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Downs LO, Kabagambe K, Williams S, Waddilove E, Delphin M, Lumley SF, Ndungutse R, Kimono B, Newton R, Ko J, Martyn E, Carter J, Kemper A, Monteiro F, O'Regan S, Surey J, Sultan B, Story A, MacDonald D, Tu T, Seeley J, Dusheiko G, Maponga T, Andersson MI, Spearman CW, Tucker JD, Cohen C, Wang S, Adda D, Freeland C, Halford R, Jack K, Ghosh I, Elsharkawy AM, Matthews PC, Flanagan S. Peer support for people living with hepatitis B virus-A foundation for treatment expansion. J Viral Hepat 2024. [PMID: 38798022 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) affects 300 million people worldwide and is being targeted by the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), working towards elimination of hepatitis B virus (HBV) as a public health threat. In this piece, we explore the evidence and potential impact of peer support to enhance and promote interventions for people living with CHB. Peer support workers (PSWs) are those with lived experience of an infection, condition or situation who work to provide support for others, aiming to improve education, prevention, treatment and other clinical interventions and to reduce the physical, psychological and social impacts of disease. Peer support has been shown to be a valuable tool for improving health outcomes for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), but to date has not been widely available for communities affected by HBV. HBV disproportionately affects vulnerable and marginalised populations, who could benefit from PSWs to help them navigate complicated systems and provide advocacy, tackle stigma, improve education and representation, and optimise access to treatment and continuity of care. The scale up of peer support must provide structured and supportive career pathways for PSWs, account for social and cultural needs of different communities, adapt to differing healthcare systems and provide flexibility in approaches to care. Investment in peer support for people living with CHB could increase diagnosis, improve retention in care, and support design and roll out of interventions that can contribute to global elimination goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise O Downs
- KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Kenneth Kabagambe
- The National Organization for People Living with Hepatitis B (NOPLHB), Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Sheila F Lumley
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Robert Newton
- Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Joy Ko
- Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Emily Martyn
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Jessica Carter
- The Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Agnieszka Kemper
- Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Fernando Monteiro
- Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sive O'Regan
- Find and Treat, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Julian Surey
- Find and Treat, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Binta Sultan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alistair Story
- Find and Treat, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Douglas MacDonald
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Thomas Tu
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- HepBCommunity.org, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Hepatitis B Voices Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Janet Seeley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Geoffrey Dusheiko
- Department of Hepatology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tongai Maponga
- Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and National Health Laboratory Service, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Monique I Andersson
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - C Wendy Spearman
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Chari Cohen
- Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Su Wang
- Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, Pennsylvania, USA
- Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, Florham Park, New Jersey, USA
| | - Danjuma Adda
- World Hepatitis Alliance, London, UK
- CFID/CCT Taraba, Tarabba, Nigeria
| | | | - Rachel Halford
- World Hepatitis Alliance, London, UK
- The Hepatitis C Trust, London, UK
| | - Kathryn Jack
- Hepatology Department, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Indrajit Ghosh
- Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Find and Treat, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Ahmed M Elsharkawy
- Liver Unit and National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at the University Hospitals Birmingham, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Philippa C Matthews
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Stuart Flanagan
- Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
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Russo S, Telfer J, Silva C, Daly E, Browning S. Haemodialysis machine designation for patients with chronic Hepatitis B virus: A practice and attitudes survey of Australian renal healthcare workers. Infect Dis Health 2024; 29:107-111. [PMID: 38485528 DOI: 10.1016/j.idh.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To reduce the risk of viral transmission, guidelines recommend the use of designated haemodialysis machines and patient isolation for patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV). These practices are without a strong evidence base, and may no longer be necessary in the setting of heat disinfection programs and standard precautions. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey was developed for renal clinicians across Australia and New Zealand to explore infection prevention policy concerning patients with chronic HBV in haemodialysis units. We sought to determine whether psychosocial and cultural impacts might result from the mandatory use of machine designation and patient isolation practices, as perceived by multidisciplinary healthcare workers with experience working with this patient population. RESULTS Sixty-seven responses from 27 health districts across all states of Australia and one New Zealand district were received. Most respondents were from urban areas (65%), and were nurses (87%). 50% of health districts reported using designated machines, while 32% isolate patients. Lack of necessary resources limited the use of designated machines (57%), and patient isolation (78%). Respondents not routinely using these precautions were more likely to express concerns regarding patient psychosocial wellbeing and cultural appropriateness. Overall, 30% of respondents expressed concerns regarding the cultural appropriateness of these recommendations. CONCLUSION We demonstrate wide variation in haemodialysis infection prevention and control policy and practice with regards to managing patients with chronic HBV. While use of standard precautions and machine disinfection are consistently applied, resource availability and concerns for patient psychosocial wellbeing limit adherence to international guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Russo
- Department of Nephrology, Medical & Interventional Services, John Hunter Hospital, Hunter New England Local Health District, New South Wales, Australia. https://twitter.com/renalrusso
| | - Jill Telfer
- Dialysis Services, Peel, Mehi and Tablelands Sectors, Hunter New England Local Health District, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carla Silva
- Department of Nephrology, Medical & Interventional Services, John Hunter Hospital, Hunter New England Local Health District, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eliza Daly
- Department of Nephrology, Medical & Interventional Services, John Hunter Hospital, Hunter New England Local Health District, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah Browning
- Infection Prevention Service, Hunter New England Local Health District, New South Wales, Australia; University of Newcastle, School of Medicine and Public Health, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia; Infection Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.
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Delphin M, Mohammed KS, Downs LO, Lumley SF, Waddilove E, Okanda D, Aliyan N, Van Schalkwyk M, Anderson M, Ocama P, Maponga T, Torimiro J, Iwuji C, Ndung'u T, Matthews PC, Taljaard J. Under-representation of the WHO African region in clinical trials of interventions against hepatitis B virus infection. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 9:383-392. [PMID: 38367632 PMCID: PMC7616036 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00315-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
The WHO African region bears a disproportionate burden of morbidity and mortality related to chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and accounts for an estimated 70% of new HBV infections worldwide. We investigated the extent to which HBV clinical trials represented populations in this region by searching the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ClinicalTrials.gov for interventional clinical trials published in English between database inception and May 29, 2023, using the search term "Hepatitis B". We identified 1804 unique clinical trials, of which 18 (1·0%) recorded involvement of the WHO African region. There is no evidence that the number of HBV clinical trials in this region has improved over time. The diversity of new interventions and industry sponsorship in the WHO African region were low, with trials of HBV comparing poorly with those of other endemic infectious diseases (eg, malaria, HIV, and SARS-CoV-2). HBV research and clinical trial investigations have neglected the WHO African region, leading to profound health inequities. HBV clinical trials are urgently needed to evaluate the efficacy of newly discovered therapeutics and to ensure that interventions can be equitably distributed and deployed as they become available.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Khadija Said Mohammed
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK; Division of Biosciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Louise O Downs
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK; Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Sheila F Lumley
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Dorcas Okanda
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Marije Van Schalkwyk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University-Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Motswedi Anderson
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK; Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Princess Marina Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana; Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ponsiano Ocama
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tongai Maponga
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University-National Health Laboratory Service Tygerberg Business Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Judith Torimiro
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Chantal Biya International Reference Centre for AIDS Research, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Collins Iwuji
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa; Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Thumbi Ndung'u
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK; Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Philippa C Matthews
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK; Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK; Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospital, London, London, UK.
| | - Jantjie Taljaard
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University-Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Toumi M, Wallace J, Cohen C, Marshall C, Kitchen H, Macey J, Pegram H, Slagle AF, Gish RG, Ning Q, Yatsuhashi H, Cornberg M, Brunetto M, van Bömmel F, Xie Q, Lee D, Habuka N, Sbarigia U, Beumont-Mauviel M, Keever AV, Takahashi Y, Lu Y, Liu A, Chen Q, Ito T, Radunz O, Puggina A, Hilgard G, Chan EKH, Wang S. Experience and impact of stigma in people with chronic hepatitis B: a qualitative study in Asia, Europe, and the United States. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:611. [PMID: 38408941 PMCID: PMC10895774 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17263-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) commonly experience social and self-stigma. This study sought to understand the impacts of CHB-related stigma and a functional cure on stigma. METHODS Adults with CHB with a wide range of age and education were recruited from 5 countries and participated in 90-minute qualitative, semi-structured interviews to explore concepts related to CHB-associated stigma and its impact. Participants answered open-ended concept-elicitation questions regarding their experience of social and self-stigma, and the potential impact of reduced CHB-related stigma. RESULTS Sixty-three participants aged 25 to 71 years (15 from the United States and 12 each from China, Germany, Italy, and Japan) reported emotional, lifestyle, and social impacts of living with CHB, including prejudice, marginalization, and negative relationship and work experiences. Self-stigma led to low self-esteem, concealment of CHB status, and social withdrawal. Most participants stated a functional cure for hepatitis B would reduce self-stigma. CONCLUSIONS CHB-related social and self-stigma are widely prevalent and affect many aspects of life. A functional cure for hepatitis B may reduce social and self-stigma and substantially improve the health-related quality of life of people with CHB. Incorporating stigma into guidelines along with infectivity considerations may broaden the patient groups who should receive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mondher Toumi
- Aix-Marseille University, Jardin du Pharo, 58 bd Charles Livon, Marseille, 13284 Cedex 07, France.
- Department of Public Health, Aix-Marseille University, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille, 13385, France.
| | - Jack Wallace
- Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Chari Cohen
- Hepatitis B Foundation, 3805 Old Easton Rd, Doylestown, PA, 18902, USA
| | - Chris Marshall
- Clarivate (formerly DRG Abacus), 70 St Mary Axe, London, EC3A 8BE, UK
| | - Helen Kitchen
- Clarivate (formerly DRG Abacus), 70 St Mary Axe, London, EC3A 8BE, UK
| | - Jake Macey
- Clarivate (formerly DRG Abacus), 70 St Mary Axe, London, EC3A 8BE, UK
| | - Hannah Pegram
- Clarivate (formerly DRG Abacus), 70 St Mary Axe, London, EC3A 8BE, UK
| | - Ashley F Slagle
- Aspen Consulting, LLC, 625 S Lincoln Ave #101, Steamboat Springs, CO, 80487, USA
| | - Robert G Gish
- Hepatitis B Foundation, 3805 Old Easton Rd, Doylestown, PA, 18902, USA
| | - Qin Ning
- Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jie Fang Avenue, Hankou, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hiroshi Yatsuhashi
- National Hospital Organization (NHO) Nagasaki Medical Center, 2-1001-1, Kubara, Omura, Nagasaki, 856-8562, Japan
- Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki City, 852-8520, Japan
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Maurizia Brunetto
- University Hospital of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Florian van Bömmel
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Liebigstrasse 20, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Qing Xie
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, 227 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai, 20025, China
| | - Dee Lee
- Inno Community Development Organisation, Room 208, Dengzheng Business Center, #57, Dengzhengnan Rd, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Noriyuki Habuka
- Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K, 3-5-2 Nishi-kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0065, Japan
| | - Urbano Sbarigia
- Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Turnhoutseweg 30, Beerse, B-2340, Belgium
| | - Maria Beumont-Mauviel
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, 1125 Trenton Harbourton Rd, Titusville, NJ, 08560, USA
| | | | - Yasushi Takahashi
- Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K, 3-5-2 Nishi-kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0065, Japan
| | - Yiwei Lu
- Janssen China, 14F, Tower 3, China Central Place, No.77, Jian Guo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100025, China
| | - Ao Liu
- Janssen China, 14F, Tower 3, China Central Place, No.77, Jian Guo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100025, China
| | - Qiaoqiao Chen
- Janssen China, 14F, Tower 3, China Central Place, No.77, Jian Guo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100025, China
| | - Tetsuro Ito
- Janssen Health Economics & Market Access (EMEA), 50-100 Holmers Farm Way, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP12 4EG, UK
| | - Olaf Radunz
- Janssen Germany, Johnson-u.-Johnson-Platz 1, 41470, Neuss, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Anna Puggina
- Janssen Italy, Via Michelangelo Buonarroti, 23, Cologno Monzese, 20093, Italy
| | - Gudrun Hilgard
- Janssen Germany, Johnson-u.-Johnson-Platz 1, 41470, Neuss, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Eric K H Chan
- Janssen Global Services, LLC, 1000 US 202, Raritan, NJ, 08869, USA.
| | - Su Wang
- Hepatitis B Foundation, 3805 Old Easton Rd, Doylestown, PA, 18902, USA
- Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, 222 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park, NJ, 07932, USA
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Harrison J, Lind P, Sawleshwarkar S, Pasupathy D, Yapa HM. Rapid systematic review of interventions to improve antenatal screening rates for syphilis, hepatitis B, and HIV in low- and middle-income countries. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38391190 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious diseases including syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B are major contributors to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The World Health Organization has prioritized elimination of vertical transmission of these three diseases. OBJECTIVES To rapidly assess the impact of interventions designed to improve antenatal screening rates for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B in LMICs and to identify areas for future implementation research. SEARCH STRATEGY A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and EconLit, targeting articles published between January 1, 2013, and June 27, 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA We included quantitative interventional studies in English, involving pregnant adults (15 years or older) from LMICs. Exclusions were studies based in high-income countries, qualitative studies, or those investigating accuracy of diagnostic methods. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS From an initial 5549 potential studies, 27 were finalized for review after various screening stages. Data extraction covered aspects such as study design, intervention details, and outcomes. Findings were qualitatively synthesized within a systems thinking framework. MAIN RESULTS The interventions assessed varied in terms of geographic locations, health care system levels, and modalities. The review highlighted the effectiveness of interventions such as community health interventions, service quality improvements, and financial incentives. CONCLUSIONS The study underscores the potential of specific interventions in enhancing antenatal screening rates in LMICs. However, there is a discernible research gap concerning hepatitis B. The findings emphasize the importance of capacity building and health systems strengthening in public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Harrison
- Reproduction and Perinatal Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - P Lind
- Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - S Sawleshwarkar
- Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - D Pasupathy
- Reproduction and Perinatal Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - H M Yapa
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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Nguyen LBL, Lemoine M, Ndow G, Ward ZJ, Hallet TB, D'Alessandro U, Thursz M, Nayagam S, Shimakawa Y. Treat All versus targeted strategies to select HBV-infected people for antiviral therapy in The Gambia, west Africa: a cost-effectiveness analysis. Lancet Glob Health 2024; 12:e66-e78. [PMID: 38097300 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00467-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global elimination of hepatitis B virus (HBV) requires expanded uptake of antiviral therapy, potentially by simplifying testing algorithms, especially in resource-limited countries. We evaluated the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and budget impact of three strategies that determine eligibility for anti-HBV treatment, as compared with the WHO 2015 treatment eligibility criteria, in The Gambia. METHODS We developed a microsimulation model of natural history using data from the Prevention of Liver Fibrosis and Cancer in Africa programme (known as PROLIFICA) in The Gambia, for an HBV-infected cohort of individuals aged 20 years. The algorithms included in the model were a conventional strategy using the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) 2017 criteria, a simplified algorithm using hepatitis B e antigen and alanine aminotransferase (the Treatment Eligibility in Africa for the Hepatitis B Virus [TREAT-B] score), a Treat All approach for all HBV-infected individuals, and the WHO 2015 criteria. Outcomes to measure effectiveness were disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and years of life saved (YLS), which were used to calculate incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) with the WHO 2015 criteria as the base-case scenario. Costs were assessed from a modified social perspective. A budget impact analysis was also done. We tested the robustness of results with a range of sensitiviy analyses including probabilistic sensitivity analysis. FINDINGS Compared with the WHO criteria, TREAT-B resulted in 4877 DALYs averted and Treat All resulted in 9352 DALYs averted, whereas the EASL criteria led to an excess of 795 DALYs. TREAT-B was cost-saving, whereas the ICER for Treat All (US$2149 per DALY averted) was higher than the cost-effectiveness threshold for The Gambia (0·5 times the country's gross domestic product per capita: $352). These patterns did not change when YLS was the outcome. In a modelled cohort of 5000 adults (aged 20 years) with chronic HBV infection from The Gambia, the 5-year budget impact was $1·14 million for Treat All, $0·66 million for TREAT-B, $1·03 million for the WHO criteria, and $1·16 million for the EASL criteria. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that among the Treat All, EASL, and TREAT-B algorithms, Treat All would become the most preferred strategy only with a willingness-to-pay threshold exceeding approximately $72 000 per DALY averted or $110 000 per YLS. INTERPRETATION Although the Treat All strategy might be the most effective, it is unlikely to be cost-effective in The Gambia. A simplified strategy such as TREAT-B might be a cost-saving alternative. FUNDING UK Research and Innovation (Medical Research Council). TRANSLATION For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liem B Luong Nguyen
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité d'Épidémiologie des Maladies Émergentes, Paris, France; CIC Cochin Pasteur, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Maud Lemoine
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Disease, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, UK; Medical Research Council Unit, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Gibril Ndow
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Disease, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, UK; Medical Research Council Unit, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Zachary J Ward
- Center for Health Decision Science, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Timothy B Hallet
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Umberto D'Alessandro
- Medical Research Council Unit, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Mark Thursz
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Disease, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Shevanthi Nayagam
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Disease, Liver Unit, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College London, UK; Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Yusuke Shimakawa
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité d'Épidémiologie des Maladies Émergentes, Paris, France.
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Spearman CW, Andersson MI, Bright B, Davwar PM, Desalegn H, Guingane AN, Johannessen A, Kabagambe K, Lemoine M, Matthews PC, Ndow G, Riches N, Shimakawa Y, Sombié R, Stockdale AJ, Taljaard JJ, Vinikoor MJ, Wandeler G, Okeke E, Sonderup M. A new approach to prevent, diagnose, and treat hepatitis B in Africa. BMC GLOBAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 1:24. [PMID: 38798823 PMCID: PMC11116268 DOI: 10.1186/s44263-023-00026-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
There are 82 million people living with hepatitis B (PLWHB) in the World Health Organization Africa region, where it is the main cause of liver disease. Effective vaccines have been available for over 40 years, yet there are 990,000 new infections annually, due to limited implementation of hepatitis B birth dose vaccination and antenatal tenofovir prophylaxis for highly viraemic women, which could eliminate mother-to-child transmission. Despite effective and cheap antiviral treatment which can suppress hepatitis B virus replication and reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), < 2% of PLWHB are diagnosed, and only 0.1% are treated. As a result, PLWHB are frequently diagnosed only when they have already developed decompensated cirrhosis and late-stage HCC, and consequently 80,000 hepatitis B-associated deaths occur each year. Major barriers include complex treatment guidelines which were derived from high-income settings, lack of affordable diagnostics, lack or insufficient domestic funding for hepatitis care, and limited healthcare infrastructure. Current treatment criteria may overlook patients at risk of cirrhosis and HCC. Therefore, expanded and simplified treatment criteria are needed. We advocate for decentralized community treatment programmes, adapted for low-resource and rural settings with limited laboratory infrastructure. We propose a strategy of treat-all except patients fulfilling criteria that suggest low risk of disease progression. Expanded treatment represents a financial challenge requiring concerted action from policy makers, industry, and international donor agencies. It is crucial to accelerate hepatitis B elimination plans, integrate hepatitis B care into existing healthcare programmes, and prioritize longitudinal and implementation research to improve care for PLWHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Wendy Spearman
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Monique I. Andersson
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Division of Medical Virology, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Bisi Bright
- LiveWell Initiative, Yesuf Abiodun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
- Women in Hepatitis Africa, Womens Wellness Center for Hepatitis, Isale Ajoke, Iwaya-Makoko, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Pantong M. Davwar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jos Univeristy Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Hailemichael Desalegn
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alice Nanelin Guingane
- Hepato-Gastroenterology Department, Bogodogo University Hospital Center, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Asgeir Johannessen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kenneth Kabagambe
- The National Organisation for People Living With Hepatitis B, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Maud Lemoine
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Atlantic Boulevard, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Philippa C. Matthews
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT UK
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospital, Euston Road, London, NW1 2BU UK
| | - Gibril Ndow
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Atlantic Boulevard, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Nicholas Riches
- Department of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Yusuke Shimakawa
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité d’Épidémiologie Des Maladies Émergentes, Paris, France
| | - Roger Sombié
- Service d’hépato-Gastroentérologie, CHU Yalgado OUÉDRAOGO, Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Alexander J. Stockdale
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunity, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jantjie J. Taljaard
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tygerberg Hospital and Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michael J. Vinikoor
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Gilles Wandeler
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Edith Okeke
- Department of Medicine, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Mark Sonderup
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - on behalf of the Hepatitis B in Africa Collaborative Network (HEPSANET)
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Division of Medical Virology, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- LiveWell Initiative, Yesuf Abiodun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
- Women in Hepatitis Africa, Womens Wellness Center for Hepatitis, Isale Ajoke, Iwaya-Makoko, Lagos State, Nigeria
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jos Univeristy Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Hepato-Gastroenterology Department, Bogodogo University Hospital Center, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- The National Organisation for People Living With Hepatitis B, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Atlantic Boulevard, Fajara, The Gambia
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT UK
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospital, Euston Road, London, NW1 2BU UK
- Department of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité d’Épidémiologie Des Maladies Émergentes, Paris, France
- Service d’hépato-Gastroentérologie, CHU Yalgado OUÉDRAOGO, Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunity, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tygerberg Hospital and Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
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8
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Cama E, Beadman M, Beadman K, Hopwood M, Treloar C. Health workers' perspectives of hepatitis B-related stigma among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in New South Wales, Australia. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:116. [PMID: 37633903 PMCID: PMC10463284 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00844-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experiences of stigma and discrimination can act as a significant barrier to testing, monitoring, and treatment for hepatitis B virus (HBV). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians are a population disproportionately impacted by HBV and yet limited research has explored HBV-related stigma in these communities. To begin preliminary explorations of HBV-related stigma among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, we interviewed health workers about their perceptions regarding HBV infection and HBV-related stigma. METHODS Participants were recruited from staff involved in the Deadly Liver Mob (DLM) program which is a health promotion program that offers incentives for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients to be educated on viral hepatitis, recruit and educate peers, and receive screening and treatment for blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and sexually transmissible infections (STIs), and vaccination. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander health workers who have been involved in the development, implementation, and/or management of the DLM program within participating services in New South Wales, Australia. RESULTS Findings suggest that stigma is a barrier to accessing mainstream health care among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients, with stigma being complex and multi-layered. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people contend with multiple and intersecting layers of stigma and discrimination in their lives, and thus HBV is just one dimension of those experiences. Health workers perceived that stigma is fuelled by multiple factors, including poor HBV health literacy within the health workforce broadly and among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients, shame about social practices associated with viral hepatitis, and fear of unknown transmission risks and health outcomes. The DLM program was viewed as helping to resist and reject stigma, improve health literacy among both health workers and clients, and build trust and confidence in mainstream health services. CONCLUSIONS Health promotion programs have the potential to reduce stigma by acting as a 'one stop shop' for BBVs and STIs through one-on-one support, yarning, and promotion of the HBV vaccine, monitoring for chronic HBV, and treatment (where required).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cama
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Mitch Beadman
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Kim Beadman
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Max Hopwood
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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9
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Matthews PC, Ocama P, Wang S, El-Sayed M, Turkova A, Ford D, Torimiro J, Garcia Ferreira AC, Espinosa Miranda A, De La Hoz Restrepo FP, Seremba E, Mbu R, Pan CQ, Razavi H, Dusheiko G, Spearman CW, Hamid S. Enhancing interventions for prevention of mother-to-child- transmission of hepatitis B virus. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100777. [PMID: 37554925 PMCID: PMC10405098 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a cornerstone of efforts to support progress towards elimination of viral hepatitis. Current guidelines recommend maternal screening, antiviral therapy during the third trimester of high-risk pregnancies, universal and timely HBV birth dose vaccination, and post-exposure prophylaxis with hepatitis B immunoglobulin for selected neonates. However, serological and molecular diagnostic testing, treatment and HBV vaccination are not consistently deployed, particularly in many high endemicity settings, and models predict that global targets for reduction in paediatric incidence will not be met by 2030. In this article, we briefly summarise the evidence for current practice and use this as a basis to discuss areas in which prevention of mother-to-child transmission can potentially be enhanced. By reducing health inequities, enhancing pragmatic use of resources, filling data gaps, developing advocacy and education, and seeking consistent investment from multilateral agencies, significant advances can be made to further reduce vertical transmission events, with wide health, societal and economic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippa C. Matthews
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Department of Infection, University College London Hospitals, 235 Euston Rd, London NW1 2BU, UK
| | - Ponsiano Ocama
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Su Wang
- Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, Florham Park, NJ, USA
- Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, PA, USA
| | - Manal El-Sayed
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Anna Turkova
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit, University College London, 90 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LJ, UK
| | - Deborah Ford
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit, University College London, 90 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LJ, UK
| | - Judith Torimiro
- Chantal Biya International Reference Centre for Research on Prevention and Management of HIV/AIDS (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Ana Cristina Garcia Ferreira
- Ministry of Health, Health Surveillance Department, Department of Chronic Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections, SRTVN Quadra 701, Lote D, PO700 Building, CEP: 70719-040, Brasília/DF, Brazil
| | - Angélica Espinosa Miranda
- Ministry of Health, Health Surveillance Department, Department of Chronic Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections, SRTVN Quadra 701, Lote D, PO700 Building, CEP: 70719-040, Brasília/DF, Brazil
| | | | - Emmanuel Seremba
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robinson Mbu
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Calvin Q. Pan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NYU Langone Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NY, USA
| | - Homie Razavi
- Center for Disease Analysis Foundation, 1120 W South Boulder Rd Suite 102, Lafayette, CO 80026, USA
| | - Geoffrey Dusheiko
- Liver Unit, King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - C. Wendy Spearman
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Saeed Hamid
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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10
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George M, Sharma T, Ahwal S, Rastogi A, Bansal A. A national level survey on knowledge, attitude and practices among Indian nurses on viral hepatitis. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2023; 12:247. [PMID: 37727428 PMCID: PMC10506760 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_1646_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite being preventable and treatable, viral hepatitis remains a major public health problem in India. In the line of their duties, nursing professionals are constantly at risk of infection. To combat viral hepatitis, it is essential to ascertain the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices among nursing professionals. MATERIALS AND METHODS A descriptive cross-section study was conducted at a tertiary public hospital, as a nation-wide online survey after ethical clearance and participants' consent. A convenience sampling, from November 2021 to September 2022, yielded a total of 4532 nurses, nursing students and educators. A self-administered 62-item questionnaire on viral hepatitis with four sections: demographic details, knowledge (33-items), attitude (5-items), and practice (24-itmes) was prepared by expert panel and had a content validity and reliability >0.8. The scale was compiled onto the SurveyMonkey app, field tested before administration and widely circulated on email. RESULT The response rate of the survey was 77%. Frequency, percentage, and the odds ratio (at 95% confidence interval) were analyzed on SPSS v22.0. Majority were females (87.1%) aged <30 years (60%) with <5 years' experience (57.8%). Almost equal number worked in public or private sector and was holders of diploma (44.5%) or degree (43.8%). Overall poor knowledge (85.3%), unfavorable attitude (86.2%), and unsafe practices (55.6%) were exhibited by nurses; 42.2% encountered needle stick injury last year and 49.8% had never checked Anti-HBs titer. In the event of needle stick injury, 74.78% cleansed with soap and water; used antiseptics or washes (33.5%), placed finger in mouth (5.10%), forced wound bleed (17.3%), scrub wound (17.54%), or apply bandage (12.58%). Multivariate analysis of factors influencing knowledge of viral hepatitis was educational qualification, designation, and type of health facility. CONCLUSION As nursing professionals are constantly at risk, there is an urgent need to raise awareness about hepatitis, the post-exposure prophylaxis and vaccination status. Every healthcare facility should include training and capacity building for nurses about risk, prevention, transmission, and management of viral hepatitis, as an integral part of orientation and continuing education on-the-job; follow stringent policies; and set-up mechanisms for monitoring and follow up. Further, policymakers and statutory bodies need to ensure the standards of nursing practice and improve the health of nurses and their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mini George
- College of Nursing, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Tarika Sharma
- College of Nursing, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sarita Ahwal
- College of Nursing, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Aayushi Rastogi
- Clinical Epidemiology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Akanksha Bansal
- Project PRAKASH and ECHO, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
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11
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YENDEWA GA, SELLU EJ, KPAKA RA, JAMES PB, YENDEWA SA, CUMMINGS PE, BABAWO LM, MASSAQUOI SP, GHAZAWI M, OCAMA P, LAKOH S, BABAWO LS, SALATA RA. Measuring stigma associated with hepatitis B virus infection in Sierra Leone: Validation of an abridged Berger HIV stigma scale. J Viral Hepat 2023; 30:621-629. [PMID: 37084170 PMCID: PMC10330123 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Stigma associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is common in endemic countries; however; instruments are lacking to accurately measure HBV-related stigma. We therefore aimed to develop and validate a concise instrument for measuring perceived HBV-related stigma in Sierra Leone. We enrolled 220 people living with HBV (PWHB) aged ≥18 years from August to November 2022. The initial Likert-scale instrument entailed 12 items adapted from Berger's HIV Stigma Scale. We included four additional items adapted from the USAID indicators for enacted stigma. The proposed scale's psychometric properties were assessed. After item reduction, the final HBV Stigma Scale consisted of 10 items and had good internal consistency (overall Cronbach's α = 0.74), discriminant, and construct validity. Exploratory factor analysis produced a three-dimensional structure accounting for 59.3% of variance: personalized stigma driven by public attitudes (six items), negative self-image (two items), and disclosure concerns (two items). Overall, 72.8% of respondents reported perceived HBV-related stigma (mean score 29.11 ± 4.14) and a similar proportion (73.6%) reported at least one instance of enacted stigma. In assessing criterion-related validity, perceived HBV-related stigma correlated strongly with enacted stigma (r = 0.556) and inversely with having family/friends with HBV (r = -0.059). The 10-item HBV Stigma Scale demonstrated good internal consistency and validity and is suitable for screening for HBV-related stigma in Sierra Leone. The psychometric properties of the scale can be optimized with item additions/modifications and confirmatory factor analysis. The scale may help in combating stigma as a barrier to achieving HBV global elimination goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A. YENDEWA
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Edmond J. SELLU
- Department of Nursing, School of Community Health Sciences, Njala University, Bo Campus, Sierra Leone
| | - Rashid A. KPAKA
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences and Disaster Management, Eastern Technical University, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Peter B. JAMES
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia
| | | | | | - Lawrence M. BABAWO
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | | | - Ponsiano OCAMA
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sulaiman LAKOH
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
- Connaught Hospital, University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Lawrence S. BABAWO
- Department of Nursing, School of Community Health Sciences, Njala University, Bo Campus, Sierra Leone
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences and Disaster Management, Eastern Technical University, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Robert A. SALATA
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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12
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Freeland C, Kanu F, Mohammed Y, Nwokoro UU, Sandhu H, Ikwe H, Uba B, Asekun A, Akataobi C, Adewole A, Fadahunsi R, Wisdom M, Akudo OL, Ugbenyo G, Simple E, Waziri N, Vasumu JJ, Bahuli AU, Bashir SS, Isa A, Ugwu GO, Obi EI, Binta H, Bassey BO, Shuaib F, Bolu O, Tohme RA. Barriers and facilitators to hepatitis B birth dose vaccination: Perspectives from healthcare providers and pregnant women accessing antenatal care in Nigeria. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001332. [PMID: 37289735 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Nigeria is estimated to have the largest number of children worldwide, living with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, the leading cause of liver cancer. Up to 90% of children infected at birth develop chronic HBV infection. A birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine (HepB-BD) followed by at least two additional vaccine doses is recommended for prevention. This study assessed barriers and facilitators of HepB-BD administration and uptake, using structured interviews with healthcare providers and pregnant women in Adamawa and Enugu States, Nigeria. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Sciences Research (CFIR) guided data collection and analysis. We interviewed 87 key informants (40 healthcare providers and 47 pregnant women) and created a codebook for data analysis. Codes were developed by reviewing the literature and reading a subsample of queries line-by-line. The overarching themes identified as barriers among healthcare providers were: the lack of hepatitis B knowledge, limited availability of HepB-BD to vaccination days only, misconceptions about HepB-BD vaccination, challenges in health facility staffing capacity, costs associated with vaccine transportation, and concerns related to vaccine wastage. Facilitators of timely HepB-BD vaccination included: vaccine availability, storage, and hospital births occurring during immunization days. Overarching themes identified as barriers among pregnant women were lack of hepatitis B knowledge, limited understanding of HepB-BD importance, and limited access to vaccines for births occurring outside of a health facility. Facilitators were high vaccine acceptance and willingness for their infants to receive HepB-BD if recommended by providers. Findings indicate the need for enhanced HepB-BD vaccination training for HCWs, educating pregnant women on HBV and the importance of timely HepB-BD, updating policies to enable HepB-BD administration within 24 hours of birth, expanding HepB-BD availability in public and private hospital maternity wards for all facility births, and outreach activities to reach home births.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Freeland
- Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Florence Kanu
- Global Immunization Division, United States, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Yahaya Mohammed
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Ugochukwu Uzoechina Nwokoro
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Hardeep Sandhu
- Global Immunization Division, United States, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Hadley Ikwe
- Global Immunization Division, United States, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Belinda Uba
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Emergency Routine Immunization Coordination Centre, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Adeyelu Asekun
- Global Immunization Division, United States, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Charles Akataobi
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Stop Transmission of Poliomyelitis, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Adefisoye Adewole
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Stop Transmission of Poliomyelitis, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Rhoda Fadahunsi
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Stop Transmission of Poliomyelitis, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Margeret Wisdom
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Stop Transmission of Poliomyelitis, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Okeke Lilian Akudo
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Stop Transmission of Poliomyelitis, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Gideon Ugbenyo
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Stop Transmission of Poliomyelitis, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Edwin Simple
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Stop Transmission of Poliomyelitis, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Ndadilnasiya Waziri
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Abuja, Nigeria
- National Stop Transmission of Poliomyelitis, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - James Jacob Vasumu
- Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
| | - Abubakar Umar Bahuli
- Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
| | | | - Abdullahi Isa
- Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
| | - George Onyemachi Ugwu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Nsukka, Nsukka, Nigeria
- Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Enugu, Nigeria
| | | | - Haj Binta
- National Emergency Routine Immunization Coordination Centre, Abuja, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria/ University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | | | - Faisal Shuaib
- National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Omotayo Bolu
- Global Immunization Division, United States, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Rania A Tohme
- Global Immunization Division, United States, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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13
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Hsu YC, Huang DQ, Nguyen MH. Global burden of hepatitis B virus: current status, missed opportunities and a call for action. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023:10.1038/s41575-023-00760-9. [PMID: 37024566 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00760-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects about 296 million people worldwide and is the leading aetiology of cirrhosis and liver cancer globally. Major medical complications also include acute flares and extrahepatic manifestations. In addition, people living with HBV infection also experience stigma. HBV-related cirrhosis resulted in an estimated 331,000 deaths in 2019, and it is estimated that the number of deaths from HBV-related liver cancer in 2019 was 192,000, an increase from 156,000 in 2010. Meanwhile, HBV remains severely underdiagnosed and effective measures that can prevent infection and disease progression are underutilized. Birth dose coverage for HBV vaccines remains low, particularly in low-income countries or regions where HBV burden is high. Patients with HBV infection are inadequately evaluated and linked to care and are undertreated worldwide, even in high-income countries or regions. Despite the goal of the World Health Organization to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health problem by 2030, the annual global deaths from HBV are projected to increase by 39% from 2015 to 2030 if the status quo remains. In this Review, we discuss the current status and future projections of the global burden of HBV infection. We also discuss gaps in the current care cascade and propose future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Chun Hsu
- Center for Liver Diseases, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- School of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fu-Jen Catholic University Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan.
- Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, New Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Daniel Q Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mindie H Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University Medical Centre, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University Medical Centre, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
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Yendewa GA, Sellu EJ, Kpaka RA, James PB, Yendewa SA, Cummings PE, Babawo LM, Massaquoi SP, Ghazawi M, Ocama P, Lakoh S, Babawo LS, Salata RA. Measuring Stigma Associated with Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Sierra Leone: Validation of an Abridged Berger HIV Stigma Scale. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.02.17.23286086. [PMID: 36824916 PMCID: PMC9949200 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.17.23286086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
Stigma associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is common in endemic countries; however; instruments are lacking to accurately measure HBV-related stigma. We therefore aimed to develop and validate a concise instrument for measuring perceived HBV-related stigma in Sierra Leone. We enrolled 220 people living with HBV (PWHB) aged ≥ 18 years from August to November 2022. The initial Likert-scale instrument entailed 12 items adapted from Berger's HIV Stigma Scale. We included 4 additional items adapted from the USAID indicators for enacted stigma. The proposed scale's psychometric properties were assessed. After item reduction, the final HBV Stigma Scale consisted of 10 items and had good internal consistency (overall Cronbach's α = 0.74), discriminant and construct validity. Exploratory factor analysis produced a 3-dimensional structure accounting for 59.3% of variance: personalized stigma driven by public attitudes (6 items), negative self-image (2 items), and disclosure concerns (2 items). Overall, 72.8% of respondents reported perceived HBV stigma (mean score 29.11 ± 4.14) and a similar a proportion (73.6%) reported at least one instance of enacted stigma. In assessing criterion-related validity, perceived HBV-related stigma correlated strongly with enacted stigma (r = 0.556) and inversely with having family/friends with HBV (r = -0.059). The 10-item HBV Stigma Scale demonstrated good internal consistency and validity and is suitable for screening for HBV-related stigma in Sierra Leone. The psychometric properties of the scale can be optimized with item additions/modifications and confirmatory factor analysis. The scale may help in combating stigma as a barrier to achieving HBV global elimination goals.
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Ghazzawi M, Yendewa SA, James PB, Massaquoi SP, Babawo LS, Sahr F, Deen GF, Kabba M, Ocama P, Lakoh S, Salata RA, Yendewa GA. Assessment of Knowledge, Stigmatizing Attitudes and Health-Seeking Behaviors Regarding Hepatitis B Virus Infection in a Pharmacy and Community Setting in Sierra Leone: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11020177. [PMID: 36673546 PMCID: PMC9859485 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major global health challenge. Emerging evidence suggests that poor knowledge and stigma are impacting HBV control efforts in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), but their role is not well understood. We conducted a cross-sectional study of adults aged ≥18 years in a community and pharmacy setting in Freetown, Sierra Leone. A structured questionnaire was used to assess knowledge, stigmatizing attitudes and health-seeking behaviors regarding HBV. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of HBV knowledge and related stigma. A total of 306 adult participants were enrolled (50.7% male, 7.5% HBV positive and 11.7% vaccinated). Overall, 52.2% had good HBV knowledge and 49.3% expressed a stigmatizing attitude towards people with HBV. Notwithstanding, 72.2% stated they would receive the HBV vaccine if offered, 80.4% would take anti-HBV medication and 78.8% would be willing to attend clinic regularly. Good HBV knowledge was associated with HBV positive status (aOR 4.41; p = 0.029) and being vaccinated against HBV (aOR 3.30; p = 0.034). HBV-related stigma was associated with secondary or higher level of education (aOR 2.36; p < 0.001), good HBV knowledge (aOR 2.05; p = 0.006) and pharmacy setting (aOR 1.74, p = 0.037). These findings suggest that education and stigma reduction may benefit HBV elimination efforts in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter B. James
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia
| | | | - Lawrence S. Babawo
- Department of Nursing, School of Community Health Sciences, Njala University, Bo Campus, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Foday Sahr
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Gibrilla F. Deen
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Mustapha Kabba
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Ponsiano Ocama
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala P.O. Box 7062, Uganda
| | - Sulaiman Lakoh
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Robert A. Salata
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - George A. Yendewa
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-2168441988
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Adekanle O, Komolafe AO, Ijarotimi O, Olowookere AS, Ndububa DA. Gender disparity and stigma experience of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection: A prospective cross-sectional study from a hospital in Nigeria. J Infect Prev 2022; 23:263-268. [PMID: 36277856 PMCID: PMC9583437 DOI: 10.1177/17571774221127546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgound Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infected persons often suffer stigma. Stigma can come from the society or be self-induced. This study assessed the gender differences and stigma experience of patients with HBV. Methods Prospective cross-sectional design with a qualitative element using a pretested interviewer administered questionnaire and an in-depth oral interview of HBV infected patients. Quantitative data obtained were entered into SPSS version 20 and analyzed using simple descriptive and inferential statistics, while content analysis was used for the qualitative data. Results Total of 242 respondents answered the quantitative questionnaire. There were 142(58.7%) males and 100 (41.3%) females; age range was 18-72 years with mean (SD) of 35.4(10.7) years. Overall stigma rate was 23.1%. Stigma resulted from a positive HBsAg test, and the experience was unaffected by other markers of HBV infection. Stigma was higher in the domain of disease transmission for both single and married respondents and was particularly higher among males than females. Stigma among females affected pre-marital engagements and also caused marital disharmony among married respondents. In-depth oral interview of 23 HBV infected respondents revealed that many exhibited self-stigma, had wrong knowledge of HBV infection modes, complications, and interpretation of HBV internet information which aggravated stigma reactions. Conclusions Stigma of HBV is high and majorly in the domain of disease transmission. It is higher in males than females. Enlightenment campaign targeting singles and married couples and HBV infection modes is advocated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olusegun Adekanle
- 54715Obafemi Awolowo University and Obafemi Awolowo
University Teaching Hospitals, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | | | - Oluwasegun Ijarotimi
- 54715Obafemi Awolowo University and Obafemi Awolowo
University Teaching Hospitals, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Anu Samuel Olowookere
- 54715Obafemi Awolowo University and Obafemi Awolowo
University Teaching Hospitals, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Dennis A Ndububa
- 54715Obafemi Awolowo University and Obafemi Awolowo
University Teaching Hospitals, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
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Lanyo TN, Ani-Amponsah M, Adjei CA. Challenges and ways of coping of parturient women with chronic hepatitis B in Ghana during COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative inquiry. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062557. [PMID: 36283752 PMCID: PMC9606735 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the psychosocial concerns and ways of coping of pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B infection in Ghana. SETTING Participants were selected from public health facilities in the Tema Metropolis. DESIGN Exploratory descriptive qualitative design was employed. PARTICIPANTS Fourteen pregnant women were purposively selected to participate in face-to-face interviews. The data were analysed using the content analysis procedure. RESULTS The participants' psychosocial concerns and coping strategies were diverse. A significant number of the participants were concerned about the impact their hepatitis B seropositivity would have on their relationships, finances, and general well-being. Specifically, they feared that their social network, especially their spouses, would perceive them as having led a promiscuous lifestyle in the past to acquire hepatitis B infection. Also, fear of transmitting the infection to their infants and the effects of the infection on their infants later in life were identified as major concerns by nearly all participants. The participants further reported feelings of distress and diminished self-esteem. These psychosocial afflictions reported were attributed to lack of pre-test counselling during the antenatal care period. However, the participants coped using different strategies, including avoidance/denial, spirituality, and alternative treatment use. CONCLUSION To achieve optimal psychological and social well-being of pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B, it is important that their unique challenges are considered in their care and treatment cascade. Explicitly, protocols for supportive care addressing the specific needs of pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B should be implemented in the study setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Ani-Amponsah
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of Ghana School of Nursing, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles Ampong Adjei
- Department of Public Health Nursing, University of Ghana School of Nursing, Accra, Ghana
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Surrogate Markers for Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA. Semin Liver Dis 2022; 42:327-340. [PMID: 35445388 DOI: 10.1055/a-1830-2741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most common causes of liver disease worldwide. Chronic HBV infection is currently incurable because of the persistence of the viral template for the viral transcripts, covalently closed circular deoxyribonucleic acid (cccDNA). Detecting changes in cccDNA transcriptional activity is key to understanding fundamental virology, determining the efficacy of new therapies, and deciding the optimal clinical management of HBV patients. In this review, we summarize surrogate circulating biomarkers that have been used to infer cccDNA levels and activity in people with chronic hepatitis B. Moreover, we outline the current shortcomings of the current biomarkers and highlight the clinical importance in improving them and expanding their use.
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A randomized controlled trial enhancing viral hepatitis testing in primary care via digital crowdsourced intervention. NPJ Digit Med 2022; 5:95. [PMID: 35853995 PMCID: PMC9296450 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-022-00645-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the availability of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing in primary care, testing rates in China remain low. Social media is an inexpensive means of disseminating information and could facilitate hepatitis testing promotion. We evaluated the capacity of digitally crowdsourced materials to promote HBV/HCV testing uptake via a randomized controlled trial (identifier: ChiCTR1900025771), which enrolled 750 Chinese primary care patients. We randomized patients (1:1) to receive crowdsourced HBV/HCV promotion materials through social media or facility-based care without promotional materials for four weeks. Exposure to all intervention materials was associated with increased odds of HBV (aOR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.09–3.00) and HCV (aOR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.29–2.99) testing compared to facility-based care. There was a significant reduction in hepatitis stigma among intervention group participants (HBV slope: −0.15, p < 0.05; and HCV slope: −0.13, p < 0.05). Digitally crowdsourced promotion messages could enhance hepatitis testing uptake and should be considered in hepatitis reduction strategies. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900025771) on September 9, 2019. Available from: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=42788
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Weng MK, Doshani M, Khan MA, Frey S, Ault K, Moore KL, Hall EW, Morgan RL, Campos-Outcalt D, Wester C, Nelson NP. Universal hepatitis B vaccination in adults aged 19-59 years: Updated recommendations of the advisory committee on immunization practices-United States, 2022. Am J Transplant 2022; 22:1714-1720. [PMID: 35674154 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.16661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark K Weng
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mona Doshani
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mohammed A Khan
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sharon Frey
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kevin Ault
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | | | - Eric W Hall
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Rebecca L Morgan
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Doug Campos-Outcalt
- College of Medicine and Public Health, University of Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Carolyn Wester
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Noele P Nelson
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
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Gavan L, Hartog K, Holland WC, Koppenol-Gonzalez G, Gronholm PC, Feddes AR, Kohrt BA, Jordans MJ, Peters RH. Assessing stigma in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review of scales used with children and adolescents. Soc Sci Med 2022; 307:115121. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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22
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Ahad M, Wallace J, Xiao Y, van Gemert C, Bennett G, Darby J, Desmond P, Hall S, Holmes J, Papaluca T, Glasgow S, Thompson A, Hellard M, Doyle J, Howell J. Hepatitis B and pregnancy: understanding the experiences of care among pregnant women and recent mothers in metropolitan Melbourne. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:817. [PMID: 35461278 PMCID: PMC9034770 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pregnant women are a priority group for hepatitis B testing. Guideline-based care during antenatal and post-partum periods aims to prevent mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus and lower the risk of liver complications in mothers. This qualitative study explored knowledge of hepatitis B and experiences of hepatitis B related care among pregnant women and mothers. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen women with hepatitis B who were attending antenatal or post-partum hepatitis B care. The interviews were thematically analysed to assess knowledge and understanding of hepatitis B. Participants were recruited from specialist clinics in metropolitan Melbourne between August 2019 and May 2020. Results Four major themes were identified from interviews: (1) knowledge and understanding of hepatitis B, (2) treatment pathways, (3) accessing hepatitis B related care, and (4) disclosing status to friends. Most participants displayed an understanding of hepatitis B transmission, including mother to child transmission. The main motivator of post-partum attendance was reassurance gained concerning their child’s health. Sources of hepatitis B information included doctors, online information and family. Participants identified parents and siblings as sources of support and reported an unwillingness to disclose hepatitis B status to friends. Conclusions Women attending antenatal or post-partum care reported having overall positive experiences, particularly regarding reassurance of their child’s health, but displayed misconceptions around horizontal transmission. Knowledge gained from these results can contribute to the development of targeted models of care for pregnant women and mothers with young children to ensure their successful linkage to care. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13112-0.
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Coste M, Badji MA, Diallo A, Mora M, Boyer S, Prah JJ. Applying the health capability profile to empirically study chronic hepatitis B in rural Senegal: a social justice mixed-methods study protocol. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055957. [PMID: 35410929 PMCID: PMC9003616 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the early implementation of hepatitis B vaccination and the ongoing decentralisation of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) care, over 10% of the Senegalese adult population lives with CHB and liver cancer remains a main cause of death. Investigating factors associated with CHB infection, prevention of CHB-related morbidity, and prevention and treatment of mortality secondary to CHB calls for a holistic and multidimensional approach. This paper presents the adaptation of the health capability profile (HCP) to a specific epidemiological issue and empirical setting: it seeks to identify and analyse inter-related abilities and conditions (health capabilities) in relation to the CHB epidemic in the rural area of Niakhar, Senegal. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This ongoing study relies on a sequential social justice mixed-methods design. The HCP is comprehensively adapted to CHB in rural Senegal and guides the design and conduct of the study. Objective and subjective data are collected at the individual level following a mixed-methods explanatory core design. The quantitative module, embedded in the ANRS12356 AmBASS cross-sectional survey (exhaustive sampling), is used to select a purposeful sampling of participants invited for one-on-one qualitative interviews. Additional data are collected at the institutional and community level through health facility surveys and an ethnography (in-depth interviews) of local and national CHB stakeholders. Data analysis adopts a synergistic approach to produce a multilayered analysis of individual HCPs and crosscutting analysis of the 15 health capabilities. The data integration strategy relies on a mixed-methods convergent core design, and will use 0-100 health capability scores as well as flow diagrams to measure and characterise levels of development and interactions among health capabilities, respectively. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by Senegalese and French authorities. Results dissemination through local workshops and scientific publications aim at fuelling effective policy change towards CHB-related health capability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Coste
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, AMSE, Marseille, France
| | | | - Aldiouma Diallo
- Campus International IRD-UCAD de l'IRD, UMR VITROME, IRD-Université Aix Marseille, AP-HM, SSA, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Marion Mora
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Sylvie Boyer
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Jennifer J Prah
- School of Social Policy and Practice & Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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24
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Ainsworth C. Destigmatizing hepatitis B. Nature 2022; 603:S54-S56. [PMID: 35354985 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-022-00816-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Mude WW, Fisher CM, Richmond J, Gautier RL, Wallace J. Social impacts of living with chronic hepatitis B in South Sudanese community in Australia. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2022; 27:529-541. [PMID: 32568555 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2020.1782849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic hepatitis B presents significant issues to public health and clinical practices. The infection requires lifelong clinical management and is a leading risk factor for liver cancer and liver cirrhosis. Limited studies currently exist on the social impacts of living with chronic hepatitis B, especially for people from Sub-Saharan Africa. The current study explored the experiences of South Sudanese people living with chronic hepatitis B in Australia.Methods: A qualitative inquiry using face-to-face interviews with fifteen South Sudanese people with chronic hepatitis B in Australia explored the social impacts of living with chronic hepatitis B. The study purposively sampled participants who self-identified as South Sudanese with hepatitis B and over 18 years of age. Interviews were coded and analysed using thematic analysis.Results: The study identified three themes relating to the experiences of living with chronic hepatitis B, and were grouped into psychological, interpersonal and healthcare system levels. Psychological level experiences related to the uncertainty of living with chronic hepatitis B and liver cancer risk, where participants expressed persistent fear of disease progression and anxiety around death related to the disease. Interpersonal level experiences involved the disclosure of hepatitis B and its social impacts including stigma, social distancing and isolation. Healthcare system level experiences included receiving mixed messages about hepatitis B, challenges with regular testing and difficulty receiving hepatitis B treatment.Conclusion: The findings provide valuable insights into the social impacts of hepatitis B. It underlines the importance of integrated public health interventions at the community level to improve knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B which address stigma in the South Sudanese community in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- William W Mude
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christopher M Fisher
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Roslyn Le Gautier
- Palliative Medicine Research Group, The University of Melbourne & St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne Australia
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Weng MK, Doshani M, Khan MA, Frey S, Ault K, Moore KL, Hall EW, Morgan RL, Campos-Outcalt D, Wester C, Nelson NP. Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination in Adults Aged 19-59 Years: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices - United States, 2022. MMWR. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2022; 71:477-483. [PMID: 35358162 PMCID: PMC8979596 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7113a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Ghazzawi M, James PB, Massaquoi SP, Yendewa SA, Salata RA, Yendewa GA. Factors Associated with HBsAg Seropositivity among Pregnant Women Receiving Antenatal Care at 10 Community Health Centers in Freetown, Sierra Leone: A Cross-Sectional Study. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11020243. [PMID: 35215186 PMCID: PMC8874792 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B (HBV) is a major public health threat in Sierra Leone. Pregnant women are disproportionately impacted, yet little is known about the epidemiology of HBV in this group. We conducted a cross-sectional study of pregnant women aged ≥16 years receiving antenatal care across 10 community health centers in Freetown from July to September 2021 to assess the prevalence and associated factors of HBsAg seropositivity. Logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of HBsAg seropositivity. In total, 394 pregnant women were screened. The mean age was 24.4 ± 4.9 years, 78.2% were married, and 47.2% were in the second trimester. Only 1% had received the HBV vaccine. The prevalence of HBsAg was 7.9%, while HIV was 5.8% and HIV/HBV co-infection was 0.3%. Regarding high-risk practices, 76.6% reported female genital circumcision, 41.9% ear piercing, 29.0% endorsed multiple sexual partners, and 23.6% reported sexually transmitted infections. In the logistic regression analysis, having a husband/partner with HBV (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 6.54; 95% CI: [1.72–24.86]; p = 0.006) and residing in Central Freetown (aOR: 4.00; 95% CI: [1.46–11.00]; p = 0.007) were independently associated with HBsAg seropositivity. Our findings support the scaling up of HBV services to target pregnant women and their partners for screening and vaccination to help reduce mother-to-child transmission rates in Sierra Leone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter B. James
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia;
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Samuel P. Massaquoi
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone; (S.P.M.); (S.A.Y.)
| | - Sahr A. Yendewa
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone; (S.P.M.); (S.A.Y.)
| | - Robert A. Salata
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - George A. Yendewa
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Correspondence:
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Phisalprapa P, Tanwandee T, Neo BL, Singh S. Knowledge, attitude, and behaviors toward liver health and viral hepatitis-related liver diseases in Thailand. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e28308. [PMID: 34941122 PMCID: PMC8702093 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to quantify and evaluate the knowledge and awareness toward liver health and diseases as well as explore the attitudes and knowledge toward screening, diagnosis, and treatment of liver disease among the Thai population.This is a cross-sectional, self-reported and web-based questionnaire study. Awareness, perceptions and attitudes toward liver-related health and diseases as well as screening, diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases were assessed among 500 Thai adults.Respondents were mostly ≥35 years (62.0%) and females (52.0%). While there was an overall awareness regarding viral hepatitis as the main etiology of liver failure/cancer, respondents expressed misperceptions that hint at social stigmatization or discrimination toward infected individuals. A significant proportion lacked knowledge of liver screening tests and relevant diagnostic tests for viral hepatitis-related liver diseases. Screening or treatment costs and perception of being healthy were among reasons for not seeking medical consultation when exposed to risk factors or diagnosed. Treatment practices of hepatitis included prescription medication (59.1%), functional foods (51.8%) and traditional treatment (28.2%). Multivariate analysis identified income, recent health screening status and being diagnosed with liver disease(s) as significant predictors of the knowledge, attitude, and behaviors of the Thai population toward liver diseases.This study highlighted a degree of misperception and lack of in-depth understanding toward hepatitis-related liver diseases including poor attitudes and knowledge toward screening, diagnosis, and treatment of liver diseases. Factors identified suggest an unmet need to encourage proactive health-seeking behaviors to reduce transmission risks of hepatitis-related liver diseases within the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pochamana Phisalprapa
- Division of Ambulatory Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Tawesak Tanwandee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
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Mahdilouy P, Ziaeirad M. Relationship between perceived social stigma and diabetes self-care activities in Iranian participants with type 1 diabetes. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2021; 20:1505-1511. [PMID: 34900802 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-021-00893-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose A large percentage of side effects and problems associated with diabetes including social stigma interfere with health promotion behaviors in people with diabetes, minimize their social interactions, and indeed prevent them from asking for help regarding treatments and follow-up care services. Therefore, the present study was to elucidate the relationship between perceived social stigma (PSS) and diabetes self-care (DSC) activities in Iranian participants with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Methods This correlational study was fulfilled on 135 participants with T1D in the city of Tabriz, Iran, selected through the convenience sampling method. The data were collected via the Demographic and Clinical Data Collection Form, the Type 1 Diabetes Stigma Assessment Scale (DSAS-1), and the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Questionnaire (SDSCAQ). The data were analyzed using the SPSS Statistics software (Version 16) incorporating descriptive and analytical statistics. Results The results revealed that the total score mean of PSS in the study participants was 51.43±12.16, which was at a moderate level. As well, the mean score of the DSC activities was 37.93±11.26. As a whole, no significant relationship was observed between the PSS and the DSC activities. Conclusion According to the study findings, the PSS was not significantly correlated with the DSC activities; however, both variables in most study participants were at moderate levels. Therefore, further studies on the factors associated with the social stigma of diabetes are necessary. Knowing these factors can help treatment team plan to reduce the diabetes stigma and improve people with diabetes' self-care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Mahdilouy
- Community Health Research Center, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, University Blvd, Arqavanieh, Jey Street, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marzieh Ziaeirad
- Community Health Research Center, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, University Blvd, Arqavanieh, Jey Street, Isfahan, Iran
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30
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Cama E, Brener L, Broady T, Hopwood M, Treloar C. Australian health and medical workers' concerns around providing care to people living with hepatitis B. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:e431-e439. [PMID: 33825261 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
There is established literature on health workers' attitudes towards working with people living with stigmatised health conditions and behaviours, such as HIV, hepatitis C and injecting drug use. Less is known about health workers' attitudes and concerns around providing care to people living with hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is concerning as research indicates that negative attitudes may impact on the quality of care provided to these populations, with adverse health outcomes for clients. The aim of this paper is to examine health and medical workers' concerns about providing care to people living with HBV, and the factors that may influence these concerns. Australian health and medical workers (n = 551) completed an online survey measuring their concerns about providing care to people living with HBV, stigmatising attitudes towards this group, perceived comfort of themselves and colleagues in providing care towards clients with HBV, and witnessing their colleagues behaviour in a discriminatory way towards clients with HBV. Multiple regression was used to ascertain factors predictive of health workers' concerns about working with clients with HBV. Results showed that older participants and those who had spent less time working in the health and medical field had greater concerns about caring for people living with HBV. Workers who did not know someone living with HBV, who were less comfortable around clients with HBV, who perceived their colleagues to be less comfortable working with clients with HBV, and who had more negative attitudes towards this group also had greater concerns around providing care to people living with HBV. Efforts should be made to improve health and medical workers' attitudes towards working with people with HBV. This may also improve workers' level of comfort with people with HBV and reduce the reported reticence they have towards working with this client group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cama
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Loren Brener
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Timothy Broady
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Max Hopwood
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Le Gautier R, Wallace J, Richmond JA, Pitts M. The personal and social impact of chronic hepatitis B: A qualitative study of Vietnamese and Chinese participants in Australia. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:1420-1428. [PMID: 33064908 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study explores the lived experiences of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) among Vietnamese and Chinese-born people living in Melbourne, Australia. The aims of this study were to investigate the personal and social implications of CHB, and the extent to which these implications, including experiences of stigma and marginalisation, affect individuals' overall quality of life. This study is based on individual semi-structured interviews with 37 Vietnamese and Chinese people with CHB in Australia (n = 22 and n = 15 respectively). The interviews were conducted between February 2015 and November 2016. Electronically recorded interviews of up to 1.5 hr were conducted, translated where necessary and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded using NVivo, with coding themes guided by the principles of thematic analysis. Fundamental to most participants' accounts was the experience of living in constant fear of stigma and marginalisation, which participants unanimously attributed to prevailing misconceptions about hepatitis B-related transmission routes and disease outcomes. The accompanying experiences of social isolation-whether imposed upon themselves or by others-brought on additional feelings of shame and emotional pain, which had a profound impact on participants' overall quality of life. By exploring participants' lived experiences of hepatitis B, it became clear that concerns about the clinical implications related to hepatitis B as a biomedical infection make up only a small part of their experiences. Of particular significance were personal and social concerns around transmission, disclosure as well as the impact of stigma and marginalisation on participants and their families. Adopting a comprehensive multi-pronged response to tackle the multitude of complexities surrounding this infection among key affected communities will be more effective than just recognising the physical experience of the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roslyn Le Gautier
- Palliative Nexus, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Jack Wallace
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne VIC, Australia
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health & Society, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Richmond
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne VIC, Australia
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health & Society, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Marian Pitts
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health & Society, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
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Talking testing: Impact of a training intervention on midwives’ antenatal HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C screening practice. Women Birth 2021; 34:e520-e525. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Schwartz J, Bocour A, Tang L, Pene F, Johnson N, Lazaroff J, Moore MS, Winters A. Telephone Patient Navigation Increases Follow-Up Hepatitis B Care in the Postpartum Period for Immigrants Living in New York City. J Immigr Minor Health 2021; 23:1179-1186. [PMID: 34313899 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-021-01240-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B is a major public health threat which leads to serious liver disease or cancer and disproportionately impacts immigrants. Pregnant people are routinely tested for hepatitis B to prevent perinatal transmission but may themselves not receive appropriate education and referrals. People contacted as part of the local health department's perinatal hepatitis B prevention program were offered culturally appropriate telephone patient navigation services to test if this would improve adherence with postpartum hepatitis B care. Four-hundred and nine people were enrolled in the intervention. Using laboratory-reported surveillance data as the outcome measure, those receiving the intervention were 1.66 times as likely to see a hepatitis B care provider within 6 months of childbirth compared with those who did not. Culturally appropriate patient navigation can improve adherence with recommended hepatitis B care in the postpartum period. Health departments can use similar interventions to address liver health disparities in immigrant populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie Schwartz
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Communicable Disease, 42-09 28th Street, Long Island City, NY, USA.
| | - Angelica Bocour
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Communicable Disease, 42-09 28th Street, Long Island City, NY, USA
| | - Liz Tang
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Communicable Disease, 42-09 28th Street, Long Island City, NY, USA
| | - Farma Pene
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Communicable Disease, 42-09 28th Street, Long Island City, NY, USA
| | - Nirah Johnson
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Communicable Disease, 42-09 28th Street, Long Island City, NY, USA
| | - Julie Lazaroff
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Immunization, Long Island City, NY, USA
| | - Miranda S Moore
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Communicable Disease, 42-09 28th Street, Long Island City, NY, USA
| | - Ann Winters
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Communicable Disease, 42-09 28th Street, Long Island City, NY, USA
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Harris M, Guy D, Picchio CA, White TM, Rhodes T, Lazarus JV. Conceptualising hepatitis C stigma: A thematic synthesis of qualitative research. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 96:103320. [PMID: 34261587 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma is an important element in the experience of living with chronic viral hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV), impacting healthcare access and uptake as well as health outcomes. Conceptualisations of stigma in research are, however, often assumed and implicit. This study aimed to synthesise and critically engage with the qualitative literature to provide an overarching conceptualisation of stigma as it pertains to viral hepatitis. METHODS We critically reviewed qualitative literature that mobilised concepts or theories of stigma in relation to viral hepatitis. We searched seven electronic databases for peer-reviewed literature from 2000 to 2019. Given a dearth of conceptual literature on HBV stigma, we conducted a thematic analysis of concepts deployed to theorise stigma in relation to HCV. RESULTS We found 13 studies that conceptualised stigma in relation to HCV, yet none for HBV. We synthesise the analytical findings of these studies and explore how HCV is theorised in relation to four themes: 'identity', 'embodiment', 'institutionalisation', and 'structuration'. Taken together, these themes illustrate the way in which HCV stigma manifests as the confluence of normative assumptions of socially unacceptable practices relating to HCV, such as injecting drug use and sexual behaviours; attitudes towards socially excluded populations; and fears of contracting a contagious and chronic illness. As such, operating within political, social, and economic systems, HCV stigma can act to silence the needs of those with HCV through misrecognising the multifaceted identities of individuals with HCV and structural determinants of health. Stigma, which is built and perpetuated by institutional arrangements, as well as in social processes and policies, shapes deservedness to, as well as engagements with, health and social care. CONCLUSION While commonly employed as a framing concept, much research lacks explicit theoretical or critical engagement on how stigma is conceptualised. There is a tendency for qualitative, empirical research to focus on risk factors shaping individual behaviour change, rather than on risk contexts and socio-structural change. Approaches to address stigma in relation to HCV must consider how stigma operates throughout social processes and is embedded in systems of power and normalised in institutional operating systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Harris
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH
| | - Danielle Guy
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Calle del Rossellón 132, ES-08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Camila A Picchio
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Calle del Rossellón 132, ES-08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Trenton M White
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Calle del Rossellón 132, ES-08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tim Rhodes
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Calle del Rossellón 132, ES-08036 Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices toward Hepatitis B Virus Infection among Students of Medicine in Vietnam. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18137081. [PMID: 34281017 PMCID: PMC8296898 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18137081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Background: Building capacity in hepatitis B virus prevention and management for medical students and health professionals is one of the pillars of the national viral hepatitis control strategy. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at eight medical universities from the northern, central and southern regions of the country between May and November 2020 using a systematic random sampling technique. Results: Among 2000 participants, 84.2% reported they had been tested for hepatitis B and 83.9% had received the hepatitis B vaccine. The mean knowledge, attitude, practice score was 40.2 out of 54 (74.4%) with only 19.9% of the study participants obtaining a good score. In multivariate analysis, fifth year students, students from central universities, students who had tested positive for hepatitis B and students who had received hepatitis B vaccine or had encountered patients with chronic hepatitis B had significantly higher knowledge score (p < 0.05). The study showed lack of trust in the hepatitis B vaccine safety and lack of confidence in providing counselling, testing and management of patients with chronic hepatitis B. Conclusion: Findings from our research emphasized an immediate need to improve the medical schools’ training curriculum in Vietnam to enable students’ readiness in hepatitis B prevention and management.
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Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains a global healthcare burden. Although the recent developments in the field have led to a reduction in incidence, the morbidity and mortality including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain a formidable challenge. Advances in understanding the immunopathogenesis of CHB have led to a recent change in clinical categorization. EASL introduced the term hepatitis B 'e' antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic infection, to replace the historical term 'inactive carrier' disease phase, the commonest CHB phase. Although this disease phase is associated with a favorable prognosis, it is not a truly 'inactive' disease phase with no ostensible liver disease, as inferred by the previous anachronistic terminology, and the risk of spontaneous reactivation and the potential risk of disease progression and HCC development are not negligible. Likewise, the APASL also uses the term "Incidentally Detected Asymptomatic Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive Subject (IDAHS)", comprising all HBsAg-positive subjects who are incidentally detected during routine tests, without any previous or present symptoms of liver disease. This entity includes HBV infection with varied stages of liver disease. Antiviral treatment is generally reserved for patients with active inflammation and/or at risk of disease progression and HCC development. HBsAg loss is considered an optimal treatment endpoint, and may also be achievable in HBeAg-negative chronic infection and IDAHS. In light of this, and the emerging novel HBV therapies, lowering the treatment threshold and a 'Treat All' approach should now be considered. In this review, we summarize the literature and guidance on HBeAg-negative chronic infection, and we make a concerted effort to present the reasons why the one-dimensional term 'inactive carrier' should be abandoned.
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Holt SG, Locarnini S, Sasadeusz J. Hepatitis B related dilemmas in the renal unit. Nephrology (Carlton) 2020; 26:287-293. [PMID: 33155307 DOI: 10.1111/nep.13815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Testing for hepatitis B in dialysis patients is routine, but newer and more sensitive detection methods mean that there is sometimes confusion around viral loads and occult infection. There are frequently difficult choices surrounding isolation and treatment. Here we describe the use of HBV serology and DNA testing in decisions around patients with end-stage renal disease. We also suggest isolation decisions based on our current understanding of the virus and its infectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen G Holt
- Department of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) Kidney Care, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Stephen Locarnini
- Research and Molecular Development, Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joe Sasadeusz
- Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) Kidney Care, Abu Dhabi, UAE.,Research and Molecular Development, Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Shen K, Yang NS, Huang W, Fitzpatrick TS, Tang W, Zhao Y, Wang Y, Li L, Tucker JD. A crowdsourced intervention to decrease hepatitis B stigma in men who have sex with men in China: A cohort study. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:135-142. [PMID: 31571341 PMCID: PMC8163661 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Stigma against people with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a barrier to prevention, diagnosis and treatment of HBV in China. Our study examined an innovative intervention to reduce HBV stigma among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. We extracted data from a randomized controlled trial conducted in May 2018, where the intervention consisted of crowdsourced images and videos to promote viral hepatitis testing and reduce HBV stigma. HBV stigma was assessed using a 20-item scale at baseline and four weeks post-enrolment. Participants were divided into three groups based on their exposure to intervention: full exposure, partial exposure and no exposure. Linear regression was used to determine associations between baseline stigma and participant characteristics. Data from 470 MSM were analysed. Mean participant age was 25 years old and 56% had less education than a college bachelor's degree. Full exposure to intervention was associated with significant stigma reduction (adjusted beta = -3.49; 95% CI = -6.11 to -0.87; P = .01), while partial exposure led to stigma reduction that was not statistically significant. The mean stigma score was 50.6 (SD ± 14.7) at baseline, and stigma was most prominent regarding physical contact with HBV carriers. Greater HBV stigma was associated with not having a recent doctor's visit (adjusted beta = 4.35, 95% CI = 0.19 to 8.52; P = .04). In conclusion, crowdsourcing can decrease HBV stigma among MSM in China and may be useful in anti-stigma campaigns for vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Shen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nancy S. Yang
- University of Minnesota Medical School – Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Wenting Huang
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project China, Guangzhou, China,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Thomas S. Fitzpatrick
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project China, Guangzhou, China,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China,Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project China, Guangzhou, China,School of Social Science, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yehua Wang
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project China, Guangzhou, China,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linghua Li
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Guangzhou Eighth People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Joseph D. Tucker
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project China, Guangzhou, China,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China,Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Mugisha J, Mokaya J, Bukenya D, Ssembajja F, Mayambala D, Newton R, Matthews PC, Seeley J. A Study of Knowledge, Experience, and Beliefs About Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection in South Western Uganda. Front Public Health 2019; 7:304. [PMID: 31709217 PMCID: PMC6823875 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: United Nations sustainable development goals aim for the elimination of viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030, leading to efforts to upscale the availability and accessibility of hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination, diagnosis, and treatment globally. However, a variety of societal factors, including beliefs, traditions, and stigma, can be a major obstacle to all of these interventions. We therefore set out to investigate how HBV is understood and described in communities in Uganda, and whether there is evidence of potential stigma. Method: We carried out a qualitative formative study in two sites in South Western Uganda: a village in Kalungu district (site A) and an area on the outskirts of Masaka town (site B). We undertook a rapid assessment to investigate how adults describe HBV infection and their perceptions about the infection. We collected data by conducting a transect walk, observations, community group discussions, and in-depth interviews, sampling a total of 131 individuals. We used inductive content analysis to extract key themes associated with HBV. Results: There is no specific word for HBV infection in local languages, and knowledge about this infection is varied. While some individuals were completely unfamiliar with HBV infection, some had heard of HBV. Radio was a common source of information. There was awareness of HBV as a cause of liver disease, but limited knowledge regarding the cause, mode of transmission, and treatment. Stigma in HBV may be rare in this community due to limited understanding and experience of HBV. Conclusion: There is an ongoing need to improve awareness and understanding of HBV in this community. Careful dissemination of accurate information is required to promote acceptance of interventions for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Mugisha
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jolynne Mokaya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic Bukenya
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Fatuma Ssembajja
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Denis Mayambala
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Robert Newton
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa C Matthews
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Seeley
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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