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Tawfiq E, Saeed KMI, Shah Alawi SA, Jawaid J, Hashimi SN. Predictors of Mothers' Care Seeking Behavior for Common Childhood Illnesses: Findings From the Afghanistan Health Survey 2015. Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:7598. [PMID: 38618777 PMCID: PMC10843312 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.7598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mothers' care seeking behavior for childhood illness is a key factor of utilizing healthcare for children. We examined predictors of mothers' care seeking for common childhood illnesses. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study, using data from the Afghanistan Health Survey (AHS) 2015. Data were used from women who sought healthcare for their unwell children. The women were asked whether their children were sick with fever, cough, faster breathing, or diarrhea in the past 2 weeks. The outcome variable was defined as whether the mother sought healthcare for her unwell child from a public clinic, a private clinic, or from a pharmacy store. The Andersen's healthcare seeking behavior model was used and multinomial regression analysis applied. RESULTS There were 4979 women, aged 15-49 years, whose under-5 children were sick in the past 2 weeks. Thirty-nine percent of women sought healthcare for their children from a health provider. Mother's age, child's age, child's sex, socioeconomic status, mothers' perceived severity of childhood illness, and number of under-5 children were predictors of mothers' care seeking behavior. The likelihood of healthcare seeking was lower for older children (Adjusted odds ratio [OR] [95% CI]: 0.51 [0.37-0.70] from public clinics; 0.33 [0.23-0.47] from private clinics; 0.36 [0.22-0.61] from pharmacy stores), and for girls (Adjusted OR [95% CI]: 0.74 [0.59-0.93] from private clinics). The likelihood of healthcare seeking was greater for children whose mothers knew symptoms of childhood illness (Adjusted OR [95% CI]: 2.97 [1.44-6.16] from public clinics; 7.20 [3.04-17.04] from pharmacy stores). The likelihood of healthcare seeking for children was greater in older mothers (Adjusted OR [95% CI]: 1.54 [1.11-2.12]). It was less likely for the mothers who have more children to seek healthcare for their children (Adjusted OR [95% CI]: 0.53 [0.43-0.65] from public clinics; 0.61 [0.48- 0.79] from private clinics; 0.51 [0.37-0.69] from pharmacy stores). CONCLUSION Health policy-makers may opt to use our findings, particularly mothers' knowledge (perceived severity) of symptoms of childhood illness to develop interventions to enhance timely assessment and effective treatment of common preventable childhood illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Essa Tawfiq
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (GHD/ EMPHNET), Amman, Jordan
- Afghanistan Field Epidemiology Training Program, Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Kabul, Afghanistan
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AlHamawi R, Saad RK, Abdul Rahim HF, Mir Islam Saeed K, Husseini A, Khader Y, Al Nsour M. Supporting Public Health Research Capacity, Quality, and Productivity in a Diverse Region. Interact J Med Res 2023; 12:e39154. [PMID: 37523227 PMCID: PMC10425819 DOI: 10.2196/39154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Public health research plays a critical role in strengthening health systems and improving their performance and impact. However, scholarly production in public health coming from the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) remains well below the world average and lacks a tangible growth trend over time. During the seventh Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network Regional Conference, a roundtable session brought together a panel of public health experts representing Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network affiliates, universities or academia, and research institutions from the region, where they shared insights on the current situation of public health research; challenges and barriers to research facing the different countries in the EMR and the region in general; and how research agendas, productivity, and quality can be supported through strengthening research capacity in the region. Although the region is diverse in terms of health system capacity and socioeconomic development, several common challenges were identified, including a lack of strategic prioritization to guide health research, insufficient funding, ineffective transfer of knowledge to policy and practice, limited availability of research facilities, and limited national and international research collaboration. Occupied countries and countries in a state of conflict, such as Palestine, face additional barriers, such as personal and social security, lack of control of borders and natural resources, travel and movement restrictions, and confidentiality challenges because of the continuing war conditions and occupation. However, there have been success stories in the EMR regarding research publications and their positive and effective impact on policy and decision-makers. To improve research resilience and public health care in the region, a collaborative approach involving institutions, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana AlHamawi
- Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Amman, Jordan
| | - Randa K Saad
- Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hanan F Abdul Rahim
- Qatar University Health, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Afghanistan Field Epidemiology Training Program, Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Abdullatif Husseini
- Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Ramallah, Occupied Palestinian Territory
| | - Yousef Khader
- Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohannad Al Nsour
- Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Amman, Jordan
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Hakim MS, Mansoor GF, Walizada AW, Saeed KMI, Naeemi S, Fazil FA. General publics' perception toward COVID-19 vaccines in Afghanistan, 2021. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023:2228164. [PMID: 37417006 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2228164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As of August 2021, less than 5% of the total population in Afghanistan has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Concerns remain regarding low uptake of the vaccine due to several factors. This study was conducted to understand the perception of the public on COVID-19 and its vaccines in Afghanistan. This was a formative study using qualitative method that included FGDs with vaccination target groups and KIIs, using interview guides in local languages in 12 provinces with 300 participants during May-June 2021. Verbatim transcripts were created, and a deductive thematic analysis was conducted with transcripts after the key themes and sub-themes were developed and reviewed. Totally 24 FGDs with male and female COVID-19 high-risk groups, 12 KIIs with EPI managers, and 12 KIIs with prison heads were conducted. Key themes included awareness and perception about COVID-19, its vaccination, motivators for getting vaccinated, barriers for not getting vaccinated, and sources of information. Awareness about the COVID-19 was high in urban areas compared to rural areas. Almost 60% of the participants considered the COVID-19 vaccine effective. However, participants expressed their concerns regarding rumors and misconceptions on content, source, effectiveness, and side effects of the vaccine in their communities. Based on the study results, many participants expressed accurate knowledge about the COVID-19 disease and its vaccines. Significant barriers including misinformation, conspiracy theories, and fear of side effects persist. Collaboration between stakeholders and increasing awareness and engagement of communities about the benefits and effectiveness of the vaccines should be considered crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mir Salamuddin Hakim
- Afghanistan Field Epidemiology Training Program, Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | | | | | - Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Afghanistan Field Epidemiology Training Program, Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Shoaib Naeemi
- Afghanistan Field Epidemiology Training Program, Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
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Park SH, Hong SH, Kim K, Lee SW, Yon DK, Jung SJ, Abdeen Z, Ghayda RA, Ahmed MLCB, Serouri AA, Al‐Herz W, Al‐Shamsi HO, Ali S, Ali K, Baatarkhuu O, Nielsen HB, Bernini‐Carri E, Bondarenko A, Cassell A, Cham A, Chua MLK, Dadabhai S, Darre T, Davtyan H, Dragioti E, East B, Edwards RJ, Ferioli M, Georgiev T, Ghandour LA, Harapan H, Hsueh P, Mallah SI, Ikram A, Inoue S, Jacob L, Janković SM, Jayarajah U, Jesenak M, Kakodkar P, Kapata N, Kebede Y, Khader Y, Kifle M, Koh D, Maleš VK, Kotfis K, Koyanagi A, Kretchy J, Lakoh S, Lee J, Lee JY, Mendonça MDLL, Ling L, Llibre‐Guerra J, Machida M, Makurumidze R, Memish ZA, Mendoza I, Moiseev S, Nadasdy T, Nahshon C, Ñamendys‐Silva SA, Yongsi BN, Nicolasora AD, Nugmanova Z, Oh H, Oksanen A, Owopetu O, Ozguler ZO, Parperis K, Perez GE, Pongpirul K, Rademaker M, Radojevic N, Roca A, Rodriguez‐Morales AJ, Roshi E, Saeed KMI, Sah R, Sakakushev B, Sallam DE, Sathian B, Schober P, Ali PSS, Simonović Z, Singhal T, Skhvitaridze N, Solmi M, Subbaram K, Tizaoui K, Tlhakanelo JT, Torales J, Torres‐Roman JS, Tsartsalis D, Tsolmon J, Vieira DN, Rosa SGV, Wanghi G, Wollina U, Xu R, Yang L, Zia K, Zildzic M, Il Shin J, Smith L. Nonpharmaceutical interventions reduce the incidence and mortality of COVID‐19: A study based on the survey from the International COVID‐19 Research Network (ICRN). J Med Virol 2023; 95. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1002/jmv.28354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe recently emerged novel coronavirus, “severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2),” caused a highly contagious disease called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). It has severely damaged the world's most developed countries and has turned into a major threat for low‐ and middle‐income countries. Since its emergence in late 2019, medical interventions have been substantial, and most countries relied on public health measures collectively known as nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). We aimed to centralize the accumulative knowledge of NPIs against COVID‐19 for each country under one worldwide consortium. International COVID‐19 Research Network collaborators developed a cross‐sectional online survey to assess the implications of NPIs and sanitary supply on the incidence and mortality of COVID‐19. The survey was conducted between January 1 and February 1, 2021, and participants from 92 countries/territories completed it. The association between NPIs, sanitation supplies, and incidence and mortality were examined by multivariate regression, with the log‐transformed value of population as an offset value. The majority of countries/territories applied several preventive strategies, including social distancing (100.0%), quarantine (100.0%), isolation (98.9%), and school closure (97.8%). Individual‐level preventive measures such as personal hygiene (100.0%) and wearing facial masks (94.6% at hospitals; 93.5% at mass transportation; 91.3% in mass gathering facilities) were also frequently applied. Quarantine at a designated place was negatively associated with incidence and mortality compared to home quarantine. Isolation at a designated place was also associated with reduced mortality compared to home isolation. Recommendations to use sanitizer for personal hygiene reduced incidence compared to the recommendation to use soap. Deprivation of masks was associated with increased incidence. Higher incidence and mortality were found in countries/territories with higher economic levels. Mask deprivation was pervasive regardless of economic level. NPIs against COVID‐19 such as using sanitizer, quarantine, and isolation can decrease the incidence and mortality of COVID‐19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hyun Park
- Yonsei University College of Medicine Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hwi Hong
- Yonsei University College of Medicine Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Kwanghyun Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine Yonsei University College of Medicine Seoul Republic of Korea
- Department of Public Health Yonsei University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Won Lee
- Department of Precision Medicine Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine Suwon Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Keon Yon
- Center for Digital Health, Medical Science Research Institute, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Jae Jung
- Department of Preventive Medicine Yonsei University College of Medicine Seoul Republic of Korea
- Department of Public Health Yonsei University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Ziad Abdeen
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine Al‐Quds University East Jerusalem Palestine
| | - Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Ohio United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Humaid O. Al‐Shamsi
- Burjeel Cancer Institute, Burjeel Medical City Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates
| | - Sheeza Ali
- School of Medicine, The Maldives National University Male Maldives
| | - Kosar Ali
- University of Sulaimani College of Medicine Sulaymaniyah Iraq
| | - Oidov Baatarkhuu
- Department of Infectious Diseases Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences Ulaanbaatar Mongolia
| | - Henning Bay Nielsen
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Zealand University Hospital Roskilde Roskilde Denmark
- Department of Nutrition Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Enrico Bernini‐Carri
- European Centre for Disaster Medicine, Council of Europe (CEMEC) Strasbourg France
| | - Anastasiia Bondarenko
- Department of Pediatrics, Immunology, Infectious and Rare Diseases International European University Kyiv Ukraine
| | - Ayun Cassell
- John F. Kennedy Medical Center, Edison New Jersey United States of America
| | - Akway Cham
- School of Medicine, University of Juba Juba South Sudan
| | - Melvin L. K. Chua
- Department of Head and Neck and Thoracic Cancers, Division of Radiation Oncology National Cancer Centre Singapore Singapore Singapore
- Oncology Academic Programme, Duke‐NUS Medical School Singapore Singapore
- Division of Medical Sciences National Cancer Centre Singapore Singapore Singapore
| | - Sufia Dadabhai
- Department of Epidemiology Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland United States of America
| | - Tchin Darre
- Department of Pathology University of Lomé Lome Togo
| | - Hayk Davtyan
- Tuberculosis Research and Prevention Center Yerevan Armenia
| | - Elena Dragioti
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, Linköping University Linköping Sweden
| | - Barbora East
- 3rd Department of Surgery 1st Medical Faculty of Charles University, Motol University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
| | | | - Martina Ferioli
- Respiratory and Critical Care Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna Bologna Italy
| | - Tsvetoslav Georgiev
- First Department of Internal Medicine Medical University—Varna Varna Bulgaria
| | | | - Harapan Harapan
- Department of Microbiology Universitas Syiah Kuala Banda Aceh Indonesia
| | - Po‐Ren Hsueh
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine and Internal Medicine China Medical University Hospital China Medical University Taichung Taiwan
| | - Saad I. Mallah
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland ‐ Bahrain Al Sayh Bahrain
| | - Aamer Ikram
- National Institute of Health, Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Shigeru Inoue
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Tokyo Medical University Tokyo Japan
| | - Louis Jacob
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, ISCIII, Dr. Antoni Pujadas Barcelona Spain
- Faculty of Medicine University of Versailles Saint‐Quentin‐en‐Yvelines, Montigny‐le‐Bretonneux France
| | | | - Umesh Jayarajah
- Postgraduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo Colombo Sri Lanka
| | - Milos Jesenak
- Department of Pediatrics, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin University Teaching Hospital in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava Bratislava Slovakia
| | | | - Nathan Kapata
- Zambia National Public Health Institute Lusaka Zambia
| | - Yohannes Kebede
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society Jimma University Jimma Ethiopia
| | - Yousef Khader
- Department of Public Health Jordan University of Science and Technology Irbid Jordan
| | - Meron Kifle
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield University of Oxford Oxford United Kingdom
| | - David Koh
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health National University of Singapore, Singapore Singapore
| | - Višnja Kokić Maleš
- Clinical Hospital Centre Split, University Department of Health Studies University of Split Croatia
| | - Katarzyna Kotfis
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Therapy and Acute Intoxications Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin Szczecin Poland
| | - Ai Koyanagi
- Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Deu, ICREA, CIBERSAM, ISCIII Barcelona Spain
| | - James‐Paul Kretchy
- Public Health Unit, School of Medicine and Health Sciences Central University Accra Ghana
| | - Sulaiman Lakoh
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences University of Sierra Leone Freetown Sierra Leone
| | - Jinhee Lee
- Department of Psychiatry Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju‐si Gangwon‐do Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Young Lee
- Department of Nephrology Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju‐si Gangwon‐do Republic of Korea
| | | | - Lowell Ling
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR China
| | | | - Masaki Machida
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Tokyo Medical University Tokyo Japan
| | - Richard Makurumidze
- Family Medicine, Global and Public Health Unit University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Harare Zimbabwe
| | - Ziad A. Memish
- Director Research and Innovation Center, King Saud Medical City, Ministry of Health & College of Medicine Alfaisal University Riyadh Saudi Arabia
| | - Ivan Mendoza
- Tropical Cardiology Central University of Venezuela, Caracas Venezuela
| | - Sergey Moiseev
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University Moscow Russia
| | | | - Chen Nahshon
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery & Oncology Carmel Medical Center Haifa Israel
| | - Silvio A. Ñamendys‐Silva
- Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y Nutricion Salvador Zubiran, Instituto Nacional de Cancerologia Mexico City Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Hans Oh
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles California United States of America
| | - Atte Oksanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences Tampere University Tampere Finland
| | - Oluwatomi Owopetu
- Department of Community Medicine University College Hospital Ibadan Nigeria
| | - Zeynep Ozge Ozguler
- General Directorate of Public Health Ministry of Health of Turkey Adnan Saygun St, Çankaya Ankara Turkey
| | | | | | - Krit Pongpirul
- School of Global Health and Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Chulalongkorn University Bangkok Thailand
| | - Marius Rademaker
- Clinical Trials New Zealand, Waikato Hospital Campus Hamilton New Zealand
| | | | - Anna Roca
- MRC Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara Gambia
| | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez‐Morales
- Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina Faculty of Medicine, Fundación Universitaria Autónoma de las Americas ‐ Institución Universitaria Visión de las Américas Pereira Colombia
- Master of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Universidad Cientifica del Sur Lima Peru
- Gilbert and Rose‐Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University Beirut Lebanon
| | - Enver Roshi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine University of Medicine of Tirana Albania
| | | | - Ranjit Sah
- Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Institute of Medicine Kathmandu Nepal
| | - Boris Sakakushev
- RIMU/Research Institute of Medical University Plovdiv Bulgaria
- Chair of Propedeutics of Surgical Diseases
- University Hospital St. George, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Dina E. Sallam
- Pediatrics and Pediatric Nephrology Department Faculty of Medicine Ain Shams University Cairo Egypt
| | - Brijesh Sathian
- Geriatrics and Long Term Care Department Rumailah Hospital Doha Qatar
| | - Patrick Schober
- Department of Anesthesiology Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Amsterdam Netherlands
| | | | | | - Tanu Singhal
- Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Research Institute Mumbai India
| | | | - Marco Solmi
- Department of Psychiatry University of Ottawa Ontario Canada
- Department of Mental Health Ontario Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI) Clinical Epidemiology Program University of Ottawa, Ottawa Ontario Canada
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin Germany
| | - Kannan Subbaram
- School of Medicine, The Maldives National University Male Maldives
| | - Kalthoum Tizaoui
- Laboratory of Microorganisms and Actives Biomolecules, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis University Tunis El Manar Tunis Tunisia
| | - John Thato Tlhakanelo
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health University of Botswana, Faculty of Medicine Gaborone Botswana
| | - Julio Torales
- National University of Asunción, School of Medical Sciences San Lorenzo Paraguay
| | | | | | - Jadamba Tsolmon
- Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS) Ulaanbaatar Mongolia
| | | | | | - Guy Wanghi
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of Kinshasa Faculty of Medicine, Laboratory of Physiology Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Uwe Wollina
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology Städtisches Klinikum Dresden – Academic Teaching Hospital Dresden Germany
| | - Ren‐He Xu
- Faculty of Health Sciences University of Macau Macau China
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Cancer Care Alberta, Alberta Health Services School of Medicine, University of Calgary Calgary Canada
| | - Kashif Zia
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow Glasgow United Kingdom
| | - Muharem Zildzic
- Academy of Medical Science of Bosnia and Herzegovina Sarajevo Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of Pediatrics Yonsei University College of Medicine Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Lee Smith
- Centre for Health Performance and Wellbeing Anglia Ruskin University Cambridge United Kingdom
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Samad Omar A, Ahmad Faiz K, Mir Islam Saeed K, Ahmad Humayoun F, Safi K. Epidemiologic and clinical characteristics of diabetic foot ulcer among patients with diabetes in Afghanistan: An IDF supported initiative. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2023; 196:110227. [PMID: 36543291 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2022.110227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim is to illustrate epidemiological and clinical characteristics of diabetic patients with foot ulcer (DFU) in Kabul diabetic medical center (KDMC), Afghanistan. METHOD It is a descriptive study explaining the characteristics of diabetic patients with DFU admitted to KDMC, between 1/9/2019 to 31/8/2020 which is a center for management of diabetic patients including DFU. The university of Texas diabetic classification for DFU was used. RESULTS Totally 3159 patients admitted to KMDC of whom 47.4% were females and 96.7% type 2 diabetes. The proportion of DFU was 9.2%. The patients' mean age was 55.4 ± 10.6 years and 78% were coming from Kabul. Prevalence of smoking and snuff use were 8.6% and 5.6% respectively. Majority of females 93% were housewives. The duration of diabetes was 5-19 years. Almost two-third were under glycaemia and HbA1c control and 9.2% had history of amputation. The common symptoms were burning, aching, numbness and tingling. The most common cause of DFU was both neuropathy and arteriopathy. After treatment 16% were referred for orthopedic procedures. CONCLUSIONS DFU affects almost one-tenth of diabetics while a significant number of patients attend at late stage requiring orthopedic treatment. Monitoring of diabetic patients to prevent DFU is important is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | | | - Kubra Safi
- Kabul Diabetic Management Center, Afghanistan
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Saeed KMI, Neyazi N, Nabizada K. Knowledge, attitudes, practice of people toward the COVID-19 pandemics, and its impact in Afghanistan. Front Public Health 2022; 10:983197. [PMID: 36466451 PMCID: PMC9716309 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.983197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the social and economic norms. Knowledge, Attitude and Practices studies are used to address the information gap for further strategic decision making to control the pandemic. This study aimed to find the level of Knowledge, Awareness, Attitudes, and behavioral practices of the people of Afghanistan about the COVID-19 and its impact on health and socio-economic dimension of their routine lives. We used a cross-sectional method with two stage sampling design. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v.20. The survey focused on adults including men and women all over the country to represent the country, including the urban and rural areas. Most of the respondents are in the age group of 21-30 years (46.5%); 60.15% of the participants are married. Almost 75% of females and 84% of males were literate and most participants have a bachelor's degree (34%). More than 80% of participants knew they can prevent themselves from contacting COVID-19 through hand washing frequently with soap and water and wearing a mask. More than 80% of participants responded that they would go for a lab test for detection of the virus as well as COVID-19 vaccination if it is available. Almost 35% reported always wearing a mask to prevent COVID-19 transmission; more than half of participants always wash their hands, more than 60% of them do not touch their eyes, nose, and mouth frequently. Nearly 60% of participants indicated that their household had problems satisfying food needs partly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly half of participants believed that the government was successful in applying lockdown measures and in awareness rising (56.8 and 69.8%). The study findings provide some useful insight about the KAP of communities in Afghanistan, which could assist policy makers in public health to design and implement interventions based on the information gaps reported.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Narges Neyazi
- International Campus, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Department of Health System Development, World Health Organization, Kabul, Afghanistan,*Correspondence: Narges Neyazi
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Samy S, Lami F, Rashak HA, Al Nsour M, Eid A, Khader YS, Afifi S, Elfadul M, Ghaleb Y, Letaief H, Alaya NB, Ikram A, Akhtar H, Barkia A, Taha HA, Adam R, Saeed KMI, Almudarra SS, Hassany M, El Sood HA, ur Rahman F, Saaed FAK, Hlaiwah MS. Public health workers' knowledge, attitude and practice regarding COVID-19: the impact of Field Epidemiology Training Program in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 43:iii1-iii11. [PMID: 34580723 PMCID: PMC8500047 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdab240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to compare knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) regarding COVID-19 between public health workers (PHWs) attended field epidemiology training program (FETP-trained) and those who did not attend FETP (non-FETP trained). METHODS Multi-country cross-sectional survey was conducted among PHWs who participated in COVID-19 pandemic in 10 countries at EMR. Online questionnaire that included demographic information, KAP regarding COVID-19 pandemic was distributed among HCWs. Scoring system was used to quantify the answers, bivariate and Multivariate analysis performed to compare FETP-trained with non-FETP trained PHWs. RESULTS Overall, 1337 PHWs participated, with 835 (62.4%) < 40 years of age, and 851 (63.6%) males. Of them, 423 (31.6%) had FETP, including that 189 (44.7%) had advanced level, 155 (36.6%) intermediate and 79 (18.7%) basic level training. Compared with non-FETP trained, FETP trained were older, having higher KAP scores. FETP participation was low in infection control, and PH laboratories. KAP mean scores for intermediate level attendees are comparable to advanced level. CONCLUSIONS FETP-trained are having better KAP than non-FETP PHWs. Expanding the intermediate level, maintain the Rapid Response training and introduce the laboratory component are recommended to maximize the benefit from FETP. Infection control, antimicrobial resistance and coordination are areas where training should include.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Samy
- Communicable Disease Control Department, Preventive sector, Ministry of Health and Population, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Faris Lami
- Community and Family Medicine, University of Baghdad, Iraq
| | | | - Mohannad Al Nsour
- Global Health Development (GHD)|The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET), Amman, Jordan
| | - Alaa Eid
- Preventive sector, Ministry of Health and Population, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yousef S Khader
- Department of Public Health, Jordan University of Science & Technology
| | - Salma Afifi
- Department of Epidemiology and Surveillance, Preventive sector, Ministry of Health and Population, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maisa Elfadul
- Public Health Institute, Federal Ministry of Health, Sudan
| | - Yasser Ghaleb
- Field Epidemiology Training Program, Ministry of Public Health and Population, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Hajer Letaief
- National Observatory of New and Emerging Diseases, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Aamer Ikram
- National Institute of Health, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Hashaam Akhtar
- Yusra Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Yusra Medical and Dental Collage, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Hana Ahmad Taha
- Global Health Development (GHD)|The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET), Amman, Jordan
| | - Reema Adam
- Public Health Institute, Federal Ministry of Health, Sudan
| | | | - Sami S Almudarra
- Field Epidemiology Training Program, Saudi Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Hassany
- National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Ministry of Health and Population, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hanaa Abu El Sood
- Department of Epidemiology and Surveillance, Preventive sector, Ministry of Health and Population, Cairo, Egypt
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Husseini AA, Islam Saeed KM, Yurdcu E, Bozdayı AM. Molecular epidemiology of Hepatitis B virus, Hepatitis C virus, and Hepatitis D virus in general population of Afghanistan. Turk J Gastroenterol 2020; 31:658-666. [PMID: 33090103 DOI: 10.5152/tjg.2020.19169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS This study gives a clue about genotypes, subgenotypes and subtypes of HBV, HCV and HDV viruses in general population of Afghanistan. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 234 HBsAg, 44 anti-HCV and 5 Anti-Delta positive patients belong to 25-70 age group were obtained through a rapid screening test among 5898 residents of Afghanistan. After quantifying viral load, genotyping of 61 HBV, 29 HCV and 1 HDV samples were accomplished by sequencing of a segment of the HBV Pre S, HCV NS5B, and HDV Delta antigen regions respectively. Clinically important variants of the HBV polymerase gene, the "a" determinant of HBsAg, HCV NS5B and NS3 regions were assessed. RESULTS All HBV isolates were dispersed throughout the genotype D branch and ayw2 was the only subtypes found. The anti-HDV prevalence among HBsAg positive individuals was 2.2% and the single HDV sample, belonged to HDV genotype I. Analysis of HCV isolates revealed subtype HCV-1b in 75.86%, HCV-3a in 20.69% and HCV-3b in 3.44% patients. The observed mutant variants in the MHR of HBsAg were Y100 15%, Q101 5%, G102 15%, T115 45%, P120 5%, T131 5%. Likewise, S213T 10%, Q215P 5% and N248H 100% mutations were detected in the HBV polymerase region. C316N mutation was prevalent in 72.7% of HCV 1b participants. CONCLUSION Genotypic variation in Afghan patients is in line with the ones existing in neighboring countries and regions. HBV genotypes D1, subtype ayw2, HDV RNA type I, and HCV RNA genotype 1b are likely to be dominant in Afghan patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Ali Husseini
- Institute of Hepatology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Grant and Service Contract Management Unit (GCMU), Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Esra Yurdcu
- Institute of Hepatology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - A Mithat Bozdayı
- Institute of Hepatology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Saeed KMI, Rasooly MH, Nejaby M. Profile of risk factors for noncommunicable diseases in major cities of Afghanistan: WHO STEPwise approach. East Mediterr Health J 2020; 26:388-399. [PMID: 32338357 DOI: 10.26719/emhj.20.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Background Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a major public health problem worldwide. Despite improvement in the health situation, Afghanistan's health indicators are the worst in the Region. About 37% of Afghan adults die due to NCDs. Aims We aimed to estimate the proportion of major risk factors for NCDs in Afghanistan. Methods We analysed the dataset of studies conducted in 5 provinces, Kabul, Balkh, Hirat, Nangarhar and Kandahar, during 2013-2015, using the WHO STEPwise approach to NCD surveillance. This involved multistage cluster sampling from urban citizens aged 25-70 years. EpiInfo, version 7, and SPSS, version 20, were used for data management. Results In total, 5897 records were included in the analysis; 54% were females. Mean age was 39.56 (standard deviation12.29) years; illiteracy rate was 61.5% and 83.2% were married. Smoking and snuff use was 8% and 11.1% respectively. On average the subjects were consuming fruits 2.76 and vegetable 3.85 days per week. Overweight, general and abdominal obesity was 19%, 33.7% and 57.1% respectively. Typically, 32.4% had high blood pressure and 12.5% had high blood sugar. Conclusions The modifiable risk factors of NCDs were prevalent in the major cities of the country. Their identification is vital in attempting to focus on prevalence of NCDs in urban cities. Tailored interventions are needed to focus on NCDs in Afghanistan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Muhammad Hafiz Rasooly
- Influenza Surveillance Unit, Evaluation and Health Information System, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Malalai Nejaby
- Helping Mothers and Children Thrive Project (HEMAYAT), Johns Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Kabul, Afghanistan
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Saeed KMI, Atta N, Nazri T. Investigation and control of measles outbreak in Puli-Khumri and Baghlan-Markazi Districts, Baghlan province, Afghanistan: a teaching case-study. Pan Afr Med J 2020. [DOI: 10.11604/pamj.supp.2020.36.1.24761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Husseini AA, Saeed KMI, Yurdcu E, Sertoz R, Bozdayi AM. Epidemiology of blood-borne viral infections in Afghanistan. Arch Virol 2019; 164:2083-2090. [PMID: 31134354 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-019-04285-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Although a few studies have been done on transmissible blood-borne viral infections in high-risk groups, little attention has been given to assessing the infection status of the general population in Afghanistan. To investigate the epidemiological status in the general population, we tested the serological markers of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis delta virus (HDV), human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) and human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV) infections. In total, 492 samples were selected randomly from Nangarhar, Herat, Mazar-e Sharif, Kandahar, and Kabul from subjects between 25 and 70 years old. The samples were tested for the presence of HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc, anti-HDV, anti-HCV, anti-HIV-1 and anti-HTLV I/II antibodies using chemiluminescent immunoassays on Abbott Architect automated platforms. In addition, 220 HBsAg-positive samples identified among 5897 samples from the general population of the same regions of Afghanistan were included in the study and tested for both HBsAg and anti-HDV to investigate HDV prevalence in the country. Viral loads of HBV, HCV and HDV were determined in all seropositive samples using Ampliprep/Cobas TaqMan HBV, HCV, Test Roche (CA, USA), and an in-house method, respectively. Out of 492 samples, 31 (6.3%), 136 (27.6%) and 149 (30.3%) were found to be positive for HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HBc, respectively. Anti-HDV positivity was detected in five (2.1%) out of 234 HBsAg-positive samples (including 14 of the randomly selected samples that were not among the 220 previously identified as HBsAg positive). Only eight out of 492 (1.6%) subjects were positive for anti-HCV antibodies. Seven out of 489 (1.4%) were positive for anti-HIV-1 antibodies, and three out of 466 cases (0.6%) were positive for anti-HTLV I/II antibodies. These results suggest that Afghanistan is an intermediate endemic region for HBV, HDV and HCV infection. The prevalence of HIV-1 seems to be significantly higher than the global prevalence and that of the eastern Mediterranean region. In addition, the HTLV I/II screening results suggest that these viruses should be monitored in Afghanistan to confirm the trend observed in the current study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Ali Husseini
- Institute of Hepatology, Ankara University, School of Medicine, Cebeci Hospitals, Dikimevi, 06620, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Grant and Service Contract Management Unit (GCMU), Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Esra Yurdcu
- Institute of Hepatology, Ankara University, School of Medicine, Cebeci Hospitals, Dikimevi, 06620, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Rüçhan Sertoz
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - A Mithat Bozdayi
- Institute of Hepatology, Ankara University, School of Medicine, Cebeci Hospitals, Dikimevi, 06620, Ankara, Turkey.
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Qarani WM, Jan R, Saeed KMI, Khymani L. Challenges on-the-way of nursing administration at public hospitals in Kabul, Afghanistan. J Nurs Manag 2017; 26:420-424. [PMID: 29068096 DOI: 10.1111/jonm.12558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine the challenges faced by the nursing administration at public hospitals in Kabul, Afghanistan. METHODS A cross-sectional study design was used to recruit 86 nursing managers and head nurses from 17 public hospitals in Kabul. The participants rated the frequency of 13 challenges that hinder their performance. RESULTS There were 14 nursing managers and 72 head nurses in the study. Almost 80% of the participants were male with the majority falling in the 35-44 year age bracket. Both nursing managers and head nurses were equally affected by all 13 challenges, except the lack of recognition where head nurses were affected more than the nursing managers (p = .003). The most frequent challenges for both were staff absenteeism and then too many responsibilities. CONCLUSION There are multiple challenges that hinder the performance of nursing administration that need to be addressed through appropriate national policy and strategies. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT The findings of this study can inform policy makers and draw their attention to overcome the challenges faced by nursing management. This will ultimately improve satisfaction leading to improved patient and organisational outcome. The national policy and strategy should address areas that could enable nurses to maintain a balance between household and professional responsibilities; and also encourage the enrolment of female nurses in the profession.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafat Jan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Aga Khan University School of Nursing and Midwifery (AKU-SoNaM), Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Laila Khymani
- Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Karachi, Pakistan
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetes is reaching epidemic levels in Afghanistan. This study identifies the risk factors associated with diabetes in Herat City, Afghanistan, and explores the prevalence of previously undiagnosed diabetes. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted using multistage cluster sampling by adopting the World Health Organization's (WHO) STEPwise approach to Surveillance (STEPS). We enrolled 1129 participants aged 25-70 years between May and June of 2015 (47.4% males, 52.6% females). A structured questionnaire was used for data collection of demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral factors. Investigators collected anthropometric measurements and blood samples from study participants. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with diabetes prevalence. RESULTS We found that the prevalence of diabetes in Herat City was 9.9% (9.8% in males and 10.1% in females). Of the 1129 respondents, only 3.3% were previously diagnosed with diabetes or were under treatment, whereas 6.6% of respondents were previously undiagnosed. The multivariable analyses showed that age, frequency of rice consumption, type of cooking oil, and systolic blood pressure were associated with diabetes. CONCLUSIONS This is one of the first studies to discuss the high prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes in Herat, Afghanistan. This study found several modifiable factors that were associated with diabetes in Herat, Afghanistan. Future reduction of disease burden should focus on these factors in the development of the most optimal diabetes prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Grant and Service Contract Management Unit, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
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15
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Saeed KMI, Rasooly MH, Alkozai A. Prevalence of risk factors for noncommunicable diseases in Jalalabad city, Afghanistan, evaluated using the WHO STEPwise approach. East Mediterr Health J 2016; 21:783-790. [PMID: 26857715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a growing public health challenge. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of common risk factors for NCDs among the adult population an urban setting in the eastern province of Nangarhar, Afghanistan. In a randomized, cluster sample survey of households the WHO STEPwise method was modified and used to collect demographic, behavioural and clinical data from 1200 adults (61% females) in Jalalabad in 2013. Blood samples were collected for biochemical testing. The prevalence of overweight/obesity, diabetes and hypertension were 57.4%, 11.4% and 24.4% respectively. Among respondents, 8.0% reported being current cigarette smokers and 13.7% used mouth snuff; 69.8% and 19.6% had < 3 servings of fruits and of vegetables respectively in a week; and 33.5% and 57.8% reported vigorous and moderate physical activity respectively. Tailored interventions on risk factors of NCDs are needed in urban areas in Afghanistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M I Saeed
- Afghan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - M H Rasooly
- Afghan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - A Alkozai
- Afghan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension affects an estimated one billion people, worldwide. It is a public health challenge characterized by increased morbidity, mortality, as well as cost to the community and health systems. The goal of this study is to determine the prevalence of hypertension and characterize associated risk factors in an urban setting in Afghanistan. METHODS A cross-sectional study of adults aged 25-65 years was conducted in Jalalabad city from May to June 2013 using the World Health Organization STEPwise approach to surveillance (WHO STEPS). A multistage technique was used to enroll 1,200 participants in the study. Demographic and socio-economic variables were collected via individual interviews using the WHO STEPS survey, after which blood samples were collected using a locally developed standard operating procedure (SOP). Bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed to explore the association between hypertension and associated factors. RESULTS A total of 1,180 adults (40% males, 60% females) of 25-65 years of age were surveyed. The response rate was 98.5 % and the prevalence of hypertension was 28.4. Independent risk factors of hypertension were found to be: age ≥ 50 (AOR = 3.42, 95% CI: 2.50 - 4.76); sex (AOR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.38 - 0.88); obesity (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.49 - 2.94); and diabetes (AOR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.10 - 2.79). Independent protective factors were physically demanding occupations (AOR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.36 - 0.85); physical activity itself (AOR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.47 - 0.99) and consuming more vegetables (AOR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.38 - 0.93). CONCLUSION This urban setting in Afghanistan evidenced a high prevalence of hypertension; age, obesity, and diabetes were identified as risk factors and physical activity and consuming more vegetables were protective. These findings have implications for future public health intervention and clinical efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
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Saeed KMI, Rasooly MH, Brown NJW. Prevalence and predictors of adult hypertension in Kabul, Afghanistan. BMC Public Health 2014; 14:386. [PMID: 24754870 PMCID: PMC4047782 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2013] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of hypertension is rising worldwide with an estimated one billion people now affected globally and is of near epidemic proportions in many parts of South Asia. Recent turmoil has until recently precluded estimates in Afghanistan so we sought, therefore, to establish both prevalence predictors in our population. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of adults ≥40 years of age in Kabul from December 2011-March 2012 using a multistage sampling method. Additional data on socioeconomic and lifestyle factors were collected as well as an estimate of glycaemic control. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were undertaken to explore the association between hypertension and potential predictors. Results A total of 1183 adults (men 396, women 787) of ≥ 40years of age were assessed. The prevalence of hypertension was 46.2% (95% CI 43.5 – 49.3). Independent predictors of hypertension were found to be: age ≥50 (OR = 3.86, 95% CI: 2.86 – 5.21); illiteracy (OR = 1.90, 1.05 – 1.90); the consumption of rice >3 times per week (OR = 1.43, 1.07 – 1.91); family history of diabetes (OR = 2.20, 1.30 – 3.75); central obesity (OR = 1.67, 1.23 – 2.27); BMI ≥ 30 Kg/meter squared (OR = 2.08, 1.50 – 2.89). The consumption of chicken and fruit more than three times per week were protective with ORs respectively of 0.73 (0.55-0.97) and 0.64 (0.47 – 0.86). Conclusions Hypertension is a major public health problem in Afghan adults. We have identified a number of predictors which have potential for guiding interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Surveillance/DEWS Directorate, Afghan National Public Health Institute (ANPHI), Ministry of Public Health, 3rd Floor, Room # 9, Massoud Square, Kabul, Afghanistan.
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Saeed KMI, Ahadi J, Sahak MN, Ghiasi AF, Ashgar RJ. Concurrent Brucellosis and Q Fever Infection: a Case Control Study in Bamyan Province, Afghanistan. Cent Asian J Glob Health 2014; 2:58. [PMID: 29755882 PMCID: PMC5927743 DOI: 10.5195/cajgh.2013.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 500,000 people are affected by brucellosis each year while the incidence of Q fever is poorly recorded. Consistent outbreaks of brucellosis have been reported in Afghanistan, affecting social and economic life. This study aimed to determine the means of propagation of brucellosis and Q-fever and establish appropriate control measures for both. METHODS AND MATERIALS An outbreak of 1,317 cases of brucellosis and Q fever was investigated from May 2011 to the end of 2012 in Bamyan province of Afghanistan. A total of 100 cases were selected by random sampling with equal number of neighbor controls. Data were collected through structured questionnaire. RESULTS The average age was 30 years ±14 years. Of those sampled, 62% were female, 38% were male, and resided in three districts: Punjab, Yakawlang and Waras. Using multivariate analysis, being a housewife (OR=7.36), being within proximity of kitchens to barns (OR= 2.98), drinking un-boiled milk (OR= 5.26), butchering (OR= 3.53) and purchasing new animals in the last six months (OR= 3.53) were significantly associated with contraction of brucellosis and Q fever. CONCLUSION Health educators should focus on families dealing with animals, especially on females. Pasturing, healthy milking, dunging, and slaughtering practices, along with use of safe dairy products should be the focus of preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Jamalludin Ahadi
- Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-Communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global problem. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of common risk factors for NCDs among the adult population in urban areas of Kabul city, Afghanistan. METHODS AND MATERIALS This study was conducted from December 2011 through March 2012 and involved a survey of 1169 respondents, aged 40 years and above. Multistage cluster sampling was used for participant selection, followed by random sampling of the participants. The World Health Organization STEPwise approachfor Surveillance (STEPS) was modified and used for this study. RESULTS The overall prevalence of smoking was 5.1% (14.7% men versus 0.3% women) and using mouth snuff was 24.4% in men and 1.3% in women. The prevalence of obesity and hypertension were 19.1% and 45.2 % in men and 37.3% and 46.5% in women. Prevalence of diabetes was 16.1% in men and 12% in women. The overall prevalence of obesity, hypertension and diabetes mellitus was 31.2%, 46% and 13.3%, respectively. On average, subjects consumed 3.37 servings of fruit and 2.96 servings of leafy vegetables per week. Mean walking and sitting hours per week (as proxies for physical activity) were 19.4 and 20.5, respectively. A multivariate model demonstrated that age was a significant risk factor for obesity (OR=1.86), diabetes (OR=2/09) and hypertension (OR=4.1). Obesity was significantly associated with sex (OR=1.65). CONCLUSION These results highlight the need for interventions to reduce and prevent risk factors of non-communicable diseases in urban areas of Kabul City, Afghanistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
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Saeed KMI, Bano R, Asghar RJ. Evaluation of the national tuberculosis surveillance system in Afghanistan. East Mediterr Health J 2013; 19:200-207. [PMID: 23516833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Afghanistan has 2 tuberculosis surveillance systems, the National Tuberculosis Control Programme (NTP) and the Health Management Information System (HMIS). An evaluation of these surveillance systems in January/ February 2010 was done to identify their strengths and weaknesses and to formulate recommendations. Attributes of the programmes were evaluated using US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Usefulness and flexibility of the NTP system were good; stability, representativeness and data quality were average. Simplicity, acceptability and timeliness were poor. Reporting delays regularly exceeded 3 months. Positive predictive value and sensitivity were 11% and 70% respectively. The HMIS system was simple, acceptable and stable, with timely reporting. Reporting and feedback were good, as this system has strong government support. Flexibility, data quality and representativeness were average. Positive predictive value and sensitivity were 10% and 68% respectively. No outbreaks were detected by ther system. The NTP and HMIS surveillance systems are duplicative and neither covers the private sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M I Saeed
- Afghanistan Notional Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan.
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Saeed KMI, Mofleh J, Hafiz Rasooly M, Iabal Aman M. Occurrence of acute respiratory infection, diarrhea and jaundice among Afghan pilgrims, 2010. J Epidemiol Glob Health 2012; 2:215-20. [PMID: 23856503 PMCID: PMC7320324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jegh.2012.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Revised: 11/23/2012] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Annually 30,000 Afghans attend the Hajj in Saudi Arabia that is one of the largest mass gathering events in the world. We aimed to determine the prevalence of three syndromes of interest diarrhea, acute respiratory infections (ARI) and jaundice-among Hajjis gathering at the four transit sites in Afghanistan before, during, and after their voyage. METHODS A total of 1659 Hajjis at four transit sites were selected and included a cross-sectional study. Information was collected prior Hajjis departure and upon their return from Saudi Arabia regarding demographics and experience of diarrhea, ARI and jaundice. Standardized case definitions were used for the three health outcomes of interest. RESULTS The occurrence of diarrhea and jaundice remained constant over time. However, ARI increased from 1.4% at pre-transit to 4% at transit area and 37% during the Hajj. ARI rates among residents from the Central and Northern regions of Afghanistan were significantly higher at the post-Hajj stage, at 50% and 69%, respectively. There was no difference in ARI by sex among Hajjis. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to review the quality and effectiveness of the flu vaccine. Authorities should come up with the sound strategies to overcome ARI problems during Hajj.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Jawad Mofleh
- Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET), Amman, Jordan
| | - M. Hafiz Rasooly
- Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - M. Iabal Aman
- Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
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