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Kante AM, Youssoufa LO, Mounkaila A, Mahamadou Y, Bamogo A, Jiwani SS, Hazel E, Maïga A, Munos MK, Walton S, Tam Y, Walker N, Akseer N, Jue Wong H, Moussa M, Dagobi AE, Jessani NS, Amouzou A. Challenges in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in Niger: an in-depth case study. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e011732. [PMID: 38770808 PMCID: PMC11085984 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-011732] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent modelled estimates suggest that Niger made progress in maternal mortality since 2000. However, neonatal mortality has not declined since 2012 and maternal mortality estimates were based on limited data. We researched the drivers of progress and challenges. METHODS We reviewed two decades of health policies, analysed mortality trends from United Nations data and six national household surveys between 1998 and 2021 and assessed coverage and inequalities of maternal and newborn health indicators. Quality of care was evaluated from health facility surveys in 2015 and 2019 and emergency obstetric assessments in 2011 and 2017. We determined the impact of intervention coverage on maternal and neonatal lives saved between 2000 and 2020. We interviewed 31 key informants to understand the factors underpinning policy implementation. RESULTS Empirical maternal mortality ratio declined from 709 to 520 per 100 000 live births during 2000-2011, while neonatal mortality rate declined from 46 to 23 per 1000 live births during 2000-2012 then increased to 43 in 2018. Inequalities in neonatal mortality were reduced across socioeconomic and demographic strata. Key maternal and newborn health indicators improved over 2000-2012, except for caesarean sections, although the overall levels were low. Interventions delivered during childbirth saved most maternal and newborn lives. Progress came from health centre expansion, emergency care and the 2006 fee exemptions policy. During the past decade, challenges included expansion of emergency care, continued high fertility, security issues, financing and health workforce. Social determinants saw minimal change. CONCLUSIONS Niger reduced maternal and neonatal mortality during 2000-2012, but progress has stalled. Further reductions require strategies targeting comprehensive care, referrals, quality of care, fertility reduction, social determinants and improved security nationwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almamy Malick Kante
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Aida Mounkaila
- Direction des Statistiques Sanitaires, Ministère de la Santé Publique, Niamey, Niger
| | - Yahaha Mahamadou
- Direction des Statistiques Sanitaires, Ministère de la Santé Publique, Niamey, Niger
| | - Assanatou Bamogo
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Safia S Jiwani
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elizabeth Hazel
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Abdoulaye Maïga
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Melinda Kay Munos
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shelley Walton
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yvonne Tam
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Neff Walker
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nadia Akseer
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Heather Jue Wong
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Nasreen S Jessani
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Knowledge, Impact and Policy Unit, Institute of Development Studies, Brighton, UK
| | - Agbessi Amouzou
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Tsadik M, Legesse AY, Teka H, Abraha HE, Fisseha G, Ebrahim MM, Berhe B, Hadush MY, Gebrekurstos G, Ayele B, Tsegay H, Gebremeskel T, Gebremariam T, Hagos T, Gebreegziabher A, Muoze K, Mulugeta A, Gebregziabher M, Godefay H. Neonatal mortality during the war in Tigray: a cross-sectional community-based study. Lancet Glob Health 2024; 12:e868-e874. [PMID: 38614634 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(24)00057-3] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal mortality is among the key national and international indicators of health services. The global Sustainable Development Goal target for neonatal mortality is fewer than 12 deaths per 1000 livebirths, by 2030. Neonatal mortality estimates in the 2019 Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey found 25·7 deaths per 1000 livebirths. Subnational surveys specific to Tigray, Ethiopia, reported a neonatal mortality lifetime prevalence of 7·13 deaths. Another government report from the Tigray region estimated a neonatal mortality rate of ten deaths per 1000 livebirths in 2020. Despite the numerous interventions in Ethiopia's Tigray region to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, the war has disrupted most health services, but the effect on neonatal mortality is unknown. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the magnitude and causes of neonatal mortality during the war in Tigray. METHODS A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted in Tigray to evaluate neonatal mortality that occurred from Nov 4, 2020, to May 30, 2022. Among the 31 districts, 121 tabias were selected using computer-generated random sampling, and 189 087 households were visited. We adopted a validated WHO 2022 verbal autopsy tool, and data were collected using an interviewer-administrated Open Data Kit. In the absence of the mother, other respondents to the verbal autopsy interview were household members aged 18 years and older who provided care during the final illness that led to death. FINDINGS 29 761 livebirths were recorded during the screening of 189 087 households. Verbal autopsy was administered for 1158 households with neonatal deaths. 317 neonates were stillborn, and 841 neonatal deaths were recorded with the WHO 2022 verbal autopsy tool from Nov 4, 2020, to May 30, 2022, in 31 districts. The neonatal mortality rate was 28·2 deaths per 1000 livebirths. 476 (57%) of the 841 neonatal deaths occurred at home and 296 (35%) in health facilities. A high rate of neonatal deaths was reported in rural districts (80% [673 of 841]) compared with urban districts (20% [168 of 841]), and 663 (79%) deaths occurred during the early neonatal period, in the first week of life (0-6 days). The leading causes of neonatal death were asphyxia (35% [291 of 834]), prematurity (30% [247 of 834]), and infection (12% [104 of 834]). Asphyxia (37% [246 of 663]) and infection (28% [50 of 178]) were the leading causes of death for early and late neonatal period deaths, respectively. INTERPRETATION Neonatal mortality in Tigray is high due to preventable causes. An urgent response is needed to prevent the high number of neonatal deaths associated with the depleted health resources and services resulting from the war, and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal on neonatal mortality. FUNDING UNICEF and United Nations Fund for Population Activities. TRANSLATION For the Tigrigna translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mache Tsadik
- Department of Reproductive Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia.
| | - Awol Yemane Legesse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Hale Teka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Hiluf Ebuy Abraha
- Hospital Quality, Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia; Department of Epidemiology, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Girmatsion Fisseha
- Department of Reproductive Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | | | - Bereket Berhe
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Martha Yemane Hadush
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | | | - Brhane Ayele
- Tigray Health Research Institute, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Haile Tsegay
- Maternal and Child Health, Tigray Regional Health Bureau, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfit Gebremeskel
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Tsega Gebremariam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Tigist Hagos
- Department of Reproductive Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Abraha Gebreegziabher
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Kibrom Muoze
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Afewerk Mulugeta
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Mulugeta Gebregziabher
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Hagos Godefay
- Maternal and Child Health, Tigray Regional Health Bureau, Tigray, Ethiopia
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Muhammad A, Rizvee MSH, Khan U, Khan H, Bachlany A, Baloch B, Shafiq Y. Uncovering the causes and socio-demographic constructs of stillbirths and neonatal deaths in an urban slum of Karachi. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298120. [PMID: 38578771 PMCID: PMC10997060 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neonatal deaths and stillbirths are significant public health concerns in Pakistan, with an estimated stillbirth rate of 43 per 1,000 births and a neonatal mortality rate of 46 deaths per 1,000 live births. Limited access to obstetric care, poor health seeking behaviors and lack of quality healthcare are the leading root causes for stillbirths and neonatal deaths. Rehri Goth, a coastal slum in Karachi, faces even greater challenges due to extreme poverty, and inadequate infrastructure. This study aims to investigate the causes and pathways leading to stillbirths and neonatal deaths in Rehri Goth to develop effective maternal and child health interventions. METHODS A mixed-method cohort study was nested with the implementation of large maternal, neonatal and child health program, captured all stillbirths and neonatal death during the period of May 2014 till June 2018. The Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) tool (WHO 2016) was used to collect primary data from all death events to determine the causes as well as the pathways. Interviews were conducted both retrospectively and prospectively with mothers and caregivers. Two trained physicians reviewed the VASA form and the medical records (if available) and coded the cause of death blinded to each other. Descriptive analysis was used to categorize stillbirth and neonatal mortality data into high- and low-mortality clusters, followed by chi-square tests to explore associations between categories, and concluded with a qualitative analysis. RESULTS Out of 421 events captured, complete VASA interviews were conducted for 317 cases. The leading causes of antepartum stillbirths were pregnancy-induced hypertension (22.4%) and maternal infections (13.4%), while obstructed labor was the primary cause of intrapartum stillbirths (38.3%). Neonatal deaths were primarily caused by perinatal asphyxia (36.1%) and preterm birth complications (27.8%). The qualitative analysis on a subset of 40 death events showed that health system (62.5%) and community factors (37.5%) contributing to adverse outcomes, such as delayed referrals, poor triage systems, suboptimal quality of care, and delayed care-seeking behaviors. CONCLUSION The study provides an opportunity to understand the causes of stillbirths and neonatal deaths in one of the impoverished slums of Karachi. The data segregation by clusters as well as triangulation with qualitative analysis highlight the needs of evidence-based strategies for maternal and child health interventions in disadvantaged communities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Uzma Khan
- VITAL Pakistan Trust, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Hina Khan
- VITAL Pakistan Trust, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Benazir Baloch
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Yasir Shafiq
- Centre of Excellence for Trauma and Emergencies (CETE) & Community Health Science, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
- CRIMEDIM–Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid, and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
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Siddiqui MB, Ng CW, Low WY, Abid K. Validation of CHERG'S Verbal Autopsy-Social Autopsy (VASA) tool for ascertaining determinants and causes of under-five child mortality in Pakistan. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278149. [PMID: 38109305 PMCID: PMC10727362 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278149] [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: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority (40%) of the world's under-five mortality burden is concentrated in nations like Nigeria (16.5%), India (16%), Pakistan (8%), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (6%), where an undetermined number of under-five deaths go unrecorded. In low-resource settings throughout the world, the Verbal Autopsy-Social Autopsy (VASA) technique may assist assess under-five mortality estimates, assigning medical and social causes of death, and identifying relevant determinants. Uncertainty regarding missing data in high-burden nations like Pakistan necessitates a valid and reliable VASA instrument. This is the first study to validate Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group-CHERG's VASA tool globally. In Pakistan, data from such a valid and reliable tool is vital for policy. This paper reports on the VASA tool in Karachi, Pakistan. Validity and reliability of the CHERG VASA tool were tested using face, content, discriminant validation, and reliability tests on one hundred randomly selected mothers who had recently experienced an under-five child death event. Data were computed on SPSS (version-21) and R software. Testing revealed high Item-content Validity Index (I-CVI) (>81.43%); high Cronbach's Alpha (0.843); the accuracy of between 75-100% of the discriminants classifying births to live and stillbirths; and I-CVI (>82.07% and 88.98% respectively) with high accuracy (92% and 97% respectively) for assigning biological and social causes of child deaths, respectively. The CHERG VASA questionnaire was found relevant to the conceptual framework and valid in Pakistan. This valid tool can assign accurate medical and non-medical causes of child mortality cases occurring in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Bilal Siddiqui
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chiu Wan Ng
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wah Yun Low
- Dean’s Office, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Khadijah Abid
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Life Sciences, Research Villa, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology (SZABIST), Karachi, Pakistan
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Kalter HD, Koffi AK, Perin J, Kamwe MA, Black RE. Maternal interventions to decrease stillbirths and neonatal mortality in Tanzania: evidence from the 2017-18 cross-sectional Tanzania verbal and social autopsy study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:849. [PMID: 38082404 PMCID: PMC10714492 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06099-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reduction of Tanzania's neonatal mortality rate has lagged behind that for all under-fives, and perinatal mortality has remained stagnant over the past two decades. We conducted a national verbal and social autopsy (VASA) study to estimate the causes and social determinants of stillbirths and neonatal deaths with the aim of identifying relevant health care and social interventions. METHODS A VASA interview was conducted of all stillbirths and neonatal deaths in the prior 5 years identified by the 2015-16 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey. We evaluated associations of maternal complications with antepartum and intrapartum stillbirth and leading causes of neonatal death; conducted descriptive analyses of antenatal (ANC) and delivery care and mothers' careseeking for complications; and developed logistic regression models to examine factors associated with delivery place and mode. RESULTS There were 204 stillbirths, with 185 able to be classified as antepartum (88 [47.5%]) or intrapartum (97 [52.5%]), and 228 neonatal deaths. Women with an intrapartum stillbirth were 6.5% (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.065, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.002, 1.132) more likely to have a C-section for every additional hour before delivery after reaching the birth attendant. Antepartum hemorrhage (APH), maternal anemia, and premature rupture of membranes (PROM) were significantly positively associated with early neonatal mortality due to preterm delivery, intrapartum-related events and serious infection, respectively. While half to two-thirds of mothers made four or more ANC visits (ANC4+), a third or fewer received quality ANC (Q-ANC). Women with a complication were more likely to deliver at hospital only if they received Q-ANC (neonates: aOR = 4.5, 95% CI 1.6, 12.3) or ANC4+ (stillbirths: aOR = 11.8, 95% CI 3.6, 38.0). Nevertheless, urban residence was the strongest predictor of hospital delivery. CONCLUSIONS While Q-ANC and ANC4 + boosted hospital delivery among women with a complication, attendance was low and the quality of care is critical. Quality improvement efforts in urban and rural areas should focus on early detection and management of APH, maternal anemia, PROM, and prolonged labor, and on newborn resuscitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry D Kalter
- Department of International Health, Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America.
| | - Alain K Koffi
- Department of International Health, Health Systems, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Jamie Perin
- Department of International Health, Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Mlemba A Kamwe
- National Bureau of Statistics, Dodoma, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Robert E Black
- Department of International Health, Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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Kalter HD, Setel PW, Deviany PE, Nugraheni SA, Sumarmi S, Weaver EH, Latief K, Rianty T, Nandiaty F, Anggondowati T, Achadi EL. Modified Pathway to Survival highlights importance of rapid access to quality institutional delivery care to decrease neonatal mortality in Serang and Jember districts, Java, Indonesia. J Glob Health 2023; 13:04020. [PMID: 37054399 PMCID: PMC10101726 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.13.04020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Three-quarters of births in Indonesia occur in a health facility, yet the neonatal mortality rate remains high at 15 per 1000 live births. The Pathway to Survival (P-to-S) framework of steps needed to return sick neonates and young children to health focuses on caregiver recognition of and care-seeking for severe illness. In view of increased institutional delivery in Indonesia and other low- and middle-income countries, a modified P-to-S is needed to assess the role of maternal complications in neonatal survival. Methods We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional verbal and social autopsy study of all neonatal deaths from June through December 2018, identified by a proven listing method in two districts of Java, Indonesia. We examined care-seeking for maternal complications, delivery place, and place and timing of neonatal illness onset and death. Results The fatal illnesses of 189/259 (73%) neonates began in their delivery facility (DF), 114/189 (60%) of whom died before discharge. Mothers whose neonate's illness started at their delivery hospital and lower-level DF were more than six times (odds ratio (OR) = 6.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 3.4-12.5) and twice (OR = 2.0; 95% CI = 1.01-4.02) as likely to experience a maternal complication as those whose neonates fell fatally ill in the community, and illness started earlier (mean = 0.3 vs 3.6 days; P < 0.001) and death came sooner (3.5 vs 5.3 days; P = 0.06) to neonates whose illness started at any DF. Despite going to the same number of providers/facilities, women with a labour and delivery (L/D) complication who sought care from at least one other provider or facility on route to their DF took longer than those without a complication to reach their DF (median = 3.3 vs 1.3 hours; P = 0.01). Conclusions Neonates' fatal illness onset in their DF was strongly associated with maternal complications. Mothers with a L/D complication experienced delays in reaching their DF, and nearly half the neonatal deaths occurred in association with a complication, suggesting that mothers with complications first seeking care at a hospital providing emergency maternal and neonatal care might have prevented some deaths. A modified P-to-S highlights the importance of rapid access to quality institutional delivery care in settings where many births occur in facilities and/or there is good care-seeking for L/D complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry D Kalter
- Institute for International Programs, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Poppy E Deviany
- Center for Family Welfare, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Sri A Nugraheni
- Faculty of Public Health, Diponegoro University, Semarang, Indonesia
| | - Sri Sumarmi
- Faculty of Public Health, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Emily H Weaver
- Carolina Population Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kamaluddin Latief
- Center for Family Welfare, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Tika Rianty
- Center for Family Welfare, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Fitri Nandiaty
- Center for Family Welfare, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Trisari Anggondowati
- Center for Family Welfare, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Endang L Achadi
- Center for Family Welfare, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
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Blasini AW, Waiswa P, Wolski A, Wanduru P, Finkbeiner C, Bakari A, Amutuhaire L, Moyer CA. Comparing quantitative and qualitative verbal and social autopsy tools: does a qualitative supplement improve understanding of the social determinants of under-five deaths in the slums of Kampala, Uganda? JOURNAL OF GLOBAL HEALTH REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.29392/001c.38743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding biological causes of death and sociocultural factors influencing outcomes is critical to reducing mortality in low-resource settings. Verbal and Social Autopsy instruments (VASAs) query family members about events leading to an individual’s death, resulting in quantitative, categorical data. This study sought to determine the value of a supplemental in-depth qualitative interview (VASA-QUAL). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in two slum neighborhoods in Kampala, Uganda, among families who lost a child under five within the preceding six months. A trained, local researcher conducted the quantitative VASA and then administered the VASA-QUAL to family members. Quantitative data were analyzed using Stata V16.0; qualitative data were transcribed into English and analyzed using NVivo V12.0. The biomedical cause of death was determined using a panel of physicians to code verbal autopsy items. Quantitative VASA variables were compared with qualitative variables from the VASA-QUAL using a rubric of indicators derived from the Pathways to Survival framework. Kappa statistics and percent agreement were calculated to compare quantitative and qualitative data. Three coders independently rated whether qualitative data provided additional information that improved understanding of the cause of death. Results 48 VASAs were conducted (child age range: 1 month to 52 months). Agreement on key indicators ranged from 81.2% (place of death) to 93.8% (recognition of illness), with Kappa coefficients ranging from -0.038 to 0.368. The qualitative component added or clarified information about pediatric illness and care-seeking across all indicators, including recognition of illness (94.0%), care-seeking decisions (79.0%), whether home care was provided (73.0%), and choice of outside care (85.0%). Qualitative interviews frequently included symptoms missing or denied in the quantitative VASA and clarified the chronological order of symptoms. Many qualitative interviews described complicated mechanisms of decision-making not captured in the quantitative survey. Both agreement across data types and whether meaningful information was added by the qualitative data varied by cause of death, although our sample size limited our ability to conduct statistical analysis in this regard. Conclusions Supplementing quantitative VASA tools with an in-depth VASA-QUAL interview provided important additional information, but not consistently across indicators or causes of death. Despite challenges associated with feasibility, supplemental qualitative interviews may be an important tool for understanding the complexity of events leading up to childhood deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Waiswa
- Health Policy, Planning, and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health; Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute
| | | | - Phillip Wanduru
- Health Policy, Planning, and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health; Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute
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Wammanda RD, Quinley J, Eluwa GI, Odejimi A, Kunnuji M, Weiss W, Jalingo IB, Ayokunle OT, Nte AR, King R, Franca-Koh AC. Social autopsy analysis of the determinants of neonatal and under-five mortalities in Nigeria, 2013-2018. JOURNAL OF GLOBAL HEALTH REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.29392/001c.37466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nigeria suffers from one of the world’s highest child mortality rates, with about 900,000 deaths in a single year, despite being classified as a middle-income country. Over the past few years, substantial efforts have been made to reduce child mortality, with under-five mortality declining by 31.6% between 1990 and 2018. However, this decline is slower than needed to reduce child mortality significantly. This study presents the social autopsy component of the 2019 verbal and social autopsy (VASA) survey to provide an in-depth understanding of the social determinants of under-five mortality in Nigeria. Methods The study was a cross-sectional inquiry into the social determinants of neonatal and 1-59 months child deaths from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) weighted to represent the Nigerian population. The social autopsy survey asked about maternal care for neonates and 1-59 months children during the final illness. Results Child mortality in Nigeria in children aged 1-59 months is strongly associated with levels of wealth, place of residence, and maternal education. The association of these same socio-economic factors with neonatal mortality is weaker. While there were significant associations with wealth quintiles and geopolitical zones, higher maternal education was not significantly associated with lower neonatal death rates. Maternal complications in pregnancy and/or labour and delivery were common and strongly associated with stillbirths and deaths in the first two days. Severity scores at the inception of the illnesses did not show differences between children who only received informal care versus those who went to formal care providers. The main barriers to care were distance, cost, transport, and the need to travel at night, and these barriers were interlinked. More distant facilities usually required vehicle transport, which was expensive for low-income families. Travelling for an emergency at night was even more difficult in terms of finding and paying for transport and involving problems with insecurity and bad roads. Conclusions The family, community, and health system factors related to neonatal and 1-59 months child deaths in Nigeria were highlighted in this study. Deaths were commonly associated with numerous factors, each of which could contribute to the sequence of events resulting in a preventable death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robinson D Wammanda
- Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - William Weiss
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and Public Health Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Alice R Nte
- University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
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Neonatal mortality in two districts in Indonesia: Findings from Neonatal Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265032. [PMID: 35286361 PMCID: PMC8920176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Government of Indonesia is determined to follow global commitments to reduce the neonatal mortality rate. Yet, there is a paucity of information on contributing factors and causes of neonatal deaths, particularly at the sub-national level. This study describes care-seeking during neonates’ fatal illnesses and their causes of death. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional community-based study to identify all neonatal deaths in Serang and Jember Districts, Indonesia. Follow-up interviews were conducted with the families of deceased neonates using an adapted verbal and social autopsy instrument. Cause of death was determined using the InSilicoVA algorithm. Results The main causes of death of 259 neonates were prematurity (44%) and intrapartum-related events (IPRE)-mainly birth asphyxia (39%). About 83% and 74% of the 259 neonates were born and died at a health facility, respectively; 79% died within the first week after birth. Of 70 neonates whose fatal illness began at home, 59 (84%) sought care during the fatal illness. Forty-eight of those 59 neonates went to a formal care provider; 36 of those 48 neonates (75%) were moderately or severely ill when the family decided to seek care. One hundred fifteen of 189 neonates (61%) whose fatal illnesses began at health facilities were born at a hospital. Among those 115, only 24 (21%) left the hospital alive–of whom 16 (67%) were referred by the hospital. Conclusions The high proportion of deaths due to prematurity and IPRE suggests the need for improved management of small and asphyxiated newborns. The moderate to severe condition of neonates at the time when care was sought from home highlights the importance of early illness recognition and appropriate management for sick neonates. Among deceased neonates whose fatal illness began at their delivery hospital, the high proportion of referrals may indicate issues with hospital capability, capacity, and/or cost.
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10
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Chan GJ, Hunegnaw BM, Van Wickle K, Mohammed Y, Hunegnaw M, Bekele C, Goddard FGB, Tadesse F, Bekele D. Birhan maternal and child health cohort: a study protocol. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e049692. [PMID: 34588249 PMCID: PMC8480011 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-049692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Reliable estimates on maternal and child morbidity and mortality are essential for health programmes and policies. Data are needed in populations, which have the highest burden of disease but also have the least evidence and research, to design and evaluate health interventions to prevent illnesses and deaths that occur worldwide each year. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The Birhan Maternal and Child Health cohort is an open prospective pregnancy and birth cohort nested within the Birhan Health and Demographic Surveillance System. An estimated 2500 pregnant women are enrolled each year and followed through pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Newborns are followed through 2 years of life to assess growth and development. Baseline medical data, signs and symptoms, laboratory test results, anthropometrics and pregnancy and birth outcomes (stillbirth, preterm birth, low birth weight) are collected from both home and health facility visits. We will calculate the period prevalence and incidence of primary morbidity and mortality outcomes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The cohort has received ethical approval. Findings will be disseminated at scientific conferences, peer-reviewed journals and to relevant stakeholders including the Ministry of Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace J Chan
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bezawit Mesfin Hunegnaw
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Kimiko Van Wickle
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yahya Mohammed
- HaSET, St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mesfin Hunegnaw
- HaSET, St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Chalachew Bekele
- HaSET, St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Frederick G B Goddard
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Fisseha Tadesse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Debre Birhan Referral Hospital, Debre Birhan, Ethiopia
| | - Delayehu Bekele
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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11
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Caballero MT, Bianchi AM, Grigaites SD, De la Iglesia Niveyro PX, Nuño A, Valle S, Afarian G, Esperante SA, Ferretti AJP, Jares Baglivo S, De Luca J, Alvarez-Paggi D, Diamanti A, Bassat Q, Polack FP. Community Mortality Due to Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Argentina: Population-based Surveillance Study. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:S210-S217. [PMID: 34472572 PMCID: PMC8411253 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many deaths in infants from low-middle income countries (LMICs) occur at home or upon arrival to health facilities. Although acute lower respiratory tract illness plays an important role in community mortality, the accuracy of mortality rates due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains unknown. Methods An active surveillance study among children aged under 5 years old (U5) was performed in Buenos Aires, Argentina, between January and December 2019, to define the burden and role of RSV in childhood community mortality. Results A total of 63 families of children U5 participated in the study. Based on a combined approach of tissue sampling, verbal autopsies, and expert’s analysis, RSV infection was found in the causal chain of 11 from 12 cases with positive molecular biology results in respiratory samples. The estimated mortality rate due to RSV among infants was 0.27 deaths/1000 live births. The mean age of RSV-related household deaths was 2.8 months of age (standard deviation [SD] 1.7), and 8/12 were male infants (66.7%). Dying at home from RSV was associated with Streptococcus pneumoniae and/or Moraxella catarrhalis lung coinfection (75%), living in slums and settlement (odds ratio [OR], 17.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3–219.2), and other underlying comorbidities (OR, 14.87; 95% CI, 1.3–164.6). Conclusions Infant community mortality rates due to RSV are higher than those reported in industrialized countries and similar to those reported in hospital-based studies in the same catchment population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio T Caballero
- Fundacion INFANT, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Sebastian Diaz Grigaites
- Morgue Judicial del Instituto de Ciencias Forenses Conurbano Sur, Ministerio Publico de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Lomas de Zamora, Argentina
| | | | | | | | - Gabriela Afarian
- Morgue Judicial del Instituto de Ciencias Forenses Conurbano Sur, Ministerio Publico de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Lomas de Zamora, Argentina
| | - Sebastian A Esperante
- Fundacion INFANT, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | - Damian Alvarez-Paggi
- Fundacion INFANT, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Adriana Diamanti
- Morgue Judicial del Instituto de Ciencias Forenses Conurbano Sur, Ministerio Publico de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Lomas de Zamora, Argentina
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), CP Maputo, Mozambique.,ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys, Barcelona, Spain.,Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (University of Barcelona), Barcelona, Spain.,Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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12
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Olack B, Santos N, Inziani M, Moshi V, Oyoo P, Nalwa G, OumaOtare LC, Walker D, Otieno PA. Causes of preterm and low birth weight neonatal mortality in a rural community in Kenya: evidence from verbal and social autopsy. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:536. [PMID: 34325651 PMCID: PMC8320164 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04012-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Under-five mortality in Kenya has declined over the past two decades. However, the reduction in the neonatal mortality rate has remained stagnant. In a country with weak civil registration and vital statistics systems, there is an evident gap in documentation of mortality and its causes among low birth weight (LBW) and preterm neonates. We aimed to establish causes of neonatal LBW and preterm mortality in Migori County, among participants of the PTBI-K (Preterm Birth Initiative-Kenya) study. Methods Verbal and social autopsy (VASA) interviews were conducted with caregivers of deceased LBW and preterm neonates delivered within selected 17 health facilities in Migori County, Kenya. The probable cause of death was assigned using the WHO International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). Results Between January 2017 to December 2018, 3175 babies were born preterm or LBW, and 164 (5.1%) died in the first 28 days of life. VASA was conducted among 88 (53.7%) of the neonatal deaths. Almost half (38, 43.2%) of the deaths occurred within the first 24 h of life. Birth asphyxia (45.5%), neonatal sepsis (26.1%), respiratory distress syndrome (12.5%) and hypothermia (11.0%) were the leading causes of death. In the early neonatal period, majority (54.3%) of the neonates succumbed to asphyxia while in the late neonatal period majority (66.7%) succumbed to sepsis. Delay in seeking medical care was reported for 4 (5.8%) of the neonatal deaths. Conclusion Deaths among LBW and preterm neonates occur early in life due to preventable causes. This calls for enhanced implementation of existing facility-based intrapartum and immediate postpartum care interventions, targeting asphyxia, sepsis, respiratory distress syndrome and hypothermia. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-021-04012-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Olack
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O Box 54840 00200, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Nicole Santos
- University of California San Francisco, Institute for Global Health Sciences, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mary Inziani
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O Box 54840 00200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Vincent Moshi
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O Box 54840 00200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Polycarp Oyoo
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O Box 54840 00200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Grace Nalwa
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Maseno University, P.O Box Private Bag, Maseno, Kenya
| | | | - Dilys Walker
- University of California San Francisco, Institute for Global Health Sciences, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Phelgona A Otieno
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O Box 54840 00200, Nairobi, Kenya
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13
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Preslar JP, Worrell MC, Kaiser R, Cain CJ, Samura S, Jambai A, Raghunathan PL, Clarke K, Goodman D, Christiansen-Lindquist L, Webb-Girard A, Kramer M, Breiman R. Effect of Delays in Maternal Access to Healthcare on Neonatal Mortality in Sierra Leone: A Social Autopsy Case-Control Study at a Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) Site. Matern Child Health J 2021; 25:1326-1335. [PMID: 33945079 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-021-03132-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In low-resource settings, a social autopsy tool has been proposed to measure the effect of delays in access to healthcare on deaths, complementing verbal autopsy questionnaires routinely used to determine cause of death. This study estimates the contribution of various delays in maternal healthcare to subsequent neonatal mortality using a social autopsy case-control design. METHODS This study was conducted at the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) Sierra Leone site (Makeni City and surrounding rural areas). Cases were neonatal deaths in the catchment area, and controls were sex- and area-matched living neonates. Odds ratios for maternal barriers to care and neonatal death were estimated, and stratified models examined this association by neonatal age and medical complications. RESULTS Of 53 neonatal deaths, 26.4% of mothers experienced at least one delay during pregnancy or delivery compared to 46.9% of mothers of stillbirths and 18.6% of control mothers. The most commonly reported delay among neonatal deaths was receiving care at the facility (18.9%). Experiencing any barrier was weakly associated (OR 1.68, CI 0.77, 3.67) and a delay in receiving care at the facility was strongly associated (OR 19.15, CI 3.90, 94.19) with neonatal death. DISCUSSION Delays in healthcare are associated with neonatal death, particularly delays experienced at the healthcare facility. Heterogeneity exists in the prevalence of specific delays, which has implications for local public health policy. The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Reinhard Kaiser
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | | | - Amara Jambai
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | - Kevin Clarke
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David Goodman
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Michael Kramer
- Emory University School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
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14
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Kalter HD, Perin J, Amouzou A, Kwamdera G, Adewemimo WA, Nguefack F, Roubanatou AM, Black RE. Using health facility deaths to estimate population causes of neonatal and child mortality in four African countries. BMC Med 2020; 18:183. [PMID: 32527253 PMCID: PMC7291588 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-020-01639-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Verbal autopsy is the main method used in countries with weak civil registration systems for estimating community causes of neonatal and 1-59-month-old deaths. However, validation studies of verbal autopsy methods are limited and assessment has been dependent on hospital-based studies, with uncertain implications for its validity in community settings. If the distribution of community deaths by cause was similar to that of facility deaths, or could be adjusted according to related demographic factors, then the causes of facility deaths could be used to estimate population causes. METHODS Causes of neonatal and 1-59-month-old deaths from verbal/social autopsy (VASA) surveys in four African countries were estimated using expert algorithms (EAVA) and physician coding (PCVA). Differences between facility and community deaths in individual causes and cause distributions were examined using chi-square and cause-specific mortality fractions (CSMF) accuracy, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression and random forest models including factors from the VASA studies that are commonly available in Demographic and Health Surveys were built to predict population causes from facility deaths. RESULTS Levels of facility and community deaths in the four countries differed for one to four of 10 EAVA or PCVA neonatal causes and zero to three of 12 child causes. CSMF accuracy for facility compared to community deaths in the four countries ranged from 0.74 to 0.87 for neonates and 0.85 to 0.95 for 1-59-month-olds. Crude CSMF accuracy in the prediction models averaged 0.86 to 0.88 for neonates and 0.93 for 1-59-month-olds. Adjusted random forest prediction models increased average CSMF accuracy for neonates to, at most, 0.90, based on small increases in all countries. CONCLUSIONS There were few differences in facility and community causes of neonatal and 1-59-month-old deaths in the four countries, and it was possible to project the population CSMF from facility deaths with accuracy greater than the validity of verbal autopsy diagnoses. Confirmation of these findings in additional settings would warrant research into how medical causes of deaths in a representative sample of health facilities can be utilized to estimate the population causes of child death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry D Kalter
- Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Jamie Perin
- Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Center for Child and Community Health Research, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Agbessi Amouzou
- Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gift Kwamdera
- Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Ministry of Health, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Félicitée Nguefack
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Robert E Black
- Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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15
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Price J, Lee J, Willcox M, Harnden A. Place of death, care-seeking and care pathway progression in the final illnesses of children under five years of age in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. J Glob Health 2020; 9:020422. [PMID: 31673338 PMCID: PMC6815655 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.09.020422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Half of all under-5 deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Reducing child mortality requires understanding of the modifiable factors that contribute to death. Social autopsies collect information about place of death, care-seeking and care-provision, but this has not been pooled to learn wider lessons. We therefore undertook a systematic review to collect, evaluate, map, and pool all the available evidence for sub-Saharan Africa. Methods We searched PubMed, Embase, Global Health, the Cochrane Library and grey literature for studies relating to under-5 deaths in sub-Saharan Africa with information on place of death and/or care-seeking during a child’s final illness. We assessed study quality with a modified Axis tool. We pooled proportions using random effects meta-analysis for place of death and for each stage of the Pathways to Survival framework. Pre-specified subgroup analysis included age group, national income and user-fee policy. We explored heterogeneity with meta-regression. Our protocol was published prospectively (CRD42018111484). Results We included 34 studies from 17 countries. Approximately half of the children died at home, irrespective of age. More children died at home in settings with user-fees (69.1%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 56.2-80.6, I2 = 98.4%) compared to settings without user-fees (43.8%, 95% CI = 34.3-53.5, I2 = 96.7%). Signs of illness were present in over 95% of children but care-seeking differed by age. 40.1% of neonates (95% CI = 20.7-61.3, I2 = 98.0%) died without receiving any care, compared to 6.4% of older children (95% CI = 4.2%-9.0%, I2 = 90.6%). Care-seeking outside the home was less common in neonatal deaths (50.5%, 95% CI = 35.6-65.3, I2 = 98.3%) compared to infants and young children (82.4%, 95% CI = 79.4%-85.2%, I2 = 87.5%). In both age groups, most children were taken for formal care. Healthcare facilities discharged 69.6% of infants and young children who arrived alive (95% CI = 59.6-78.7, I2 = 95.5%), of whom only 34.9% were referred for further care (95% CI = 15.1-57.9, I2 = 98.7%). Conclusions Despite similar distributions in place of death for neonates and infants and young children, care-seeking behaviour differed by age groups. Poor illness recognition is implicated in neonatal deaths, but death despite care-seeking implies inadequate quality care and referral for older children. Understanding such care-seeking patterns enables targeted interventions to reduce under-5 mortality across the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Price
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Joseph Lee
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Merlin Willcox
- Department of Primary Care and Population Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Anthony Harnden
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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16
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Roder-DeWan S, Gupta N, Kagabo DM, Habumugisha L, Nahimana E, Mugeni C, Bucyana T, Hirschhorn LR. Four delays of child mortality in Rwanda: a mixed methods analysis of verbal social autopsies. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e027435. [PMID: 31133592 PMCID: PMC6549629 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to understand healthcare-seeking patterns and delays in obtaining effective treatment for rural Rwandan children aged 1-5 years by analysing verbal and social autopsies (VSA). Factors in the home, related to transport and to quality of care in the formal health sector (FHS) were thought to contribute to delays. DESIGN We collected quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional data using the validated 2012 WHO VSA tool. Descriptive statistics were performed. We inductively and deductively coded narratives using the three delays model, conducted thematic content analysis and used convergent mixed methods to synthesise findings. SETTING The study took place in the catchment areas of two rural district hospitals in Rwanda-Kirehe and Southern Kayonza. Participants were caregivers of children aged 1-5 years who died in our study area between March 2013 and February 2014. RESULTS We analysed 77 VSAs. Although 74% of children (n=57) had contact with the FHS before dying, most (59%, n=45) died at home. Many caregivers (44%, n=34) considered using traditional medicine and 23 (33%) actually did. Qualitative themes reflected difficulty recognising the need for care, the importance of traditional medicine, especially for 'poisoning' and poor perceived quality of care. We identified an additional delay-phase IV-which occurred after leaving formal healthcare facilities. These delays were associated with caregiver dissatisfaction or inability to adhere to care plans. CONCLUSION Delays in deciding to seek care (phase I) and receiving quality care in FHS (phase III) dominated these narratives; delays in reaching a facility (phase II) were rarely discussed. An unwillingness or inability toadhere to treatment plans after leaving facilities (phase IV) were an important additional delay. Improving quality of care, especially provider capacity to communicate danger signs/treatment plans and promote adherence in the presence of alternative explanatory models informed by traditional medicine, could help prevent childhood deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanam Roder-DeWan
- Global Health and Population, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Ifakara Health Institute, Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Neil Gupta
- Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Partners in Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | | | | | | | - Catherine Mugeni
- Maternal Child and Community Health Rwanda Biomédical Center, Rwanda Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Tatien Bucyana
- Maternal Child and Community Health Rwanda Biomédical Center, Rwanda Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Lisa R Hirschhorn
- Ariadne Labs, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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17
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Bazzano AN, Var C, Wilkosz D, Duggal R, Oberhelman RA. Neonatal deaths in Cambodia: findings from a community-based mortality review. BMC Res Notes 2019; 12:236. [PMID: 31014375 PMCID: PMC6480804 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-019-4265-5] [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: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to describe potential factors contributing to neonatal mortality in Takeo, Cambodia through assessment of verbal autopsies collected following newborn deaths in the community. The mortality review was nested within a trial of a behavioral intervention to improve newborn survival, and was conducted after the close of the trial, within the study setting. The World Health Organization standardized definition of neonatal mortality was employed, and two pediatricians independently reviewed data collected from each event to assign a cause of death. Results Thirteen newborn deaths of infants born in health facilities participating in a community based, behavioral intervention were reported during February 2015–November 2016. Ten deaths (76.92%) were early neonatal deaths, two (15.38%) were late neonatal deaths, and one was a stillbirth. Five out of 13 deaths (38.46%) occurred within the first day of life. The largest single contributor to mortality was neonatal sepsis; six of 13 deaths (46.15%) were attributed to some form of sepsis. Twenty-three percent of deaths were attributed to asphyxia. The study highlights the continuing need to improve quality of care and infection prevention and control, and to fully address causes of sepsis, in order to effectively reduce mortality in the newborn period.
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Affiliation(s)
- A N Bazzano
- Department of Global Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, 1440 Canal St., New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
| | - C Var
- National Institute of Public Health, #2 Kim Y Sung Blvd, Tuol Kork, P.O. Box 1300, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.,Reproductive Health Association of Cambodia (RHAC), #5, 150 St., Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - D Wilkosz
- Department of Global Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, 1440 Canal St., New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - R Duggal
- Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - R A Oberhelman
- Department of Global Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, 1440 Canal St., New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
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18
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Moyer CA, Johnson C, Kaselitz E, Aborigo R. Using social autopsy to understand maternal, newborn, and child mortality in low-resource settings: a systematic review of the literature. Glob Health Action 2018; 10:1413917. [PMID: 29261449 PMCID: PMC5757230 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2017.1413917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Social, cultural, and behavioral factors are often potent upstream contributors to maternal, neonatal, and child mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Social autopsy is one method of identifying the impact of such factors, yet it is unclear how social autopsy methods are being used in LMICs. Objective: This study aimed to identify the most common social autopsy instruments, describe overarching findings across populations and geography, and identify gaps in the existing social autopsy literature. Methods: A systematic search of the peer-reviewed literature from 2005 to 2016 was conducted. Studies were included if they were conducted in an LMIC, focused on maternal/neonatal/infant/child health, reported on the results of original research, and explicitly mentioned the use of a social autopsy tool. Results: Sixteen articles out of 1950 citations were included, representing research conducted in 11 countries. Five different tools were described, with two primary conceptual frameworks used to guide analysis: Pathway to Survival and Three Delays models. Studies varied in methods for identifying deaths, and recall periods for respondents ranged from 6 weeks to 5+ years. Across studies, recognition of danger signs appeared to be high, while subsequent care-seeking was inconsistent. Cost, distance to facility, and transportation issues were frequently cited barriers to care-seeking, however, additional barriers were reported that varied by location. Gaps in the social autopsy literature include the lack of: harmonized tools and analytical methods that allow for cross-study comparisons, discussion of complexity of decision making for care seeking, qualitative narratives that address inconsistencies in responses, and the explicit inclusion of perspectives from husbands and fathers. Conclusion: Despite the nascence of the field, research across 11 countries has included social autopsy methods, using a variety of tools, sampling methods, and analytical frameworks to determine how social factors impact maternal, neonatal, and child health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Moyer
- a Departments of Learning Health Sciences and Obstetrics & Gynecology , University of Michigan Medical School , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Global REACH , University of Michigan Medical School , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Cassidy Johnson
- b Global REACH , University of Michigan Medical School , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Elizabeth Kaselitz
- b Global REACH , University of Michigan Medical School , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
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Thomas LM, D'Ambruoso L, Balabanova D. Use of verbal autopsy and social autopsy in humanitarian crises. BMJ Glob Health 2018; 3:e000640. [PMID: 29736275 PMCID: PMC5935165 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2017-000640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Two billion people live in countries affected by conflict, violence and fragility. These are exceptional situations in which mortality shifts dramatically and in which civil registration and vital statistics systems are often weakened or cease to function. Verbal autopsy and social autopsy (VA and SA) are methods used to assign causes of death and understand the contexts in which these occur, in settings where information is otherwise unavailable. This review sought to explore the use of VA and SA in humanitarian crises, with a focus on how these approaches are used to inform policy and programme responses. METHODS A rapid scoping review was conducted on the use of VA and SA in humanitarian crises in low and middle-income countries since 1991. Drawing on a maximum variation approach, two settings of application ('application contexts') were selected and investigated via nine semi-structured expert interviews. RESULTS VA can determine causes of death in crisis-affected populations where no other registration system is in place. Combined with SA and active community involvement, these methods can deliver a holistic view of obstacles to seeking and receiving essential healthcare, yielding context-specific information to inform appropriate responses. The contexts in which VA and SA are used require adaptations to standard tools, and new mobile developments in VA raise specific ethical considerations. Furthermore, collecting and sythesising data in a timely, continuous manner, and ensuring coordination and communication between agencies, is important to realise the potential of these approaches. CONCLUSION VA and SA are valuable research methods to foster evidence-informed responses for populations affected by humanitarian crises. When coordinated and communicated effectively, data generated through these methods can help to identify levels, causes and circumstances of deaths among vulnerable groups, and can enable planning and allocating resources effectively, potentially improving health system resilience to future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa-Marie Thomas
- Centre for Global Development and Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Lucia D'Ambruoso
- Centre for Global Development and Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Dina Balabanova
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK
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Snavely ME, Maze MJ, Muiruri C, Ngowi L, Mboya F, Beamesderfer J, Makupa GF, Mwingwa AG, Lwezaula BF, Mmbaga BT, Maro VP, Crump JA, Ostermann J, Rubach MP. Sociocultural and health system factors associated with mortality among febrile inpatients in Tanzania: a prospective social biopsy cohort study. BMJ Glob Health 2018; 3:e000507. [PMID: 29527339 PMCID: PMC5841511 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2017-000507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Communicable diseases are the leading causes of death in Tanzania despite the existence of effective treatment tools. We aimed to assess the sociocultural and health system factors associated with mortality from febrile illness in northern Tanzania. METHODS We interviewed febrile inpatients to determine prevalence of barriers in seeking or receiving care and grouped these barriers using the Three Delays model (delays at home, in transport and at healthcare facilities). We assessed 6-week mortality and, after matching on age, gender and severity of illness, measured the association between delays and mortality using conditional logistic regression. RESULTS We enrolled 475 children, of whom 18 (3.8%) died, and 260 adults, of whom 34 (13.0%) died. For children, home delays were not associated with mortality. Among adults, a delay in care-seeking due to not recognising severe symptoms was associated with mortality (OR: 3.01; 95% CI 1.24 to 7.32). For transport delays, taking >1 hour to reach a facility increased odds of death in children (OR: 3.27; 95% CI 1.11 to 9.66) and adults (OR: 3.03; 95% CI 1.32 to 6.99). For health system delays, each additional facility visited was associated with mortality for children (OR: 1.59; 95% CI 1.06 to 2.38) and adults (OR: 2.00; 95% CI 1.17 to 3.41), as was spending >4 days between the first facility visit and reaching tertiary care (OR: 4.39; 95% CI 1.49 to 12.93). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that delays at home, in transport and in accessing tertiary care are risk factors for mortality from febrile illness in northern Tanzania. Interventions that may reduce mortality include community education regarding severe symptoms, expanding transportation infrastructure and streamlining referrals to tertiary care for the sickest patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Snavely
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael J Maze
- Centre for International Health, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Charles Muiruri
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lilian Ngowi
- KCMC-Duke Collaboration, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Flora Mboya
- KCMC-Duke Collaboration, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Julia Beamesderfer
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Glory F Makupa
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Anthon G Mwingwa
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | - Blandina T Mmbaga
- KCMC-Duke Collaboration, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Venance P Maro
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - John A Crump
- Centre for International Health, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jan Ostermann
- Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Matthew P Rubach
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Rai SK, Kant S, Srivastava R, Gupta P, Misra P, Pandav CS, Singh AK. Causes of and contributors to infant mortality in a rural community of North India: evidence from verbal and social autopsy. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e012856. [PMID: 28801384 PMCID: PMC5577880 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the medical causes of death and contribution of non-biological factors towards infant mortality by a retrospective analysis of routinely collected data using verbal and social autopsy tools. SETTING The study site was Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS), Ballabgarh, North India PARTICIPANTS: All infant deaths during the years 2008-2012 were included for verbal autopsy and infant deaths from July 2012 to December 2012 were included for social autopsy. OUTCOME MEASURES Cause of death ascertained by a validated verbal autopsy tool and level of delay based on a three-delay model using the INDEPTH social autopsy tool were the main outcome measures. The level of delay was defined as follows: level 1, delay in identification of danger signs and decision making to seek care; level 2, delay in reaching a health facility from home; level 3, delay in getting healthcare at the health facility. RESULTS The infant mortality rate during the study period was 46.5/1000 live births. Neonatal deaths contributed to 54.3% of infant deaths and 39% occurred on the first day of life. Birth asphyxia (31.5%) followed by low birth weight (LBW)/prematurity (26.5%) were the most common causes of neonatal death, while infection (57.8%) was the most common cause of post-neonatal death. Care-seeking was delayed among 50% of neonatal deaths and 41.2% of post-neonatal deaths. Delay at level 1 was most common and occurred in 32.4% of neonatal deaths and 29.4% of post-neonatal deaths. Deaths due to LBW/prematurity were mostly followed by delay at level 1. CONCLUSION A high proportion of preventable infant mortality still exists in an area which is under continuous health and demographic surveillance. There is a need to enhance home-based preventive care to enable the mother to identify and respond to danger signs. Verbal autopsy and social autopsy could be routinely done to guide policy interventions aimed at reduction of infant mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Kumar Rai
- Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- INDEPTH Network, Accra, Ghana
| | - Shashi Kant
- Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- INDEPTH Network, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Priti Gupta
- Centre for Chronic Disease Control, Gurgaon, India
| | - Puneet Misra
- Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- INDEPTH Network, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Arvind Kumar Singh
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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Wariri O, D’Ambruoso L, Twine R, Ngobeni S, van der Merwe M, Spies B, Kahn K, Tollman S, Wagner RG, Byass P. Initiating a participatory action research process in the Agincourt health and socio-demographic surveillance site. J Glob Health 2017; 7:010413. [PMID: 28685035 PMCID: PMC5475314 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.07.010413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite progressive health policy, disease burdens in South Africa remain patterned by deeply entrenched social inequalities. Accounting for the relationships between context, health and risk can provide important information for equitable service delivery. The aims of the research were to initiate a participatory research process with communities in a low income setting and produce evidence of practical relevance. METHODS We initiated a participatory action research (PAR) process in the Agincourt health and socio-demographic surveillance site (HDSS) in rural north-east South Africa. Three village-based discussion groups were convened and consulted about conditions to examine, one of which was under-5 mortality. A series of discussions followed in which routine HDSS data were presented and participants' subjective perspectives were elicited and systematized into collective forms of knowledge using ranking, diagramming and participatory photography. The process concluded with a priority setting exercise. Visual and narrative data were thematically analyzed to complement the participants' analysis. RESULTS A range of social and structural root causes of under-5 mortality were identified: poverty, unemployment, inadequate housing, unsafe environments and shortages of clean water. Despite these constraints, single mothers were often viewed as negligent. A series of mid-level contributory factors in clinics were also identified: overcrowding, poor staffing, delays in treatment and shortages of medications. In a similar sense, pronounced blame and negativity were directed toward clinic nurses in spite of the systems constraints identified. Actions to address these issues were prioritized as: expanding clinics, improving accountability and responsiveness of health workers, improving employment, providing clean water, and expanding community engagement for health promotion. CONCLUSIONS We initiated a PAR process to gain local knowledge and prioritize actions. The process was acceptable to those involved, and there was willingness and commitment to continue. The study provided a basis from which to gain support to develop fuller forms of participatory research in this setting. The next steps are to build deeper involvement of participants in the process, expand to include the perspectives of those most marginalized, and engage in the health system at different levels to move toward an ongoing process of action and learning from action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oghenebrume Wariri
- Centre for Global Development and Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, Gombe, Nigeria
| | - Lucia D’Ambruoso
- Centre for Global Development and Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH, Accra, Ghana
| | - Sizzy Ngobeni
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH, Accra, Ghana
| | - Maria van der Merwe
- Directorate for Maternal, Child, Women and Youth Health and Nutrition, Mpumalanga Department of Health, South Africa
| | - Barry Spies
- Directorate for Maternal, Child, Women and Youth Health and Nutrition, Mpumalanga Department of Health, South Africa
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH, Accra, Ghana
| | - Stephen Tollman
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ryan G Wagner
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH, Accra, Ghana
| | - Peter Byass
- Centre for Global Development and Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Bensaïd K, Yaroh AG, Kalter HD, Koffi AK, Amouzou A, Maina A, Kazmi N. Verbal/Social Autopsy in Niger 2012-2013: A new tool for a better understanding of the neonatal and child mortality situation. J Glob Health 2016; 6:010602. [PMID: 26955472 PMCID: PMC4766792 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.06.010602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Niger, one of the poorest countries in the world, recently used for the first time the integrated verbal and social autopsy (VASA) tool to assess the biological causes and social and health system determinants of neonatal and child deaths. These notes summarize the Nigerien experience in the use of this new tool, the steps taken for high level engagement of the Niger government and stakeholders for the wide dissemination of the study results and their use to support policy development and maternal, neonatal and child health programming in the country. The experience in Niger reflects lessons learned by other developing countries in strengthening the use of data for evidence–based decision making, and highlights the need for the global health community to provide continued support to country data initiatives, including the collection, analysis, interpretation and utilization of high quality data for the development of targeted, highly effective interventions. In Niger, this is supporting the country’s progress toward achieving Millennium Development Goal 4. A follow–up VASA study is being planned and the tool is being integrated into the National Health Management Information System. VASA studies have now been completed or are under way in additional sub–Saharan African countries, in each through the same collaborative process used in Niger to bring together health policy makers, program planners and development partners.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Henry D Kalter
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alain K Koffi
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Abdou Maina
- Institute National des Statistics, Niamey, Niger
| | - Narjis Kazmi
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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D’Ambruoso L, Kahn K, Wagner RG, Twine R, Spies B, van der Merwe M, Gómez-Olivé FX, Tollman S, Byass P. Moving from medical to health systems classifications of deaths: extending verbal autopsy to collect information on the circumstances of mortality. Glob Health Res Policy 2016; 1:2. [PMID: 29202052 PMCID: PMC5675065 DOI: 10.1186/s41256-016-0002-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Verbal autopsy (VA) is a health surveillance technique used in low and middle-income countries to establish medical causes of death (CODs) for people who die outside hospitals and/or without registration. By virtue of the deaths it investigates, VA is also an opportunity to examine social exclusion from access to health systems. The aims were to develop a system to collect and interpret information on social and health systems determinants of deaths investigated in VA. METHODS A short set of questions on care pathways, circumstances and events at and around the time of death were developed and integrated into the WHO 2012 short form VA (SF-VA). Data were subsequently analysed from two census rounds in the Agincourt Health and Socio-Demographic Surveillance Site (HDSS), South Africa in 2012 and 2013 where the SF-VA had been applied. InterVA and descriptive analysis were used to calculate cause-specific mortality fractions (CSMFs), and to examine responses to the new indicators and whether and how they varied by medical CODs and age/sex sub-groups. RESULTS One thousand two hundred forty-nine deaths were recorded in the Agincourt HDSS censuses in 2012-13 of which 1,196 (96 %) had complete VA data. Infectious and non-communicable conditions accounted for the majority of deaths (47 % and 39 % respectively) with smaller proportions attributed to external, neonatal and maternal causes (5 %, 2 % and 1 % respectively). 5 % of deaths were of indeterminable cause. The new indicators revealed multiple problems with access to care at the time of death: 39 % of deaths did not call for help, 36 % found care unaffordable overall, and 33 % did not go to a facility. These problems were reported consistently across age and sex sub-groups. Acute conditions and younger age groups had fewer problems with overall costs but more with not calling for help or going to a facility. An illustrative health systems interpretation suggests extending and promoting existing provisions for transport and financial access in this setting. CONCLUSIONS Supplementing VA with questions on the circumstances of mortality provides complementary information to CSMFs relevant for health planning. Further contextualisation of the method and results are underway with health systems stakeholders to develop the interpretation sequence as part of a health policy and systems research approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia D’Ambruoso
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH: An International Network for the Demographic Evaluation of Populations and Their Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ryan G. Wagner
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Barry Spies
- Directorate for Maternal, Child, Women and Youth Health and Nutrition, Mpumalanga Department of Health, Nelspruit, Mpumalanga South Africa
| | - Maria van der Merwe
- Directorate for Maternal, Child, Women and Youth Health and Nutrition, Mpumalanga Department of Health, Nelspruit, Mpumalanga South Africa
| | - F. Xavier Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH: An International Network for the Demographic Evaluation of Populations and Their Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Stephen Tollman
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH: An International Network for the Demographic Evaluation of Populations and Their Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Peter Byass
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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