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Misunas C, Hindin MJ, Phillips-Howard PA, Sommer M. The Association Between Hormonal Contraceptive Use and Anemia Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women: An Analysis of Data From 51 Low- and Middle-Income Countries. J Adolesc Health 2024; 74:563-572. [PMID: 37978956 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study explores whether adolescent girls and young women aged 15-24 who use hormonal methods of contraception are more or less likely to be anemic than their peers. We further examine whether the association between anemia and hormonal contraception varies based on the severity of anemia or the duration of method use. METHODS We conducted secondary analysis of data available for 51 low- and middle-income countries from the Demographic and Health Surveys. For each country, we used logistic regression models to explore the odds of being anemic (mildly, moderately, or severely) for those using hormonal methods of contraception. We also explored the odds of being moderately or severely anemic based on hormonal method use. Drawing on country-level effect estimates, we conducted meta-regression analyses to produce overall estimates of the association between anemia and hormonal contraception. RESULTS Overall, adolescent girls and young women using hormonal methods had lower odds of being mildly, moderately, or severely anemic (adjusted odds ratio 0.68; p < .001) and lower odds of being moderately or severely anemic (adjusted odds ratio 0.57; p < .001) compared to those not using any contraception. Both short- and long-term users of hormonal methods had lower odds of being anemic and lower odds of being moderately or severely anemic compared to those not using hormonal methods. DISCUSSION This study furthers our understanding of the association between anemia and use of hormonal contraception among adolescent girls and young women. More research is needed to assess causality and whether hormonal methods mediate the effects of heavy menstrual bleeding or other risk factors of anemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Misunas
- Department of Demography, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California.
| | - Michelle J Hindin
- Global Health and Population Research Department, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Marni Sommer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University, New York, New York
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Otiso L, Steege R, Njoroge I, Okoth L, Tubb P, Nyothach E, Phillips-Howard PA, Theobald S, Taegtmeyer M. Safeguarding in practice: anticipating, minimising and mitigating risk in teenage pregnancy research in urban informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e013519. [PMID: 38423546 PMCID: PMC10910648 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Safeguarding challenges in global health research include sexual abuse and exploitation, physical and psychological abuse, financial exploitation and neglect. Intersecting individual identities (such as gender and age) shape vulnerability to risk. Adolescents, who are widely included in sexual and reproductive health research, may be particularly vulnerable. Sensitive topics like teenage pregnancy may lead to multiple risks. We explored potential safeguarding risks and mitigation strategies when studying teenage pregnancies in informal urban settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. Risk mapping was initiated by the research team that had prolonged engagement with adolescent girls and teen mothers. The team mapped potential safeguarding risks for both research participants and research staff due to, and unrelated to, the research activity. Mitigation measures were agreed for each risk. The draft risk map was validated by community members and coresearchers in a workshop. During implementation, safeguarding risks emerged across the risk map areas and are presented as case studies. Risks to the girls included intimate partner violence because of a phone provided by the study; male participants faced potential disclosure of their perceived criminal activity (impregnating teenage girls); and researchers faced psychological and physical risks due to the nature of the research. These cases shed further light on safeguarding as a key priority area for research ethics and implementation. Our experience illustrates the importance of mapping safeguarding risks and strengthening safeguarding measures throughout the research lifecycle. We recommend co-developing and continuously updating a safeguarding map to enhance safety, equity and trust between the participants, community and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Otiso
- LVCT Health, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rosie Steege
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | - Phil Tubb
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Penelope A Phillips-Howard
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- CGHR, KEMRI, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Sally Theobald
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Miriam Taegtmeyer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Phillips-Howard PA, Osire E, Akinyi C, Zulaika G, Otieno FO, Mehta SD. Water, sanitation and hygiene at sex work venues to support menstrual needs. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1305601. [PMID: 38481834 PMCID: PMC10936742 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1305601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adequate menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) is necessary for women's health and equity of all menstruators. Female sex workers (FSW) require good MHH to prevent discomfort and exposure to pathogens. No studies have evaluated water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions of FSW. We report on a cross-sectional WASH assessment at FSW venues in Kisumu, western Kenya. Methods Stakeholders identified 77 FSW venues in Kisumu, of which 47 were randomly sampled and visited between April-May 2023. A standardized structured survey of WASH conditions was deployed by trained research staff using Android tablets after proprietor's consent. WASH scores ranging 0-3 were computed based on point each for direct observation of water available, soap available, and acceptable latrine. MHH scores ranging between 0-4 were computed (one point each) for direct observation of: currently available soap and water, locking door on a usable latrine, functional lighting, and a private area for changing clothes or menstrual materials, separate from the latrine(s). WASH and MHH scores were compared by venue type using non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis tests, and non-parametric Spearman rank tests. Results Full WASH criteria was met by 29.8% of venues; 34.0% had no adequate WASH facilities; 46.8% had no female latrine; and 25.5% provided soap and water in private spaces for women. While 76.6% had menstrual waste disposal only 14 (29.8%) had covered bins. One in 10 venues provided adequate MHM facilities. Poorest WASH facilities were in brothels and in bars, and three-quarters of bars with accommodation had no MHH facilities. Discussion WASH and MHH services were sub-optimal in the majority of FSW venues, preventing menstrual management safely, effectively, with dignity and privacy. This study highlights the unmet need for MHH support for this population. Poor MHH can deleteriously impact FSW health and wellbeing and compound the stigma and shame associated with their work and ability to stay clean. Acceptable and cost-effective solutions to sustainably improve WASH facilities for these populations are needed. Trial registration Clinicaltrial.gov NCT0566678.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Edyth Osire
- Nyanza Reproductive Health Society, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | - Supriya D. Mehta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL, United States
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Mehta SD, Nandi D, Otieno F, Zulaika G, Nyothach E, Agingu W, Bhaumik R, Mason L, van Eijk AM, Phillips-Howard PA. Increased reproductive tract infections among secondary school girls during the COVID-19 pandemic: associations with pandemic related stress, mental health, and domestic safety. medRxiv 2024:2024.02.17.24302973. [PMID: 38405836 PMCID: PMC10889038 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.17.24302973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Background Kenya, like many countries, shuttered schools during COVID-19, with subsequent increases in poor mental health, sexual activity, and pregnancy. We sought to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic may mediate risk of reproductive tract infections. We hypothesized that greater COVID-19 related stress would mediate risk via mental health, feeling safe inside the home, and sexual exposure, given the pandemic mitigation-related impacts of school closures on these factors. Methods We analyzed data from a cohort of 436 girls enrolled in secondary school in rural western Kenya. Baseline, 6-, 12-, and 18- month study visits occurred April 2018 - December 2019 (pre-COVID), and 30-, 36-, and 48- month study visits occurred September 2020 - July 2022 (COVID period). At study visits, participants self-completed a survey for sociodemographics and sexual practices, and provided self-collected vaginal swabs for Bacterial vaginosis (BV) testing, with STI testing at annual visits. COVID-related stress was measured with a standardized scale and dichotomized at highest quartile. Mixed effects modeling quantified how BV and STI changed over time, and longitudinal mediation analysis quantified how the relationship between COVID-19 stress and increased BV was mediated. Findings BV and STI prevalence increased from 12.1% and 10.7% pre-COVID to 24.5% and 18.1% during COVID, respectively. This equated to a 26% (95% CI 1.00 - 1.59) and 36% (95% CI 0.98 - 1.88) increased relative prevalence of BV and STIs, respectively, in the COVID-19 period compared to pre-COVID, adjusted for numerous sociodemographic and behavioral factors. Higher COVID-related stress was associated with elevated depressive symptoms and feeling less safe inside the home, which were each associated with increased likelihood of having a boyfriend. In longitudinal mediation analyses, the direct effect of COVID-related stress on BV was small and non-significant, indicating increased BV was due to the constellation of factors that were impacted during the COVID-pandemic. Conclusions In this cohort of adolescent girls, BV and STIs increased following COVID-related school closures. These results highlight modifiable factors to help maintain sexual and reproductive health resiliency, such as anticipating and mitigating mental health impacts, domestic safety concerns, and maintaining sexual health services to prevent and treat reproductive tract infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya D Mehta
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Rush University College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Debarghya Nandi
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | - Runa Bhaumik
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anna Maria van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Plesons M, Torondel B, Caruso BA, Hennegan J, Sommer M, Haver J, Keiser D, van Eijk AM, Zulaika G, Mason L, Phillips-Howard PA. Research priorities for improving menstrual health across the life-course in low- and middle-income countries. Glob Health Action 2023; 16:2279396. [PMID: 38010372 PMCID: PMC10795652 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2023.2279396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on menstrual health is required to understand menstrual needs and generate solutions to improve health, wellbeing, and productivity. The identification of research priorities will help inform where to invest efforts and resources. OBJECTIVES To identify research priorities for menstrual health across the life-course, in consultation with a range of stakeholder groups from a variety of geographic regions, and to identify if menstrual health research priorities varied by expertise. METHODS A modified version of the Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative approach was utilized to reach consensus on a set of research priorities. Multisector stakeholders with menstrual health expertise, identified through networks and the literature, were invited to submit research questions through an online survey. Responses were consolidated, and individuals were invited to rank these questions based on novelty, potential for intervention, and importance/impact. Research priority scores were calculated and evaluated by participants' characteristics. RESULTS Eighty-two participants proposed 1135 research questions, which were consolidated into 94 unique research questions. The mean number of questions did not differ between low- and middle-income country (LMIC) and high-income country (HIC) participants, but significantly more questions were raised by participants with expertise in mental health and WASH. Sixty-six participants then ranked these questions. The top ten-ranked research questions included four on 'understanding the problem', four on 'designing and implementing interventions', one on 'integrating and scaling up', and one on 'measurement'. Indicators for the measurement of adequate menstrual health over time was ranked the highest priority by all stakeholders. Top ten-ranked research questions differed between academics and non-academics, and between participants from HICs and LMICs, reflecting differences in needs and knowledge gaps. CONCLUSIONS A list of ranked research priorities was generated through a consultative process with stakeholders across LMICs and HICs which can inform where to invest efforts and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Plesons
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Belen Torondel
- Department of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Bethany A. Caruso
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Julie Hennegan
- Maternal, Child, and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marni Sommer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacquelyn Haver
- School Health and Nutrition, Department of Education and Children Protection, Save the Children US, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Anna M. van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Hennegan J, Caruso BA, Zulaika G, Torondel B, Haver J, Phillips-Howard PA, Valdez J, Gruer C, Okwaro N, Mahon T, Sommer M. Indicators for National and Global Monitoring of Girls' Menstrual Health and Hygiene: Development of a Priority Shortlist. J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:992-1001. [PMID: 37737755 PMCID: PMC10654045 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the importance of menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) for adolescent girls' health, education, and gender equality, few countries monitor MHH. MHH needs remain underprioritized, and progress achieved through policies, programs, or investments go unmeasured. This article reports the systematic development of an indicator shortlist to monitor adolescent girls' MHH at the national and global levels across low- and middle-income countries. METHODS A core group of MHH researchers and practitioners collaborated with stakeholders from three countries with demonstrated commitment to monitoring MHH (Bangladesh, Kenya, and the Philippines), measures experts, and a global advisory group. The approach included the following: (1) define domains for monitoring MHH; (2) review and map existing indicators and measures; (3) iteratively shortlist indicators through appraising quality, feasibility, and stakeholder input; and (4) refine the shortlist and develop guidance for use. RESULTS The shortlist comprises 21 indicators across seven domains covering menstrual materials, water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities, knowledge, discomforts and disorders, supportive social environments, menstrual health impacts, and policies. Indicators are accompanied by measures that have been tested or are expected to provide reliable data, alongside justification for their selection and guidance for use. DISCUSSION The shortlisted indicators reflect the multisectoral collaboration necessary for ensuring girls' MHH. Uptake requires integration into monitoring systems at national and global levels. Future work remains to evaluate the performance of the indicators over time and to support their widespread use. Governments and stakeholders can use these indicators to track the progress of programs and policies, monitor unmet MHH needs, identify disparities, and set targets for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Hennegan
- Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bethany A Caruso
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Belen Torondel
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jacquelyn Haver
- Department of Education and Child Protection, School Health and Nutrition Program, Save the Children US, Washington, D.C
| | | | - Jonathan Valdez
- Department of Education and Child Protection, School Health and Nutrition Program, Save the Children US, Washington, D.C
| | - Caitlin Gruer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | | | - Therese Mahon
- International Programmes Department, WaterAid, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marni Sommer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York.
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Zulaika G, Nyothach E, van Eijk AM, Wang D, Opollo V, Obor D, Mason L, Chen T, Kerubo E, Oyaro B, Mwaki A, Eleveld A, Ngere I, Fwaya E, ter Kuile FO, Kwaro D, Phillips-Howard PA. Menstrual cups and cash transfer to reduce sexual and reproductive harm and school dropout in adolescent schoolgirls in western Kenya: a cluster randomised controlled trial. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 65:102261. [PMID: 37860578 PMCID: PMC10582356 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background High rates of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) harms and interrupted schooling are global challenges for adolescent girls, requiring effective interventions. We assessed the impact of menstrual cups (MCs) or cash transfers conditioned on school attendance (CCTs), or both, on SRH and schooling outcomes in western Kenya. Methods In this cluster-randomised Cups or Cash for Girls (CCG) trial, adolescent girls in Forms two and three at 96 secondary schools in Siaya County (western Kenya) were randomised to receive either CCT, MC, combined CCT and MC, or control (1:1:1:1) for an average of 30 months. The CCT intervention comprised 1500KES (US$15 in 2016) via a cash card each school trimester. All four treatment groups received puberty and hygiene training. Assenting girls with parent or guardian consent who were post-menarche, not pregnant, area residents, not boarding, and had no disabilities precluding participation were eligible. Socio-behavioural risk factors and incidence of HIV and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) were measured annually. School retainment and adverse events were monitored throughout. The primary outcome comprised a composite of incident HIV, HSV-2 and/or all-cause school dropout by school exit examination. The primary analysis was by intention-to-treat (ITT) using generalised linear mixed models, controlling for a priori selected baseline covariates. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03051789. Findings Between February 28, 2017 and June 30, 2021, 4137 girls (median age 17.1 [interquartile range (IQR): 16.3-18.0]) were enrolled and followed annually until completion of secondary school (median 2.5 years [IQR: 2.4-2.7]); 4106 (99.3%) contributed to the ITT analysis. No differences in the primary composite outcome between intervention and control groups were seen (MC: 18.2%, CCT: 22.1%, combined: 22.1%, control: 19.6%; adjusted risk ratio [aRR]: 0.97, 95% confidence interval 0.76-1.24; 1.14, 0.90-1.45; and 1.13, 0.90-1.43, respectively). Incident HSV-2 occurred in 8.6%, 13.3%, 14.8%, and 12% of the MC, CCT, combined and control groups, respectively (MC: RR: 0.67, 0.47-0.95, p = 0.027; aRR: 0.71, 0.50-1.01, p = 0.057; CCT: aRR: 1.02, 0.73-1.41, p = 0.92; combined aRR: 1.16, 0.85-2.58, p = 0.36). Incident HIV was low (MC: 1.2%, CCT: 1.5%, combined: 1.0%, and control: 1.4%; aRR: 0.88, 0.38-2.05, p = 0.77, aRR: 1.16, 0.51-2.62, p = 0.72, aRR: 0.80, 0.33-1.94, p = 0.62, respectively). No intervention decreased school dropout (MC: 11.2%, CCT: 12.4%, combined: 10.9%, control: 10.5%; aRR: 1.16, 0.86-1.57; 1.23, 0.91-1.65; and 1.06, 0.78-1.44, respectively). No related serious adverse events were seen. Interpretation MCs, CCTs, or both, did not protect schoolgirls against a composite of deleterious harms. MCs appear protective against HSV-2. Studies of longer follow-up duration with objective measures of health impact are needed in this population. Funding Department of Health and Social Care, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the Medical Research Council and Wellcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Anna Maria van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Duolao Wang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Valarie Opollo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - David Obor
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Emily Kerubo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Boaz Oyaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Alex Mwaki
- Safe Water and AIDS Project (SWAP), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Alie Eleveld
- Safe Water and AIDS Project (SWAP), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Isaac Ngere
- Washington State University Global Health Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Feiko O. ter Kuile
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Daniel Kwaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
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Mehta SD, Agingu W, Zulaika G, Nyothach E, Bhaumik R, Green SJ, van Eijk AM, Otieno FO, Phillips-Howard PA, Schneider J. Vaginal Microbial Network Analysis Reveals Novel Taxa Relationships among Adolescent and Young Women with Incident Sexually Transmitted Infection Compared with Those Remaining Persistently Negative over a 30-Month Period. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2035. [PMID: 37630595 PMCID: PMC10459434 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11082035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
A non-optimal vaginal microbiome (VMB) is typically diverse with a paucity of Lactobacillus crispatus and is often associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Although compositional characterization of the VMB is well-characterized, especially for BV, knowledge remains limited on how different groups of bacteria relate to incident STIs, especially among adolescents. In this study, we compared the VMB (measured via 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon sequencing) of Kenyan secondary school girls with incident STIs (composite of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis) to those who remained persistently negative for STIs and BV over 30 months of follow-up. We applied microbial network analysis to identify key taxa (i.e., those with the greatest connectedness in terms of linkages to other taxa), as measured by betweenness and eigenvector centralities, and sub-groups of clustered taxa. VMB networks of those who remained persistently negative reflected greater connectedness compared to the VMB from participants with STI. Taxa with the highest centralities were not correlated with relative abundance and differed between those with and without STI. Subject-level analyses indicated that sociodemographic (e.g., age and socioeconomic status) and behavioral (e.g., sexual activity) factors contribute to microbial network structure and may be of relevance when designing interventions to improve VMB health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya D. Mehta
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Division of Infectious Disease Medicine, College of Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Walter Agingu
- Nyanza Reproductive Health Society, Kisumu P.O. Box 1764, Kenya
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L7 8XZ, UK (P.A.P.-H.)
| | | | - Runa Bhaumik
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Stefan J. Green
- Division of Infectious Disease Medicine, College of Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Genomics and Microbiome Core Facility, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Anna Maria van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L7 8XZ, UK (P.A.P.-H.)
| | | | | | - John Schneider
- Departments of Medicine and Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA;
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Erchick DJ, Subedi S, Verhulst A, Guillot M, Adair LS, Barros AJD, Chasekwa B, Christian P, da Silva BGC, Silveira MF, Hallal PC, Humphrey JH, Huybregts L, Kariuki S, Khatry SK, Lachat C, Matijasevich A, McElroy PD, Menezes AMB, Mullany LC, Perez TLL, Phillips-Howard PA, Roberfroid D, Santos IS, ter Kuile FO, Ravilla TD, Tielsch JM, Wu LSF, Katz J. Quality of vital event data for infant mortality estimation in prospective, population-based studies: an analysis of secondary data from Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Popul Health Metr 2023; 21:10. [PMID: 37507749 PMCID: PMC10375772 DOI: 10.1186/s12963-023-00309-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infant and neonatal mortality estimates are typically derived from retrospective birth histories collected through surveys in countries with unreliable civil registration and vital statistics systems. Yet such data are subject to biases, including under-reporting of deaths and age misreporting, which impact mortality estimates. Prospective population-based cohort studies are an underutilized data source for mortality estimation that may offer strengths that avoid biases. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of data from the Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group, including 11 population-based pregnancy or birth cohort studies, to evaluate the appropriateness of vital event data for mortality estimation. Analyses were descriptive, summarizing study designs, populations, protocols, and internal checks to assess their impact on data quality. We calculated infant and neonatal morality rates and compared patterns with Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data. RESULTS Studies yielded 71,760 pregnant women and 85,095 live births. Specific field protocols, especially pregnancy enrollment, limited exclusion criteria, and frequent follow-up visits after delivery, led to higher birth outcome ascertainment and fewer missing deaths. Most studies had low follow-up loss in pregnancy and the first month with little evidence of date heaping. Among studies in Asia and Latin America, neonatal mortality rates (NMR) were similar to DHS, while several studies in Sub-Saharan Africa had lower NMRs than DHS. Infant mortality varied by study and region between sources. CONCLUSIONS Prospective, population-based cohort studies following rigorous protocols can yield high-quality vital event data to improve characterization of detailed mortality patterns of infants in low- and middle-income countries, especially in the early neonatal period where mortality risk is highest and changes rapidly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Erchick
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Seema Subedi
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Andrea Verhulst
- Population Studies Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Michel Guillot
- Population Studies Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
- Department of Sociology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Linda S. Adair
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Aluísio J. D. Barros
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Bernard Chasekwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Parul Christian
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | | | | | - Pedro C. Hallal
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Jean H. Humphrey
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Lieven Huybregts
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC USA
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Simon Kariuki
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Carl Lachat
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alicia Matijasevich
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine FMUSP, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Peter D. McElroy
- Malaria Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Ana Maria B. Menezes
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Luke C. Mullany
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Tita Lorna L. Perez
- USC-Office of Population Studies Foundation, University of San Carlos, Cebu City, Philippines
| | | | | | - Iná S. Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Feiko O. ter Kuile
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - James M. Tielsch
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC USA
| | - Lee S. F. Wu
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Joanne Katz
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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10
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Shenkman JL, Neubauer LC, Mason L, Oruko K, Alexander K, Phillips-Howard PA, Nyothach E. Building menstrual health and hygiene-supportive environments: exploring teachers' experience in rural Western Kenya. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1206069. [PMID: 37559733 PMCID: PMC10407083 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1206069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Existing school environments and staff play a critical role in Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) for school aged girls in middle and low-income countries. This paper leverages teachers' perspectives on menstruation and the impact of the Menstrual Solutions (MS) study, an open cluster randomized controlled feasibility study to determine the impact of puberty education, nurses support, and menstrual product provision on girls' academic performance and emotional well-being. Methods Seventeen focus group discussions were conducted from October 2012 through November 2013 with teachers at six participating schools, held at three different time points during the study period. Results Key themes that emerged were emotions and blood, absenteeism, the role of teachers in MHH, and the impact of sensitization. Teachers noted that poor MHH had an impact on school attendance, transparency and openness with teachers, and student behavior in class. It was reported that adolescent girls would absent themselves for 3-5 days during their menstrual cycle depending on what materials they could use, and they would often shy away from teachers, when possible, only speaking to them about their menses if it was urgent or they needed to go home. Emotions such as fear and embarrassment were commonly associated with bleeding. At the midpoint and end of the study, teachers noted that the puberty education and menstrual product provision (where applicable) had a positive impact on girls' attendance, attention, and comfort in the classroom. Girls became more open with both male and female teachers about their menses, and more comfortable and confident in the classroom among all classmates. Discussion This research highlights the importance of building an MHH-supportive environment with multiple school personnel within schools to develop a gender-equitable environment for girls to learn confidently without undue interference. Teachers are key adults in adolescent girls' lives, having the potential to foster an environment that empowers girls with greater autonomy to manage their menses. This highlights a need to consider their perspectives in intervention development. Sensitization of teachers and puberty education across both genders are key components to developing the MHH-supportive environment in schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia L. Shenkman
- Division of Public Health Practice, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Leah C. Neubauer
- Division of Public Health Practice, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kelvin Oruko
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
- Kenya Medical Training College, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kelly Alexander
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Water + Team, Care International, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
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11
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Schmitt ML, Dimond K, Maroko AR, Phillips-Howard PA, Gruer C, Berry A, Nash D, Kochhar S, Sommer M. "I stretch them out as long as possible:" U.S. women's experiences of menstrual product insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:179. [PMID: 37060006 PMCID: PMC10104689 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02333-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing body of evidence highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated gender inequalities in the US. This resulted in women being more vulnerable to economic insecurity and decreases in their overall well-being. One relevant issue that has been less explored is that of women's menstrual health experiences, including how inconsistent access to menstrual products may negatively impact their daily lives. METHODS This qualitative study, conducted from March through May 2021, utilized in-depth interviews that were nested within a national prospective cohort study. The interviews (n = 25) were conducted with a sub-sample of cis-gender women living across the US who had reported challenges accessing products during the first year of the pandemic. The interviews sought to understand the barriers that contributed to experiencing menstrual product insecurity, and related coping mechanisms. Malterud's 'systematic text condensation', an inductive thematic analysis method, was utilized to analyze the qualitative transcripts. RESULTS Respondents came from 17 different states across the U.S. Three key themes were identified: financial and physical barriers existed to consistent menstrual product access; a range of coping strategies in response to menstrual product insecurity, including dependence on makeshift and poorer quality materials; and heightened experiences of menstrual-related anxiety and shame, especially regarding the disclosure of their menstruating status to others as a result of inadequate menstrual leak protection. CONCLUSIONS Addressing menstrual product insecurity is a critical step for ensuring that all people who menstruate can attain their most basic menstrual health needs. Key recommendations for mitigating the impact of menstrual product insecurity require national and state-level policy reform, such as the inclusion of menstrual products in existing safety net basic needs programs, and the reframing of menstrual products as essential items. Improved education and advocacy are needed to combat menstrual stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret L Schmitt
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 W 168Th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Katie Dimond
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 W 168Th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Andrew R Maroko
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York (CUNY), New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - Caitlin Gruer
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 W 168Th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Amanda Berry
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York (CUNY), New York City, NY, USA
| | - Denis Nash
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York (CUNY), New York City, NY, USA
| | - Shivani Kochhar
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York (CUNY), New York City, NY, USA
| | - Marni Sommer
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 W 168Th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
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12
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Chumo I, Kabaria C, Elsey H, Ozano K, Phillips-Howard PA, Mberu B. Co-creation and self-evaluation: An accountability mechanism process in water, sanitation and hygiene services delivery in childcare centres in Nairobi's informal settlements. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1035284. [PMID: 36711348 PMCID: PMC9877527 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1035284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Accountability strategies are expected to enhance access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) service delivery in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC). Conventional formal social accountability mechanisms (SAMs) for WASH service delivery have been inadequate to meet the needs of residents in informal settlements in LMICs. This has prompted growing interest in alternative informal SAMs (iSAMs) in Nairobi's informal settlements. To date, iSAMs have shown a limited effect, often due to implementation failures and poor contextual fit. In childcare centers in Nairobi's informal settlements, co-creation of the iSAMs process, where parents, childcare managers, researchers and other WASH stakeholders, contribute to the design and implementation of iSAMs, is an approach with the potential to meet urgent WASH needs. However, to our knowledge, no study has documented (1) co-creating iSAMs processes for WASH service delivery in childcare centers and (2) self-evaluation of the co-creation process in the informal settlements. Methods We used a qualitative approach where we collected data through workshops and focus group discussions to document and inform (a) co-creation processes of SAMs for WASH service delivery in childcare centers and (b) self-evaluation of the co-creation process. We used a framework approach for data analysis informed by Coleman's framework. Results Study participants co-created an iSAM process that entailed: definition; action and sharing information; judging and assessing; and learning and adapting iSAMs. The four steps were considered to increase the capability to meet WASH needs in childcare centers. We also documented a self-evaluation appraisal of the iSAM process. Study participants described that the co-creation process could improve understanding, inclusion, ownership and performance in WASH service delivery. Negative appraisals described included financial, structural, social and time constraints. Conclusion We conclude that the co-creation process could address contextual barriers which are often overlooked, as it allows understanding of issues through the 'eyes' of people who experience service delivery issues. Further, we conclude that sustainable and equitable WASH service delivery in childcare centers in informal settlements needs research that goes beyond raising awareness to fully engage and co-create to ensure that novel solutions are developed at an appropriate scale to meet specific needs. We recommend that actors should incorporate co-creation in identification of feasible structures for WASH service delivery in childcare centers and other contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivy Chumo
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya,*Correspondence: Ivy Chumo ✉
| | - Caroline Kabaria
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen Elsey
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Kim Ozano
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Institute of Public Health, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Penelope A. Phillips-Howard
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Institute of Public Health, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Blessing Mberu
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
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13
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de Siqueira Filha NT, Li J, Phillips-Howard PA, Quayyum Z, Kibuchi E, Mithu MIH, Vidyasagaran A, Sai V, Manzoor F, Karuga R, Awal A, Chumo I, Rao V, Mberu B, Smith J, Saidu S, Tolhurst R, Mazumdar S, Rosu L, Garimella S, Elsey H. The economics of healthcare access: a scoping review on the economic impact of healthcare access for vulnerable urban populations in low- and middle-income countries. Int J Equity Health 2022; 21:191. [PMID: 36585704 PMCID: PMC9805259 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-022-01804-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The growing urban population imposes additional challenges for health systems in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We explored the economic burden and inequities in healthcare utilisation across slum, non-slum and levels of wealth among urban residents in LMICs. METHODS This scoping review presents a narrative synthesis and descriptive analysis of studies conducted in urban areas of LMICs. We categorised studies as conducted only in slums, city-wide studies with measures of wealth and conducted in both slums and non-slums settlements. We estimated the mean costs of accessing healthcare, the incidence of catastrophic health expenditures (CHE) and the progressiveness and equity of health expenditures. The definitions of slums used in the studies were mapped against the 2018 UN-Habitat definition. We developed an evidence map to identify research gaps on the economics of healthcare access in LMICs. RESULTS We identified 64 studies for inclusion, the majority of which were from South-East Asia (59%) and classified as city-wide (58%). We found severe economic burden across health conditions, wealth quintiles and study types. Compared with city-wide studies, slum studies reported higher direct costs of accessing health care for acute conditions and lower costs for chronic and unspecified health conditions. Healthcare expenditures for chronic conditions were highest amongst the richest wealth quintiles for slum studies and more equally distributed across all wealth quintiles for city-wide studies. The incidence of CHE was similar across all wealth quintiles in slum studies and concentrated among the poorest residents in city-wide studies. None of the definitions of slums used covered all characteristics proposed by UN-Habitat. The evidence map showed that city-wide studies, studies conducted in India and studies on unspecified health conditions dominated the current evidence on the economics of healthcare access. Most of the evidence was classified as poor quality. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicated that city-wide and slums residents have different expenditure patterns when accessing healthcare. Financial protection schemes must consider the complexity of healthcare provision in the urban context. Further research is needed to understand the causes of inequities in healthcare expenditure in rapidly expanding and evolving cities in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jinshuo Li
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | | | - Zahidul Quayyum
- James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Eliud Kibuchi
- MRC/CSO Social &, University of Glasgow, Public Health Sciences Unit, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Varun Sai
- The George Institute for Global Health, New Delhi, India
| | - Farzana Manzoor
- James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Abdul Awal
- James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ivy Chumo
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Vinodkumar Rao
- The Society for Promotion of Area Resource Centres, Mumbai, India
| | - Blessing Mberu
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Smith
- COMAHS: University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Samuel Saidu
- COMAHS: University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Rachel Tolhurst
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Department of International Public Health, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sumit Mazumdar
- University of York, Centre for Health Economics, York, UK
| | - Laura Rosu
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Helen Elsey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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14
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Spinhoven P, Zulaika G, Nyothach E, van Eijk AM, Obor D, Fwaya E, Mason L, Wang D, Kwaro D, Phillips-Howard PA. Quality of life and well-being problems in secondary schoolgirls in Kenya: Prevalence, associated characteristics, and course predictors. PLOS Glob Public Health 2022; 2:e0001338. [PMID: 36962912 PMCID: PMC10022324 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa often report low levels of quality of life (QoL) and well-being, but reliable data are limited. This study examines which sociodemographic, health, and behavioral risk factors and adverse adolescent experiences are associated with, and predictive of, QoL in Kenyan secondary schoolgirls. METHODS AND FINDINGS 3,998 girls at baseline in a randomised controlled trial in Siaya County, western Kenya were median age 17.1 years. Subjectively perceived physical, emotional, social and school functioning was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life (QoL) Inventory-23. Laboratory-confirmed and survey data were utilized to assess sociodemographic, health and behavioral characteristics, and adverse adolescent experiences. We identified a group of girls with Low QoL (n = 1126; 28.2%), Average QoL (n = 1445; 36.1%); and High QoL (n = 1427; 35.7%). Significantly higher scores on all well-being indicators in the LQoL compared with HQoL group indicated good construct validity (Odds Ratio's (ORs) varying from 3.31 (95% CI:2.41-4.54, p < .001) for feeling unhappy at home to 11.88 (95%CI:7.96-17.74, p< .001) for PHQ9 defined possible caseness (probable diagnosis) of depression. Adverse adolescent experiences were independently statistically significant in the LQoL compared to the HQoL group for threats of family being hurt (aOR = 1.35,1.08-1.68, p = .008), sexual harassment out of school (aOR = 2.17,1.79-2.64, p < .001), and for menstrual problems like unavailability of sanitary pads (aOR = 1.23,1.05-1.44, p = .008) and stopping activities due to menstruation (aOR = 1.77,1.41-2.24, p < .001). After 2-years follow-up of 906 girls in the LQoL group, 22.7% persisted with LQoL. Forced sex (aOR = 1.56,1.05-2.32, p = .028) and threats of family being hurt (aOR = 1.98,1.38-2.82, p < .001) were independent predictors of persistent LQoL problems. CONCLUSIONS Persistent QoL problems in Kenyan adolescent girls are associated with adverse physical, sexual and emotional experiences and problems with coping with their monthly menstruation. A multi-factorial integral approach to reduce the rate of adverse adolescent experiences is needed, including provision of menstrual hygiene products. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT03051789.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Spinhoven
- Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - David Obor
- Centre for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Linda Mason
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Duolao Wang
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Kwaro
- Centre for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
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Chumo I, Kabaria C, Phillips-Howard PA, Simiyu S, Elsey H, Mberu B. Mapping social accountability actors and networks and their roles in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in childcare centres within Nairobi’s informal settlements: A governance diaries approach. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275491. [PMCID: PMC9665391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite many institutions gaining access to improved water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, childcare centres in informal settlements have low access and poor condition of WASH services. It is imperative to understand how existing actors and social networks operate in the WASH sector in childcare centres in Nairobi’s informal settlements. Objective To empirically map and understand how different actors within informal settlements influence the provision of adequate and quality water, sanitation and hygiene services within childcare centres in Nairobi’s informal settlements. Methods This was a qualitative study. We conducted an ethnographic study using governance diaries with 24 participants from Korogocho and Viwandani informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. The governance diaries approach involved conducting bi-weekly governance in-depth interviews (IDIs) with study participants for 4 months, complemented with observations, reflections, participant diaries and informal discussions. We used a framework analysis which is partly deductive, informed by the governance framework and stakeholder framework. Results Social accountability actors were individuals or groups involved in WASH service provision in childcare centres. The actors included both key actors (actors who are primary to meeting the day-to-day WASH service needs of children) and non-key actors (actors operating in the WASH sector but not always present for day-to-day provision in childcare centres). The key actors were unanimously identified as childcare centre owners/teachers and parents/guardians as they had a more direct role in the provision of WASH services in childcare centres. The actors had direct, possible or desired networks, with the direct networks portrayed more by the parents and childcare centre owners, whose roles included acting as a voice and responding to the WASH service needs of children as it relates to access and quality. Centre owners had more power/authority over WASH services for children in childcare centres than the parents. Key actors derived power by their discretion depending on whether a decision was beneficial to children or not. Lastly, the interest of key actors were diverse ranging from income generation, access to WASH services by children, compliance with government regulations, and promotion of child health, to the prevention of the spread of diseases. Conclusion Our study highlights that parents and childcare owners play an important role in WASH service provision. While service providers and other players may be statutorily given primary responsibilities for WASH provision, and more visible in official standing, among study participants they are not seen as primary actors but secondary players with ancillary responsibilities. We conclude that WASH service provision in child care centres may be realised when key actors have a voice and work within networks to demand WASH services from desired networks including the government. We also conclude that developing more direct networks and converting desired and potential networks into direct networks in WASH service provision is critical for the success of WASH service delivery. Lastly, actors in WASH services in childcare centres may need to collaborate in identifying potential avenues for strengthening existing networks that enhance access and quality of WASH services in childcare centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivy Chumo
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - Caroline Kabaria
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Sheillah Simiyu
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen Elsey
- University of York and Hull York Medical School, York, United Kingdom
| | - Blessing Mberu
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
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16
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Babagoli MA, Benshaul-Tolonen A, Zulaika G, Nyothach E, Oduor C, Obor D, Mason L, Kerubo E, Ngere I, Laserson KF, Tudor Edwards R, Phillips-Howard PA. Cost-Effectiveness and Cost-Benefit Analyses of Providing Menstrual Cups and Sanitary Pads to Schoolgirls in Rural Kenya. Womens Health Rep (New Rochelle) 2022; 3:773-784. [PMID: 36185073 PMCID: PMC9518800 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2021.0131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Objective To analyze the relative value of providing menstrual cups and sanitary pads to primary schoolgirls. Design Cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit analyses of three-arm single-site open cluster randomized controlled pilot study providing menstrual cups or sanitary pads for 1 year. Participants Girls 14-16 years of age enrolled across 30 primary schools in rural western Kenya. Methods Cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted based on the health effects (reductions in disability-adjusted life years [DALYs]) and education effects (reductions in school absenteeism) of both interventions. The health and education benefits were separately valued and compared with relative program costs. Results Compared with the control group, the cost of menstrual cups was estimated at $3,270 per year for 1000 girls, compared with $24,000 for sanitary pads. The benefit of the menstrual cup program (1.4 DALYs averted, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -4.3 to 3.1) was higher compared with a sanitary pad program (0.48 DALYs averted, 95% CI: -4.2 to 2.3), but the health effects of both interventions were not statistically significant likely due to the limited statistical power. Using point estimates, the menstrual cup intervention was cost-effective in improving health outcomes ($2,300/DALY averted). The sanitary pad intervention had a cost-effectiveness of $300/student-school year in reducing school absenteeism. When considering improvements in future earnings from reduced absenteeism, the sanitary pad program had a net benefit of +$68,000 (95% CI: -$32,000 to +$169,000). Conclusions The menstrual cup may provide a cost-effective solution for menstrual hygiene management in low-income settings. This study outlines a methodology for future analyses of menstrual hygiene interventions and highlights several knowledge gaps that need to be addressed. Trial registration: ISRCTN17486946.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masih A. Babagoli
- Department of Economics, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | | | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Clifford Oduor
- Centre for Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - David Obor
- Centre for Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Kerubo
- Centre for Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Isaac Ngere
- County Health Headquarters, Ministry of Health, Siaya County, Kenya
| | - Kayla F. Laserson
- Division of Global Health Protection, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rhiannon Tudor Edwards
- Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluations, Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
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Sommer M, Phillips-Howard PA, Gruer C, Schmitt ML, Nguyen AM, Berry A, Kochhar S, Gorrell Kulkarni S, Nash D, Maroko AR. Menstrual Product Insecurity Resulting From COVID-19‒Related Income Loss, United States, 2020. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:675-684. [PMID: 35319956 PMCID: PMC8961817 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2021.306674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. To identify key effects of the pandemic and its economic consequences on menstrual product insecurity with implications for public health practice and policy. Methods. Study participants (n = 1496) were a subset of individuals enrolled in a national (US) prospective cohort study. Three survey waves were included (March‒October 2020). Menstrual product insecurity outcomes were explored with bivariate associations and logistic regression models to examine the associations between outcomes and income loss. Results. Income loss was associated with most aspects of menstrual product insecurity (adjusted odds ratios from 1.34 to 3.64). The odds of not being able to afford products for those who experienced income loss was 3.64 times (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.14, 6.19) that of those who had no income loss and 3.95 times (95% CI = 1.78, 8.79) the odds for lower-income participants compared with higher-income participants. Conclusions. Pandemic-related income loss was a strong predictor of menstrual product insecurity, particularly for populations with lower income and educational attainment. Public Health Implications. Provision of free or subsidized menstrual products is needed by vulnerable populations and those most impacted by pandemic-related income loss.(Am J Public Health. 2022;112(4):675-684. (https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306674).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marni Sommer
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Penelope A Phillips-Howard
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Caitlin Gruer
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Margaret L Schmitt
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Angela-Maithy Nguyen
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Amanda Berry
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Shivani Kochhar
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Denis Nash
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
| | - Andrew R Maroko
- Marni Sommer, Caitlin Gruer, and Margaret L. Schmitt are with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Penelope A. Phillips-Howard is with the Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK. Angela-Maithy Nguyen is with the Interdisciplinary Division, School of Public Health, University of California‒Berkeley. Amanda Berry, Shivani Kochhar, Sarah Gorrell Kulkarni, and Denis Nash are with the Institute for Implementation Science in Population, City University of New York (CUNY), New York. Andrew R. Maroko is with the Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, CUNY
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19
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Zulaika G, Bulbarelli M, Nyothach E, van Eijk A, Mason L, Fwaya E, Obor D, Kwaro D, Wang D, Mehta SD, Phillips-Howard PA. Impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on adolescent pregnancy and school dropout among secondary schoolgirls in Kenya. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:e007666. [PMID: 35027438 PMCID: PMC8761596 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Secondary school closures aimed at limiting the number of infections and deaths due to COVID-19 may have amplified the negative sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and schooling outcomes of vulnerable adolescent girls. This study aimed to measure pandemic-related effects on adolescent pregnancy and school dropout among school-going girls in Kenya. METHODS We report longitudinal findings of 910 girls in their last 2 years of secondary school. The study took place in 12 secondary day schools in rural western Kenya between 2018 and 2021. Using a causal-comparative design, we compared SRH and schooling outcomes among 403 girls who graduated after completion of their final school examinations in November 2019 pre-pandemic with 507 girls who experienced disrupted schooling due to COVID-19 and sat examinations in March 2021. Unadjusted and adjusted generalised linear mixed models were used to investigate the effect of COVID-19-related school closures and restrictions on all outcomes of interest and on incident pregnancy. RESULTS At study initiation, the mean age of participants was 17.2 (IQR: 16.4-17.9) for girls in the pre-COVID-19 cohort and 17.5 (IQR: 16.5-18.4) for girls in the COVID-19 cohort. Girls experiencing COVID-19 containment measures had twice the risk of falling pregnant prior to completing secondary school after adjustment for age, household wealth and orphanhood status (adjusted risk ratio (aRR)=2.11; 95% CI:1.13 to 3.95, p=0.019); three times the risk of school dropout (aRR=3.03; 95% CI: 1.55 to 5.95, p=0.001) and 3.4 times the risk of school transfer prior to examinations (aRR=3.39; 95% CI: 1.70 to 6.77, p=0.001) relative to pre-COVID-19 learners. Girls in the COVID-19 cohort were more likely to be sexually active (aRR=1.28; 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.51, p=0.002) and less likely to report their first sex as desired (aRR=0.49; 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.65, p<0.001). These girls reported increased hours of non-school-related work (3.32 hours per day vs 2.63 hours per day in the pre-COVID-19 cohort, aRR=1.92; 95% CI: 1.92 to 2.99, p=0.004). In the COVID-19 cohort, 80.5% reported worsening household economic status and COVID-19-related stress was common. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic deleteriously affected the SRH of girls and amplified school transfer and dropout. Appropriate programmes and interventions that help buffer the effects of population-level emergencies on school-going adolescents are warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03051789.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Annemieke van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Eunice Fwaya
- Siaya County, Kenya Ministry of Health, Siaya, Kenya
| | - David Obor
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Daniel Kwaro
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Duolao Wang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Supriya D Mehta
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Ringwald B, Kababu M, Ochieng CB, Taegtmeyer M, Zulaika G, Phillips-Howard PA, Digolo L. Experiences and Perpetration of Recent Intimate Partner Violence Among Women and Men Living in an Informal Settlement in Nairobi, Kenya: A Secondary Data Analysis. J Interpers Violence 2022; 37:NP423-NP448. [PMID: 32370597 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520916268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Evidence suggests an overlap between intimate partner violence (IPV) experience and perpetration. However, few studies in sub-Saharan Africa have investigated experience and perpetration of IPV among women and men within the same community. This study reports prevalence of past-year IPV experience and perpetration among women and men living in an informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya, and factors associated with IPV. Data analyzed for this study involved a geographically distributed random sample of 273 women and 429 men who participated in a community survey. We approximated prevalence of IPV experience and perpetration and used logistic regression for estimating associations between individual-level factors and IPV. Women and men experienced similar levels of IPV, but a significantly higher proportion of men reported physical and sexual IPV perpetration. Witnessing violence between parents in childhood was associated with women's physical and sexual, and men's sexual IPV experience; and with women perpetrating emotional, and men perpetrating sexual IPV. Less equitable gender attitudes were associated with men's perpetration of physical IPV. More equitable gender knowledge was associated with women's experience of sexual IPV, and with men perpetrating IPV. Perceived skills to challenge gender inequitable practices were negatively associated with men perpetrating sexual IPV. In conclusion, we found IPV experience and perpetration were highly correlated, and that, contrary to commonly reported gender gaps, men and women experienced similar rates of IPV. We make suggestions for future research, including on IPV prevention interventions in areas with such IPV prevalence that would be beneficial for women and men and future generations.
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21
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van Eijk AM, Jayasinghe N, Zulaika G, Mason L, Sivakami M, Unger HW, Phillips-Howard PA. Exploring menstrual products: A systematic review and meta-analysis of reusable menstrual pads for public health internationally. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257610. [PMID: 34559839 PMCID: PMC8462722 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Girls and women need effective, safe, and affordable menstrual products. Single-use menstrual pads and tampons are regularly provided by agencies among resource-poor populations. Reusable menstrual pads (RMPs: fabric layers sewn together by an enterprise for manufacture of menstrual products) may be an effective alternative. METHODS For this review (PROSPERO CRD42020179545) we searched databases (inception to November 1, 2020) for quantitative and qualitative studies that reported on leakage, acceptability, or safety of RMPs. Findings were summarised or combined using forest plots (random-effects meta-analysis). Potential costs and environmental savings associated with RMPs were estimated. RESULTS A total of 44 studies were eligible (~14,800 participants). Most were conducted in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC, 78%), and 20% in refugee settings. The overall quality of studies was low. RMP uptake in cohort studies ranged from 22-100% (12 studies). One Ugandan trial among schoolgirls found leakage with RMPs was lower (44.4%, n = 72) compared to cloths (78%, n = 111, p<0.001). Self-reported skin-irritation was 23.8% after 3 months among RMP-users in a Ugandan cohort in a refugee setting (n = 267), compared to 72.8% at baseline with disposable pad use. There were no objective reports on infection. Challenges with washing and changing RMP were reported in LMIC studies, due to lack of water, privacy, soap, buckets, and sanitation/drying facilities. Among 69 brands, the average price for an RMP was $8.95 (standard deviation [sd] $5.08; LMIC $2.06, n = 10, high-income countries [HIC] $10.11), with a mean estimated lifetime of 4.3 years (sd 2.3; LMIC 2.9, n = 11; HIC 4.9 years, n = 23). In 5-year cost-estimates, in LMICs, 4-25 RMPs per period would be cheaper (170-417 US$) than 9-25 single-use pads, with waste-savings of ~600-1600 single-use pads. In HICs, 4-25 RMPs would be cheaper (33-245 US$) compared to 20 single-use tampons per period, with waste-savings of ~1300 tampons. CONCLUSION RMPs are used internationally and are an effective, safe, cheaper, and environmentally friendly option for menstrual product provision by programmes. Good quality studies in this field are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Naduni Jayasinghe
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | - Holger W. Unger
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
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22
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Mehta SD, Zulaika G, Otieno FO, Nyothach E, Agingu W, Bhaumik R, Green SJ, van Eijk AM, Kwaro D, Phillips-Howard PA. High Prevalence of Lactobacillus crispatus Dominated Vaginal Microbiome Among Kenyan Secondary School Girls: Negative Effects of Poor Quality Menstrual Hygiene Management and Sexual Activity. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:716537. [PMID: 34621690 PMCID: PMC8490761 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.716537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome (VMB) impacts numerous health outcomes, but evaluation among adolescents is limited. We characterized the VMB via 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, and its association with Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs; chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis) among 436 schoolgirls in Kenya, median age 16.9 years. BV and STI prevalence was 11.2% and 9.9%, respectively, with 17.6% of girls having any reproductive tract infection. Three community state types (CST) accounted for 95% of observations: CST-I L.crispatus-dominant (N=178, BV 0%, STI 2.8%, sexually active 21%); CST-III L.iners-dominant (N=152, BV 3.3%, STI 9.7%, sexually active 35%); CST-IV G.vaginalis-dominant (N=83, BV 51.8%, STI 25.3%, sexually active 43%). In multivariable adjusted analyses, sexually active girls had increased odds of CST-III and CST-IV, and use of cloth to manage menses had 1.72-fold increased odds of CST-IV vs. CST-I. The predominance of L.crispatus-dominated VMB, substantially higher than observed in prior studies of young adult and adult women in sub-Saharan Africa, indicates that non-optimal VMB can be an acquired state. Interventions to maintain or re-constitute L.crispatus dominance should be considered even in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya D. Mehta
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States,*Correspondence: Supriya D. Mehta,
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Runa Bhaumik
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Stefan J. Green
- Department of Internal Medicine and Genomics and Microbiome Core Facility, Rush University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Anna Maria van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Kwaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
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Sommer M, Zulaika G, Schmitt ML, Khandakji S, Phillips-Howard PA. : Advancing the measurement agenda for menstrual health and hygiene interventions in low- and middle-income countries. J Glob Health 2021; 10:010323. [PMID: 32257146 PMCID: PMC7100917 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.10.010323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marni Sommer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Margaret L Schmitt
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Samantha Khandakji
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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Sommer M, Caruso BA, Torondel B, Warren EC, Yamakoshi B, Haver J, Long J, Mahon T, Nalinponguit E, Okwaro N, Phillips-Howard PA. Menstrual hygiene management in schools: midway progress update on the "MHM in Ten" 2014-2024 global agenda. Health Res Policy Syst 2021; 19:1. [PMID: 33388085 PMCID: PMC7776301 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-020-00669-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [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: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Progress has been made in recent years to bring attention to the challenges faced by school-aged girls around managing menstruation in educational settings that lack adequate physical environments and social support in low- and middle-income countries. To enable more synergistic and sustained progress on addressing menstruation-related needs while in school, an effort was undertaken in 2014 to map out a vision, priorities, and a ten-year agenda for transforming girls' experiences, referred to as Menstrual Hygiene Management in Ten (MHM in Ten). The overarching vision is that girls have the information, support, and enabling school environment for managing menstruation with dignity, safety and comfort by 2024. This requires improved research evidence and translation for impactful national level policies. As 2019 marked the midway point, we assessed progress made on the five key priorities, and remaining work to be done, through global outreach to the growing network of academics, non-governmental organizations, advocates, social entrepreneurs, United Nations agencies, donors, and national governments. This paper delineates the key insights to inform and support the growing MHM commitment globally to maximize progress to reach our vision by 2024. Corresponding to the five priorities, we found that (priority 1) the evidence base for MHM in schools has strengthened considerably, (priority 2) global guidelines for MHM in schools have yet to be created, and (priority 3) numerous evidence-based advocacy platforms have emerged to support MHM efforts. We also identified (priority 4) a growing engagement, responsibility, and ownership of MHM in schools among governments globally, and that although MHM is beginning to be integrated into country-level education systems (priority 5), resources are lacking. Overall, progress is being made against identified priorities. We provide recommendations for advancing the MHM in Ten agenda. This includes continued building of the evidence, and expanding the number of countries with national level policies and the requisite funding and capacity to truly transform schools for all students and teachers who menstruate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marni Sommer
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America.
| | - Bethany A Caruso
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Belen Torondel
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elodie C Warren
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | | | - Jackie Haver
- Save the Children US, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Jeanne Long
- Save the Children US, Washington, DC, United States of America
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Sommer M, Torondel B, Hennegan J, Phillips-Howard PA, Mahon T, Motivans A, Zulaika G, Gruer C, Haver J, Caruso BA. How addressing menstrual health and hygiene may enable progress across the Sustainable Development Goals. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1920315. [PMID: 34190034 PMCID: PMC8253211 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1920315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing global attention to the importance of menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) for the lives of those who menstruate and gender equality. Yet, the global development community, which focuses on issues ranging from gender to climate change to health, is overdue to draw attention to how addressing MHH may enable progress in attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To address this gap, we undertook a collective exercise to hypothesize the linkages between MHH and the 17 SDGs, and to identify how MHH contributes to priority outcome measures within key sectoral areas of relevance to menstruating girls in low- and middle-income countries. These areas included Education, Gender, Health (Sexual and Reproductive Health; Psychosocial Wellbeing), and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH). These efforts were undertaken from February - March 2019 by global monitoring experts, together with select representatives from research institutions, non-governmental organizations, and governments (n = 26 measures task force members). Through this paper we highlight the findings of our activities. First, we outline the existing or potential linkages between MHH and all of the SDGs. Second, we report the identified priority outcomes related to MHH for key sectors to monitor. By identifying the potential contribution of MHH towards achieving the SDGs and highlighting the ways in which MHH can be monitored within these goals, we aim to advance recognition of the fundamental role of MHH in the development efforts of countries around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marni Sommer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Belen Torondel
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julie Hennegan
- Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Caitlin Gruer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | | | - Bethany A. Caruso
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
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Luo H, Liu S, Wang Y, Phillips-Howard PA, Ju S, Yang Y, Wang D. Age differences in clinical features and outcomes in patients with COVID-19, Jiangsu, China: a retrospective, multicentre cohort study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e039887. [PMID: 33020106 PMCID: PMC7536631 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-039887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the age-specific clinical presentations and incidence of adverse outcomes among patients with COVID-19 in Jiangsu, China. DESIGN AND SETTING Retrospective, multicentre cohort study performed at 24 hospitals in Jiangsu, China. PARTICIPANTS 625 patients with COVID-19 enrolled between 10 January and 15 March 2020. RESULTS Of the 625 patients (median age, 46 years; 329 (52.6%) men), 37 (5.9%) were children (18 years or younger), 261 (41.8%) young adults (19-44 years), 248 (39.7%) middle-aged adults (45-64 years) and 79 (12.6%) elderly adults (65 years or older). The incidence of hypertension, coronary heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and diabetes comorbidities increased with age (trend test, p<0.0001, p=0.0003, p<0.0001 and p<0.0001, respectively). Fever, cough and shortness of breath occurred more commonly among older patients, especially the elderly, compared with children (χ2 test, p=0.0008, 0.0146 and 0.0282, respectively). The quadrant score and pulmonary opacity score increased with age (trend test, both p<0.0001). Older patients had many significantly different laboratory parameters from younger patients. Elderly patients had the highest proportion of severe or critically-ill cases (33.0%, χ2 test p<0.0001), intensive care unit use (35.4%, χ2 test p<0.0001), respiratory failure (31.6%, χ2 test p<0.0001) and the longest hospital stay (median 21 days, Kruskal-Wallis test p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Elderly (≥65 years) patients with COVID-19 had the highest risk of severe or critical illness, intensive care use, respiratory failure and the longest hospital stay, which may be due partly to their having a higher incidence of comorbidities and poor immune responses to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanyuan Luo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Songqiao Liu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuancheng Wang
- Department of Radiology, Southeast University Zhongda Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | | | - Shenghong Ju
- Department of Radiology, Southeast University Zhongda Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Duolao Wang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Smit MR, Ochomo EO, Aljayyoussi G, Kwambai TK, Abong'o BO, Bousema T, Waterhouse D, Bayoh NM, Gimnig JE, Samuels AM, Desai MR, Phillips-Howard PA, Kariuki SK, Wang D, Ward SA, Ter Kuile FO. Human Direct Skin Feeding Versus Membrane Feeding to Assess the Mosquitocidal Efficacy of High-Dose Ivermectin (IVERMAL Trial). Clin Infect Dis 2020; 69:1112-1119. [PMID: 30590537 PMCID: PMC6743833 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy1063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ivermectin is being considered for mass drug administration for malaria, due to its ability to kill mosquitoes feeding on recently treated individuals. In a recent trial, 3-day courses of 300 and 600 mcg/kg/day were shown to kill Anopheles mosquitoes for at least 28 days post-treatment when fed patients' venous blood using membrane feeding assays. Direct skin feeding on humans may lead to higher mosquito mortality, as ivermectin capillary concentrations are higher. We compared mosquito mortality following direct skin and membrane feeding. METHODS We conducted a mosquito feeding study, nested within a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 141 adults with uncomplicated malaria in Kenya, comparing 3 days of ivermectin 300 mcg/kg/day, ivermectin 600 mcg/kg/day, or placebo, all co-administered with 3 days of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine. On post-treatment day 7, direct skin and membrane feeding assays were conducted using laboratory-reared Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto. Mosquito survival was assessed daily for 28 days post-feeding. RESULTS Between July 20, 2015, and May 7, 2016, 69 of 141 patients participated in both direct skin and membrane feeding (placebo, n = 23; 300 mcg/kg/day, n = 24; 600 mcg/kg/day, n = 22). The 14-day post-feeding mortality for mosquitoes fed 7 days post-treatment on blood from pooled patients in both ivermectin arms was similar with direct skin feeding (mosquitoes observed, n = 2941) versus membrane feeding (mosquitoes observed, n = 7380): cumulative mortality (risk ratio 0.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95-1.03, P = .69) and survival time (hazard ratio 0.96, 95% CI 0.91-1.02, P = .19). Results were consistent by sex, by body mass index, and across the range of ivermectin capillary concentrations studied (0.72-73.9 ng/mL). CONCLUSIONS Direct skin feeding and membrane feeding on day 7 resulted in similar mosquitocidal effects of ivermectin across a wide range of drug concentrations, suggesting that the mosquitocidal effects seen with membrane feeding accurately reflect those of natural biting. Membrane feeding, which is more patient friendly and ethically acceptable, can likely reliably be used to assess ivermectin's mosquitocidal efficacy. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT02511353.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menno R Smit
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Eric O Ochomo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu
| | | | - Titus K Kwambai
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom.,Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu.,Kenya Ministry of Health, Kisumu County, Kisumu
| | - Bernard O Abong'o
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nabie M Bayoh
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - John E Gimnig
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Aaron M Samuels
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Meghna R Desai
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Simon K Kariuki
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu
| | - Duolao Wang
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
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28
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Sommer M, Zulaika G, Schmitt ML, Khandakji S, Neudorf K, Gellis L, Phillips-Howard PA. Improving the impact of menstrual health innovations in low- and middle-income countries: a theory of change and measurement framework. Journal of Global Health Reports 2020. [DOI: 10.29392/001c.12105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marni Sommer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Margaret L Schmitt
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Samantha Khandakji
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kristin Neudorf
- Grand Challenges Canada/Grands Défis Canada, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leeat Gellis
- Grand Challenges Canada/Grands Défis Canada, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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29
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Zulaika G, Kwaro D, Nyothach E, Wang D, Zielinski-Gutierrez E, Mason L, Eleveld A, Chen T, Kerubo E, van Eijk A, Pace C, Obor D, Juma J, Oyaro B, Niessen L, Bigogo G, Ngere I, Henry C, Majiwa M, Onyango CO, Ter Kuile FO, Phillips-Howard PA. Menstrual cups and cash transfer to reduce sexual and reproductive harm and school dropout in adolescent schoolgirls: study protocol of a cluster-randomised controlled trial in western Kenya. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1317. [PMID: 31638946 PMCID: PMC6805471 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7594-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescent girls in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionally vulnerable to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) harms. In western Kenya, where unprotected transactional sex is common, young females face higher rates of school dropout, often due to pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. Staying in school has shown to protect girls against early marriage, teen pregnancy, and HIV infection. This study evaluates the impact of menstrual cups and cash transfer interventions on a composite of deleterious outcomes (HIV, HSV-2, and school dropout) when given to secondary schoolgirls in western Kenya, with the aim to inform evidence-based policy to improve girls’ health, school equity, and life-chances. Methods Single site, 4-arm, cluster randomised controlled superiority trial. Secondary schools are the unit of randomisation, with schoolgirls as the unit of measurement. Schools will be randomised into one of four intervention arms using a 1:1:1:1 ratio and block randomisation: (1) menstrual cup arm; (2) cash transfer arm, (3) cups and cash combined intervention arm, or (4) control arm. National and county agreement, and school level consent will be obtained prior to recruitment of schools, with parent consent and girls’ assent obtained for participant enrolment. Participants will be trained on safe use of interventions, with all arms receiving puberty and hygiene education. Annually, the state of latrines, water availability, water treatment, handwashing units and soap in schools will be measured. The primary endpoint is a composite of incident HIV, HSV-2, and all-cause school dropout, after 3 years follow-up. School dropout will be monitored each term via school registers and confirmed through home visits. HIV and HSV-2 incident infections and risk factors will be measured at baseline, mid-line and end-line. Intention to treat analysis will be conducted among all enrolled participants. Focus group discussions will provide contextual information on uptake of interventions. Monitoring for safety will occur throughout. Discussion If proved safe and effective, the interventions offer a potential contribution toward girls’ schooling, health, and equity in low- and middle-income countries. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03051789, 15th February 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Daniel Kwaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Duolao Wang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Emily Zielinski-Gutierrez
- Center for Global Health, Division of Global Health HIV and TB, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Alie Eleveld
- Safe Water and AIDS Project (SWAP), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Emily Kerubo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Annemieke van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Cheryl Pace
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - David Obor
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Jane Juma
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Boaz Oyaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Louis Niessen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Godfrey Bigogo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Carl Henry
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Maxwell Majiwa
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Feiko O Ter Kuile
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Penelope A Phillips-Howard
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
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30
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van Eijk AM, Zulaika G, Lenchner M, Mason L, Sivakami M, Nyothach E, Unger H, Laserson K, Phillips-Howard PA. Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, and availability: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Public Health 2019; 4:e376-e393. [PMID: 31324419 PMCID: PMC6669309 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(19)30111-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [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: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Girls and women need effective, safe, and affordable menstrual products. Single-use products are regularly selected by agencies for resource-poor settings; the menstrual cup is a less known alternative. We reviewed international studies on menstrual cup leakage, acceptability, and safety and explored menstrual cup availability to inform programmes. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Popline, Cinahl, Global Health database, Emerald, Google Scholar, Science.gov, and WorldWideScience from database inception to May 14, 2019, for quantitative or qualitative studies published in English on experiences and leakage associated with menstrual cups, and adverse event reports. We also screened the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database from the US Food and Drug Administration for events related to menstrual cups. To be eligible for inclusion, the material needed to have information on leakage, acceptability, or safety of menstrual cups. The main outcome of interest was menstrual blood leakage when using a menstrual cup. Safety outcomes of interest included serious adverse events; vaginal abrasions and effects on vaginal microflora; effects on the reproductive, digestive, or urinary tract; and safety in poor sanitary conditions. Findings were tabulated or combined by use of forest plots (random-effects meta-analysis). We also did preliminary estimates on costs and environmental savings potentially associated with cups. This systematic review is registered on PROSPERO, number CRD42016047845. FINDINGS Of 436 records identified, 43 studies were eligible for analysis (3319 participants). Most studies reported on vaginal cups (27 [63%] vaginal cups, five [12%] cervical cups, and 11 [25%] mixed types of cups or unknown) and 15 were from low-income and middle-income countries. 22 studies were included in qualitative or quantitative syntheses, of which only three were of moderate-to-high quality. Four studies made a direct comparison between menstrual cups and usual products for the main outcome of leakage and reported leakage was similar or lower for menstrual cups than for disposable pads or tampons (n=293). In all qualitative studies, the adoption of the menstrual cup required a familiarisation phase over several menstrual cycles and peer support improved uptake (two studies in developing countries). In 13 studies, 73% (pooled estimate: n=1144; 95% CI 59-84, I2=96%) of participants wished to continue use of the menstrual cup at study completion. Use of the menstrual cup showed no adverse effects on the vaginal flora (four studies, 507 women). We identified five women who reported severe pain or vaginal wounds, six reports of allergies or rashes, nine of urinary tract complaints (three with hydronephrosis), and five of toxic shock syndrome after use of the menstrual cup. Dislodgement of an intrauterine device was reported in 13 women who used the menstrual cup (eight in case reports, and five in one study) between 1 week and 13 months of insertion of the intrauterine device. Professional assistance to aid removal of menstrual cup was reported among 47 cervical cup users and two vaginal cup users. We identified 199 brands of menstrual cup, and availability in 99 countries with prices ranging US$0·72-46·72 (median $23·3, 145 brands). INTERPRETATION Our review indicates that menstrual cups are a safe option for menstruation management and are being used internationally. Good quality studies in this field are needed. Further studies are needed on cost-effectiveness and environmental effect comparing different menstrual products. FUNDING UK Medical Research Council, Department for International Development, and Wellcome Trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Madeline Lenchner
- Population Health Sciences, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Muthusamy Sivakami
- Centre for Health and Social Sciences, School of Health Systems Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Holger Unger
- Centre for Maternal and Newborn Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Kayla Laserson
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, India Country Office, New Delhi, India
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31
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany A Caruso
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Marni Sommer
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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32
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Sivakami M, Maria van Eijk A, Thakur H, Kakade N, Patil C, Shinde S, Surani N, Bauman A, Zulaika G, Kabir Y, Dobhal A, Singh P, Tahiliani B, Mason L, Alexander KT, Thakkar MB, Laserson KF, Phillips-Howard PA. Effect of menstruation on girls and their schooling, and facilitators of menstrual hygiene management in schools: surveys in government schools in three states in India, 2015. J Glob Health 2018; 9:010408. [PMID: 30546869 PMCID: PMC6286883 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.09.010408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lack of menstrual knowledge, poor access to sanitary products and a non-facilitating school environment can make it difficult for girls to attend school. In India, interventions have been developed to reduce the burden of menstruation for school girls by government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). We sought to identify challenges related to menstruation, and facilitators of menstrual management in schools in three states in India. Methods Surveys were conducted among menstruating school girls in class 8-10 (above 12 years of age) of 43 government schools selected through stratified random sampling in three Indian states (Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu) in 2015. For comparison, ten model schools supported by NGOs or UNICEF with a focussed menstrual hygiene education program were selected purposely in the same states to represent the better-case scenario. We examined awareness about menarche, items used for menstruation, and facilitators on girls’ experience of menstruation in regular schools and compared with model schools. Factors associated with school absence during menstruation were explored using multivariate analysis. Findings More girls (mean age 14.1 years) were informed about menstruation before menarche in model schools (56%, n = 492) than in regular schools (36%, n = 2072, P < 0.001). Girls reported menstruation affected school attendance (6% vs 11% in model vs regular schools respectively, P = 0.003) and concentration (40% vs 45%, P = 0.1) and was associated with pain (31% vs 38%, P = 0.004) and fear of stain or smell (11% vs 16%, P = 0.002). About 45% of girls reported using disposable pads in both model and regular schools, but only 55% and 29% of pad-users reported good disposal facilities, respectively (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, reported absenteeism during menstruation was significantly lower in Tamil Nadu (adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.24, 0.14-0.40) and Maharashtra (APR 0.56, CI = 0.40-0.77) compared to Chhattisgarh, and halved in model compared to regular schools (APR 0.50, CI = 0.34-0.73). Pain medication in school (APR 0.71, CI = 0.51-0.97) and use of disposable pads (APR 0.57, CI = 0.42-0.77) were associated with lower absenteeism and inadequate sanitary facilities with higher absenteeism during menstruation. Conclusions Menstrual hygiene education, accessible sanitary products, pain relief, and adequate sanitary facilities at school would improve the schooling-experience of adolescent girls in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muthusamy Sivakami
- School of Health Systems Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Anna Maria van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Harshad Thakur
- School of Health Systems Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Narendra Kakade
- School of Health Systems Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Chetan Patil
- School of Health Systems Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Sharayu Shinde
- School of Health Systems Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Nikita Surani
- School of Health Systems Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Ashley Bauman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Yusuf Kabir
- Water Sanitation and Hygiene Section, United Nations Children's Fund, India
| | - Arun Dobhal
- Water Sanitation and Hygiene Section, United Nations Children's Fund, India
| | - Prathiba Singh
- Water Sanitation and Hygiene Section, United Nations Children's Fund, India
| | - Bharathy Tahiliani
- Water Sanitation and Hygiene Section, United Nations Children's Fund, India
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Kelly T Alexander
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Kayla F Laserson
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) India, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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33
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Smit MR, Ochomo EO, Waterhouse D, Kwambai TK, Abong'o BO, Bousema T, Bayoh NM, Gimnig JE, Samuels AM, Desai MR, Phillips-Howard PA, Kariuki SK, Wang D, Ter Kuile FO, Ward SA, Aljayyoussi G. Pharmacokinetics-Pharmacodynamics of High-Dose Ivermectin with Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine on Mosquitocidal Activity and QT-Prolongation (IVERMAL). Clin Pharmacol Ther 2018; 105:388-401. [PMID: 30125353 PMCID: PMC6585895 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.1219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [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: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
High‐dose ivermectin, co‐administered for 3 days with dihydroartemisinin‐piperaquine (DP), killed mosquitoes feeding on individuals for at least 28 days posttreatment in a recent trial (IVERMAL), whereas 7 days was predicted pretrial. The current study assessed the relationship between ivermectin blood concentrations and the observed mosquitocidal effects against Anopheles gambiae s.s. Three days of ivermectin 0, 300, or 600 mcg/kg/day plus DP was randomly assigned to 141 adults with uncomplicated malaria in Kenya. During 28 days of follow‐up, 1,393 venous and 335 paired capillary plasma samples, 850 mosquito‐cluster mortality rates, and 524 QTcF‐intervals were collected. Using pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) modeling, we show a consistent correlation between predicted ivermectin concentrations and observed mosquitocidal‐effects throughout the 28‐day study duration, without invoking an unidentified mosquitocidal metabolite or drug‐drug interaction. Ivermectin had no effect on piperaquine's PKs or QTcF‐prolongation. The PK/PD model can be used to design new treatment regimens with predicted mosquitocidal effect. This methodology could be used to evaluate effectiveness of other endectocides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menno R Smit
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Eric O Ochomo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Titus K Kwambai
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK.,Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya.,Kenya Ministry of Health (MoH), Kisumu County, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Bernard O Abong'o
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center (Radboud), Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK
| | - Nabie M Bayoh
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - John E Gimnig
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Aaron M Samuels
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Meghna R Desai
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Simon K Kariuki
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Duolao Wang
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Stephen A Ward
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
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Alexander KT, Zulaika G, Nyothach E, Oduor C, Mason L, Obor D, Eleveld A, Laserson KF, Phillips-Howard PA. Do Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Conditions in Primary Schools Consistently Support Schoolgirls' Menstrual Needs? A Longitudinal Study in Rural Western Kenya. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2018; 15:ijerph15081682. [PMID: 30087298 PMCID: PMC6121484 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15081682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many females lack access to water, privacy and basic sanitation—felt acutely when menstruating. Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) conditions in schools, such as access to latrines, water, and soap, are essential for the comfort, equity, and dignity of menstruating girls. Our study was nested within a cluster randomized controlled pilot feasibility study where nurses provided menstrual items to schoolgirls. We observed the WASH conditions of 30 schools from June 2012–October 2013 to see if there were any changes in conditions, to compare differences between study arms and to examine agreement between observed and teacher-reported conditions. Data came from study staff observed, and school teacher reported, WASH conditions. We developed scores for the condition of school facilities to report any changes in conditions and compare outcomes across study arms. Results demonstrated that soap availability for students increased significantly between baseline and follow-up while there was a significant decrease in the number of “acceptable” latrines. During the study follow-up period, individual WASH indicators supporting menstruating girls, such as locks on latrine doors or water availability in latrines did not significantly improve. Advances in WASH conditions for all students, and menstrual hygiene facilities for schoolgirls, needs further support, a defined budget, and regular monitoring of WASH facilities to maintain standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly T Alexander
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L35QA, UK.
- Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE), 151 Ellis St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA.
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L35QA, UK.
| | | | - Clifford Oduor
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu 1578-40100, Kenya.
| | - Linda Mason
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L35QA, UK.
| | - David Obor
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu 1578-40100, Kenya.
| | - Alie Eleveld
- Safe Water and AIDS Programme, Kisumu 3323-40100, Kenya.
| | - Kayla F Laserson
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu 1578-40100, Kenya.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
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Young N, Taegtmeyer M, Aol G, Bigogo GM, Phillips-Howard PA, Hill J, Laserson KF, Ter Kuile F, Desai M. Integrated point-of-care testing (POCT) of HIV, syphilis, malaria and anaemia in antenatal clinics in western Kenya: A longitudinal implementation study. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198784. [PMID: 30028852 PMCID: PMC6054376 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In sub-Saharan Africa, HIV, syphilis, malaria and anaemia are leading preventable causes of adverse pregnancy outcomes. In Kenya, policy states women should be tested for all four conditions (malaria only if febrile) at first antenatal care (ANC) visit. In practice, while HIV screening is conducted, coverage of screening for the others is suboptimal and early pregnancy management of illnesses is compromised. This is particularly evident at rural dispensaries that lack laboratories and have parallel programmes for HIV, reproductive health and malaria, resulting in fractured and inadequate care for women. Methods A longitudinal eight-month implementation study integrating point-of-care diagnostic tests for the four conditions into routine ANC was conducted in seven purposively selected dispensaries in western Kenya. Testing proficiency of healthcare workers was observed at initial training and at three monthly intervals thereafter. Adoption of testing was compared using ANC register data 8.5 months before and eight months during the intervention. Fidelity to clinical management guidelines was determined by client exit interviews with success defined as ≥90% adherence. Findings For first ANC visits at baseline (n = 529), testing rates were unavailable for malaria, low for syphilis (4.3%) and anaemia (27.8%), and near universal for HIV (99%). During intervention, over 95% of first attendees (n = 586) completed four tests and of those tested positive, 70.6% received penicillin or erythromycin for syphilis, 65.5% and 48.3% received cotrimoxazole and antiretrovirals respectively for HIV, and 76.4% received artemether/lumefantrine, quinine or dihydroartemisinin–piperaquine correctly for malaria. Iron and folic supplements were given to nearly 90% of women but often at incorrect doses. Conclusions Integrating point-of-care testing into ANC at dispensaries with established HIV testing programmes resulted in a significant increase in testing rates, without disturbing HIV testing rates. While more cases were detected and treated, treatment fidelity still requires strengthening and an integrated monitoring and evaluation system needs to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Young
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Miriam Taegtmeyer
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - George Aol
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Godfrey M. Bigogo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Jenny Hill
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kayla F. Laserson
- Division of Global Health Protection, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Feiko Ter Kuile
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Meghna Desai
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
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Were V, Buff AM, Desai M, Kariuki S, Samuels A, Ter Kuile FO, Phillips-Howard PA, Patrick Kachur S, Niessen L. Socioeconomic health inequality in malaria indicators in rural western Kenya: evidence from a household malaria survey on burden and care-seeking behaviour. Malar J 2018; 17:166. [PMID: 29661245 PMCID: PMC5902919 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2319-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [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: 11/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health inequality is a recognized barrier to achieving health-related development goals. Health-equality data are essential for evidence-based planning and assessing the effectiveness of initiatives to promote equity. Such data have been captured but have not always been analysed or used to manage programming. Health data were examined for microeconomic differences in malaria indices and associated malaria control initiatives in western Kenya. METHODS Data was analysed from a malaria cross-sectional survey conducted in July 2012 among 2719 people in 1063 households in Siaya County, Kenya. Demographic factors, history of fever, malaria parasitaemia, malaria medication usage, insecticide-treated net (ITN) use and expenditure on malaria medications were collected. A composite socioeconomic status score was created using multiple correspondence analyses (MCA) of household assets; households were classified into wealth quintiles and dichotomized into poorest (lowest 3 quintiles; 60%) or less-poor (highest 2 quintiles; 40%). Prevalence rates were calculated using generalized linear modelling. RESULTS Overall prevalence of malaria infection was 34.1%, with significantly higher prevalence in the poorest compared to less-poor households (37.5% versus 29.2%, adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 1.23; 95% CI = 1.08-1.41, p = 0.002). Care seeking (aPR = 0.95; 95% CI 0.87-1.04, p = 0.229), medication use (aPR = 0.94; 95% CI 0.87-1.00, p = 0.087) and ITN use (aPR = 0.96; 95% CI = 0.87-1.05, p = 0.397) were similar between households. Among all persons surveyed, 36.4% reported taking malaria medicines in the prior 2 weeks; 92% took artemether-lumefantrine, the recommended first-line malaria medication. In the poorest households, 4.9% used non-recommended medicines compared to 3.5% in less-poor (p = 0.332). Mean and standard deviation [SD] for expenditure on all malaria medications per person was US$0.38 [US$0.50]; the mean was US$0.35 [US$0.52] amongst the poorest households and US$0.40 [US$0.55] in less-poor households (p = 0.076). Expenditure on non-recommended malaria medicine was significantly higher in the poorest (mean US$1.36 [US$0.91]) compared to less-poor households (mean US$0.98 [US$0.80]; p = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS Inequalities in malaria infection and expenditures on potentially ineffective malaria medication between the poorest and less-poor households were evident in rural western Kenya. Findings highlight the benefits of using MCA to assess and monitor the health-equity impact of malaria prevention and control efforts at the microeconomic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Were
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya. .,Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Ann M Buff
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria,Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA.,U.S. President's Malaria Initiative, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Meghna Desai
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria,Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
| | - Simon Kariuki
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Aaron Samuels
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria,Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
| | | | | | - S Patrick Kachur
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria,Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
| | - Louis Niessen
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Gust DA, Pan Y, Otieno F, Hayes T, Omoro T, Phillips-Howard PA, Odongo F, Otieno GO. Factors associated with physical violence by a sexual partner among girls and women in rural Kenya. J Glob Health 2018; 7:020406. [PMID: 28959439 PMCID: PMC5609512 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.07.020406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intimate partner physical violence increases women’s risk for negative health outcomes and is an important public health concern. The purpose of the present study was to determine 1) the proportion of girls (≤18 years) and women (>18 years) who experienced physical violence by a sexual partner, and 2) factors (including self–reported HIV infection) associated with girls and women who experienced physical violence by a sexual partner. Methods Cross–sectional surveys conducted in the Gem Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) area in Siaya County, western Kenya in 2011–2012 (Round 1) and 2013–2014 (Round 2). Findings Among 8003 unique participants (582 girls and 7421 women), 11.6% reported physical violence by a sexual partner in the last 12 months (girls: 8.4%, women: 11.8%). Three factors were associated with physical violence by a sexual partner among girls: being married or cohabiting (nearly 5–fold higher risk), low education, and reporting forced sex in the last 12 months (both with an approximate 2–fold higher risk). Predictive factors were similar for women, with the addition of partner alcohol/drug use and deliberately terminating a pregnancy. Self–reported HIV status was not associated with recent physical violence by a sexual partner among girls or women. Conclusions Gender–based physical violence is prevalent in this rural setting and has a strong relationship with marital status, low education level, and forced sex among girls and women. Concerted efforts to prevent child marriage and retain girls in school as well as implementation of school and community–based anti–violence programs may help mitigate this risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Gust
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yi Pan
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Fred Otieno
- Nyanza Reproductive Health Society, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - Fred Odongo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
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Smit MR, Ochomo EO, Aljayyoussi G, Kwambai TK, Abong'o BO, Chen T, Bousema T, Slater HC, Waterhouse D, Bayoh NM, Gimnig JE, Samuels AM, Desai MR, Phillips-Howard PA, Kariuki SK, Wang D, Ward SA, Ter Kuile FO. Safety and mosquitocidal efficacy of high-dose ivermectin when co-administered with dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine in Kenyan adults with uncomplicated malaria (IVERMAL): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet Infect Dis 2018; 18:615-626. [PMID: 29602751 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(18)30163-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ivermectin is being considered for mass drug administration for malaria due to its ability to kill mosquitoes feeding on recently treated individuals. However, standard, single doses of 150-200 μg/kg used for onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis have a short-lived mosquitocidal effect (<7 days). Because ivermectin is well tolerated up to 2000 μg/kg, we aimed to establish the safety, tolerability, and mosquitocidal efficacy of 3 day courses of high-dose ivermectin, co-administered with a standard malaria treatment. METHODS We did a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, superiority trial at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (Kisumu, Kenya). Adults (aged 18-50 years) were eligible if they had confirmed symptomatic uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria and agreed to the follow-up schedule. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1:1) using sealed envelopes, stratified by sex and body-mass index (men: <21 vs ≥21 kg/m2; women: <23 vs ≥23 kg/m2), with permuted blocks of three, to receive 3 days of ivermectin 300 μg/kg per day, ivermectin 600 μg/kg per day, or placebo, all co-administered with 3 days of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine. Blood of patients taken on post-treatment days 0, 2 + 4 h, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 28 was fed to laboratory-reared Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto mosquitoes, and mosquito survival was assessed daily for 28 days after feeding. The primary outcome was 14-day cumulative mortality of mosquitoes fed 7 days after ivermectin treatment (from participants who received at least one dose of study medication). The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02511353. FINDINGS Between July 20, 2015, and May 7, 2016, 741 adults with malaria were assessed for eligibility, of whom 141 were randomly assigned to receive ivermectin 600 μg/kg per day (n=47), ivermectin 300 μg/kg per day (n=48), or placebo (n=46). 128 patients (91%) attended the primary outcome visit 7 days post treatment. Compared with placebo, ivermectin was associated with higher 14 day post-feeding mosquito mortality when fed on blood taken 7 days post treatment (ivermectin 600 μg/kg per day risk ratio [RR] 2·26, 95% CI 1·93-2·65, p<0·0001; hazard ratio [HR] 6·32, 4·61-8·67, p<0·0001; ivermectin 300 μg/kg per day RR 2·18, 1·86-2·57, p<0·0001; HR 4·21, 3·06-5·79, p<0·0001). Mosquito mortality remained significantly increased 28 days post treatment (ivermectin 600 μg/kg per day RR 1·23, 1·01-1·50, p=0·0374; and ivermectin 300 μg/kg per day 1·21, 1·01-1·44, p=0·0337). Five (11%) of 45 patients receiving ivermectin 600 μg/kg per day, two (4%) of 48 patients receiving ivermectin 300 μg/kg per day, and none of 46 patients receiving placebo had one or more treatment-related adverse events. INTERPRETATION Ivermectin at both doses assessed was well tolerated and reduced mosquito survival for at least 28 days after treatment. Ivermectin 300 μg/kg per day for 3 days provided a good balance between efficacy and tolerability, and this drug shows promise as a potential new tool for malaria elimination. FUNDING Malaria Eradication Scientific Alliance (MESA) and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Menno R Smit
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Eric O Ochomo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Titus K Kwambai
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya; Kenya Ministry of Health, Kisumu County, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Bernard O Abong'o
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Tao Chen
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hannah C Slater
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Nabie M Bayoh
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - John E Gimnig
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Aaron M Samuels
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Meghna R Desai
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Simon K Kariuki
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Duolao Wang
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Steve A Ward
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Phillips-Howard
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases and Honorary Lecturer, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
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Omoro T, Gray SC, Otieno G, Mbeda C, Phillips-Howard PA, Hayes T, Otieno F, Gust DA. Teen pregnancy in rural western Kenya: a public health issue. International Journal of Adolescence and Youth 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2017.1402794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Omoro
- HIV Research Branch, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Simone C. Gray
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - George Otieno
- HIV Research Branch, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Calvin Mbeda
- HIV Research Branch, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - Deborah A. Gust
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Hennegan
- Centre for Evidence Based Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2ER, UK.
| | - Belen Torondel
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Marni Sommer
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul Montgomery
- Department of Social Policy and Social Work, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Sommer M, Phillips-Howard PA, Mahon T, Zients S, Jones M, Caruso BA. Beyond menstrual hygiene: addressing vaginal bleeding throughout the life course in low and middle-income countries. BMJ Glob Health 2017; 2:e000405. [PMID: 29225941 PMCID: PMC5717954 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2017-000405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Girls and women experience numerous types of vaginal bleeding. These include healthy reproductive processes, such as menstruation and bleeding after childbirth, but also bleeding related to health conditions, such as fibroids or cancer. In most societies, the management of menstruation is handled covertly, something girls are often instructed about at menarche. The management of other vaginal bleeding is often similarly discreet, although behaviours are not well documented. In many societies, cultural taboos frequently hinder open discussion around vaginal bleeding, restricting information and early access to healthcare. Additionally, the limited availability of clean, accessible water and sanitation facilities in many low and middle-income countries augments the challenges girls and women face in conducting daily activities while managing vaginal bleeding, including participating in school or work, going to the market or fetching water. This paper aims to highlight the key vaginal bleeding experiences throughout a woman's life course and the intersection of these bleeding experiences with their access to adequate water and sanitation facilities, information and education sources, and supplies. The aim is to address the silence around girls and women's vaginal bleeding and their related social, physical and clinical management needs across the life course; and highlight critical gaps that require attention in research, practice and policy around this neglected topic of health and gender equality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marni Sommer
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Sasha Zients
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Meredith Jones
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Bethany A Caruso
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Juma J, Nyothach E, Laserson KF, Oduor C, Arita L, Ouma C, Oruko K, Omoto J, Mason L, Alexander KT, Fields B, Onyango C, Phillips-Howard PA. Examining the safety of menstrual cups among rural primary school girls in western Kenya: observational studies nested in a randomised controlled feasibility study. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e015429. [PMID: 28473520 PMCID: PMC5566618 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-015429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Examine the safety of menstrual cups against sanitary pads and usual practice in Kenyan schoolgirls. DESIGN Observational studies nested in a cluster randomised controlled feasibility study. SETTING 30 primary schools in a health and demographic surveillance system in rural western Kenya. PARTICIPANTS Menstruating primary schoolgirls aged 14-16 years participating in a menstrual feasibility study. INTERVENTIONS Insertable menstrual cup, monthly sanitary pads or 'usual practice' (controls). OUTCOME MEASURES Staphylococcus aureus vaginal colonization, Escherichia coli growth on sampled used cups, toxic shock syndrome or other adverse health outcomes. RESULTS Among 604 eligible girls tested, no adverse event or TSS was detected over a median 10.9 months follow-up. S. aureusprevalence was 10.8%, with no significant difference over intervention time or between groups. Of 65 S.aureus positives at first test, 49 girls were retested and 10 (20.4%) remained positive. Of these, two (20%) sample isolates tested positive for toxic shock syndrome toxin-1; both girls were provided pads and were clinically healthy. Seven per cent of cups required replacements for loss, damage, dropping in a latrine or a poor fit. Of 30 used cups processed for E. coli growth, 13 (37.1%, 95% CI 21.1% to 53.1%) had growth. E. coli growth was greatest in newer compared with established users (53%vs22.2%, p=0.12). CONCLUSIONS Among this feasibility sample, no evidence emerged to indicate menstrual cups are hazardous or cause health harms among rural Kenyan schoolgirls, but large-scale trials and post-marketing surveillance should continue to evaluate cup safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Juma
- Center for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Center for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kayla F Laserson
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Clifford Oduor
- Center for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Lilian Arita
- Center for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Caroline Ouma
- Center for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kelvin Oruko
- Center for Global Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Jackton Omoto
- Siaya District Hospital, Ministry of Health, Siaya, Kenya
| | - Linda Mason
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Barry Fields
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Clayton Onyango
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Phillips-Howard PA, Caruso B, Torondel B, Zulaika G, Sahin M, Sommer M. Menstrual hygiene management among adolescent schoolgirls in low- and middle-income countries: research priorities. Glob Health Action 2016; 9:33032. [PMID: 27938648 PMCID: PMC5148805 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v9.33032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [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: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 09/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A lack of adequate guidance on menstrual management; water, disposal, and private changing facilities; and sanitary hygiene materials in low- and middle-income countries leaves schoolgirls with limited options for healthy personal hygiene during monthly menses. While a plethora of observational studies have described how menstrual hygiene management (MHM) barriers in school impact girls' dignity, well-being, and engagement in school activities, studies have yet to confirm if inadequate information and facilities for MHM significantly affects quantifiable school and health outcomes influencing girls' life chances. Evidence on these hard outcomes will take time to accrue; however, a current lack of standardized methods, tools, and research funding is hampering progress and must be addressed. OBJECTIVES Compile research priorities for MHM and types of research methods that can be used. RESULTS In this article, we highlight the current knowledge gaps in school-aged girls' MHM research, and identify opportunities for addressing the dearth of hard evidence limiting the ability of governments, donors, and other agencies to appropriately target resources. We outline a series of research priorities and methodologies that were drawn from an expert panel to address global priorities for MHM in schools for the next 10 years. CONCLUSIONS A strong evidence base for different settings, standardized definitions regarding MHM outcomes, improved study designs and methodologies, and the creation of an MHM research consortia to focus attention on this neglected global issue.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bethany Caruso
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Belen Torondel
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Murat Sahin
- WASH Section, Programme Division, United Nations Children Fund, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marni Sommer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
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Phillips-Howard PA, Nyothach E, Ter Kuile FO, Omoto J, Wang D, Zeh C, Onyango C, Mason L, Alexander KT, Odhiambo FO, Eleveld A, Mohammed A, van Eijk AM, Edwards RT, Vulule J, Faragher B, Laserson KF. Menstrual cups and sanitary pads to reduce school attrition, and sexually transmitted and reproductive tract infections: a cluster randomised controlled feasibility study in rural Western Kenya. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e013229. [PMID: 27881530 PMCID: PMC5168542 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-013229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Conduct a feasibility study on the effect of menstrual hygiene on schoolgirls' school and health (reproductive/sexual) outcomes. DESIGN 3-arm single-site open cluster randomised controlled pilot study. SETTING 30 primary schools in rural western Kenya, within a Health and Demographic Surveillance System. PARTICIPANTS Primary schoolgirls 14-16 years, experienced 3 menses, no precluding disability, and resident in the study area. INTERVENTIONS 1 insertable menstrual cup, or monthly sanitary pads, against 'usual practice' control. All participants received puberty education preintervention, and hand wash soap during intervention. Schools received hand wash soap. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Primary: school attrition (drop-out, absence); secondary: sexually transmitted infection (STI) (Trichomonas vaginalis, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoea), reproductive tract infection (RTI) (bacterial vaginosis, Candida albicans); safety: toxic shock syndrome, vaginal Staphylococcus aureus. RESULTS Of 751 girls enrolled 644 were followed-up for a median of 10.9 months. Cups or pads did not reduce school dropout risk (control=8.0%, cups=11.2%, pads=10.2%). Self-reported absence was rarely reported and not assessable. Prevalence of STIs in the end-of-study survey among controls was 7.7% versus 4.2% in the cups arm (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 0.48, 0.24 to 0.96, p=0.039), 4.5% with pads (aPR=0.62; 0.37 to 1.03, p=0.063), and 4.3% with cups and pads pooled (aPR=0.54, 0.34 to 0.87, p=0.012). RTI prevalence was 21.5%, 28.5% and 26.9% among cup, pad and control arms, 71% of which were bacterial vaginosis, with a prevalence of 14.6%, 19.8% and 20.5%, per arm, respectively. Bacterial vaginosis was less prevalent in the cups (12.9%) compared with pads (20.3%, aPR=0.65, 0.44 to 0.97, p=0.034) and control (19.2%, aPR=0.67, 0.43 to 1.04, p=0.075) arm girls enrolled for 9 months or longer. No adverse events were identified. CONCLUSIONS Provision of menstrual cups and sanitary pads for ∼1 school-year was associated with a lower STI risk, and cups with a lower bacterial vaginosis risk, but there was no association with school dropout. A large-scale trial on menstrual cups is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN17486946; Results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penelope A Phillips-Howard
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), UK
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Feiko O Ter Kuile
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), UK
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Jackton Omoto
- Siaya District Hospital, Ministry of Health, Siaya, Kenya
| | - Duolao Wang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), UK
| | - Clement Zeh
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-Kenya, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Clayton Onyango
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-Kenya, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), UK
| | - Kelly T Alexander
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), UK
| | - Frank O Odhiambo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Alie Eleveld
- Safe Water and AIDS Project (SWAP), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Aisha Mohammed
- Division of Reproductive Health, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anna M van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), UK
| | | | - John Vulule
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Brian Faragher
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), UK
| | - Kayla F Laserson
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
- Division of Global Health Protection, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Smit MR, Ochomo E, Aljayyoussi G, Kwambai T, Abong'o B, Bayoh N, Gimnig J, Samuels A, Desai M, Phillips-Howard PA, Kariuki S, Wang D, Ward S, Ter Kuile FO. Efficacy and Safety of High-Dose Ivermectin for Reducing Malaria Transmission (IVERMAL): Protocol for a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Dose-Finding Trial in Western Kenya. JMIR Res Protoc 2016; 5:e213. [PMID: 27856406 PMCID: PMC5133431 DOI: 10.2196/resprot.6617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Innovative approaches are needed to complement existing tools for malaria elimination. Ivermectin is a broad spectrum antiparasitic endectocide clinically used for onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis control at single doses of 150 to 200 mcg/kg. It also shortens the lifespan of mosquitoes that feed on individuals recently treated with ivermectin. However, the effect after a 150 to 200 mcg/kg oral dose is short-lived (6 to 11 days). Modeling suggests higher doses, which prolong the mosquitocidal effects, are needed to make a significant contribution to malaria elimination. Ivermectin has a wide therapeutic index and previous studies have shown doses up to 2000 mcg/kg (ie, 10 times the US Food and Drug Administration approved dose) are well tolerated and safe; the highest dose used for onchocerciasis is a single dose of 800 mcg/kg. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to determine the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of ivermectin doses of 0, 300, and 600 mcg/kg/day for 3 days, when provided with a standard 3-day course of the antimalarial dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP), on mosquito survival. METHODS This is a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, 3-arm, dose-finding trial in adults with uncomplicated malaria. Monte Carlo simulations based on pharmacokinetic modeling were performed to determine the optimum dosing regimens to be tested. Modeling showed that a 3-day regimen of 600 mcg/kg/day achieved similar median (5 to 95 percentiles) maximum drug concentrations (Cmax) of ivermectin to a single of dose of 800 mcg/kg, while increasing the median time above the lethal concentration 50% (LC50, 16 ng/mL) from 1.9 days (1.0 to 5.7) to 6.8 (3.8 to 13.4) days. The 300 mcg/kg/day dose was chosen at 50% of the higher dose to allow evaluation of the dose response. Mosquito survival will be assessed daily up to 28 days in laboratory-reared Anopheles gambiae s.s. populations fed on patients' blood taken at days 0, 2 (Cmax), 7 (primary outcome), 10, 14, 21, and 28 after the start of treatment. Safety outcomes include QT-prolongation and mydriasis. The trial will be conducted in 6 health facilities in western Kenya and requires a sample size of 141 participants (47 per arm). Sub-studies include (1) rich pharmacokinetics and (2) direct skin versus membrane feeding assays. RESULTS Recruitment started July 20, 2015. Data collection was completed July 2, 2016. Unblinding and analysis will commence once the database has been completed, cleaned, and locked. CONCLUSIONS High-dose ivermectin, if found to be safe and well tolerated, might offer a promising new tool for malaria elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menno R Smit
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Ochomo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Titus Kwambai
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya.,Kisumu County, Kenya Ministry of Health (MoH), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Bernard Abong'o
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Nabie Bayoh
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - John Gimnig
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Aaron Samuels
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Meghna Desai
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Simon Kariuki
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Duolao Wang
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Steve Ward
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Feiko O Ter Kuile
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the status of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) among adolescent girls in India to determine unmet needs. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched PubMed, The Global Health Database, Google Scholar and references for studies published from 2000 to September 2015 on girls' MHM. SETTING India. PARTICIPANTS Adolescent girls. OUTCOME MEASURES Information on menarche awareness, type of absorbent used, disposal, hygiene, restrictions and school absenteeism was extracted from eligible materials; a quality score was applied. Meta-analysis was used to estimate pooled prevalence (PP), and meta-regression to examine the effect of setting, region and time. RESULTS Data from 138 studies involving 193 subpopulations and 97,070 girls were extracted. In 88 studies, half of the girls reported being informed prior to menarche (PP 48%, 95% CI 43% to 53%, I(2) 98.6%). Commercial pad use was more common among urban (PP 67%, 57% to 76%, I(2) 99.3%, n=38) than rural girls (PP 32%, 25% to 38%, I(2) 98.6%, n=56, p<0.0001), with use increasing over time (p<0.0001). Inappropriate disposal was common (PP 23%, 16% to 31%, I(2) 99.0%, n=34). Menstruating girls experienced many restrictions, especially for religious activities (PP 0.77, 0.71 to 0.83, I(2) 99.1%, n=67). A quarter (PP 24%, 19% to 30%, I(2) 98.5%, n=64) reported missing school during periods. A lower prevalence of absenteeism was associated with higher commercial pad use in univariate (p=0.023) but not in multivariate analysis when adjusted for region (p=0.232, n=53). Approximately a third of girls changed their absorbents in school facilities (PP 37%, 29% to 46%, I(2) 97.8%, n=17). Half of the girls' homes had a toilet (PP 51%, 36% to 67%, I(2) 99.4%, n=21). The quality of studies imposed limitations on analyses and the interpretation of results (mean score 3 on a scale of 0-7). CONCLUSIONS Strengthening of MHM programmes in India is needed. Education on awareness, access to hygienic absorbents and disposal of MHM items need to be addressed. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42015019197.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool school of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - M Sivakami
- Tata Institute of Social Sciences, School of Health Systems Studies, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | | | - Ashley Bauman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool school of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kayla F Laserson
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) India, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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48
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Abstract
Marni Sommer and colleagues reflect on priorities needed to guide global, national, and local action to address girls' menstrual hygiene management needs in schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marni Sommer
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Bethany A. Caruso
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Murat Sahin
- UNICEF Headquarters, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Sue Cavill
- UNICEF Headquarters, New York, New York, United States of America
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Kerubo E, Laserson KF, Otecko N, Odhiambo C, Mason L, Nyothach E, Oruko KO, Bauman A, Vulule J, Zeh C, Phillips-Howard PA. Prevalence of reproductive tract infections and the predictive value of girls' symptom-based reporting: findings from a cross-sectional survey in rural western Kenya. Sex Transm Infect 2016; 92:251-6. [PMID: 26819339 PMCID: PMC4893088 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2015-052371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 09/26/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Reproductive tract infections (RTIs), including sexually acquired, among adolescent girls is a public health concern, but few studies have measured prevalence in low-middle-income countries. The objective of this study was to examine prevalence in rural schoolgirls in Kenya against their reported symptoms. Methods In 2013, a survey was conducted in 542 adolescent schoolgirls aged 14–17 years who were enrolled in a menstrual feasibility study. Vaginal self-swabbing was conducted after girls were interviewed face-to-face by trained nurses on symptoms. The prevalence of girls with symptoms and laboratory-confirmed infections, and the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of symptoms compared with laboratory results, were calculated. Results Of 515 girls agreeing to self-swab, 510 answered symptom questions. A quarter (24%) reported one or more symptoms; most commonly vaginal discharge (11%), pain (9%) or itching (4%). Laboratory tests confirmed 28% of girls had one or more RTI. Prevalence rose with age; among girls aged 16–17 years, 33% had infections. Bacterial vaginosis was the most common (18%), followed by Candida albicans (9%), Chlamydia trachomatis (3%), Trichomonas vaginalis (3%) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (1%). Reported symptoms had a low sensitivity and positive predictive value. Three-quarters of girls with bacterial vaginosis and C. albicans, and 50% with T. vaginalis were asymptomatic. Conclusions There is a high prevalence of adolescent schoolgirls with RTI in rural Kenya. Public efforts are required to identify and treat infections among girls to reduce longer-term sequelae but poor reliability of symptom reporting minimises utility of symptom-based diagnosis in this population. Trial registration number ISRCTN17486946.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Kerubo
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kayla F Laserson
- Division of Global Health Protection, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, USA
| | - Newton Otecko
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Collins Odhiambo
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kelvin O Oruko
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Ashley Bauman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - John Vulule
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Clement Zeh
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Penelope A Phillips-Howard
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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50
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Oruko K, Nyothach E, Zielinski-Gutierrez E, Mason L, Alexander K, Vulule J, Laserson KF, Phillips-Howard PA. 'He is the one who is providing you with everything so whatever he says is what you do': A Qualitative Study on Factors Affecting Secondary Schoolgirls' Dropout in Rural Western Kenya. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144321. [PMID: 26636771 PMCID: PMC4670214 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Education is an effective way to improve girls’ self-worth, health, and productivity; however there remains a gender gap between girls’ and boys’ completion of school. The literature around factors influencing girls’ decision to stay in school is limited. Seven focus group discussions took place among 79 girls in forms 2 to 4 at secondary schools in rural western Kenya, to examine their views on why girls absent themselves or dropout from school. Data were analysed thematically. Lack of resources, sexual relationships with boyfriends, and menstrual care problems were reported to lead directly to dropout or school absence. These were tied to girls increased vulnerability to pregnancy, poor performance in school, and punishments, which further increase school absence and risk of dropout. Poverty, unmet essential needs, coercive sexual relationships, and an inequitable school environment collude to counter girls’ resolve to complete their schooling. Lack of resources drive girls to have sex with boyfriends or men who provide them with essentials their family cannot afford, such as sanitary pads and transport to school. While these improve quality of their school life, this dynamic increases their exposure to sexual risk, pregnancy, punishment, and dropout. Evaluation of interventions to ameliorate these challenges is warranted, including provision of pocket money to address their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelvin Oruko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Emily Zielinski-Gutierrez
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Studies, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kelly Alexander
- Department of Clinical Studies, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - John Vulule
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kayla F. Laserson
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Penelope A. Phillips-Howard
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
- Department of Clinical Studies, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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