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Vaishya R, Misra A, Vaish A, Singh SK. Diabetes and tuberculosis syndemic in India: A narrative review of facts, gaps in care and challenges. J Diabetes 2024; 16:e13427. [PMID: 37292055 PMCID: PMC11070841 DOI: 10.1111/1753-0407.13427] [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] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Both diabetes mellitus (DM) and tuberculosis (TB) are prevalent all across in India. TB-DM comorbidity has emerged as a syndemic and needs more attention in India considering gaps in screening, clinical care, and research. This paper is intended to review published literature on TB and DM in India to understand the burden of the dual epidemic and its trajectory and to obtain perspectives on the gaps, constraints, and challenges in care and treatment of this dual epidemic. A literature search was carried out on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using the key words 'Tuberculosis' OR 'TB' AND 'Diabetes' OR 'Diabetes Mellitus' AND 'India', focusing on the research published between the year 2000 to 2022. The prevalence of DM is high in patients with TB. Quantitative data on the epidemiological situation of TB/DM in India such as incidence, prevalence, mortality, and management are lacking. During the last 2 years convergence of TB-DM syndemic with the COVID-19 pandemic has increased cases with uncontrolled DM but also made coordinated control of TB-DM operationally difficult and of low effectiveness. Research regarding TB-DM comorbidity is required in the context of epidemiology and management. Detection and bidirectional screening are aggressively warranted. Management of DM in those with TB-DM comorbidity needs more efforts, including training and supervision of frontline workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raju Vaishya
- Department of Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement SurgeryIndraprastha Apollo HospitalsNew DelhiIndia
| | - Anoop Misra
- Fortis‐C‐DOC Centre of Excellence for DiabetesMetabolic Diseases and EndocrinologyNew DelhiIndia
- National Diabetes, Obesity and Cholesterol Foundation (N‐DOC)New DelhiIndia
- Diabetes Foundation (India) (DFI)New DelhiIndia
| | - Abhishek Vaish
- Department of Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement SurgeryIndraprastha Apollo HospitalsNew DelhiIndia
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Milice DM, Macicame I, L Peñalvo J. The collaborative framework for the management of tuberculosis and type 2 diabetes syndemic in low- and middle-income countries: a rapid review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:738. [PMID: 38454428 PMCID: PMC10921776 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18256-9] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Given the absence of international guidelines on the joint management and control of tuberculosis (TB) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) launched in 2011 a policy framework to address the growing syndemic burden of TB-T2D. This review aimed at mapping the available evidence on the implementation of the Union-WHO Framework, explicitly, or bi-directional TB-T2D health programs as an initiative for co-management in patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). METHODS A rapid review was performed based on a systematic search in PubMed and Web of Science electronic databases for peer-reviewed articles on The Union-WHO Framework and bi-directional interventions of TB and T2D in LMIC. The search was restricted to English language articles and from 01/08/2011 to 20/05/2022. RESULTS A total of 24 articles from 16 LMIC met the inclusion criteria. Four described the implementation of The Union-WHO Framework and 20 on the bi-directional interventions of TB and T2D. Bi-directional activities were found valuable, feasible and effective following the Union-WHO recommendations. Limited knowledge and awareness on TB-T2D comorbidity was identified as one of the barriers to ensure a functional and effective integration of services. CONCLUSIONS This review revealed that it is valuable, feasible and effective to implement bi-directional TB and T2D activities (screening and management) according to the Union-WHO Framework recommendations, especially in countries that face TB-T2D syndemic. Additionally, it was apparent that gaps still exist in research aimed at providing evidence of costs to implement collaborative activities. There is need for TB and T2D services integration that should be done through the well-stablished TB programme. This integration of two vertical programmes, could ensure patient-centeredness, continuum of care and ultimately contribute for health systems strengthening.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - José L Peñalvo
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- National Center for Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Prakoso DA, Istiono W, Mahendradhata Y, Arini M. Acceptability and feasibility of tuberculosis-diabetes mellitus screening implementation in private primary care clinics in Yogyakarta, Indonesia: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1908. [PMID: 37789310 PMCID: PMC10546762 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16840-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between Tuberculosis (TB) and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is intricate and intertwined, posing significant global health challenges. In addition, the increasing prevalence of DM worldwide raises concerns regarding the potential resurgence of tuberculosis. The implementation of tuberculosis prevention strategies is of the utmost importance, especially in countries like Indonesia that encounter a dual burden of TB and DM. The significance of TB screening in private primary care settings for patients with diabetes cannot be overstated. Implementing TB screening protocols in private primary care settings can assist in identifying diabetic patients with tuberculosis. Therefore, this study aims to explore the acceptability and feasibility of tuberculosis-diabetes mellitus screening implementation in private primary care clinics. METHODS We conducted implementation research with an exploratory qualitative design. Fifteen healthcare professionals from five private primary health care clinics in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, participated in five focus groups. The discussions were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed. As part of the feasibility assessment, surveys were conducted in each clinic. We conducted a thematic analysis in accordance with the theoretical framework of acceptability and the feasibility assessment. RESULTS We identified that most private primary care clinics deemed the implementation of TB screening in DM patients acceptable and practicable. We revealed that the majority of diabetes patients enthusiastically accepted TB-DM screening services. In addition, we found that the healthcare professionals at the clinic are aware of the nature of the intervention and demonstrates a positive attitude despite a subtle burden. The stigma associated with COVID-19 has emerged as a new implementation barrier, joining TB stigma, lack of resources, and regulatory issues. We identify concealed and tiered screening as a potential method for enhancing the implementation of TB-DM screening. CONCLUSIONS The implementation of TB screening in DM patients in private primary care clinics had the potential to be acceptable and feasible. To achieve a successful implementation, consideration should be given to supporting factors, hindering factors, and strategies to improve TB screening in DM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denny Anggoro Prakoso
- Doctoral Program of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Wahyudi Istiono
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yodi Mahendradhata
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Merita Arini
- Master of Hospital Administration, Postgraduate Program, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
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Nyirenda JLZ, Bockey A, Wagner D, Lange B. Effect of Tuberculosis (TB) and Diabetes mellitus (DM) integrated healthcare on bidirectional screening and treatment outcomes among TB patients and people living with DM in developing countries: a systematic review. Pathog Glob Health 2023; 117:36-51. [PMID: 35296216 PMCID: PMC9848381 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2022.2046967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
A systematic review (Prospero CRD42017075562) including articles published between 1 January 1990 and 31 October 2021 was performed to synthesize evidence on the effect of integrating tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) healthcare on screening coverage and treatment loss to follow-up as compared to non-integrated care services for TB and DM in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs). Searches were performed in PubMed, Web of Science, WHO Global Index Medicus, and Cochrane Central Library. This review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and we adopted Cochrane data collection form for Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs. Due to heterogeneity and limited data of studies included, meta-analysis was not performed. Of 6902 abstracts, 10 studies from South America, Asia, and Africa were included. One study from Zimbabwe showed 57% increase in DM screening among TB patients in integrated care as compared to non-integrated care; 95% CI: 54.1, 59.8. Seven studies with before-after comparison groups reported increased screening coverage during implementation of integrated healthcare that ranged from 10.1% in Mexico to 99.1% in China. Three studies reported reduction in loss to follow-up among TB patients in integrated care; two in China showed 9.2%, 95% CI: -16.7, -1.7, and -9.5%, 95% CI: -18.4, -0.7 differences, while a study from Mexico showed -5.3% reduction, 95% CI: -9.8, -0.9.With few and heterogenous included studies, the synthesized evidence is weak to establish effect of TB/DM integrated care. Therefore, further robust studies such as randomized clinical trials and well-designed observational studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- John L Z Nyirenda
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Freiburg. Medical Faculty. University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Public Health Department, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Livingstonia, Mzuzu, Malawi
| | - Annabelle Bockey
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Freiburg. Medical Faculty. University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department for Epidemiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Dirk Wagner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Freiburg. Medical Faculty. University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Berit Lange
- Department for Epidemiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
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Rupani MP, Vyas S. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods study on costs incurred by patients with tuberculosis comorbid with diabetes in Bhavnagar, western India. Sci Rep 2023; 13:150. [PMID: 36600031 PMCID: PMC9811877 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27494-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is one of the commonest morbidity among patients with tuberculosis (TB). We conducted this study to estimate the costs incurred by patients with TB comorbid with diabetes and to explore the perspectives of program managers as well as patients on the reasons and solutions for the costs incurred due to TB-diabetes. We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study to estimate costs among 304 patients with TB-diabetes comorbidity registered in the public health system during 2017-2020 in the Bhavnagar region of western India, which was followed by in-depth interviews among program functionaries and patients to explore solutions for reducing the costs. Costs, when exceeded 20% of annual household income, were defined as catastrophic as this cut-off was most significantly related to adverse TB outcomes. Among the 304 patients with TB-diabetes comorbidity, 72% were male and the median (interquartile IQR) monthly family income was Indian rupees (INR) 9000 (8000-11,000) [~ US$ 132 (118-162)]. The median (IQR) total costs due to combined TB-diabetes were INR 1314 (788-3170) [~ US$ 19 (12-47)], while that due to TB were INR 618 (378-1933) [~ US$ 9 (6-28)]. Catastrophic costs due to TB were 4%, which increased to 5% on adding the costs due to diabetes. Health system strengthening, an increase in cash assistance, and other benefits such as a nutritious food kit were suggested for reducing the costs incurred. We conclude that, in addition to a marginal increase in the percentage of catastrophic costs, co-existent diabetes nearly doubled the median total costs incurred among patients with TB. Strengthening the TB-diabetes bi-directional activities, tailoring the cash transfer scheme for comorbid patients, and making the common two-drug combination diabetes tablets available at government drug stores would help TB-diabetes comorbid patients cope with the costs of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihir P. Rupani
- grid.413227.10000 0004 1801 0602Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College Bhavnagar (Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University), Near ST Bus Stand, Jail Road, Bhavnagar, Gujarat 364001 India ,grid.411877.c0000 0001 2152 424XGujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009 India ,grid.415578.a0000 0004 0500 0771Present Address: Clinical Epidemiology, Division of Health Sciences, ICMR - National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), Indian Council of Medical Research, Meghaninagar, near Raksha Shakti University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380016 India
| | - Sheetal Vyas
- grid.411877.c0000 0001 2152 424XGujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009 India ,grid.411494.d0000 0001 2154 7601Department of Community Medicine, AMC-MET Medical College, Maninagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380008 India
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Makuka GJ, Balandya E, Munseri P. Burden of active pulmonary tuberculosis among patients with diabetes in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e065969. [PMID: 36424102 PMCID: PMC9693890 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065969] [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: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to determine the prevalence, associated factors and describe the chest radiographic findings for active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) attending a diabetic clinic in Tanzania. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING A diabetic clinic at Temeke Regional Referral Hospital in Dar es salaam, Tanzania. PARTICIPANTS Patients with diabetes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The prevalence and factors associated with active TB in patients with DM. RESULTS Among 623 patients with DM screened, 11 (1.8%); 95% CI 0.9 to 3.1, had active TB of which 6 (54.5%) were GeneXpert positive and 5 (45.5%) were diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and suggestive chest radiographs. The risk of active TB was lower in patients aged 45-64 years compared with age below 45 years (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 0.39, 95% CI (0.11 to 0.42), p=0.001) and in patients with normal chest examination findings compared with patients with crackles or bronchial breathing sounds (aPR 0.02, 95% CI (0.01 to 0.15), p<0.01). The predominant chest radiographic findings were opacification 100% mainly in the upper and mid-lung zones. CONCLUSION Diabetics should be screened for pulmonary TB, particularly among individuals aged 45 years and below with crackles or bronchial breathing on auscultation of the chest. High index of suspicion could help in the early detection and control of TB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Jamberi Makuka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Emmanuel Balandya
- Department of Physiology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Patricia Munseri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Nyirenda JLZ, Wagner D, Ngwira B, Lange B. Bidirectional screening and treatment outcomes of diabetes mellitus (DM) and Tuberculosis (TB) patients in hospitals with measures to integrate care of DM and TB and those without integration measures in Malawi. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:28. [PMID: 34983434 PMCID: PMC8725264 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-07017-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There are efforts in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) to integrate Tuberculosis (TB) and Diabetes mellitus (DM) healthcare services, as encouraged by WHO and other international health organizations. However, evidence on actual effect of different integration measures on bidirectional screening coverages and or treatment outcomes for both diseases in LMICs is scarce. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS Retrospective chart review analysis was conducted to determine effects of integrated care on bidirectional screening and treatment outcomes for both TB patients and people with DM (PWD) recruited in eight Malawian hospitals. Data of ≥ 15 years old patients registered between 2016 to August 2019 were collected and analysed. RESULTS 557 PWDs (mean age 54) and 987 TB patients (mean age 41) were recruited. 64/557 (11.5%) PWDs and 105/987 (10.6%) of TB patients were from an integrating hospital. 36/64 (56.3%) PWDs were screened for TB in integrated healthcare as compared to 5/493 (1.0%) in non-integrated care; Risk Difference (RD) 55.2%, (95%CI 43.0, 67.4), P < 0.001, while 10/105 (9.5%) TB patients were screened for DM in integrated healthcare as compared to 43/882 (4.9%) in non-integrated care; RD 4.6%, (95%CI - 1.1, 10.4), P = 0.065. Of the PWDs screened, 5/41 (12.2%) were diagnosed with TB, while 5/53 (9.4%) TB patients were diagnosed with DM. On TB treatment outcomes, 71/508 (14.8%) were lost to follow up in non-integrated care and none in integrated care were lost to follow-up; RD - 14.0%, (95%CI: - 17.0,-11.0), p < 0.001. Among PWDs, 40/493 (8.1%) in non-integrated care and 2/64 (3.1%) were lost to follow up in integrated care; RD - 5.0%, (95%CI:-10.0, - 0.0); P = 0.046. After ≥ 2 years of follow up, 62.5% PWDs in integrated and 41.8% PWDs in non-integrated care were retained in care, RD 20.7, (95%CI: 8.1, 33.4), P = 0.001. CONCLUSION We found higher bidirectional screening coverage and less loss to follow-up in one centre that made more efforts to implement integrated measures for TB and DM care than in 7 others that did not make these efforts. Decisions on local programs to integrate TB/DM care should be taken considering currently rather weak evidence and barriers faced in the local context as well as existing guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- John L Z Nyirenda
- University Hospital Freiburg. Medical Faculty. University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany. .,Public Health Department, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Livingstonia, Mzuzu, Malawi.
| | - Dirk Wagner
- University Hospital Freiburg. Medical Faculty. University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bagrey Ngwira
- The Polytechnic College, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Berit Lange
- Helmholtz Centre for Infectious Research, Epidemiology, Braunschweig, Germany
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Salifu RS, Hlongwa M, Hlongwana K. Implementation of the WHO's collaborative framework for the management of tuberculosis and diabetes: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047342. [PMID: 34789489 PMCID: PMC8601079 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To map evidence on the implementation of the WHO's collaborative framework for the management of tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) comorbidity, globally. DESIGN Scoping review. METHODS Guided by Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review framework, this review mapped literature on the global implementation of the framework for the management of TB and DM comorbidity, globally. An extensive literature search for peer-reviewed studies, theses, studies in the press and a list of references from the selected studies was conducted to source-eligible studies. PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Science Direct, the EBSCOhost platform (academic search complete, health source: nursing/academic edition, CINAHL with full text), Scopus and the WHO library were used to source the literature. We performed title screening of articles using keywords in the databases, after which two independent reviewers (RS and PV) screened abstracts and full articles. Studies from August 2011 to May 2021 were included in this review and the screening was guided by the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Findings were analysed using the thematic content analysis approach and results presented in the form of a narrative report. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension was used as a checklist and for explaining the scoping review process. RESULTS This review found evidence of the WHO TB-DM collaborative framework's implementation in 35 countries across the globe. TB-DM comorbidity was identified in patients through bidirectional screening of both patients with TB and patients with DM in rural and urban settings. CONCLUSION Due to the paucity of evidence on mechanisms of collaboration, we recommend further research in other implementing countries to identify techniques used for diagnosis and integration of TB and DM services, in order to ensure that effective and joint management of TB-DM comorbidity in populations is achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Suhuyini Salifu
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Health Sciences, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Health and Development Solutions Network, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Health Sciences, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Khumbulani Hlongwana
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Health Sciences, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Salifu RS, Hlongwana KW. Frontline healthcare workers' experiences in implementing the TB-DM collaborative framework in Northern Ghana. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:861. [PMID: 34425809 PMCID: PMC8381504 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06883-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Over the past decade, global health policy has increased its focus on measures to halt further increase in tuberculosis (TB) incidence and management of diabetes mellitus (DM). However, the vertical management of these two diseases have not achieved much in addressing the adverse effects of the rising tuberculosis-diabetes co-epidemic. This necessitated the World Health Organisation and the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease to develop a framework to manage this dual disease burden. TB-DM co-epidemic is a public health concern in Ghana, adversely threatening the country’s fragile health systems. Since frontline healthcare workers are critical in health policy implementation, this study used Lipsky’s theoretical framework of street-level bureaucracy to explore their experiences in implementing the collaborative framework at the health facility level in Ghana. Methods This qualitative study was conducted between July to September 2019 using an exploratory design. Data was generated using a semi-structured interview guide designed to elicit information on knowledge of TB-DM comorbidity as well as systems for co-management. Twenty-three in-depth interviews were conducted among purposively selected frontline healthcare workers (doctors, nurses, TB task- shifting officers, TB institutional coordinators and hospital managers) from three health facilities in the Northern Region of Ghana. The lead author also conducted observations and document reviews, in order to fully address the study objectives. Thematic analysis was guided by the Lipsky’s theoretical framework of street level bureaucracy. Results The findings revealed three main themes and six sub-themes. Main themes were Prioritisation of TB/HIV co-infection while negating TB-DM comorbidity, Poor working conditions, and Coping mechanisms, whereas sub-themes were Low knowledge and awareness of TB-DM comorbidity, Limited awareness of the collaborative framework, High workload in TB & DM Clinics, Multiple roles, Inadequate training, and Space shortage. Conclusions Frontline healthcare workers had limited knowledge of TB-DM comorbidity and the collaborative framework, which, in turn adversely affected the effectiveness in implementing the framework. The effective implementation of the framework begins with raising awareness about the framework through in service training amongst the frontline healthcare workers. Additionally, an integrated screening tool to detect both TB and DM would help achieve early detection of TB-DM comorbidity. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-021-06883-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Suhuyini Salifu
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. .,Health and Development Solutions Network, Tamale, Ghana.
| | - Khumbulani W Hlongwana
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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van Crevel R, Critchley JA. The Interaction of Diabetes and Tuberculosis: Translating Research to Policy and Practice. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6010008. [PMID: 33435609 PMCID: PMC7838867 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes Mellitus increases the risk of developing Tuberculosis (TB) disease by about three times; it also doubles the risk of death during TB treatment and other poor TB treatment outcomes. Diabetes may increase the risk of latent infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (LTBI), but the magnitude of this effect is less clear. Whilst this syndemic has received considerable attention, most of the published research has focussed on screening for undiagnosed diabetes in TB patients or observational follow-up of TB treatment outcomes by diabetes status. There are thus substantial research and policy gaps, particularly with regard to prevention of TB disease in people with diabetes and management of patients with TB-diabetes, both during TB treatment and after successful completion of TB treatment, when they likely remain at high risk of TB recurrence, mortality from TB and cardiovascular disease. Potential strategies to prevent development of TB disease might include targeted vaccination programmes, screening for LTBI and preventive therapy among diabetes patients or, perhaps ideally, improved diabetes management and prevention. The cost-effectiveness of each of these, and in particular how each strategy might compare with targeted TB prevention among other population groups at higher risk of developing TB disease, is also unknown. Despite research gaps, clinicians urgently need practical management advice and more research evidence on the choice and dose of different anti-diabetes medication and effective medical therapies to reduce cardiovascular risks (statins, anti-hypertensives and aspirin). Substantial health system strengthening and integration may be needed to prevent these at risk patients being lost to care at the end of TB treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinout van Crevel
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LG, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Julia A. Critchley
- Population Health Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London SW17 ORE, UK;
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Dabhi PA, Thangakunam B, Gupta R, James P, Thomas N, Naik D, Christopher DJ. Screening for prevalence of current TB disease and latent TB infection in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending a diabetic clinic in an Indian tertiary care hospital. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233385. [PMID: 32502176 PMCID: PMC7274437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diabetes triples the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). This study was designed to determine the prevalence of past and current TB disease and Latent TB infection (LTBI) in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM) patients. Design This was a prospective descriptive study on all NIDDM patients attending a Diabetic clinic. Detailed history, included details of previous history of TB (Past TB)and symptoms of active TB and a thorough physical exam was also done. When clinical suspicion of TB was present, appropriate investigations were carried out to diagnose ‘Current TB’. Subsequently, 200 consecutive patients who were negative for Past and Current TB were screened for Latent TB infection (LTBI) by tuberculin skin test. Results Of 1000 NIDDM patients enrolled, 43(4.3%) had Past TB. Of remaining 957 patients, 50 were evaluated for New TB on the basis of suggestive symptoms and 10(1%) patients were confirmed to have Current TB. Risk factors for Past or Current TB ‘DM-TB’ in comparison with ‘DM Only’ group were; male sex (72% VS 57%; P = 0.033), manual laborer (28% VS 15%; P = 0.012), smoking (26% VS 14%; P = 0.015), alcohol consumption (23% VS 9%; P<0.001)& being on treatment with Insulin (40% VS 20%; P<0.001). There was a protective effect with being a home maker (17% VS 37%; P = 0.034&overweightstatus (53% VS 71%; P = 0.004). Of the 200 patient without Past or Current TB, who were screened for LTBI, 96(48%) patients were found to have LTBI. Male sex was the only significant risk factor for LTBI (72% VS 59%; P = 0.05). Conclusion Past and Current TB was substantial in patients attending a Diabetic Clinic. Active symptom screening for TB in these clinics could lead to increase in case detection and earlier diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Richa Gupta
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Prince James
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nihal Thomas
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Dukhabandhu Naik
- Department of Endocrinology, Jawaharlal Institute of postgraduate medical education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry, India
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12
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Frauenfeld L, Nann D, Sulyok Z, Feng YS, Sulyok M. Forecasting tuberculosis using diabetes-related google trends data. Pathog Glob Health 2020; 114:236-241. [PMID: 32453658 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2020.1767854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Online activity-based data can be used to aid infectious disease forecasting. Our aim was to exploit the converging nature of the tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes epidemics to forecast TB case numbers. Thus, we extended TB prediction models based on traditional data with diabetes-related Google searches. We obtained data on the weekly case numbers of TB in Germany from June 8th, 2014, to May 5th, 2019. Internet search data were obtained from a Google Trends (GTD) search for 'diabetes' to the corresponding interval. A seasonal autoregressive moving average (SARIMA) model (0,1,1) (1,0,0) [52] was selected to describe the weekly TB case numbers with and without GTD as an external regressor. We cross-validated the SARIMA models to obtain the root mean squared errors (RMSE). We repeated this procedure with autoregressive feed-forward neural network (NNAR) models using 5-fold cross-validation. To simulate a data-poor surveillance setting, we also tested traditional and GTD-extended models against a hold-out dataset using a decreased 52-week-long period with missing values for training. Cross-validation resulted in an RMSE of 20.83 for the traditional model and 18.56 for the GTD-extended model. Cross-validation of the NNAR models showed a mean RMSE of 19.49 for the traditional model and 18.99 for the GTD-extended model. When we tested the models trained on a decreased dataset with missing values, the GTD-extended models achieved significantly better prediction than the traditional models (p < 0.001). The GTD-extended models outperformed the traditional models in all assessed model evaluation parameters. Using online activity-based data regarding diabetes can improve TB forecasting, but further validation is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Frauenfeld
- Institute for Pathology and Neuropathology, Eberhard Karls University, University Hospital of Tübingen , Tübingen 72076, Germany
| | - Dominik Nann
- Institute for Pathology and Neuropathology, Eberhard Karls University, University Hospital of Tübingen , Tübingen 72076, Germany
| | - Zita Sulyok
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Eberhard Karls University, University Hospital of Tübingen , Tübingen 72074, Germany
| | - You-Shan Feng
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Applied Biometry, University Hospital of Tübingen , Tübingen 72076, Germany
| | - Mihály Sulyok
- Institute for Pathology and Neuropathology, Eberhard Karls University, University Hospital of Tübingen , Tübingen 72076, Germany
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13
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Bhargava A, Bhargava M. Tuberculosis deaths are predictable and preventable: Comprehensive assessment and clinical care is the key. J Clin Tuberc Other Mycobact Dis 2020; 19:100155. [PMID: 32211519 PMCID: PMC7082610 DOI: 10.1016/j.jctube.2020.100155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of reducing tuberculosis (TB) mortality in the END TB Strategy can be achieved if TB deaths are considered predictable and preventable. This will require programs to examine and address some key gaps in the understanding of the distribution and determinants of TB mortality and the current model of assessment and care in high burden countries. Most deaths in high-burden countries occur in the first eight weeks of treatment and in those belonging to the age group of 15–49 years, living in poverty, with HIV infection and/or low body mass index (BMI). Deaths result from extensive disease, comorbidities like advanced HIV disease complicated with other infections (bacterial, fungal, bloodstream), and moderate-severe undernutrition. Most early deaths in patients with TB, even with TB-HIV co-infection, are due to TB itself. Comprehensive assessment and clinical care are a prerequisite of patient-centered care. Simple independent predictors of death like unstable vital signs, BMI, mid-upper arm circumference, or inability to stand or walk unaided can be used by programs for risk assessment. Programs need to define criteria for referral for inpatient care, address the paucity of hospital beds and develop and implement guidelines for the clinical management of seriously ill patients with TB, advanced HIV disease and severe undernutrition as co-morbidities. Programs should also consider notification and audit of all TB deaths, similar to audit of maternal deaths, and address the issues in delays in diagnosis, treatment, and quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anurag Bhargava
- Department of Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore, 575018, India.,Department of Medicine, McGill University, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, suite D05-2212, Mail Drop Number: D05-2214, Montreal, H4A 3J1, Canada.,Center for Nutrition Studies, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore. 575018, India
| | - Madhavi Bhargava
- Department of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore. 575018, India.,Center for Nutrition Studies, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore. 575018, India
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