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Badacho AS, Mahomed OH. Facilitators and barriers to integration of noncommunicable diseases with HIV care at primary health care in Ethiopia: a qualitative analysis using CFIR. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1247121. [PMID: 38145060 PMCID: PMC10748758 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1247121] [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: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The rise in non-communicable diseases (NCD), such as hypertension and diabetes among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH), has increased the demand for integrated care due to multiple chronic care needs. However, there is a dearth of evidence on contextual factors implementing integrated hypertension and diabetes care with HIV care. This study aimed to identify facilitators and barriers that could affect the integration of hypertension and diabetes with HIV care at primary health care in Ethiopia. Methods Five primary health facilities from five districts of the Wolaita zone of South Ethiopia were included in the qualitative study. Fifteen key informant interviews were conducted with healthcare providers and managers from the zonal, district, and facility levels from October to November 2022. Data collection and analysis were guided by a consolidated framework of implementation research (CFIR). Results Ten CFIR constructs were found to influence the integration. Perceived benefit of integration to patients, healthcare providers, and organization; perceived possibilities of integration implementation; availability of NCD guidelines and strategies; a supportive policy of decentralization and integration; perceived leaders and healthcare provider commitment were found to be facilitators. Perceived increased cost, insufficient attention to NCD care needs, inadequate number of trained professionals, inadequate equipment and apparatus such as blood pressure measurement, glucometers, strips, and NCD drugs, inadequate allocation of budget and weak health financing system and poor culture of data capturing and reporting were identified as barriers to integration. Conclusion It is important to address contextual barriers through innovative implementation science solutions to address multiple chronic care needs of PLWH by implementing integrated hypertension and diabetes with HIV care in primary healthcare. Training and task shifting, pairing experienced professionals, and strengthening the health care financing system to implement evidence-based integration of hypertension and diabetes are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abebe Sorsa Badacho
- School Public Health, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, Ethiopia
- School of Nursing and Public Health, Public Health Medicine Discipline, Durban, South Africa
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ozayr Haroon Mahomed
- School of Nursing and Public Health, Public Health Medicine Discipline, Durban, South Africa
- Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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Guthrie L, Mkandawire J, Stevenson E, Bonya S, Sherwin B, Kasumba M, Hong L, Ioffe Y, Lum S. Lessons in Cultural Adaptations: Translation of European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Cervical Cancer Module From English to Chichewa in Malawi. J Surg Res 2023; 292:150-157. [PMID: 37619500 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.07.044] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To complete a culturally appropriate translation of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire Cervical Cancer module (QLQ-CX24) from English to Chichewa (one of the official languages of Malawi) in preparation for postsurgical outcomes research in rural Malawian cervical cancer patients. METHODS Following the EORTC translation procedure manual, two distinct forward translations from English were reconciled into a preliminary Chichewa translation, followed by two distinct back-translations to English. The English back-translation was reconciled and the translation report sent for discussion and proofreading by EORTC; this was followed by pilot testing. All translators were physicians fluent in English and Chichewa. RESULTS Of 24 questions in QLQ-CX24, three had prior translations available; all three required revision to clarify tense or wording. Three discussion exchanges with EORTC refined the translation and ensured faithfulness to the original English meaning; proofreaders contributed minor changes. Pilot testing was completed on 10 female patients (three with cervical cancer, four suspicious cervical lesions, and three screening only). Three patients were illiterate. During pilot testing, translation of question 46 (Q46) was misunderstood as referring to vaginal discharge instead of feeling "feminine". The remaining questions were understood, with minor feedback for six questions. Final revision of Q46 yielded a phrase describing "feminine" as "appearance or activities as a woman". Concepts comparable to "feminine" were absent in the Chichewa language/regional Malawian culture. The final revision of Q46 was pilot-tested on five patients (three illiterate) and found acceptable. CONCLUSIONS Translation of the QLQ-CX24 module was completed successfully and revealed absence of the modern concept of femininity in Chichewa language and regional Malawian culture. Care should be taken when creating and translating healthcare-related documents for surgical research to ensure broad applicability across cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel Guthrie
- Department of Surgery, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, California.
| | | | - Emily Stevenson
- Department of Surgery, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, California
| | - Sharon Bonya
- Department of Surgery, Malamulo Adventist Hospital, Malawi, Africa
| | - Brent Sherwin
- Department of Surgery, Malamulo Adventist Hospital, Malawi, Africa
| | - Moses Kasumba
- Department of Surgery, Malamulo Adventist Hospital, Malawi, Africa
| | - Linda Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, California
| | - Yevgeniya Ioffe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, California
| | - Sharon Lum
- Department of Surgery, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, California
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Chipanta D, Kapambwe S, Nyondo-Mipando AL, Pascoe M, Amo-Agyei S, Bohlius J, Estill J, Keiser O. Socioeconomic inequalities in cervical precancer screening among women in Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe: analysis of Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment surveys. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067948. [PMID: 37339830 PMCID: PMC10314495 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067948] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined age, residence, education and wealth inequalities and their combinations on cervical precancer screening probabilities for women. We hypothesised that inequalities in screening favoured women who were older, lived in urban areas, were more educated and wealthier. DESIGN Cross-sectional study using Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment data. SETTING Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Differences in screening rates were analysed using multivariable logistic regressions, controlling for age, residence, education and wealth. Inequalities in screening probability were estimated using marginal effects models. PARTICIPANTS Women aged 25-49 years, reporting screening. OUTCOME MEASURES Self-reported screening rates, and their inequalities in percentage points, with differences of 20%+ defined as high inequality, 5%-20% as medium, 0%-5% as low. RESULTS The sample size of participants ranged from 5882 in Ethiopia to 9186 in Tanzania. The screening rates were low in the surveyed countries, ranging from 3.5% (95% CI 3.1% to 4.0%) in Rwanda to 17.1% (95% CI 15.8% to 18.5%) and 17.4% (95% CI 16.1% to 18.8%) in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Inequalities in screening rates were low based on covariates. Combining the inequalities led to significant inequalities in screening probabilities between women living in rural areas aged 25-34 years, with a primary education level, from the lowest wealth quintile, and women living in urban areas aged 35-49 years, with the highest education level, from the highest wealth quintile, ranging from 4.4% in Rwanda to 44.6% in Zimbabwe. CONCLUSIONS Cervical precancer screening rates were inequitable and low. No country surveyed achieved one-third of the WHO's target of screening 70% of eligible women by 2030. Combining inequalities led to high inequalities, preventing women who were younger, lived in rural areas, were uneducated, and from the lowest wealth quintile from screening. Governments should include and monitor equity in their cervical precancer screening programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Chipanta
- ERA, UNAIDS, Geneve, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneve, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Silas Amo-Agyei
- Department of Economics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Julia Bohlius
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, University of Bern, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Janne Estill
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Olivia Keiser
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneve, Switzerland
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Adler AJ, Drown L, Boudreaux C, Coates MM, Marx A, Akala O, Waqanivalu T, Xu H, Bukhman G. Understanding integrated service delivery: a scoping review of models for noncommunicable disease and mental health interventions in low-and-middle income countries. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:99. [PMID: 36717832 PMCID: PMC9885613 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09072-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health conditions represent a growing proportion of disease burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). While past efforts have identified interventions to be delivered across health system levels to address this burden, the challenge remains of how to deliver heterogenous interventions in resource-constrained settings. One possible solution is the Integration of interventions within existing care delivery models. This study reviews and summarizes published literature on models of integrated NCD and mental health care in LMICs. METHODS We searched Pubmed, African Index Medicus and reference lists to conduct a scoping review of studies describing an integrated model of NCD or neuropsychiatric conditions (NPs) implemented in a LMIC. Conditions of interest were grouped into common and severe NCDs and NPs. We identified domains of interest and types of service integration, conducting a narrative synthesis of study types. Studies were screened and characteristics were extracted for all relevant studies. Results are reported using PRISMA-ScR. RESULTS Our search yielded 5004 studies, we included 219 models of integration from 188 studies. Most studies were conducted in middle-income countries, with the majority in sub-Saharan Africa. Health services were offered across all health system levels, with most models implemented at health centers. Common NCDs (including type 2 diabetes and hypertension) were most frequently addressed by these models, followed by common NPs (including depression and anxiety). Conditions and/or services were often integrated into existing primary healthcare, HIV, maternal and child health programs. Services provided for conditions of interest varied and frequency of these services differed across health system levels. Many models demonstrated decentralization of services to lower health system levels, and task shifting to lower cadre providers. CONCLUSIONS While integrated service design is a promising method to achieve ambitious global goals, little is known about what works, when, and why. This review characterizing care integration programs is an initial step toward developing a structured study of care integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alma J. Adler
- grid.62560.370000 0004 0378 8294Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA USA
| | - Laura Drown
- grid.62560.370000 0004 0378 8294Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA USA
| | - Chantelle Boudreaux
- grid.62560.370000 0004 0378 8294Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA USA
| | - Matthew M. Coates
- grid.62560.370000 0004 0378 8294Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA USA
| | - Andrew Marx
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XProgram in Global Noncommunicable Disease and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 641 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA USA
| | - Oyetayo Akala
- grid.3575.40000000121633745Noncommunicable Diseases Department, World Health Organization, 20, Avenue Appia-1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Temo Waqanivalu
- grid.3575.40000000121633745Noncommunicable Diseases Department, World Health Organization, 20, Avenue Appia-1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hongyi Xu
- grid.3575.40000000121633745Noncommunicable Diseases Department, World Health Organization, 20, Avenue Appia-1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gene Bukhman
- grid.62560.370000 0004 0378 8294Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA USA
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Shayo EH, Kivuyo S, Seeley J, Bukenya D, Karoli P, Mfinanga SG, Jaffar S, Van Hout MC. The acceptability of integrated healthcare services for HIV and non-communicable diseases: experiences from patients and healthcare workers in Tanzania. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:655. [PMID: 35578274 PMCID: PMC9112557 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08065-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In sub-Saharan Africa, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has risen sharply amidst a high burden of communicable diseases. An integrated approach to HIV and NCD care offers the potential of strengthening disease control programmes. We used qualitative methods to explore patients' and care-providers' experiences and perspectives on the acceptability of integrated care for HIV-infection, diabetes mellitus (DM), and hypertension (HT) in Tanzania. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted in selected health facilities in Dar es Salaam and Coastal regions, which had started to provide integrated care and management for HIV, DM, and HT using a single research clinic for patients with one or more of these conditions. In-depth interviews were held with patients and healthcare providers at three time points: At enrolment (prior to the patient receiving integrated care, at the mid-line and at the study end). A minimum of 16 patients and 12 healthcare providers were sampled for each time point. Observation was also carried out in the respective clinics during pre- and mid-line phases. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA) underpinned the structure and interpretation of the combined qualitative and observational data sets. RESULTS Patients and healthcare providers revealed a positive attitude towards the integrated care delivery model at the mid-line and at study end-time points. High acceptability was related to increased exposure to service integration in terms of satisfaction with the clinic setup, seating arrangements and the provision of medical care services. Satisfaction also centred on the patients' freedom to move from one service point to another, and to discuss the services and their own health status amongst themselves. Adherence to medication and scheduling of clinic appointments appeared central to the patient-provider relationship as an aspect in the provision of quality services. Multi-condition health education, patient time and cost-saving, and detection of undiagnosed disease conditions emerged as benefits. On the other hand, a few challenges included long waiting times and limited privacy in lower and periphery health facilities due to infrastructural limitations. CONCLUSION The study reveals a continued high level of acceptability of the integrated care model among study participants in Tanzania. This calls for evaluation in a larger and a comparative study. Nevertheless, much more concerted efforts are necessary to address structural challenges and maximise privacy and confidentiality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth H. Shayo
- grid.416716.30000 0004 0367 5636National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sokoine Kivuyo
- grid.416716.30000 0004 0367 5636National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Janet Seeley
- grid.415861.f0000 0004 1790 6116MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XDepartment of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Dominic Bukenya
- grid.415861.f0000 0004 1790 6116MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Peter Karoli
- grid.416716.30000 0004 0367 5636National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sayoki Godfrey Mfinanga
- grid.416716.30000 0004 0367 5636National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- grid.48004.380000 0004 1936 9764Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Shabbar Jaffar
- grid.48004.380000 0004 1936 9764Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Hill J, Seguin R, Manda A, Chikasema M, Vaz O, Li Q, Yang H, Gopal S, Smith JS. Prevalence of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine (TCAM) among adult cancer patients in Malawi. Cancer Causes Control 2022; 33:1047-1057. [PMID: 35419718 PMCID: PMC10266506 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-022-01563-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study is to document the prevalence of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine (TCAM) use by adult cancer patients at a national teaching hospital in Malawi. We aim to document the products/therapies used, the reason for use, as well as patient-reported satisfaction with TCAM practitioners and modalities. METHODS We conducted investigator-administered interviews with adult cancer patients presenting to the Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) Cancer Clinic in Lilongwe, Malawi between January and July 2018. The KCH is a national teaching hospital in the capital of Lilongwe, which serves patients with cancer from the northern half of Malawi. Descriptive statistics were used to describe TCAM use and logistic regression was applied to identify predictors of TCAM. RESULTS A total of 263 participants completed the survey, of which 70% (n = 183) were female and average age was 45 (SD 14) years old. The prevalence of overall TCAM use was 84% (n = 222), and 60% (n = 157) of participants reported combining TCAM with conventional cancer treatment. The majority of patients used TCAM to directly treat their cancer versus for symptom management. Patients reported using faith-based healing (64%, n = 168), herbal medicine (56%, n = 148), diet change (46%, n = 120), and vitamins/minerals (23%, n = 61). Participants reported the highest satisfaction for physicians among practitioners and diet change for modalities. Female gender was found to be a predictor of TCAM with conventional treatment use, no other significant predictors were observed. CONCLUSION There is a high prevalence of TCAM use among an adult population with cancer in Malawi, and a wide variety in the TCAM modalities used among patients. Additional studies are needed to identify risks and benefits of TCAM use to assist with policy and public health, patient safety, and holistically address the global burden of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Hill
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, 101 Manning Dr., Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Program on Integrative Medicine, University of North Carolina, 101 Manning Dr., Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Ryan Seguin
- Malawi Cancer Consortium and Regional Center of Research Excellence for Non-Communicable Diseases, Tidziwe Centre, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Agness Manda
- Malawi Cancer Consortium and Regional Center of Research Excellence for Non-Communicable Diseases, Tidziwe Centre, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Maria Chikasema
- Malawi Cancer Consortium and Regional Center of Research Excellence for Non-Communicable Diseases, Tidziwe Centre, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Olivia Vaz
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, 101 Manning Dr., Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Quefeng Li
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, 101 Manning Dr., Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Hannan Yang
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, 101 Manning Dr., Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Satish Gopal
- Center for Global Health, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9609 Medical Center Dr, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA
| | - Jennifer S Smith
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, 101 Manning Dr., Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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7
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Hully A, Mallah R, Villa G, Gilleece Y. Integrating services to improve quality of care for women living with HIV: A global systematic review. HIV Med 2022; 23:310-318. [PMID: 35212105 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13258] [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: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim was to review and analyse evidence on the impact of service integration on quality of care for women living with HIV. METHODS Evidence search in September 2020 using the PICO format yielded 60 potential papers. Inclusion required evidence of measurement of an outcome associated with service delivery within a system showing clear integration of services exclusively for women living with HIV. In all, 60 papers were screened, 27 were excluded at the abstract stage, and 17 were excluded after full text review, leaving 20 final papers included in this review. RESULTS Three papers measured the impact of integrating sexual health services and all showed some measure of improved quality of care. Outcome measures considered in this paper were impact on uptake, prevention, user satisfaction, user knowledge and cost-effectiveness. Ten papers studied the impact of integrating family planning, with eight papers suggesting positive outcomes. Eleven papers studied integrated cervical cytology services with 10 able to demonstrate positive impact. Two papers assessed integrating menopause services and two looked at integration of psychological and social services. The most described positive impact was improved user knowledge and satisfaction. There were two main methods of integration demonstrated, described as 'upskilling' of staff and 'guest services'. CONCLUSIONS Integrating services can create opportunities to improve the quality of patient-centred care whilst promoting the sexual, reproductive and human rights of women living with HIV, with an emphasis on designing services to suit local contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Hully
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Rana Mallah
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
- Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Giovanni Villa
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
- Department of Global Health & Infection, Brighton & Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Yvonne Gilleece
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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8
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Association of HIV status and treatment characteristics with VIA screening outcomes in Malawi: A retrospective analysis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262904. [PMID: 35077501 PMCID: PMC8789172 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262904] [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: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Although evidence from high-resource settings indicates that women with HIV are at higher risk of acquiring high-risk HPV and developing cervical cancer, data from cervical cancer “screen and treat” programs using visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) in lower-income countries have found mixed evidence about the association between HIV status and screening outcomes. Moreover, there is limited evidence regarding the effect of HIV-related characteristics (e.g., viral suppression, treatment factors) on screening outcomes in these high HIV burden settings.
Methods
This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between HIV status, HIV treatment, and viral suppression with cervical cancer screening outcomes. Data from a “screen and treat” program based at a large, free antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic in Lilongwe, Malawi was retrospectively analyzed to determine rates of abnormal VIA results and suspected cancer, and coverage of same-day treatment. Multivariate logistic regression assessed associations between screening outcomes and HIV status, and among women living with HIV, viremia, ART treatment duration and BMI.
Results
Of 1405 women receiving first-time VIA screening between 2017–2019, 13 (0.9%) had suspected cancer and 68 (4.8%) had pre-cancerous lesions, of whom 50 (73.5%) received same-day lesion treatment. There was no significant association found between HIV status and screening outcomes. Among HIV+ women, abnormal VIA was positively associated with viral load ≥ 1000 copies/mL (aOR 3.02, 95% CI: 1.22, 7.49) and negatively associated with ART treatment duration (aOR 0.88 per additional year, 95% CI: 0.80, 0.98).
Conclusion
In this population of women living with HIV with high rates of ART coverage and viral suppression, HIV status was not significantly associated with abnormal cervical cancer screening results. We hypothesize that ART treatment and viral suppression may mitigate the elevated risk of cervical cancer for women living with HIV, and we encourage further study on this relationship in high HIV burden settings.
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Neibart SS, Smith TA, Fang JH, Anderson T, Kulkarni A, Tsui J, Hudson SV, Peck GL, Hanna JS, Beer NL, Einstein MH. Assessment of Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Infrastructure in Belize. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 7:1251-1259. [PMID: 34351814 PMCID: PMC8389877 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Belize has one of the highest cervical cancer burdens among Latin American and Caribbean countries, despite the implementation of national policies to increase access to prevention and treatment services. This study evaluates the policies, infrastructure, and workforce of the cervical cancer management system in Belize to inform capacity building efforts. METHODS In 2018, health facility assessments were conducted across all six districts of Belize at the national pathology facility and 12 public facilities identified as critical to cervical cancer control. Human and infrastructure resource availability and existing policies related to cervical cancer screening and treatment services were assessed through a structured instrument. RESULTS The public cervical cancer screening workforce in Belize consists of 75 primary care nurses and physicians—one per 1,076 screening-eligible women, with 44% conducting rural outreach. All districts have at least one screening facility, but 50% perform screening services only once per week. Colposcopy and loop electrical excision procedures are available in three and four districts, respectively; radical hysterectomy and chemotherapy are available in two districts; and radiation therapy is unavailable. Of essential pathology equipment, 38.5% were present and functional, 23% were present but nonfunctional, and 38.5% were unavailable. Additionally, 35% of supplies were unavailable at the time of assessment, and 75% were unavailable at least once in the 12 months before assessment. CONCLUSION Public-sector cervical cancer management services differ among districts of Belize, with tertiary service availability concentrated in the largest district. Screening, outreach, and pathology are limited mostly by resource availability. This study characterizes the current capacity of services in Belize and pinpoints health system components for future investment and capacity-building efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane S Neibart
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Tiffany A Smith
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Jennifer H Fang
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Taylor Anderson
- University of Queensland Ochsner Clinical School, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Abha Kulkarni
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Jennifer Tsui
- University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Shawna V Hudson
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Gregory L Peck
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ.,Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ
| | - Joseph S Hanna
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ
| | | | - Mark H Einstein
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ.,Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
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10
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Namale G, Mayanja Y, Kamacooko O, Bagiire D, Ssali A, Seeley J, Newton R, Kamali A. Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) positivity among female sex workers: a cross-sectional study highlighting one-year experiences in early detection of pre-cancerous and cancerous cervical lesions in Kampala, Uganda. Infect Agent Cancer 2021; 16:31. [PMID: 33975633 PMCID: PMC8114699 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-021-00373-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although cervical cancer is preventable, most women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) do not receive routine screening and few treatment options exist. Female Sex Workers (FSWs) are among the Ugandan female population at highest risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV and human papilloma viruses (HPV), the cause of cervical cancer. We report one-year experiences of visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) positivity among FSWs in the early detection of pre-cancerous and cancerous cervical lesions in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS Between June 2014 and July 2015, we enrolled FSWs into a cross-sectional study at a research clinic. The women were screened using the VIA method (application of 3-5 % acetic acid to the cervix). All VIA positive women were referred to a tertiary hospital for colposcopy, biopsy, and immediate treatment (if indicated) at the same visit according to national guidelines. Data on socio-demographic, sexual behaviour, sexual reproductive health and clinical characteristics were collected. We used logistic regression to identify factors associated with VIA positivity. RESULTS Of 842 women assessed for eligibility, 719 (85 %) of median age 30 (IQR 26, 35) were screened, and 40 (6 %) women were VIA positive. Of the 24 histology specimens analysed, 6 showed inflammation, only 1 showed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 1, 13 women showed CIN2/3, while 4 women already had invasive cervical cancer. The overall prevalence of HIV was 43 %, of whom only 35 % were receiving ART. In the age-adjusted analysis, VIA positivity was more likely among women who reported having > 100 life-time partners (aOR = 3.34, 95 %CI: 1.38-8.12), and HIV positive women (aOR = 4.55; 95 %CI: 2.12-9.84). CONCLUSIONS We found a relatively low proportion of VIA positivity in this population. The experience from our program implies that the VIA results are poorly reproducible even among a category of trained professional health workers. VIA positivity was more likely among women with a high number of sexual partners and HIV infection. Interventions for improving cervical cancer screening should be recommended as part of HIV care for FSWs to reduce the disease burden in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gertrude Namale
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Yunia Mayanja
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Onesmus Kamacooko
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Daniel Bagiire
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Agnes Ssali
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Janet Seeley
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.,London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Newton
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.,University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Anatoli Kamali
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
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11
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Kakani P, Kojima N, Banda BA, Lewis S, Suri R, Chibwana F, Chivwara M, Sullivan L, Chimombo M, Sigauke H, Tymchuk C, Kahn D. Increasing cervical cancer screening at a non-government medical center in Lilongwe, Malawi. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 32:933-939. [PMID: 33910402 DOI: 10.1177/09564624211007260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Malawi has the highest incidence of and mortality rate due to cervical cancer in the world. This is largely because of inadequate screening and high rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, which greatly increases cervical cancer risk. We describe the implementation of a quality improvement program to increase use of cervical cancer screening at a non-government medical center in Lilongwe, Malawi. The intervention, developed and launched from March to August 2017, aimed to promote education among patients and clinicians about the importance of cervical cancer screening and improve accessibility of screening information within medical records. Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) was used to screen for cervical cancer. Women with a positive VIA were offered treatment using thermocoagulation. The number of VIA screenings conducted in 2016 (pre-intervention), 2017 (intervention), and 2018 (post-intervention) was 125, 234 and 456, respectively. Of the 815 women screened during this period, 36 (4.4%) had a VIA-positive result and 12 (1.5%) had suspect cancer. Of the VIA-positive women, 13 (36.1%) received same-day treatment with thermocoagulation. An interrupted time series regression revealed that there was a sustained increase in monthly screenings between the pre- and post-intervention period (β = 30.84; p = 0.006; 95% CI 9.72-51.97), suggesting that the intervention likely was effective in increasing cervical cancer screening. Our results demonstrate that focusing on developing sustainable solutions and improving system processes, without additional equipment or funding, significantly increased the number of women screened and should be considered in other settings to enhance cervical cancer prevention services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Kakani
- 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Noah Kojima
- Department of Internal Medicine, 12222University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Samuel Lewis
- 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rajat Suri
- Department of Internal Medicine, 12222University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Lauren Sullivan
- Department of Internal Medicine, 12222University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Chris Tymchuk
- Department of Internal Medicine, 12222University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Kahn
- Department of Internal Medicine, 12222University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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12
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Lee F, Bula A, Chapola J, Mapanje C, Phiri B, Kamtuwange N, Tsidya M, Tang J, Chinula L. Women's experiences in a community-based screen-and-treat cervical cancer prevention program in rural Malawi: a qualitative study. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:428. [PMID: 33882885 PMCID: PMC8061221 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08109-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malawi has the world's highest cervical cancer incidence and mortality due to high rate of HIV coupled with inadequate screening and treatment services. The country's cervical cancer control program uses visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and cryotherapy, but screening is largely limited by poor access to facilities, high cost of cryotherapy gas, and high loss-to-follow-up. To overcome these limitations, we implemented a community-based screen-and-treat pilot program with VIA and thermocoagulation. Through a qualitative study, we explore the experiences of women who underwent this community-based pilot screening program. METHODS We implemented our pilot program in rural Malawi and conducted an exploratory qualitative sub-study. We conducted in-depth interviews with women who were treated with thermocoagulation during the program. We used semi-structured interviews to explore screen-and-treat experience, acceptability of the program and attitudes towards self-sampling for HPV testing as an alternative screening method. Content analysis was conducted using NVIVO v12. RESULTS Between July - August 2017, 408 participants eligible for screening underwent VIA screening. Thirty participants had VIA positive results, of whom 28 underwent same day thermocoagulation. We interviewed 17 of the 28 women who received thermocoagulation. Thematic saturation was reached at 17 interviews. All participants reported an overall positive experience with the community-based screen-and-treat program. Common themes were appreciation for bringing screening directly to their villages, surprise at the lack of discomfort, and the benefits of access to same day treatment immediately following abnormal screening. Negative experiences were rare and included discomfort during speculum exam, long duration of screening and challenges with complying with postprocedural abstinence. Most participants felt that utilizing self-collected HPV testing could be acceptable for screening in their community. CONCLUSIONS Our exploratory qualitative sub-study demonstrated that the community-based screen-and-treat with VIA and thermocoagulation was widely accepted. Participants valued the accessible, timely, and painless thermocoagulation treatment and reported minimal side effects. Future considerations for reaching rural women can include community-based follow-up, cervical cancer education for male partners and self-sampling for HPV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Lee
- University of North Carolina (UNC) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chapel Hill, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jennifer Tang
- University of North Carolina (UNC) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chapel Hill, USA
- UNC-Project Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Lameck Chinula
- University of North Carolina (UNC) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chapel Hill, USA
- UNC-Project Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe, Malawi
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13
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Talama GC, Shaw M, Maloya J, Chihana T, Nazimera L, Wroe EB, Kachimanga C. Improving uptake of cervical cancer screening services for women living with HIV and attending chronic care services in rural Malawi. BMJ Open Qual 2020; 9:bmjoq-2019-000892. [PMID: 32928783 PMCID: PMC7490955 DOI: 10.1136/bmjoq-2019-000892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Malawi has the second highest age-standardised incidence rate and the highest mortality rate of cervical cancer in the world. Though the prevalence of HIV is currently 11.7% for Malawian women of reproductive age, cervical cancer screening rates remain low. To address this issue, we integrated cervical cancer screening into a dual HIV and non-communicable disease clinic at a rural district hospital in Neno, Malawi. The project was implemented between January 2017 and March 2018 using the Plan-Do-Study-Act model of quality improvement (QI). At baseline (January to December 2016), only 13 women living with HIV were screened for cervical cancer. One year after implementation of the QI project, 73% (n=547) of women aged 25 to 49 years living with HIV enrolled in HIV care were screened for cervical cancer, with 85.3% of these receiving the screening test for the first time. The number of women living with HIV accessing cervical cancer services increased almost 10 times (from four per month to 39 per month, p<0.001). Key enablers in our QI process included: strong mentorship, regular provision of cervical cancer health talks throughout the hospital, nationally accredited cervical cancer prevention training for all providers, consistent community engagement, continuous monitoring and evaluation, and direct provision of resources to strengthen gaps in the public system. This practical experience integrating cervical cancer screening into routine HIV care may provide valuable lessons for scale-up in rural Malawi.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mairead Shaw
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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14
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Moucheraud C, Kawale P, Kafwafwa S, Bastani R, Hoffman RM. Health care workers' experiences with implementation of "screen and treat" for cervical cancer prevention in Malawi: A qualitative study. Implement Sci Commun 2020; 1:112. [PMID: 33317633 PMCID: PMC7734769 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-020-00097-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity in low- and middle-income countries, despite the availability of effective prevention approaches. "Screen and treat" (a single-visit strategy to identify and remove abnormal cervical cells) is the recommended secondary prevention approach in low-resource settings, but there has been relatively scarce robust implementation science evidence on barriers and facilitators to providing "screen and treat" from the provider perspective, or about thermocoagulation as a lesion removal technique. METHODS Informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), we conducted interviews with ten experienced "screen and treat" providers in Malawi. We asked questions based on the CFIR Guide, used the CFIR Guide codebook for a descriptive analysis in NVivo, and added recommended modifications for studies in low-income settings. RESULTS Seven CFIR constructs were identified as positively influencing implementation, and six as negatively influencing implementation. The two strong positive influences were the relative advantage of thermocoagulation versus cryotherapy (Innovation Characteristics) and respondents' knowledge and beliefs about providing "screen and treat" (Individual Characteristics). The two strong negative influences were the availability of ongoing refresher trainings to stay up-to-date on skills (Inner Setting, Implementation Climate) and insufficient resources (staffing, infrastructure, supplies) to provide "screen and treat" to all women who need it (Inner Setting, Readiness for Implementation). Weak positive factors included perceived scalability and access to knowledge/information, as well as compatibility, leadership engagement, and team characteristics, but these latter three were mixed in valence. Weak negative influences were structural characteristics and donor priorities; and mixed but weakly negative influences were relative priority and engaging clients. Cross-cutting themes included the importance of broad buy-in (including different cadres of health workers and leadership at the facility and in the government) and the opportunities and challenges of offering integrated care (screening plus other services). CONCLUSIONS Although "screen and treat" is viewed as effective and important, many implementation barriers remain. Our findings suggest that implementation strategies will need to be multi-level, include a diverse set of stakeholders, and explicitly address both screening and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrina Moucheraud
- University of California Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Paul Kawale
- African Institute for Development Policy, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Roshan Bastani
- University of California Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Risa M. Hoffman
- University of California Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA USA
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15
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Pittalis C, Panteli E, Schouten E, Magongwa I, Gajewski J. Breast and cervical cancer screening services in Malawi: a systematic review. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:1101. [PMID: 33183270 PMCID: PMC7663900 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-07610-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To identify and to assess factors enhancing or hindering the delivery of breast and cervical cancer screening services in Malawi with regard to accessibility, uptake, acceptability and effectiveness. Methods Systematic review of published scientific evidence. A search of six bibliographic databases and grey literature was executed to identify relevant studies conducted in Malawi in the English language, with no time or study design restrictions. Data extraction was conducted in Excel and evidence synthesis followed a thematic analysis approach to identify and compare emerging themes. Results One hundred and one unique records were retrieved and 6 studies were selected for final inclusion in the review. Multiple factors affect breast and cervical cancer service delivery in Malawi, operating at three interlinked levels. At the patient level, lack of knowledge and awareness of the disease, location, poor screening environment and perceived quality of care may act as deterrent to participation in screening; at the health facility level, services are affected by the availability of resources and delivery modalities; and at the healthcare system level, inadequate funding and staffing (distribution, supervision, retention), and lack of appropriate monitoring and guidelines may have a negative impact on services. Convenience of screening, in terms of accessibility (location, opening times) and integration with other health services (e.g. reproductive or HIV services), was found to have a positive effect on service uptake. Building awareness of cancer and related services, and offering quality screening (dedicated room, privacy, staff professionalism etc.) are significant determinants of patient satisfaction. Conclusions Capitalising on these lessons is essential to strengthen breast and cervical cancer service delivery in Malawi, to increase early detection and to improve survival of women affected by the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pittalis
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaux Lane House, Lower Mercer Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Emily Panteli
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaux Lane House, Lower Mercer Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Erik Schouten
- Management Sciences for Health, P/BAG 398, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Irene Magongwa
- Management Sciences for Health, P/BAG 398, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Jakub Gajewski
- Institute of Global Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaux Lane House, Lower Mercer Street, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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16
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Cubie HA, Campbell C. Cervical cancer screening - The challenges of complete pathways of care in low-income countries: Focus on Malawi. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 16:1745506520914804. [PMID: 32364058 PMCID: PMC7225784 DOI: 10.1177/1745506520914804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, with approximately 580,000 new diagnoses in 2018. Approximately, 90% of deaths from this disease occur in low- and middle-income countries, especially in areas of high HIV prevalence, and largely due to limited prevention and screening opportunities and scarce treatment options. In this overview, we describe the opportunities and challenges faced in many low- and middle-income countries in delivery of cervical cancer detection, treatment and complete pathways of care. In particular, drawing on our experience and that of colleagues, we describe cervical screening and pathways of care provision in Malawi, as a case study of a low-resource country with high incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer. Screening methods such as cytology – although widely used in high-income countries – have limited relevance in many low-resource settings. The World Health Organization recommends screening using human papillomavirus testing wherever possible; however, although human papillomavirus primary testing is more sensitive and detects precancers and cancers earlier than cytology, there are currently costs, infrastructure considerations and specificity issues that limit its use in low- and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization accepts the alternative screening approach of visual inspection with acetic acid as part of ‘screen and treat’ programmes as a simple and inexpensive test that can be undertaken by trained health workers and hence give wider screening coverage; however, subjectivity and variability in interpretation of findings between providers raise issues of false positives and overtreatment. Cryotherapy using either nitrous oxide or carbon dioxide is an established treatment for precancerous lesions within ‘screen and treat’ programmes; more recently, thermal ablation has been recognized as suitable to low-resource settings due to lightweight equipment, short treatment times, and hand-held battery-operated and solar-powered models. For larger lesions and cancers, complete clinical pathways (including loop excision, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and palliative care) are required for optimal care of women. However, provision of each of these components of cancer control is often limited due to limited infrastructure and lack of trained personnel. Hence, global initiatives to reduce cervical mortality need to adopt a holistic approach to health systems strengthening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather A Cubie
- Global Health Academy and Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Christine Campbell
- Global Health Academy and Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Ruan F, Wang YF, Chai Y. Diagnostic Values of miR-21, miR-124, and M-CSF in Patients With Early Cervical Cancer. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2020; 19:1533033820914983. [PMID: 32356483 PMCID: PMC7225794 DOI: 10.1177/1533033820914983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic values of microRNA-21, microRNA-124, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor in patients with cervical cancer. METHODS A total of 68 patients with cervical cancer admitted in our hospital (cervical cancer group) and 57 healthy individuals undergoing physical examinations (healthy group, also control group) were enrolled in this study. The expression of serum microRNA-21 and microRNA-124 was detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The expression of serum macrophage colony-stimulating factor was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The diagnostic values of microRNA-21, microRNA-124, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor in cervical cancer were analyzed. The correlations between the expression of microRNA-21 and microRNA-124 with that of macrophage colony-stimulating factor were also analyzed. RESULTS Compared to those in the healthy group, patients in the cervical cancer group had a higher expression of microRNA-21 and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (P < .05) but lower expression of microRNA-124 (P < .05). The expression of microRNA-21, microRNA-124, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor in the patients correlated with the tumor size, tumor node metastasis (TNM) staging, tumor differentiation, and the presence or absence of lymph node metastasis and human papillomavirus infection (P < .05). According to the receiver operating characteristic curves, the area under the curve of microRNA-21 for diagnosing cervical cancer was 0.723, the specificity was 58.82%, and the sensitivity was 91.23%. The area under the curve of microRNA-124 was 0.766, the specificity was 94.12%, and the sensitivity was 57.89%. The area under the curve of macrophage colony-stimulating factor was 0.754, the specificity was 64.71%, and the sensitivity was 87.72%. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the expression of microRNA-21 positively correlated with that of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (r = 0.6825, P < .001), and the expression of microRNA-124 negatively correlated with that of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (r = -0.6476, P < .001). CONCLUSION MicroRNA-21, microRNA-124, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor may be involved in the development and progression of cervical cancer. The detection of serum microRNA-21, microRNA-124, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor has good sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Ruan
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical College, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yun-fei Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical College, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yun Chai
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical College, Jining, Shandong, China
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