge dissemination. Future studies need to explore the provision of enabling structures to support nurse-led interventions in routine non-Communicable disease (NCD) care. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Hypertension knowledge-gaps exist among patients and may reflect missed opportunities for patient engagement and education for behavior change. Bundled nurse-led hypertension interventions can significantly improve lifestyle modification and enhance hypertension outcomes. Persons supported and empowered with knowledge can act as conduits to wider communities in championing knowledge dissemination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lori A Spies
- Louise Herrington School of Nursing, Baylor University, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Shiri T, Birungi J, Garrib AV, Kivuyo SL, Namakoola I, Mghamba J, Musinguzi J, Kimaro G, Mutungi G, Nyirenda MJ, Okebe J, Ramaiya K, Bachmann M, Sewankambo NK, Mfinanga S, Jaffar S, Niessen LW. Patient and health provider costs of integrated HIV, diabetes and hypertension ambulatory health services in low-income settings - an empirical socio-economic cohort study in Tanzania and Uganda. BMC Med 2021; 19:230. [PMID: 34503496 PMCID: PMC8431904 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-021-02094-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Integration of health services might be an efficient strategy for managing multiple chronic conditions in sub-Saharan Africa, considering the scope of treatments and synergies in service delivery. Proven to promote compliance, integration may lead to increased economies-of-scale. However, evidence on the socio-economic consequences of integration for providers and patients is lacking. We assessed the clinical resource use, staff time, relative service efficiency and overall societal costs associated with integrating HIV, diabetes and hypertension services in single one-stop clinics where persons with one or more of these conditions were managed. METHODS 2273 participants living with HIV infection, diabetes, or hypertension or combinations of these conditions were enrolled in 10 primary health facilities in Tanzania and Uganda and followed-up for up to 12 months. We collected data on resources used from all participants and on out-of-pocket costs in a sub-sample of 1531 participants, while a facility-level costing study was conducted at each facility. Health worker time per participant was assessed in a time-motion morbidity-stratified study among 228 participants. The mean health service cost per month and out-of-pocket costs per participant visit were calculated in 2020 US$ prices. Nested bootstrapping from these samples accounted for uncertainties. A data envelopment approach was used to benchmark the efficiency of the integrated services. Last, we estimated the budgetary consequences of integration, based on prevalence-based projections until 2025, for both country populations. RESULTS Their average retention after 1 year service follow-up was 1911/2273 (84.1%). Five hundred and eighty-two of 2273 (25.6%) participants had two or all three chronic conditions and 1691/2273 (74.4%) had a single condition. During the study, 84/2239 (3.8%) participants acquired a second or third condition. The mean service costs per month of managing two conditions in a single participant were $39.11 (95% CI 33.99, 44.33), $32.18 (95% CI 30.35, 34.07) and $22.65 (95% CI 21.86, 23.43) for the combinations of HIV and diabetes and of HIV and hypertension, diabetes and hypertension, respectively. These costs were 34.4% (95% CI 17.9%, 41.9%) lower as compared to managing any two conditions separately in two different participants. The cost of managing an individual with all three conditions was 48.8% (95% CI 42.1%, 55.3%) lower as compared to managing these conditions separately. Out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure per participant per visit was $7.33 (95% CI 3.70, 15.86). This constituted 23.4% (95% CI 9.9, 54.3) of the total monthly service expenditure per patient and 11.7% (95% CI 7.3, 22.1) of their individual total household income. The integrated clinics' mean efficiency benchmark score was 0.86 (range 0.30-1.00) suggesting undercapacity that could serve more participants without compromising quality of care. The estimated budgetary consequences of managing multi-morbidity in these types of integrated clinics is likely to increase by 21.5% (range 19.2-23.4%) in the next 5 years, including substantial savings of 21.6% on the provision of integrated care for vulnerable patients with multi-morbidities. CONCLUSION Integration of HIV services with diabetes and hypertension control reduces both health service and household costs, substantially. It is likely an efficient and equitable way to address the increasing burden of financially vulnerable households among Africa's ageing populations. Additional economic evidence is needed from longer-term larger-scale implementation studies to compare extended integrated care packages directly simultaneously with evidence on sustained clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tinevimbo Shiri
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Josephine Birungi
- The AIDS Support Organisation, Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala, Uganda
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Anupam V Garrib
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Sokoine L Kivuyo
- National Institutes for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ivan Namakoola
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Janneth Mghamba
- Directors Office, Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joshua Musinguzi
- Directors Office, Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Godfather Kimaro
- School of Public Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Gerald Mutungi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Control Programme, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moffat J Nyirenda
- The AIDS Support Organisation, Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Joseph Okebe
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Kaushik Ramaiya
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
- Hindu Mandal Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - M Bachmann
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Sayoki Mfinanga
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
- National Institutes for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- School of Public Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Shabbar Jaffar
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Louis W Niessen
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
O'Donovan J, Saul Namanda A, Hamala R. Exploring supervision for volunteer community health workers in Mukono District, Uganda: An exploratory mixed-methods study. Glob Public Health 2021; 17:1958-1972. [PMID: 34459360 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1969671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Community Health Worker (CHW) supervision is an under-researched area. This mixed-methods study engaged key stakeholders involved in CHW supervision in Mukono District, Uganda including CHWs (n = 14), District Health Office officials (n = 5), NGO programme managers (n = 3) and facility-based health staff (n = 3). Our study aimed to explore how supervision is currently conceptualised and delivered in this setting, the desired qualities of a potential supervisor, as well as the challenges regarding supervision and potential solutions to address these. To understand these concepts, we conducted structured surveys and individual interviews. Survey data were analysed in SPSS using descriptive statistics. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed in NVivo using conventional content analysis. This study revealed current CHW supervision in this context is fragmented. Supervision is perceived both as a means of motivating CHWs and facilitating ongoing training, as well as a way of holding CHWs accountable for their work. Stakeholders identified technical knowledge and expertise, strong interpersonal skills and cultural awareness as desirable qualities for a supervisor. Challenges surrounding supervision included a shortage of funding, a lack of guidelines on supervision, and infrequent supervision. To address these challenges, stakeholders proposed the need for increased funding, creating clearer job descriptions for supervisors, and in-person supervisory meetings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James O'Donovan
- Learning and New Technologies Research Group, Department of Education, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Division of Research and Health Equity, Omni Med, Mukono, Uganda
| | | | - Rebecca Hamala
- Division of Research and Health Equity, Omni Med, Mukono, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Tusubira AK, Nalwadda CK, Akiteng AR, Hsieh E, Ngaruiya C, Rabin TL, Katahoire A, Hawley NL, Kalyesubula R, Ssinabulya I, Schwartz JI, Armstrong-Hough M. Social Support for Self-Care: Patient Strategies for Managing Diabetes and Hypertension in Rural Uganda. Ann Glob Health 2021; 87:86. [PMID: 34458110 PMCID: PMC8378074 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.3308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Low-income countries suffer a growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Self-care practices are crucial for successfully managing NCDs to prevent complications. However, little is known about how patients practice self-care in resource-limited settings. Objective We sought to understand self-care efforts and their facilitators among patients with diabetes and hypertension in rural Uganda. Methods Between April and June 2019, we conducted a cross-sectional qualitative study among adult patients from outpatient NCD clinics at three health facilities in Uganda. We conducted in-depth interviews exploring self-care practices for hypertension and/or diabetes and used content analysis to identify emergent themes. Results Nineteen patients participated. Patients said they preferred conventional medicines as their first resort, but often used traditional medicines to mitigate the impact of inconsistent access to prescribed medicines or as a supplement to those medicines. Patients adopted a wide range of vernacular practices to supplement treatment or replace unavailable diagnostic tests, such as tasting urine to gauge blood-sugar level. Finally, patients sought and received both instrumental and emotional support for self-care activities from networks of family and peers. Patients saw their children as their most reliable source of support facilitating self-care, especially as a source of money for medicines, transport and home necessities. Conclusion Patients valued conventional medicines but engaged in varied self-care practices. They depended upon networks of social support from family and peers to facilitate self-care. Interventions to improve self-care may be more effective if they improve access to prescribed medicines and engage or enhance patients' social support networks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew K. Tusubira
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Christine K. Nalwadda
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ann R. Akiteng
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Evelyn Hsieh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Christine Ngaruiya
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Tracy L. Rabin
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Anne Katahoire
- Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nicola L. Hawley
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robert Kalyesubula
- Departments of Physiology and Internal Medicine, Makerere College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability (ACCESS), Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Isaac Ssinabulya
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda Heart Institute, Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Makerere College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jeremy I. Schwartz
- Uganda Initiative for Integrated Management of Non-Communicable Diseases, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Network for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mari Armstrong-Hough
- Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Batte C, Mukisa J, Rykiel N, Mukunya D, Checkley W, Knauf F, Kalyesubula R, Siddharthan T. Acceptability of patient-centered hypertension education delivered by community health workers among people living with HIV/AIDS in rural Uganda. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1343. [PMID: 34233648 PMCID: PMC8264981 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11411-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of hypertension is increasing among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, knowledge of the complications and management of hypertension among PLWHA in Uganda remains low. We explored the acceptability of implementing hypertension (HTN) specific health education by community health workers (CHWs) among PLWHA in rural Uganda. Methods We conducted a qualitative study consisting of 22 in-depth interviews (14 PLWHA/HTN and 8 CHWs), 3 focus group discussions (FGDs), 2 with PLWHA/HTN and 1 with CHWs from Nakaseke district, Uganda. Participants were interviewed after a single session interaction with the CHW. Data were transcribed from luganda (local language) into English and analyzed using thematic analysis. We used Sekhon’s model of acceptability of health Interventions to explore participants’ perceptions. Results Participants believed CHWs utilized easy-to-understand, colloquial, non-technical language during education delivery, had a pre-existing rapport with the CHWs that aided faster communication, and had more time to explain illness than medical doctors had. Participants found the educational material (PocketDoktor™) to be simple and easy to understand, and perceived that the education would lead to improved health outcomes. Participants stated their health was a priority and sought further disease-specific information. We also found that CHWs were highly motivated to carry out the patient-centered education. While delivering the education, CHWs experienced difficulties in keeping up with the technical details regarding hypertension in the PocketDoktor™, financial stress and patient questions beyond their self-perceived skill level and experience. PLWHA/HTN had challenges accessing the health facility where the intervention was delivered and preferred a household setting. Conclusions Hypertension patient-centered education delivered by CHWs using the PocketDoktor™ was acceptable to PLWHA and hypertension in Nakaseke area in rural, Uganda. There is need for further studies to determine the cost implications of delivering this intervention among PLWHA across LMIC settings. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-11411-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles Batte
- School of Medicine, Lung Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Upper Hill Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - John Mukisa
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Natalie Rykiel
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA.,Center for Global Non-Communicable Disease Research and Training, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| | - David Mukunya
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| | - William Checkley
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA.,Center for Global Non-Communicable Disease Research and Training, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| | - Felix Knauf
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Kalyesubula
- School of Medicine, Lung Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Upper Hill Mulago Hill, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Trishul Siddharthan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA.,Center for Global Non-Communicable Disease Research and Training, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kiptoo J, Yadesa TM, Muzoora C, Namugambe JS, Tamukong R. Predictors of Medication-Related Emergency Department Admissions Among Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, South-Western Uganda. Open Access Emerg Med 2021; 13:279-290. [PMID: 34234583 PMCID: PMC8254663 DOI: 10.2147/oaem.s309508] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication-related emergency department admissions impose a huge and unnecessary burden on the healthcare system. We sought to determine the prevalence and predictors of medication-related emergency department admissions, among patients with cardiovascular diseases at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda. METHODS Institutional research ethics approval was secured to conduct a cross-sectional study at the Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital emergency department, between February and September, 2020. All eligible and consenting patients were enrolled in a consecutive manner after a preliminary diagnosis was made by the attending physician. Structured questionnaire interview and comprehensive medication history reviews were used to identify medication therapy problems, in collaboration with a resident physician present on duty. We used sequential categorization for medication therapy problem(s). Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were used to determine prevalence and predictors of medication-related emergency department admissions. RESULTS Out of the 128 patients interviewed, 105 (82%) patient admissions were associated with a medication therapy problem: ineffectiveness of drug therapy (53.3%, 56), medication non-adherence (42.9%, 45), and adverse drug reactions (3.8%, 4). Out of a total of 90 incidences of medication non-adherence, 34.4% (31/90) were due to lack of understanding of patient medication regimen, and 27.8% (25/90) due to unaffordable cost of medicines. Female gender (AOR = 4.31 [1.43, 13.03 at 95% CI]; P-value = 0.010]) and a history of tobacco use (AOR = 9.58 [1.14, 80.28 at 95% CI]; P-value = 0.037) were statistically significant predictors of medication-related emergency department admissions in adjusted analysis. CONCLUSION Four in five emergency department admissions were associated with medication-related causes, majorly due to ineffectiveness of drug therapy. Knowledge gap on patient medication regimens was the most prevalent cause for medication non-adherence. Female gender and previous or current tobacco use was an independent risk factor for medication-related admissions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiptoo
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Tadele Mekuriya Yadesa
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- World Bank, ACE II, Pharmacy Biotechnology and Traditional Medicine Center, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Conrad Muzoora
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Juliet Sanyu Namugambe
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- World Bank, ACE II, Pharmacy Biotechnology and Traditional Medicine Center, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Robert Tamukong
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- World Bank, ACE II, Pharmacy Biotechnology and Traditional Medicine Center, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Moreira RP, Ferreira JCV, Morais HCC, Felício JF, de Oliveira Ferreira G, Rouberte ESC, Rolim ILTP, Cavalcante TF. Accuracy of the clinical indicators for Readiness for enhanced health management. Int J Nurs Knowl 2021; 33:100-107. [PMID: 34105897 DOI: 10.1111/2047-3095.12338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE to analyze accuracy measures of the clinical indicators of Readiness for enhanced health management in patients with arterial hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus METHODS: prospective diagnostic accuracy study conducted with 359 patients with hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus, followed up in primary healthcare. Stratified random sampling was used to recruit participants. An assessment form was applied with sociodemographic data, health conditions, and information related to the clinical indicators under investigation. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and likelihood ratios were analyzed FINDINGS: the sample was composed of 359 participants. The prevalence of Readiness for enhanced health management was 93.8%. There was a statistically significant association between the diagnosis and age under 60 years (p < 0.001), having only one chronic condition (p < 0.001), having normal blood pressure (p = 0.017) and blood glucose (p = 0.013) values, and having a nonsedentary (p = 0.026) and nonalcoholic (p = 0.044) lifestyle. All clinical indicators had high predictive values in predicting the nursing diagnosis under investigation. The indicator expresses desire to enhance management of symptoms was the most sensitive (99.7%) and specific (100%). The indicator expresses desire to enhance management of prescribed regimens was also highly specific (100%) CONCLUSION: all clinical indicators were accurate in predicting Readiness for enhanced health management IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: knowing which clinical indicators and sociodemographic/clinical characteristics best predict Readiness for enhanced health management, nurses in primary care can better plan nursing interventions and direct their goals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafaella Pessoa Moreira
- Health Sciences Institute, College of Nursing, University for International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, Brazil
| | | | - Huana Carolina Cândido Morais
- Health Sciences Institute, College of Nursing, University for International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, Brazil
| | - Janiel Ferreira Felício
- College of Nursing, University for International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, Brazil
| | | | - Emília Soares Chaves Rouberte
- Health Sciences Institute, College of Nursing, University for International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, Brazil
| | | | - Tahissa Frota Cavalcante
- Health Sciences Institute, College of Nursing, University for International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Exploring country-wide equitable government health care facility access in Uganda. Int J Equity Health 2021; 20:38. [PMID: 33461568 PMCID: PMC7814723 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-020-01371-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rural access to health care remains a challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa due to urban bias, social determinants of health, and transportation-related barriers. Health systems in Sub-Saharan Africa often lack equity, leaving disproportionately less health center access for the poorest residents with the highest health care needs. Lack of health care equity in Sub-Saharan Africa has become of increasing concern as countries enter a period of simultaneous high infectious and non-communicable disease burdens, the second of which requires a robust primary care network due to a long continuum of care. Bicycle ownership has been proposed and promoted as one tool to reduce travel-related barriers to health-services among the poor. Methods An accessibility analysis was conducted to identify the proportion of Ugandans within one-hour travel time to government health centers using walking, bicycling, and driving scenarios. Statistically significant clusters of high and low travel time to health centers were calculated using spatial statistics. Random Forest analysis was used to explore the relationship between poverty, population density, health center access in minutes, and time saved in travel to health centers using a bicycle instead of walking. Linear Mixed-Effects Models were then used to validate the performance of the random forest models. Results The percentage of Ugandans within a one-hour walking distance of the nearest health center II is 71.73%, increasing to 90.57% through bicycles. Bicycles increased one-hour access to the nearest health center III from 53.05 to 80.57%, increasing access to the tiered integrated national laboratory system by 27.52 percentage points. Significant clusters of low health center access were associated with areas of high poverty and urbanicity. A strong direct relationship between travel time to health center and poverty exists at all health center levels. Strong disparities between urban and rural populations exist, with rural poor residents facing disproportionately long travel time to health center compared to wealthier urban residents. Conclusions The results of this study highlight how the most vulnerable Ugandans, who are the least likely to afford transportation, experience the highest prohibitive travel distances to health centers. Bicycles appear to be a “pro-poor” tool to increase health access equity. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12939-020-01371-5.
Collapse
|
30
|
"It's because I think too much": Perspectives and experiences of adults with hypertension engaged in HIV care in northern Tanzania. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243059. [PMID: 33270765 PMCID: PMC7714125 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypertension, a leading risk for cardiovascular mortality, is an important co-morbidity among people living with HIV (PLHIV). In Tanzania, hypertension prevalence among PLHIV approaches 20 to 30%. However, most patients are unaware of their diagnosis and are not receiving treatment. Understanding the barriers to hypertension care is a critical first step in developing interventions to improve cardiovascular outcomes among PLHIV in Tanzania and similar settings. Methods Between September 1st and November 26th, 2018 thirteen semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted with hypertensive patients engaged in HIV care in two HIV clinics located in government health facilities in northern Tanzania. Interviews were audio-recorded, translated into English, transcribed and thematically coded using NVivo. Data analysis was conducted using applied thematic analysis. Results Participants had a median age of 54 (IQR 41–65) years. Of the 13 participants, eight stated they had used antihypertensive medication previously, but only one participant described current use of antihypertensive therapy. All participants were currently using antiretroviral therapy. The data revealed a range of themes including limited hypertension knowledge. Universally, all participants believed that “thinking too much”, i.e. stress, was the major contributor to hypertension and that by “reducing thoughts”, one may control hypertension. Additional emerging themes included a perceived overlap between hypertension and HIV, delays in hypertension diagnosis and linkage to care, challenges with provider communication and counseling, reluctance towards antihypertensive medication, lack of integration of hypertension and HIV care, and additional structural barriers to hypertension care. Conclusions Participants described multiple, intersecting challenges related to hypertension management. Barriers specific to PLHIV included siloed care, HIV-related stigma, and burden from multiple medical conditions. Multifaceted strategies that seek to address structural barriers, hypertension education, psychosocial stressors and stigma, and that are integrated within HIV care are urgently needed to improve cardiovascular outcomes among PLHIV in sub-Saharan Africa.
Collapse
|
31
|
Devi R, Kanitkar K, Narendhar R, Sehmi K, Subramaniam K. A Narrative Review of the Patient Journey Through the Lens of Non-communicable Diseases in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Adv Ther 2020; 37:4808-4830. [PMID: 33052560 PMCID: PMC7553852 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01519-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are challenged with a disproportionately high burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and limited healthcare resources at their disposal to tackle the NCD epidemic. Understanding the patient journey for NCDs from the patients' perspective can help healthcare systems in these settings evolve their NCD care models to address the unmet needs of patients, enhance patient participation in their management, and progress towards better outcomes and quality of life. This paper aims to provide a theoretical framework outlining common touchpoints along the patient journey for NCDs in LMICs. It further aims to review influencing factors and recommend strategies to improve patient experience, satisfaction, and disease outcomes at each touchpoint. The co-occurrence of major NCDs makes it possible to structure the patient journey for NCDs into five broad touchpoints: awareness, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and adherence, with integration of palliative care along the care continuum pathway. The patients' perspective must be considered at each touchpoint in order to inform interventions as they experience first-hand the impact of NCDs on their quality of life and physical function and participate substantially in their disease management. Collaboratively designed health communication programs, shared decision-making, use of appropriate risk assessment tools, therapeutic alliances between the patient and provider for treatment planning, self-management tools, and improved access to palliative care are some strategies to help improve the patient journeys in LMICs. Long-term management of NCDs entails substantial self-management by patients, which can be augmented by pharmacists and nurse-led interventions. The digital healthcare revolution has heralded an increase in patient engagement, support of home monitoring of patients, optimized accurate diagnosis, personalized care plans, and facilitated timely intervention. There is an opportunity to integrate digital technology into each touchpoint of the patient journey, while ensuring minimal interruption to patients' care in the face of global health emergencies.
Collapse
|
32
|
Howland O. Fakes and chemicals: indigenous medicine in contemporary Kenya and implications for health equity. Int J Equity Health 2020; 19:199. [PMID: 33160378 PMCID: PMC7648973 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-020-01313-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to effective biomedical treatments for humans and livestock in Kenya is far from universal. Indigenous healing has a significant role to play in contemporary society in Kenya, yet access is not the only reason for this. Beliefs surrounding the composition of biomedicines, people's experiences of biomedical care, and issues of counterfeit biomedicines sold over the counter have led to patients seeking care outside of biomedical institutions. METHODS This study explores local realities of treatment seeking in one rural and one urban study site, for both humans and their livestock, including when, where and how people access certain types of medicines. Using an ethnographic approach to interviews, focus groups and observations, I explore the role that indigenous healing, both herbal and occasionally spiritual, plays within this context with healers and community members. RESULTS Indigenous healing remains important for many people due to their mistrust and suspicion of biomedicine and big pharma. Their interactions with the healer or doctor, and the equity of these interactions, influence their decisions whether to access herbal or biomedical care, or a combination of the two. Indigenous healing bridges the gap many people experience when they are unable to access biomedical treatments and effectively creates a broader, more equitable coverage for healthcare. The plurality of reasons surrounding decision making is complex, but it is clear that many people often use indigenous healing, improvements in the regulation of both formulas and practice would assist people to access more effective treatment. CONCLUSIONS Indigenous healing is an important way in which Kenyans in rural and urban areas access healthcare for themselves and their animals. Issues of counterfeit biomedicines have led to broad mistrust and people favour indigenous healing, depending on the illness or severity of symptoms. Indigenous healing is a vital way in which people in underserved rural and urban populations access care. Herbal medicines and indigenous healing are trusted due to the greater transparency in their creation, and the more equitable relationship between indigenous doctor and patient. The study demonstrates that a pluralistic system is appropriate to increasing equity in access to healthcare in both urban and rural settings, as well as the importance of biomedical care providers respecting indigenous healing and viewing it with legitimacy. By taking a One Health perspective to understand the intersection of humans, livestock and the environment, we can better understand critical aspects affecting decision making for treatment and implications for healthcare equity in a rapidly changing world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Howland
- PDRA, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
- Visiting Scientist, ILRI, Nairobi, Kenya.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Vasti E, Pletcher MJ. Recruiting Student Health Coaches to Improve Digital Blood Pressure Management: Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. JMIR Form Res 2020; 4:e13637. [PMID: 32840489 PMCID: PMC7479581 DOI: 10.2196/13637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypertension is a significant problem in the United States, affecting 1 in 3 adults aged above 18 years and is associated with a higher risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. The prevalence of hypertension has increased in medically underserved areas (MUAs). Mobile health technologies, such as digital self-monitoring devices, have been shown to improve the management of chronic health conditions. However, patients from MUAs have reduced access to these devices because of limited resources and low health literacy. Health coaches and peer training programs are a potentially cost-effective solution for the shortage of physicians available to manage hypertension in MUAs. Activating young people as student health coaches (SHCs) is a promising strategy to improve community health. Objective This pilot study aims to assess (1) the feasibility of training high school students as health technology coaches in MUAs and (2) whether the addition of SHCs to digital home monitoring improves the frequency of self-monitoring and overall blood pressure (BP) control. Methods In total, 15 high school students completed 3-day health coach training. Patients who had a documented diagnosis of hypertension were randomly assigned to 1 of the 3 intervention arms. The QardioArm alone (Q) group was provided a QardioArm cuff only for convenience. The SHC alone (S) group was instructed to meet with a health coach for 30 min once a week for 5 weeks to create action plans for reducing BP. The student+QardioArm (S+Q) group received both interventions. Results Participants (n=27) were randomly assigned to 3 groups in a ratio of 9:9:9. All 15 students completed training, of which 40% (6/15) of students completed all the 5 meetings with their assigned patient. Barriers to feasibility included transportation and patient response drop-off at the end of the study. Overall, 92% (11/12) of the students rated their experience as very good or higher and 69% (9/13) reported that this experience made them more likely to go into the medical field. There was a statistically significant difference in the frequency of cuff use (S+Q vs Q groups: 37 vs 17; P<.001). Participants in the S+Q group reported better BP control after the intervention compared with the other groups. The average BP at the end of the intervention was 145/84 (SD 9/18) mm Hg, 150/85 (SD 18/12) mm Hg, and 128/69 (SD 20/14) mm Hg in the Q, S, and S+Q groups, respectively. Conclusions This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of pairing technology with young student coaches, although challenges existed. The S+Q group used their cuff more than the Q group. Patients were more engaged in the S+Q group, reporting higher satisfaction with their SHC and better control of their BP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Vasti
- University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Mark J Pletcher
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Patient perspectives on interpersonal aspects of healthcare and patient-centeredness at primary health facilities: A mixed methods study in rural Eastern Uganda. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236524. [PMID: 32730294 PMCID: PMC7392339 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patient-centered care (PCC) is an approach to involve patients in health care delivery, to contribute to quality of care, and to strengthen health systems responsiveness. This article aims to highlight patient perspectives by showcasing their perceptions of their experience of PCC at primary health facilities in two districts in Uganda. METHODS A mixed methods cross-sectional study was conducted in three public and two private primary health care facilities in rural eastern Uganda. In total, 300 patient exit survey questionnaires, 31 semi-structured Interviews (SSIs), 5 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and 5 feedback meetings were conducted. Data analysis was guided by a conceptual framework focusing on (1) understanding patients' health needs, preferences and expectations, (2) describing patients perceptions of their care experience according to five distinct PCC dimensions, and (3) reporting patient reported outcomes and their recommendations on how to improve quality of care. RESULTS Patient expectations were shaped by their access to the facility, costs incurred and perceived quality of care. Patients using public facilities reported doing so because of their proximity (78.3% in public PHCs versus 23.3% in private PHCs) and because of the free services availed. On the other hand, patients attending private facilities did so because of their perception of better quality of care (84.2% in private PHCs versus 21.7% in public PHCs). Patients expectations of quality care were expressed as the availability of medication, shorter waiting times, flexible facility opening hours and courteous health workers. Analysis of the 300 responses from patients interviewed on their perception of the care they received, pointed to higher normalized scores for two out of the five PCC dimensions considered: namely, exploration of the patient's health and illness experience, and the quality of the relationship between patient and health worker (range 62.1-78.4 out of 100). The qualitative analysis indicated that patients felt that communication with health workers was enhanced where there was trust and in case of positive past experiences. Patients however felt uncomfortable discussing psychological or family matters with health workers and found it difficult to make decisions when they did not fully understand the care provided. In terms of outcomes, our findings suggest that patient enablement was more sensitive than patient satisfaction in measuring the effect of interpersonal patient experience on patient reported outcomes. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our findings show that Ugandan patients have some understanding of PCC related concepts and express a demand for it. The results offer a starting point for small scale PCC interventions. However, we need to be cognizant of the challenges PCC implementation faces in resource constrained settings. Patients' expectations in terms of quality health care are still largely driven by biomedical and technical aspects. In addition, patients are largely unaware of their right to participate in the evaluation of health care. To mitigate these challenges, targeted health education focusing on patients' responsibilities and patient's rights are essential. Last but not least, all stakeholders must be involved in developing and validating methods to measure PCC.
Collapse
|
35
|
Computerized Cognitive Rehabilitation Training for Ugandan Seniors Living with HIV: A Validation Study. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9072137. [PMID: 32645896 PMCID: PMC7408686 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9072137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The feasibility, acceptability and preliminary efficacy of computerized cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CCRT) for mitigating neurocognitive decline was evaluated in African adults ≥50 years old. Eighty-one Ugandans with (n = 40) and without (n = 41) chronic human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) were allocated CCRT—i.e., 20–45-min cognitive training sessions with culturally adapted video games delivered via Captain’s Log Software, or standard of care (SOC). Pre and post (i.e., 8-weeks later) intervention performance based neurocognitive tests, quality of life (QOL) and frailty related phenotype (FRP) were determined in all respondents. Multivariable linear regression estimated CCRT- vs. SOC-related differences (β) in neurocognitive batteries, QOL and FRP. Effect sizes (ES) for estimated β were calculated. CCRT protocol was completed by 92.8% of persons allocated to it. Regardless of HIV status, CCRT was associated with higher performance in learning tests than SOC—interference list (β = 1.00, 95%CI: (0.02, 1.98); ES = 0.43) and delayed recall (β = 1.04, 95%CI: (0.06, 2.02); ES = 0.47). CCRT effect on verbal fluency was clinically important (ES = 0.38), but statistical significance was not reached (β = 1.25, 95%CI: (−0.09, 2.58)). Among HIV-positive adults, clinically important post-CCRT improvements were noted for immediate recall (ES = 0.69), working memory (ES = 0.51), verbal fluency (ES = 0.51), and timed gait (ES = −0.44) tasks. Among HIV-negative adults, CCRT resulted in moderate post-intervention improvement in learning tests (ES = 0.45) and large decline in FRP (ES = −0.71), without a positive effect on simple attention and visuomotor coordination tasks. CCRT intervention is feasible among older Ugandan adults with potential benefit for learning and verbal fluency tests regardless of HIV status and lowering FRP in HIV-negative older adults.
Collapse
|
36
|
Godman B, Basu D, Pillay Y, Mwita JC, Rwegerera GM, Anand Paramadhas BD, Tiroyakgosi C, Okwen PM, Niba LL, Nonvignon J, Sefah I, Oluka M, Guantai AN, Kibuule D, Kalemeera F, Mubita M, Fadare J, Ogunleye OO, Distiller LA, Rampamba EM, Wing J, Mueller D, Alfadl A, Amu AA, Matsebula Z, Kalungia A, Zaranyika T, Masuka N, Wale J, Hill R, Kurdi A, Timoney A, Campbell S, Meyer JC. Review of Ongoing Activities and Challenges to Improve the Care of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Across Africa and the Implications for the Future. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:108. [PMID: 32265688 PMCID: PMC7098994 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There has been an appreciable increase in the number of people in Africa with metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in recent years as a result of a number of factors. Factors include lifestyle changes, urbanisation, and the growing consumption of processed foods coupled with increasing levels of obesity. Currently there are 19 million adults in Africa with diabetes, mainly T2DM (95%), estimated to grow to 47 million people by 2045 unless controlled. This has a considerable impact on morbidity, mortality and costs in the region. There are a number of issues to address to reduce the impact of T2DM including improving detection rates and current access to services alongside addressing issues of adherence to prescribed medicines. There are also high rates of co-morbidities with infectious diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis in patients in Africa with T2DM that require attention. Objective Document ongoing activities across Africa to improve the care of patients with T2DM especially around issues of identification, access, and adherence to changing lifestyles and prescribed medicines. In addition, discussing potential ways forward to improve the care of patients with T2DM based on ongoing activities and experiences including addressing key issues associated with co-morbidities with infectious diseases. Our Approach Contextualise the findings from a wide range of publications including internet based publications of national approaches coupled with input from senior level government, academic and other professionals from across Africa to provide future guidance. Ongoing Activities A number of African countries are actively instigating programmes to improve the care of patients with T2DM starting with improved diagnosis. This recognises the growing burden of non-communicable diseases across Africa, which has been neglected in the past. Planned activities include programmes to improve detection rates and address key issues with diet and lifestyle changes, alongside improving monitoring of care and activities to enhance adherence to prescribed medicines. In addition, addressing potential complexities involving diabetes patients with infectious disease co-morbidities. It is too early to fully assess the impact of such activities. Conclusion There are a number of ongoing activities across Africa to improve the management of patients with diabetes including co-morbidities. However, more needs to be done considering the high and growing burden of T2DM in Africa. Ongoing research will help further benefit resource allocation and subsequent care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom.,Division of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa.,Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.,Health Economics Centre, University of Liverpool Management School, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Debashis Basu
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yogan Pillay
- HIV & AIDS, TB and Maternal, Child and Women's Health, National Department of Health, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Julius C Mwita
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Godfrey Mutashambara Rwegerera
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.,Department of Medicine, Princess Marina Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Celda Tiroyakgosi
- Botswana Essential Drugs Action Program, Ministry of Health and Wellness, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Patrick Mbah Okwen
- Effective Basic Services (eBASE) Africa, Bamenda, Cameroon.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Loveline Lum Niba
- Effective Basic Services (eBASE) Africa, Bamenda, Cameroon.,Department of Public Health, University of Bamenda, Bambili, Cameroon
| | | | - Israel Sefah
- Department of Pharmacy, Keta Municipal Hospital, Ghana Health Service, Keta, Ghana
| | - Margaret Oluka
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anastasia N Guantai
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Dan Kibuule
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Francis Kalemeera
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Mwangana Mubita
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Joseph Fadare
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.,Department of Medicine, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Olayinka O Ogunleye
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Lagos, Nigeria.,Department of Medicine, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Larry A Distiller
- Centre for Diabetes & Endocrinology (Pty) Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Enos M Rampamba
- Division of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Pharmacy, Tshilidzini Regional Hospital, Limpopo Department Of Health, Shayandima, South Africa
| | - Jeffrey Wing
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Debjani Mueller
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Charlotte Maxeke Medical Research Cluster, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Abubakr Alfadl
- National Medicines Board, Federal Ministry of Health, Khartoum, Sudan.,Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Unaizah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Aubrey Kalungia
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Trust Zaranyika
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nyasha Masuka
- Independent Health Systems Consultant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Janney Wale
- Independent Consumer Advocate, Brunswick, VIC, Australia
| | - Ruaraidh Hill
- Liverpool Reviews and Implementation Group, Liverpool University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Amanj Kurdi
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom.,Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Angela Timoney
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom.,NHS Lothian Director of Pharmacy, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Campbell
- Centre for Primary Care, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Johanna C Meyer
- Division of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Assessing Providers' Approach to Hypertension Management at a Large, Private Hospital in Kampala, Uganda. Ann Glob Health 2020; 86:5. [PMID: 31976304 PMCID: PMC6966335 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.2513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Hypertension is increasingly prevalent in Uganda and its clinical management remains suboptimal across the country. Prior research has elucidated some of the factors contributing to poor control, but little is known about providers’ approaches to hypertension management and perceptions of barriers to care. This is particularly true in private health care settings – despite the fact that the private sector provides a substantial and growing portion of health care in Uganda. Objective: Our exploratory, pragmatic qualitative study aimed to examine the factors affecting the quality of hypertension care from the perspective of providers working in an urban, private hospital in Uganda. We focused on the organizational and system-level factors influencing providers’ approaches to management in the outpatient setting. Methods: We conducted interviews with 19 health care providers working in the outpatient setting of a 110-bed, private urban hospital in Kampala, Uganda. We then coded the interviews for thematic analysis, using an inductive approach to generate the study’s findings. Findings: Several themes emerged around perceived barriers and facilitators to care. Providers cited patient beliefs and behaviors, driven in part by cultural norms, as a key challenge to hypertension control; however, most felt their own approach to hypertension treatment aligned with international guidelines. Providers struggled to collaborate with colleagues in coordinating the joint management of patients. Furthermore, they cited the high cost and limited availability of medication as barriers. Conclusions: These findings offer important strategic direction for intervention development specific to this Ugandan context: for example, regarding culturally-adapted patient education initiatives, or programs to improve access to essential medications. Other settings facing similar challenges scaling up management of hypertension may find the results useful for informing intervention development as well.
Collapse
|
38
|
Witter S, Zou G, Diaconu K, Senesi RGB, Idriss A, Walley J, Wurie HR. Opportunities and challenges for delivering non-communicable disease management and services in fragile and post-conflict settings: perceptions of policy-makers and health providers in Sierra Leone. Confl Health 2020; 14:3. [PMID: 31921333 PMCID: PMC6945746 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-019-0248-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The growing burden of non-communicable diseases in low- and middle-income countries presents substantive challenges for health systems. This is also the case in fragile, post-conflict and post-Ebola Sierra Leone, where NCDs represent an increasingly significant disease burden (around 30% of adult men and women have raised blood pressure). To date, documentation of health system challenges and opportunities for NCD prevention and control is limited in such settings. This paper aims to identify opportunities and challenges in provision of NCD prevention and care and highlight lessons for Sierra Leone and other fragile states in the battle against the growing NCD epidemic. METHODS This paper focuses on the case of Sierra Leone and uses a combination of participatory group model building at national and district level, in rural and urban districts, interviews with 28 key informants and review of secondary data and documents. Data is analysed using the WHO's health system assessment guide for NCDs. RESULTS We highlight multiple challenges typical to those encountered in other fragile settings to the delivery of preventive and curative NCD services. There is limited government and donor commitment to financing and implementation of the national NCD policy and strategy, limited and poorly distributed health workforce and pharmaceuticals, high financial barriers for users, and lack of access to quality-assured medicines with consequent high recourse to private and informal care seeking. We identify how to strengthen the system within existing (low) resources, including through improved clinical guides and tools, more effective engagement with communities, and regulatory and fiscal measures. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that NCD prevention and control is of low but increasing priority in Sierra Leone; challenges to addressing this burden relate to huge numbers with NCDs (especially hypertension) requiring care, overall resource constraints and wider systemic issues, including poorly supported primary care services and access barriers. In addition to securing and strengthening political will and commitment and directing more resources and attention towards this area, there is a need for in-depth exploratory and implementation research to shape and test NCD interventions in fragile and post-conflict settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Witter
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Guanyang Zou
- School of Economics and Management, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Karin Diaconu
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Reynold G. B. Senesi
- Directorate of Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health, Ministry of Health and Sanitation of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Ayesha Idriss
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - John Walley
- Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Haja Ramatulai Wurie
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Bekele H, Asefa A, Getachew B, Belete AM. Barriers and Strategies to Lifestyle and Dietary Pattern Interventions for Prevention and Management of TYPE-2 Diabetes in Africa, Systematic Review. J Diabetes Res 2020; 2020:7948712. [PMID: 32766315 PMCID: PMC7374199 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7948712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes mellitus is a major chronic illness in Africa that requires lifelong lifestyle interventions and pharmacological therapy. Lifestyle change is the most important aspect of diabetes care and includes diabetes self-management education and support, medical nutrition therapy, physical activity, smoking cessation counseling, and psychosocial care. PURPOSE The purpose of this project was to review published articles that investigate lifestyle and dietary pattern interventions for diabetes prevention and management in Africa. Barriers to lifestyle interventions and strategies to overcome the barriers are also reviewed in this study. METHODS The article search was conducted in an electronic database search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library. Studies were included if they were published between 2011 and 2019, if they were conducted in an African country, and were written in the English language. RESULTS Articles reviewed included several that examined the basic lifestyle and dietary pattern changes for all patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, on self-care behavior of type 2 diabetes patients, on the cost of diabetes in Africa, and on barriers for adherence to lifestyle and dietary changes in Africa, with strategies to address those barriers. CONCLUSION Lifestyle interventions including regular physical exercise, weight management, and adherence to health care professionals' recommendations on a healthy diet are the cornerstone in the prevention and management of diabetes in Africa. The main barriers to adherence were both systemic (population changes, poor access, western cultural influences, and low-quality healthcare) and personal (poverty and cost, educational status, and perceptions about the disease) in nature. The strategies for the barriers include health education programs, advocacy, and capacity building.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hirut Bekele
- Department of Nursing, Institute of Health Sciences, Bethel University, USA
- Department of Pre-clinical, Institute of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debreberhan University, Ethiopia
| | - Adisu Asefa
- Department of Nursing, Institute of Health Sciences, Bethel University, USA
- Department of Pre-clinical, Institute of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debreberhan University, Ethiopia
| | - Bekalu Getachew
- Department of Pre-clinical, Institute of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debreberhan University, Ethiopia
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, Jimma University, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Muche Belete
- Department of Pre-clinical, Institute of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debreberhan University, Ethiopia
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, Jimma University, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|