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Nampijja M, Kitsao-Wekulo P, Hughes RC, Griffiths P, Elsey H. Editorial: Day-care for healthy child development and wider social and economic gain in urban areas in low- and middle income countries. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1386958. [PMID: 38590807 PMCID: PMC11000632 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1386958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Robert C. Hughes
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paula Griffiths
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Elsey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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Okelo K, Murray AL, King J, Kitsao-Wekulo P, Onyango S, Nampijja M, Auyeung B. Parental stress and child stimulation practices: examining associations with child developmental outcomes over time in Kenya and Zambia. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:50. [PMID: 38279153 PMCID: PMC10811884 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01533-y] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parental stress often arises when parenting demands exceed the expected and actual resources available for parents to succeed in the parenting role. Parental stress is an important contributor to parent-child relationships. This, in turn, affects opportunities to engage their children in stimulating activities which could improve their development outcomes. However, limited evidence exists from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) on the association between parental stress, caregiving practices, and child developmental outcomes. METHODS The findings reported in this paper were derived from data collected through previous longitudinal work on nurturing care evaluation studies in Kisumu and Nairobi Counties in Kenya, and Chisamba District in Zambia. A total of 341 caregivers and their children who participated in the three rounds of data collection were included in this study. The children's mean age was 9.3 (SD = 8.2) months pre-intervention, 25.5 (SD = 8.6) months in mid-intervention, and 36 (SD = 10.0) months post-intervention. The Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), Parental Stress Scale (PSS), and caregiving tools were used to assess children's developmental outcomes, parental stress, and stimulation practices, respectively. A Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel model (RI-CLPM) was used to determine the association between caregivers' parenting stress, child stimulation practices, and child developmental outcomes. RESULTS The findings showed that caregiver stimulation practices were positively associated with developmental outcomes. Findings on the associations between parental stress and caregivers' stimulation practices and children's developmental outcomes were not universally supported. CONCLUSION The findings show that improved caregiver stimulation practices are likely to improve children's developmental outcomes. The policy implications of the findings from this study focus on improving parenting practices by addressing the predictors of parental stress. This includes subsidising childcare services to reduce costs. TRIAL REGISTRATION Pan African Clinical Trials Registry ( https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/ ) database (ID number: PACTR20180774832663 Date: 26/July/2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Okelo
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 7 George Square, EH8 9JZ, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Aja Louise Murray
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 7 George Square, EH8 9JZ, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Josiah King
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 7 George Square, EH8 9JZ, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Silas Onyango
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Bonnie Auyeung
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 7 George Square, EH8 9JZ, Edinburgh, UK
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Nampijja M, Langat N, Oloo L, Okelo K, Muendo R, Kiyeng M, Amboka P, Abboah-Offei M, Ray A, Kitsao-Wekulo P, Kimani-Murage EW, Elsey H. Predictors of quality of childcare centers in low-income settings: findings from a cross-sectional study in two Nairobi slums. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1163491. [PMID: 38026308 PMCID: PMC10644197 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1163491] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rapid urbanization and increased women's involvement in paid work have contributed to the upsurge of informal childcare centers, especially in low-income settings where quality is a major issue. However, there are limited data on the factors associated with the quality of childcare centers in informal settlements in Africa. Methods We conducted a quantitative observation and questionnaire survey of 66 childcare centers to identify the factors associated with the quality of childcare services in two informal settlements (Korogocho and Viwandani) in Nairobi. The quality of the centers (outcome variable) was assessed using a locally developed tool. Data on center characteristics including type, size, location, length of operation, charges, and number of staff were collected. Center providers' knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) in childcare were assessed through a questionnaire, focusing on nurturing care and business management. Data were described using means and standard deviation or frequencies and percentages. Associations between quality center score (outcome variable) and other variables were examined using multivariable linear regression to identify potential predictors of the quality of the center environment. Findings A total of 129 childcare centers were identified and categorized as home-based (n = 45), center-based (n = 14), school-based (n = 61), and church-based (n = 9). The number of home-based centers was particularly high in Viwandani (n = 40; 52%). Only 9% of home-based centers reported any external support and 20% had any training on early childhood development. Of the 129 centers, 66 had complete detailed assessment of predictors of quality reported here. Unadjusted linear regressions revealed associations between quality of childcare center and center providers' education level, type of center, support received, caregiver-child ratio, number of children in the center, and center providers' KAP score (p < 0.05). However, in the multivariable regression, only higher levels of center provider KAP (β = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.18, 0.84; p = 0.003) and center type (β = 8.68; 95% CI: 2.32, 15.04; p = 0.008) were significantly associated with center quality score. Implication Our results show that center providers' knowledge and practices are a major driver of the quality of childcare centers in informal settlements in Nairobi. Interventions for improving the quality of childcare services in such settings should invest in equipping center providers with the necessary knowledge and skills through training and supportive supervision.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nelson Langat
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linda Oloo
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Okelo
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ruth Muendo
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Patrick Amboka
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Abboah-Offei
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Ray
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Helen Elsey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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Wambui E, Nampijja M, Okelo KO, Muendo R, Onyango S, Kimani-Murage EW, Kitsao-Wekulo P. Perceptions of the influence of a mobile phone-based messaging platform on caregiver ECD knowledge, attitudes and practices: a qualitative exploration in an informal settlement in Nairobi. BMC Prim Care 2023; 24:187. [PMID: 37710157 PMCID: PMC10502968 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02127-0] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Programs supporting initiatives for children younger than three years are inadequate and not accessible to many families, particularly in resource-limited settings. Many primary caregivers have little knowledge on how to monitor the development of their children or the importance of engaging children in stimulative activities during the course of early development. Health system limitations make it difficult for health workers to educate and demonstrate stimulative engagement to caregivers. The massive use of technology can be used to facilitate access to growth and development programs for children. We developed and implemented a mobile phone technology to help caregivers monitor and stimulate their children's development in real-time. This study explored the influence that this intervention had on the caregivers' early child development (ECD) knowledge, attitudes and practices. METHODS In this qualitative cross-sectional study, we conducted interviews through eight (8) focus group discussions, three (3) key informant interviews and 9 indepth interviews among a total of 111 participants including primary caregivers (n = 87), community health volunteers (CHVs) (n = 21) health managers and workers (n = 3) to determine their attitudes and experience with the intervention with regards to improving their KAP. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. RESULTS Caregivers and CHVs reported that the intervention had provided them with new knowledge that positively influenced their ECD caregiving attitudes and practices. CHVs and health workers and managers reported that the intervention had provided caregivers with confidence in caring for their children while increasing their knowledge on how to monitor and stimulate their children's development. CONCLUSION Mobile phone technology can be effectively used to enhance caregivers' knowledge of ECD and enable them to monitor and support their children's development in real-time. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was registered with the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry ( www.pactr.org ) database (ID number: PACTR201905787868050 Date: 6/05/2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Wambui
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Odhiambo Okelo
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ruth Muendo
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Silas Onyango
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth W Kimani-Murage
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Patricia Kitsao-Wekulo
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
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Nampijja M, Langat N, Oloo L, Amboka P, Okelo K, Muendo R, Habib S, Kiyeng M, Ray A, Abboah-Offei M, Kitsao-Wekulo P, Kimani-Murage E, Li J, Elsey H. The feasibility, acceptability, cost and benefits of a "communities of practice" model for improving the quality of childcare centres: a mixed-methods study in the informal settlements in Nairobi. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1194978. [PMID: 37588124 PMCID: PMC10426909 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1194978] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Informal childcare centres have mushroomed in the informal settlements of Nairobi, Kenya to meet the increasing demand. However, centre providers are untrained and the facilities are below standard putting children at risk of poor health and development. We aimed to co-design and test the feasibility, acceptability, cost and potential benefits of a communities of practice (CoP) model where trained community health volunteers (CHVs) provide group training sessions to build skills and improve practices in informal childcare centres. Methods A CoP model was co-designed with sub-county health teams, centre providers and parents with inputs from Kidogo, government nutritionists and ECD experts and implemented in 68 childcare centres by trained CHVs. Its feasibility and potential benefits were measured quantitatively and qualitatively. Centre provider (n = 68) and CHV (n = 20) knowledge and practice scores before and after the intervention were assessed and compared. Intervention benefits were examined using linear regressions adjusting for potential confounding factors. We conducted in-depth interviews with 10 parents, 10 CHVs, 10 centre providers and 20 local government officials, and two focus groups with CHVs and centre providers. Qualitative data were analysed, focusing on feasibility, acceptability, potential benefits, challenges and ideas for improvement. Cost for delivering and accessing the intervention were examined. Results The intervention was acceptable and feasible to deliver within existing government community health systems; 16 CHVs successfully facilitated CoP sessions to 58 centre providers grouped into 13 groups each with 5-6 centre providers, each group receiving four sessions representing the four modules. There were significant improvements in provider knowledge and practice (effect size = 0.40; p < 0.05) and quality of centre environment (effect size = 0.56; p < 0.01) following the intervention. CHVs' scores showed no significant changes due to pre-existing high knowledge levels. Qualitative interviews also reported improvements in knowledge and practices and the desire among the different participants for the support to be continued. The total explicit costs were USD 22,598 and the total opportunity costs were USD 3,632 (IQR; USD 3,570, USD 4,049). Conclusion A simple model delivered by CHVs was feasible and has potential to improve the quality of informal childcare centres. Leveraging these teams and integration of the intervention into the health system is likely to enable scale-up and sustainability in Kenya and similar contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nelson Langat
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linda Oloo
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Patrick Amboka
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Okelo
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ruth Muendo
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Anna Ray
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
| | - Mary Abboah-Offei
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Jinshuo Li
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Elsey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
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Oloo L, Elsey H, Abboah-Offei M, Kiyeng M, Amboka P, Okelo K, Kitsao-Wekulo P, Kimani-Murage E, Langa't N, Nampijja M. Developing an intervention to improve the quality of childcare centers in resource-poor urban settings: a mixed methods study in Nairobi, Kenya. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1195460. [PMID: 37529428 PMCID: PMC10387541 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1195460] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, 350 million under-5s do not have adequate childcare. This may damage their health and development and undermine societal and economic development. Rapid urbanization is changing patterns of work, social structures, and gender norms. Parents, mainly mothers, work long hours for insecure daily wages. To respond to increasing demand, childcare centers have sprung up in informal settlements. However, there is currently little or no support to ensure they provide safe, nurturing care accessible to low-income families. Here, we present the process of co-designing an intervention, delivered by local government community health teams to improve the quality of childcare centers and ultimately the health and development of under-5 children in informal settlements in Kenya. Methods This mixed methods study started with a rapid mapping of the location and basic characteristics of all childcare centers in two informal settlements in Nairobi. Qualitative interviews were conducted with parents and grandparents (n = 44), childcare providers, and community health teams (n = 44). A series of 7 co-design workshops with representatives from government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community health teams, and childcare providers were held to design the intervention. Questionnaires to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of community health volunteers (n = 22) and childcare center providers (n = 66) were conducted. Results In total, 129 childcare centers were identified -55 in Korogocho and 77 in Viwandani. School-based providers dominated in Korogocho (73%) while home-based centers were prevalent in Viwandani (53%). All centers reported minimal support from any organization (19% supported) and this was particularly low among home-based (9%) and center-based (14%) providers. Home-based center providers were the least likely to be trained in early childhood development (20%), hence the co-designed intervention focused on supporting these centers. All co-design stakeholders agreed that with further training, community health volunteers were well placed to support these informal centers. Findings showed that given the context of informal settlements, support for strengthening management within the centers in addition to the core domains of WHO's Nurturing Care Framework was required as a key component of the intervention. Conclusion Implementing a co-design process embedded within existing community health systems and drawing on the lived experiences of childcare providers and parents in informal settlements facilitated the development of an intervention with the potential for scalability and sustainability. Such interventions are urgently needed as the number of home-based and small center-based informal childcare centers is growing rapidly to meet the demand; yet, they receive little support to improve quality and are largely unregulated. Childcare providers, and government and community health teams were able to co-design an intervention delivered within current public community health structures to support centers in improving nurturing care. Further research on the effectiveness and sustainability of support to private and informal childcare centers in the context of low-income urban neighborhoods is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Oloo
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen Elsey
- Hull and York Medical School and Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Mary Abboah-Offei
- Hull and York Medical School and Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Patrick Amboka
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Okelo
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Nelson Langa't
- African Population and Health Research Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
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Katumba KR, Tann CJ, Webb EL, Tenywa P, Nampijja M, Seeley J, Greco G. The economic burden incurred by families caring for a young child with developmental disability in Uganda. PLOS Glob Public Health 2023; 3:e0000953. [PMID: 37075043 PMCID: PMC10115281 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Each year, nearly 30 million children globally are at risk of developmental difficulties and disability as a result of newborn health conditions, with the majority living in resource-constrained countries. This study estimates the annual cost to families related to caring for a young child with developmental disability in Uganda. Nested within a feasibility trial of early care and support for young children with developmental disabilities, this sub-study estimated the cost of illness, the cost of paternal abandonment of the caregiver and the affordability of care by household. Seventy-three caregivers took part in this sub-study. The average annual cost of illness to families was USD 949. The main cost drivers were the cost of seeking care and income lost due to loss of employment. Households caring for a child with a disability spent more than the national average household expenditure, and the annual cost of illness for all households was more than 100% of the national GDP per capita. In addition, 84% of caregivers faced economic consequences and resorted to wealth-reducing coping strategies. Families caring for a child with severe impairment incurred USD 358 more on average than those with mild or moderate impairment. Paternal abandonment was common (31%) with affected mothers losing an average of USD 430 in financial support. Caring for a young child with developmental disability was unaffordable to all the study households. Programmes of early care and support have the potential to reduce these financial impacts. National efforts to curb this catastrophic health expenditure are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth R. Katumba
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cally J. Tann
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Neonatal Medicine, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily L. Webb
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick Tenywa
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Janet Seeley
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Greco
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Babikako HM, Bourdon C, Mbale E, Aber P, Birabwa A, Chimoyo J, Voskuijl W, Kazi Z, Massara P, Mukisa J, Mupere E, Nampijja M, Saleem AF, Uebelhoer LS, Bandsma R, Walson JL, Berkley JA, Lancioni C, Gladstone M, van den Heuvel M. Neurodevelopment and Recovery From Wasting. Pediatrics 2022; 150:189663. [PMID: 36193695 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-055615] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Acute illness with malnutrition is a common indication for hospitalization among children in low- and middle-income countries. We investigated the association between wasting recovery trajectories and neurodevelopmental outcomes in young children 6 months after hospitalization for an acute illness. METHODS Children aged 2 to 23 months were enrolled in a prospective observational cohort of the Childhood Acute Illness & Nutrition Network, in Uganda, Malawi, and Pakistan between January 2017 and January 2019. We grouped children on the basis of their wasting recovery trajectories using change in mid-upper arm circumference for age z-score. Neurodevelopment was assessed with the Malawi Developmental Assessment Tool (MDAT development-for-age z-score [DAZ]) at hospital discharge and after 6 months. RESULTS We included 645 children at hospital discharge (mean age 12.3 months ± 5.5; 55% male); 262 (41%) with severe wasting, 134 (21%) with moderate wasting, and 249 (39%) without wasting. Four recovery trajectories were identified: high-stable, n = 112; wasted-improved, n = 404; severely wasted-greatly improved, n = 48; and severely wasted-not improved, n = 28. The children in the severely wasted-greatly improved group demonstrated a steep positive MDAT-DAZ recovery slope. This effect was most evident in children with both wasting and stunting (interaction wasted-improved × time × stunting: P < .001). After 6 months, the MDAT DAZ in children with wasting recovery did not differ from community children. In children who never recovered from wasting, there remained a significant delay in MDAT DAZ scores. CONCLUSIONS Neurodevelopment recovery occurred in parallel with wasting recovery in children convalescing from acute illness and was influenced by stunting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Celine Bourdon
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Translational Medicine
| | - Emmie Mbale
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Peace Aber
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Makerere University, Uganda Case Western Reserve University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Annet Birabwa
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Makerere University, Uganda Case Western Reserve University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Josephine Chimoyo
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Wieger Voskuijl
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Child Health and Development Center School of Medicine College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Centre for Global Health.,Amsterdam Center for Global health, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Paraskevi Massara
- Translational Medicine.,Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine
| | - John Mukisa
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Departments of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Pathology.,Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Ezekiel Mupere
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Makerere University, Uganda Case Western Reserve University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda.,Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,MRC/UVRI & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ali Faisal Saleem
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Pediatrics, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Luke S Uebelhoer
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Robert Bandsma
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Translational Medicine.,Centre for Global Health.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Judd L Walson
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - James A Berkley
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Christina Lancioni
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Melissa Gladstone
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Clinical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Meta van den Heuvel
- Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network, Nairobi, Kenya.,Centre for Global Health.,Division of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Canada
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Abboah-Offei M, Amboka P, Nampijja M, Owino GE, Okelo K, Kitsao-Wekulo P, Chumo I, Muendo R, Oloo L, Wanjau M, Mwaniki E, Mutisya M, Haycraft E, Hughes R, Griffiths P, Elsey H. Improving early childhood development in the context of the nurturing care framework in Kenya: A policy review and qualitative exploration of emerging issues with policy makers. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1016156. [PMID: 36238244 PMCID: PMC9551223 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1016156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Nurturing Care Framework (NCF) describes "nurturing care" as the ability of nations and communities to support caregivers and provide an environment that ensures children's good health and nutrition, protects them from threats, and provides opportunities for early learning through responsive and emotionally supportive interaction. We assessed the extent to which Kenyan government policies address the components of the NCF and explored policy/decision makers' views on policy gaps and emerging issues. Methods A search strategy was formulated to identify policy documents focusing on early childhood development (ECD), health and nutrition, responsive caregiving, opportunities for early learning and security and safety, which are key components of the NCF. We limited the search to policy documents published since 2010 when the Kenya constitution was promulgated and ECD functions devolved to county governments. Policy/decision-maker interviews were also conducted to clarify emerging gaps from policy data. Data was extracted, coded and analyzed based on the components of the NCF. Framework analysis was used for interview data with NCF being the main framework of analysis. The Jaccard's similarity coefficient was used to assess similarities between the themes being compared to further understand the challenges, successes and future plans of policy and implementation under each of the NCF domains. Results 127 policy documents were retrieved from government e-repository and county websites. Of these, n = 91 were assessed against the inclusion criteria, and n = 66 were included in final analysis. The 66 documents included 47 County Integrated Development Plans (CIDPs) and 19 national policy documents. Twenty policy/decision-maker interviews were conducted. Analysis of both policy and interview data reveal that, while areas of health and nutrition have been considered in policies and county level plans (coefficients >0.5), the domains of early learning, responsive caregiving and safety and security face significant policy and implementation gaps (coefficients ≤ 0.5), particularly for the 0-3 year age group. Inconsistencies were noted between county level implementation plans and national policies in areas such as support for children with disabilities and allocation of budget to early learning and nutrition domains. Conclusion Findings indicate a strong focus on nutrition and health with limited coverage of responsive caregiving and opportunities for early learning domains. Therefore, if nurturing care goals are to be achieved in Kenya, policies are needed to support current gaps identified with urgent need for policies of minimum standards that provide support for improvements across all Nurturing Care Framework domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Abboah-Offei
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Mary Abboah-Offei
| | - Patrick Amboka
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Kenneth Okelo
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Ivy Chumo
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ruth Muendo
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linda Oloo
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Maryann Wanjau
- Community Engagement Associate, UNICEF, Greater Houston, TX, United States
| | - Elizabeth Mwaniki
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Maurice Mutisya
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Emma Haycraft
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Hughes
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paula Griffiths
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Elsey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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10
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Nanyunja C, Sadoo S, Kohli-Lynch M, Nalugya R, Nyonyintono J, Muhumuza A, Katumba KR, Trautner E, Magnusson B, Kabugo D, Cowan FM, Zuurmond M, Morgan C, Lester D, Seeley J, Webb EL, Otai C, Greco G, Nampijja M, Tann CJ. Early care and support for young children with developmental disabilities and their caregivers in Uganda: The Baby Ubuntu feasibility trial. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:981976. [PMID: 36177453 PMCID: PMC9513138 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.981976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Early care and support provision for young children with developmental disabilities is frequently lacking, yet has potential to improve child and family outcomes, and is crucial for promoting access to healthcare and early education. We evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, early evidence of impact and provider costs of the Baby Ubuntu participatory, peer-facilitated, group program for young children with developmental disabilities and their caregivers in Uganda. Materials and methods A feasibility trial, with two parallel groups, compared Baby Ubuntu with standard care. Caregivers and children, aged 6-11 months with moderate-severe neurodevelopmental impairment, were recruited and followed for 12 months. Quantitative and qualitative methods captured information on feasibility (ability to recruit), acceptability (satisfactory attendance), preliminary evidence of impact (family quality of life) and provider costs. Results One hundred twenty-six infants (median developmental quotient, 28.7) were recruited and randomized (63 per arm) over 9 months, demonstrating feasibility; 101 (80%) completed the 12-month follow-up assessment (9 died, 12 were lost to follow up, 4 withdrew). Of 63 randomized to the intervention, 59 survived (93%); of these, 51 (86%) attended ≥6 modules meeting acceptability criteria, and 49 (83%) completed the 12 month follow-up assessment. Qualitatively, Baby Ubuntu was feasible and acceptable to caregivers and facilitators. Enabling factors included community sensitization by local champions, positive and caring attitudes of facilitators toward children with disability, peer support, and the participatory approach to learning. Among 101 (86%) surviving children seen at 12 months, mixed methods evaluation provided qualitative evidence of impact on family knowledge, skills, and attitudes, however impact on a scored family quality of life tool was inconclusive. Barriers included stigma and exclusion, poverty, and the need to manage expectations around the child's progress. Total provider cost for delivering the program per participant was USD 232. Conclusion A pilot feasibility trial of the Baby Ubuntu program found it to be feasible and acceptable to children, caregivers and healthcare workers in Uganda. A mixed methods evaluation provided rich programmatic learning including qualitative, but not quantitative, evidence of impact. The cost estimate represents a feasible intervention for this vulnerable group, encouraging financial sustainability at scale. Clinical trial registration [https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN44380971], identifier [ISRCTN44380971].
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Nanyunja
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Samantha Sadoo
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maya Kohli-Lynch
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Nalugya
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Uganda (SHA-U), Mbale, Uganda
| | - James Nyonyintono
- Kiwoko Hospital, Nakaseke, Uganda
- Adara Development, Edmonds, WA, United States
| | | | | | - Emily Trautner
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Brooke Magnusson
- Kiwoko Hospital, Nakaseke, Uganda
- Adara Development, Edmonds, WA, United States
| | - Daniel Kabugo
- Kiwoko Hospital, Nakaseke, Uganda
- Adara Development, Edmonds, WA, United States
| | - Frances M Cowan
- Department of Paediatrics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Zuurmond
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Morgan
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Janet Seeley
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christine Otai
- Kiwoko Hospital, Nakaseke, Uganda
- Adara Development, Edmonds, WA, United States
| | - Giulia Greco
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Cally J Tann
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Neonatal Medicine, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Okelo K, Nampijja M, Ilboudo P, Muendo R, Oloo L, Muyingo S, Mwaniki E, Langat N, Onyango S, Sipalla F, Kitsao-Wekulo P. Evaluating the effectiveness of the Kidogo model in empowering women and strengthening their capacities to engage in paid labor opportunities through the provision of quality childcare: a study protocol for an exploratory study in Nakuru County, Kenya. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 2022; 9:237. [PMID: 35854981 PMCID: PMC9284489 DOI: 10.1057/s41599-022-01260-y] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, there is a wide gap between what women can contribute to the economy and what they actually contribute. One of the main barriers to women's engagement in the labor market and productivity at work is the societal expectation that they should take care of their children in addition to meeting the demands of employment. Furthermore, those in informal employment face difficulties due to long working hours and environments that are not appropriate for childcare. To address this, Kidogo runs an innovative "Hub & Spoke" model for low-income communities. Here, we present a study protocol aimed at evaluating whether the provision of quality childcare opportunities for working women through the Kidogo model is feasible and acceptable and whether it contributes to improvements in their incomes and productivity at work. The study reported in this protocol which is currently ongoing, employed a quasi-experimental design with two study arms: primary caregivers who use childcare services were recruited into the intervention (n = 170) and comparison groups (n = 170). Both groups are being followed up for one year. We are using a mixed-methods approach. Appropriate statistical methods including a difference-in-differences (DID) estimator will be used to analyze the effects of the intervention. We expect that the intervention will improve the quality of childcare services which in turn will improve the incomes of the center providers. We expect that providing improved childcare services will enhance women's economic empowerment. Trial registration: PACTR202107762759962.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Okelo
- African Population and Health Research Center–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Patrick Ilboudo
- African Population and Health Research Center–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ruth Muendo
- African Population and Health Research Center–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linda Oloo
- African Population and Health Research Center–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sylvia Muyingo
- African Population and Health Research Center–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Nelson Langat
- African Population and Health Research Center–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Silas Onyango
- African Population and Health Research Center–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Florence Sipalla
- African Population and Health Research Center–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
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12
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Nampijja M, Mutua AM, Elliott AM, Muriuki JM, Abubakar A, Webb EL, Atkinson SH. Low Hemoglobin Levels Are Associated with Reduced Psychomotor and Language Abilities in Young Ugandan Children. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14071452. [PMID: 35406065 PMCID: PMC9002834 DOI: 10.3390/nu14071452] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Children living in Sub-Saharan Africa are vulnerable to developmental delay, particularly in the critical first five years due to various adverse exposures including disease and nutritional deficiencies. Anemia and iron deficiency (ID) are highly prevalent in pregnant mothers and young children and are implicated in abnormal brain development. However, available evidence on the association between anemia, ID and neurodevelopment in sub-Saharan Africa is limited. Using data from the Entebbe Mother and Baby Study prospective birth cohort, we examined the effect of maternal and child hemoglobin (Hb) levels and child iron status on developmental scores in 933 and 530 pre-school Ugandan children respectively. Associations between Hb levels, iron status and developmental scores were assessed using regression analyses adjusting for potential confounders. Lower maternal and child Hb levels were associated with reduced psychomotor scores at 15 months, while only lower Hb levels in infancy were associated with reduced language scores. We found no evidence that anemia or ID was associated with cognitive or motor scores at five years. This study emphasizes the importance of managing anemia in pregnancy and infancy and highlights the need for further studies on the effects of anemia and ID in children living in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing (MCW) Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi 00100, Kenya;
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe P.O. Box 49, Uganda;
| | - Agnes M. Mutua
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Wellcome Trust Research Programme, KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi 230-80108, Kenya; (J.M.M.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.M.M.); (S.H.A.); Tel.: +254-709983677-76 (A.M.M. & S.H.A.)
| | - Alison M. Elliott
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe P.O. Box 49, Uganda;
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - John Muthii Muriuki
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Wellcome Trust Research Programme, KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi 230-80108, Kenya; (J.M.M.); (A.A.)
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Wellcome Trust Research Programme, KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi 230-80108, Kenya; (J.M.M.); (A.A.)
- Department of Public Health, School of Human and Health Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi 195-80108, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi 30270-00100, Kenya
| | - Emily L. Webb
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
| | - Sarah H. Atkinson
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Wellcome Trust Research Programme, KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi 230-80108, Kenya; (J.M.M.); (A.A.)
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Correspondence: (A.M.M.); (S.H.A.); Tel.: +254-709983677-76 (A.M.M. & S.H.A.)
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13
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Kitsao-Wekulo P, Kipkoech Langat N, Nampijja M, Mwaniki E, Okelo K, Kimani-Murage E. Development and feasibility testing of a mobile phone application to track children's developmental progression. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254621. [PMID: 34265009 PMCID: PMC8282085 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Given that mobile phone usage has increased rapidly throughout the world, one possibility to increase parental involvement in monitoring their children’s progression is to train parents or primary caregivers on the use of mobile phone technology to track their children’s developmental milestones. The current paper aimed to describe the development of a mobile phone application for use among primary caregivers and establish the feasibility and preliminary impact of caregivers using a mobile phone application to track the progression of their children’s development in a context where there is a paucity of similar studies. This study is a substudy that focusses on the intervention group only of a recently completed two-armed quasi-experimental study in an informal settlement in Nairobi. The mobile phone application which consisted of questions on children’s developmental progression, as well as stimulation messages, was developed through a step-wise approach. The questions covered five child developmental domains: communication; fine motor; gross motor; personal-social; and, problem-solving. Depending on the response received, the child would be classified as having ‘achieved a milestone’ or ‘milestone not achieved.’ If a child had achieved the milestone for a specific age, a caregiver would receive an SMS on how to stimulate the child to achieve the next milestone. Where the milestone was not achieved, the caregiver would get a message to enhance development in the area of delay. Caregivers with children aged between six months and two years were recruited into the study and received questions and messages regarding their children’s development (age-specific) on a monthly basis for 12 months. Caregiver adherence to the intervention was above 90% in the first three months of implementation. Thereafter, the response rate fluctuated between 76% and 86% across the subsequent months of the intervention. The high level and fairly stable caregivers’ rate of response to the 12 rounds of messaging indicated feasibility of the mobile technology. Further, in the first three months of intervention implementation, the majority of caregivers were able to keep track of how their children attained their developmental milestones. The intervention seems to be scalable, practical and potentially low-cost because of the wide coverage of phones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Kitsao-Wekulo
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - Nelson Kipkoech Langat
- Data, Measurement and Evaluation Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Mwaniki
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Okelo
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Kimani-Murage
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
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14
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Nampijja M, Okelo K, Wekulo PK, Kimani-Murage EW, Elsey H. Improving the quality of child-care centres through supportive assessment and 'communities of practice' in informal settlements in Nairobi: protocol of a feasibility study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e042544. [PMID: 33674370 PMCID: PMC7938982 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-042544] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Investing in children during the critical period between birth and age 5 years can have long-lasting benefits throughout their life. Children in Kenya's urban informal settlements, face significant challenges to healthy development, particularly when their families need to earn a daily wage and cannot care for them during the day. In response, informal and poor quality child-care centres with untrained caregivers have proliferated. We aim to co-design and test the feasibility of a supportive assessment and skills-building for child-care centre providers. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A sequential mixed-methods approach will be used. We will map and profile child-care centres in two informal settlements in Nairobi, and complete a brief quality assessment of 50 child-care centres. We will test the feasibility of a supportive assessment skills-building system on 40 child-care centres, beginning with assessing centre-caregivers' knowledge and skills in these centres. This will inform the subsequent co-design process and provide baseline data. Following a policy review, we will use experience-based co-design to develop the supportive assessment process. This will include qualitative interviews with policymakers (n=15), focus groups with parents (n=4 focus group discussions (FGDs)), child-care providers (n=4 FGDs) and joint workshops. To assess feasibility and acceptability, we will observe, record and cost implementation for 6 months. The knowledge/skills questionnaire will be repeated at the end of implementation and results will inform the purposive selection of 10 child-care providers and parents for qualitative interviews. Descriptive statistics and thematic framework approach will respectively be used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data and identify drivers of feasibility. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has been approved by Amref Health Africa's Ethics and Scientific Review Committee (Ref: P7802020 on 20th April 2020) and the University of York (Ref: HSRGC 20th March 2020). Findings will be published and continual engagement with decision-makers will embed findings into child-care policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Okelo
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Patricia Kitsao Wekulo
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Helen Elsey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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15
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Nkurunungi G, Nassuuna J, Mpairwe H, Kabagenyi J, Nampijja M, Sanya RE, Webb EL, Elliott AM. Allergen skin test reactivity and asthma are inversely associated with ratios of IgG4/IgE and total IgE/allergen-specific IgE in Ugandan communities. Clin Exp Allergy 2021; 51:703-715. [PMID: 33512036 PMCID: PMC7610822 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13834] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Serum inhibition of allergen‐specific IgE has been associated with competing IgG4 and non‐specific polyclonal IgE. In allergen immunotherapy, beneficial responses have been associated with high IgG4/IgE ratios. Helminths potentiate antibody class switching to IgG4 and stimulate polyclonal IgE synthesis; therefore, we hypothesized a role for helminth‐associated IgG4 and total IgE in protection against atopic sensitization and clinical allergy (asthma) in tropical low‐income countries. Methods Among community residents of Ugandan rural Schistosoma mansoni (Sm)–endemic islands and a mainland urban setting with lower helminth exposure, and among urban asthmatic schoolchildren and non‐asthmatic controls, we measured total, Schistosoma adult worm antigen (SWA)–specific, Schistosoma egg antigen (SEA)–specific and allergen (house dust mite [HDM] and German cockroach)–specific IgE and IgG4 by ImmunoCAP® and/or ELISA. We assessed associations between these antibody profiles and current Sm infection, the rural‐urban environment, HDM and cockroach skin prick test (SPT) reactivity, and asthma. Results Total IgE, total IgG4 and SWA‐, SEA‐ and allergen‐specific IgE and IgG4 levels were significantly higher in the rural, compared to the urban setting. In both community settings, both Sm infection and SPT reactivity were positively associated with allergen‐specific and total IgE responses. SPT reactivity was inversely associated with Schistosoma‐specific IgG4, allergen‐specific IgG4/IgE ratios and total IgE/allergen‐specific IgE ratios. Asthmatic schoolchildren, compared with non‐asthmatic controls, had significantly higher levels of total and allergen‐specific IgE, but lower ratios of allergen‐specific IgG4/IgE and total IgE/allergen‐specific IgE. Conclusions and clinical relevance Our immuno‐epidemiological data support the hypothesis that the IgG4–IgE balance and the total IgE–allergen‐specific IgE balance are more important than absolute total, helminth‐ or allergen‐specific antibody levels in inhibition of allergies in the tropics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jacent Nassuuna
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Harriet Mpairwe
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joyce Kabagenyi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Richard E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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16
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Nampijja M, Sembajjwe W, Mpairwe H, Mpango R, Kinyanda E. Prevalence and correlates of neurocognitive impairment and psychiatric disorders among schoolchildren in Wakiso District, Uganda: a cross-sectional study. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 6:217. [PMID: 36873715 PMCID: PMC9975401 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17005.3] [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] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is limited data on the burden of mental disorders among children in the general population in Africa. We examined the prevalence and correlates of neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders among schoolchildren in Uganda. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 322 schoolchildren aged 5-17years in Wakiso, Uganda. We assessed for neurocognitive impairment using the Kaufmann-Assessment-Battery, and psychiatric disorders (major-depressive-disorder (MDD), attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder (ADHD), generalised-anxiety-disorder (GAD), and substance-use-disorder (SUD)) using the parent version of the Child and Adolescent Symptom Inventory-5, and Youth Inventory-4R Self Report. Prevalence and risk factors were determined using respectively descriptive statistics, and univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Results: Twenty-five participants (8%) had neurocognitive impairment. Nineteen (5.9%) participants had MDD, nine (2.8%) had ADHD, seven (2.2%) had GAD, 14 (8.6%) had SUD; and 30 (9.3%) had any psychiatric disorder. Among the exposure variables examined in this study, including asthma, age, sex, grade of schooling, type of school and maternal and father's education and family socio-economic status, only asthma was associated with the disorders (MDD). Conclusions: The relatively high burden of mental disorders in this general population of children warrants targeted screening of those at risk, and treatment of those affected. Further, future studies should extensively investigate the factors that underlie the identified psychiatric disorders in this and similar general populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Harriet Mpairwe
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, Bloomsbury, London, London, WC1E 7HT, UK., UK
| | - Richard Mpango
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Soroti University, Soroti, Uganda
| | - Eugene Kinyanda
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala,, Kampala, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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Tann CJ, Kohli-Lynch M, Nalugya R, Sadoo S, Martin K, Lassman R, Nanyunja C, Musoke M, Sewagaba M, Nampijja M, Seeley J, Webb EL. Surviving and Thriving: Early Intervention for Neonatal Survivors With Developmental Disability in Uganda. Infants Young Child 2021; 34:17-32. [PMID: 33790497 PMCID: PMC7983078 DOI: 10.1097/iyc.0000000000000182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Global attention on early child development, inclusive of those with disability, has the potential to translate into improved action for the millions of children with developmental disability living in low- and middle-income countries. Nurturing care is crucial for all children, arguably even more so for children with developmental disability. A high proportion of survivors of neonatal conditions such as prematurity and neonatal encephalopathy are affected by early child developmental disability. The first thousand days of life is a critical period for neuroplasticity and an important window of opportunity for interventions, which maximize developmental potential and other outcomes. Since 2010, our group has been examining predictors, outcomes, and experiences of neonatal encephalopathy in Uganda. The need for an early child intervention program to maximize participation and improve the quality of life for children and families became apparent. In response, the "ABAaNA early intervention program," (now re-branding as 'Baby Ubuntu') a group participatory early intervention program for young children with developmental disability and their families, was developed and piloted. Piloting has provided early evidence of feasibility, acceptability, and impact and a feasibility trial is underway. Future research aims to develop programmatic capacity across diverse settings and evaluate its impact at scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cally J. Tann
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Maya Kohli-Lynch
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Ruth Nalugya
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Samantha Sadoo
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Karen Martin
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Rachel Lassman
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Carol Nanyunja
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Margaret Musoke
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Margaret Sewagaba
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Janet Seeley
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
| | - Emily L. Webb
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Sadoo); Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda (Drs Tann, Nampijja, and Professor Seeley and Mss Nalugya, Nanyunja, Musoke, and Sewagaba); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, England (Dr Tann and Dr Martin); Centre for Academic Child Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, England (Dr Kohli-Lynch); Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, England (Dr Martin); Kyaninga Child Development Centre, Fort Portal, Uganda (Ms Lassman); African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya (Dr Nampijja); Department of Global Health & Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Seeley); and MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England (Dr Webb)
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18
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Nkurunungi G, Mpairwe H, Versteeg SA, Diepen A, Nassuuna J, Kabagenyi J, Nambuya I, Sanya RE, Nampijja M, Serna S, Reichardt N, Hokke CH, Webb EL, Ree R, Yazdanbakhsh M, Elliott AM. Cross-reactive carbohydrate determinant-specific IgE obscures true atopy and exhibits ⍺-1,3-fucose epitope-specific inverse associations with asthma. Allergy 2021; 76:233-246. [PMID: 32568414 PMCID: PMC7610925 DOI: 10.1111/all.14469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background In high-income, temperate countries, IgE to allergen extracts is a risk factor for, and mediator of, allergy-related diseases (ARDs). In the tropics, positive IgE tests are also prevalent, but rarely associated with ARD. Instead, IgE responses to ubiquitous cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCDs) on plant, insect and parasite glycoproteins, rather than to established major allergens, are dominant. Because anti-CCD IgE has limited clinical relevance, it may impact ARD phenotyping and assessment of contribution of atopy to ARD. Methods Using an allergen extract-based test, a glycan and an allergen (glyco)protein microarray, we mapped IgE fine specificity among Ugandan rural Schistosoma mansoni (Sm)-endemic communities, proximate urban communities, and importantly in asthmatic and nonasthmatic schoolchildren. Results Overall, IgE sensitization to extracts was highly prevalent (43%-73%) but allergen arrays indicated that this was not attributable to established major allergenic components of the extracts (0%-36%); instead, over 40% of all participants recognized CCD-bearing components. Using glycan arrays, we dissected IgE responses to specific glycan moieties and found that reactivity to classical CCD epitopes (core β-1,2-xylose, α-1,3-fucose) was positively associated with sensitization to extracts, rural environment and Sm infection, but not with skin reactivity to extracts or sensitization to their major allergenic components. Interestingly, we discovered that reactivity to only a subset of core α-1,3-fucose-carrying N-glycans was inversely associated with asthma. Conclusions CCD reactivity is not just an epiphenomenon of parasite exposure hampering specificity of allergy diagnostics; mechanistic studies should investigate whether specific CCD moieties identified here are implicated in the protective effect of certain environmental exposures against asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit Entebbe Uganda
- Department of Clinical Research London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London UK
| | - Harriet Mpairwe
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit Entebbe Uganda
| | - Serge A. Versteeg
- Departments of Experimental Immunology and of Otorhinolaryngology Amsterdam University Medical Centers (AMC) Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Angela Diepen
- Department of Parasitology Leiden University Medical Center Leiden The Netherlands
| | - Jacent Nassuuna
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit Entebbe Uganda
| | - Joyce Kabagenyi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit Entebbe Uganda
| | - Irene Nambuya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit Entebbe Uganda
| | - Richard E. Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit Entebbe Uganda
- College of Health Sciences Makerere University Kampala Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit Entebbe Uganda
| | - Sonia Serna
- Glycotechnology Laboratory Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biomateriales (CIC biomaGUNE) San Sebastián Spain
| | - Niels‐Christian Reichardt
- Glycotechnology Laboratory Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biomateriales (CIC biomaGUNE) San Sebastián Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER‐BBN) San Sebastián Spain
| | - Cornelis H. Hokke
- Department of Parasitology Leiden University Medical Center Leiden The Netherlands
| | - Emily L. Webb
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group London UK
| | - Ronald Ree
- Departments of Experimental Immunology and of Otorhinolaryngology Amsterdam University Medical Centers (AMC) Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology Leiden University Medical Center Leiden The Netherlands
| | - Alison M. Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit Entebbe Uganda
- Department of Clinical Research London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London UK
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19
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Nampijja M, Sembajjwe W, Mpairwe H, Mpango R, Kinyanda E. Prevalence and correlates of neurocognitive impairment and psychiatric disorders among schoolchildren in Wakiso District, Uganda: a cross-sectional study. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 6:217. [PMID: 36873715 PMCID: PMC9975401 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17005.2] [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] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is limited data on the burden of mental disorders among children in the general population in Africa. We examined the prevalence and correlates of neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders among schoolchildren in Uganda. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 322 schoolchildren aged 5-17years in Wakiso, Uganda. We assessed for neurocognitive impairment using the Kaufmann-Assessment-Battery, and psychiatric disorders (major-depressive-disorder (MDD), attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder (ADHD), generalised-anxiety-disorder (GAD), and substance-use-disorder (SUD)) using the parent version of the Child and Adolescent Symptom Inventory-5, and Youth Inventory-4R Self Report. Prevalence and risk factors were determined using respectively descriptive statistics, and univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Results: Twenty-five participants (8%) had neurocognitive impairment. Nineteen (5.9%) participants had MDD, nine (2.8%) had ADHD, seven (2.2%) had GAD, 14 (8.6%) had SUD; and 30 (9.3%) had any psychiatric disorder. Among the exposure variables examined in this study, including asthma, age, sex, grade of schooling, type of school and maternal and father's education and family socio-economic status, only asthma was associated with the disorders (MDD). Conclusions: The relatively high burden of mental disorders in this general population of children warrants targeted screening of those at risk, and treatment of those affected. Further, future studies should extensively investigate the factors that underlie the identified psychiatric disorders in this and similar general populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Harriet Mpairwe
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, Bloomsbury, London, London, WC1E 7HT, UK., UK
| | - Richard Mpango
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Soroti University, Soroti, Uganda
| | - Eugene Kinyanda
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala,, Kampala, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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20
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Nampijja M, Sembajjwe W, Mpairwe H, Mpango R, Kinyanda E. Prevalence and correlates of neurocognitive impairment and psychiatric disorders among schoolchildren in Wakiso District, Uganda: a cross-sectional study. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 6:217. [PMID: 36873715 PMCID: PMC9975401 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17005.1] [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] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is limited data on the burden of mental disorders among 'healthy' children in Africa. We examined the prevalence and correlates of neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders among schoolchildren in Uganda. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 322 schoolchildren aged 5-17years in Wakiso, Uganda. We assessed for neurocognitive impairment using the Kaufmann-Assessment-Battery, and psychiatric disorders (major-depressive-disorder (MDD), attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder (ADHD), generalised-anxiety-disorder (GAD), and substance-use-disorder (SUD)) using the parent version of the Child and Adolescent Symptom Inventory-5, and Youth Inventory-4R Self Report. Prevalence and risk factors were determined using percentages and logistic regression. Results: Twenty-five participants (8%) had neurocognitive impairment. Nineteen (5.9%) participants had MDD, nine (2.8%) had ADHD, seven (2.2%) had GAD, 14 (8.6%) had SUD; and 30 (9.3%) had any psychiatric disorder. None of the factors examined were associated with the disorders. Conclusions: The unexpectedly high burden of mental disorders in this general population of children warrants targeted screening of those at risk, and treatment of those affected. Further, future studies should extensively investigate the factors that underlie the identified psychiatric disorders in this and similar general populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Harriet Mpairwe
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, Bloomsbury, London, London, WC1E 7HT, UK., UK
| | - Richard Mpango
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Soroti University, Soroti, Uganda
| | - Eugene Kinyanda
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala,, Kampala, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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21
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Nampijja M, Lubyayi L, Tumusiime J, Nabulime J, Kizindo R, Kabuubi P, Sanya RE, Kabagenyi J, Akurut H, Muhangi L, Webb EL, Alcock K, Elliott AM. Effect of intensive versus standard anthelminthic treatment on growth and cognition among children living in a high Schistosoma mansoni transmission setting: a study nested within a cluster-randomised trial. Wellcome Open Res 2020. [DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.16092.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Schistosomiasis and other worm infections have been associated with growth and cognitive impairments; however, whether treatment reverses these effects is uncertain. Moreover, mechanisms linking these infections to cognition are not clear. We aimed to compare growth and cognitive benefits of intensive versus standard anthelminthic treatment in school-aged-children and explore processes that might be involved. We hypothesised that intensive treatment would have greater benefits than standard treatment. Methods: The study was nested within a cluster-randomised trial of either quarterly single-dose praziquantel of 40mg/kg to treat Schistosoma mansoni plus triple dose albendazole of 400mg (intensive treatment) to treat soil-transmitted worms including Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm and Trichuris trichiura, or annual single-dose praziquantel 40mg/kg plus six-monthly single-dose albendazole 400mg (standard treatment) conducted in the Koome islands in Lake Victoria, Uganda (ISRCTN47196031). Children aged 5-9 years (N=384) were assessed on primary outcomes (height, weight and eight measures of cognitive ability), worm infection, and proposed mediators of worm effects (cytokines, iron status, physical activity) at one year (intensive n=85; standard n=64) and at two years (intensive n=158; standard n=128) of the intervention. Linear regression was used to examine intervention effects on height, weight and cognitive performance. Linear mixed effects models were used to study changes in growth and cognitive performance between the two arms across the two time-points. Results: Intensive treatment resulted in lower Schistosoma mansoni prevalence than standard treatment (at one year, 41% versus 70%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=0.24, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.49; at two years, 39% versus 69%; aOR=0.27; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.43) but there were no significant differences in growth and cognitive outcomes at either time-point. Worms and treatment showed no consistent association with the proposed mediators of worm effects. Conclusion: Reduction in worm burden may not improve growth and cognitive outcomes in high S. mansoni transmission settings. Possible implications are discussed.
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Akurut H, Sanya RE, Lubyayi L, Nampijja M, Kizza M, Kaweesa J, Kizindo R, Sewankambo M, Nsubuga D, Tukahebwa E, Kabatereine NB, Elliott AM, Webb EL. Anthelminthic treatment receipt and its predictors in Lake Victoria fishing communities, Uganda: Intervention coverage results from the LaVIISWA cluster randomised trial. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008718. [PMID: 33075067 PMCID: PMC7595614 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008718] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mass drug administration (MDA) is a cornerstone of control of parasitic helminths. In schistosomiasis-endemic areas with >50% of school-aged children infected, community-wide MDA with praziquantel is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), with target coverage of >75%. Using data from a cluster-randomised trial of MDA treatment strategies, we aimed to describe the proportion of eligible residents who received MDA and predictors of treatment receipt, and to assess associations with helminth prevalence. METHODS In the Koome islands of Lake Victoria, Uganda, where baseline schistosomiasis prevalence (by single stool sample, Kato Katz) was 52% overall (all ages) and 67% among school-aged children, we conducted a cluster-randomised trial of community-wide, intensive MDA (quarterly single-dose praziquantel 40mg/kg; triple-dose albendazole 400mg) versus standard, Uganda government intervention (annual single-dose praziquantel 40mg/kg; 6-monthly single-dose albendazole). Twenty-six fishing villages were randomised, 13 per trial arm, for four years. At each treatment round, praziquantel treatment and the first dose of albendazole treatment were directly observed by the study team, registers of village residents were updated and the proportion receiving treatment among those eligible recorded. RESULTS During the four-year MDA, at each treatment round an average of 13,382 people were registered in the 26 villages (7,153 and 6,229 in standard and intensive intervention villages, respectively). Overall, the proportion of those eligible receiving praziquantel was lower than for albendazole (60% versus 65%), particularly in the standard arm (61% versus 71%) compared to the intensive arm (60% versus 62%). Albendazole receipt was lower when given concurrently with praziquantel. Absence was the commonest reason for non-receipt of treatment (81% albendazole, 77% praziquantel), followed by refusal (14% albendazole, 18% praziquantel). Proportions receiving treatment were lowest among school-aged children, but did not differ by sex. Longitudinal analysis of a subgroup of residents who did not move during the study period found that persistent non-receipt of treatment in this subgroup was rare. Refusal to receive treatment was highest among adults and more common among females. CONCLUSION In schistosomiasis high-risk communities, a combination of approaches to increasing treatment coverage, such as extended periods of treatment delivery, and the provision of incentives, may be required to achieve WHO targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hellen Akurut
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Richard E. Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lawrence Lubyayi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Moses Kizza
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
| | - James Kaweesa
- Vector Control Division, Uganda Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Kizindo
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Moses Sewankambo
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Denis Nsubuga
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | - Alison M. Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Emily L. Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
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Sanya RE, Andia Biraro I, Nampijja M, Zziwa C, Nanyunja C, Nsubuga D, Kiwanuka S, Tumusiime J, Nassuuna J, Walusimbi B, Cose S, Ocama P, Grencis RK, Elliott AM, Webb EL. Contrasting impact of rural, versus urban, living on glucose metabolism and blood pressure in Uganda. Wellcome Open Res 2020; 5:39. [PMID: 32875121 PMCID: PMC7447960 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15616.2] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The burden of cardiometabolic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, is increasing in sub-Saharan Africa and this has been linked to urbanisation. Helminths, through their immunomodulatory properties, may protect against these disorders. We hypothesised that the rural environment protects against cardiometabolic diseases and that helminths may influence rural-urban disparity of cardiometabolic disease risk. Methods: We compared metabolic parameters of individuals aged ≥10 years living in rural, high-helminth-transmission and urban, lower-helminth-transmission settings in Uganda. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted in rural Lake Victoria island fishing communities and in urban sub-wards in Entebbe municipality. Helminth infection and outcomes, including insulin resistance (computed using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR]), fasting blood glucose, fasting blood lipids, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumference, were assessed. Results: We analysed 1,898 rural and 930 urban participants. Adjusting for BMI, exercise, smoking, alcohol intake, age and sex, urban residents had lower mean fasting glucose (adjusted mean difference [95%CI] 0.18 [-0.32, -0.05] p=0.01) and HOMA-IR (-0.26 [-0.40, -0.11] p=0.001) but higher blood pressure (systolic, 5.45 [3.75, 7.15] p<0.001; diastolic, 1.93 [0.57, 3.29] p=0.006). Current helminth infection did not explain the observed differences. Conclusions: In the Ugandan context, living in rural fishing communities may protect against hypertension but worsen glucose metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Irene Andia Biraro
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Christopher Zziwa
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Carol Nanyunja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Denis Nsubuga
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Samuel Kiwanuka
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Josephine Tumusiime
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jacent Nassuuna
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Bridgious Walusimbi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Stephen Cose
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ponsiano Ocama
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Richard K Grencis
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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24
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Mutua AM, Nampijja M, Elliott AM, Pettifor JM, Williams TN, Abubakar A, Webb EL, Atkinson SH. Vitamin D Status Is Not Associated with Cognitive or Motor Function in Pre-School Ugandan Children. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12061662. [PMID: 32503251 PMCID: PMC7352320 DOI: 10.3390/nu12061662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency is common worldwide and young children are among the most affected groups. Animal studies suggest a key role for vitamin D in brain development. However, studies investigating the effects of vitamin D on neurobehavioural outcomes in children are inconclusive and evidence is limited in sub-Saharan Africa. We evaluated the effect of vitamin D status on cognitive and motor outcomes using prospective data from the Entebbe Mother and Baby Study birth cohort. We analysed data from 302 Ugandan children with 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) measurements below five years and developmental measures at five years of age. We used multivariable linear regression, adjusted for potential confounders, to estimate the effect of 25(OH)D on cognitive and motor outcomes. Of 302 children, eight (2.7%) had 25(OH)D levels <50 nmol/L, 105 (35.8%) had levels 50-75 nmol/L and 189 (62.6%) had levels >75 nmol/L. There was no evidence that earlier vitamin D status was associated with cognitive and motor outcomes in five-year-old Ugandan children. This study adds to the sparse literature and highlights the need for further longitudinal studies on vitamin D and neurobehavioural outcomes in children living in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes M. Mutua
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O. BOX 230-80108 Kilifi, Kenya; (T.N.W.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.M.M.); (S.H.A.); Tel.: +254-709983677/76 (A.M.M.)
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing (MCW) Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 10787-00100 Nairobi, Kenya;
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda;
| | - Alison M. Elliott
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda;
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - John M. Pettifor
- South African Medical Research Council and Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, 26 Chris Hani Road, Soweto 6201, Johannesburg, South Africa;
| | - Thomas N. Williams
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O. BOX 230-80108 Kilifi, Kenya; (T.N.W.); (A.A.)
- Department of Medicine, Imperial College of Science Technology and Medicine, St Mary’s Hospital, London W2 1NY, UK
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O. BOX 230-80108 Kilifi, Kenya; (T.N.W.); (A.A.)
- Department of Public Health, School of Human and Health Sciences, Pwani University, P.O. BOX 195-80108 Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, 2nd Parklands Avenue, P.O. BOX 30270-00100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Emily L. Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
| | - Sarah H. Atkinson
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O. BOX 230-80108 Kilifi, Kenya; (T.N.W.); (A.A.)
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Correspondence: (A.M.M.); (S.H.A.); Tel.: +254-709983677/76 (A.M.M.)
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Van den Heuvel M, Babikako H, Mbale E, Mukisa J, Nampijja M, Uebelhoer L, Lancioni C, Gladstone M, Walson J, Aber P, Jemutai J, Berkley J, Mupere E. Are Play Items and Interaction Activities at Home Associated with Developmental Outcomes in Children with Moderate Acute Malnutrition? Curr Dev Nutr 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzaa057_054] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
To assess the association between play and interaction, and developmental outcomes in children with moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) in a prospective cohort of hospitalized children in Malawi and Uganda (http://www.chainnetwork.org).
Methods
Children (age 2– 23 months) requiring hospitalization for acute illness were enrolled from January 2017 till December 2018. Children meeting WHO criteria for MAM by mean upper arm circumference (MUAC) were included in this sub-analysis. Child development was assessed using the Malawi Developmental Assessment Tool at discharge and 180-day follow-up. The Family Care Indicator (FCI) evaluated the number of play items and interactions in the home. Developmental outcomes at discharge and follow-up were assessed using paired t-test. Linear regression analysis examined associations between FCI score and developmental outcomes at follow-up, with adjustment for sex, prematurity, height-for-age z-score and HIV status, parental education, household assets, and maternal mental health.
Results
128 children with MAM (52.3% male, mean age 11.3 months (±4.5) were included (mean MUAC 120 mm ± 3.2). Children were excluded for: pre-existing neurodisability (n = 5), death during follow-up (n = 4), and loss to follow-up (n = 22). At discharge 24.4% of the children had delays in the gross motor domain, 18.7% in the fine motor domain, 4.1% in the language domain and 7.3% in the social domain. Over the 6-month study period, significant improvements (P < 0.001) in the mean difference of gross motor (1.3), fine motor (0.83) and social domain (0.59) Z-scores were observed. No significant change was identified in the language domain Z-score. Adjusted linear regression revealed that a one-point increase in the number of play items was associated with an increase in gross motor z-score of 0.16 (95% CI 0.01–0.32, P = 0.04) and a one point increase in interaction activities was associated with an increase in language z-score of 0.27 (95% CI 0.03–0.51, P = 0.03) at follow-up.
Conclusions
Children with MAM admitted for an acute illness showed significant improvements in developmental outcomes at 180-day follow-up. The role of play and interaction activities at home should be further investigated for their potential to promote developmental outcomes in children with MAM.
Funding Sources
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Luke Uebelhoer
- Child Development & Rehabilitation Center Oregon Health & Science University
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26
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Kabagenyi J, Natukunda A, Nassuuna J, Sanya RE, Nampijja M, Webb EL, Elliott AM, Nkurunungi G. Urban-rural differences in immune responses to mycobacterial and tetanus vaccine antigens in a tropical setting: A role for helminths? Parasitol Int 2020; 78:102132. [PMID: 32387542 PMCID: PMC7397513 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2020.102132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Several vaccines elicit lower efficacy or impaired immune responses in rural compared to urban settings, and in tropical low-income countries compared to high-income countries. An unresolved hypothesis is that immunomodulation by parasitic infections such as helminths (prevalent in rural tropical settings) contributes to suppression of vaccine responses. Among 1–17-year-old Ugandan residents of rural Schistosoma mansoni (Sm)-endemic islands and proximate urban communities with lower helminth exposure, we assessed plasma antibody and whole blood assay cytokine responses to tetanus toxoid (TT) and purified protein derivative of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (PPD). These were taken to represent recall responses to tetanus and BCG vaccination in infancy. PPD-specific responses are additionally induced by tuberculous and non-tuberculous mycobacterial exposure. Urban-rural comparisons showed that PPD-specific IFN-γ and IL-13 and TT-specific IL-13 and IgG concentrations were lower in the rural setting, but that PPD-specific IgE concentrations were higher. Among rural participants, Sm infection was inversely associated with PPD-specific IFN-γ, while nematode infection was positively associated with PPD-specific IgG. Among urban participants, Sm infection was positively associated with PPD-specific responses but inversely associated with TT-specific responses, while nematode infection was inversely associated with TT-specific IgG and IgG4, but no associations were observed with PPD-specific responses. Despite these associations, for the urban-rural comparisons there were no notable changes in test statistics after adjusting for current helminth infections, suggesting that helminths were not the sole explanation for the urban-rural differences observed. Helminths likely work in concert with other environmental exposures and operational factors to influence vaccine response. Vaccine (BCG, tetanus)-specific immune responses differ by urban/rural setting. Associations between helminths and vaccine-specific response also differ by setting. Urban-rural differences are not fully explained by helminth infection prevalence. Helminths likely work in concert with other factors to influence vaccine response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Kabagenyi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Agnes Natukunda
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jacent Nassuuna
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Richard E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda; College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.
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Sanya RE, Andia Biraro I, Nampijja M, Zziwa C, Nanyunja C, Nsubuga D, Kiwanuka S, Tumusiime J, Nassuuna J, Walusimbi B, Cose S, Ocama P, Grencis RK, Elliott AM, Webb EL. Contrasting impact of rural, versus urban, living on glucose metabolism and blood pressure in Uganda. Wellcome Open Res 2020; 5:39. [DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15616.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The burden of cardiometabolic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, is increasing in sub-Saharan Africa and this has been linked to urbanisation. Helminths, through their immunomodulatory properties, may protect against these disorders. We hypothesised that the rural environment protects against cardiometabolic diseases and that helminths may influence rural-urban disparity of cardiometabolic disease risk. Methods: We compared metabolic parameters of individuals aged ≥10 years living in rural, high-helminth-transmission and urban, lower-helminth-transmission settings in Uganda. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted in rural Lake Victoria island communities and in urban sub-wards in Entebbe municipality. Helminth infection and outcomes, including insulin resistance (computed using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR]), fasting blood glucose, fasting blood lipids, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumference, were assessed. Results: We analysed 1,898 rural and 930 urban participants. Adjusting for BMI, exercise, smoking, alcohol intake, age and sex, urban residents had lower mean fasting glucose (adjusted mean difference [95%CI] -0.13 [-0.24, -0.01] p=0.04) and HOMA-IR (-0.13 [-0.25, -0.01] p=0.04) but higher blood pressure (systolic, 4.64 [3.23, 6.06] p<0.001; diastolic, 1.89 [0.81, 2.97] p=0.001). Current helminth infection did not explain the observed differences. Conclusions: In low-income countries, rural living may protect against hypertension but impair glucose metabolism.
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Lule SA, Namara B, Akurut H, Muhangi L, Lubyayi L, Nampijja M, Akello F, Tumusiime J, Aujo JC, Oduru G, Smeeth L, Elliott AM, Webb EL. Are birthweight and postnatal weight gain in childhood associated with blood pressure in early adolescence? Results from a Ugandan birth cohort. Int J Epidemiol 2020; 48:148-156. [PMID: 29982658 PMCID: PMC6380421 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyy118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Africa, where low birthweight (LBW), malnutrition and high blood pressure (BP) are prevalent, the relationships between birthweight (BW), weight gain and BP later in life remain uncertain. We examined the effects of early life growth on BP among Ugandan adolescents. METHODS Data were collected prenatally from women and their offspring were followed from birth, with BP measured following standard protocols in early adolescence. Weight-for-age Z-scores (WAZ) were computed using World Health Organization references. Linear regression was used to relate BW, and changes in WAZ between birth and 5 years, to adolescents' BP, adjusting for confounders. RESULTS Among 2345 live offspring, BP was measured in 1119 (47.7%) adolescents, with mean systolic BP 105.9 mmHg and mean diastolic BP 65.2 mmHg. There was little evidence of association between BW and systolic [regression coefficient β = 0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) (-1.00, 1.27)] or diastolic [β = 0.43, 95% CI (-0.57, 1.43)] BP. Accelerated weight gain between birth and 5 years was associated with increased BP: systolic β = 1.17, 95% CI (0.69, 1.66) and diastolic β = 1.03, 95% CI (0.59, 1.47). Between birth and 6 months of age, effects of accelerated weight gain on adolescent BP were strongest among the LBW (both premature and small-for-gestational-age) children [BW < 2.5 kg: β = 2.64, 95% CI (0.91, 4.37), BW≥2.5 kg: β = 0.58, 95% CI (0.01, 1.14), interaction P-value = 0.024]. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this large tropical birth cohort in Uganda suggest that postnatal weight gain rather than BW is important in the developmental programming of BP, with fast-growing LBW children at particular risk. Efforts to control BP should adopt a life course approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swaib A Lule
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,Endemic, Neglected, Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Benigna Namara
- Endemic, Neglected, Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Helen Akurut
- Endemic, Neglected, Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Lawrence Muhangi
- Endemic, Neglected, Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Lawrence Lubyayi
- Endemic, Neglected, Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Endemic, Neglected, Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Florence Akello
- Endemic, Neglected, Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Judith C Aujo
- Department of Paediatrics, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gloria Oduru
- Endemic, Neglected, Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Liam Smeeth
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Emily L Webb
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Namazzi G, Hildenwall H, Mubiri P, Hanson C, Nalwadda C, Nampijja M, Kakooza-Mwesige A, Waiswa P, Tumwine JK. Prevalence and associated factors of neurodevelopmental disability among infants in eastern Uganda: a population based study. BMC Pediatr 2019; 19:379. [PMID: 31651279 PMCID: PMC6813088 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-019-1769-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neurodevelopmental disability (NDD) is increasingly acknowledged as one of the important causes of disease burden in low income countries. None the less, there is a dearth of data on the burden of NDD and its determinants in these settings. We aimed to establish the prevalence and factors associated with NDD among infants in Eastern Uganda. Methods We assessed 487 infants aged 9–12 months within Iganga-Mayuge Health Demographic Surveillance Site in Eastern Uganda using the Malawi Developmental Assessment Tool. The tool has four domains: gross motor, fine motor, language and social domains. An infant failed a domain if she/he failed more than two parameters of the expected at his/her age. We interviewed mothers on factors that could influence the infants’ neurodevelopmental outcomes. Data were analysed using STATA version 14. We used odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals to assess statistical significance of associations. Results Of the 487 infants, 62(12.7%) had an NDD in at least one of the domains. The most affected was social behaviour where 52(10.7%) infants had an NDD. Severe impairment was seen among 9(1.8%) infants with NDD in either three or four domains. Factors associated with NDD at multivariate logistic regression included: parity of more than three children (aOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.02–3.18); failure to cry at birth (aOR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.46–9.17) and post-neonatal complications (aOR = 4.15, 95% CI: 1.22–14.10). Low birth weight, immediate and exclusive breast feeding were not significantly associated with NDD. Conclusion We found a high NDD burden among infants particularly in the social behaviour domain. To optimise the socio-neural development of infants, programs are needed to educate and work with families on how to engage and stimulate infants. Existing immunisation clinics and community health worker strategies provide an excellent opportunity for stemming this burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gertrude Namazzi
- Makerere University School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P. O. Box, 7072, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Helena Hildenwall
- Global Health-Health Systems & Policy, Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paul Mubiri
- Makerere University School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P. O. Box, 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Claudia Hanson
- Global Health-Health Systems & Policy, Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
| | - Christine Nalwadda
- Makerere University School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P. O. Box, 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- MRC/Uganda Virus Research Institute & LSHTM Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Waiswa
- Makerere University School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P. O. Box, 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - James K Tumwine
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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30
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Nampijja M, Webb E, Nanyunja C, Sadoo S, Nalugya R, Nyonyintono J, Muhumuza A, Ssekidde M, Katumba K, Magnusson B, Kabugo D, Cowan FM, Martinez-Biarge M, Zuurmond M, Morgan C, Lester D, Seeley J, Tann CJ. Randomised controlled pilot feasibility trial of an early intervention programme for young infants with neurodevelopmental impairment in Uganda: a study protocol. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e032705. [PMID: 31601606 PMCID: PMC6797334 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-032705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early intervention programmes (EIPs) for infants with neurodevelopmental impairment have been poorly studied especially in low-income settings. We aim to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a group participatory EIP, the 'ABAaNA EIP', for young children with neurodevelopmental impairment in Uganda. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct a pilot feasibility, single-blinded, randomised controlled trial comparing the EIP with standard care across two study sites (one urban, one rural) in central Uganda. Eligible infants (n=126, age 6-11 completed months) with neurodevelopmental impairment (defined as a developmental quotient <70 on Griffiths Scales of Mental Development, and, or Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination score <60) will be recruited and randomised to the intervention or standard care arm. Intervention arm families will receive the 10-modular, peer-facilitated, participatory, community-based programme over 6 months. Recruited families will be followed up at 6 and 12 months after recruitment, and assessors will be blinded to the trial allocation. The primary hypothesis is that the ABAaNA EIP is feasible and acceptable when compared with standard care. Primary outcomes of interest are feasibility (number recruited and randomised at baseline) and acceptability (protocol violation of arm allocation and number of sessions attended) and family and child quality of life. Guided by the study aim, the qualitative data analysis will use a data-led thematic framework approach. The findings will inform scalability and sustainability of the programme. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The trial protocol has been approved by the relevant Ugandan and UK ethics committees. Recruited families will give written informed consent and we will follow international codes for ethics and good clinical practice. Dissemination will be through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and public engagement. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN44380971; protocol version 3.0, 19th February 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- Social Aspects of Health Programme, MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Emily Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carol Nanyunja
- Social Aspects of Health Programme, MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Samantha Sadoo
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Nalugya
- Social Aspects of Health Programme, MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - James Nyonyintono
- Adara Development, Washington, United Kingdom
- Kiwoko Hospital, Nakaseke, Uganda
| | - Anita Muhumuza
- Neonatal Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Kenneth Katumba
- Social Aspects of Health Programme, MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | - Frances M Cowan
- Department of Paediatrics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Maria Zuurmond
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cathy Morgan
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Deborah Lester
- Adara Development, Washington, United Kingdom
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Janet Seeley
- Social Aspects of Health Programme, MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cally J Tann
- Social Aspects of Health Programme, MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Neonatal Medicine, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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31
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Sanya RE, Nkurunungi G, Hoek Spaans R, Nampijja M, O’Hara G, Kizindo R, Oduru G, Kabuubi Nakawungu P, Niwagaba E, Abayo E, Kabagenyi J, Zziwa C, Tumusiime J, Nakazibwe E, Kaweesa J, Muwonge Kakooza F, Akello M, Lubyayi L, Verweij J, Nash S, van Ree R, Mpairwe H, Tukahebwa E, Webb EL, Elliott AM. The Impact of Intensive Versus Standard Anthelminthic Treatment on Allergy-related Outcomes, Helminth Infection Intensity, and Helminth-related Morbidity in Lake Victoria Fishing Communities, Uganda: Results From the LaVIISWA Cluster-randomized Trial. Clin Infect Dis 2019; 68:1665-1674. [PMID: 30202872 PMCID: PMC6495012 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of allergy-related diseases is increasing in low-income countries. Parasitic helminths, common in these settings, may be protective. We hypothesized that intensive, community-wide, anthelminthic mass drug administration (MDA) would increase allergy-related diseases, while reducing helminth-related morbidity. METHODS In an open, cluster-randomized trial (ISRCTN47196031), we randomized 26 high-schistosomiasis-transmission fishing villages in Lake Victoria, Uganda, in a 1:1 ratio to receive community-wide intensive (quarterly single-dose praziquantel plus albendazole daily for 3 days) or standard (annual praziquantel plus 6 monthly single-dose albendazole) MDA. Primary outcomes were recent wheezing, skin prick test positivity (SPT), and allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (asIgE) after 3 years of intervention. Secondary outcomes included helminths, haemoglobin, and hepatosplenomegaly. RESULTS The outcome survey comprised 3350 individuals. Intensive MDA had no effect on wheezing (risk ratio [RR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64-1.93), SPT (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.85-1.42), or asIgE (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.82-1.12). Intensive MDA reduced Schistosoma mansoni infection intensity: the prevalence from Kato Katz examinations of single stool samples from each patient was 23% versus 39% (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.55-0.88), but the urine circulating cathodic antigen test remained positive in 85% participants in both trial arms. Hookworm prevalence was 8% versus 11% (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31-1.00). There were no differences in anemia or hepatospenomegaly between trial arms. CONCLUSIONS Despite reductions in S. mansoni intensity and hookworm prevalence, intensive MDA had no effect on atopy, allergy-related diseases, or helminth-related pathology. This could be due to sustained low-intensity infections; thus, a causal link between helminths and allergy outcomes cannot be discounted. Intensive community-based MDA has a limited impact in high-schistosomiasis-transmission fishing communities, in the absence of other interventions. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION ISRCTN47196031.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Remy Hoek Spaans
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Geraldine O’Hara
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Kizindo
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Gloria Oduru
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Prossy Kabuubi Nakawungu
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Emmanuel Niwagaba
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Elson Abayo
- Entebbe Hospital, Wakiso District Local Government, Uganda
| | - Joyce Kabagenyi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Christopher Zziwa
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | | | | | - James Kaweesa
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Mirriam Akello
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Lawrence Lubyayi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Jaco Verweij
- Laboratory for Medical Microbiology and Immunology, St Elisabeth Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Stephen Nash
- Medical Research Council Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Ronald van Ree
- Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harriet Mpairwe
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | | | - Emily L Webb
- Medical Research Council Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
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32
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Nampijja M, Natamba B, Mpango R, Kinyanda E. The burden and risk factors for postnatal depression and depressive symptomatology among women in Kampala. Trop Doct 2019; 49:170-177. [PMID: 30885057 DOI: 10.1177/0049475519837107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a major global health challenge and postnatal women may be at an increased risk for this disorder. Very few studies have tested this hypothesis in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), so it is uncertain whether risk factors implicated elsewhere in the world are relevant in SSA. We explored prevalence and risk factors for MDD and depressive symptomatology among postnatal mothers in Kampala. Three hundred postnatal mothers at Nsambya Hospital were assessed for MDD using the DSM IV-based MINI; prevalence and risk factors were determined using frequencies and regressions, respectively. Four women (1.33%) had MDD; however, 94 (31%) had 'sub-threshold' or depressive symptomatology, with which partner violence is particularly associated. MDD is rare among postnatal women in a paying hospital in Kampala; however, the high prevalence of depressive symptomatology suggests susceptibility to MDD. Longitudinal studies should investigate this hypothesis and the susceptibility due to partner violence should guide appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- 1 Scientist, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Barnabas Natamba
- 1 Scientist, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Richard Mpango
- 1 Scientist, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Eugene Kinyanda
- 2 Senior Scientist, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
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33
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Nkurunungi G, van Diepen A, Nassuuna J, Sanya RE, Nampijja M, Nambuya I, Kabagenyi J, Serna S, Reichardt NC, van Ree R, Webb EL, Elliott AM, Yazdanbakhsh M, Hokke CH. Microarray assessment of N-glycan-specific IgE and IgG profiles associated with Schistosoma mansoni infection in rural and urban Uganda. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3522. [PMID: 30837526 PMCID: PMC6401159 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40009-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Core β-1,2-xylose and α-1,3-fucose are antigenic motifs on schistosome N-glycans, as well as prominent IgE targets on some plant and insect glycoproteins. To map the association of schistosome infection with responses to these motifs, we assessed plasma IgE and IgG reactivity using microarray technology among Ugandans from rural Schistosoma mansoni (Sm)-endemic islands (n = 209), and from proximate urban communities with lower Sm exposure (n = 62). IgE and IgG responses to core β-1,2-xylose and α-1,3-fucose modified N-glycans were higher in rural versus urban participants. Among rural participants, IgE and IgG to core β-1,2-xylose were positively associated with Sm infection and concentration peaks coincided with the infection intensity peak in early adolescence. Responses to core α-1,3-fucose were elevated regardless of Sm infection status and peaked before the infection peak. Among urban participants, Sm infection intensity was predominantly light and positively associated with responses to both motifs. Principal component and hierarchical cluster analysis reduced the data to a set of variables that captured core β-1,2-xylose- and α-1,3-fucose-specific responses, and confirmed associations with Sm and the rural environment. Responses to core β-1,2-xylose and α-1,3-fucose have distinctive relationships with Sm infection and intensity that should further be explored for associations with protective immunity, and cross-reactivity with other exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda. .,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Angela van Diepen
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jacent Nassuuna
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Richard E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Irene Nambuya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joyce Kabagenyi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Sonia Serna
- Glycotechnology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biomateriales (CIC biomaGUNE), San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Niels-Christian Reichardt
- Glycotechnology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Cooperativa en Biomateriales (CIC biomaGUNE), San Sebastián, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Ronald van Ree
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Departments of Experimental Immunology and of Otorhinolaryngology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis H Hokke
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Lule SA, Namara B, Akurut H, Lubyayi L, Nampijja M, Akello F, Tumusiime J, Aujo JC, Oduru G, Mentzer AJ, Smeeth L, Elliott AM, Webb EL. Blood pressure risk factors in early adolescents: results from a Ugandan birth cohort. J Hum Hypertens 2019; 33:679-692. [PMID: 30804461 PMCID: PMC6760975 DOI: 10.1038/s41371-019-0178-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to investigate life-course factors associated with blood pressure (BP) among Ugandan adolescents. Between 9th April 2003 and 24th November 2005, 2507 pregnant women from Entebbe municipality and Katabi sub-county were enrolled into a deworming trial. The resulting 2345 live-born offspring were followed to age 10 or 11 years, when between 20th May 2014 to 16th June 2016, BP was measured following standard protocols. Factors associated with BP were assessed using multivariable linear regression. BP was measured in 1119 adolescents with a median age of 10.2 years. Mean systolic BP and diastolic BP was 105.9 mmHg (standard deviation (SD) 8.2) and 65.2 mmHg (SD 7.3), respectively. Maternal gestational body mass index (BMI), higher maternal education status and family history of hypertension were positively associated with adolescent BP. Childhood (age ≤5 years) malaria was associated with lower adolescent systolic BP. Factors measured at time of BP measurement positively associated with systolic BP were age, BMI, waist circumference and Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) infection; higher vegetable consumption was associated with lower systolic BP. Results for diastolic BP were similar, except higher fruit, rather than higher vegetable consumption was associated with lower diastolic BP and there was no association with waist circumference or Trichuris trichiura infection. In summary, life-course exposures were associated with adolescent BP in this tropical birth cohort. Malaria early in life could impact later BP. Interventions initiated early in life targeting individuals with family history of hypertension, aiming to reduce adiposity (in pregnancy and adolescence) and promoting fruit and vegetable consumption might contribute to reducing the risk of high BP and subsequent cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swaib A Lule
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK. .,MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Benigna Namara
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Helen Akurut
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Lawrence Lubyayi
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Florence Akello
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Judith C Aujo
- Department of Paediatrics, Mulago Hospital, P.O. Box 7051, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gloria Oduru
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Liam Smeeth
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Alison M Elliott
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.,MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
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35
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Nkurunungi G, Lubyayi L, Versteeg SA, Sanya RE, Nassuuna J, Kabagenyi J, Kabuubi PN, Tumusiime J, Zziwa C, Kizindo R, Niwagaba E, Nanyunja C, Nampijja M, Mpairwe H, Yazdanbakhsh M, van Ree R, Webb EL, Elliott AM. Do helminth infections underpin urban-rural differences in risk factors for allergy-related outcomes? Clin Exp Allergy 2019; 49:663-676. [PMID: 30633850 PMCID: PMC6518997 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [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] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Background It is proposed that helminth exposure protects against allergy‐related disease, by mechanisms that include disconnecting risk factors (such as atopy) from effector responses. Objective We aimed to assess how helminth exposure influences rural‐urban differences in risk factors for allergy‐related outcomes in tropical low‐ and middle‐income countries. Methods In cross‐sectional surveys in Ugandan rural Schistosoma mansoni (Sm)‐endemic islands, and in nearby mainland urban communities with lower helminth exposure, we assessed risk factors for atopy (allergen‐specific skin prick test [SPT] reactivity and IgE [asIgE] sensitization) and clinical allergy‐related outcomes (wheeze, urticaria, rhinitis and visible flexural dermatitis), and effect modification by Sm exposure. Results Dermatitis and SPT reactivity were more prevalent among urban participants, urticaria and asIgE sensitization among rural participants. Pairwise associations between clinical outcomes, and between atopy and clinical outcomes, were stronger in the urban survey. In the rural survey, SPT positivity was inversely associated with bathing in lakewater, Schistosoma‐specific IgG4 and Sm infection. In the urban survey, SPT positivity was positively associated with age, non‐Ugandan maternal tribe, being born in a city/town, BCG scar and light Sm infection. Setting (rural vs urban) was an effect modifier for risk factors including Sm‐ and Schistosoma‐specific IgG4. In both surveys, the dominant risk factors for asIgE sensitization were Schistosoma‐specific antibody levels and helminth infections. Handwashing and recent malaria treatment reduced odds of asIgE sensitization among rural but not urban participants. Risk factors for clinical outcomes also differed by setting. Despite suggestive trends, we did not find sufficient evidence to conclude that helminth (Sm) exposure explained rural‐urban differences in risk factors. Conclusions and clinical relevance Risk factors for allergy‐related outcomes differ between rural and urban communities in Uganda but helminth exposure is unlikely to be the sole mechanism of the observed effect modification between the two settings. Other environmental exposures may contribute significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lawrence Lubyayi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Serge A Versteeg
- Departments of Experimental Immunology and of Otorhinolaryngology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jacent Nassuuna
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joyce Kabagenyi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Prossy N Kabuubi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Josephine Tumusiime
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Christopher Zziwa
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Robert Kizindo
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emmanuel Niwagaba
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Carol Nanyunja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Harriet Mpairwe
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald van Ree
- Departments of Experimental Immunology and of Otorhinolaryngology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Nampijja M, Kizindo R, Apule B, Lule S, Muhangi L, Titman A, Elliott A, Alcock K, Lewis C. The role of the home environment in neurocognitive development of children living in extreme poverty and with frequent illnesses: a cross-sectional study. Wellcome Open Res 2018; 3:152. [PMID: 30687794 PMCID: PMC6338129 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.14702.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The home environment is reported to contribute significantly to children’s developing cognitive skills. However, it is not yet evident whether this role prevails in the context of extreme poverty and frequent ill-health. We therefore investigated the role of the home environment in Ugandan children taking into account the frequent infections and extreme poverty in which they lived. Methods: Cognitive abilities of 163 5-year-old children were assessed. Home environments of these children, their health status and family socioeconomic status (SES) were assessed respectively using the EC-HOME, anthropometry and illnesses, and traditional SES measures. Structural equation analyses compared five models on the influence of the home environment, SES, and child health on the cognitive scores. Results: The model in which the home environment mediates the combined influence of SES and child health on cognitive performance showed a particularly good fit to the data compared with the four alternative models, i.e. those in which the HOME, SES and health independently influence cognitive performance. Conclusions: Home environments providing cognitive stimulation can enable children to overcome effects of major adverse life experiences on cognitive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- Coinfections Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Plot 51-59 Nakiwogo Road Entebbe. P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Robert Kizindo
- Coinfections Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Plot 51-59 Nakiwogo Road Entebbe. P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Barbara Apule
- Coinfections Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Plot 51-59 Nakiwogo Road Entebbe. P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Swaib Lule
- Coinfections Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Plot 51-59 Nakiwogo Road Entebbe. P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Lawrence Muhangi
- Coinfections Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Plot 51-59 Nakiwogo Road Entebbe. P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Andrew Titman
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Fylde College LA1 4YF, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Alison Elliott
- Coinfections Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Plot 51-59 Nakiwogo Road Entebbe. P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Katie Alcock
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Fylde College LA1 4YF, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Charlie Lewis
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Fylde College LA1 4YF, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
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Nkurunungi G, Kabagenyi J, Nampijja M, Sanya RE, Walusimbi B, Nassuuna J, Webb EL, Elliott AM. Schistosoma mansoni-specific immune responses and allergy in Uganda. Parasite Immunol 2017; 40. [PMID: 29171863 PMCID: PMC5767746 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Low allergy‐related disease (ARD) prevalence in low‐income countries may be partly attributed to helminth infections. In the Schistosoma mansoni (Sm)‐endemic Lake Victoria islands (Uganda), we recently observed positive helminth‐allergy associations, despite low ARD prevalence. To understand how Sm‐induced cytokine and antibody profiles might influence allergic response profiles in this population, we assessed Schistosoma worm (SWA)‐ and egg antigen (SEA)‐specific Th1 (IFN‐γ), Th2 (IL‐5, IL‐13) and regulatory (IL‐10) cytokine profiles (n = 407), and total (n = 471), SWA‐, SEA‐ and allergen (house dust mite [HDM] and cockroach)‐specific (as)IgE and IgG4 profiles (n = 2117) by ELISA. Wheeze was inversely associated with SWA‐specific IFN‐γ (P < .001) and IL‐10 (P = .058), and SEA‐specific IL‐5 (P = .004). Conversely, having a detectable asIgE response was positively associated with SWA‐specific IL‐5 (P = .006) and IL‐10 (P < .001). Total, SWA‐, SEA‐ and allergen‐specific IgE and IgG4 responses were higher among Sm Kato‐Katz positive (SmKK+) and skin prick test (SPT)+ individuals compared to SmKK‐ and SPT‐ individuals. However, total and asIgG4/IgE ratios were lower among SPT+ and wheezing individuals. We conclude that, in this population, helminth‐induced antibody and cytokine responses may underlie individual positive helminth‐atopy associations, while the overall IgG4‐IgE balance may contribute to the low overall prevalence of clinical allergies in such settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - J Kabagenyi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - M Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - R E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - B Walusimbi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - J Nassuuna
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - E L Webb
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - A M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Lule SA, Mpairwe H, Nampijja M, Akello F, Kabagenyi J, Namara B, Nkurunungi G, Kizito D, Kahwa J, Muhangi L, Nash S, Muwanga M, Webb EL, Elliott AM. Life-course of atopy and allergy-related disease events in tropical sub-Saharan Africa: A birth cohort study. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2017; 28:377-383. [PMID: 28339128 PMCID: PMC5488189 DOI: 10.1111/pai.12719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In high-income countries, allergy-related diseases (ARDs) follow a typical sequence, the 'Atopic March'. Little is known about the life-course of ARDs in the markedly different, low-income, tropical environment. We describe ARDs in a tropical, African birth cohort. METHODS Ugandan children were followed from birth to 9 years. ISAAC questionnaires were completed at intervals; doctor-diagnosed ARDs were recorded throughout follow-up. Skin prick tests (SPTs) were performed at 3 and 9 years. Atopy was defined as ≥1 positive SPT. RESULTS Of the 2345 live-born children, 1214 (52%) were seen at 9 years. Wheeze and eczema were common in infancy, but by 9 years, only 4% reported recent wheeze, 5% eczema and 5% rhinitis. Between 3 and 9 years, atopy prevalence increased from 19% to 25%. Atopy at 3 or 9 years was associated with reported ARD events at 9 years, for example OR = 5.2 (95% CI 2.9-10.7) for atopy and recent wheeze at 9 years. Reported or doctor-diagnosed ARD events in early childhood were associated with the same events in later childhood, for example OR = 4.4 (2.3-8.4) for the association between reported wheeze before 3 years with reported recent wheeze at 9 years, but progression from early eczema to later rhinitis or asthma was not observed. CONCLUSION Allergen sensitization started early in childhood and increased with age. Eczema and wheeze were common in infancy and declined with age. Atopy was strongly associated with ARD among the few affected children. The typical Atopic March did not occur. Environmental exposures during childhood may dissociate atopy and ARD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swaib A. Lule
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research UnitEntebbeUganda
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research UnitEntebbeUganda
| | | | | | | | - Stephen Nash
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | | | - Emily L. Webb
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Alison M. Elliott
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research UnitEntebbeUganda
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Webb EL, Nampijja M, Kaweesa J, Kizindo R, Namutebi M, Nakazibwe E, Oduru G, Kabubi P, Kabagenyi J, Nkurunungi G, Kizito D, Muhangi L, Akello M, Verweij JJ, Nerima B, Tukahebwa E, Elliott AM, Sanya R, Mirembe B, Okello J, Levin J, Zziwa C, Tumusiime J, Sewankambo M, Nsubuga D, Cose S, Wammes L, Niwagaba E, Kabami G, Abayo E, Muwonge F, Abiriga D, Nannozi V, Kaweesa J. Helminths are positively associated with atopy and wheeze in Ugandan fishing communities: results from a cross-sectional survey. Allergy 2016; 71:1156-69. [PMID: 26918891 PMCID: PMC4949563 DOI: 10.1111/all.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [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] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Background Parasitic helminths are potent immunomodulators and chronic infections may protect against allergy‐related disease and atopy. We conducted a cross‐sectional survey to test the hypothesis that in heavily helminth‐exposed fishing villages on Lake Victoria, Uganda, helminth infections would be inversely associated with allergy‐related conditions. Methods A household survey was conducted as baseline to an anthelminthic intervention trial. Outcomes were reported wheeze in last year, atopy assessed both by skin prick test (SPT) and by the measurement of allergen‐specific IgE to dust mites and cockroach in plasma. Helminth infections were ascertained by stool, urine and haemoparasitology. Associations were examined using multivariable regression. Results Two thousand three hundred and sixteen individuals were surveyed. Prevalence of reported wheeze was 2% in under‐fives and 5% in participants ≥5 years; 19% had a positive SPT; median Dermatophagoides‐specific IgE and cockroach‐specific IgE were 1440 and 220 ng/ml, respectively. S. mansoni, N. americanus, S. stercoralis, T. trichiura, M. perstans and A. lumbricoides prevalence was estimated as 51%, 22%, 12%, 10%, 2% and 1%, respectively. S. mansoni was positively associated with Dermatophagoides‐specific IgE [adjusted geometric mean ratio (aGMR) (95% confidence interval) 1.64 (1.23, 2.18)]; T. trichiura with SPT [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.08 (1.38, 3.15)]; M. perstans with cockroach‐specific IgE [aGMR 2.37 (1.39, 4.06)], A. lumbricoides with wheeze in participants ≥5 years [aOR 6.36 (1.10, 36.63)] and with Dermatophagoides‐specific IgE [aGMR 2.34 (1.11, 4.95)]. No inverse associations were observed. Conclusions Contrary to our hypothesis, we found little evidence of an inverse relationship between helminths and allergy‐related outcomes, but strong evidence that individuals with certain helminths were more prone to atopy in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. L. Webb
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London UK
| | - M. Nampijja
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - J. Kaweesa
- Vector Control Division Ministry of Health Kampala Uganda
| | - R. Kizindo
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - M. Namutebi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | | | | | - P. Kabubi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - J. Kabagenyi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - G. Nkurunungi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - D. Kizito
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - L. Muhangi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - M. Akello
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - J. J. Verweij
- Laboratory for Medical Microbiology and Immunology St Elisabeth Hospital LC Tilburg the Netherlands
| | - B. Nerima
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
| | - E. Tukahebwa
- Vector Control Division Ministry of Health Kampala Uganda
| | - A. M. Elliott
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London UK
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS Entebbe Uganda
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Sanya RE, Muhangi L, Nampijja M, Nannozi V, Nakawungu PK, Abayo E, Webb EL, Elliott AM. Schistosoma mansoni and HIV infection in a Ugandan population with high HIV and helminth prevalence. Trop Med Int Health 2015; 20:1201-1208. [PMID: 25976017 PMCID: PMC4568314 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Recent reports suggest that Schistosoma infection may increase the risk of acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We used data from a large cross‐sectional study to investigate whether Schistosoma mansoni infection is associated with increased HIV prevalence. Methods We conducted a household survey of residents in island fishing communities in Mukono district, Uganda, between October 2012 and July 2013. HIV status was assessed using rapid test kits. Kato‐Katz (KK) stool tests and urine‐circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) were used to test for Schistosoma infection. Multivariable logistic regression, allowing for the survey design, was used to investigate the association between S. mansoni infection and HIV infection. Results Data from 1412 participants aged 13 years and older were analysed (mean age 30.3 years, 45% female). The prevalence of HIV was 17.3%. Using the stool Kato‐Katz technique on a single sample, S. mansoni infection was detected in 57.2% (719/1257) of participants; urine CCA was positive in 73.8% (478/650) of those tested. S. mansoni infection was not associated with HIV infection. [KK (aOR = 1.04; 95% CI: 0.74–1.47, P = 0.81), CCA (aOR = 1.53; 95% CI: 0.78–3.00, P = 0.19)]. The median S. mansoni egg count per gram was lower in the HIV‐positive participants (P = 0.005). Conclusions These results add to the evidence that S. mansoni has little effect on HIV transmission, but may influence egg excretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Sanya
- Medical Research Council/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Lawrence Muhangi
- Medical Research Council/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Medical Research Council/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Medical Research Council/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, Entebbe, Uganda.,London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Nampijja M, Webb EL, Kaweesa J, Kizindo R, Namutebi M, Nakazibwe E, Oduru G, Kabuubi P, Kabagenyi J, Kizito D, Muhangi L, Akello M, Verweij JJ, Nerima B, Tukahebwa E, Elliott AM. The Lake Victoria Island Intervention Study on Worms and Allergy-related diseases (LaVIISWA): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials 2015; 16:187. [PMID: 25902705 PMCID: PMC4413531 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-015-0702-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [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: 10/09/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Hygiene Hypothesis proposes that infection exposure protects against inflammatory conditions. Helminths possess allergen-like molecules and may specifically modulate allergy-related immunological pathways to inhibit responses which protect against them. Mass drug administration is recommended for helminth-endemic communities to control helminth-induced pathology, but may also result in increased rates of inflammation-mediated diseases in resource-poor settings. Immunological studies integrated with implementation of helminth control measures may elucidate how helminth elimination contributes to ongoing epidemics of inflammatory diseases. We present the design of the Lake Victoria Island Intervention Study on Worms and Allergy-related diseases (LaVIISWA), a cluster-randomised trial evaluating the risks and benefits of intensive versus standard anthelminthic treatment for allergy-related diseases and other health outcomes. Methods/Design The setting is comprised of island fishing communities in Mukono district, Uganda. Twenty-six communities have been randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive standard or intensive anthelminthic intervention for a three-year period. Baseline characteristics were collected immediately prior to intervention rollout, commenced in February 2013. Primary outcomes are reported wheeze in the past 12 months and atopy (skin prick test response and allergen-specific immunoglobulin (asIg) E concentration). Secondary outcomes are visible flexural dermatitis, helminth infections, haemoglobin, growth parameters, hepatosplenomegaly, and responses to vaccine antigens. The trial provides a platform for in-depth analysis of clinical and immunological consequences of the contrasting interventions. Discussion The baseline survey has been completed successfully in a challenging environment. Baseline characteristics were balanced between trial arms. Prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni, hookworm, Strongyloides stercoralis and Trichuris trichiura was 52%, 23%, 13%, and 12%, respectively; 31% of Schistosoma mansoni infections were heavy (>400 eggs/gram). The prevalence of reported wheeze and positive skin prick test to any allergen was 5% and 20%, respectively. Respectively, 77% and 87% of participants had Dermatophagoides- and German cockroach-specific IgE above 0.35 kUA/L. These characteristics suggest that the LaVIISWA study will provide an excellent framework for investigating beneficial and detrimental effects of worms and their treatment, and the mechanisms of such effects. Trial registration This trial was registered with Current Controlled Trials (identifier: ISRCTN47196031) on 7 September 2012. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-015-0702-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - James Kaweesa
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, PO Box 1661, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Robert Kizindo
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Milly Namutebi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | | | - Gloria Oduru
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Prossy Kabuubi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Joyce Kabagenyi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Dennison Kizito
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Lawrence Muhangi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Mirriam Akello
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Jaco J Verweij
- Laboratory for Medical Microbiology and Immunology, St Elisabeth Hospital, Postbus 90151, 5000 LC, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
| | - Barbara Nerima
- Uganda Virus Research Institute, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Edridah Tukahebwa
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, PO Box 1661, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Alison M Elliott
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda. .,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
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Lule SA, Mawa PA, Nkurunungi G, Nampijja M, Kizito D, Akello F, Muhangi L, Elliott AM, Webb EL. Factors associated with tuberculosis infection, and with anti-mycobacterial immune responses, among five year olds BCG-immunised at birth in Entebbe, Uganda. Vaccine 2014; 33:796-804. [PMID: 25529292 PMCID: PMC4317190 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [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] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Urban residence and history of TB contact/disease were associated with increased risk of latent TB infection at age five years. BCG vaccine strain, LTBI, HIV and malaria infections, and anthropometry predict anti-mycobacterial immune responses. Helminth infections do not influence response to BCG vaccination. Cytokine responses at one year were not associated with LTBI at age five years.
Background BCG is used widely as the sole licensed vaccine against tuberculosis, but it has variable efficacy and the reasons for this are still unclear. No reliable biomarkers to predict future protection against, or acquisition of, TB infection following immunisation have been identified. Lessons from BCG could be valuable in the development of effective tuberculosis vaccines. Objectives Within the Entebbe Mother and Baby Study birth cohort in Uganda, infants received BCG at birth. We investigated factors associated with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and with cytokine response to mycobacterial antigen at age five years. We also investigated whether cytokine responses at one year were associated with LTBI at five years of age. Methods Blood samples from age one and five years were stimulated using crude culture filtrates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a six-day whole blood assay. IFN-γ, IL-5, IL-13 and IL-10 production was measured. LTBI at five years was determined using T-SPOT.TB® assay. Associations with LTBI at five years were assessed using multivariable logistic regression. Multiple linear regression with bootstrapping was used to determine factors associated with cytokine responses at age five years. Results LTBI prevalence was 9% at age five years. Only urban residence and history of TB contact/disease were positively associated with LTBI. BCG vaccine strain, LTBI, HIV infection, asymptomatic malaria, growth z-scores, childhood anthelminthic treatment and maternal BCG scar were associated with cytokine responses at age five. Cytokine responses at one year were not associated with acquisition of LTBI by five years of age. Conclusion Although multiple factors influenced anti-myocbacterial immune responses at age five, factors likely to be associated with exposure to infectious cases (history of household contact, and urban residence) dominated the risk of LTBI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrice A Mawa
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | - Dennison Kizito
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Lawrence Muhangi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Alison M Elliott
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, PO Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
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Mpairwe H, Ndibazza J, Webb EL, Nampijja M, Muhangi L, Apule B, Lule S, Akurut H, Kizito D, Kakande M, Jones FM, Fitzsimmons CM, Muwanga M, Rodrigues LC, Dunne DW, Elliott AM. Maternal hookworm modifies risk factors for childhood eczema: results from a birth cohort in Uganda. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2014; 25:481-8. [PMID: 25171741 PMCID: PMC4312885 DOI: 10.1111/pai.12251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worms may protect against allergy. Early-life worm exposure may be critical, but this has not been fully investigated. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether worms in pregnancy and in early childhood are associated with childhood eczema incidence. METHODS The Entebbe Mother and Baby Study, an anthelminthic treatment trial, enrolled pregnant women between 2003 and 2005 in Uganda. Mothers were investigated for worms during pregnancy and children annually. Eczema was doctor-diagnosed from birth to age five years. A planned observational analysis was conducted within the trial cohort to investigate associations between worms and eczema. RESULTS Data for 2345 live-born children were analysed. Hookworm was the most prevalent maternal worm (45%). Childhood worms were less prevalent. Eczema incidence was 4.68/100 person-years. Maternal hookworm was associated with reduced eczema incidence [adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval), p-value: 0.71(0.51-0.99), 0.04] and modified effects of known risk factors for eczema: Dermatophagoides-specific IgE in children was positively associated with eczema incidence if the mother had no hookworm [2.72(1.11-6.63), 0.03], but not if the mother had hookworm [0.41(0.10-1.69), 0.22], interaction p-value = 0.03. Similar interactions were seen for maternal history of eczema {[2.87(1.31-6.27, 0.008) vs. [0.73(0.23-2.30), 0.60], interaction p-value = 0.05}, female gender {[1.82(1.22-2.73), 0.004 vs. [0.96(0.60-1.53), 0.87], interaction p-value = 0.04} and allergen-specific IgE. Childhood Trichuris trichiura and hookworm were inversely associated with eczema. CONCLUSIONS Maternal hookworm modifies effects of known risk factors for eczema. Mechanisms by which early-life worm exposures influence allergy need investigation. Worms or worm products, and intervention during pregnancy have potential for primary prevention of allergy.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the reliability of maternally recalled birthweight and size in Entebbe, Uganda. METHODS The study population comprised 404 mothers, who were participants in the Entebbe Mother and Baby Study (EMaBS). Mothers were recruited to EMaBS during antenatal care, maternal characteristics were recorded during pregnancy, and birthweight was recorded at delivery. Four to seven years after delivery, mothers were asked to recall the child's birthweight and size. Their responses were compared with the birthweight recorded in the EMaBS database. RESULTS Of 404 interviewed mothers, 303 (75%) were able to give an estimate of birthweight and for 265 of these EMaBS data on recorded birthweights were available. Women who were educated and whose children had low birth order were more likely to be able to give an estimate: 37 (14%) recalled the exact recorded birthweight; a further 52 (20%) were accurate to within 0.1 kg of the recorded weight. On average, mothers overestimated birthweight by 0.06 kg (95% CI: 0.00-0.13 kg, P = 0.04). Recalled and recorded birthweights showed moderate agreement with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.64. Four hundered mothers gave an estimate of birth size: the sensitivity and specificity of recalled birth size for classifying low birthweight were 76% (95% CI: 50-93%) and 70% (95% CI: 65-75%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Mothers' recall of birthweight was not precise but in absence of other data, recall of birthweight and size may have some value in epidemiological studies in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swaib A Lule
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK Entebbe Hospital, Entebbe, Uganda
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Anderson EJ, Webb EL, Mawa PA, Kizza M, Lyadda N, Nampijja M, Elliott AM. The influence of BCG vaccine strain on mycobacteria-specific and non-specific immune responses in a prospective cohort of infants in Uganda. Vaccine 2012; 30:2083-9. [PMID: 22300718 PMCID: PMC3314967 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.01.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2011] [Revised: 01/14/2012] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, BCG vaccination varies in efficacy and has some non-specific protective effects. Previous studies comparing BCG strains have been small-scale, with few or no immunological outcomes and have compared TB-specific responses only. We aimed to evaluate both specific and non-specific immune responses to different strains of BCG within a large infant cohort and to evaluate further the relationship between BCG strain, scarring and cytokine responses. METHODS Infants from the Entebbe Mother and Baby Study (ISRCTN32849447) who received BCG-Russia, BCG-Bulgaria or BCG-Denmark at birth, were analysed by BCG strain group. At one year, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-5, IL-13 and IL-10 responses to mycobacteria-specific antigens (crude culture filtrate proteins and antigen 85) and non-mycobacterial stimuli (tetanus toxoid and phytohaemagglutinin) were measured using ELISA. Cytokine responses, scar frequency, BCG associated adverse event frequency and mortality rates were compared across groups, with adjustments for potential confounders. RESULTS Both specific and non-specific IFN-γ, IL-13 and IL-10 responses in 1341 infants differed between BCG strain groups including in response to stimulation with tetanus toxoid. BCG-Denmark immunised infants showed the highest cytokine responses. The proportion of infants who scarred differed significantly, with BCG scars occurring in 52.2%, 64.1% and 92.6% of infants immunised with BCG Russia, BCG-Bulgaria and BCG-Denmark, respectively (p<0.001). Scarred infants had higher IFN-γ and IL-13 responses to mycobacterial antigens only than infants without a scar. The BCG-Denmark group had the highest frequency of adverse events (p=0.025). Mortality differences were not significant. CONCLUSIONS Both specific and non-specific immune responses to the BCG vaccine differ by strain. Scarring after BCG vaccination is also strain-dependent and is associated with higher IFN-γ and IL-13 responses to mycobacterial antigens. The choice of BCG strain may be an important factor and should be evaluated when testing novel vaccine strategies that employ BCG in prime-boost sequences, or as a vector for other vaccine antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily L. Webb
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Patrice A. Mawa
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Moses Kizza
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | - Alison M. Elliott
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
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Ndibazza J, Lule S, Nampijja M, Mpairwe H, Oduru G, Kiggundu M, Akello M, Muhangi L, Elliott AM. A description of congenital anomalies among infants in Entebbe, Uganda. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 91:857-61. [PMID: 21770020 PMCID: PMC3272344 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.20838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2011] [Revised: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Data on congenital anomalies from developing countries of the sub-Saharan region are scarce. However, it is important to have comprehensive and reliable data on the description and prevalence of congenital anomalies to allow surveillance and the implementation of appropriate public health strategies for prevention and management. In this study, we describe the profile of congenital anomalies seen in a birth cohort in Entebbe, Uganda. METHODS: Congenital anomalies were defined as any structural defect present at birth. Pregnant women were recruited to the cohort between 2003 and 2005. Defects present at birth were recorded by the midwife at delivery and by physicians at the routine six-week postnatal visit and at illness-related visits until 1 year of life. The anomalies were classified by organ system according to the 10th version of the World Health Organization International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). RESULTS: There were 180 infants with a congenital anomaly among 2365 births. The most commonly affected systems were the musculoskeletal (42.7 per 1000 births) and skin (16.1 per 1000 births). The prevalence of major anomalies was 20.3 per 1000 births; 1.7 per 1000 births for cardiac anomalies and 1.3 per 1000 births for neural system anomalies. Forty (22%) of the congenital anomalies were identified at birth, 131 (73%) at the 6-week postnatal visit, and nine (5%) at illness-related visits. CONCLUSION: Congenital anomalies are common in developing countries. Establishment of comprehensive databases for surveillance would be helpful for surveillance of effects of new exposures, for prevention, management, and health care planning. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2011. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliet Ndibazza
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.
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Mpairwe H, Webb EL, Muhangi L, Ndibazza J, Akishule D, Nampijja M, Ngom-wegi S, Tumusime J, Jones FM, Fitzsimmons C, Dunne DW, Muwanga M, Rodrigues LC, Elliott AM. Anthelminthic treatment during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of infantile eczema: randomised-controlled trial results. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22:305-12. [PMID: 21255083 PMCID: PMC3130136 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3038.2010.01122.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergy is commoner in developed than in developing countries. Chronic worm infections show inverse associations with allergy, and prenatal exposures may be critical to allergy risk. OBJECTIVE To determine whether anthelminthic treatment during pregnancy increases the risk of allergy in infancy. METHODS A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on treatment in pregnancy with albendazole versus placebo and praziquantel versus placebo was conducted in Uganda, with a 2 × 2 factorial design; 2507 women were enrolled; infants' allergy events were recorded prospectively. The main outcome was doctor-diagnosed infantile eczema. RESULTS Worms were detected in 68% of women before treatment. Doctor-diagnosed infantile eczema incidence was 10.4/100 infant years. Maternal albendazole treatment was associated with a significantly increased risk of eczema [Cox HR (95% CI), p: 1.82 (1.26-2.64), 0.002]; this effect was slightly stronger among infants whose mothers had no albendazole-susceptible worms than among infants whose mothers had such worms, although this difference was not statistically significant. Praziquantel showed no effect overall but was associated with increased risk among infants of mothers with Schistosoma mansoni [2.65 (1.16-6.08), interaction p = 0.02]. In a sample of infants, skin prick test reactivity and allergen-specific IgE were both associated with doctor-diagnosed eczema, indicating atopic aetiology. Albendazole was also strongly associated with reported recurrent wheeze [1.58 (1.13-2.22), 0.008]; praziquantel showed no effect. CONCLUSIONS The detrimental effects of treatment suggest that exposure to maternal worm infections in utero may protect against eczema and wheeze in infancy. The results for albendazole are also consistent with a direct drug effect. Further studies are required to investigate mechanisms of these effects, possible benefits of worms or worm products in primary prevention of allergy, and the possibility that routine deworming during pregnancy may promote allergic disease in the offspring.
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Child S, Luck FT, Schofield C, Hopkins L, Nampijja M, Duff S, Taylor J, Otero S, Mannay D, Kefalidou G, Young JB. Reviews: Child Development, Culture and Psychological Development, Discovering Statistics Using SPSS (3rd ed.), Doing Qualitative Research in Psychology: A Practical Guide, Essential Psychology: A Concise Introduction, Movies and Mental Illness: Using Films to Understand Psychopathology (3rd ed.), Psychological Groupwork with Acute Psychiatric Patients, Psychology: The Science of Mind and Behaviour, Theories of Developmental Psychology, Your Psychology Project Handbook: Becoming a Researcher, Loftus Speaks. Psychology Learning & Teaching 2011. [DOI: 10.2304/plat.2011.10.1.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Child
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Cathy Schofield
- University of Plymouth Colleges, Truro College campus, United Kingdom
| | - Laurence Hopkins
- Department of Psychology, Liverpool Hope University, United Kingdom
| | | | - Simon Duff
- Division of Clinical Psychology, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Taylor
- Applied Psychology, University of Cumbria, United Kingdom
| | | | - Dawn Mannay
- School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, United Kingdom
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Webb EL, Mawa PA, Ndibazza J, Kizito D, Namatovu A, Kyosiimire-Lugemwa J, Nanteza B, Nampijja M, Muhangi L, Woodburn PW, Akurut H, Mpairwe H, Akello M, Lyadda N, Bukusuba J, Kihembo M, Kizza M, Kizindo R, Nabulime J, Ameke C, Namujju PB, Tweyongyere R, Muwanga M, Whitworth JAG, Elliott AM. Effect of single-dose anthelmintic treatment during pregnancy on an infant's response to immunisation and on susceptibility to infectious diseases in infancy: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2011; 377:52-62. [PMID: 21176950 PMCID: PMC3018567 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(10)61457-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helminth infections affect the human immune response. We investigated whether prenatal exposure to and treatment of maternal helminth infections affects development of an infant's immune response to immunisations and unrelated infections. METHODS In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, we enrolled 2507 women in the second or third trimester of pregnancy who were planning to deliver in Entebbe General Hospital, Entebbe, Uganda. With a computer-generated random number sequence in blocks of 100, we assigned patients to 440 mg albendazole and 40 mg/kg praziquantel (n=628), 440 mg albendazole and a praziquantel-matching placebo (n=625), 40 mg/kg praziquantel and an albendazole-matching placebo (n=626), or an albendazole-matching placebo and praziquantel-matching placebo (n=628). All participants and hospital staff were masked to allocation. Primary outcomes were immune response at age 1 year to BCG, tetanus, and measles immunisation; incidence of infectious diseases during infancy; and vertical HIV transmission. Analysis was by intention-to-treat. This trial is registered, number ISRCTN32849447. FINDINGS Data were available at delivery for 2356 women, with 2345 livebirths; 2115 (90%) of liveborn infants remained in follow-up at 1 year of age. Neither albendazole nor praziquantel treatments affected infant response to BCG, tetanus, or measles immunisation. However, in infants of mothers with hookworm infection, albendazole treatment reduced interleukin-5 (geometric mean ratio 0·50, 95% CI 0·30-0·81, interaction p=0·02) and interleukin-13 (0·52, 0·34-0·82, 0·0005) response to tetanus toxoid. The rate per 100 person-years of malaria was 40·9 (95% CI 38·3-43·7), of diarrhoea was 134·1 (129·2-139·2), and of pneumonia was 22·3 (20·4-24·4). We noted no effect on infectious disease incidence for albendazole treatment (malaria [hazard ratio 0·95, 95% CI 0·79-1.14], diarrhoea [1·06, 0·96-1·16], pneumonia [1·11, 0·90-1·38]) or praziquantel treatment (malaria [1·00, 0·84-1·20], diarrhoea [1·07, 0·98-1·18], pneumonia [1·00, 0·80-1·24]). In HIV-exposed infants, 39 (18%) were infected at 6 weeks; vertical transmission was not associated with albendazole (odds ratio 0·70, 95% CI 0·35-1·42) or praziquantel (0·60, 0·29-1·23) treatment. INTERPRETATION These results do not accord with the recently advocated policy of routine antenatal anthelmintic treatment, and the value of such a policy may need to be reviewed. FUNDING Wellcome Trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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Elliott AM, Mawa PA, Webb EL, Nampijja M, Lyadda N, Bukusuba J, Kizza M, Namujju PB, Nabulime J, Ndibazza J, Muwanga M, Whitworth JAG. Effects of maternal and infant co-infections, and of maternal immunisation, on the infant response to BCG and tetanus immunisation. Vaccine 2010; 29:247-55. [PMID: 21040693 PMCID: PMC3021124 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2010.10.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2010] [Revised: 10/14/2010] [Accepted: 10/18/2010] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Some vaccines show poor efficacy in tropical countries. Within a birth cohort in Uganda, we investigated factors that might influence responses to BCG and tetanus immunisation. Whole blood assay responses to crude culture filtrate proteins of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (cCFP)) and tetanus toxoid (TT) were examined among 1506 and 1433 one-year-olds, respectively. Maternal Mansonella perstans infection was associated with higher interleukin (IL)-10 responses to both immunogens but no reduction in gamma interferon (IFN-γ), IL-5 and IL-13 responses; other maternal helminth infections showed little effect. Tetanus immunisation during pregnancy was associated with higher infant responses to TT; maternal BCG scar (from past immunisation) with lower infant IL-5 and IL-13 responses to cCFP. IFN-γ, IL-5 and IL-13 to TT were reduced in HIV-exposed-uninfected infants; infant malaria and HIV were associated with lower IFN-γ, IL-5 and IL-13 responses to both immunogens. We conclude that maternal helminth infections are unlikely to explain poor vaccine efficacy in the tropics. Effects of maternal immunisation on infant responses to vaccines should be explored. Prevention of infant malaria and HIV could contribute to effectiveness of immunisation programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Elliott
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
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