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Matsungo TM, Kamazizwa F, Mavhudzi T, Makota S, Kamunda B, Matsinde C, Chagwena D, Mukudoka K, Chopera P. Influence of care group participation on infant and young child feeding, dietary diversity, WASH behaviours and nutrition outcomes in rural Zimbabwe. BMJ Nutr Prev Health 2023; 6:164-172. [PMID: 38618554 PMCID: PMC11009524 DOI: 10.1136/bmjnph-2023-000627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The care group approach (CGA) is a community-based nutrition behaviour change strategy centred on 'peer-to-peer learning' through women support groups. Objective To assess the impact of the CGA on the adoption of appropriate infant and young child feeding (IYCF), dietary diversity and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) practices, and associated nutrition-related outcomes. Methods A retrospective cohort study used a mixed-method approach in selected rural districts in Zimbabwe in June 2022. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on IYCF, diet quality, WASH and child morbidity. Binary logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between exposure and outcome. Significance was at p<0.05. Results A total of 127 exposed and 234 controls were enrolled. There was no significant difference between exposed and controls on the prevalence of; diarrhoea (p=0.659), cough (p=0.191) and fever (p=0.916). No significant difference was observed in the proportion ever breastfed (p=0.609), Children with Adequate Dietary Diversity Score (p=0.606) across the two groups. However, the proportion of families with adequate Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) (p=0.005) and Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) (p=0.009) were significantly higher in exposed than controls. Knowledge on all promoted behaviours was significantly higher in the exposed than in controls with the exception of exclusive breast feeding. While the practices were significantly higher in exposed compared with controls for: 'Appropriate complementary feeding for children aged 6-24 months' (p=0.001), 'good nutrition for women of reproductive age' (p=0.001), 'production and consumption of diverse nutritious food' (p=0.001) and 'production and consumption of biofortified crops' (p=0.001). Conclusions The results showed that CGA potential to increase knowledge and achieve nutrition and health-related behaviour change in low-income settings if integrated into existing community programmes. Interestingly, HDDS and MDD-W were significantly higher in exposed than controls. However, more research is required to obtain conclusive results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Faith Kamazizwa
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Prosper Chopera
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Shamsuddin S, Davis K, Moorhouse L, Mandizvidza P, Maswera R, Dadirai T, Nyamukapa C, Gregson S, Chigogora S. Relationship between psychological distress, health behaviours and future reports of hypertension among adults in East Zimbabwe: a cohort study. Open Heart 2023; 10:e002346. [PMID: 37385733 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2023-002346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Extensive cross-sectional evidence has demonstrated an association between psychological distress (PD) and hypertension. However, evidence on the temporal relationship is limited, especially in low-income and middle-income countries. The role of health risk behaviours including smoking and alcohol consumption in this relationship is also largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between PD and later development of hypertension, and how this association may have been influenced by health risk behaviours, among adults in east Zimbabwe. METHODS The analysis included 742 adults (aged 15-54 years) recruited by the Manicaland general population cohort study, who did not have hypertension at baseline in 2012-2013, and who were followed until 2018-2019. In 2012-2013, PD was measured using the Shona Symptom Questionnaire, a screening tool validated for use in Shona-speaking countries including Zimbabwe (cut-off point: 7). Smoking, alcohol consumption and use of drugs (health risk behaviours) were also self-reported. In 2018-2019, participants reported if they had diagnosed with hypertension by a doctor or nurse. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between PD and hypertension. RESULTS In 2012, 10.4% of the participants had PD. The odds of new reports of hypertension were 2.04 times greater (95% CI 1.16 to 3.59) among those with PD at baseline, after adjusting for sociodemographic and health risk behaviour variables. Female gender (adjusted odds ratio, AOR 6.89, 95% CI 2.71 to 17.53), older age (AOR 2.67, 95% CI 1.63 to 4.42), and greater wealth (AOR 2.10, 95% CI 1.04 to 4.24 more wealthy, 2.88, 95% CI 1.24 to 6.67 most wealthy) were significant risk factors for hypertension. The AOR for the relationship between PD and hypertension did not differ substantially between models with and without health risk behaviours. CONCLUSION PD was associated with an increased risk of later reports of hypertension in the Manicaland cohort. Integrating mental health and hypertension services within primary healthcare may reduce the dual burden of these non-communicable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shehla Shamsuddin
- Department of Health and Social Care, UK Government, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Katherine Davis
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Louisa Moorhouse
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Phyllis Mandizvidza
- Manicaland Centre for Public Health Research, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rufurwokuda Maswera
- Manicaland Centre for Public Health Research, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tawanda Dadirai
- Manicaland Centre for Public Health Research, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Constance Nyamukapa
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Manicaland Centre for Public Health Research, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Simon Gregson
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Manicaland Centre for Public Health Research, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sungano Chigogora
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Davis K, Moorhouse L, Maswera R, Mandizvidza P, Dadirai T, Museka T, Nyamukapa C, Smit M, Gregson S. Associations between HIV status and self-reported hypertension in a high HIV prevalence sub-Saharan African population: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067327. [PMID: 36635037 PMCID: PMC9843216 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined whether HIV status and antiretroviral therapy (ART) exposure were associated with self-reported hypertension in Zimbabwe. DESIGN Study data were taken from a cross-sectional, general population survey, which included HIV testing (July 2018-December 2019). SETTING The data were collected in Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe. PARTICIPANTS 9780 people aged 15 years and above were included. OUTCOME MEASURE Self-reported hypertension was the outcome measure. This was defined as reporting a previous diagnosis of hypertension by a doctor or nurse. After weighting of survey responses by age and sex using household census data, χ2 tests and logistic regression were used to explore whether HIV status and ART exposure were associated with self-reported hypertension. RESULTS The weighted prevalence of self-reported hypertension was 13.6% (95% CI 12.9% to 14.2%) and the weighted prevalence of HIV was 11.1% (10.4% to 11.7%). In univariable analyses, there was no evidence of a difference in the weighted prevalence of self-reported hypertension between people living with HIV (PLHIV) and HIV-negative people (14.1%, 11.9% to 16.3% vs 13.3%, 12.6% to 14.0%; p=0.503) or between ART-exposed and ART-naive PLHIV (14.8%, 12.0% to 17.7% vs 12.8%, 9.1% to 16.4%,p=0.388). Adjusting for socio-demographic variables in logistic regression did not alter this finding (ORs:HIV status:0.88, 0.70 to 1.10, p=0.261; ART exposure:0.83, 0.53 to 1.30, p=0.411). CONCLUSIONS Approximately one in seven PLHIV self-reported having hypertension, highlighting an important burden of disease. However, no associations were found between HIV status or ART exposure and self-reported hypertension, suggesting that it will be valuable to focus on managing other risk factors for hypertension in this population. These findings should be fully accounted for as Zimbabwe reorients its health system towards non-communicable disease control and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Davis
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Louisa Moorhouse
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Tawanda Dadirai
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tafadzwa Museka
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Constance Nyamukapa
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Mikaela Smit
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Gregson
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Muyambo S, Ndadza A, Soko ND, Kruger B, Kadzirange G, Chimusa E, Masimirembwa CM, Ntsekhe M, Nhachi CF, Dandara C. Warfarin Pharmacogenomics for Precision Medicine in Real-Life Clinical Practice in Southern Africa: Harnessing 73 Variants in 29 Pharmacogenes. OMICS 2022; 26:35-50. [PMID: 34958284 PMCID: PMC8792494 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2021.0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacogenomics is universally relevant for worldwide modern therapeutics and yet needs further development in resource-limited countries. While there is an abundance of genetic association studies in controlled medical settings, there is a paucity of studies with a naturalistic design in real-life clinical practice in patients with comorbidities and under multiple drug treatment regimens. African patients are often burdened with communicable and noncommunicable comorbidities, yet the application of pharmacogenomics in African clinical settings remains limited. Using warfarin as a model, this study aims at minimizing gaps in precision/personalized medicine research in African clinical practice. We present, therefore, pharmacogenomic profiles of a cohort of 503 black Africans (n = 252) and Mixed Ancestry (n = 251) patients from Southern Africa, on warfarin and co-prescribed drugs in a naturalized noncontrolled environment. Seventy-three (n = 73) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 29 pharmacogenes were characterized using a combination of allelic discrimination, Sanger sequencing, restriction fragment length polymorphism, and Sequenom Mass Array. The common comorbidities were hypertension (43-46%), heart failure (39-45%), diabetes mellitus (18%), arrhythmia (25%), and HIV infection (15%). Accordingly, the most common co-prescribed drugs were antihypertensives, antiarrhythmic drugs, antidiabetics, and antiretroviral therapy. We observed marked variation in major pharmacogenes both at interethnic levels and within African subpopulations. The Mixed Ancestry group presented a profile of genetic variants reflecting their European, Asian, and African admixture. Precision medicine requires that African populations begin to capture their own pharmacogenetic SNPs as they cannot always infer with absolute certainty from Asian and European populations. In the current historical moment of the COVID-19 pandemic, we also underscore that the spectrum of drugs interacting with warfarin will likely increase, given the systemic and cardiovascular effects of COVID-19, and the anticipated influx of COVID-19 medicines in the near future. This observational clinical pharmacogenomics study of warfarin, together with past precision medicine research, collectively, lends strong support for incorporation of pharmacogenetic profiling in clinical settings in African patients for effective and safe administration of therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarudzai Muyambo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura, Zimbabwe
| | - Arinao Ndadza
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Metabolism Research Group, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IIDMM), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nyarai D. Soko
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Metabolism Research Group, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IIDMM), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bianca Kruger
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Metabolism Research Group, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IIDMM), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gerard Kadzirange
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Emile Chimusa
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Metabolism Research Group, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IIDMM), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Collen M. Masimirembwa
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK), African Institute of Biomedical Sciences and Technology (AiBST), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Mpiko Ntsekhe
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Charles F.B. Nhachi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Collet Dandara
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Metabolism Research Group, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IIDMM), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Kavenga F, Rickman HM, Chingono R, Taruvinga T, Marembo T, Manasa J, Marambire E, McHugh G, Gregson CL, Bandason T, Redzo N, Maunganidze A, Magure T, Ndhlovu C, Mujuru H, Rusakaniko S, Manangazira P, Ferrand RA, Kranzer K. Comprehensive occupational health services for healthcare workers in Zimbabwe during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260261. [PMID: 34813627 PMCID: PMC8610265 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. In low- and middle- income countries, they may be particularly impacted by underfunded health systems, lack of personal protective equipment, challenging working conditions and barriers in accessing personal healthcare. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, occupational health screening was implemented at the largest public sector medical centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, during the "first wave" of the country's COVID-19 epidemic. Clients were voluntarily screened for symptoms of COVID-19, and if present, offered a SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection assay. In addition, measurement of height, weight, blood pressure and HbA1c, HIV and TB testing, and mental health screening using the Shona Symptom Questionnaire (SSQ-14) were offered. An interviewer-administered questionnaire ascertained client knowledge and experiences related to COVID-19. RESULTS Between 27th July and 30th October 2020, 951 healthcare workers accessed the service; 210 (22%) were tested for SARS-CoV-2, of whom 12 (5.7%) tested positive. Clients reported high levels of concern about COVID-19 which declined with time, and faced barriers including lack of resources for infection prevention and control. There was a high prevalence of largely undiagnosed non-communicable disease: 61% were overweight or obese, 34% had a blood pressure of 140/90mmHg or above, 10% had an HbA1c diagnostic of diabetes, and 7% had an SSQ-14 score consistent with a common mental disorder. Overall 8% were HIV-positive, with 97% previously diagnosed and on treatment. CONCLUSIONS Cases of SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare workers mirrored the national epidemic curve. Implementation of comprehensive occupational health services during a pandemic was feasible, and uptake was high. Other comorbidities were highly prevalent, which may be risk factors for severe COVID-19 but are also important independent causes of morbidity and mortality. Healthcare workers are critical to combatting COVID-19; it is essential to support their physical and psychological wellbeing during the pandemic and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fungai Kavenga
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hannah M. Rickman
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rudo Chingono
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tinotenda Taruvinga
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Takudzwa Marembo
- African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technologies Laboratory, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Justen Manasa
- African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technologies Laboratory, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Edson Marambire
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Grace McHugh
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Celia L. Gregson
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nicol Redzo
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Aspect Maunganidze
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Magure
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Health Science, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Chiratidzo Ndhlovu
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hilda Mujuru
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Simbarashe Rusakaniko
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Portia Manangazira
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rashida A. Ferrand
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Tropical Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Cheza A, Tlou B. A qualitative exploratory study of selected physicians' perceptions of the management of non-communicable diseases at a referral hospital in Zimbabwe. Global Health 2021; 17:82. [PMID: 34281565 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-021-00730-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have recently become a global public health burden and a leading cause of premature death, mainly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The aim of the study was to explore physicians' perceptions on the availability and quality of clinical care for the management of NCDs. METHODS This was a qualitative exploratory study meant to obtain expert perceptions on clinical care delivery for NCDs in one Zimbabwean central hospital setting. Data was collected from participants who consented and was analyzed using Stata version 13. A four-point Likert scale was used to categorize different levels of perceived satisfaction. FINDINGS Twenty-three doctors participated in the study: four female doctors and nineteen males. Nineteen of the doctors were general practitioners, whilst four were specialists. The findings indicated that both categories perceived some shortfalls in clinical care for NCDs. Moreover, the perceptions of general practitioners and specialists were not significantly different. Participants perceived cancer care to be lagging far behind the other three NCDs under study. Care of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetes showed mixed perceptions amongst participants, with positive perceptions almost equaling negative perceptions. Furthermore, hypertension was perceived to be clinically cared for better than the other NCDs under consideration. Reasons for the gaps in NCD clinical care were attributed by 33% of the participants to financial challenges; a further 27% to patient behavioral challenges; and 21% to communication challenges. CONCLUSIONS The article concludes that care delivery for the selected NCDs under study at CCH need to be improved. Furthermore, it is crucial to diagnose NCDs before patients show clinical symptoms. This helps disease prognosis to yield better care results. The evaluation of doctors' perceptions indicates the need to improve NCD care at the institution in order to control NCD co-morbidities that may increase mortality.
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Shamu T, Chimbetete C, Egger M, Mudzviti T. Treatment outcomes in HIV infected patients older than 50 years attending an HIV clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe: A cohort study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253000. [PMID: 34106989 PMCID: PMC8189507 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a growing number of older people living with HIV (OPLHIV). While a significant proportion of this population are adults growing into old age with HIV, there are also new infections among OPLHIV. There is a lack of data describing the outcomes of OPLHIV who commenced antiretroviral therapy (ART) after the age of 50 years in sub-Saharan Africa. We conducted a cohort study of patients who enrolled in care at Newlands Clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe, at ages ≥50 years between February 2004 and March 2020. We examined demographic characteristics, attrition, viral suppression, immunological and clinical outcomes. Specifically, we described prevalent and incident HIV-related communicable and non-communicable comorbidities. We calculated frequencies, medians, interquartile ranges (IQR), and proportions; and used Cox proportional hazards models to identify risk factors associated with death. We included 420 (57% female) who commenced ART and were followed up for a median of 5.6 years (IQR 2.4–9.9). Most of the men were married (n = 152/179, 85%) whereas women were mostly widowed (n = 125/241, 51.9%). Forty per cent (n = 167) had WHO stage 3 or 4 conditions at ART baseline. Hypertension prevalence was 15% (n = 61) at baseline, and a further 27% (n = 112) had incident hypertension during follow-up. During follow-up, 300 (71%) were retained in care, 88 (21%) died, 17 (4%) were lost to follow-up, and 15 (4%) were transferred out. Of those in care, 283 (94%) had viral loads <50 copies/ml, and 10 had viral loads >1000 copies/ml. Seven patients (1.7%) were switched to second line ART during follow-up and none were switched to third-line. Higher baseline CD4 T-cell counts were protective against mortality (p = 0.001) while male sex (aHR: 2.29, 95%CI: 1.21–4.33), being unmarried (aHR: 2.06, 95%CI: 1.13–3.78), and being unemployed (aHR: 2.01, 95%CI: 1.2–3.37) were independent independent risk factors of mortality. There was high retention in care and virologic suppression in this cohort of OPLHIV. Hypertension was a common comorbidity. Being unmarried or unemployed were significant predictors of mortality highlighting the importance of sociologic factors among OPLHIV, while better immune competence at ART commencement was protective against mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tinei Shamu
- Newlands Clinic, Newlands, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Matthias Egger
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Tinashe Mudzviti
- Newlands Clinic, Newlands, Harare, Zimbabwe
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Muzvondiwa B, Batterham R. Building health system responsiveness to noncommunicable diseases for Gweru District adults, Zimbabwe: a case study. JHR 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/jhr-07-2020-0248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose
Gweru District, Zimbabwe faces a major challenge of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Globally, health systems have not responded successfully to problems in prevention and management of NCDs. Despite numerous initiatives, reorienting health services has been slow in many countries. Gweru District has similar challenges. The purpose of this paper is to explore what the health systems in Zimbabwe have done, and are doing to respond to increasing numbers of NCD cases in adults in the nation, especially in the district of Gweru
Design/methodology/approach
The study employed a descriptive narrative review of the academic and grey literature, supplemented by semi-structured key informant interviews with 14 health care staff and 30 adults living with a disease or caring for an adult with a disease in Gweru District.
Findings
Respondents identified many limitations to the response in Gweru. Respondents said that screening and diagnosis cease to be helpful when it is difficult securing medications. Nearly all community respondents reported not understanding why they are not freed of the diseases, showing poor understanding of NCDs. The escalating costs and scarcity of medications have led people to lose trust in services. Government and NGO activities include diagnosis and screening, provision of health education and some medication. Health personnel mentioned gaps in transport, medication shortages, poor equipment and poor community engagement. Suggestions include: training of nurses for a greater role in screening and management of NCDs, greater resourcing, outreach activities/satellite clinics and better integration of diverse NCD policies.
Research limitations/implications
Participant responses were greatly influenced by the current political and economic situation in Zimbabwe, so responses may reflect short-term crises rather than long-term trends.
Originality/value
This research offers an understanding of NCD strategies and their limitations from the bottom-up, lived experience perspective of local health care workers and community members.
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Sorato MM, Davari M, Kebriaeezadeh A, Sarrafzadegan N, Shibru T, Fatemi B. Reasons for poor blood pressure control in Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa: looking into 4P's (primary care, professional, patient, and public health policy) for improving blood pressure control: a scoping review. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2021; 21:123. [PMID: 33663387 PMCID: PMC7971125 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-021-01934-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Hypertension control in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is the worst (less than one out of ten) when compared to the rest of the world. Therefore, this scoping review was conducted to identify and describe the possible reasons for poor blood pressure (BP) control based on 4Ps' (patient, professional, primary healthcare system, and public health policy) factors. METHODS PRISMA extension for scoping review protocol was used. We systematically searched articles written in the English language from January 2000 to May 2020 from the following databases: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google scholar. RESULTS Sixty-eight articles were included in this scoping review. The mean prevalence of hypertension, BP control, and patient adherence to prescribed medicines were 20.95%, 11.5%, and 60%, respectively. Only Kenya, Malawi, and Zambia out of ten countries started annual screening of the high-risk population for hypertension. Reasons for nonadherence to prescribed medicines were lack of awareness, lack of access to medicines and health services, professional inertia to intensify drugs, lack of knowledge on evidence-based guidelines, insufficient government commitment, and specific health behaviors related laws. Lack of screening for high-risk patients, non-treatment adherence, weak political commitment, poverty, maternal and child malnutrition were reasons for the worst BP control. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the rate of BP treatment, control, and medication adherence was low in Eastern SSA. Screening for high-risk populations was inadequate. Therefore, it is crucial to improve government commitment, patient awareness, and access to medicines, design country-specific annual screening programs, and empower clinicians to follow individualized treatment and conduct medication adherence research using more robust tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mende Mensa Sorato
- Department of Pharmacy, Arba Minch University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, P.O. Box 21, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Majid Davari
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharmaceutical Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Kebriaeezadeh
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharmaceutical Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nizal Sarrafzadegan
- Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Tamiru Shibru
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Behzad Fatemi
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharmaceutical Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
Many Zimbabwean immigrants have settled in the US in the past 20 years. These immigrants originate from a country highly burdened with HIV and other non-communicable diseases. The health needs of these immigrants are not known. To determine the prevalence of health conditions, and healthcare utilization of Zimbabwean immigrants. A cross-sectional study of 98 Zimbabwean immigrants recruited at religious festivals, completed questionnaires and had blood pressure and weight measurements taken. Three quarters (74.4%) were overweight/obese, 34.7% had hypertension, 79.6% were health insured, 87% had regular PCPs. In the year prior 78.7% had seen a provider, and 25% had utilized the ER for care. Despite regular visits to providers participants, Zimbabwean immigrants utilized the ER more frequently than other populations and had high prevalence of preventable cardiovascular disease risk factors. Providers need to partner with this population to come up culturally appropriate prevention and management interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara M Gona
- MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, USA
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Tozivepi SN, Takawira S, Chikaka E, Mundagowa P, Chadambuka EM, Mukora-Mutseyekwa F. The Nexus Between Adherence to Recommended Lifestyle Behaviors and Blood Pressure Control in Hypertensive Patients at Mutare Provincial Hospital, Zimbabwe: A Cross-Sectional Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2021; 15:1027-1037. [PMID: 34040356 PMCID: PMC8140922 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s306885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the association between the achievement of blood pressure (BP) control and adherence to recommended lifestyle behaviors among hypertensive patients seen at Mutare Provincial Hospital, Zimbabwe. PATIENTS AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted using BP readings from three consecutive months. A structured interviewer-administered and pretested questionnaire with components derived from the World Health Organization Stepwise Survey was employed to extract information from 350 purposively selected participants. Measurement of BP was based on the Eighth Joint National Committee Guidelines. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were computed using the SPSS package. RESULTS The mean age of the 350 participants was 67±11.38 years. Males made up 35% of the participants and BP control was achieved in 41.4% of the patients. Only 5.1% of the participants reported adherence to all the recommended lifestyle behaviors. Low adherence rates were reported for diet, medication, and physical activity. Bivariate analysis showed that participants who adhered to antihypertensive treatment and alcohol recommendations had reduced odds of having uncontrolled hypertension, while consuming deep-fat fried foods ≥3 times a week was associated with higher odds of uncontrolled BP (p<0.1). Logistic regression analysis revealed that participants who ate traditional whole-grain "sadza" or porridge were more likely to have controlled BP [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.6; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0-2.5] while those who did not add salt at the table had reduced odds of having uncontrolled BP by 40% (AOR: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.4-0.9). CONCLUSION Overall, adherence to the recommended lifestyle behaviors which are known to be effective in controlling BP in Mutare was poor. Health workers should include comprehensive health education messages on the importance of compliance with dietary, medication, and physical exercise recommendations when counseling patients. The intervention crafting process should focus on identifying enablers of the recommended lifestyle behaviors in the community and the health delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha N Tozivepi
- Clinical Research Centre, Africa University, Mutare, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Simon Takawira
- Department of Health Sciences, Africa University, Mutare, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Elliot Chikaka
- Department of Health Sciences, Africa University, Mutare, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Paddington Mundagowa
- Clinical Research Centre, Africa University, Mutare, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe
- Correspondence: Paddington Mundagowa Africa University Clinical Research Center, 132 Herbert Chitepo Street, Mutare, ZimbabweTel +263 773 878 116 Email
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12
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Frieden M, Zamba B, Mukumbi N, Mafaune PT, Makumbe B, Irungu E, Moneti V, Isaakidis P, Garone D, Prasai M. Setting up a nurse-led model of care for management of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in a high HIV prevalence context in rural Zimbabwe: a descriptive study. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:486. [PMID: 32487095 PMCID: PMC7268639 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05351-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the light of the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) on health systems in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, context-adapted, cost-effective service delivery models are now required as a matter of urgency. We describe the experience of setting up and organising a nurse-led Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and Hypertension (HTN) model of care in rural Zimbabwe, a low-income country with unique socio-economic challenges and a dual disease burden of HIV and NCDs. Methods Mirroring the HIV experience, we designed a conceptual framework with 9 key enablers: decentralization of services, integration of care, simplification of management guidelines, mentoring and task-sharing, provision of affordable medicines, quality assured laboratory support, patient empowerment, a dedicated monitoring and evaluation system, and a robust referral system. We selected 9 primary health care clinics (PHC) and two hospitals in Chipinge district and integrated DM and HTN either into the general out-patient department, pre-existing HIV clinics, or an integrated chronic care clinic (ICCC). We provided structured intensive mentoring for staff, using simplified protocols, and disease-specific education for patients. Free medication with differentiated periodic refills and regular monitoring with point of care (POC) glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were provided. Results Nurses in 7 PHC facilities and one hospital developed sufficient knowledge and skills to diagnose, initiate treatment and monitor DM and HTN patients, and 3094 patients were registered in the programme (188 with DM only, 2473 with HTN only, 433 with both DM and HTN). Major lessons learned from our experience include: the value of POC devices in the management of diabetes; the pressure on services of the added caseload, exacerbated by the availability of free medications in supported health facilities; and the importance of leadership in the successful implementation of care in health facilities. Conclusion Our experience demonstrates a model for nurse-led decentralized integrated DM and HTN care in a high HIV prevalence rural, low-income context. Developing a context-adapted efficient model of care is a dynamic process. We present our lessons learned with the intention of sharing experience which may be of value to other public health programme managers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marthe Frieden
- Médecins Sans Frontières, 7 Bougainvillea close, Palmerstone, Mutare, Zimbabwe.
| | | | - Nisbert Mukumbi
- Médecins Sans Frontières, 7 Bougainvillea close, Palmerstone, Mutare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Brian Makumbe
- Ministry of Health and Child Care, Manicaland, Zimbabwe
| | - Elizabeth Irungu
- Médecins Sans Frontières, 7 Bougainvillea close, Palmerstone, Mutare, Zimbabwe
| | - Virginia Moneti
- Médecins Sans Frontières, 7 Bougainvillea close, Palmerstone, Mutare, Zimbabwe
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13
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Gonde LL, Chimbari MJ. Community awareness of diet needs associated with hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Hatcliffe, Zimbabwe. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1686. [PMID: 31842891 PMCID: PMC6916094 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-8030-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diet is an important modifiable risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension (HTN) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A NCD is a disease that cannot be transmitted from person to person. Dietary risk factors account for 5.8% of all-cause mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). There has been an increase in the consumption of 'westernized 'diets in SSA. The westernized diets consumed in low-income countries are usually high in salt content, fatty, processed and fast foods; and hence accelerate the development of HTN and T2DM. Previous studies carried out in Zimbabwe showed low levels of knowledge and awareness of HTN and T2DM; and the dietary needs for patients with those conditions. The aim of this study was to explore the dietary habits and awareness of HTN and T2DM of both males and females in a high-density area (HDA) of Zimbabwe. METHODS We conducted household-based cross-sectional study in a high density area of Hatcliffe, which has a population of close to 50,000 residents. Face to face interviews were conducted using hand-held mobile devices loaded with KoBo Toolbox. We selected two consenting adults, a male and female, from every fourth household in selected areas of Hatcliffe. RESULTS In this study all the 492 participants that were interviewed responded. Eighty eight point 6% (88.6%) of the participants in the study did not know if they were hypertensive or not. In addition, 91.7% of the participants had never voluntarily checked for hypertension. Similarly, 97.6% of the participants did not know if they had T2DM or not. Ninety eight percent (98%) of the participants had not voluntarily checked their blood glucose level. CONCLUSIONS The majority of the participants in the study were not aware if they had HTN or T2DM. The participants in the study perceived that the salt they consume is the right quantity. There is a high consumption of vegetable oil in most meals prepared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lonestar Lazarus Gonde
- University of KwaZulu Natal, College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Public Health, Durban, 4041, South Africa.
| | - Moses John Chimbari
- University of KwaZulu Natal, College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Public Health, Durban, 4041, South Africa
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14
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Chireshe R, Naidoo K, Nyamakura R. Hypertension among human immunodeficiency virus infected patients on treatment at Parirenyatwa Hospital: A descriptive study. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2019; 11:e1-e8. [PMID: 31478742 PMCID: PMC6739546 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v11i1.1974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Since the roll-out of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in sub-Saharan Africa (sSA) in the early 2000s, the life expectancy of people infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has increased. However, the gains made in reducing mortality from HIV-related complications have been mitigated by the emergence of age-related chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as hypertension. Protease inhibitors (PIs), and prolonged exposure to highly active ART (HAART) have been implicated in the development of hypertension in HIV-positive people. Aim To investigate the prevalence of hypertension and its associated risk factors among HIV-positive patients receiving ART. Setting The study was carried out at an urban-based clinic that provides HAART and primary care to HIV-positive people in Harare, Zimbabwe. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among non-pregnant adults on HAART attending the clinic between July and August 2018. Results We studied 600 HIV-positive adult patients, of which 56% were women. The prevalence rate of hypertension was 29.9%. Of the participants in the hypertensive group, 11.2% were not previously diagnosed or on treatment. Factors associated with hypertension were advanced age, use of HAART for longer than 10 years, being overweight, a family history of hypertension and smoking. There was a 68.8% prevalence of body mass index greater than 25 kg/m2 among all participants. Conclusion High hypertension prevalence was recorded. Hypertension was not associated with gender or use of PI regimens but being overweight was highly prevalent. Greater vigilance and integration of resources is required in the overall treatment and monitoring of HIV-positive patients for co-morbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumbidzai Chireshe
- Discipline of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.
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15
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Chimberengwa PT, Naidoo M. Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to hypertension among residents of a disadvantaged rural community in southern Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215500. [PMID: 31237883 PMCID: PMC6657811 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypertension contributes significantly to cardiovascular and renal diseases.
It can be controlled by lifestyle modifications, however in poor communities
there is lack of awareness, and treatment and control of hypertension is
often poor. The aim of this study was to determine hypertension knowledge,
attitudes and practices in a disadvantaged rural community in Matebeleland
South province of Zimbabwe. Methods We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional survey on hypertensive patients in
the community. A pre-tested and validated interviewer-administered
questionnaire was used to collect demographic, awareness, treatment and
control data among consenting hypertensive patients. Results 304 respondents were enrolled into the study (mean age, 59 years), and a
majority were women (65.4%). The treatment default rate was 30.9%, and 25%
of respondents on medication did not know their blood pressure control
status. Knowledge on hypertension was poor, with 64.8% of respondents
stating that stress was its main cause, 85.9% stated that palpitations were
a symptom of hypertension and 59.8% of respondents added salt on the table.
The more education respondents had received, the more likely they were
knowledgeable about hypertension (odds ratio for secondary education, 3.68
[95% CI: 1.61–8.41], and for tertiary education, 7.52 [95% CI: 2.76–20.46],
compared to those without formal education). Those who believed in herbal
medicines (50.7%) and those who used traditional medicines (14.5%) were 53%
(95% CI: 0.29–0.76) and 68% (95% CI: 0.29–0.76) less likely to be
knowledgeable about hypertension compared to those who did not believe in or
use traditional medicines, respectively. Conclusion Members of the community had poor knowledge on hypertension. This was
associated with a lack of education and with strong beliefs in herbal and
traditional medicines in the community, which influenced attitudes and
practices on hypertension. Dietary risk factors were linked to poor
knowledge. Hypertensive medicine shortages at the clinic resulted in
worsened hypertension care and poor hypertension outcomes in the
community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pugie Tawanda Chimberengwa
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and
Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South
Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Mergan Naidoo
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and
Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South
Africa
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16
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Basopo V, Mujasi PN. To what extent do prescribing practices for hypertension in the private sector in Zimbabwe follow the national treatment guidelines? An analysis of insurance medical claims. J Pharm Policy Pract 2017; 10:37. [PMID: 29214027 PMCID: PMC5713660 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-017-0125-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hypertension is the most prevalent cardiovascular disease in Zimbabwe. The prevalence of Hypertension in the country is above 30% regardless of the cut off used. Currently, majority of patients in Zimbabwe seek health care from the private sector due to limited government funding for the public health sector. However, Standard treatment guidelines for hypertension are only available in the public sector and are optional in the private sector. This study assesses compliance of private sector prescribing to Standard Treatment guidelines for hypertension. Methods We reviewed hypertension prescription claims to a private health insurance company in Zimbabwe for the period Jan 1-Dec 31 2015. We used the last prescription claimed in the year on the assumption that it represented the patient’s current treatment. Prescription data was analyzed by comparing medicines prescribed to those recommended in the Zimbabwe 7th Essential Medicines List and Standard Treatment Guidelines 2015. We used Microsoft Excel© 2010 to conduct the analysis. Results A total of 1019 prescriptions were reviewed. Most patients were either on mono or dual therapy (76%). The mostly prescribed class of antihypertensive as first line were Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors /Angiotensin Receptor Blockers. Regardless of whether they were being used as first, second or third line this class of antihypertensives emerged as the most prescribed (639 times). Only 358 (35%) prescriptions were compliant with standard treatment guidelines; the rest (661) did not meet several criteria. Areas of non-compliance included use of second line medicines as first line, failure to consider patient characteristics when prescribing, use of contraindicated medicines for certain patients, clinically significant interactions among prescribed medicines and illogical combinations that predispose patients to toxicity. Conclusion The poor compliance to standard treatment guidelines observed in our study indicates need to improve prescription practices for Hypertension in the private sector in Zimbabwe for its cost-effective management among the covered patients. However, further investigation is needed to understand the drivers of the prescribing habits and the non-compliance to the Essential Medicines List and Standard Treatment guidelines observed. This will enable design of appropriate educational, managerial and economic interventions to improve compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Basopo
- International Master in Health Economics & Pharmacoeconomics, Barcelona School of Management, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Balmes 132, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paschal N Mujasi
- International Master in Health Economics & Pharmacoeconomics, Barcelona School of Management, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Balmes 132, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
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Mutowo MP, Lorgelly PK, Laxy M, Renzaho AMN, Mangwiro JC, Owen AJ. The Hospitalization Costs of Diabetes and Hypertension Complications in Zimbabwe: Estimations and Correlations. J Diabetes Res 2016; 2016:9754230. [PMID: 27403444 PMCID: PMC4925986 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9754230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective. Treating complications associated with diabetes and hypertension imposes significant costs on health care systems. This study estimated the hospitalization costs for inpatients in a public hospital in Zimbabwe. Methods. The study was retrospective and utilized secondary data from medical records. Total hospitalization costs were estimated using generalized linear models. Results. The median cost and interquartile range (IQR) for patients with diabetes, $994 (385-1553) mean $1319 (95% CI: 981-1657), was higher than patients with hypertension, $759 (494-1147) mean $914 (95% CI: 825-1003). Female patients aged below 65 years with diabetes had the highest estimated mean costs ($1467 (95% CI: 1177-1828)). Wound care had the highest estimated mean cost of all procedures, $2884 (95% CI: 2004-4149) for patients with diabetes and $2239 (95% CI: 1589-3156) for patients with hypertension. Age below 65 years, medical procedures (amputation, wound care, dialysis, and physiotherapy), the presence of two or more comorbidities, and being prescribed two or more drugs were associated with significantly higher hospitalization costs. Conclusion. Our estimated costs could be used to evaluate and improve current inpatient treatment and management of patients with diabetes and hypertension and determine the most cost-effective interventions to prevent complications and comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutsa P. Mutowo
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Paula K. Lorgelly
- Centre for Health Economics, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Michael Laxy
- Helmholtz Zentrum München (GmbH), German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Health Economics and Health Care Management (IGM), Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Andre M. N. Renzaho
- School of Social Science and Psychology, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2751, Australia
| | | | - Alice J. Owen
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
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Mutowo MP, Owen AJ, Billah B, Lorgelly PK, Gumbie KE, Mangwiro JC, Renzaho AMN. Burden attributable to Cardiometabolic Diseases in Zimbabwe: a retrospective cross-sectional study of national mortality data. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:1213. [PMID: 26644134 PMCID: PMC4672515 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2554-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) are an important cause of mortality worldwide and the burden associated with them is increasing in Sub-Saharan Africa. The tracking of mortality helps support evidence based health policy and priority setting. Given the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Zimbabwe, a study was designed to determine the mortality attributable to CMDs in Zimbabwe. METHODS The study design was a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of national mortality from 1996 to 2007, collated by the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare in Zimbabwe. We employed generalized additive models to flexibly estimate the trend of the CMD mortality and a logistic regression model was used to find significant factors (cause of death according to the death certificate) of the CMD mortality and predict CMD mortality to 2040. RESULTS CMDs accounted for 8.13% (95% CI: 8.08% - 8.18%) of all deaths during 1996 to 2007 (p = 0.005). During the study period CMD mortality rate increased by 29.4% (95% CI: 19.9% - 41.1%). The association between gender and CMD mortality indicated female mortality was higher for diabetes (p < 0.001), hypertensive disease (p < 0.001), CVD (p < 0.001) and pulmonary disease (p < 0.001), while male mortality was higher for ischaemic (p = 0.010) and urinary diseases (p < 0.001). There was no gender difference for endocrine disease (p = 0.893). Overall, females have 1.65% higher mortality than males (p < 0.001). CMD mortality is predicted to increase from 9.6 (95% CI: 8.0% - 11.1%) in 2015 to 13.7% (95% CI: 10.2% - 17.2%) in 2040 for males, and from 11.6% (95% CI: 10.2% - 12.9%) in 2015 to 16.2% (95% CI: 13.1% - 19.3%) in 2040 in females. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate a growing prevalence of CMDs and related mortality in Zimbabwe. Health policy decisions and cost-effective preventive strategies to reduce the burden of CMDs are urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutsa P Mutowo
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004, Australia.
| | - Alice J Owen
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004, Australia.
| | - Baki Billah
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004, Australia.
| | - Paula K Lorgelly
- Centre for Health Economics, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004, Australia.
| | - Kudzai E Gumbie
- Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries (FIA) , Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - John C Mangwiro
- Zimbabwe Diabetes Association, PO Box 1797, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Andre M N Renzaho
- School of Social Science and Psychology, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, 2751, , New South Wales, Australia.
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