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Musiimenta A, Tumuhimbise W, Atukunda E, Mugaba A, Linnemayr S, Haberer J. Digital Adherence Technologies Linked to Mobile Money Incentives for Medication Adherence Among People Living With Tuberculosis: Mixed Methods Feasibility and Acceptability Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2024; 11:e47996. [PMID: 38819905 PMCID: PMC11179015 DOI: 10.2196/47996] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complementing digital adherence technologies (DATs) with mobile money incentives may improve their utility in supporting tuberculosis medication adherence, yet the feasibility and acceptability of this integrated approach remain unclear. OBJECTIVE This study aims to describe the feasibility and acceptability of a novel DAT intervention called My Mobile Wallet composed of real-time adherence monitoring, SMS text message reminders, and mobile money incentives for tuberculosis medication adherence in a low-income setting. METHODS We purposively recruited people living with tuberculosis from the Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital in Mbarara, Uganda, who (1) were starting tuberculosis treatment at enrollment or within the past 4 weeks, (2) owned a mobile phone, (3) were able to use SMS test messaging, (4) were aged ≥18 years, and (5) were living in Mbarara district. At study exit (month 6), we used interviews and questionnaires informed by the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) to collect feasibility and acceptability data, reflecting patients' experiences of using each component of My Mobile Wallet. Feasibility also included tracking the functionality of the adherence monitor (ie, an electronic pillbox) as well as SMS text message and mobile money delivery. We used a content analytical approach to inductively analyze qualitative data and Stata (version 13; StataCorp LLC) to analyze quantitative data. RESULTS All 39 participants reported that the intervention was feasible because it was easy for them to use (eg, access and read SMS text messages) and worked as expected. Almost all SMS text messages (6880/7064, 97.4%) were sent as planned. The transmission of adherence data from the monitor worked well, with 98.37% (5682/5776) of the data transmitted as planned. All participants additionally reported that the intervention was acceptable because it helped them take their tuberculosis medication as prescribed; the mobile money incentives relieved them of tuberculosis-related financial burdens; SMS text message reminders and electronic pillbox-based alarms reminded them to take their medication on time; and participants perceived real-time adherence monitoring as "being watched" while taking their medication, which encouraged them to take their medication on time to demonstrate their commitment. The intervention was perceived as a sign of care, which eventually created emotional support and a sense of connectedness to health care. Participants preferred daily SMS text message reminders (32/39, 82%) to reminders linked to missed doses (7/39, 18%), citing the fact that tuberculosis medication is taken daily. CONCLUSIONS The use of real-time adherence monitoring linked to SMS text message reminders and mobile money incentives for tuberculosis medication adherence was feasible and acceptable in a low-resource setting where poverty-based structural barriers heavily constrain tuberculosis treatment and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angella Musiimenta
- Faculty of Computing and Informatics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Angels Compassion Research and Development Initiative, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Wilson Tumuhimbise
- Faculty of Computing and Informatics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Angels Compassion Research and Development Initiative, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Esther Atukunda
- Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Aaron Mugaba
- Faculty of Computing and Informatics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Angels Compassion Research and Development Initiative, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Jessica Haberer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Global Health, Boston, MA, United States
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Yu S, Moon D, Jeong D, Kang YA, Lee GI, Choi H. Beyond reducing direct medical cost: examining health outcomes in tuberculosis through a difference-in-differences analysis of South Korea's out-of-pocket payment exception policy. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1380807. [PMID: 38846617 PMCID: PMC11153787 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1380807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Universal health coverage and social protection are major global goals for tuberculosis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of an expanded policy to guarantee out-of-pocket costs on the treatment outcomes of patients with tuberculosis. Methods By linking the national tuberculosis report and health insurance data and performing covariate-adjusted propensity-score matching, we constructed data on health insurance beneficiaries (treatment group) who benefited from the out-of-pocket payment exemption policy and medical aid beneficiaries as the control group. Using difference-in-differences analysis, we analyzed tuberculosis treatment completion rates and mortality in the treatment and control groups. Results A total of 41,219 persons (10,305 and 30,914 medical aid and health insurance beneficiaries, respectively) were included in the final analysis (men 59.6%, women 40.4%). Following the implementation of out-of-pocket payment exemption policy, treatment completion rates increased in both the treatment and control groups; however, there was no significant difference between the groups (coefficient, -0.01; standard error, 0.01). After the policy change, the difference in mortality between the groups increased, with mortality decreasing by approximately 3% more in the treatment group compared with in the control group (coefficient: -0.03, standard error, 0.01). Conclusion There are limitations to improving treatment outcomes for tuberculosis with an out-of-pocket payment exemption policy alone. To improve treatment outcomes for tuberculosis and protect patients from financial distress due to the loss of income during treatment, it is essential to proactively implement complementary social protection policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Yu
- School of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health Systems, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Daseul Moon
- Busan Center for Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Dawoon Jeong
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Ae Kang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyeong In Lee
- The Korean Institute of Tuberculosis, Korean National Tuberculosis Association, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hongjo Choi
- School of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Konyang University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Fuady A, Hutanamon T, Herlinda O, Luntungan N, Wingfield T. Achieving universal social protection for people with tuberculosis. Lancet Public Health 2024; 9:e339-e344. [PMID: 38531368 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(24)00046-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
As we mark World TB Day 2024, we take this opportunity to reflect on the 2023 UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting (HLM) on the fight against tuberculosis-a milestone in the commitment towards a more coordinated, comprehensive approach to end tuberculosis globally. The UN HLM declaration on the fight against tuberculosis includes a specific pledge that all people with tuberculosis should receive a social benefits package to mitigate financial hardship. However, it is not known how this specific pledge will be realised and through which concrete actions. The use of the term financial hardship instead of WHO's key End TB Strategy indicator of catastrophic costs might prove challenging for robust evaluation of both the socioeconomic impact of tuberculosis and the effectiveness of socioeconomic support strategies to mitigate this impact. Moreover, in contrast to the financial pledges made for biomedical interventions, there was an absence of explicit investment in social protection. Such investments are imperative to facilitate successful expansion of social protection to meet the needs of people with tuberculosis and their households. Successful expansion of social protection is also dependent on political commitment and protected budgets from relevant stakeholders, including across government ministries. These strategies will help to ensure that the commitments on social protection made in the UN HLM declaration are turned into tangible actions with measurable effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Fuady
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia; Evidence-based Health Policy Centre, Indonesian Medical Education and Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | | | - Olivia Herlinda
- Stop TB Partnership Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia; Research and Policy Division, Center for Indonesia's Strategic Development Initiatives, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Tom Wingfield
- Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Department of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK; Department of Global Public Health, WHO Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Tropical and Infectious Disease Unit, Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust, Liverpool, UK
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Ilaiwy G, Heysell SK, Lukumay S, Agustino D, Mejan P, Simeon K, Thomas TA, Mduma E. Cash transfers to enhance completion of TB screening among household contacts in rural Tanzania. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2024; 28:176-182. [PMID: 38563339 PMCID: PMC11027996 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.23.0412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tanzanian TB guidelines recommend facility-based TB screening for symptomatic household contacts (HHCs) or those aged <5 years, but cost remains a major barrier. In this study, we evaluate the use of unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) to facilitate completion of HHC TB screening.METHODS In this prospective interventional study, we enrolled index people diagnosed with TB (PWTB) within 8 weeks of TB treatment initiation from the TB clinic at Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Haydom, Tanzania, and surrounding TB dispensaries in rural Tanzania. The study provided at the time of enrollment an UCT up to 40,000 Tanzanian shillings (USD16.91) directly to heads of households with PWTB, covered medical costs from screening activities and provided three bi-weekly phone reminders to facilitate HHC TB screening. The primary outcome was TB screening completion for all HHCs compared to the same period of the preceding year.RESULTS We enrolled 120 index PWTB, including 398 HHCs between July and December 2022. The median age for index PWTB was 35 years; 38% were females. Sixty-five (54%) households completed screening for all HHCs, compared to 7% during the same period of the preceding year.CONCLUSION These interventions may considerably improve completion of HHC TB screening in rural Tanzania..
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghassan Ilaiwy
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Scott K. Heysell
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Saning’o Lukumay
- Haydom Global Health Research Center, Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Haydom, Manyara, Tanzania
| | - Domitila Agustino
- Haydom Global Health Research Center, Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Haydom, Manyara, Tanzania
| | - Paulo Mejan
- Haydom Global Health Research Center, Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Haydom, Manyara, Tanzania
| | - Kusulla Simeon
- Haydom Global Health Research Center, Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Haydom, Manyara, Tanzania
| | - Tania A. Thomas
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Estomih Mduma
- Haydom Global Health Research Center, Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Haydom, Manyara, Tanzania
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Jeyashree K, Shanmugasundaram P, Shanmugasundaram D, Priya G SL, Thangaraj JWV, Ts S, Pandey S, Ramasamy S, Sharma R, Arunachalam S, Shah V, Janagaraj V, Sundari S S, Chadwick J, Shewade HD, Chowdhury A, Iyer S, Rao R, Mattoo SK, Murhekar MV. Direct benefit transfer for nutritional support of patients with TB in India-analysis of national TB program data of 3.7 million patients, 2018-2022. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:299. [PMID: 38273246 PMCID: PMC10811802 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17777-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with TB have additional nutritional requirements and thus additional costs to the household. Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana(NPY) is a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme(NTEP) in India which offers INR 500 monthly to all notified patients with TB for nutritional support during the period of anti-TB treatment. Five years after its implementation, we conducted the first nationwide evaluation of NPY. METHODS In our retrospective cohort study using programmatic data of patients notified with TB in nine randomly selected Indian states between 2018 and 2022, we estimated the proportion of patients who received at least one NPY instalment and the median time to receive the first instalment. We determined the factors associated (i) with non-receipt of NPY using a generalised linear model with Poisson family and log link and (ii) with time taken to receive first NPY benefit in 2022 using quantile regression at 50th percentile. RESULTS Overall, 3,712,551 patients were notified between 2018 and 2022. During this period, the proportion who received at least one NPY instalment had increased from 56.9% to 76.1%. Non-receipt was significantly higher among patients notified by private sector (aRR 2.10;2.08,2.12), reactive for HIV (aRR 1.69;1.64,1.74) and with missing/undetermined diabetic status (aRR 2.02;1.98,2.05). The median(IQR) time to receive the first instalment had reduced from 200(109,331) days in 2018 to 91(51,149) days in 2022. Patients from private sector(106.9;106.3,107.4days), those with HIV-reactive (103.7;101.8,105.7days), DRTB(104.6;102.6,106.7days) and missing/undetermined diabetic status (115.3;114,116.6days) experienced longer delays. CONCLUSIONS The coverage of NPY among patients with TB had increased and the time to receipt of benefit had halved in the past five years. Three-fourths of the patients received at least one NPY instalment, more than half of whom had waited over three months to receive the first instalment. NTEP has to focus on timely transfer of benefits to enable patients to meet their additional nutritional demands, experience treatment success and avoid catastrophic expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathiresan Jeyashree
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India.
| | - Prema Shanmugasundaram
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Devika Shanmugasundaram
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Sri Lakshmi Priya G
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Jeromie W V Thangaraj
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Sumitha Ts
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Sumit Pandey
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Sabarinathan Ramasamy
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Rahul Sharma
- TB support network, WHO Country Office for India, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Vaibhav Shah
- TB support network, WHO Country Office for India, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Sivakami Sundari S
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Joshua Chadwick
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Hemant Deepak Shewade
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Aniket Chowdhury
- TB support network, WHO Country Office for India, New Delhi, India
| | - Swati Iyer
- TB support network, WHO Country Office for India, New Delhi, India
| | | | | | - Manoj V Murhekar
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, R-127, TNHB, Ayapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
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Forse R, Nguyen TT, Dam T, Vo LNQ, Codlin AJ, Caws M, Minh HDT, Nguyen LH, Nguyen HB, Nguyen NV, Lönnroth K, Annerstedt KS. A qualitative assessment on the acceptability of providing cash transfers and social health insurance for tuberculosis-affected families in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002439. [PMID: 38055709 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
To achieve the Sustainable Development Goal's targets of universal health coverage (UHC) and poverty reduction, interventions are required that strengthen and harmonize both UHC and social protection. Vietnam is committed to achieving financial protection and over 90% of the general population has enrolled in its social health insurance (SHI) scheme. However, an estimated 63% of tuberculosis (TB)-affected households in Vietnam still face catastrophic costs and little is known about the optimal strategies to mitigate the costs of TB care for vulnerable families. This study assessed the acceptability of a social protection package containing cash transfers and SHI using individual interviews (n = 19) and focus group discussions (n = 3 groups). Interviews were analyzed through framework analysis. The study's main finding indicated that both conditional and unconditional cash transfers paired with SHI were acceptable, across six dimensions of acceptability. Cash transfers were considered beneficial for mitigating out-of-pocket expenditure, increasing TB treatment adherence, and improving mental health and general well-being, but the value provided was inadequate to fully alleviate the economic burden of the illness. The conditionality of the cash transfers was not viewed by participants as inappropriate, but it increased the workload of the TB program, which brought into question the feasibility of scale-up. SHI was viewed as a necessity by almost all participants, but people with TB questioned the quality of care received when utilizing it for auxiliary TB services. Access to multiple sources of social protection was deemed necessary to fully offset the costs of TB care. Additional research is needed to assess the impact of cash transfer interventions on health and economic outcomes in order to create an enabling policy environment for scale-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Forse
- Friends for International TB Relief, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, WHO Collaboration Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Thu Dam
- Friends for International TB Relief, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Luan Nguyen Quang Vo
- Friends for International TB Relief, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, WHO Collaboration Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andrew James Codlin
- Friends for International TB Relief, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, WHO Collaboration Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maxine Caws
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Hoa Binh Nguyen
- National Lung Hospital/National TB Control Programme, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nhung Viet Nguyen
- National Lung Hospital/National TB Control Programme, Hanoi, Vietnam
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Knut Lönnroth
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, WHO Collaboration Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristi Sidney Annerstedt
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, WHO Collaboration Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
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Ferreira MRL, Bonfim RO, Bossonario PA, Maurin VP, Valença ABM, Abreu PDD, Andrade RLDP, Fronteira I, Monroe AA. Social protection as a right of people affected by tuberculosis: a scoping review and conceptual framework. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:103. [PMID: 37993962 PMCID: PMC10664497 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01157-1] [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: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tuberculosis is an infectious disease strongly influenced by social determinants closely associated with cycles of poverty and social exclusion. Within this context, providing social protection for people affected by the disease constitutes a powerful instrument for reducing inequalities and enhancing inclusion and social justice. This study aimed to identify and synthesize strategies and measures aimed at ensuring social protection as a right of people affected by tuberculosis. METHODS This is a scoping review, with searches conducted in six databases in February 2023. We included publications from 2015 onwards that elucidate strategies and measures of social protection aimed at safeguarding the rights to health, nutrition, employment, income, housing, social assistance, and social security for people affected by tuberculosis. These strategies could be implemented through policies, programs, and/or governmental agreements in any given context. The data extracted from the articles underwent descriptive analysis and a narrative synthesis of findings based on the dimensions of social protection. Additionally, we developed a conceptual framework illustrating the organizational and operational aspects of measures and strategies related to each dimension of social protection identified in this review. RESULTS A total of 9317 publications were retrieved from the databases, of which sixty-three publications were included. The study's results highlighted measures and strategies concerning the social protection of people affected by tuberculosis. These measures and strategies revolved around the rights to proper nutrition and nourishment, income, housing, and health insurance, as well as expanded rights encompassing social assistance and social welfare. It was reported that ensuring these rights contributes to improving nutritional status and the quality of life for individuals with tuberculosis, along with reducing catastrophic costs, expanding access to healthcare interventions and services, and fostering TB treatment adherence, thereby leading to higher rates of TB cure. CONCLUSIONS Our findings identify social protection measures as a right for people affected by tuberculosis and have the potential to guide the development of evidence-based social and health policies through collaboration between tuberculosis control programs and governmental entities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafaele Oliveira Bonfim
- University of Sao Paulo at Ribeirao Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Paula Daniella de Abreu
- University of Sao Paulo at Ribeirao Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Inês Fronteira
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Aline Aparecida Monroe
- University of Sao Paulo at Ribeirao Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Sahan S, Topluoglu S, Temel F, Gokler ME, Kaygusuz S. Did Financial Social Support for Tuberculosis Patients Lead to Better Treatment Outcomes in Türkiye during 2018-2019? Jpn J Infect Dis 2023; 76:365-371. [PMID: 37648486 DOI: 10.7883/yoken.jjid.2023.196] [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] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
This study examined which factors, including the regular financial social support program, influence tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes and success rates. Patients with TB registered during 2018-2019 were included in this retrospective cohort study. We classified them into 2 groups: those who received financial support for at least one month, and those who did not. Of the 22,867 sampled patients, 5,033 received financial social support and 17,834 did not. The success rate was 11.9% higher among patients who received financial social support than among those who did not (97.34% versus 85.40%). After controlling for other factors, the success rate among all patients was 1.3 times higher for female, 2.6 times higher for those under 50 years, 1.5 times higher for extra-pulmonary TB, 1.5 times higher for a new case, 5.9 times higher for drug susceptible TB, and 5.8 times higher for those who received financial support. Crucially, this is the first study from Türkiye evaluating the effect of a regular financial social support program on TB treatment outcomes since the program began in 2018. We recommend regular financial support for patients with TB in all countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selda Sahan
- Department of Zoonotic and Vector Borne Diseases, General Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Türkiye
| | - Seher Topluoglu
- General Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Türkiye
| | - Fehminaz Temel
- Department of Communicable Diseases and Early Warning, General Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Türkiye
| | | | - Sedat Kaygusuz
- General Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Türkiye
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Sichali J, Denburg A, Khofi H, Mdoka C, Nyirenda D, Chimalizeni Y, Chagaluka G, Molyneux E, Henrion MYR, Gupta S, Israels T. Prevention of treatment abandonment in sub-Saharan Africa; Lessons learned in Malawi that guide the way forward to cost-effective interventions: A report from CANCaRe Africa. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30654. [PMID: 37644661 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Junious Sichali
- Department of Paediatrics, Collaborative African Network for Childhood Cancer Care and Research (CANCaRe Africa), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Avi Denburg
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Harriet Khofi
- Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Cecilia Mdoka
- Department of Paediatrics, Collaborative African Network for Childhood Cancer Care and Research (CANCaRe Africa), Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | | | | | | | - Marc Y R Henrion
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sumit Gupta
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Trijn Israels
- Department of Paediatrics, Collaborative African Network for Childhood Cancer Care and Research (CANCaRe Africa), Blantyre, Malawi
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Smith I, Forse R, Sidney Annerstedt K, Thanh NT, Nguyen L, Phan THY, Nguyen H, Codlin A, Vo LNQ, Nguyen NTT, Khan A, Creswell J, Pham Huy M, Basu L, Lönnroth K, Nguyen BH, Nguyen VN, Atkins S. What matters most? A qualitative study exploring priorities for supportive interventions for people with tuberculosis in urban Viet Nam. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e076076. [PMID: 37612116 PMCID: PMC10450053 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The health and economic burden of tuberculosis (TB) in urban Viet Nam is high. Social protection and support interventions can improve treatment outcomes and reduce costs. However, evidence regarding optimal strategies in this context is lacking. This study aimed to increase understanding of what people with TB and healthcare providers (HCPs) perceive as important to improve TB treatment outcomes and reduce costs. METHODS We conducted qualitative focus group discussions (seven groups, n=30) and key informant interviews (n=4) with people with drug-susceptible and multidrug-resistant TB and HCPs in Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City. Topic guides covered perspectives on and prioritisation of different forms of social protection and support. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and interpreted using a Framework for Transformative Social Protection. RESULTS We identified three themes and seven subthemes. The first theme, 'Existing financial safety nets are essential, but could go further to support people affected by TB', highlights that support to meet the medical costs of TB treatment and flexible cash transfers are a priority for people with TB and HCPs. The second, 'It is important to promote "physical and spiritual health" during TB treatment', demonstrates that extended psychosocial and nutritional support would encourage people with TB during their treatment. The third, 'Accessibility and acceptability are critical in designing social support interventions for people with TB', shows the importance of ensuring that support is accessible and proportional to the needs of people with TB and their families. CONCLUSIONS Accessible interventions that incorporate financial risk protection, nutritional and psychosocial support matter most to people with TB and HCPs in urban Viet Nam to improve their treatment outcomes and reduce catastrophic costs. This study can inform the design of stronger person-centred interventions to advance progress towards the goals of the WHO's End TB Strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Smith
- Department of Global Public Health Sciences, WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Medicine and Tuberculosis, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rachel Forse
- Department of Global Public Health Sciences, WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Medicine and Tuberculosis, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Friends for International TB Relief, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Kristi Sidney Annerstedt
- Department of Global Public Health Sciences, WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Medicine and Tuberculosis, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nguyen Thi Thanh
- Centre for Development of Community Health Initiatives, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | | | - Thi Hoang Yen Phan
- Centre for Development of Community Health Initiatives, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Han Nguyen
- Friends for International TB Relief, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Andrew Codlin
- Department of Global Public Health Sciences, WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Medicine and Tuberculosis, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Friends for International TB Relief, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Luan Nguyen Quang Vo
- Department of Global Public Health Sciences, WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Medicine and Tuberculosis, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Friends for International TB Relief, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | | | - Amera Khan
- Stop TB Partnership, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Knut Lönnroth
- Department of Global Public Health Sciences, WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Medicine and Tuberculosis, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Binh Hoa Nguyen
- National TB Program, National Lung Hospital, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | | | - Salla Atkins
- Department of Global Public Health Sciences, WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Medicine and Tuberculosis, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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Habib SS, Uzair M, Dhanwani A, Sohail K. A model for integrating social protection measures with TB control in Pakistan. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2023; 27:651-652. [PMID: 37491744 PMCID: PMC10365556 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.23.0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S S Habib
- The Aga Khan University, Stadium Road, P.O. Box 3500, Karachi, 74800, Pakistan
| | - M Uzair
- The Aga Khan University, Stadium Road, P.O. Box 3500, Karachi, 74800, Pakistan
| | - A Dhanwani
- The Aga Khan University, Stadium Road, P.O. Box 3500, Karachi, 74800, Pakistan
| | - K Sohail
- The Aga Khan University, Stadium Road, P.O. Box 3500, Karachi, 74800, Pakistan
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Maynard C, Tariq S, Sotgiu G, Migliori GB, van den Boom M, Field N. Psychosocial support interventions to improve treatment outcomes for people living with tuberculosis: a mixed methods systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 61:102057. [PMID: 37457116 PMCID: PMC10338299 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background People with tuberculosis (TB) face multi-dimensional barriers when accessing and engaging with care. There is evidence that providing psychosocial support within people-centered models of care can improve TB outcomes, however, there is limited consensus on what works. It remains important for such interventions to be rigorously assessed, and mixed methods systematic reviews are one way of synthesising data for policy makers to be able to access such evidence. Mixed methods reviews take a complexity perspective, with qualitative data being used to contextualise the quantitative findings and giving an insight into how interventions are contingent on variations in design and context. Methods Five electronic databases were searched from January 1 2015 to 14 January 2023 for randomised controlled trials, quasi-experimental trials, cohort studies and qualitative studies of interventions providing psychosocial support (material and/or psychological-based support) to adults with any clinical form of active TB. Studies with inpatient treatment as the standard of care were excluded. Quantitative studies reporting pre-specified standard TB outcomes were eligible. In line with established mixed methods review methodology, a convergent parallel-results synthesis design was followed: quantitative and qualitative syntheses were distinct and carried out using appropriate methods. A convergent coding matrix was then used to integrate the results. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021235211). Findings Twenty-three studies of interventions were included (12 quantitative, 10 qualitative, and 1 mixed methods study) were included. Most studies were conducted in low-and middle-income countries with a high-burden of TB. Three explanatory and contextual middle-range theories from the integration of qualitative and quantitative data were developed: effective interventions provide multi-dimensional support; psychological-based support is transformative but there is insufficient evidence that it improves treatment outcomes on its own; intervention delivery shapes a logic of care. Interpretation This review takes a complexity perspective to provide actionable and timely insight to inform the design and implementation of locally-appropriate and people-centered psychosocial support interventions within national TB programmes. Funding There was no funding source for this study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Giovanni Sotgiu
- Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Statistics Unit, University of Sassari, Italy
| | | | | | - Nigel Field
- UCL Institute for Global Health, UK
- Centre for Molecular Epidemiology and Translational Research, UCL Institute for Global Health, UK
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Guimarães NS, Magno L, de Paula AA, Silliman M, Anderle RVR, Rasella D, Macinko J, de Souza LE, Dourado I. The effects of cash transfer programmes on HIV/AIDS prevention and care outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of intervention studies. Lancet HIV 2023; 10:e394-403. [PMID: 37270225 PMCID: PMC10329870 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00290-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poverty and social inequality are risk factors for poor health outcomes in patients with HIV/AIDS. In addition to eligibility, cash transfer programmes can be divided into two categories: those with specific requirements (conditional cash transfers [CCTs]) and those without specific requirements (unconditional cash transfers). Common CCT requirements include health care (eg, undergoing an HIV test) and education (eg, children attending school). Trials assessing the effect of cash transfer programmes on HIV/AIDS outcomes have yielded divergent findings. This review aimed to summarise evidence to evaluate the effects of cash transfer programmes on HIV/AIDS prevention and care outcomes. METHODS For this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, LILACS, WHO IRIS, PAHO-IRIS, BDENF, Secretaria Estadual de Saúde SP, Localizador de Informação em Saúde, Coleciona SUS, BINACIS, IBECS, CUMED, SciELO, and Web of Science up to Nov 28, 2022. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effects of cash transfer programmes on HIV incidence, HIV testing, retention in HIV care, and antiretroviral therapy adherence, and conducted risk of bias and quality of evidence assessments using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations approach. A random-effects meta-analysis model was used to combine studies and calculate risk ratios (RRs). Subgroup analyses were performed using conditionality types (ie, school attendance or health care). The protocol was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42021274452. FINDINGS 16 RCTs, which included 5241 individuals, fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of these, 13 studies included conditionalities for receiving cash transfer programmes. The results showed that receiving a cash transfer was associated with lowered HIV incidence among individuals who had to meet health-care conditionalities (RR 0·74, 95% CI 0·56-0·98) and with increased retention in HIV care for pregnant women (1·14, 95% CI 1·03-1·27). No significant effect was observed for HIV testing (RR 0·45, 95% CI 0·18-1·12) or antiretroviral therapy adherence (1·13, 0·73-1·75). Lower risk of bias was observed for HIV incidence and having an HIV test. The strength of available evidence can be classified as moderate. INTERPRETATION Cash transfer programmes have a positive effect on mitigating HIV incidence for individuals who have to meet health-care conditionalities and on increasing retention in HIV care for pregnant women. These results show the potential of cash transfer programmes for HIV prevention and care, especially among people in extreme poverty, and highlight that cash transfer programmes must be considered when developing policies for HIV/AIDS control, as indicated by the UNAIDS 95-95-95 target of the HIV care continuum. FUNDING National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia Sernizon Guimarães
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil; Postgraduate Health Science, Medical Sciences College of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| | - Laio Magno
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil; Department of Life Sciences, State University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | - Miriam Silliman
- Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Davide Rasella
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil; Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Barcelona, Spain
| | - James Macinko
- Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Inês Dourado
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
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Shete PB, Kadota JL, Nanyunja G, Namale C, Nalugwa T, Oyuku D, Turyahabwe S, Kiwanuka N, Cattamanchi A, Katamba A. Evaluating the impact of cash transfers on tuberculosis (ExaCT TB): a stepped wedge cluster randomised controlled trial. ERJ Open Res 2023; 9:00182-2023. [PMID: 37342088 PMCID: PMC10277874 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00182-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mitigating financial barriers to tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and treatment is a core priority of the global TB agenda. We evaluated the impact of a cash transfer intervention on completion of TB testing and treatment initiation in Uganda. Methods We conducted a pragmatic complete stepped wedge randomised trial of a one-time unconditional cash transfer at 10 health centres between September 2019 and March 2020. People referred for sputum-based TB testing were enrolled to receive UGX 20 000 (∼USD 5.39) upon sputum submission. The primary outcome was the number initiating treatment for micro-bacteriologically confirmed TB within 2 weeks of initial evaluation. The primary analysis included cluster-level intent-to-treat and per-protocol analyses using negative binomial regression. Results 4288 people were eligible. The number diagnosed with TB initiating treatment was higher in the intervention period versus the pre-intervention period (adjusted rate ratio (aRR)=1.34) with a 95% CI of 0.62-2.91 (p=0.46), indicating a wide range of plausible true intervention effects. More were referred for TB testing (aRR=2.60, 95% CI 1.86-3.62; p<0.001) and completed TB testing (aRR=3.22, 95% CI 1.37-7.60; p=0.007) per National Guidelines. Results were similar but attenuated in per-protocol analyses. Surveys revealed that while the cash transfer supported testing completion, it was insufficient to address long-term underlying social/economic barriers. Interpretation While it is uncertain whether a single unconditional cash transfer increased the number of people diagnosed and treated for TB, it did support higher completion of diagnostic evaluation in a programmatic setting. A one-time cash transfer may offset some but not all of the social/economic barriers to improving TB diagnosis outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya B. Shete
- Center for Tuberculosis and Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jillian L. Kadota
- Center for Tuberculosis and Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Grace Nanyunja
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Catherine Namale
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Talemwa Nalugwa
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Denis Oyuku
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Noah Kiwanuka
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Adithya Cattamanchi
- Center for Tuberculosis and Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Achilles Katamba
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Hudson M, Todd H, Nalugwa T, Boccia D, Wingfield T, Shete PB. The impact of social protection interventions on treatment and socioeconomic outcomes of people with tuberculosis and their households: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. Wellcome Open Res 2023; 8:175. [PMID: 37744729 PMCID: PMC10511851 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.18807.1] [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] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of death due to infectious disease worldwide. People with TB and their households often suffer social and economic losses due to the cost of tuberculosis care. The World Health Organization 2015 End TB strategy called for socioeconomic support through social protection interventions. Social protection has the potential to enable people with TB and their households to break the cycle of TB and poverty, thereby improving both treatment and socioeconomic outcomes. This study aims to evaluate whether people with TB who are recipients of social protection interventions have better treatment and socioeconomic outcomes than those who are not recipients of social protection interventions. Methods: We will systematically review literature published in English between 2012 and 2021 from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, and grey literature from Google Scholar and selected, relevant databases. We will include studies that describe a social protection intervention (as defined by the World Bank) and report on TB treatment outcomes and/or socioeconomic outcomes. We will only include studies pertaining to populations in low-and-middle-income countries and/or countries with high TB burden. We will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Study quality will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias for randomized controlled trials and the Newcastle Ottawa Scale for non-randomised controlled studies. If sufficient quantitative data are available, we will perform a meta-analysis of aggregated outcomes. Lastly, we will use the Grading Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation to describe the overall quality of evidence. Ethics and dissemination: Ethical approval is not required for this systematic review, as all data extraction and analysis will be conducted on published documents. We will disseminate this protocol through conference presentations. The systematic review has been registered prospectively in the PROSPERO database (registration number CRD42022382181).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mollie Hudson
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Heather Todd
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Talemwa Nalugwa
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Delia Boccia
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tom Wingfield
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Tropical and Infectious Diseases Unit, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Priya B. Shete
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
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Musiimenta A, Tumuhimbise W, Atukunda E, Mugaba A, Linnemayr S, Haberer J. Digital Adherence Technologies and Mobile Money Incentives for Management of Tuberculosis Medication Among People Living With Tuberculosis: Mixed Methods Formative Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e45301. [PMID: 37043263 PMCID: PMC10134020 DOI: 10.2196/45301] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although there is an increasing use of digital adherence technologies (DATs), such as real-time monitors and SMS reminders in tuberculosis medication adherence, suboptimal patient engagement with various DATs has been reported. Additionally, financial constraints can limit DAT's utility. The perceived usefulness and the design mechanisms of DATs linked to mobile money financial incentives for tuberculosis medication management remain unclear. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to describe the perceived usefulness and design mechanisms for a DAT intervention called My Mobile Wallet, which is composed of real-time adherence monitors, SMS reminders, and mobile money incentives to support tuberculosis medication adherence in a low-income setting. METHODS This study used mixed methods approaches among persons with tuberculosis recruited from the Tuberculosis Clinic in the Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. We purposively sampled 21 persons with tuberculosis aged 18 years and older, who owned cell phones and were able to use SMS text messaging interventions. We also enrolled 9 participants who used DATs in our previous study. We used focus group discussions with the 30 participants to solicit perceptions about the initial version of the My Mobile Wallet intervention, and then iteratively refined subsequent versions of the intervention following a user-centered design approach until the beta version of the intervention that suited their needs was developed. Surveys eliciting information about participants' cell phone use and perceptions of the intervention were also administered. Content analysis was used to inductively analyze qualitative data to derive categories describing the perceived usefulness of the intervention, concerns, and design mechanisms. Stata (version 13; StataCorp) was used to analyze survey data. RESULTS Participants expressed the perceived usefulness of the My Mobile Wallet intervention in terms of being reminded to take medication, supported with transport to the clinic, and money to meet other tuberculosis medication-related costs, all of which were perceived to imply care, which could create a sense of connectedness to health care workers. This could consequently cause participants to develop a self-perceived need to prove their commitment to adherence to health care workers who care for them, thereby motivating medication adherence. For fear of unintended tuberculosis status disclosure, 20 (67%) participants suggested using SMS language that is confidential-not easily related to tuberculosis. To reduce the possibilities of using the money for other competing demands, 25 (83%) participants preferred sending the money 1-2 days before the appointment to limit the time lag between receiving the money and visiting the clinic. CONCLUSIONS DATs complemented with mobile money financial incentives could potentially provide acceptable approaches to remind, support, and motivate patients to adhere to taking their tuberculosis medication. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05656287; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05656287.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angella Musiimenta
- Faculty of Computing and Informatics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Angels Compassion Research and Development Initiative, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Wilson Tumuhimbise
- Faculty of Computing and Informatics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Angels Compassion Research and Development Initiative, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Esther Atukunda
- Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Aaron Mugaba
- Faculty of Computing and Informatics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Angels Compassion Research and Development Initiative, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Sebastian Linnemayr
- Department of Economics, Sociology, and Statistics, Rand Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, United States
| | - Jessica Haberer
- Medicine Department, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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Todd H, Hudson M, Grolmusova N, Kazibwe J, Pearman J, Skender K, Tran PB, Boccia D, Shete PB, Wingfield T. Social Protection Interventions for TB-Affected Households: A Scoping Review. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2023; 108:650-659. [PMID: 36806490 PMCID: PMC10076998 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.22-0470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) and poverty are inextricably linked. Catastrophic costs of TB illness drive TB-affected households into worsening impoverishment and hamper treatment success. The WHO's End TB Strategy recommends social protection for TB-affected households to mitigate financial shock and improve TB outcomes. This scoping review maps the landscape of social protection interventions for people with TB and their households in low- and middle-income countries with high TB burden. A systematic search of Medline, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science for relevant articles was performed, supplemented with a gray literature search of key databases. Articles were included if they described social protection available to people with TB and TB-affected households in a low- or middle-income country. Data were synthesized in tabular form, and descriptive narrative outlined the successes and challenges of the social protection interventions identified. The search identified 33,360 articles. After abstract screening, 74 articles underwent full text screening, and 49 were included in the final analysis. Forty-three types of social protection were identified, of which 24 were TB specific (i.e., only people with TB were eligible). Varying definitions were used to describe similar social protection interventions, which limited cross-study comparison. Intervention successes included acceptability and increased financial autonomy among recipients. Challenges included delays in intervention delivery and unexpected additional bank transfer fees. A wide range of acceptable social protection interventions are available, with cash transfer schemes predominating. Use of standardized definitions of social protection interventions would facilitate consolidation of evidence and enhance design and implementation in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Todd
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Mollie Hudson
- School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Natalia Grolmusova
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Global Public Health, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joseph Kazibwe
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Joseph Pearman
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kristina Skender
- Department of Global Public Health, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Phuong B. Tran
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Delia Boccia
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Priya B. Shete
- Center for Tuberculosis University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, California
| | - Tom Wingfield
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Global Public Health, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Tropical and Infectious Diseases Unit, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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18
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Hanrahan CF, Nonyane BAS, Lebina L, Mmolawa L, Siwelana T, West NS, Albaugh N, Martinson N, Dowdy DW. Household- Versus Incentive-Based Contact Investigation for Tuberculosis in Rural South Africa: A Cluster-Randomized Trial. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 76:1164-1172. [PMID: 36458857 PMCID: PMC10319771 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac920] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Household contact investigation for people newly diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) is poorly implemented, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Conditional cash incentives may improve uptake. METHODS We conducted a pragmatic, cluster-randomized, crossover trial of 2 TB contact investigation approaches (household-based and incentive-based) in 28 public primary care clinics in South Africa. Each clinic used 1 approach for 18 months, followed by a 6-month washout period, after which the opposite approach was used. Fourteen clinics were randomized to each approach. In the household-based arm, we conducted TB screening and testing of contacts at the household. In the incentive-based arm, both index patients and ≤10 of their close contacts (either within or outside the household) were given small cash incentives for presenting to study clinics for TB screening. The primary outcome was the number of people with incident TB who were diagnosed and started on treatment at study clinics. RESULTS From July 2016 to January 2020, we randomized 28 clinics to each study arm, and enrolled 782 index TB patients and 1882 contacts in the household-based arm and 780 index patients and 1940 contacts in the incentive-based arm. A total of 1413 individuals started on TB treatment in the household-based arm and 1510 in the incentive-based arm. The adjusted incidence rate ratio of TB treatment initiation in the incentive- versus household-based arms was 1.05 (95% confidence interval: .97-1.13). CONCLUSIONS Incentive-based contact investigation for TB has similar effectiveness to traditional household-based approaches and may be a viable alternative or complementary approach to household-based investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen F Hanrahan
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bareng Aletta Sanny Nonyane
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Lesego Mmolawa
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Diepkloof, Soweto, South Africa
| | - Tsundzukani Siwelana
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Diepkloof, Soweto, South Africa
| | - Nora S West
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nicholas Albaugh
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Neil Martinson
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Diepkloof, Soweto, South Africa
| | - David W Dowdy
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Schraufnagel AM, Shete PB. Evaluating Social Protection Policies With an Implementation Science Framework: India's Direct Benefit Transfer for Tuberculosis Comment on "Does Direct Benefit Transfer Improve Outcomes Among People With Tuberculosis? - A Mixed-Methods Study on the Need for a Review of the Cash Transfer Policy in India". Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:7698. [PMID: 37579424 PMCID: PMC10461881 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.7698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Addressing the social and structural determinants of tuberculosis (TB) through social protection programs is a central feature of global public health policy and disease elimination strategies. However, how best to implement such programs remains unknown. India's direct benefit transfer (DBT) program is the largest cash transfer program in the world dedicated to supporting individuals affected by TB. Despite several studies aimed at evaluating the impact of DBT, many questions remain about its implementation, mechanisms of action, and effectiveness. Dave and Rupani's mixed-methods evaluation of this program previously published in this journal offers valuable insights into the strengths and limitations of the DBT program in improving TB treatment outcomes. Their results also provide an opportunity for demonstrating how systematically collected data may be further analyzed and presented using implementation science, a field of study using methods to promote the systematic uptake of evidence-based interventions to support sustainable program scale-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M. Schraufnagel
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Priya B. Shete
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Rubinstein F, Blumenfeld A. Conditional Cash Transfer to Improve TB Outcomes: Necessary but Not Sufficient Comment on "Does Direct Benefit Transfer Improve Outcomes Among People With Tuberculosis? - A Mixed-Methods Study on the Need for a Review of the Cash Transfer Policy in India". Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:7643. [PMID: 37579479 PMCID: PMC10125050 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2022.7643] [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: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) still represents a major public health problem in many regions of the world. TB control can only be achieved through a comprehensive and inclusive response which takes into account both upstream and downstream coordinated interventions related to structural determinants such as poverty, nutrition, sanitation, housing and access to healthcare as well as timely diagnosis and support throughout the course of treatment. Several social and financial support strategies have been proposed to improve TB treatment adherence, including conditional cash transfers (CCTs). In this context, demonstrating that social protection directly improves a specific health outcome using routinely collected data, incomplete registries or surveillance reports brings about many methodological challenges. We briefly discuss this paper and some limitations, describe main findings from our own research in this area and make a call to expand social protection interventions to address structural conditions of those most affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Rubinstein
- Institute of Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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21
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Andom AT, Gilbert HN, Ndayizigiye M, Mukherjee JS, Lively CT, Nthunya J, Marole TA, Ratsiu M, Smith Fawzi MC, Yuen CM. Understanding barriers to tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment completion in a low-resource setting: A mixed-methods study in the Kingdom of Lesotho. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285774. [PMID: 37167298 PMCID: PMC10174523 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lesotho is one of the 30 countries with the highest tuberculosis incidence rates in the world, estimated at 650 per 100,000 population. Tuberculosis case detection is extremely low, particularly with the rapid spread of COVID-19, dropping from an estimated 51% in 2020 to 33% in 2021. The aim of this study is to understand the barriers to tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment completion. METHODS We used a convergent mixed methods study design. We collected data on the number of clients reporting symptoms upon tuberculosis screening, their sputum test results, the number of clients diagnosed, and the number of clients who started treatment from one district hospital and one health center in Berea district, Lesotho. We conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 53 health workers and patients. We used a content analysis approach to analyze qualitative data and integrated quantitative and qualitative findings in a joint display. FINDINGS During March-August, 2019, 218 clients at the hospital and 292 clients at the health center reported tuberculosis symptoms. The full diagnostic testing process was completed for 66% of clients at the hospital and 68% at the health center. Among clients who initiated tuberculosis treatment, 68% (61/90) at the hospital and 74% (32/43) at the health center completed treatment. The main barriers to testing and treatment completion were challenges at sample collection, lack of decentralized diagnostic services, and socioeconomic factors such as food insecurity and high patient movement to search for jobs. CONCLUSIONS Tuberculosis diagnosis could be improved through the effective decentralization of laboratory services at the health facility level, and treatment completion could be improved by providing food and other forms of social support to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afom T Andom
- Partners In Health-Lesotho, Maseru, Lesotho
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Hannah N Gilbert
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | | | - Joia S Mukherjee
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Partners In Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Christina Thompson Lively
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Mary C Smith Fawzi
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Courtney M Yuen
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
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22
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Monique OPPERMAN, Ilse DUPREEZ. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO PULMONARY TB TREATMENT LOST TO FOLLOW-UP IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: AN OVERVIEW. Afr J Infect Dis 2022; 17:60-73. [PMID: 36756489 PMCID: PMC9885020 DOI: 10.21010/ajidv17i1.6] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the available treatment options, pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of disease-related deaths worldwide. Treatment non-adherence/lost to follow-up (LTFU), particularly in developing countries, is a continuous concern. LTFU prolongs TB infectiousness and contributes to TB treatment failure, relapse, and death. Furthermore, LTFU also delays global TB eradication by promoting TB spread and drug-resistant TB strain development.[1] The purpose of this paper is to give an overview of the commonly observed risk factors associated with TB treatment LTFU in developing countries. Materials and Methods A literature survey was done of studies published in the past decade, which evaluated the risk factors for LTFU in TB patients, specifically in developing countries. Furthermore, some prospective TB treatment adherence initiatives and the feasibility of these initiatives within developing countries were assessed.[3]. Results Several variables, including socio-demographic, patient-related, TB disease and other health-related-factors, healthcare and system determinants, as well as treatment-related factors, were identified to increase the risk of TB treatment LTFU. More recently applied adherence interventions in developing countries, show potential for implementation on a larger scale. Conclusion Successful TB treatment is contingent on treatment adherence, and by addressing these persisting LTFU risk factors, treatment adherence in developing countries may be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- OPPERMAN, Monique
- Human Metabolomics, North-West University (Potchefstroom Campus), Private Bag x6001, Box 269, Potchefstroom, South Africa, 2531
| | - DU PREEZ, Ilse
- Human Metabolomics, North-West University (Potchefstroom Campus), Private Bag x6001, Box 269, Potchefstroom, South Africa, 2531,Corresponding Author’s E-Mail:
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23
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Dave JD, Rupani MP. Does Direct Benefit Transfer Improve Outcomes Among People With Tuberculosis? - A Mixed-Methods Study on the Need for a Review of the Cash Transfer Policy in India. Int J Health Policy Manag 2022; 11:2552-2562. [PMID: 35174676 PMCID: PMC9818107 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2022.5784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A direct benefit transfer (DBT) program was launched to address the dual epidemic of under-nutrition and tuberculosis (TB) in India. We conducted this study to determine whether non-receipt of DBT was associated with unfavorable treatment outcomes among patients with TB and to explore the perspectives of patients and program functionaries regarding the program. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study among 426 patients with drug-sensitive pulmonary TB on treatment during January-September 2019 to determine the association between non-receipt of DBT and unfavorable treatment outcomes, which was followed by in-depth interviews of 9 patients and 8 program functionaries to explore their perspectives on challenges and suggestions regarding the DBT program. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to determine whether non-receipt of DBT was independently associated with unfavorable treatment outcomes, while the in-depth interviews were transcribed to describe them as codes and categories. RESULTS Among the 426 patients, 9% of the patients did not receive DBT and 91% completed their treatment. Non-receipt of DBT was associated with a 5 (95% CI: 2-12) times higher odds of unfavorable treatment outcomes on multivariable analysis. Patients not owning a bank account was the primary challenge perceived by the program staff. The patients perceived the assistance under DBT to be insufficient to buy nutritious food throughout the course of treatment. The program functionaries as well as the patients suggested increasing the existing assistance under DBT along with the provision of a monthly nutritious food-kit. CONCLUSION DBT improved the treatment completion rates among patients with TB in our setting. Provision of a monthly nutritious food-kit with an increase in the existing assistance under DBT might further improve the treatment outcomes. Future research should determine the long-term financial sustainability for 'DBT plus food-kit' vs. universal cash transfers in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jigna D. Dave
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Government Medical College Bhavnagar, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar, India
| | - Mihir P. Rupani
- Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College Bhavnagar, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar, India
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), Ahmedabad, India
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24
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Yuen CM, Szkwarko D, Dubois MM, Shahbaz S, Yuengling KA, Urbanowski ME, Bain PA, Brands A, Masini T, Verkuijl S, Viney K, Hirsch-Moverman Y, Hussain H. Tuberculosis care models for children and adolescents: a scoping review. Bull World Health Organ 2022; 100:777-788L. [PMID: 36466210 PMCID: PMC9706349 DOI: 10.2471/blt.22.288447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To map which tuberculosis care models are best suited for children and adolescents. Methods We conducted a scoping review to assess the impact of decentralized, integrated and family-centred care on child and adolescent tuberculosis-related outcomes, describe approaches for these care models and identify key knowledge gaps. We searched seven literature databases on 5 February 2021 (updated 16 February 2022), searched the references of 18 published reviews and requested data from ongoing studies. We included studies from countries with a high tuberculosis burden that used a care model of interest and reported tuberculosis diagnostic, treatment or prevention outcomes for an age group < 20 years old. Findings We identified 28 studies with a comparator group for the impact assessment and added 19 non-comparative studies to a qualitative analysis of care delivery approaches. Approaches included strengthening capacity in primary-level facilities, providing services in communities, screening for tuberculosis in other health services, co-locating tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus treatment, offering a choice of treatment location and providing social or economic support. Strengthening both decentralized diagnostic services and community linkages led to one-to-sevenfold increases in case detection across nine studies and improved prevention outcomes. We identified only five comparative studies on integrated or family-centred care, but 11 non-comparative studies reported successful treatment outcomes for at least 71% of children and adolescents. Conclusion Strengthening decentralized services in facilities and communities can improve tuberculosis outcomes for children and adolescents. Further research is needed to identify optimal integrated and family-centred care approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney M Yuen
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA02115, United States of America (USA)
| | - Daria Szkwarko
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Melanie M Dubois
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, USA
| | | | | | - Michael E Urbanowski
- T.H. Chan School of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, USA
| | - Paul A Bain
- Countway Library, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Annemieke Brands
- Global Tuberculosis Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tiziana Masini
- Global Tuberculosis Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Verkuijl
- Global Tuberculosis Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kerri Viney
- Global Tuberculosis Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Hamidah Hussain
- Interactive Research and Development Global, Singapore, Singapore
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Rees CA, Cleon D, Davis AB, Sammy AM, Britto CD, Massaquoi W, Forkpa OW, Johnson AJ, Hook VF, MaCauley JA, Pewu GF, Gorpue M, Gborie A, Brown TT, Fannieh A, Dweh T, Marley RB, Baysah MK, Nowine NN, Niescierenko M, Zaizay L. Cash transfers and nutrition education to improve dietary diversity among children aged 6-23 months in Grand Gedeh County, Liberia: a cluster-randomized trial. J Trop Pediatr 2022; 68:6814389. [PMID: 36350714 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmac096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy of a cash transfer and nutrition education program on dietary diversity among children in Liberia. We hypothesized that a multi-pronged intervention would result in improved dietary diversity among children. METHODS We conducted a three-armed, cluster-randomized study in 42 communities (12 children per community) in Grand Gedeh County, Liberia, over a 12-month period. We randomly assigned communities to control (n = 14 communities), those that received both bimonthly cash transfers and a structured nutrition education program (n = 14 communities) and those that received bimonthly cash transfers alone (n = 14 communities). Community health assistants conducted bimonthly assessments in participants' homes. The primary outcome was the proportion of children aged 6-23 months who met minimum dietary diversity score (i.e., ≥4 food groups consumed per day). Secondary outcomes included meal frequency and healthcare utilization for illnesses (NCT04101487). RESULTS There were 599 children enrolled; 533 (88.9%) were retained through the trial period. The proportion of children who consumed ≥4 food groups per day did not differ among the three arms. However, children randomized to receive cash transfers had higher dietary diversity scores than the control group. Children in communities that received cash transfers alone and with nutrition education consumed significantly more meals per day and were less likely to have visits to clinics or hospitals for illnesses than children in control communities. CONCLUSION Bimonthly, unconditional cash transfers and nutrition education were associated with higher dietary diversity scores, greater meal frequency, and fewer healthcare visits for illnesses among children aged 6-23 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris A Rees
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Dadah Cleon
- Independent Consultant, Ministry of Health Liberia, Monrovia 9009, Liberia
| | | | - Andrew M Sammy
- UNICEF Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby 472, Papua New Guinea
| | | | | | | | - Andrew J Johnson
- National Public Health Institute of Liberia, Monrovia 777P+866, Liberia
| | - Varla F Hook
- National Public Health Institute of Liberia, Monrovia 777P+866, Liberia
| | - Jane A MaCauley
- National Public Health Institute of Liberia, Monrovia 777P+866, Liberia
| | - Garbie F Pewu
- National Public Health Institute of Liberia, Monrovia 777P+866, Liberia
| | - Mercy Gorpue
- National Public Health Institute of Liberia, Monrovia 777P+866, Liberia
| | - Amos Gborie
- National Public Health Institute of Liberia, Monrovia 777P+866, Liberia
| | - Trokon T Brown
- National Public Health Institute of Liberia, Monrovia 777P+866, Liberia
| | - Augustine Fannieh
- Grand Gedeh County Health Team, Ministry of Health Liberia, Monrovia 9009, Liberia
| | - Teeline Dweh
- Grand Gedeh County Health Team, Ministry of Health Liberia, Monrovia 9009, Liberia
| | - Ruth B Marley
- Grand Gedeh County Health Team, Ministry of Health Liberia, Monrovia 9009, Liberia
| | - Massaboi K Baysah
- Grand Gedeh County Health Team, Ministry of Health Liberia, Monrovia 9009, Liberia
| | - Netus N Nowine
- Grand Gedeh County Health Team, Ministry of Health Liberia, Monrovia 9009, Liberia
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Tang W, Xing W, Li C, Nie Z, Cai M. Differences in CT imaging signs between patients with tuberculosis and those with tuberculosis and concurrent lung cancer. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6234-6242. [PMID: 36247264 PMCID: PMC9556475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to compare the differences in imaging features between patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) alone and patients with TB complicated with lung cancer (LCA) as well as to investigate the diagnostic value of CT in these two groups. METHODS In this retrospective study, 110 patients with confirmed TB admitted to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University from March 2020 to April 2021 were collected and divided into TB+LCA group (50 cases, diagnosed with TB complicated with lung cancer) and TB group (60 cases, diagnosed with TB alone) according to actual diagnosis. The CT results of both groups were analyzed by the same group of physicians in a double-blind manner. The diagnostic value of CT for TB alone and TB complicated with lung cancer was calculated. The differences in CT imaging characteristics between the two groups were investigated. The differences in the structural characteristics of para-cancerous tissue between the two groups were analyzed. RESULTS The diagnostic accuracy of CT was 91.67% in TB patients (55/60) and 92.00% in TB+LCA patients (46/50) without significant difference (X2 =0.004, P=0.949). The detection rate of spiculation, lobulation and cavitation in TB+LCA group was significantly higher than that in TB group (P<0.05), and the distribution, size and wall thickness of cavitation varied significantly between the two groups (P<0.05). Patients in TB group had higher percentage of mediastinal lymph node calcification, peripheral satellite lesion, and mediastinal lymph node enlargement around the TB lesions compared with those in TB+LCA group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION CT has certain application value in differentiating TB alone from TB complicated with lung cancer, and there are many similarities in the imaging features of the two conditions. CT can be considered as a preliminary means of differential diagnosis of TB complicated with lung cancer, which is helpful to the primary screening diagnosis of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencai Tang
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Weijin Xing
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Chuanzi Li
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Zhongshi Nie
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Mubin Cai
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
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Mainga T, Gondwe M, Mactaggart I, Stewart RC, Shanaube K, Ayles H, Bond V. Qualitative study of patient experiences of mental distress during TB investigation and treatment in Zambia. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:179. [PMID: 35854324 PMCID: PMC9295264 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00881-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mental health and TB syndemic is a topic that remains under-researched with a significant gap in acknowledging and recognizing patient experiences, particularly in the sub-Saharan African region. In this qualitative study conducted in Zambia, we aimed to explore the lived mental health experiences of TB patients focusing on their multi-layered drivers of distress, and by so doing highlighting contextual factors that influence mental distress in TB patients in this setting.
Methods The study draws on qualitative data collected in 2018 as part of the Tuberculosis Reduction through Expanded Antiretroviral Treatment and Screening for active TB trial (TREATS) being conducted in Zambia. The data was collected through in-depth interviews with former TB patients (n = 80) from 8 urban communities participating in the TREATS trial. Thematic analysis was conducted. Additional quantitative exploratory analysis mapping mental distress symptoms on demographic, social, economic and TB characteristics of participants was conducted.
Results Most participants (76%) shared that they had experienced some form of mental distress during their TB investigation and treatment period. The reported symptoms ranged in severity. Some participants reported mild distress that did not disrupt their daily lives or ability to adhere to their TB medication, while other participants reported more severe symptoms of distress, for example, 15% of participants shared that they had suicidal ideation and thoughts of self-harm during their time on treatment. Mental distress was driven by unique interactions between individual, social and health level factors most of which were inextricably linked to poverty. Mental distress caused by individual level drivers such as TB morbidity often abated once participants started feeling better, however social, economic and health system level drivers of distress persisted during and beyond TB treatment. Conclusion The findings illustrate that mental distress during TB is driven by multi-layered and intersecting stresses, with the economic stress of poverty often being the most powerful driver. Measures are urgently needed to support TB patients during the investigation and treatment phase, including increased availability of mental health services, better social security safety nets during TB treatment, and interventions targeting TB, HIV and mental health stigma. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03739736. Trial registration date: November 14, 2018. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40359-022-00881-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mainga
- Zambart, University of Zambia School of Public Health, Ridgeway, Zambia. .,Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - M Gondwe
- Zambart, University of Zambia School of Public Health, Ridgeway, Zambia
| | - I Mactaggart
- Department of Department of Population Health, International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - R C Stewart
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit (MEIRU), Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - K Shanaube
- Zambart, University of Zambia School of Public Health, Ridgeway, Zambia
| | - H Ayles
- Zambart, University of Zambia School of Public Health, Ridgeway, Zambia.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - V Bond
- Zambart, University of Zambia School of Public Health, Ridgeway, Zambia.,Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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28
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The effect of conditional cash transfers on the control of neglected tropical disease: a systematic review. Lancet Glob Health 2022; 10:e640-e648. [PMID: 35427521 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(22)00065-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are diseases of poverty and affect 1·5 billion people globally. Conditional cash transfer (CCTs) programmes alleviate poverty in many countries, potentially contributing to improved NTD outcomes. This systematic review examines the relationship between CCTs and screening, incidence, or treatment outcomes of NTDs. METHODS In this systematic review we searched MEDLINE, Embase, Lilacs, EconLit, Global Health, and grey literature websites on Sept 17, 2020, with no date or language restrictions. Controlled quantitative studies including randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies evaluating CCT interventions in low-income and middle-income countries were included. Any outcome measures related to WHO's 20 diseases classified as NTDs were included. Studies from high-income countries were excluded. Two authors (AA and TH) extracted data from published studies and appraised risk of biases using the Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions and Risk of Bias 2 tools. Results were analysed narratively. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42020202480. FINDINGS From the search, 5165 records were identified; of these, 11 studies were eligible for inclusion covering four CCTs in Brazil, the Philippines, Mexico, and Zambia. Most studies were either RCTs or quasi-experimental studies and ten were assessed to be of moderate quality. Seven studies reported improved NTD outcomes associated with CCTs, in particular, reduced incidence of leprosy and increased uptake of deworming treatments. There was some evidence of greater benefit of CCTS in lower socioeconomic groups but subgroup analysis was scarce. Methodological weaknesses include self-reported outcomes, missing data, improper randomisation, and differences between CCT and comparator populations in observational studies. The available evidence is currently limited, covering a small proportion of CCTs and NTDs. INTERPRETATION CCTs can be associated with improved NTD outcomes, and could be driven by both improvements in living standards from cash benefits and direct health effects from conditionalities related to health-care use. This evidence adds to the knowledge of health-improving effects from CCTs in poor and vulnerable populations. FUNDING None.
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29
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Pega F, Pabayo R, Benny C, Lee EY, Lhachimi SK, Liu SY. Unconditional cash transfers for reducing poverty and vulnerabilities: effect on use of health services and health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 3:CD011135. [PMID: 35348196 PMCID: PMC8962215 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011135.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unconditional cash transfers (UCTs; provided without obligation) for reducing poverty and vulnerabilities (e.g. orphanhood, old age, or HIV infection) are a social protection intervention addressing a key social determinant of health (income) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The relative effectiveness of UCTs compared with conditional cash transfers (CCTs; provided only if recipients follow prescribed behaviours, e.g. use a health service or attend school) is unknown. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of UCTs on health services use and health outcomes in children and adults in LMICs. Secondary objectives are to assess the effects of UCTs on social determinants of health and healthcare expenditure, and to compare the effects of UCTs versus CCTs. SEARCH METHODS For this update, we searched 15 electronic academic databases, including CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EconLit, in September 2021. We also searched four electronic grey literature databases, websites of key organisations and reference lists of previous systematic reviews, key journals and included study records. SELECTION CRITERIA We included both parallel-group and cluster-randomised controlled trials (C-RCTs), quasi-RCTs, cohort studies, controlled before-and-after studies (CBAs), and interrupted time series studies of UCT interventions in children (0 to 17 years) and adults (≥ 18 years) in LMICs. Comparison groups received either no UCT, a smaller UCT or a CCT. Our primary outcomes were any health services use or health outcome. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened potentially relevant records for inclusion, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. We obtained missing data from study authors if feasible. For C-RCTs, we generally calculated risk ratios for dichotomous outcomes from crude frequency measures in approximately correct analyses. Meta-analyses applied the inverse variance or Mantel-Haenszel method using a random-effects model. Where meta-analysis was impossible, we synthesised results using vote counting based on effect direction. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS We included 34 studies (25 studies of 20 C-RCTs, six CBAs, and three cohort studies) involving 1,140,385 participants (45,538 children, 1,094,847 adults) and 50,095 households in Africa, the Americas and South-East Asia in our meta-analyses and narrative syntheses. These analysed 29 independent data sets. The 24 UCTs identified, including one basic universal income intervention, were pilot or established government programmes or research experiments. The cash value was equivalent to 1.3% to 81.9% of the annualised gross domestic product per capita. All studies compared a UCT with no UCT; three studies also compared a UCT with a CCT. Most studies carried an overall high risk of bias (i.e. often selection or performance bias, or both). Most studies were funded by national governments or international organisations, or both. Throughout the review, we use the words 'probably' to indicate moderate-certainty evidence, 'may/maybe' for low-certainty evidence, and 'uncertain' for very low-certainty evidence. Health services use We assumed greater use of any health services to be beneficial. UCTs may not have impacted the likelihood of having used any health service in the previous 1 to 12 months, when participants were followed up between 12 and 24 months into the intervention (risk ratio (RR) 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00 to 1.09; I2 = 2%; 5 C-RCTs, 4972 participants; low-certainty evidence). Health outcomes At one to two years, UCTs probably led to a clinically meaningful, very large reduction in the likelihood of having had any illness in the previous two weeks to three months (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.92; I2 = 53%; 6 C-RCTs, 9367 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). UCTs may have increased the likelihood of having been food secure over the previous month, at 13 to 36 months into the intervention (RR 1.25, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.45; I2 = 85%; 5 C-RCTs, 2687 participants; low-certainty evidence). UCTs may have increased participants' level of dietary diversity over the previous week, when assessed with the Household Dietary Diversity Score and followed up 24 months into the intervention (mean difference (MD) 0.59 food categories, 95% CI 0.18 to 1.01; I2 = 79%; 4 C-RCTs, 9347 participants; low-certainty evidence). Despite several studies providing relevant evidence, the effects of UCTs on the likelihood of being moderately stunted and on the level of depression remain uncertain. We found no study on the effect of UCTs on mortality risk. Social determinants of health UCTs probably led to a clinically meaningful, moderate increase in the likelihood of currently attending school, when assessed at 12 to 24 months into the intervention (RR 1.06, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.09; I2 = 0%; 8 C-RCTs, 7136 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). UCTs may have reduced the likelihood of households being extremely poor, at 12 to 36 months into the intervention (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87 to 0.97; I2 = 63%; 6 C-RCTs, 3805 participants; low-certainty evidence). The evidence was uncertain for whether UCTs impacted livestock ownership, participation in labour, and parenting quality. Healthcare expenditure Evidence from eight cluster-RCTs on healthcare expenditure was too inconsistent to be combined in a meta-analysis, but it suggested that UCTs may have increased the amount of money spent on health care at 7 to 36 months into the intervention (low-certainty evidence). Equity, harms and comparison with CCTs The effects of UCTs on health equity (or unfair and remedial health inequalities) were very uncertain. We did not identify any harms from UCTs. Three cluster-RCTs compared UCTs versus CCTs with regard to the likelihood of having used any health services or had any illness, or the level of dietary diversity, but evidence was limited to one study per outcome and was very uncertain for all three. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This body of evidence suggests that unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) may not impact a summary measure of health service use in children and adults in LMICs. However, UCTs probably or may improve some health outcomes (i.e. the likelihood of having had any illness, the likelihood of having been food secure, and the level of dietary diversity), two social determinants of health (i.e. the likelihoods of attending school and being extremely poor), and healthcare expenditure. The evidence on the relative effectiveness of UCTs and CCTs remains very uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Pega
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Roman Pabayo
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Claire Benny
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Eun-Young Lee
- School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Stefan K Lhachimi
- Research Group for Evidence-Based Public Health, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology, Bremen, Germany
| | - Sze Yan Liu
- Public Health, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
- Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
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Dixit K, Biermann O, Rai B, Aryal TP, Mishra G, Teixeira de Siqueira-Filha N, Paudel PR, Pandit RN, Sah MK, Majhi G, Levy J, Rest JV, Gurung SC, Dhital R, Lönnroth K, Squire SB, Caws M, Sidney K, Wingfield T. Barriers and facilitators to accessing tuberculosis care in Nepal: a qualitative study to inform the design of a socioeconomic support intervention. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e049900. [PMID: 34598986 PMCID: PMC8488704 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-049900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychosocial and economic (socioeconomic) barriers, including poverty, stigma and catastrophic costs, impede access to tuberculosis (TB) services in low-income countries. We aimed to characterise the socioeconomic barriers and facilitators of accessing TB services in Nepal to inform the design of a locally appropriate socioeconomic support intervention for TB-affected households. DESIGN From August 2018 to July 2019, we conducted an exploratory qualitative study consisting of semistructured focus group discussions (FGDs) with purposively selected multisectoral stakeholders. The data were managed in NVivo V.12, coded by consensus and analysed thematically. SETTING The study was conducted in four districts, Makwanpur, Chitwan, Dhanusha and Mahottari, which have a high prevalence of poverty and TB. PARTICIPANTS Seven FGDs were conducted with 54 in-country stakeholders, grouped by stakeholders, including people with TB (n=21), community stakeholders (n=13) and multidisciplinary TB healthcare professionals (n=20) from the National TB Programme. RESULTS The perceived socioeconomic barriers to accessing TB services were: inadequate TB knowledge and advocacy; high food and transportation costs; income loss and stigma. The perceived facilitators to accessing TB care and services were: enhanced championing and awareness-raising about TB and TB services; social protection including health insurance; cash, vouchers and/or nutritional allowance to cover food and travel costs; and psychosocial support and counselling integrated with existing adherence counselling from the National TB Programme. CONCLUSION These results suggest that support interventions that integrate TB education, psychosocial counselling and expand on existing cash transfer schemes would be locally appropriate and could address the socioeconomic barriers to accessing and engaging with TB services faced by TB-affected households in Nepal. The findings have been used to inform the design of a socioeconomic support intervention for TB-affected households. The acceptability, feasibility and impact of this intervention on TB-related costs, stigma and TB treatment outcomes, is now being evaluated in a pilot implementation study in Nepal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kritika Dixit
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
- Department of Global Public Health, WHO Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olivia Biermann
- Department of Global Public Health, WHO Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bhola Rai
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Tara Prasad Aryal
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Gokul Mishra
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Noemia Teixeira de Siqueira-Filha
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Puskar Raj Paudel
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Ram Narayan Pandit
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Manoj Kumar Sah
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Govinda Majhi
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Jens Levy
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Job van Rest
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Suman Chandra Gurung
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Raghu Dhital
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Knut Lönnroth
- Department of Global Public Health, WHO Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S Bertel Squire
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Tropical and Infectious Disease Unit, Liverpool University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Maxine Caws
- Department of Research, Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT), Kathmandu, Nepal
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kristi Sidney
- Department of Global Public Health, WHO Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tom Wingfield
- Department of Global Public Health, WHO Collaborating Centre on Tuberculosis and Social Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Tropical and Infectious Disease Unit, Liverpool University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
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Baluku JB, Nakazibwe B, Twinomugisha B, Najjuuko R, Isabella N, Nassozi S, Namiiro S, Katagira W, Byonanebye DM, Sekaggya-Wiltshire C, Muchiri J, Ndungu E, Anguzu G, Mayanja-Kizza H, Andia-Biraro I. One dollar incentive improves tuberculosis treatment outcomes in programmatic settings in rural Uganda. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19346. [PMID: 34588552 PMCID: PMC8481464 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98770-7] [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: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The study aim was to determine the association of a one United States dollar (USD) dollar incentive and tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes among people with TB receiving treatment at a rural hospital in Uganda under programmatic settings. We conducted a quasi-experiment in which people with TB were randomised (1:1 ratio) to receive either a one USD incentive at months 0, 2, 5 and 6 (Dollar arm) or routine care (Routine arm). A second control group (Retrospective controls) consisted of participants who had a treatment outcome in the preceding 6 months. Treatment outcomes were compared between the intervention and control groups using Pearson’s chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. The association between the incentive and treatment outcomes was determined using Poisson regression analysis with robust variances. Between November 2018 and October 2019, we enrolled 180 participants (60 in the Dollar arm and 120 in the Control group). TB cure (33.3% vs. 20.8%, p = 0.068) and treatment success (70.0% vs. 59.2% p = 0.156) were higher in the Dollar arm than the Control group, while loss-to-follow-up was lower in the Dollar arm (10.0% vs. 20.8% p = 0.070). Participants in the Dollar arm were more likely to be cured (adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR): 1.59, 95% CI 1.04–2.44, p = 0.032) and less likely to be lost to follow-up (aIRR: 0.44, 95% CI 0.20–0.96, p = 0.040). A one-dollar incentive was associated with higher TB cure and lower loss-to-follow-up among people with TB in rural Uganda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Baruch Baluku
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. .,Makerere University Lung Institute, Kampala, Uganda. .,Directorate of Programs, Mildmay Uganda, Wakiso, PO Box 26343, Kampala, Uganda.
| | | | | | | | | | - Sylvia Nassozi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Christine Sekaggya-Wiltshire
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.,MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Muchiri
- Department of Community Health, School of Public health, Mount Kenya University, Thika, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Ndungu
- Department of Community Health Nursing, Mount Kenya University, Thika, Kenya
| | - Godwin Anguzu
- Makerere University Infectious Disease Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Irene Andia-Biraro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.,MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Disease (ITD), London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Bustos M, Luu K, Lau LL, Dodd W. Addressing tuberculosis through complex community-based socioeconomic interventions in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic realist review. Glob Public Health 2021; 17:1924-1944. [PMID: 34403306 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1966487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The established relationship between poverty and tuberculosis has led to the implementation of complex socioeconomic interventions to address poverty as both a risk factor for and consequence of tuberculosis. However, limited research to date has examined the conditions that facilitate the successful implementation of these interventions. We conducted a systematic realist review to examine how complex socioeconomic interventions for tuberculosis treatment and care were defined, implemented, and evaluated in low- and middle-income countries. We used a systematic search to identify published work that implemented complex socioeconomic interventions for tuberculosis, followed by a realist analysis informed by existing programme theories. From a total of 2825 collected records, 36 peer-reviewed articles and 17 grey literature reports were included in this review. The realist analysis identified three main contexts (sociopolitical and cultural; relational and interpersonal; operational and administrative) and ten mechanisms that facilitated successful implementation of interventions. Overall, this review highlights the importance of political commitment in shaping sustainable programme delivery, the role of healthcare and community-based provider training in creating patient-centred treatment environments, and the opportunity to leverage operational research for evidence-based decision making to address the socioeconomic needs of tuberculosis patients experiencing poverty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Bustos
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kathy Luu
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lincoln L Lau
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.,International Care Ministries, Manila, Philippines.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Warren Dodd
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Peetluk LS, Rebeiro PF, Ridolfi FM, Andrade BB, Cordeiro-Santos M, Kritski A, Durovni B, Calvacante S, Figueiredo MC, Haas DW, Liu D, Rolla VC, Sterling TR. A clinical prediction model for unsuccessful pulmonary tuberculosis treatment outcomes. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 74:973-982. [PMID: 34214166 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab598] [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] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite widespread availability of curative therapy, tuberculosis treatment outcomes remain suboptimal. Clinical prediction models can inform treatment strategies to improve outcomes. Using baseline clinical data, we developed a prediction model for unsuccessful TB treatment outcome and evaluated the incremental value of HIV-related severity and isoniazid acetylator status. METHODS Data originated from the Regional Prospective Observational Research for Tuberculosis Brazil cohort, which enrolled newly-diagnosed tuberculosis patients in Brazil from 2015-2019. This analysis included participants with culture-confirmed, drug-susceptible pulmonary tuberculosis who started first-line anti-tuberculosis therapy and had ≥12 months of follow-up. The endpoint was unsuccessful tuberculosis treatment: composite of death, treatment failure, regimen switch, incomplete treatment, or not evaluated. Missing predictors were imputed. Predictors were chosen via bootstrapped backward selection. Discrimination and calibration were evaluated with c-statistics and calibration plots, respectively. Bootstrap internal validation estimated overfitting, and a shrinkage factor was applied to improve out-of-sample prediction. Incremental value was evaluated with likelihood ratio-based measures. RESULTS Of 944 participants, 191 (20%) had unsuccessful treatment outcomes. The final model included seven baseline predictors: hemoglobin, HIV-infection, drug use, diabetes, age, education, and tobacco use. The model demonstrated good discrimination (c-statistic=0.77; 95% confidence interval: 0.73-0.80) and was well-calibrated (optimism-corrected intercept and slope: -0.12 and 0.89, respectively). HIV-related factors and isoniazid acetylation status did not improve prediction of the final model. CONCLUSIONS The prediction model, using information readily available at treatment initiation, performed well in this population. The findings may guide future work to allocate resources or inform targeted interventions for high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren S Peetluk
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Peter F Rebeiro
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Felipe M Ridolfi
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bruno B Andrade
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,Multinational Organization Network Sponsoring Translational and Epidemiological Research (MONSTER) Initiative, Instituto Brasileiro para Investigação da Tuberculose, Fundação José Silveira, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.,Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.,Universidade Salvador (UNIFACS), Laureate Universities, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.,Escola Bahiana de Medicina e Saúde Pública (EBMSP), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.,Faculdade de Tecnologia e Ciências (FTC), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Cordeiro-Santos
- Fundação Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil.,Universidade do Estado do Amazonas (UEA), Manaus, Brazil
| | - Afranio Kritski
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Faculdade de Medicina, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Betina Durovni
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Solange Calvacante
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Faculdade de Medicina, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marina C Figueiredo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - David W Haas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Dandan Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Valeria C Rolla
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Timothy R Sterling
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
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Wu Q, Huang Y, Zhou Y, Zhou G, Wu H, He J. Study of the association of interferon-γ gene polymorphisms and Th1/Th2 balance in tuberculosis susceptibility. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:5533-5539. [PMID: 34150154 PMCID: PMC8205772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigated and analyzed the association of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) gene polymorphisms and Th1/Th2 balance in tuberculosis susceptibility. METHODS From January 2018 to January 2020, 121 tuberculosis patients that were hospitalized for initial treatment and were chosen as the pulmonary tuberculosis group, and another 80 healthy individuals with physical examination in the same period were selected as the control group. The genetic distribution of IFN-γ +874 sites in the two sets of subjects was detected by sequence-specific primer PCR (PCR-SSP), the serum IFN-γ level was detected by ELISA, and the ratio of Th1 and Th2 on cells in two sets of subjects were detected by flow cytometry. Subsequently, we compared the differences in IFN-γ degree and the changes in Th1/Th2 in patients with different genotypes. RESULTS The difference in the distribution of IFN-γ (+874 T/A) genotype frequencies between the two groups of subjects was significantly different (P<0.05), and the frequency of A allele in the tuberculosis group was clearly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the Th1 cells percentage in the pulmonary tuberculosis group decreased remarkably, the Th2 cells percentage increased significantly, while the Th1/Th2 ratio was notably decreased (P<0.05). In addition, the Th1/Th2 ratio in tuberculosis patients with an IFN-γ (+874 T/A) genotype AA was remarkably lower than those with AT+TT genotype (P<0.05). CONCLUSION An AA genotype with IFN-γ (+874 T/A) is a susceptible genotype for tuberculosis. The mechanism may be related to the imbalance of Th1/Th2 which is more likely to occur in patients with AA genotype. This can lead to a decline in immune function of the body, making it more susceptible to infection with mycobacterium which induces tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuping Wu
- Department of Tuberculosis, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Yuanjiang Huang
- Department of Tuberculosis, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Tuberculosis, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Guizhong Zhou
- Department of Tuberculosis, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Haifeng Wu
- Department of Tuberculosis, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Jing He
- Department of Tuberculosis, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
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Lee G, Meyer AJ, Kizito S, Katamba A, Davis JL, Armstrong-Hough M. Predictors of evaluation in child contacts of TB patients. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2021; 24:847-849. [PMID: 32912391 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.20.0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G Lee
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Children´s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - A J Meyer
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA, Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala
| | - S Kizito
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala
| | - A Katamba
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - J L Davis
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA, Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine Section, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - M Armstrong-Hough
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Makerere University, Kampala, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA, ,
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Kadota JL, Nabwire S, Nalugwa T, White JS, Cattamanchi A, Katamba A, Shete PB. Patient Perspectives and Willingness to Accept Incentives for Tuberculosis Diagnostic Evaluation in Uganda. Value Health Reg Issues 2021; 25:48-56. [PMID: 33773327 DOI: 10.1016/j.vhri.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We assessed attitudes and perceptions and willingness to accept (WTA) varying incentive structures for completing tuberculosis (TB) diagnostic evaluation among patients in Uganda. METHODS We surveyed 177 adult patients undergoing TB evaluation at 10 health centers between September 2018 and March 2019. We collected household sociodemographic information and assessed attitudes and perceptions of incentives. We surveyed patients regarding their willingness to complete TB diagnostic evaluation in exchange for incentives ranging in value from 500 Ugandan shillings (USh) to 25 000USh (~$0.15-$6.75). We compared associations between WTA and patient characteristics using ordered logistic regression. RESULTS Participant willingness to return to the health center to complete TB diagnostic evaluation increased proportionally with incentive amount. The median participant accepted between 2000 and 5000 USh. Cash (52%) and transportation vouchers (34%) were the most popular incentive types. Half of respondents preferred unconditional incentives; for a multiday evaluation, 84% preferred conditioning incentive receipt upon returning to the health center. In multivariate models, we found the pairwise difference between the third and lowest income quartile (aOR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.20-4.69; P = .01), younger age, and difficulty returning to the health center to be significantly associated with WTA higher incentive thresholds. CONCLUSIONS In Uganda, incentives such as cash transfers or transportation vouchers are an acceptable intervention for facilitating adherence to TB diagnostic evaluation. Household income is associated with preferred incentive structure and amount, especially for those at the cusp of the poverty threshold who are more likely to prefer unconditional and higher valued incentives. Targeted and context-specific socioeconomic supports for at-risk patients are needed to optimize outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian L Kadota
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA.
| | - Sarah Nabwire
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Talemwa Nalugwa
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Justin S White
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Adithya Cattamanchi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA; Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Achilles Katamba
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda; Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Priya B Shete
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA; Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
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Rohit A, Kumar AMV, Thekkur P, Shastri SG, Kumar RBN, Nirgude AS, Reddy MM, Ravichandra C, Somashekar N, Balu PS. Does provision of cash incentive to HIV-infected tuberculosis patients improve the treatment success in programme settings? A cohort study from South India. J Family Med Prim Care 2020; 9:3955-3964. [PMID: 33110793 PMCID: PMC7586600 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_474_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In April 2018, the Government of India launched 'Nikshay Poshan Yojana' (NPY), a cash assistance scheme (500 Indian rupees [~8 USD] per month) intended to provide nutritional support and improve treatment outcomes among tuberculosis (TB) patients. Objective To compare the treatment outcomes of HIV-infected TB patients initiated on first-line anti-TB treatment in five selected districts of Karnataka, India before (April-September 2017) and after (April-September 2018) implementation of NPY. Methods This was a cohort study using secondary data routinely collected by the national TB and HIV programmes. Results A total of 630 patients were initiated on ATT before NPY and 591 patients after NPY implementation. Of the latter, 464 (78.5%, 95% CI: 75.0%-81.8%) received at least one installment of cash incentive. Among those received, the median (inter-quartile range) duration between treatment initiation and receipt of first installment was 74 days (41-165) and only 16% received within the first month of treatment. In 117 (25.2%) patients, the first installment was received after declaration of their treatment outcome. Treatment success (cured and treatment completed) in 'before NPY' cohort was 69.2% (95% CI: 65.6%-72.8%), while it was 65.0% (95% CI: 61.2%-68.8%) in 'after NPY' cohort. On adjusted analysis using modified Poisson regression we did not find a statistically significant association between NPY and unsuccessful treatment outcomes (adjusted relative risk-1.1, 95% CI: 0.9-1.3). Conclusion Contrary to our hypothesis and previous evidence from systematic reviews, we did not find an association between NPY and improved treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amuje Rohit
- Department of Community Medicine, JJM Medical College, Davanagere, Karnataka, India
| | - Ajay M V Kumar
- Centre for Operational Research, International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union), Paris, France.,Centre for Operational Research, The Union South-East Asia Office, New Delhi, India.,Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University), Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Pruthu Thekkur
- Centre for Operational Research, International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union), Paris, France.,Centre for Operational Research, The Union South-East Asia Office, New Delhi, India
| | - Suresh G Shastri
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, State Tuberculosis Cell, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Ravi B N Kumar
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), New Delhi, India.,Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS), Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Abhay S Nirgude
- Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University), Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Mahendra M Reddy
- Department of Community Medicine, Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College (SDUMC), Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research (SDUAHER), Tamaka, Kolar, Karnataka, India
| | | | | | - P S Balu
- Department of Community Medicine, JJM Medical College, Davanagere, Karnataka, India
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Wen S, Yin J, Sun Q. Impacts of social support on the treatment outcomes of drug-resistant tuberculosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e036985. [PMID: 33033087 PMCID: PMC7545632 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-036985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness of social support on treatment success promotion or lost to follow-up (LTFU) reduction for patients with drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB). DESIGN We searched Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and Medline databases until 18 June 2020 for interventional or mixed-method studies which reported social support and treatment outcomes of DR-TB patients. Two independent reviewers extracted data and disagreements were resolved by consensus with a third reviewer. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to calculate the OR and 95% CI for the effects of social support on the improvement of treatment outcomes and the heterogeneity and risk of bias were assessed. SETTING Low-income and middle-income countries. PARTICIPANTS DR-TB patients. OUTCOMES Treatment success is defined as the combination of the cured and treatment completion, and LTFU is measured as treatment being interrupted for two consecutive months or more. RESULTS Among 173 articles selected for full-text review, 162 were excluded through independent review (kappa=0.87) and 10 studies enrolling 1621 DR-TB patients in eight countries were included for qualitative analysis. In these studies, the most frequently introduced social support was material support (10 studies), followed by informational (eight studies), emotional (seven studies) and companionship support (four studies). Seven studies that reported treatment outcomes in both intervention arm and control arm are qualified for meta-analysis. An encouraging improvement on treatment success rate (OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.80 to 3.69) was found when material support was integrated into social support packages and no heterogeneity was observed (I1 of 0%, Q test p=0.72). Reduction on LTFU rate (OR: 0.17; 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.55) was also noted when material support was available but substantial heterogeneity was found (I2 of 80%, Q test p=0.002). CONCLUSION Material support appeared feasible and effective to improve treatment success for DR-TB patients combined with other social support interventions. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42019140824.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqin Wen
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Shandong University Cheeloo College of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jia Yin
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Shandong University Cheeloo College of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qiang Sun
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Shandong University Cheeloo College of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Bulabula ANH, Nelson JA, Musafiri EM, Machekano R, Sam-Agudu NA, Diacon AH, Shah M, Creswell J, Theron G, Warren RM, Jacobson KR, Chirambiza JP, Kalumuna D, Bisimwa BC, Katoto PDMC, Kaswa MK, Birembano FM, Kitete L, Grobusch MP, Kashongwe ZM, Nachega JB. Prevalence, Predictors, and Successful Treatment Outcomes of Xpert MTB/RIF-identified Rifampicin-resistant Tuberculosis in Post-conflict Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, 2012-2017: A Retrospective Province-Wide Cohort Study. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 69:1278-1287. [PMID: 30759187 PMCID: PMC6763636 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy1105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) jeopardizes global TB control. The prevalence and predictors of Rifampicin-resistant (RR) TB, a proxy for MDR-TB, and the treatment outcomes with standard and shortened regimens have not been assessed in post-conflict regions, such as the South Kivu province in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). We aimed to fill this knowledge gap and to inform the DRC National TB Program. Methods of adults and children evaluated for pulmonary TB by sputum smear microscopy and Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert) from February 2012 to June 2017. Multivariable logistic regression, Kaplan–Meier estimates, and multivariable Cox regression were used to assess independent predictors of RR-TB and treatment failure/death. Results Of 1535 patients Xpert-positive for TB, 11% had RR-TB. Independent predictors of RR-TB were a positive sputum smear (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.63–3.59), retreatment of TB (aOR 4.92, 95% CI 2.31–10.45), and one or more prior TB episodes (aOR 1.77 per episode, 95% CI 1.01–3.10). Over 45% of RR-TB patients had no prior TB history or treatment. The median time from Xpert diagnosis to RR-TB treatment initiation was 12 days (interquartile range 3–60.2). Cures were achieved in 30/36 (83%) and 84/114 (74%) of patients on 9- vs 20/24-month MDR-TB regimens, respectively (P = .06). Predictors of treatment failure/death were the absence of directly observed therapy (DOT; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 2.77, 95% CI 1.2–6.66) and any serious adverse drug event (aHR 4.28, 95% CI 1.88–9.71). Conclusions Favorable RR-TB cure rates are achievable in this post-conflict setting with a high RR-TB prevalence. An expanded Xpert scale-up; the prompt initiation of shorter, safer, highly effective MDR-TB regimens; and treatment adherence support are critically needed to optimize outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- André N H Bulabula
- Department of Global Health, Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Unit for Infection Prevention and Control, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University.,Infection Control Africa Network, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jenna A Nelson
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pennsylvania
| | - Eric M Musafiri
- National Tuberculosis Program, Provincial Leprosy and Tuberculosis Coordination, South Kivu Branch, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Rhoderick Machekano
- Department of Global Health, Center for Evidence-Based Health Care, Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nadia A Sam-Agudu
- International Research Center of Excellence and Pediatric and Adolescent Human Immunodeficiency Virus Unit, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja.,Division of Epidemiology and Prevention, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore
| | - Andreas H Diacon
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Maunank Shah
- Center for Tuberculosis Research & Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jacob Creswell
- Stop TB Partnership, TB REACH Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Grant Theron
- South African Department of Science and Technology and the National Research Foundation, Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research and South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robin M Warren
- South African Department of Science and Technology and the National Research Foundation, Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research and South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Karen R Jacobson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston University School of Medicine, Massachusetts
| | - Jean-Paul Chirambiza
- National Tuberculosis Program, Provincial Leprosy and Tuberculosis Coordination, South Kivu Branch, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Dieudonné Kalumuna
- National Tuberculosis Program, Provincial Leprosy and Tuberculosis Coordination, South Kivu Branch, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Bertin C Bisimwa
- Biomedical Laboratory Professor A. Z. Lurhuma, Mycobacterium Unit, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Patrick D M C Katoto
- Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Laboratory of Pulmonology, The Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu
| | - Michel K Kaswa
- National Tuberculosis Program, Provincial Leprosy and Tuberculosis Coordination, South Kivu Branch, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Freddy M Birembano
- National Tuberculosis Program, Provincial Leprosy and Tuberculosis Coordination, South Kivu Branch, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Liliane Kitete
- The Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Challenge Tuberculosis Initiative, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Martin P Grobusch
- Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, The Academic Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Zacharie M Kashongwe
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jean B Nachega
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pennsylvania.,Department of Medicine and Center for Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Departments of Epidemiology and International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.,International Centre for Advanced Research and Training, Panzi, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
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Durao S, Visser ME, Ramokolo V, Oliveira JM, Schmidt BM, Balakrishna Y, Brand A, Kristjansson E, Schoonees A. Community-level interventions for improving access to food in low- and middle-income countries. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 8:CD011504. [PMID: 32761615 PMCID: PMC8890130 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011504.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND After decades of decline since 2005, the global prevalence of undernourishment reverted and since 2015 has increased to levels seen in 2010 to 2011. The prevalence is highest in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), especially Africa and Asia. Food insecurity and associated undernutrition detrimentally affect health and socioeconomic development in the short and long term, for individuals, including children, and societies. Physical and economic access to food is crucial to ensure food security. Community-level interventions could be important to increase access to food in LMICs. OBJECTIVES To determine the effects of community-level interventions that aim to improve access to nutritious food in LMICs, for both the whole community and for disadvantaged or at-risk individuals or groups within a community, such as infants, children and women; elderly, poor or unemployed people; or minority groups. SEARCH METHODS We searched for relevant studies in 16 electronic databases, including trial registries, from 1980 to September 2019, and updated the searches in six key databases in February 2020. We applied no language or publication status limits. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cluster randomised controlled trials (cRCTs) and prospective controlled studies (PCS). All population groups, adults and children, living in communities in LMICs exposed to community-level interventions aiming to improve food access were eligible for inclusion. We excluded studies that only included participants with specific diseases or conditions (e.g. severely malnourished children). Eligible interventions were broadly categorised into those that improved buying power (e.g. create income-generation opportunities, cash transfer schemes); addressed food prices (e.g. vouchers and subsidies); addressed infrastructure and transport that affected physical access to food outlets; addressed the social environment and provided social support (e.g. social support from family, neighbours or government). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently screened titles and abstracts, and full texts of potentially eligible records, against the inclusion criteria. Disagreements were resolved through discussion or arbitration by a third author, if necessary. For each included study, two authors independently extracted data and a third author arbitrated disagreements. However, the outcome data were extracted by one author and checked by a biostatistician. We assessed risk of bias for all studies using the Effective Practice and Organization of Care (EPOC) risk of bias tool for studies with a separate control group. We conducted meta-analyses if there was a minimum of two studies for interventions within the same category, reporting the same outcome measure and these were sufficiently homogeneous. Where we were able to meta-analyse, we used the random-effects model to incorporate any existing heterogeneity. Where we were unable to conduct meta-analyses, we synthesised using vote counting based on effect direction. MAIN RESULTS We included 59 studies, including 214 to 169,485 participants, and 300 to 124, 644 households, mostly from Africa and Latin America, addressing the following six intervention types (three studies assessed two different types of interventions). Interventions that improved buying power: Unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) (16 cRCTs, two RCTs, three PCSs): we found high-certainty evidence that UCTs improve food security and make little or no difference to cognitive function and development and low-certainty evidence that UCTs may increase dietary diversity and may reduce stunting. The evidence was very uncertain about the effects of UCTs on the proportion of household expenditure on food, and on wasting. Regarding adverse outcomes, evidence from one trial indicates that UCTs reduce the proportion of infants who are overweight. Conditional cash transfers (CCTs) (nine cRCTs, five PCSs): we found high-certainty evidence that CCTs result in little to no difference in the proportion of household expenditure on food and that they slightly improve cognitive function in children; moderate-certainty evidence that CCTs probably slightly improve dietary diversity and low-certainty evidence that they may make little to no difference to stunting or wasting. Evidence on adverse outcomes (two PCSs) shows that CCTs make no difference to the proportion of overweight children. Income generation interventions (six cRCTs, 11 PCSs): we found moderate-certainty evidence that income generation interventions probably make little or no difference to stunting or wasting; and low-certainty evidence that they may result in little to no difference to food security or that they may improve dietary diversity in children, but not for households. Interventions that addressed food prices: Food vouchers (three cRCTs, one RCT): we found moderate-certainty evidence that food vouchers probably reduce stunting; and low-certainty evidence that that they may improve dietary diversity slightly, and may result in little to no difference in wasting. Food and nutrition subsidies (one cRCT, three PCSs): we found low-certainty evidence that food and nutrition subsidies may improve dietary diversity among school children. The evidence is very uncertain about the effects on household expenditure on healthy foods as a proportion of total expenditure on food (very low-certainty evidence). Interventions that addressed the social environment: Social support interventions (one cRCT, one PCS): we found moderate-certainty evidence that community grants probably make little or no difference to wasting; low-certainty evidence that they may make little or no difference to stunting. The evidence is very uncertain about the effects of village savings and loans on food security and dietary diversity. None of the included studies addressed the intervention category of infrastructure changes. In addition, none of the studies reported on one of the primary outcomes of this review, namely prevalence of undernourishment. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The body of evidence indicates that UCTs can improve food security. Income generation interventions do not seem to make a difference for food security, but the evidence is unclear for the other interventions. CCTs, UCTs, interventions that help generate income, interventions that help minimise impact of food prices through food vouchers and subsidies can potentially improve dietary diversity. UCTs and food vouchers may have a potential impact on reducing stunting, but CCTs, income generation interventions or social environment interventions do not seem to make a difference on wasting or stunting. CCTs seem to positively impact cognitive function and development, but not UCTs, which may be due to school attendance, healthcare visits and other conditionalities associated with CCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solange Durao
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marianne E Visser
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Vundli Ramokolo
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Bey-Marrié Schmidt
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Yusentha Balakrishna
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Amanda Brand
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Anel Schoonees
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Durao S, Visser ME, Ramokolo V, Oliveira JM, Schmidt BM, Balakrishna Y, Brand A, Kristjansson E, Schoonees A. Community-level interventions for improving access to food in low- and middle-income countries. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 7:CD011504. [PMID: 32722849 PMCID: PMC7390433 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011504.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND After decades of decline since 2005, the global prevalence of undernourishment reverted and since 2015 has increased to levels seen in 2010 to 2011. The prevalence is highest in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), especially Africa and Asia. Food insecurity and associated undernutrition detrimentally affect health and socioeconomic development in the short and long term, for individuals, including children, and societies. Physical and economic access to food is crucial to ensure food security. Community-level interventions could be important to increase access to food in LMICs. OBJECTIVES To determine the effects of community-level interventions that aim to improve access to nutritious food in LMICs, for both the whole community and for disadvantaged or at-risk individuals or groups within a community, such as infants, children and women; elderly, poor or unemployed people; or minority groups. SEARCH METHODS We searched for relevant studies in 16 electronic databases, including trial registries, from 1980 to September 2019, and updated the searches in six key databases in February 2020. We applied no language or publication status limits. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cluster randomised controlled trials (cRCTs) and prospective controlled studies (PCS). All population groups, adults and children, living in communities in LMICs exposed to community-level interventions aiming to improve food access were eligible for inclusion. We excluded studies that only included participants with specific diseases or conditions (e.g. severely malnourished children). Eligible interventions were broadly categorised into those that improved buying power (e.g. create income-generation opportunities, cash transfer schemes); addressed food prices (e.g. vouchers and subsidies); addressed infrastructure and transport that affected physical access to food outlets; addressed the social environment and provided social support (e.g. social support from family, neighbours or government). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently screened titles and abstracts, and full texts of potentially eligible records, against the inclusion criteria. Disagreements were resolved through discussion or arbitration by a third author, if necessary. For each included study, two authors independently extracted data and a third author arbitrated disagreements. However, the outcome data were extracted by one author and checked by a biostatistician. We assessed risk of bias for all studies using the Effective Practice and Organization of Care (EPOC) risk of bias tool for studies with a separate control group. We conducted meta-analyses if there was a minimum of two studies for interventions within the same category, reporting the same outcome measure and these were sufficiently homogeneous. Where we were able to meta-analyse, we used the random-effects model to incorporate any existing heterogeneity. Where we were unable to conduct meta-analyses, we synthesised using vote counting based on effect direction. MAIN RESULTS We included 59 studies, including 214 to 169,485 participants, and 300 to 124, 644 households, mostly from Africa and Latin America, addressing the following six intervention types (three studies assessed two different types of interventions). Interventions that improved buying power: Unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) (16 cRCTs, two RCTs, three PCSs): we found high-certainty evidence that UCTs improve food security and make little or no difference to cognitive function and development and low-certainty evidence that UCTs may increase dietary diversity and may reduce stunting. The evidence was very uncertain about the effects of UCTs on the proportion of household expenditure on food, and on wasting. Regarding adverse outcomes, evidence from one trial indicates that UCTs reduce the proportion of infants who are overweight. Conditional cash transfers (CCTs) (nine cRCTs, five PCSs): we found high-certainty evidence that CCTs result in little to no difference in the proportion of household expenditure on food and that they slightly improve cognitive function in children; moderate-certainty evidence that CCTs probably slightly improve dietary diversity and low-certainty evidence that they may make little to no difference to stunting or wasting. Evidence on adverse outcomes (two PCSs) shows that CCTs make no difference to the proportion of overweight children. Income generation interventions (six cRCTs, 11 PCSs): we found moderate-certainty evidence that income generation interventions probably make little or no difference to stunting or wasting; and low-certainty evidence that they may result in little to no difference to food security or that they may improve dietary diversity in children, but not for households. Interventions that addressed food prices: Food vouchers (three cRCTs, one RCT): we found moderate-certainty evidence that food vouchers probably reduce stunting; and low-certainty evidence that that they may improve dietary diversity slightly, and may result in little to no difference in wasting. Food and nutrition subsidies (one cRCT, three PCSs): we found low-certainty evidence that food and nutrition subsidies may improve dietary diversity among school children. The evidence is very uncertain about the effects on household expenditure on healthy foods as a proportion of total expenditure on food (very low-certainty evidence). Interventions that addressed the social environment: Social support interventions (one cRCT, one PCS): we found moderate-certainty evidence that community grants probably make little or no difference to wasting; low-certainty evidence that they may make little or no difference to stunting. The evidence is very uncertain about the effects of village savings and loans on food security and dietary diversity. None of the included studies addressed the intervention category of infrastructure changes. In addition, none of the studies reported on one of the primary outcomes of this review, namely prevalence of undernourishment. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The body of evidence indicates that UCTs can improve food security. Income generation interventions do not seem to make a difference for food security, but the evidence is unclear for the other interventions. CCTs, UCTs, interventions that help generate income, interventions that help minimise impact of food prices through food vouchers and subsidies can potentially improve dietary diversity. UCTs and food vouchers may have a potential impact on reducing stunting, but CCTs, income generation interventions or social environment interventions do not seem to make a difference on wasting or stunting. CCTs seem to positively impact cognitive function and development, but not UCTs, which may be due to school attendance, healthcare visits and other conditionalities associated with CCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solange Durao
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marianne E Visser
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Vundli Ramokolo
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Bey-Marrié Schmidt
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Yusentha Balakrishna
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Amanda Brand
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Anel Schoonees
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Developing Feasible, Locally Appropriate Socioeconomic Support for TB-Affected Households in Nepal. Trop Med Infect Dis 2020; 5:tropicalmed5020098. [PMID: 32532101 PMCID: PMC7345977 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed5020098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB), the leading single infectious diseases killer globally, is driven by poverty. Conversely, having TB worsens impoverishment. During TB illness, lost income and out-of-pocket costs can become “catastrophic”, leading patients to abandon treatment, develop drug-resistance, and die. WHO’s 2015 End TB Strategy recommends eliminating catastrophic costs and providing socioeconomic support for TB-affected people. However, there is negligible evidence to guide the design and implementation of such socioeconomic support, especially in low-income, TB-endemic countries. A national, multi-sectoral workshop was held in Kathmandu, Nepal, on the 11th and 12th September 2019, to develop a shortlist of feasible, locally appropriate socioeconomic support interventions for TB-affected households in Nepal, a low-income country with significant TB burden. The workshop brought together key stakeholders in Nepal including from the Ministry of Health and Population, Department of Health Services, Provincial Health Directorate, Health Offices, National TB Program (NTP); and TB/Leprosy Officers, healthcare workers, community health volunteers, TB-affected people, and external development partners (EDP). During the workshop, participants reviewed current Nepal NTP data and strategy, discussed the preliminary results of a mixed-methods study of the socioeconomic determinants and consequences of TB in Nepal, described existing and potential socioeconomic interventions for TB-affected households in Nepal, and selected the most promising interventions for future randomized controlled trial evaluations in Nepal. This report describes the activities, outcomes, and recommendations from the workshop.
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Manyazewal T, Woldeamanuel Y, Holland DP, Fekadu A, Blumberg HM, Marconi VC. Electronic pillbox-enabled self-administered therapy versus standard directly observed therapy for tuberculosis medication adherence and treatment outcomes in Ethiopia (SELFTB): protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Trials 2020; 21:383. [PMID: 32370774 PMCID: PMC7201596 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-04324-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To address the multifaceted challenges associated with tuberculosis (TB) in-person directly observed therapy (DOT), the World Health Organization recently recommended that countries maximize the use of digital adherence technologies. Sub-Saharan Africa needs to investigate the effectiveness of such technologies in local contexts and proactively contribute to global decisions around patient-centered TB care. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of pillbox-enabled self-administered therapy (SAT) compared to standard DOT on adherence to TB medication and treatment outcomes in Ethiopia. It also aims to assess the usability, acceptability, and cost-effectiveness of the intervention from the patient and provider perspectives. METHODS This is a multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label, superiority, effectiveness-implementation hybrid, mixed-methods, two-arm trial. The study is designed to enroll 144 outpatients with new or previously treated, bacteriologically confirmed, drug-sensitive pulmonary TB who are eligible to start the standard 6-month first-line anti-TB regimen. Participants in the intervention arm (n = 72) will receive 15 days of HRZE-isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol-fixed-dose combination therapy in the evriMED500 medication event reminder monitor device for self-administration. When returned, providers will count any remaining tablets in the device, download the pill-taking data, and refill based on preset criteria. Participants can consult the provider in cases of illness or adverse events outside of scheduled visits. Providers will handle participants in the control arm (n = 72) according to the standard in-person DOT. Both arms will be followed up throughout the 2-month intensive phase. The primary outcomes will be medication adherence and sputum conversion. Adherence to medication will be calculated as the proportion of patients who missed doses in the intervention (pill count) versus DOT (direct observation) arms, confirmed further by IsoScreen urine isoniazid test and a self-report of adherence on eight-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale. Sputum conversion is defined as the proportion of patients with smear conversion following the intensive phase in intervention versus DOT arms, confirmed further by pre-post intensive phase BACTEC MGIT TB liquid culture. Pre-post treatment MGIT drug susceptibility testing will determine whether resistance to anti-TB drugs could have impacted culture conversion. Secondary outcomes will include other clinical outcomes (treatment not completed, death, or loss to follow-up), cost-effectiveness-individual and societal costs with quality-adjusted life years-and acceptability and usability of the intervention by patients and providers. DISCUSSION This study will be the first in Ethiopia, and of the first three in sub-Saharan Africa, to determine whether electronic pillbox-enabled SAT improves adherence to TB medication and treatment outcomes, all without affecting the inherent dignity and economic wellbeing of patients with TB. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04216420. Registered on 2 January 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsegahun Manyazewal
- Addis Ababa University, College of Health Sciences, Center for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa, P.O. Box 9086, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Yimtubezinash Woldeamanuel
- Addis Ababa University, College of Health Sciences, Center for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa, P.O. Box 9086, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - David P. Holland
- Emory University School of Medicine and Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322 USA
| | - Abebaw Fekadu
- Addis Ababa University, College of Health Sciences, Center for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa, P.O. Box 9086, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Henry M. Blumberg
- Emory University School of Medicine and Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322 USA
| | - Vincent C. Marconi
- Emory University School of Medicine and Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322 USA
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Walcott RL, Ingels JB, Corso PS, Zalwango S, Whalen CC, Sekandi JN. There's no such thing as a free TB diagnosis: Catastrophic TB costs in Urban Uganda. Glob Public Health 2020; 15:877-888. [PMID: 32027555 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1724313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Identifying and reducing TB-related costs is necessary for achieving the End TB Strategy's goal that no family is burdened with catastrophic costs. This study explores costs during the pre-diagnosis period and assesses the potential for using coping costs as a proxy indicator for catastrophic costs when comprehensive surveys are not feasible. Detailed interviews about TB-related costs and productivity losses were conducted with 196 pulmonary TB patients in Kampala, Uganda. The threshold for catastrophic costs was defined as 20% of household income. Multivariable regression analyses were used to assess the influence of patient characteristics on economic burden, and the positive predictive value (PPV) of coping costs was estimated. Over 40% of patients experienced catastrophic costs, with average (median) pre-diagnosis costs making up 30.6% (14.1%) of household income. Low-income status (AOR = 2.91, 95% CI = 1.29, 6.72), hospitalisation (AOR = 8.66, 95% CI = 2.60; 39.54), and coping costs (AOR = 3.84, 95% CI = 1.81; 8.40) were significantly associated with the experience of catastrophic costs. The PPV of coping costs as an indicator for catastrophic costs was estimated to be 73% (95% CI = 58%, 84%). TB patients endure a substantial economic burden during the pre-diagnosis period, and identifying households that experience coping costs may be a useful proxy measure for identifying catastrophic costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Walcott
- Evans School of Public Policy & Governance, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Justin B Ingels
- College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Phaedra S Corso
- Office of Research, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Sarah Zalwango
- Directorate of Public Health and Environment, Kampala Capital City Authority, Kampala, Uganda
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Nirgude AS, Kumar AMV, Collins T, Naik PR, Parmar M, Tao L, Akshaya KM, Raghuveer P, Yatnatti SK, Nagendra N, Nagaraja SB, Habeena S, Mn B, Rao R, Shastri S. 'I am on treatment since 5 months but I have not received any money': coverage, delays and implementation challenges of 'Direct Benefit Transfer' for tuberculosis patients - a mixed-methods study from South India. Glob Health Action 2019; 12:1633725. [PMID: 31328678 PMCID: PMC6713952 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2019.1633725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In March 2018, the Government of India launched a direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme to provide nutritional support for all tuberculosis (TB) patients in line with END TB strategy. Here, the money (@INR 500 [~8 USD] per month) is deposited electronically into the bank accounts of beneficiaries. To avail the benefit, patients are to be notified in NIKSHAY (web-based notification portal of India’s national TB programme) and provide bank account details. Once these details are entered into NIKSHAY, checked and approved by the TB programme officials, it is sent to the public financial management system (PFMS) portal for further processing and payment. Objectives: To assess the coverage and implementation barriers of DBT among TB patients notified during April–June 2018 and residing in Dakshina Kannada, a district in South India. Methods: This was a convergent mixed-methods study involving cohort analysis of patient data from NIKSHAY and thematic analysis of in-depth interviews of providers and patients. Results: Of 417 patients, 208 (49.9%) received approvals for payment by PFMS and 119 (28.7%) got paid by 1 December 2018 (censor date). Reasons for not receiving DBT included (i) not having a bank account especially among migrant labourers in urban areas, (ii) refusal to avail DBT by rich patients and those with confidentiality concerns, (iii) lack of knowledge and (iv) perception that money was too little to meet the needs. The median (IQR) delay from diagnosis to payment was 101 (67–173) days. Delays were related to the complexity of processes requiring multiple layers of approval and paper-based documentation which overburdened the staff, bulk processing once-a-month and technological challenges (poor connectivity and issues related to NIKSHAY and PFMS portals). Conclusion: DBT coverage was low and there were substantial delays. Implementation barriers need to be addressed urgently to improve uptake and efficiency. The TB programme has begun to take action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhay Subhashrao Nirgude
- a Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University) , Mangaluru , India
| | - Ajay M V Kumar
- a Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University) , Mangaluru , India.,b Department of Research, International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) , Paris , France.,c Department of Research, The Union South-East Asia Office , New Delhi , India
| | - Timire Collins
- d Center for Operations Research, International Union Against Tuberculosis and LungDisease , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Poonam Ramesh Naik
- a Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University) , Mangaluru , India
| | - Malik Parmar
- e Communicable Disease Section (Tuberculosis), WHO Country Office for India , New Delhi , India
| | - Li Tao
- f National Center for Tuberculosis Control and Prevention, China CDC , Beijing , China
| | - Kibballi Madhukeshwar Akshaya
- a Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University) , Mangaluru , India
| | - Pracheth Raghuveer
- a Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University) , Mangaluru , India
| | - Santosh K Yatnatti
- a Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University) , Mangaluru , India
| | - Navya Nagendra
- a Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University) , Mangaluru , India
| | - Sharath B Nagaraja
- g Department of Community Medicine, ESIC Medical College and PGIMSR , Bengaluru , India
| | - Shaira Habeena
- a Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed To Be University) , Mangaluru , India
| | - Badarudeen Mn
- h Health and Family Welfare Department , Mangaluru , India
| | - Ramkrishna Rao
- h Health and Family Welfare Department , Mangaluru , India
| | - Suresh Shastri
- i Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society and State Tuberculosis Cell , Bangalore , Karnataka , India
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Gurung SC, Dixit K, Rai B, Caws M, Paudel PR, Dhital R, Acharya S, Budhathoki G, Malla D, Levy JW, van Rest J, Lönnroth K, Viney K, Ramsay A, Wingfield T, Basnyat B, Thapa A, Squire B, Wang D, Mishra G, Shah K, Shrestha A, de Siqueira-Filha NT. The role of active case finding in reducing patient incurred catastrophic costs for tuberculosis in Nepal. Infect Dis Poverty 2019; 8:99. [PMID: 31791412 PMCID: PMC6889665 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-019-0603-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization (WHO) End TB Strategy has established a milestone to reduce the number of tuberculosis (TB)- affected households facing catastrophic costs to zero by 2020. The role of active case finding (ACF) in reducing patient costs has not been determined globally. This study therefore aimed to compare costs incurred by TB patients diagnosed through ACF and passive case finding (PCF), and to determine the prevalence and intensity of patient-incurred catastrophic costs in Nepal. METHODS The study was conducted in two districts of Nepal: Bardiya and Pyuthan (Province No. 5) between June and August 2018. One hundred patients were included in this study in a 1:1 ratio (PCF: ACF, 25 consecutive ACF and 25 consecutive PCF patients in each district). The WHO TB patient costing tool was applied to collect information from patients or a member of their family regarding indirect and direct medical and non-medical costs. Catastrophic costs were calculated based on the proportion of patients with total costs exceeding 20% of their annual household income. The intensity of catastrophic costs was calculated using the positive overshoot method. The chi-square and Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare proportions and costs. Meanwhile, the Mantel Haenszel test was performed to assess the association between catastrophic costs and type of diagnosis. RESULTS Ninety-nine patients were interviewed (50 ACF and 49 PCF). Patients diagnosed through ACF incurred lower costs during the pre-treatment period (direct medical: USD 14 vs USD 32, P = 0.001; direct non-medical: USD 3 vs USD 10, P = 0.004; indirect, time loss: USD 4 vs USD 13, P < 0.001). The cost of the pre-treatment and intensive phases combined was also lower for direct medical (USD 15 vs USD 34, P = 0.002) and non-medical (USD 30 vs USD 54, P = 0.022) costs among ACF patients. The prevalence of catastrophic direct costs was lower for ACF patients for all thresholds. A lower intensity of catastrophic costs was also documented for ACF patients, although the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS ACF can reduce patient-incurred costs substantially, contributing to the End TB Strategy target. Other synergistic policies, such as social protection, will also need to be implemented to reduce catastrophic costs to zero among TB-affected households.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bhola Rai
- Birat Nepal Medical Trust, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Maxine Caws
- Birat Nepal Medical Trust, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jens W. Levy
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Job van Rest
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Knut Lönnroth
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kerri Viney
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | | | - Tom Wingfield
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Buddha Basnyat
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Anil Thapa
- National Tuberculosis Centre, Bhaktapur, Nepal
| | - Bertie Squire
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Duolao Wang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Gokul Mishra
- Birat Nepal Medical Trust, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | - Noemia Teixeira de Siqueira-Filha
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Institute for Health Technology Assessment, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Balinda IG, Sugrue DD, Ivers LC. More Than Malnutrition: A Review of the Relationship Between Food Insecurity and Tuberculosis. Open Forum Infect Dis 2019; 6:ofz102. [PMID: 30949541 PMCID: PMC6441779 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofz102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite a significant reduction in tuberculosis (TB) mortality over the past decade, TB remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Food insecurity—through pathways such as malnutrition, mental health impact, and high-risk health behaviors—affects the risk of TB disease, treatment failure, and mortality. We searched the literature for studies reporting on the links between food insecurity and TB. In contrast to the well-documented interactions between food insecurity and HIV/AIDS, we found that the association between food insecurity and TB remains largely understudied—this is especially true with regard to non-nutritional correlations. Mental health and behavioral linkages between TB and food insecurity deserve further attention. An improved understanding of the pathways through which food insecurity impacts TB is crucial to inform evidence-based integration of interventions such as psychological counseling, psychiatric care, harm reduction programs, and efforts to address social determinants of disease within current TB programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingabire G Balinda
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Louise C Ivers
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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J Carter D, Daniel R, Torrens AW, N Sanchez M, Maciel ELN, Bartholomay P, Barreira DC, Rasella D, Barreto ML, Rodrigues LC, Boccia D. The impact of a cash transfer programme on tuberculosis treatment success rate: a quasi-experimental study in Brazil. BMJ Glob Health 2019; 4:e001029. [PMID: 30740248 PMCID: PMC6347926 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2018-001029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence suggests that social protection policies such as Brazil’s Bolsa Família Programme (BFP), a governmental conditional cash transfer, may play a role in tuberculosis (TB) elimination. However, study limitations hamper conclusions. This paper uses a quasi-experimental approach to more rigorously evaluate the effect of BFP on TB treatment success rate. Methods Propensity scores were estimated from a complete-case logistic regression using covariates from a linked data set, including the Brazil’s TB notification system (SINAN), linked to the national registry of those in poverty (CadUnico) and the BFP payroll. Results The average effect of treatment on the treated was estimated as the difference in TB treatment success rate between matched groups (ie, the control and exposed patients, n=2167). Patients with TB receiving BFP showed a treatment success rate of 10.58 percentage points higher (95% CI 4.39 to 16.77) than patients with TB not receiving BFP. This association was robust to sensitivity analyses. Conclusions This study further confirms a positive relationship between the provision of conditional cash transfers and TB treatment success rate. Further research is needed to understand how to enhance access to social protection so to optimise public health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Carter
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rhian Daniel
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ana W Torrens
- Tropical Medicine Department, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Draurio C Barreira
- National Tuberculosis Programme/Ministry of Health of Brazil, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Davide Rasella
- Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Muniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Mauricio L Barreto
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil.,Centro de Integração de Dados de Conhecimentos para Saúde (CIDACS), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Laura C Rodrigues
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,Centro de Integração de Dados de Conhecimentos para Saúde (CIDACS), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Delia Boccia
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Bothamley G. What next? Basic research, new treatments and a patient-centred approach in controlling tuberculosis. Tuberculosis (Edinb) 2018. [DOI: 10.1183/2312508x.10026118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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