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Soto-Méndez MJ, Boy E. Introduction and Executive Summary for the Supplement Micronutrients in Latin America: Current State and Research. Food Nutr Bull 2024:3795721241254610. [PMID: 38888443 DOI: 10.1177/03795721241254610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Erick Boy
- HarvestPlus Program, Innovation, Policy and Scaling Unit, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
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Odu J, Osi K, Nguyen L, Goldstein A, Appel LJ, Matsushita K, Ojji D, Orji IA, Alex-Okoh M, Odoh D, Toma MM, Elemuwa CO, Lamorde S, Baraya H, Dewan MT, Chijioke O, Moran AE, Agogo E, Thomas MP. On-demand mobile hypertension training for primary health care workers in Nigeria: a pilot study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:444. [PMID: 38594665 PMCID: PMC11005121 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10693-x] [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: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only one out of every ten Nigerian adults with hypertension has their blood pressure controlled. Health worker training is essential to improve hypertension diagnosis and treatment. In-person training has limitations that mobile, on-demand training might address. This pilot study evaluated a self-paced, case-based, mobile-optimized online training to diagnose and manage hypertension for Nigerian health workers. METHODS Twelve hypertension training modules were developed, based on World Health Organization and Nigerian guidelines. After review by local academic and government partners, the course was piloted by Nigerian health workers at government-owned primary health centers. Primary care physician, nurse, and community health worker participants completed the course on their own smartphones. Before and after the course, hypertension knowledge was evaluated with multiple-choice questions. Learners provided feedback by responding to questions on a Likert scale. RESULTS Out of 748 users who sampled the course, 574 enrolled, of whom 431 (75%) completed the course. The average pre-test score of completers was 65.4%, which increased to 78.2% on the post-test (P < 0.001, paired t-test). Health workers who were not part of existing hypertension control programs had lower pre-test scores and larger score gains. Most participants (96.1%) agreed that the training was applicable to their work, and nearly all (99.8%) agreed that they enjoyed the training. CONCLUSIONS An on-demand mobile digital hypertension training increases knowledge of hypertension management among Nigerian health workers. If offered at scale, such courses can be a tool to build health workforce capacity through initial and refresher training on current clinical guidelines in hypertension and other chronic diseases in Nigeria as well as other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kufor Osi
- Resolve To Save Lives, New York, USA
| | - Leander Nguyen
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| | | | - Lawrence J Appel
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kunihiro Matsushita
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Dike Ojji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Ikechukwu A Orji
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hasana Baraya
- National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Andrew E Moran
- Resolve To Save Lives, New York, USA
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
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Marshall K, Beaden P, Durrani H, Tang K, Mogilevskii R, Bhutta Z. The role of the private sector in noncommunicable disease prevention and management in low- and middle-income countries: a series of systematic reviews and thematic syntheses. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2023; 18:2156099. [PMID: 36591948 PMCID: PMC9815432 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2022.2156099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Conduct six systematic reviews investigating for-profit private sector roles in NCD prevention and management in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) through our a priori framework's pillars. METHODS Six systematic reviews and thematic syntheses were performed between March-August 2021, Six databases, websites of relevant organizations, and references lists of included studies were comprehensively searched. Studies published in English from 2000 onwards involving the pillar of interest, for-profit private sector, NCD prevention/management, and LMIC context were included. Results were synthesized using an inductive thematic synthesis approach. RESULTS Ultimately, 25 articles were included in the PPP review, 33 in Governance and Policy, 22 in Healthcare Provision, 15 in Innovation, 14 in Knowledge Educator, and 42 in Investment and Finance. The following themes emerged: PPPs (coordination; financial resources; provision; health promotion; capacity building; innovation; policy); Governance/Policy (lobbying; industry perception; regulation); Healthcare Provision (diagnosis/treatment; infrastructure; availability/accessibility/affordability); Innovation (product innovation; process innovation; marketing innovation; research; innovation dissemination); Knowledge Educator (training; health promotion; industry framework/guideline formation); Investment and Finance (treatment cost; regulation; private insurance; subsidization; direct investment; collaborative financing; innovative financing; research). CONCLUSION These findings will be instrumental for LMICs considering private sector engagement. Potential conflicts of interest must be considered when implementing private sector involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Marshall
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,CONTACT Keiko Marshall University of Toronto
| | - Philippa Beaden
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hammad Durrani
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kun Tang
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Roman Mogilevskii
- Institute of Public Policy and Administration, University of Central Asia, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Zulfiqar Bhutta
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada,Centre for Excellence in Women and Child Health and Institute of Global Health and Development, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan,Zulfiqar Bhutta Zulfiqar BhuttaCentre for Global Child Health Hospital, Sick Children 686 Bay Street, 11th Floor, Suite 11.9805 Toronto, ON M5G 0A4 Canada ext. 328532 Aga Khan University
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Alani AH, Miller L, Darji B, Waweru I, Atwiine AB, Tonelli M, Mogga JLK, Adams A, Ndinda L, Jongo S, Kiapi L. Assessment of the WHO non-communicable diseases kit for humanitarian emergencies in South Sudan: a retrospective, prospective, observational study. Confl Health 2023; 17:27. [PMID: 37277827 PMCID: PMC10241119 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00525-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The WHO Non-Communicable Diseases Kit (NCDK) was developed to support care for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in humanitarian settings. Targeting primary healthcare, each kit contains medicines and supplies that are forecasted to meet the needs of 10,000 people for 3 months. This study aimed to evaluate the NCDK deployment process, contents, usage and limitations, and to explore its acceptability and effectiveness among healthcare workers (HCWs) in South Sudan. METHODS This mixed-method observational study captured data from pre-and-post NCDK deployment. Six data collection tools included: (i) contextual analysis, (ii) semi-structured interviews, in addition to surveys measuring/assessing (iii) healthcare workers' knowledge about NCDs, and healthcare workers' perceptions of: (iv) health facility infrastructure, (v) pharmaceutical supply chain, and (vi) NCDK content. The pre- and post-deployment evaluations were conducted in four facilities (October-2019) and three facilities (April-2021), respectively. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data and content analysis for open-ended questions. A thematic analysis was applied on interviews findings and further categorized into four predetermined themes. RESULTS Compared to baseline, two of the re-assessed facilities had improved service availability for NCDs. Respondents described NCDs as a growing problem that is not addressed at a national level. After deployment, the same struggles were intensified with the COVID-19 pandemic. The delivery process was slow and faced delays associated with several barriers. After deployment, poor communications and the "push system" of inventories were commonly perceived by stakeholders, leading to expiry/disposal of some contents. Despite being out-of-stock at baseline, at least 55% of medicines were found to be unused post-deployment and the knowledge surveys demonstrated a need for improving HCWs knowledge of NCDs. CONCLUSIONS This assessment further confirmed the NCDK role in maintaining continuity of care on a short-term period. However, its effectiveness was dependent on the health system supply chain in place and the capacity of facilities to manage and treat NCDs. Availability of medicines from alternative sources made some of the NCDK medicines redundant or unnecessary for some health facilities. Several learnings were identified in this assessment, highlighting barriers that contributed to the kit underutilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Hecham Alani
- International Rescue Committee, London, UK
- Independent Researcher, London, UK
| | - Laura Miller
- International Rescue Committee, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Bhavika Darji
- International Rescue Committee, New York City, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Marcello Tonelli
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Ali Adams
- International Rescue Committee, Juba, South Sudan
| | | | - Said Jongo
- International Rescue Committee, Juba, South Sudan
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Xi JY, Zhang WJ, Chen Z, Zhang YT, Chen LC, Zhang YQ, Lin X, Hao YT. Potential Gains in Health-Adjusted Life Expectancy by Reducing Burden of Noncommunicable Diseases in 188 Countries: A Population-Based Study. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2023; 26:802-809. [PMID: 36549356 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This article quantifies the potential gains in health-adjusted life expectancy for people aged 30 to 70 years (HALE[30-70]) by examining the reductions in disability in addition to premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). METHODS We extracted data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 for 4 major NCDs (cancers, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes mellitus) in 188 countries from 2010 to 2019. Estimates of the potential gains in HALE[30-70] were based on a counterfactual analysis involving 3 alternative future scenarios: (1) achieve Sustainable Development Goals target 3.4 but do not make any progress on disability reduction, (2) achieve Sustainable Development Goals target 3.4 and eliminate NCD-related disability, and (3) eliminate all NCD-related mortality and disability. RESULTS In all scenarios, the high-income group has the greatest potential gains in HALE[30-70], above the global average. For all specific causes, potential gains in HALE[30-70] decrease as income levels fall. Across these 3 scenarios, the potential gains in HALE[30-70] globally of reducing premature mortality for 4 major NCDs are 3.13 years, 4.53 years, and 7.32 years, respectively. In scenario A, all income groups have the greatest potential gains in HALE[30-70] from diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. In scenarios B and C, the high-income group has the greatest potential gains in HALE[30-70] from cancer intervention, and the other income groups have the greatest potential gains in HALE[30-70] from cardiovascular diseases intervention. CONCLUSION Reducing premature death and disability from 4 major NCDs at once and attaching equal importance to each lead to a sizable improvement in HALE[30-70].
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Yan Xi
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wang-Jian Zhang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA; School of Economics, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China
| | - Yan-Ting Zhang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Chang Chen
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Qin Zhang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Lin
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuan-Tao Hao
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Peking University Center for Public Health and Epidemic Preparedness & Response, Peking University, Beijing, China; Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Center for Health Information Research, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Rossouw L, Filby S. Inequalities in successful tobacco cessation and tobacco cessation attempts: Evidence from eight Sub-Saharan African countries. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277702. [PMID: 36413527 PMCID: PMC9681111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tobacco consumption is a contributing and modifiable risk factor for non-communicable diseases. In high-income countries, tobacco cessation attempts, and their success, are concentrated among the socio-economically advantaged, resulting in a skewed burden of disease. However, there is a paucity of evidence on the distribution of tobacco cessation in low- and middle-income countries. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to measure and decompose wealth- and education-related inequalities in tobacco cessation in eight Sub-Saharan African countries. METHODOLOGY The study applies Erreygers' corrected concentration indices and decomposition methods to the most recent Global Adult Tobacco Surveys in Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda. FINDINGS We find that across countries, successful tobacco cessation, as well as tobacco cessation attempts, are concentrated among wealthier and better-educated individuals. Differences in socio-economic status, urban or rural residence, and not knowing or believing that tobacco consumption leads to serious illness contributes to these inequalities. CONCLUSION Governments in our sample of countries can do more to support socio-economically disadvantaged smokers in their efforts to quit smoking, including by making an effort to align each country's smoking cessation strategy with the guidelines outlined in the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rossouw
- School of Economics and Finance, Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Samantha Filby
- Samantha Filby, Research on the Economics of Excisable Products, School of Economics, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
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Patay D, Trieu K, McKenzie B, Ramanathan S, Hure A, Bell C, Thow AM, Allender S, Reeve E, Palu A, Woodward M, Waqa G, Webster J. Research protocol for impact assessment of a project to scale up food policies in the Pacific. Health Res Policy Syst 2022; 20:117. [PMID: 36309749 PMCID: PMC9617745 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-022-00927-x] [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: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background One of the challenges for countries implementing food policy measures has been the difficulty in demonstrating impact and retaining stakeholder support. Consequently, research funded to help countries overcome these challenges should assess impact and translation into practice, particularly in low-resource settings. However, there are still few attempts to prospectively, and comprehensively, assess research impact. This protocol describes a study co-created with project implementers, collaborative investigators and key stakeholders to optimize and monitor the impact of a research project on scaling up food policies in Fiji. Methods To develop this protocol, our team of researchers prospectively applied the Framework to Assess the Impact from Translational health research (FAIT). Activities included (i) developing a logic model to map the pathway to impact and establish domains of benefit; (ii) identifying process and impact indicators for each of these domains; (iii) identifying relevant data for impact indicators and a cost–consequence analysis; and (iv) establishing a process for collecting quantitative and qualitative data to measure progress. Impact assessment data will be collected between September 2022 and December 2024, through reports, routine monitoring activities, group discussions and semi-structured interviews with key implementers and stakeholders. The prospective application of the protocol, and interim and final research impact assessments of each project stream and the project as a whole, will optimize and enable robust measurement of research impact. Discussion By applying this protocol, we aim to increase understanding of pathways to impact and processes that need to be put in place to achieve this. This impact evaluation will inform future projects with a similar scope and will identify transferable and/or translatable lessons for other Pacific Island states and low- and middle-income countries. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12961-022-00927-x.
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Ross S, Chadha K, Mishra S, Lewington S, Shepperd S, Gathani T. The burden of risk factors for non-communicable disease in rural Bihar, India: a comparative study with national health surveys. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1538. [PMID: 35962330 PMCID: PMC9375264 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13818-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is increasing in rural India. The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) provides estimates of the burden of NCDs and their risk factors in women aged 15-49 and men aged 15-54 years. The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of hypertension and body-mass index (BMI) in adults aged 35-70 years in rural India and to compare these estimates, where age ranges overlap, to routinely available data. METHODS The Non-Communicable Disease in Rural India (NCDRI) Study was a cross-sectional household survey of 1005 women and 1025 men aged 35-70 conducted in Bihar in July 2019. Information was collected on personal characteristics, self-reported medical history and physical measurements (blood pressure, height and weight). Prevalence estimates for hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg, or diagnosed and treated for hypertension), and for underweight (body-mass index < 18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (18.5-25.0 kg/m2) and overweight (≥ 25.0 kg/m2) were calculated. Where age ranges overlapped, estimates from the NCDRI Study were compared to the NFHS-5 Survey. RESULTS In the NCDRI Study, the estimated prevalence of hypertension was 27.3% (N = 274) in women and 27.6% (N = 283) in men aged 35-70, which was three-times higher in women and over two-times higher in men than in the NFHS-5 Survey. One-quarter (23.5%; N = 236) of women and one-fifth (20.2%; N = 207) of men in the NCDRI Study were overweight, which was approximately 1.5 times higher than in the NFHS-5 Survey. However, where age groups overlapped, similar age-standardized estimates were obtained for hypertension and weight in both the NCDRI Study and the NFHS-5 Survey. CONCLUSION The prevalence of NCDs in rural India is higher than previously reported due to the older demographic in our survey. Future routine national health surveys must widen the age range of participants to reflect the changing disease profile of rural India, and inform the planning of health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Ross
- grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Nuffield Department of Population Health (NDPH), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Sarah Lewington
- grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Nuffield Department of Population Health (NDPH), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sasha Shepperd
- grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Nuffield Department of Population Health (NDPH), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Toral Gathani
- Nuffield Department of Population Health (NDPH), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. .,Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.
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Favas C, Ansbro É, Eweka E, Agarwal G, Lazo Porras M, Tsiligianni I, Vedanthan R, Webster R, Perel P, Murphy A. Factors Influencing the Implementation of Remote Delivery Strategies for Non-Communicable Disease Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Narrative Review. Public Health Rev 2022; 43:1604583. [PMID: 35832336 PMCID: PMC9272771 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2022.1604583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted health care for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and necessitated strategies to minimize contact with facilities. We aimed to examine factors influencing implementation of remote (non-facility-based) delivery approaches for people with hypertension and/or diabetes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), to inform NCD care delivery during health service disruption, including humanitarian crises. Methods: Our narrative review used a hermeneutic and purposive approach, including primary studies conducted in LMICs, which assessed implementation factors influencing remote NCD care delivery. Results were analyzed using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Results: Twenty-eight included studies revealed the strong influence of both internal organizational and broader contextual factors, such as community health worker policies or technological environment. Addressing patients’ specific characteristics, needs and resources was important for implementation success. Conclusion: This review highlighted the multiple, complex, interdependent factors influencing implementation of remote NCD care in LMICs. Our findings may inform actors designing NCD care delivery in contexts where facility-based access is challenging. Implementation research is needed to evaluate context-adapted e-Health, community-based, and simplified clinical management strategies to facilitate remote NCD care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Favas
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Éimhín Ansbro
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Evette Eweka
- Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Gina Agarwal
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Maria Lazo Porras
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals & University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,CRONICAS Centre of Excellence in Chronic Diseases, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Ioanna Tsiligianni
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Rethymno, Greece
| | - Rajesh Vedanthan
- Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ruth Webster
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Newtown, NSW, Australia
| | - Pablo Perel
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Adrianna Murphy
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Implementing effective salt reduction programs and policies in low- and middle-income countries: learning from retrospective policy analysis in Argentina, Mongolia, South Africa and Vietnam. Public Health Nutr 2022; 25:805-816. [PMID: 34384514 PMCID: PMC9991649 DOI: 10.1017/s136898002100344x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the factors influencing the implementation of salt reduction interventions in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). DESIGN Retrospective policy analysis based on desk reviews of existing reports and semi-structured stakeholder interviews in four countries, using Walt and Gilson's 'Health Policy Triangle' to assess the role of context, content, process and actors on the implementation of salt policy. SETTING Argentina, Mongolia, South Africa and Vietnam. PARTICIPANTS Representatives from government, non-government, health, research and food industry organisations with the potential to influence salt reduction programmes. RESULTS Global targets and regional consultations were viewed as important drivers of salt reduction interventions in Mongolia and Vietnam in contrast to local research and advocacy, and support from international experts, in Argentina and South Africa. All countries had population-level targets and written strategies with multiple interventions to reduce salt consumption. Engaging industry to reduce salt in foods was a priority in all countries: Mongolia and Vietnam were establishing voluntary programs, while Argentina and South Africa opted for legislation on salt levels in foods. Ministries of Health, the WHO and researchers were identified as critical players in all countries. Lack of funding and technical capacity/support, absence of reliable local data and changes in leadership were identified as barriers to effective implementation. No country had a comprehensive approach to surveillance or regulation for labelling, and mixed views were expressed about the potential benefits of low sodium salts. CONCLUSIONS Effective scale-up of salt reduction programs in LMIC requires: (1) reliable local data about the main sources of salt; (2) collaborative multi-sectoral implementation; (3) stronger government leadership and regulatory processes and (4) adequate resources for implementation and monitoring.
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Devi R, Goodyear-Smith F, Subramaniam K, McCormack J, Calder A, Parag V, Bizri LE, Majumdar A, Huang PH, Bullen C. The Impact of COVID-19 on the Care of Patients With Noncommunicable Diseases in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: An Online Survey of Patient Perspectives. J Patient Exp 2021; 8:23743735211034091. [PMID: 34368433 PMCID: PMC8317232 DOI: 10.1177/23743735211034091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We sought to gain insights into the impacts of COVID-19 and associated control measures on health and health care of patients from low- and middle-income countries with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health conditions, using an online survey during the COVID-19 pandemic. The most common concern for the 1487 patients who took part was contracting COVID-19 when they accessed health care. Of those infected with COVID-19, half said that their health had been worse since being infected. Collectively, most people reported an increase in feelings of stress and loneliness. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a range of health care impacts on patients with noncommunicable diseases, including constraints on access to care and health effects, particularly mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratna Devi
- International Alliance of Patient Organizations, IAPO, London, United Kingdom
| | - Felicity Goodyear-Smith
- General Practice and Primary Healthcare, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Jessica McCormack
- National Institute for Health Innovation, University of Auckland, Auckland New Zealand
| | - Amanda Calder
- National Institute for Health Innovation, University of Auckland, Auckland New Zealand
| | - Varsha Parag
- National Institute for Health Innovation, University of Auckland, Auckland New Zealand
| | - Luna El Bizri
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon
| | | | | | - Chris Bullen
- National Institute for Health Innovation, University of Auckland, Auckland New Zealand
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Rossouw L. Socioeconomic status and tobacco consumption: Analyzing inequalities in China, Ghana, India, Mexico, the Russian Federation and South Africa. Tob Prev Cessat 2021; 7:47. [PMID: 34222728 PMCID: PMC8231441 DOI: 10.18332/tpc/137085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally, there has been a rapid rise in non-communicable diseases driven by changing lifestyle choices and health behaviors. Different lifestyle choices threaten to exacerbate existing health inequalities, yet evidence monitoring the extent of this impact in emerging economies is lacking. The article sets out to measure the level of wealth-related inequality and its drivers in one of these lifestyle choices, tobacco consumption, among populations aged ≥50 years in six Low- and Middle-Income Countries. METHODS The study provides empirical evidence of the inequality in tobacco consumption across wealth groups in China, Ghana, India, Mexico, the Russian Federation and South Africa using the Erreygers’ corrected concentration indices. These inequalities are then decomposed to gain a deeper understanding of the factors and broader social forces driving inequality. The WHO SAGE data set, collected between 2008 and 2010, is used for the analysis. RESULTS Current tobacco consumption is concentrated among the poor in China, Ghana, India, and South Africa, and among the wealthy in the Russian Federation and Mexico. The inequalities widen when we focus solely on the male population. Although the results differ by country, the major drivers of inequality include wealth, locality, and gender. CONCLUSIONS The focus on tobacco consumption in this age group is key to curbing rising healthcare costs and ensuring longevity. Policies aimed at reducing wealth-related inequalities should especially target high tobacco consumption rates among males, while simultaneously pre-empting and curbing rising rates among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rossouw
- School of Economics and Finance, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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The impact of COVID-19 on the care of people living with noncommunicable diseases in low- and middle-income countries: an online survey of physicians and pharmacists in nine countries. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2021; 22:e30. [PMID: 34120672 PMCID: PMC8220477 DOI: 10.1017/s146342362100030x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted healthcare worldwide. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where people may have limited access to affordable quality care, the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to have a particularly adverse impact on the health and healthcare of individuals with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). A World Health Organization survey found that disruption of delivery of healthcare for NCDs was more significant in LMICs than in high-income countries. However, the study did not elicit insights into the day-to-day impacts of COVID-19 on healthcare by front-line healthcare workers (FLHCWs). AIM To gain insights directly from FLHCWs working in countries with a high NCD burden, and thereby identify opportunities to improve the provision of healthcare during the current pandemic and in future healthcare emergencies. METHODS We recruited selected frontline healthcare workers (general practitioners, pharmacists, and other medical specialists) from nine countries to complete an online survey (n = 1347). Survey questions focused on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on clinical practice and NCDs; barriers to clinical care during the pandemic; and innovative responses to the many challenges presented by the pandemic. FINDINGS The majority of FLHCWs responding to our survey reported that their care of patients had been impacted both adversely and positively by the public health measures imposed. Most FLHCs (95%) reported a deterioration in the mental health of their patients. CONCLUSIONS Continuity of care for NCDs as part of pandemic preparedness is needed so that chronic conditions are not exacerbated by public health measures and the direct impacts of the pandemic.
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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.
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