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Tembo M, Simms V, Weiss HA, Bandason T, Redzo N, Larsson L, Dauya E, Nzanza T, Ishumael P, Gweshe N, Nyamwanza R, Ndlovu P, Bernays S, Chikwari CD, Mavodza CV, Renju J, Francis SC, Ferrand RA, Mackworth-Young C. High uptake of menstrual health information, products and analgesics within an integrated sexual reproductive health service for young people in Zimbabwe. Reprod Health 2024; 21:56. [PMID: 38649934 PMCID: PMC11036648 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-024-01789-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite being integral to women's well-being, achieving good menstrual health (MH) remains a challenge. This study examined MH services uptake (including information, analgesics, and a choice of MH products - the menstrual cup and reusable pads) and sustained use of MH products within an integrated sexual and reproductive health intervention for young people in Zimbabwe. METHODS This mixed-methods study was nested within a cluster randomised trial of integrated sexual and reproductive health services (CHIEDZA) for youth in three provinces (Harare, Mashonaland East, and Bulawayo). The study collected qualitative and quantitative data from 27,725 female clients aged 16-24 years, who accessed CHIEDZA from April 2019 - March 2022. Using a biometric (fingerprint recognition) identification system, known as SIMPRINTS, uptake of MH information, products, and analgesics and other services was tracked for each client. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to investigate MH service uptake and product choice and use over time, and the factors associated with these outcomes. Thematic analysis of focus group discussions and interviews were used to further explore providers' and participants' experiences of the MH service and CHIEDZA intervention. RESULTS Overall, 36,991 clients accessed CHIEDZA of whom 27,725 (75%) were female. Almost all (n = 26,448; 95.4%) took up the MH service at least once: 25433 took up an MH product with the majority (23,346; 92.8%) choosing reusable pads. The uptake of cups varied across province with Bulawayo province having the highest uptake (13.4%). Clients aged 20-24 years old were more likely to choose cups than reusable pads compared with those aged 16-19 years (9.4% vs 6.0%; p < 0.001). Over the implementation period, 300/1819 (16.5%) of clients swapped from the menstrual cup to reusable pads and 83/23346 (0.4%) swapped from reusable pads to the menstrual cup. Provision of the MH service encouraged uptake of other important SRH services. Qualitative findings highlighted the provision of free integrated SRH and MH services that included a choice of MH products and analgesics in a youth-friendly environment were key to high uptake and overall female engagement with SRH services. CONCLUSIONS High uptake demonstrates how the MH service provided much needed access to MH products and information. Integration of MH within an SRH intervention proved central to young women accessing other SRH services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandikudza Tembo
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe.
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Victoria Simms
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Helen A Weiss
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nicol Redzo
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Leyla Larsson
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Ethel Dauya
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tafadzwa Nzanza
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Pauline Ishumael
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nancy Gweshe
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rangarirai Nyamwanza
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Precious Ndlovu
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sarah Bernays
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Constancia Vimbayi Mavodza
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jenny Renju
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Suzanna C Francis
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rashida A Ferrand
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Constance Mackworth-Young
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Chandwe K, Bwakura-Dangarembizi M, Amadi B, Tawodzera G, Ngosa D, Dzikiti A, Chulu N, Makuyana R, Zyambo K, Mutasa K, Mulenga C, Besa E, Sturgeon JP, Mudzingwa S, Simunyola B, Kazhila L, Zyambo M, Sonkwe H, Mutasa B, Chipunza M, Sauramba V, Langhaug L, Mudenda V, Murch SH, Hill S, Playford RJ, VanBuskirk K, Prendergast AJ, Kelly P. Malnutrition enteropathy in Zambian and Zimbabwean children with severe acute malnutrition: A multi-arm randomized phase II trial. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2910. [PMID: 38632262 PMCID: PMC11024201 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45528-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Malnutrition underlies almost half of all child deaths globally. Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) carries unacceptable mortality, particularly if accompanied by infection or medical complications, including enteropathy. We evaluated four interventions for malnutrition enteropathy in a multi-centre phase II multi-arm trial in Zambia and Zimbabwe and completed in 2021. The purpose of this trial was to identify therapies which could be taken forward into phase III trials. Children of either sex were eligible for inclusion if aged 6-59 months and hospitalised with SAM (using WHO definitions: WLZ <-3, and/or MUAC <11.5 cm, and/or bilateral pedal oedema), with written, informed consent from the primary caregiver. We randomised 125 children hospitalised with complicated SAM to 14 days treatment with (i) bovine colostrum (n = 25), (ii) N-acetyl glucosamine (n = 24), (iii) subcutaneous teduglutide (n = 26), (iv) budesonide (n = 25) or (v) standard care only (n = 25). The primary endpoint was a composite of faecal biomarkers (myeloperoxidase, neopterin, α1-antitrypsin). Laboratory assessments, but not treatments, were blinded. Per-protocol analysis used ANCOVA, adjusted for baseline biomarker value, sex, oedema, HIV status, diarrhoea, weight-for-length Z-score, and study site, with pre-specified significance of P < 0.10. Of 143 children screened, 125 were randomised. Teduglutide reduced the primary endpoint of biomarkers of mucosal damage (effect size -0.89 (90% CI: -1.69,-0.10) P = 0.07), while colostrum (-0.58 (-1.4, 0.23) P = 0.24), N-acetyl glucosamine (-0.20 (-1.01, 0.60) P = 0.67), and budesonide (-0.50 (-1.33, 0.33) P = 0.32) had no significant effect. All interventions proved safe. This work suggests that treatment of enteropathy may be beneficial in children with complicated malnutrition. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier NCT03716115.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanta Chandwe
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mutsa Bwakura-Dangarembizi
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Parirenyatwa Hospital, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Beatrice Amadi
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Gertrude Tawodzera
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Deophine Ngosa
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Anesu Dzikiti
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nivea Chulu
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Robert Makuyana
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Kanekwa Zyambo
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kuda Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Chola Mulenga
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ellen Besa
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jonathan P Sturgeon
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Newark Street, London, UK
| | - Shepherd Mudzingwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Bwalya Simunyola
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Lydia Kazhila
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Masuzyo Zyambo
- Department of Anaesthesia, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Hazel Sonkwe
- Department of Anaesthesia, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Batsirai Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Miyoba Chipunza
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Virginia Sauramba
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Lisa Langhaug
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Victor Mudenda
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Susan Hill
- Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Raymond J Playford
- University of West London, Ealing, London, UK
- University College Cork, College Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Kelley VanBuskirk
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Andrew J Prendergast
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, McLaughlin Avenue, Meyrick Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Newark Street, London, UK
| | - Paul Kelly
- Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia.
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Newark Street, London, UK.
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Tinago CB, Frongillo EA, Warren AM, Chitiyo V, Jackson TN, Cifarelli AK, Fyalkowski S, Pauline V. Testing the Effectiveness of a Community-Based Peer Support Intervention to Mitigate Social Isolation and Stigma of Adolescent Motherhood in Zimbabwe. Matern Child Health J 2024; 28:657-666. [PMID: 37957412 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03821-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Social isolation and stigma contribute to poor mental health outcomes. Adolescent mothers in Zimbabwe often experience isolation and stigma, lacking social support and resources to navigate motherhood. The study tested the effectiveness of a community-based peer support intervention to mitigate social isolation and stigma of adolescent motherhood in Harare, Zimbabwe. METHODS Community health workers (n = 12) and peer educators (n = 12) in the intervention arm were recruited and trained on co-facilitating peer support groups. Adolescent mothers aged 15-18 years from two low-income high-density communities in Harare were recruited, using a quasi-experimental design. The intervention arm (n = 104) participated in the peer support groups and both arms completed sociodemographic, base-, mid-, and end-line surveys (control arm n = 79). Peer support groups (12 groups with 6-12 participants in each) met in-person twice a month and completed 12 sessions from May to August 2019 addressing participant-identified topics such as income generation and depression. WhatsApp Messenger was used for training and implementation support. Key community stakeholders discussed project progress and recommendations to improve adolescent mothers' health. Data were analyzed using Stata 15. RESULTS The intervention arm reported lower depressive symptoms and common mental disorders and higher overall, family, friends, and significant-other support, compared to control. The intervention arm felt more engaged with peers, knew who and where to turn to for help, and had coping, parenting and communication strategies to manage life challenges. CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE The intervention mitigated social isolation and stigma and thereby improved mental health and social support among adolescent mothers in Harare. Trial Registration This trial is registered at Clinical Trials.gov, NCT05213182 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05213182 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiwoneso B Tinago
- Department of Public Health Sciences, West Chester University of Pennsylvania, 155 University Avenue, West Chester, PA, 19383, USA.
| | - Edward A Frongillo
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Andrea M Warren
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Vivian Chitiyo
- The Organization for Public Health Interventions and Development (OPHID), 20 Cork Road, Belgravia, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tiara N Jackson
- NORC at the University of Chicago, 4350 East-West Highway, 8th Floor, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ashley K Cifarelli
- Department of Public Health Sciences, West Chester University of Pennsylvania, 155 University Avenue, West Chester, PA, 19383, USA
| | - Shannon Fyalkowski
- Department of Public Health Sciences, West Chester University of Pennsylvania, 155 University Avenue, West Chester, PA, 19383, USA
| | - Victoria Pauline
- Department of Public Health Sciences, West Chester University of Pennsylvania, 155 University Avenue, West Chester, PA, 19383, USA
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Chagwena DT, Fernando S, Tavengwa NV, Sithole S, Nyachowe C, Njovo H, Datta K, Brown T, Humphrey JH, Prendergast AJ, Smith LE. Formulation and acceptability of local nutrient-dense foods for young children: A formative study for the Child Health, Agriculture and Integrated Nutrition (CHAIN) Trial in rural Zimbabwe. Matern Child Nutr 2024; 20:e13605. [PMID: 38093409 PMCID: PMC10981484 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13605] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Stunting affects almost one-quarter of children globally, leading to reduced human capacity and increased long-term risk of chronic disease. Despite intensive infant and young child feeding (IYCF) interventions, many children do not meet their requirements for essential nutrients. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of implementing an IYCF intervention utilizing nutrient-dense powders from egg, biofortified sugar beans and Moringa oleifera leaf in rural Zimbabwe. A mixed-methods formative study was conducted comprising the following: (i) a recipe formulation trial, (ii) trials of improved practices to assess acceptability of the intervention, and (iii) a participatory message formulation process to develop counselling modules for the IYCF-plus intervention. Twenty-seven mother-baby pairs were recruited between November 2019 and April 2020. Key domains affecting IYCF practices that emerged were time, emotional and physical space, cultural and religious beliefs, indigenous knowledge systems and gender dynamics. Household observations and sensory evaluation indicated high acceptability of the new ingredients. Recipe formulation and participatory message formulation by participants instilled community ownership and served to demystify existing misconceptions about the new food products. Families noted the potential for intervention sustainability because the foods could be grown locally. Supplementing complementary foods with nutrient-dense local food ingredients as powders has the potential to sustainably address nutrient-gaps in the diets of young children living in rural lower- and middle-income countries. Comprehensive IYCF counselling utilizing a gender-lens approach, family support and indigenous knowledge systems or resources are key elements to support positive behaviour change in complementary feeding interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dexter T. Chagwena
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health ResearchHarareZimbabwe
- Ministry of Health and Child CareHarareZimbabwe
- School of GeographyQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Shamiso Fernando
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health ResearchHarareZimbabwe
| | - Naume V. Tavengwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health ResearchHarareZimbabwe
| | | | | | | | - Kavita Datta
- School of GeographyQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Tim Brown
- School of GeographyQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Jean H. Humphrey
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health ResearchHarareZimbabwe
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Andrew J. Prendergast
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health ResearchHarareZimbabwe
- School of GeographyQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Laura E. Smith
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health ResearchHarareZimbabwe
- Department of Public and Ecosystem HealthCornell UniversityIthacaNew YorkUSA
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KOUAMOU V, WASHAYA T, MAPANGISANA T, NDHLOVU CE, MANASA J. Virological, weight, and drug resistance outcomes among patients initiating a dolutegravir-based first-line antiretroviral therapy regimen in Zimbabwe. AIDS 2024; 38:689-696. [PMID: 38227596 PMCID: PMC10939877 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003830] [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] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dolutegravir (DTG)-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) is being scaled up in Africa. However, clinical experience with DTG and patterns of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) are sparse in Zimbabwe. We assessed virological, weight, and HIVDR outcomes among individuals initiating on a DTG-based ART. DESIGN We conducted a prospective cohort study among HIV-infected adult (≥18 years old) individuals attending care at Parirenyatwa hospital, Harare, Zimbabwe between October 2021 and April 2023. METHODS Viral load and weight were assessed at both baseline and follow-up (≥24weeks) visits. HIVDR genotyping was performed by Sanger sequencing among participants with virological failure (viral load ≥1000 copies/ml) at follow-up visit. Factors associated with weight gain were determined using logistic regression analysis on STATA 17.0. RESULTS One hundred and seventy-two participants were enrolled in the study. The median [interquartile range (IQR) age was 39 (29-48)] years whilst the median (IQR) CD4 + cell count and log 10 viral load at enrolment was 175 (58-328) cells/μl and 5.41 (4.80-5.74), respectively. After a median (IQR) duration of 27 (25-30) weeks on DTG, of the 131 participants with follow-up viral load data available, 129 (98%) had viral load less than 1000 copies/ml and among the 2 (2%) participants with viral load at least 1000 copies/ml, no emergent HIVDR was detected. We observed a significant increase in weight among the participants. The average weight gain was 5.25 kgs ( P < 0.0001). Baseline CD4 + cell count at least 200 cells/μl was significantly associated with at a smaller weight gain [odds ratio (OR) = 0.26; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.12-0.58, P = 0.001]. CONCLUSION We found high virological suppression and an increased weight among people initiating on DTG in a resource-limited setting. Encouragingly, HIVDR to DTG remains rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinie KOUAMOU
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tendai WASHAYA
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Chiratidzo Ellen NDHLOVU
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Justen MANASA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Mupfiga UN, Mutanga O, Dube T. National-scale spatiotemporal patterns of vegetation fire occurrences using MODIS satellite data. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297309. [PMID: 38547131 PMCID: PMC10977707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297309] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
As the risk of climate change increases, robust fire monitoring methods become critical for fire management purposes. National-scale spatiotemporal patterns of the fires and how they relate to vegetation and environmental conditions are not well understood in Zimbabwe. This paper presents a spatially explicit method combining satellite data and spatial statistics in detecting spatiotemporal patterns of fires in Zimbabwe. The Emerging Hot Spot Analysis method was utilized to detect statistically significant spatiotemporal patterns of fire occurrence between the years 2002 and 2021. Statistical analysis was done to determine the association between the spatiotemporal patterns and some environmental variables such as topography, land cover, land use, ecoregions and precipitation. The highest number of fires occurred in September, coinciding with Zimbabwe's observed fire season. The number of fires significantly varied among seasons, with the hot and dry season (August to October) recording the highest fire counts. Additionally, although June, July and November are not part of the official fire season in Zimbabwe, the fire counts recorded for these months were relatively high. This new information has therefore shown the need for revision of the fire season in Zimbabwe. The northern regions were characterized by persistent, oscillating, diminishing and historical spatiotemporal fire hotspots. Agroecological regions IIa and IIb and the Southern Miombo bushveld ecoregion were the most fire-prone areas. The research findings also revealed new critical information about the spatiotemporal fire patterns in various terrestrial ecoregions, land cover, land use, precipitation and topography and highlighted potential areas for effective fire management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upenyu Naume Mupfiga
- Discipline of Geography, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Department of Geography, Environmental Sustainability and Resilience Building, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - Onisimo Mutanga
- Discipline of Geography, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Timothy Dube
- Department of Earth Sciences, Institute of Water Studies, The University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Mhlanga NL, Netangaheni TR. Interventions for Type 2 Diabetes reduction among older people living with HIV in Harare. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2024; 66:e1-e12. [PMID: 38572876 PMCID: PMC11019056 DOI: 10.4102/safp.v66i1.5827] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interventions for Type 2 Diabetes reduction among older people aged more than 50 years living with HIV (PLWH) are pertinent as they face excess risks amid a growing population of ageing PLWH. AIM To describe interventions for Type 2 Diabetes reduction among older people living with HIV in Harare Urban DistrictSetting: The study was conducted in a low socio-economic setting from five primary health care clinics in Harare urban District. METHODS A qualitative multi-method approach was applied using an exploratory descriptive design and an integrative review literature. The exploratory descriptive study collected data from two purposively selected samples; (1) older PLWH and (2) nurses. Whittemore and Knafl's framework was used for the integrative literature review with articles from 2013 to 2023 selected. Data source triangulation was applied using Braun and Clark's content analysis framework. Ethical approval was obtained (14056739_CREC_CHS_2022). RESULTS 23 older PLWH with mean age, 62 years, 9 nurses with an average of 6 years' experience and 12 articles comprised the three data sources. Key themes that emerged were that, screening should include; assessment from a younger age; assessment of HIV and ART-specific risks; diagnostic testing of Type 2 diabetes tests at ART initiation and routinely. Health education should provide information on adequate physical activity parameters and increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Metformin may be considered as a pharmacological intervention where lifestyle interventions fail. CONCLUSION The proposed interventions suggest measures to reduce Type 2 Diabetes and mitigate excess risks faced by older PLWH.Contribution: Improved screening, health education and pharmacological interventions for older PLWH in primary health care settings enable Type 2 Diabetes reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nongiwe L Mhlanga
- Department of Health Studies, College of Human Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria.
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Mpofu L, Ganga-Limando M. The lived experiences of HIV-positive women in rural Zimbabwe: A qualitative focus group study. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2024; 66:e1-e8. [PMID: 38572873 PMCID: PMC11019049 DOI: 10.4102/safp.v66i1.5823] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study explored and described the meaning attached to the lived experiences of women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the rural context of Zimbabwe. Stigma and discrimination negatively impact one's ability to perform the expected social roles, the quality of life, and the efforts to prevent the spread of HIV and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and reduce HIV-related mortality. Thus, the study aims to understand the meaning attached to the lived experiences of HIV-positive women living in rural areas or villages of Matabeleland South province in Zimbabwe. METHODS The study used a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory design. Four focus group discussions were conducted with 24 HIV-positive rural women living in Matabeleland South province, Zimbabwe. An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was adopted to explore and describe the meaning attached to the lived experiences of women living with HIV. RESULTS Two interconnected themes were identified in the analysis with their sub-themes. These were: (1) struggle for social belonging, with subthemes - loss of social belonging and reduced access to community-based empowerment opportunities and (2) struggle for maintaining the quality of life with subthemes - lack of need-based community healthcare and food insecurity. CONCLUSION Being a woman living with HIV in rural Zimbabwe means a perpetual struggle to maintain one's humanness and quality of life.Contribution: This study's results will support the efforts of the Zimbabwean government to improve the quality of life of HIV-positive women living in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limkile Mpofu
- Department of Health Studies, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria.
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Hui A, Chimhini G, Saungweme M, Kaisi D, Munetsi E, Mujuru HA, Darmstadt GL. Postnatal care and acceptability of emollient therapy in very low birthweight infants in Harare, Zimbabwe: a qualitative analysis. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:187. [PMID: 38493088 PMCID: PMC10943868 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-024-04661-x] [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: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm birth (birth before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy) is the leading cause of neonatal and child under-five mortality globally, both of which are highest regionally in sub-Saharan Africa. The skin barrier plays a critical role in neonatal health and increasing evidence supports the use of topical emollient therapy to promote postnatal growth and reduce hospital-acquired infections in preterm infants. The World Health Organization (WHO) currently recommends emollient therapy in preterm or low birthweight infants globally but calls for further research on impacts of emollient use, especially in Africa. Little is known about postnatal skincare practices and the tradition of oil massage across sub-Saharan Africa. Further documentation is necessary to understand the context for future emollient intervention trials. METHODS 61 semi-structured interviews with mothers who just delivered preterm or term infants and 4 focus group discussions (32 participants) with physician and nurse providers of newborn care were conducted at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital (SMCH), in Harare, Zimbabwe. SMCH is the principal public-sector tertiary care hospital for newborn infants in the northern part of the country. Mothers and healthcare professionals were questioned about newborn care at the hospital, current neonatal skincare and bathing practices, and the community's receptivity to a future emollient therapy clinical trial. RESULTS Postnatal skincare is centrally important to Zimbabwean communities and petroleum jelly application is nearly universal. The use of cooking oil and other natural oils on infants is also part of traditional customs. The primary needs and desires of mothers who have just given birth to preterm infants are having greater agency in their children's care and financial support in purchasing prescribed medications while at the hospital. Community receptivity to emollient therapy as a cost-effective treatment is high, particularly if mothers are trained to assist with the intervention. CONCLUSION Emollient therapy will likely be well-received by communities in and around Harare because of its accordance with current skincare practices and perceptions; however, cultural norms and the experiences of new mothers who have given birth at a facility highlight challenges and considerations for future clinical trial execution. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05461404.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa Hui
- Human Biology Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gwendoline Chimhini
- Child and Adolescent Health Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Margaret Saungweme
- Child and Adolescent Health Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Dorah Kaisi
- Child and Adolescent Health Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Elisabeth Munetsi
- Child and Adolescent Health Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hilda A Mujuru
- Child and Adolescent Health Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Gary L Darmstadt
- Prematurity Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Maphosa V. An overview of cybersecurity in Zimbabwe's financial services sector. F1000Res 2024; 12:1251. [PMID: 38559360 PMCID: PMC10979128 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.132823.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background As nations, businesses, and individuals rely on the Internet for everyday use, so are cybercriminals manipulating systems to access information illegally and disrupting services for financial gain. The global cost of cybercrime eclipsed one trillion US Dollars in 2020, with Africa losing US $3.5 billion. Methods A quantitative research methodology was adopted to investigate factors affecting cybercrime in Zimbabwean financial institutions. The study focused on the technical aspects of cybersecurity. Data were collected from July 2022 to October 2022, targeting technology experts in the financial services sector. Participants were recruited from 13 institutions to rank cybersecurity constructs, frameworks, and challenges associated with cybersecurity. Data was collected using a questionnaire distributed to participants. Descriptive statistics were used to extract meanings from the responses that measure mean and standard deviation. Results Network and data security were the most highly ranked cybersecurity constructs, while physical security was the least. The top three barriers are increasing sophistication of threats, limited skills and emerging technologies, while lack of executive support was the least. The top frameworks used are the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) and Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT), while a fifth is yet to adopt cybercrime frameworks. Conclusions The study proposes that financial institutions establish a cybersecurity culture to fight cybercrime, addressing cybersecurity barriers and following best practices. Financial institutions should invest in cybersecurity technologies, train security specialists, and employ a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). The study's small sample may affect the generalisability of the results. Financial institutions should implement strategies to raise awareness and collaborate with institutions to train cybersecurity security specialists to close the skills gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vusumuzi Maphosa
- Department of Information and Communication Technology Services, National University Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Bulawayo, 263, Zimbabwe
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11
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Friedland BA, Mgodi NM, Palanee-Phillips T, Mathur S, Plagianos MG, Bruce IV, Lansiaux M, Murombedzi C, Musara P, Dandadzi A, Reddy K, Ndlovu N, Zulu SK, Shale LR, Zieman B, Haddad LB. Assessing the acceptability of, adherence to and preference for a dual prevention pill (DPP) for HIV and pregnancy prevention compared to oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and oral contraception taken separately: protocols for two randomised, controlled, cross-over studies in South Africa and Zimbabwe. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e075381. [PMID: 38479746 PMCID: PMC10936506 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV prevention method; however, uptake and persistence have been low among southern African women. A dual prevention pill (DPP) that combines PrEP with oral contraception (OC) may increase PrEP use and better meet women's sexual and reproductive health needs. We will gauge the DPP's acceptability in two cross-over clinical trials. METHODS AND ANALYSIS PC952 (Zimbabwe) and PC953 (South Africa) will compare acceptability, adherence and preference for an over-encapsulated DPP versus PrEP and OCs taken separately. HIV-negative, non-pregnant cisgender females in Johannesburg, South Africa (n=96, 16-40 years) and Harare, Zimbabwe (n=30, 16-24 years) will be randomised 1:1 to the order of regimens-DPP or two separate tablets-each used for three 28-day cycles, followed by a 6-month choice period in South Africa. Monthly clinic visits include HIV and pregnancy testing; safety assessments and risk reduction and adherence counselling. We will assess adherence (monthly) based on tenofovir diphosphate drug levels in dried blood spots and by self-report. We will evaluate acceptability (monthly) and preference (end of cross-over) via computer-assisted self-interviewing and in-depth interviews with a subset of participants. Data collection started in September 2022 and ended in January 2024. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION PC952 was approved by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Medical Research Council, Research Council and Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe; the Chitungwiza City Health Ethics Committee; and the Joint Research Ethics Committee for the University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals. PC953 was approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority and the University of the Witwatersrand's Human Research Ethics Committee. The Population Council IRB approved both studies. We will disseminate results in open-access journals, clinical trials registries, and at local and international meetings and conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS NCT04778514, NCT04778527.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nyaradzo M Mgodi
- University of Zimbabwe - Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
- University of Washington, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | | | - Irene V Bruce
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research, New York, New York, USA
| | - Maud Lansiaux
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Petina Musara
- University of Zimbabwe - Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Adlight Dandadzi
- University of Zimbabwe - Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Krishnaveni Reddy
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nkosiphile Ndlovu
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sihle K Zulu
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lerato R Shale
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Brady Zieman
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lisa B Haddad
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research, New York, New York, USA
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Chinene B, Mudadi LS. Emotional intelligence of radiography students in a low resource setting: A cross-sectional survey. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2024; 55:67-73. [PMID: 38160093 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2023.12.005] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding noncognitive traits like emotional intelligence (EI) is valuable for radiography students, academics, practitioners, and educators. It helps them become aware of how these traits can impact their training, placements, and careers. This study aimed to evaluate the EI of radiography students at a tertiary institute in Harare, Zimbabwe. METHODS A quantitative cross-sectional study using a validated Trait EI questionnaire was conducted on students at a tertiary institute in Harare, Zimbabwe. Student t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Spearman's rho were employed for data analysis. RESULTS A total of 84 radiography students were enrolled in this study. The students had relatively lower EI scores (4.31 +/-0.49) as compared to most of their global counterparts. A significant positive monotonic relationship was identified between age and self-control factor (Spearman's rho = 0.22, p = 0.04). There were no statistically significant differences in mean scores for the global and the four EI factors when stratified by gender, even though males had slightly higher scores than females in all but the emotionality factor. There were no significant differences in the mean scores of the global as well as the four factors by year of study. CONCLUSION Deliberate, time-intensive curriculum interventions are needed to improve the EI of radiography students in Zimbabwe and this trend is potentially similar to other resource-limited settings. However, more context-specific evidence is needed to formulate the best techniques for EI interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bornface Chinene
- Harare Institute of Technology, Department of Radiography, Belvedere, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Leon-Say Mudadi
- Royal Papworth Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Gumede-Moyo S, Sharma S, Gwanzura C, Nyirenda R, Mkandawire P, Chatora K, Hasen N. 'ARVs are a constant reminder of lost freedom, whereas for others, they are liberating': understanding the treatment narrative among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Malawi and Zimbabwe-a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e063138. [PMID: 38418240 PMCID: PMC10910567 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063138] [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: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the research was to understand what drives and motivates young women living with HIV in their treatment journeys, as well as their key influencers. The findings will assist in appreciating their obstacles to treatment and constructing the most effective ways to convey fresh messages to them. These insights will contribute to the messaging developed for a campaign across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily Malawi and Zimbabwe. DESIGN This was a qualitative study conducted in order to build an understanding of unknown parts of the HIV treatment journey through in-depth interviews. A hybrid approach was used to conduct thematic analysis. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Study participants were HIV-positive women, their influencers (eg, parents/partners/siblings/aunts and uncles/religious leaders, etc) and healthcare providers from a range of regions in Zimbabwe and Malawi. RESULTS A total of 26 young people living with HIV (PLHIV), 29 healthcare providers and 24 influencers such as maternal figures in the community were interviewed. Two main broad insights were drawn, that is, key needs and wider contextual factors. The key needs of young PLHIV to stay on treatment were empathy, support and emotional connection with antiretroviral therapy (ART), while the wider contextual factors impacting their treatment journeys were structural challenges and cultural reference points. Fear of shame and humiliation can also be significant barriers to disclosure and treatment. The fear predisposes the PLHIV to the need for empathy, support and connection with ART. Mental health and anxiety appear to be comorbid with HIV. Some PLHIV have a small and limited support network leading to very few people living openly with HIV. There is no 'one-size-fits-all' approach, and maximising campaign reach will likely need a multifaceted approach. CONCLUSION Currently, the relationship between nurses and PLHIV can appear to be transactional. Through learning about the community (including PLHIV), there are more chances of communicating in a way that resonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehlulekile Gumede-Moyo
- Healthcare, Ipsos MORI UK, London, UK
- Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | - Rose Nyirenda
- Ministry of Health and Population Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | | | - Nina Hasen
- HIV and TB, Population Services International, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Chirau TJ, Shirinde J, McCrindle C. Access to healthcare by undocumented Zimbabwean migrants in post-apartheid South Africa. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2024; 16:e1-e8. [PMID: 38426779 PMCID: PMC10913174 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v16i1.4126] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zimbabwean undocumented migrants rely on the South African public health care system for treatment of non-communicable and communicable diseases, surgery and medical emergency services. A gap remains to understand undocumented migrant experiences at a time when accessing public healthcare has been topical in South Africa. AIM This article aimed to describe and understand the experiences, challenges and health-seeking alternatives of undocumented Zimbabwean migrants in accessing healthcare services in Nellmapius in Pretoria. SETTING The study was conducted at Nellmapius in Pretoria. METHODS A qualitative descriptive research design was used. Structured interviews with 13 undocumented migrants were conducted by applying purposive and snowballing sampling techniques. The data were thematically analysed. RESULTS Migrants reported that the attitudes by healthcare officials suggest unwillingness to provide services to undocumented migrants, aggravating their vulnerability and perennial illness. Migrants faced challenges of discrimination, a lack of professional service delivery, a lack of financial capacity to pay for services and a lack of documentation evoking health-seeking alternatives. CONCLUSION Migrants continue to face challenges while accessing subsidised health care. This study confirms that medical xenophobia is generally present in the public health care centres, at least for the sampled undocumented Zimbabwean migrants. The majority of undocumented migrants cannot afford to pay for private healthcare.Contribution: The findings of this study inform national, provincial and local healthcare facilities to be ethical and provide dignified quality healthcare to undocumented migrants in line with international practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takunda J Chirau
- WITS School of Governance, Centre for Learning on Evaluation and Results Anglophone Africa, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
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Mashaah T, Gomo E, Maradzika JC, Madziyire MG, January J. Experiences of traditional health practitioners in the management of female infertility in Harare urban areas: A qualitative study. Afr J Reprod Health 2024; 28:110-122. [PMID: 38308559 DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2024/v28i1.11] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Female infertility is a health and social problem that traditional health practitioners (THPs) have been managing in African communities. This study explored the experiences of THPs in the management of female infertility, specifically focusing on their understanding, diagnosis, and treatment methods for female infertility. This was a qualitative study targeting six THPs in Harare urban areas registered with the Traditional Medical Practitioners Council (TMPC) in Zimbabwe. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines were followed in the description of the study design, analysis and presentation of findings. The findings revealed that the etiology of female infertility was attributed to biomedical, lifestyle, spiritual, and male factors. Management of infertility depended on the type of THP. Spirit mediums relied on divination and dreams to diagnose and treat female infertility. Herbalists focused on the physical evidence provided by the client through history taking. THPs had a client referral system within their TMPC network. All THPs ultimately used medicinal plants for treating female infertility. THPs play an important role in the management of female infertility. Understanding their contributions to the management of female infertility provides an opportunity to obtain insight into their practices, thus identifying areas that responsible Ministries can use to strengthen traditional health care systems and ultimately improve reproductive health care for women in African communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thokozile Mashaah
- Department of Global Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe
| | - Exnevia Gomo
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostic and Investigative Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe
| | - Julita C Maradzika
- Department of Global Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe
- Department of Health Sciences, Africa University
| | - Mugove G Madziyire
- Department of Child, Adolescent and Women's Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe
| | - James January
- Department of Global Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Malawi
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Jerie S, Shabani T, Mudyazhezha OC, Shabani T. A review towards developing a hierarchical model for sustainable hospital solid waste management in rural areas of Zimbabwe. Environ Monit Assess 2024; 196:308. [PMID: 38407739 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12488-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Management of solid waste from rural hospitals is amongst problems affecting Zimbabwe due to diseases, population, and hospital increase. Solid waste from rural hospitals is receiving little attention translating to environmental health problems. Therefore, 101 secondary sources were used to write a paper aiming to proffer a hierarchical model to achieve sustainable solid waste management at rural hospitals. Rural hospitals' solid waste encompasses electronic waste, sharps, pharmaceutical, pathological, radioactive, chemical, infectious, and general waste. General solid waste from rural hospitals is between 77.35 and 79% whilst hazardous waste is between 21 and 22.65%. Solid waste increase add burden to nearly incapacitated rural hospitals. Rural hospital solid waste management processes include storage, transportation, treatment methods like autoclaving and chlorination, waste reduction alternatives, and disposal. Disposal strategies involve open pits, open burning, dumping, and incineration. Rural hospital solid waste management is guided by legislation, policies, guidelines, and conventions. Effectiveness of legal framework is limited by economic and socio-political problems. Rural hospital solid waste management remain inappropriate causing environmental health risks. Developed hierarchical model can narrow the route to attain sustainable management of rural hospitals' solid waste. Proposed hierarchical model consists of five-layered strategies and acted as a guide for identifying and ranking approaches to manage rural hospitals' solid waste. Additionally, Zimbabwean government, Environmental Management Agency and Ministry of Health is recommended to collaborate to provide sufficient resources to rural hospitals whilst enforcing legal framework. Integration of all hierarchical model's elements is essential whereas all-stakeholder involvement and solid waste minimisation approaches are significant at rural hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Jerie
- Department of Geography, Environmental Sustainability and Resilience, Midlands State University, Building P. Bag, 9055, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - Takunda Shabani
- Department of Geography, Environmental Sustainability and Resilience, Midlands State University, Building P. Bag, 9055, Gweru, Zimbabwe.
| | - Olivia C Mudyazhezha
- Department of Geography, Environmental Sustainability and Resilience, Midlands State University, Building P. Bag, 9055, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - Tapiwa Shabani
- Department of Geography, Environmental Sustainability and Resilience, Midlands State University, Building P. Bag, 9055, Gweru, Zimbabwe
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Shamu T, Egger M, Mudzviti T, Chimbetete C, Manasa J, Anderegg N. Virologic outcomes on dolutegravir-, atazanavir-, or efavirenz-based ART in urban Zimbabwe: A longitudinal study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0293162. [PMID: 38394297 PMCID: PMC10890724 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293162] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
There are few data from sub-Saharan Africa on the virological outcomes associated with second-line ART based on protease inhibitors or dolutegravir (DTG). We compared viral load (VL) suppression among people living with HIV (PLWH) on atazanavir (ATV/r)- or DTG-based second-line ART with PLWH on efavirenz (EFV)-based first-line ART. We analyzed data from the electronic medical records system of Newlands Clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe. We included individuals aged ≥12 years when commencing first-line EFV-based ART or switching to second-line DTG- or ATV/r-based ART with ≥24 weeks follow-up after start or switch. We computed suppression rates (HIV VL <50 copies/mL) at weeks 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 and estimated the probability of VL suppression by treatment regimen, time since start/switch of ART, sex, age, and CD4 cell count (at start/switch) using logistic regression in a Bayesian framework. We included 7013 VL measurements of 1049 PLWH (61% female) initiating first-line ART and 1114 PLWH (58% female) switching to second-line ART. Among those switching, 872 (78.3%) were switched to ATV/r and 242 (21.7%) to DTG. VL suppression was lower in second-line ART than first-line ART, except at week 12, when those on DTG showed higher suppression than those on EFV (aOR 2.10, 95%-credible interval [CrI] 1.48-3.00) and ATV/r-based regimens (aOR 1.87, 95%-CrI 1.32-2.71). For follow-up times exceeding 24 weeks however, first-line participants demonstrated significantly higher VL suppression than second-line, with no evidence for a difference between DTG and ATV/r. Notably, from week 48 onward, VL suppression seemed to stabilize across all regimen groups, with an estimated 89.1% (95% CrI 86.9-90.9%) VL suppression in EFV, 74.5% (95%-CrI 68.0-80.7%) in DTG, and 72.9% (95%-CrI 69.5-76.1%) in ATV/r at week 48, showing little change for longer follow-up times. Virologic monitoring and adherence support remain essential even in the DTG era to prevent second-line treatment failure in settings with limited treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tinei Shamu
- Newlands Clinic, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Egger
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Tinashe Mudzviti
- Newlands Clinic, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Justen Manasa
- Innovation Hub, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nanina Anderegg
- Newlands Clinic, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Muvengwi J, Ndagurwa HGT, Witkowski ETF, Mbiba M. Woody species composition, diversity, and ecosystem services of yards along an urban socioeconomic gradient. Sci Total Environ 2024; 912:168976. [PMID: 38036145 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Woody plants offer a wide range of valuable ecosystem services, but their distribution across socioeconomic gradients in urban landscapes remains poorly understood. Thus, we explored the effect of socioeconomic and legacy factors on plant species richness and phylogenetic diversity, and the motivations for growing and keeping certain species. We sampled a total of 300 households across a socioeconomic gradient in the city of Harare, Zimbabwe, in high-, medium- and low-density areas, representing low to high wealth strata. Trees were mostly grown for ornamental purpose in the rich (low-density) suburbs and utilitarian purposes in the poorer medium to high-density areas. However, trees were also grown with similar proportion for shade across the socioeconomic gradient. Proportion of medicinal and fruit trees increased with household density, while wind break trees were more common in low-density suburbs. Exotic species exhibited greater species richness compared with indigenous species, with both combined and separate assessments of indigenous and exotic species richness revealing a significant positive association with socioeconomic and legacy factors. The composition of species displayed considerable variation along the socioeconomic gradient. Notably, in low-density environments, exotic species maintained elevated phylogenetic diversity in comparison to indigenous species. This distinction was particularly pronounced when analysed independently, revealing a significant positive correlation between exotic species richness and both property value and education level. Our study shows that residents filter specific plant species based on their socioeconomic status and that, relative to low-income households, the rich homeowners have unintentionally incorporated enough exotic species to produce novel phylogenetic diversity of woody plants in their yards. Thus, we confirm the existence of a socioeconomic gradient in terms of species richness, composition, and phylogenetic diversity. However, the imbalance in species richness and phylogenetic diversity across the socioeconomic gradient can be reduced by increased tree planting in open areas, including along streets in medium to high-density areas to improve ecosystem services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justice Muvengwi
- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Private Bag 3, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa.
| | - Hilton G T Ndagurwa
- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Private Bag 3, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa; Department of Geospatial Science, Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box AC 939, Ascot, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Ed T F Witkowski
- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Private Bag 3, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa
| | - Monicah Mbiba
- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Private Bag 3, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa
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Mangenah C, Sibanda EL, Maringwa G, Sithole J, Gudukeya S, Mugurungi O, Hatzold K, Terris-Prestholt F, Maheswaran H, Thirumurthy H, Cowan FM. Provider and female client economic costs of integrated sexual and reproductive health and HIV services in Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0291082. [PMID: 38346046 PMCID: PMC10861069 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291082] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
A retrospective facility-based costing study was undertaken to estimate the comparative cost per visit of five integrated sexual and reproductive health and HIV (human immuno-deficiency virus) services (provider perspective) within five clinic sites. These five clinics were part of four service delivery models: Non-governmental-organisation (NGO) directly managed model (Chitungwiza and New Africa House sites), NGO partner managed site (Mutare site), private-public-partnership (PPP) model (Chitungwiza Profam Clinic), and NGO directly managed outreach (operating from New Africa House site. In addition client cost exit interviews (client perspective) were conducted among 856 female clients exiting integrated services at three of the sites. Our costing approach involved first a facility bottom-up costing exercise (February to April 2015), conducted to quantify and value each resource input required to provide individual SRH and HIV services. Secondly overhead financial expenditures were allocated top-down from central office to sites and then respective integrated service based on pre-defined allocation factors derived from both the site facility observations and programme data for the prior 12 months. Costs were assessed in 2015 United States dollars (USD). Costs were assessed for HIV testing and counselling, screening and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis screening with smear microscopy, family planning, and cervical cancer screening and treatment employing visual inspection with acetic acid and cervicography and cryotherapy. Variability in costs per visit was evident across the models being highest for cervical cancer screening and cryotherapy (range: US$6.98-US$49.66). HIV testing and counselling showed least variability (range; US$10.96-US$16.28). In general the PPP model offered integrated services at the lowest unit costs whereas the partner managed site was highest. Significant client costs remain despite availability of integrated sexual and reproductive health and HIV services free of charge in our Zimbabwe study setting. Situating services closer to communities, incentives, transport reimbursements, reducing waiting times and co-location of sexual and reproductive health and HIV services may help minimise impact of client costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collin Mangenah
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Euphemia L. Sibanda
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Galven Maringwa
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Karin Hatzold
- Population Services International, Washington DC, United States of America
| | | | | | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Frances M. Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Burkhart Colorado AS, Lazzaro A, Neff CP, Nusbacher N, Boyd K, Fiorillo S, Martin C, Siebert JC, Campbell TB, Borok M, Palmer BE, Lozupone C. Differential effects of antiretroviral treatment on immunity and gut microbiome composition in people living with HIV in rural versus urban Zimbabwe. Microbiome 2024; 12:18. [PMID: 38310301 PMCID: PMC10837999 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01718-4] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The widespread availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has dramatically reduced mortality and improved life expectancy for people living with HIV (PLWH). However, even with HIV-1 suppression, chronic immune activation and elevated inflammation persist and have been linked to a pro-inflammatory gut microbiome composition and compromised intestinal barrier integrity. PLWH in urban versus rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa experience differences in environmental factors that may impact the gut microbiome and immune system, in response to ART, yet this has not previously been investigated in these groups. To address this, we measured T cell activation/exhaustion/trafficking markers, plasma inflammatory markers, and fecal microbiome composition in PLWH and healthy participants recruited from an urban clinic in the city of Harare, Zimbabwe, and a district hospital that services surrounding rural villages. PLWH were either ART naïve at baseline and sampled again after 24 weeks of first-line ART and the antibiotic cotrimoxazole or were ART-experienced at both timepoints. RESULTS Although expected reductions in the inflammatory marker IL-6, T-cell activation, and exhaustion were observed with ART-induced viral suppression, these changes were much more pronounced in the urban versus the rural area. Gut microbiome composition was the most highly altered from healthy controls in ART experienced PLWH, and characterized by both reduced alpha diversity and altered composition. However, gut microbiome composition showed a pronounced relationship with T cell activation and exhaustion in ART-naïve PLWH, suggesting a particularly significant role for the gut microbiome in disease progression in uncontrolled infection. Elevated immune exhaustion after 24 weeks of ART did correlate with both living in the rural location and a more Prevotella-rich/Bacteroides-poor microbiome type, suggesting a potential role for rural-associated microbiome differences or their co-variates in the muted improvements in immune exhaustion in the rural area. CONCLUSION Successful ART was less effective at reducing gut microbiome-associated inflammation and T cell activation in PLWH in rural versus urban Zimbabwe, suggesting that individuals on ART in rural areas of Zimbabwe may be more vulnerable to co-morbidity related to sustained immune dysfunction in treated infection. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Lazzaro
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Charles Preston Neff
- Department Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nichole Nusbacher
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kathryn Boyd
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT, England
| | - Suzanne Fiorillo
- Department Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Casey Martin
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Janet C Siebert
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Thomas B Campbell
- Department Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Margaret Borok
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Brent E Palmer
- Department Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Catherine Lozupone
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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Kanda A, Ncube EJ, Voyi K. Selection of appropriate on-site household sanitation options for rural communities of Zimbabwe - case of Mbire district, Zimbabwe. Int J Environ Health Res 2024; 34:732-744. [PMID: 36641808 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2166021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Selecting an appropriate sanitation option involves multiple stakeholders with often conflicting objectives. A multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework was developed to inform decision makers on selecting appropriate sanitation options for rural communities. Criteria established from literature were evaluated and weighted on-line by stakeholders. A performance matrix was developed by assigning weights to criteria and scoring alternatives. Selection of alternatives was based on a composite appropriateness index from a rank using the simple multi-attribute ranking technique. The framework was evaluated by verification, validation and sensitivity analysis. Five alternatives were evaluated on 14 decision criteria. The first preferred alternative was the urine diverting dry toilet (72.54) then the Blair ventilated improved pit latrine (67.10). The framework was commented as reasonable and robust. A simple and transparent MCDA framework was developed considering local conditions in a participatory manner to select appropriate alternatives for rural sanitation where a single option is encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artwell Kanda
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Esper Jacobeth Ncube
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Kuku Voyi
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Flygel TT, Hameiri-Bowen D, Simms V, Rowland-Jones S, Ferrand RA, Bandason T, Yindom LM, Odland JØ, Cavanagh JP, Flaegstad T, Sovershaeva E. Exhaled nitric oxide is associated with inflammatory biomarkers and risk of acute respiratory exacerbations in children with HIV-associated chronic lung disease. HIV Med 2024; 25:223-232. [PMID: 37804064 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13565] [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: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Chronic lung disease is a recognized complication in children with HIV. Acute respiratory exacerbations (ARE) are common among this group and cause significant morbidity. Exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) is a known marker of local airway inflammation. We investigated the association between eNO and ARE, biomarkers of systemic inflammation, and the effect of azithromycin on eNO levels. METHODS Individuals aged 6-19 years with HIV-associated chronic lung disease in Harare, Zimbabwe, were enrolled in a placebo-controlled randomized trial investigating the effect of 48-week azithromycin treatment on lung function and ARE. eNO levels and biomarkers were measured at inclusion and after treatment in a consecutively enrolled subset of participants. Linear regression and generalized linear models were used to study associations between eNO and ARE, biomarkers, and the effect of azithromycin on eNO levels. RESULTS In total, 172 participants were included in this sub-study, 86 from the placebo group and 86 from the azithromycin group. Participants experiencing at least one ARE during follow-up had significantly higher eNO levels at baseline than participants who did not (geometric mean ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.24, p = 0.015), adjusted for trial arm, age, sex and history of tuberculosis. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, -7, and -10 were significantly associated with higher baseline eNO levels. At 48 weeks, azithromycin treatment did not affect eNO levels (geometric mean ratio 0.86, 95% CI 0.72-1.03, p = 0.103). CONCLUSION Higher baseline eNO levels were a risk factor for ARE. eNO was associated with proinflammatory biomarkers previously found to contribute to the development of chronic lung disease. The potential use of eNO as a marker of inflammation and risk factor for ARE in HIV-associated chronic lung disease needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trym Thune Flygel
- Paediatric Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health sciences, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | | | - Victoria Simms
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Rashida Abbas Ferrand
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Jon Øyvind Odland
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU The Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jorunn Pauline Cavanagh
- Paediatric Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health sciences, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Trond Flaegstad
- Paediatric Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health sciences, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Evgeniya Sovershaeva
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Akershus University Hospital, Nordbyhagen, Norway
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Daniel AI, Jemutai J. Identification of risk factors for inpatient mortality in infants and children with severe wasting and/or nutritional oedema-what next? Eur J Clin Nutr 2024; 78:163-164. [PMID: 37957237 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-023-01366-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
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Thelingwani RS, Jonhera CA, Masimirembwa C. Analysis of data and common mutations encountered during routine parentage testing in Zimbabwe. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1385. [PMID: 38228706 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51987-8] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
We analyzed parentage data collected over a ten-year period in a Zimbabwean DNA testing laboratory. Parentage case types, prevalence, exclusion data, mutations rates and observed genotyping irregularities were analyzed. We report analysis results from 1303 cases. DNA extraction and STR typing was conducted using standard commercial kits. Paternity was the most requested test (87.37%) followed by the indirect biological kinship tests (7.01%). Duo paternity (motherless) was the most common paternity test for both regular and court cases. We observed 367 paternity exclusions from 1135 cases, giving an overall paternity exclusion rate of 32.33%. Maternity had the lowest exclusion rate (8.33%), with criminal cases having the highest paternity (61.11%) and maternity (33.33%) exclusion rates. The number of mismatched STR loci ranged from 2-12 for duo cases and 4-18 for the trio cases. FGA, D2S1338, D18S51 and D2S441 were the most informative markers for exclusion. We detected 30 mutations out of 837 cases with an estimated paternal and maternal mutation rate of 0.0021 and 0.0011 respectively. Triallelic patterns were only observed at the TPOX locus with allele 10 and 11 being the extra alleles transmitted. Our report provides forensic parameters which can improve parentage and forensic analysis in Zimbabwe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roslyn Stella Thelingwani
- Forensic Science Unit, Department of Genomic Medicine, African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology (AiBST), 911 Boronia Township, Beatrice, Zimbabwe.
- CradleOmics, Block C, Wilkins Hospital Complex, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Catherine Ashley Jonhera
- Forensic Science Unit, Department of Genomic Medicine, African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology (AiBST), 911 Boronia Township, Beatrice, Zimbabwe
| | - Collen Masimirembwa
- Forensic Science Unit, Department of Genomic Medicine, African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology (AiBST), 911 Boronia Township, Beatrice, Zimbabwe
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Seidu AA, Duma S, Compton S, Akinyemi A, Randa MB, Owusu-Antwi R, David DS, Chamisa J, Kamusoko S, Darteh EKM, Morenkeji F, Mott J, Bauer S, Dickson KS, Munro-Kramer M. University Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Policies in Sub-Saharan Africa: Exploring Best Practices. J Forensic Nurs 2024; 20:43-52. [PMID: 38165738 DOI: 10.1097/jfn.0000000000000462] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in educational settings across the globe, particularly in institutions of higher education, requires strong institutional framework and policy guidelines. Most research about university SGBV policies has focused on high-income countries with little or no recourse to universities in low- and middle-income countries. This policy analysis aims to analyze existing policies related to SGBV from select sub-Saharan African universities to provide guidance on best practices toward addressing SGBV at universities in Africa. METHODS Seven university policies and six national policies from six countries across sub-Saharan Africa (Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Zimbabwe) were reviewed using a standardized data extraction form. The policy analysis identified eight key elements of policies related to SGBV for sub-Saharan African universities, which were verified using a nominal group technique with five international experts in the field. RESULTS Overall, policies varied significantly in accessibility, terminology, definitions, format, and inclusivity across the sites. Some of the policies were not readily accessible, and there was limited evidence provided in some of the policy documents. CONCLUSIONS Policies for universities in sub-Saharan Africa should (a) be evidence based, (b) be readily available in multiple formats, (c) define key terms broadly with gendered signifiers, (d) be succinct and concise, (e) incorporate broad definitions for all university stakeholders, (f) identify who created the policy and when, (g) address prevention, and (h) address response. Evidence-based policies addressing SGBV prevention, response, and justice are sorely needed at universities across the globe.
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Lim S, Said B, Zurba L, Mosler G, Addo-Yobo E, Adeyeye OO, Arhin B, Evangelopoulos D, Fapohunda VT, Fortune F, Griffiths CJ, Hlophe S, Kasekete M, Lowther S, Masekela R, Mkutumula E, Mmbaga BT, Mujuru HA, Nantanda R, Mzati Nkhalamba L, Ngocho JS, Ojo OT, Owusu SK, Shaibu S, Ticklay I, Grigg J, Barratt B. Characterising sources of PM 2·5 exposure for school children with asthma: a personal exposure study across six cities in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet Child Adolesc Health 2024; 8:17-27. [PMID: 38000380 PMCID: PMC10716619 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(23)00261-4] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Air pollution is the second largest risk to health in Africa, and children with asthma are particularly susceptible to its effects. Yet, there is a scarcity of air pollution exposure data from cities in sub-Saharan Africa. We aimed to identify potential exposure reduction strategies for school children with asthma living in urban areas in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS This personal exposure study was part of the Achieving Control of Asthma in Children in Africa (ACACIA) project. Personal exposure to particulate matter (PM) was monitored in school children in six cities in sub-Saharan Africa (Blantyre, Malawi; Durban, South Africa; Harare, Zimbabwe; Kumasi, Ghana; Lagos, Nigeria; and Moshi, Tanzania). Participants were selected if they were aged 12-16 years and had symptoms of asthma. Monitoring was conducted between June 21, and Nov 26, 2021, from Monday morning (approximately 1000 h) to Friday morning (approximately 1000 h), by use of a bespoke backpack with a small air pollution monitoring unit with an inbuilt Global Positioning System (GPS) data logger. Children filled in a questionnaire detailing potential sources of air pollution during monitoring and exposures were tagged into three different microenvironments (school, commute, and home) with GPS coordinates. Mixed-effects models were used to identify the most important determinants of children's PM2·5 (PM <2·5 μm in diameter) exposure. FINDINGS 330 children were recruited across 43 schools; of these, 297 had valid monitoring data, and 1109 days of valid data were analysed. Only 227 (20%) of 1109 days monitored were lower than the current WHO 24 h PM2·5 exposure health guideline of 15 μg/m3. Children in Blantyre had the highest PM2·5 exposure (median 41·8 μg/m3), whereas children in Durban (16·0 μg/m3) and Kumasi (17·9 μg/m3) recorded the lowest exposures. Children had significantly higher PM2·5 exposures at school than at home in Kumasi (median 19·6 μg/m3vs 14·2 μg/m3), Lagos (32·0 μg/m3vs 18·0 μg/m3), and Moshi (33·1 μg/m3vs 23·6 μg/m3), while children in the other three cities monitored had significantly higher PM2·5 exposures at home and while commuting than at school (median 48·0 μg/m3 and 43·2 μg/m3vs 32·3 μg/m3 in Blantyre, 20·9 μg/m3 and 16·3 μg/m3vs 11·9 μg/m3 in Durban, and 22·7 μg/m3 and 25·4 μg/m3vs 16·4 μg/m3 in Harare). The mixed-effects model highlighted the following determinants for higher PM2·5 exposure: presence of smokers at home (23·0% higher exposure, 95% CI 10·8-36·4), use of coal or wood for cooking (27·1%, 3·9-56·3), and kerosene lamps for lighting (30·2%, 9·1-55·2). By contrast, 37·2% (95% CI 22·9-48·2) lower PM2·5 exposures were found for children who went to schools with paved grounds compared with those whose school grounds were covered with loose dirt. INTERPRETATION Our study suggests that the most effective changes to reduce PM2·5 exposures in these cities would be to provide paving in school grounds, increase the use of clean fuel for cooking and light in homes, and discourage smoking within homes. The most efficient way to improve air quality in these cities would require tailored interventions to prioritise different exposure-reduction policies in different cities. FUNDING UK National Institute for Health and Care Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanon Lim
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Environmental Research Group, Imperial College London, London, UK; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Bibie Said
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania; Kibong'oto Infectious Disease Hospital, Hai, Tanzania
| | | | - Gioia Mosler
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Emmanuel Addo-Yobo
- Department of Child Health, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Olayinka Olufunke Adeyeye
- Department of Medicine, Lagos State University College of Medicine, and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | - Dimitris Evangelopoulos
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Environmental Research Group, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Temitope Fapohunda
- Department of Medicine, Lagos State University College of Medicine, and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Farida Fortune
- Centre for Oral immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Chris J Griffiths
- Asthma UK Centre for Applied Research, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Sbekezelo Hlophe
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Nelson R Mandela School of Clinical Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Marian Kasekete
- University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Refiloe Masekela
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Nelson R Mandela School of Clinical Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Blandina Theophil Mmbaga
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Hilda Angela Mujuru
- University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rebecca Nantanda
- Makerere University Lung Institute, Makerere College of Health Sciences, Kampala Uganda
| | | | - James S Ngocho
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Oluwafemi Tunde Ojo
- Department of Medicine, Lagos State University College of Medicine, and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | - Sunshine Shaibu
- Department of Medicine, Lagos State University College of Medicine, and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Ismail Ticklay
- University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jonathan Grigg
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Benjamin Barratt
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Environmental Research Group, Imperial College London, London, UK; NIHR NPRU in Environmental Exposures and Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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Smith JA, Powell CA, Chang SM, Ganga E, Tanyanyiwa H, Walker SP. A cluster randomised controlled trial of an early childhood parenting programme delivered through early childhood education centres in rural Zimbabwe. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13189. [PMID: 37882173 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13189] [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: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early childhood is a critical period for child development. Effective approaches to support families in low-resource settings in the use of responsive and stimulating parenting are needed. AIM The aim of this study was to examine the effects of the Reach Up early childhood parenting programme on children's development, parenting attitudes and practices, when delivered through early childhood development (ECD) centres in Zimbabwe. METHODS A cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted in Sanyati, a rural district in Zimbabwe. Twenty-four of 51 available centres were randomised to intervention (n = 12) or control (n = 12) groups. Sixteen mothers with a child aged 12-30 months were recruited from each centre's catchment area (n = 189 intervention; n = 193 control). The intervention comprised two home visits per month delivered by centre teaching assistants over a period of 27 months. Primary outcomes were child Developmental Quotient (DQ), Language, Eye and Hand coordination, Performance and Practical Reasoning subscale scores assessed at follow-up. Secondary outcomes were mothers' attitudes about child development, parenting practices and maternal depressive symptoms all measured at baseline and follow-up. Intention to treat analyses was conducted using mixed-effects regression models with the standard error adjusted for cluster and inverse proportionality weights to adjust for attrition. Significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS A total of 285 (74.6%) of 382 children enrolled were tested, with 97 children lost to follow-up. The intervention improved the children's DQ by 3.55 points (95% CI 0.82 to 6.28), Eye and Hand by 3.58 (95% CI 0.59 to 6.56) and Practical Reasoning by 4.19 (95% CI 0.96 to 7.42). No significant improvements to Performance or Language scores, parenting attitudes, parenting practices and depressive symptoms were identified. CONCLUSIONS A home visiting intervention delivered by ECD teaching assistants promoted children's development. This suggests that outreach from preschools may be an effective platform for delivery of parenting interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne A Smith
- Epidemiology Research Unit, Caribbean Institute for Health Research, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | - Christine A Powell
- Epidemiology Research Unit, Caribbean Institute for Health Research, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | - Susan M Chang
- Epidemiology Research Unit, Caribbean Institute for Health Research, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | - Emily Ganga
- Robert Mugabe School of Education and Culture, Great Zimbabwe University, Masvingo, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Susan P Walker
- Epidemiology Research Unit, Caribbean Institute for Health Research, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
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Moyo PL, Nunu WN. Exploring Barriers and Facilitators That Influence Uptake of Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe: Key Stakeholder's Perspectives. Am J Mens Health 2024; 18:15579883231223377. [PMID: 38183239 PMCID: PMC10771743 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231223377] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The world has been on the path to ending HIV and AIDS as a global threat by 2030; despite these efforts, the rate of new HIV infections among men who have sex with men remains very high. This study sought to explore the perceptions of key stakeholders on the potential barriers and facilitators of pre-exposure prophylaxis use among this key population. An exploratory, descriptive (through interviews) qualitative study was conducted on 10 key informants who were purposively selected and snowballed based on their knowledge and experience toward pre-exposure prophylaxis programming among men who have sex with men. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded, and thematically analyzed on MAXQDA. Stated barriers were stigma, lack of information, wrong messaging around pre-exposure prophylaxis, hearing negative things about the pills, the burden of taking pills daily, negative attitudes from health care providers, non-friendly health care facilities, pre-exposure prophylaxis not being affordable, and lack of flexibility and privacy from public hospitals. Identified facilitators were correct messaging on pre-exposure prophylaxis, long-lasting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis, improved packaging, de-stigmatization, more friendly facilities, differentiated service approach, community groups, engagement, and partnership. To address these barriers and leverage the facilitators, it is imperative to have accessible, affordable services, non-judgmental health care providers, and peer support networks to empower men who have sex with men to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health. Continued efforts to remove barriers and promote facilitators are crucial for maximizing the potential of pre-exposure prophylaxis as an effective HIV prevention tool among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perez Livias Moyo
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Wilfred Njabulo Nunu
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
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Haghparast-Bidgoli H, Hull-Bailey T, Nkhoma D, Chiyaka T, Wilson E, Fitzgerald F, Chimhini G, Khan N, Gannon H, Batura R, Cortina-Borja M, Larsson L, Chiume M, Sassoon Y, Chimhuya S, Heys M. Development and Pilot Implementation of Neotree, a Digital Quality Improvement Tool Designed to Improve Newborn Care and Survival in 3 Hospitals in Malawi and Zimbabwe: Cost Analysis Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e50467. [PMID: 38153802 PMCID: PMC10766148 DOI: 10.2196/50467] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Two-thirds of the 2.4 million newborn deaths that occurred in 2020 within the first 28 days of life might have been avoided by implementing existing low-cost evidence-based interventions for all sick and small newborns. An open-source digital quality improvement tool (Neotree) combining data capture with education and clinical decision support is a promising solution for this implementation gap. Objective We present results from a cost analysis of a pilot implementation of Neotree in 3 hospitals in Malawi and Zimbabwe. Methods We combined activity-based costing and expenditure approaches to estimate the development and implementation cost of a Neotree pilot in 1 hospital in Malawi, Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH), and 2 hospitals in Zimbabwe, Sally Mugabe Central Hospital (SMCH) and Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital (CPH). We estimated the costs from a provider perspective over 12 months. Data were collected through expenditure reports, monthly staff time-use surveys, and project staff interviews. Sensitivity and scenario analyses were conducted to assess the impact of uncertainties on the results or estimate potential costs at scale. A pilot time-motion survey was conducted at KCH and a comparable hospital where Neotree was not implemented. Results Total cost of pilot implementation of Neotree at KCH, SMCH, and CPH was US $37,748, US $52,331, and US $41,764, respectively. Average monthly cost per admitted child was US $15, US $15, and US $58, respectively. Staff costs were the main cost component (average 73% of total costs, ranging from 63% to 79%). The results from the sensitivity analysis showed that uncertainty around the number of admissions had a significant impact on the costs in all hospitals. In Malawi, replacing monthly web hosting with a server also had a significant impact on the costs. Under routine (nonresearch) conditions and at scale, total costs are estimated to fall substantially, up to 76%, reducing cost per admitted child to as low as US $5 in KCH, US $4 in SMCH, and US $14 in CPH. Median time to admit a baby was 27 (IQR 20-40) minutes using Neotree (n=250) compared to 26 (IQR 21-30) minutes using paper-based systems (n=34), and the median time to discharge a baby was 9 (IQR 7-13) minutes for Neotree (n=246) compared to 3 (IQR 2-4) minutes for paper-based systems (n=50). Conclusions Neotree is a time- and cost-efficient tool, comparable with the results from limited similar mHealth decision-support tools in low- and middle-income countries. Implementation costs of Neotree varied substantially between the hospitals, mainly due to hospital size. The implementation costs could be substantially reduced at scale due to economies of scale because of integration to the health systems and reductions in cost items such as staff and overhead. More studies assessing the impact and cost-effectiveness of large-scale mHealth decision-support tools are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tim Hull-Bailey
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tarisai Chiyaka
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Emma Wilson
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Felicity Fitzgerald
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gwendoline Chimhini
- Department of Child Adolescent and Women’s Health, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nushrat Khan
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Gannon
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rekha Batura
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mario Cortina-Borja
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leyla Larsson
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | - Simbarashe Chimhuya
- Department of Child Adolescent and Women’s Health, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Neonatal Unit, Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Michelle Heys
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Magocha B, Molope M, Palamuleni M, Saruchera M. The Interface between the State and NGOs in Delivering Health Services in Zimbabwe-A Case of the MSF ART Programme. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:7137. [PMID: 38063567 PMCID: PMC10706040 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20237137] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
An over-reliance on donor funding for HIV/AIDS healthcare services remains a concern in Africa. This study, therefore, explores the partnership between the Zimbabwean government and an international non-governmental organisation in delivering HIV/AIDS healthcare services. An interpretivist paradigm and descriptive phenomenological design were used to elicit the opinions, perceptions, and experiences of forty purposively sampled key informants. Thematic analysis was employed using ATLAS.ti version 7.1.4 to analyse the data. The differences in terms of policies, structures, and administrative issues between the partners identified challenges in the implementation of the programme. This was demonstrated through the reversal of the gains attained in prevention, care, and treatment. This raises concerns for increased risk of defaulters, drug resistance, and deaths. Therefore, the partners in this endeavour should negotiate an aligned approach for the efficient delivery of HIV/AIDS healthcare services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blessing Magocha
- Population and Health Research Entity, North-West University, Mafikeng 2735, South Africa; (M.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Mokgadi Molope
- Population and Health Research Entity, North-West University, Mafikeng 2735, South Africa; (M.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Martin Palamuleni
- Population and Health Research Entity, North-West University, Mafikeng 2735, South Africa; (M.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Munyaradzi Saruchera
- Africa Centre for HIV/Aids Management, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa;
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Chinene B, Mpezeni L, Mudadi L. Mental health literacy of undergraduate radiography students in Zimbabwe. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2023; 54:662-669. [PMID: 37657951 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2023.08.005] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Assessing the Mental Health Literacy (MHL) of students is crucial in having an understanding of mental health knowledge gaps, stigma, wrong beliefs, risk factors, and treatment-seeking behaviour. The aim of this study was to use a validated scale to examine the MHL of radiography students at a tertiary institution in Harare, Zimbabwe. METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted to assess the MHL of radiography students at a tertiary institution in Harare, Zimbabwe, using a validated MHL scale. Individual t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests were conducted for each variable to examine the differences between groups expected to differ in their MHL. RESULTS A total of 89 students were enrolled into the study. The overall mean MHL score was 96.62 (SD-9.55), with students less knowledgeable on environmental, social, familial, or biological factors that increase the risk of developing a mental illness. Gender had no statistically significant effect on the overall score, t(83) = -0.81, p = 0.42 [Males had mean score = 95.64, SD = 10.14; and Females had mean score = 97.35, SD = 9.12]]. However, there was a significant difference in recognition of disorders by gender, t(83) = -2.42, p = 0.02, with female students (M = 26.24, SD =2.68) scoring higher than male students (M =24.69, SD =3.21). In addition, students with a previous history of mental health disorders scored higher (M =26.86, SD = 2.19) than those with no previous history (M =25.47, SD =3.04), however the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION The students in the current study demonstrated lower MHL compared to most studies in the literature. Students were less knowledgeable about environmental, social, familial, or biological factors that increase the risk of developing a mental illness. Furthermore, a correlation between MHL and mental health experience was demonstrated. The implication of these findings is that the curriculum ought to be developed to help undergraduate radiography students become more knowledgeable about mental health and comfortable seeking appropriate support.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Chinene
- Harare Institute of Technology, Department of Radiography, Belvedere, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - L Mpezeni
- Zimbabwe Open University, Department of Psychology, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - L Mudadi
- Royal Papworth Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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Chinene B, Bwanga O. Exploring the perceptions of radiographers pertaining to the provision of quality radiological services in Zimbabwe. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2023; 54:632-643. [PMID: 37543488 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2023.07.013] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiology is part of the service industry; therefore, there is a need to understand quality and its associated factors. The cost of poor service quality is a loss of competitive advantage, increased litigation, misdiagnosis, unnecessary radiation exposure, and patient mortality. There has been little research into the factors influencing the quality of radiological services in Zimbabwe. This work, therefore, aimed to explore the radiographer's perceptions of the factors that affect the quality of radiological services at central hospitals in the Harare Metropolitan Province. METHODS A qualitative, explorative study applying the SERVQUAL model was carried out. One-on-one interviews with 10 purposively sampled radiographers employed at central hospitals in the Harare Metropolitan Province were conducted. The data were managed by Nvivo 12 (QSR International) and analyzed by framework analysis. RESULTS Radiographer's perceptions of the factors that affect the quality of radiological services were categorized by five themes namely; i. Tangibles - the physical appearance of the radiology department and facilities, ii. Reliability and dependability - the ability to perform the promised service dependably and accurately, iii. Responsiveness - the willingness to help patients and provide prompt service, iv. Assurance - the knowledge and courtesy of radiology staff and their ability to inspire trust and confidence, and v. Empathy - caring, the individualized attention the radiology department provides to its patients. CONCLUSION Economically viable, well-designed national strategies are needed to prioritize and fund radiology in Zimbabwe and other resource-constrained settings. Recognition of acquired specialist skills by radiographers to halt the exodus and training of radiologists, radiology nurses, medical physicists, and biomedical engineers by local institutions will go a long way in improving the quality of radiological services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bornface Chinene
- Department of Radiography, Harare Institute of Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe; Department of Medical Physics and Imaging Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Osward Bwanga
- Midland University Hospital Tullamore, Radiology Department, Co. Offaly, Ireland
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Nhamo D, Mangenah C, Chapwanya G, Mamvuto T, Mahaka I, Sri-Pathmanathan C, Ferrand RA, Kranzer K, Terris-Prestholt F, Marks M, Tucker JD. Feasibility and economic costs of syphilis self-testing to expand test uptake among gay, bisexual and transgender men: results from a randomised controlled trial in Zimbabwe. Sex Health 2023; 20:514-522. [PMID: 37666490 DOI: 10.1071/sh23038] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to syphilis testing and treatment is frequently limited for men who have sex with men (MSM). A two-armed randomised controlled trial compared feasibility and costs of facility-based syphilis testing with self-testing among MSM in Zimbabwe. METHODS This randomised controlled trial was conducted in Harare, with participants randomised 1:1. Syphilis self-testing was offered in community-based settings. The primary outcome was the relative proportion of individuals taking up testing. Total incremental economic provider and user costs, and cost per client tested, diagnosed and treated were assessed using ingredients-based costing in 2020US$. RESULTS A total of 100 men were enrolled. The two groups were similar in demographics. The mean age was 26years. Overall, 58% (29/50) and 74% (37/50) of facility- and self-testing arm participants, respectively, completed syphilis testing. A total of 28% of facility arm participants had a reactive test, with 50% of them returning for confirmatory testing yielding 28% reactivity. In the self-testing arm, 67% returned for confirmatory testing, with a reactivity of 16%. Total provider costs were US$859 and US$736, and cost per test US$30 and US$15 for respective arms. Cost per reactive test was US$107 and US$123, and per client treated US$215 and US$184, respectively. The syphilis test kit was the largest cost component. Total user cost per client per visit was US$9. CONCLUSION Syphilis self-testing may increase test uptake among MSM in Zimbabwe. However, some barriers limit uptake including lack of self-testing and poor service access. Bringing syphilis testing services to communities, simplifying service delivery and increasing self-testing access through community-based organisations are useful strategies to promote health-seeking behaviours among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Definate Nhamo
- Pangaea Zimbabwe AIDS Trust (PZAT), Harare, Zimbabwe; and Department of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa
| | - Collin Mangenah
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe; and Department of International Global Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | - Imelda Mahaka
- Pangaea Zimbabwe AIDS Trust (PZAT), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Rashida A Ferrand
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK; and Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK; and Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Fern Terris-Prestholt
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK; and UNAIDS, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michael Marks
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK; and Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Lariat J, Chikwari CD, Dauya E, Baumu VT, Kaisi V, Kafata L, Meza E, Simms V, Mackworth-Young C, Rochford H, Machiha A, Bandason T, Francis SC, Ferrand RA, Bernays S. "It's not safe for me and what would it achieve?" Acceptability of patient-referral partner notification for sexually transmitted infections to young people, a mixed methods study from Zimbabwe. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2023; 31:2220188. [PMID: 37565610 PMCID: PMC10424614 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2023.2220188] [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] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Partner notification (PN) is considered integral to the management of sexually transmitted infections (STI). Patient-referral is a common PN strategy and relies on index cases notifying and encouraging their partners to access treatment; however, it has shown limited efficacy. We conducted a mixed methods study to understand young people's experiences of PN, particularly the risks and challenges encountered during patient-referral. All young people (16-24 years) attending a community-based sexual and reproductive health service in Zimbabwe who were diagnosed with an STI were counselled and offered PN slips, which enabled their partners to access free treatment at the service. PN slip uptake and partner treatment were recorded. Among 1807 young people (85.0% female) offered PN slips, 745 (41.2%) took up ≥1 PN slip and 103 partners (5.7%) returned for treatment. Most participants described feeling ill-equipped to counsel and persuade their partners to seek treatment. Between June and August 2021, youth researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 41 purposively selected young people diagnosed with an STI to explore their experiences of PN. PN posed considerable social risks, threatening their emotional and physical safety. Except for a minority in long-term, publicly acknowledged relationships, participants did not expect PN would achieve successful outcomes. Public health discourse, which constructs PN as "the right thing to do", influenced participants to adopt narratives that concealed the difficulties of PN and their unmet needs. Urgent interrogation is needed of whether PN is a suitable or constructive strategy to continue pursuing with young people. To improve the outcomes of preventing reinfection and onward transmission of STIs, we must consider developing alternative strategies that better align with young people's lived experiences.Plain language summary Partner notification is a public health strategy used to trace the sexual partners of people who have received a sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis. It aims to interrupt the chains of STI transmission and prevent reinfection by treating both the person diagnosed and their sexual partners. The least effective but most common partner notification strategy used in many resource-limited settings is called "patient referral". This involves a sexual healthcare provider encouraging the person diagnosed to give a "partner notification slip" to their potentially exposed sexual partner/s and persuading them to access treatment. This research sought to better understand young people's experiences of partner notification, particularly the risks and challenges they faced during patient-referral.All young people (16-24 years) attending a community-based sexual and reproductive health service in Zimbabwe who were diagnosed with an STI were counselled and offered PN slips, which enabled their partners to access free treatment at the service. Young people trained as researchers interviewed 41 young people who had received a STI diagnosis to explore their experiences of partner notification.Only a small number (5.7%) of the partners of those who took a slip attended the service for treatment. Most participants felt they did not have the preparation, skills, or resources to persuade their partners to seek treatment. Many described negative experiences during and after partner notification, including relationship breakdown, reputation damage, and physical violence.These findings suggest that we should reconsider if partner notification is suitable or effective for use with young people. We should explore alternative approaches that do not present risks to young people's social, emotional, and physical safety and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joni Lariat
- Associate Lecturer, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- Assistant Professor, THRU Zim, Harare, Zimbabwe; Assistant Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ethel Dauya
- Study Coordinator, THRU Zim, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | | | - Esnath Meza
- Youth Researcher, THRU Zim, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Victoria Simms
- Associate Professor. THRU Zim, Harare, Zimbabwe; Associate Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | - Anna Machiha
- STI Coordinator, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Suzanna C. Francis
- Associate Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rashida A. Ferrand
- Professor, THRU Zim, Harare, Zimbabwe; Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sarah Bernays
- Associate Professor, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Associate Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Kouamou V, Gundidza P, Ndhlovu CE, Makadzange AT. Factors associated with CD4 + cell count recovery among males and females with advanced HIV disease. AIDS 2023; 37:2311-2318. [PMID: 37598355 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003695] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE HIV/AIDS mortality remains significantly high in sub-Saharan Africa, mostly driven by opportunistic infections and advanced HIV disease (AHD). This study aimed to assess CD4 + cell count recovery following ART initiation and factors associated with immune reconstitution. METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study between 2015 and 2016. HIV-infected adults (≥18 years) with AHD (CD4 + cell count ≤100 cells/μl) receiving care at 20 outpatient HIV treatment facilities in Harare, Zimbabwe were enrolled. CD4 + cell count recovery (CD4 + cell count >200 cells/μl) was assessed following 12-month ART initiation and factors associated with immune reconstitution were investigated using logistic regression analysis. All statistical analyses were performed on Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. RESULTS 1320 participants were enrolled and 56.4% were males. The median (interquartile range, IQR) age was 37 (32-43) years. Tuberculosis was seen in 16.0%. Of the 739 participants that had CD4 + cell count at 12 months, CD4 + cell count recovery above 200 cells/μl was observed in 163 (22.1%) participants. Median (IQR) CD4 + cell count at 12-months increased to 127 (75-190) cells/μl from 31 (14-55) at baseline. Factors associated with CD4 + cell count recovery were younger age at baseline [odds ratio (OR) ≥40/<40 = 0.58, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.40-0.85, P = 0.005), sex (OR female/male = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.44-2.99, P < 0.0001) and baseline CD4 + cell count (OR ≥50/<50 = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.10-2.33, P = 0.013). CONCLUSION A significant proportion (77.9%) of patients seeking care with AHD in a resource limited setting failed to recover a CD4 + cell count >200 cells/μl. Male sex, older age and low CD4 + cell count at ART initiation were factors associated with poor immune reconstitution. Better differentiated care deliveries targeting this vulnerable population are critical for improving clinical outcomes and quality of life of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinie Kouamou
- Charles River Medical Group
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Primary Healthcare Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Chiratidzo Ellen Ndhlovu
- Charles River Medical Group
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Primary Healthcare Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Gichohi-Wainaina WN, Kee-Tui SH, Zoethout M, Talsma EF, Edel I, Hauser M. Determinants of dietary diversity and drivers of food choice among low-income consumers in urban Kenya, Malawi and Zimbabwe. J Hum Nutr Diet 2023; 36:2180-2200. [PMID: 37798958 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.13244] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rapid urbanisation affects lifestyle and eating habits, predominantly causing a dietary shift that adds challenges to meet dietary recommendations within a complex food system. This research investigated dietary diversity and food choice drivers among low-income consumers in three urban settlements (Nairobi, Kenya; Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and Lilongwe, Malawi, representing rapid, moderate and slow urban growth patterns, respectively) as a first step towards improving diets across cultures and geographies. METHODS Mixed methods data collection was employed for this study. Qualitative methods such as rapid foodscape appraisal workshops and food stories in selected low-income settlements in Nairobi, Bulawayo and Lilongwe were utilised to collect information on the food environments (food balances, infrastructure, safety, policies and institutions). Quantitative data such as socio-demographic characteristics and dietary diversity were collected via structured questionnaires using Cognitive Edge's SenseMaker® (n = 890, 450 and 440 for Nairobi, Bulawayo and Lilongwe, respectively). The dietary intake of respondents was assessed using a 24-h recall, which was then converted to the food group diversity score (FGDS). RESULTS Different levels of compounded stress affected dietary diversity and quality, including high food prices, concerns about sanitation and hygiene and the role of food standards regulation bodies. The mean FGDS across all locations was lower than the recommended cut-off of 5 (4.5, 2.8 and 2.6 across Nairobi, Zimbabwe and Lilongwe, respectively). Additionally, in Nairobi, there were gender differences in diet diversity, with men having a higher dietary diversity score than women (4.6% vs. 4.3%; p = 0.004). The majority of respondents in Lilongwe (65%) reported price as the most important driver of food choice, compared to 38% in Nairobi and 42% in Bulawayo. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS Our observation of poor-quality diets provides further evidence of the need for food policies that are cognisant of the nutrition and health of the growing population of the urban poor. Such policies would focus on lowering the costs of nutritious foods as well as ensuring food safety within the complex food system observed in the urban low-income environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanjiku N Gichohi-Wainaina
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Lilongwe, Malawi
- Food, Policy and Nutrition Laboratory, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Sabine Homann Kee-Tui
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
- Alliance Bioversity International and CIAT, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Manon Zoethout
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Elise F Talsma
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Immaculate Edel
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Michael Hauser
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Nairobi, Kenya
- University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
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Stoner MCD, Hawley I, Mathebula F, Horne E, Etima J, Kemigisha D, Mutero P, Dandadzi A, Seyama L, Fabiano Z, Scheckter R, Noguchi L, Owor M, Balkus JE, Montgomery ET. Acceptability and Use of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring and Daily Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) During Breastfeeding in South Africa, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Uganda. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:4114-4123. [PMID: 37432541 PMCID: PMC10615878 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04125-w] [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] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
This study examines qualitative acceptability of the dapivirine vaginal ring (DVR) and oral daily pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among breastfeeding persons participating in Microbicide Trials Network 043/B-PROTECTED, a phase 3B safety and drug detectability study of DVR and oral PrEP in breastfeeding. A subsample of 52 participants were purposively sampled to participate in an in-depth interview (IDI). Breastfeeding participants found both study products to be acceptable, and easy to use. A common motivation for product use was to protect the baby from HIV, although participants' understanding of how the study drug would work to protect their babies was often unclear. While most participants did not report experiencing side effects, fears about side effects were common as both initial worries about how the study products would affect their health and the health of their baby, and increased anxiety that health issues experienced by them, or their baby were from the products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie C D Stoner
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA, 94104, USA.
| | - Imogen Hawley
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA, 94104, USA
| | - Florence Mathebula
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Elizea Horne
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Doreen Kemigisha
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Prisca Mutero
- Clinical Trials Research Centre, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Adlight Dandadzi
- Clinical Trials Research Centre, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Linly Seyama
- Johns Hopkins Project, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Zayithwa Fabiano
- Johns Hopkins Project, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Lisa Noguchi
- Division of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health, Jhpiego/Johns Hopkins University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Maxensia Owor
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jennifer E Balkus
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, USA
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, USA
| | - Elizabeth T Montgomery
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA, 94104, USA
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Lszl GM, Volynkin AV. A new species of Karschiola Gaede from Mozambique and Zimbabwe (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) with updated information on the distribution of the genus. Zootaxa 2023; 5375:214-226. [PMID: 38220826 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5375.2.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The present paper provides the description of a new species of the genus Karschiola Gaede, 1926 from central Mozambique and Zimbabwe: K. ndzou sp. n. The pairwise genetic distance between the two Karschiola species is calculated and a neighbour-joining tree based on DNA barcodes of two K. holoclera and five K. ndzou sp. n. specimens is provided. The paper is illustrated with eight colour photos of adults and 18 genitalia images, a distribution map and two habitat photos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyula M Lszl
- African Natural History Research Trust; Street Court; Kingsland; Leominster; HR6 9QA; United Kingdom.
| | - Anton V Volynkin
- Altai State University; Lenina Avenue 61; RF-656049; Barnaul; Russia.
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Munjoma PT, Chandiwana P, Wyss J, Mazhandu AJ, Jordi SBU, Gutsire R, Katsidzira L, Yilmaz B, Misselwitz B, Duri K. Immune activation and inflammation in lactating women on combination antiretroviral therapy: role of gut dysfunction and gut microbiota imbalance. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1280262. [PMID: 38045684 PMCID: PMC10693333 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1280262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) effectively controls HIV; however, chronic low-level viremia and gut microbiota dysbiosis remain significant drivers of gut and systemic inflammation. In this study, we explored the relationship between gut microbiota composition, intestinal inflammation, microbial translocation, and systemic inflammation in women on cART in Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods We conducted a study in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected lactating women followed up at 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum in Harare, Zimbabwe. We used 16S ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid (rRNA) sequencing and MesoScale Discovery V-Plex assays to examine the gut microbiome and to quantify plasma inflammatory biomarkers, respectively. In addition, we measured fecal calprotectin, plasma lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), and soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to assess gut inflammation, microbial translocation, and monocyte/macrophage activation. Results A group of 77 lactating women were studied, of which 35% were HIV-infected. Fecal calprotectin levels were similar by HIV status at both follow-up time points. In the HIV-infected group at 6 weeks postpartum, fecal calprotectin was elevated: median (interquartile range) [158.1 µg/g (75.3-230.2)] in women who had CD4+ T-lymphocyte counts <350 cells/µL compared with those with ≥350 cells/µL [21.1 µg/g (0-58.4)], p = 0.032. Plasma sCD14 levels were significantly higher in the HIV-infected group at both 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum, p < 0.001. Plasma LBP levels were similar, but higher levels were observed in HIV-infected women with elevated fecal calprotectin. We found significant correlations between fecal calprotectin, LBP, and sCD14 with proinflammatory cytokines. Gut microbial alpha diversity was not affected by HIV status and was not affected by use of antibiotic prophylaxis. HIV significantly affected microbial beta diversity, and significant differences in microbial composition were noted. The genera Slackia and Collinsella were relatively more abundant in the HIV-infected group, whereas a lower relative abundance of Clostriduim sensu_stricto_1 was observed. Our study also found correlations between gut microbial taxa abundance and systemic inflammatory biomarkers. Discussion and conclusion HIV-infected lactating women had increased immune activation and increased microbial translocation associated with increased gut inflammation. We identified correlations between the gut inflammation and microbial composition, microbial translocation, and systemic inflammation. The interplay of these parameters might affect the health of this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Privilege Tendai Munjoma
- Immunology Unit, Department of Laboratory Diagnostic and Investigative Sciences, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (UZ-FMHS), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Panashe Chandiwana
- Immunology Unit, Department of Laboratory Diagnostic and Investigative Sciences, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (UZ-FMHS), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jacqueline Wyss
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Maurice Müller Laboratories, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Arthur John Mazhandu
- Immunology Unit, Department of Laboratory Diagnostic and Investigative Sciences, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (UZ-FMHS), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sebastian Bruno Ulrich Jordi
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Maurice Müller Laboratories, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rutendo Gutsire
- Immunology Unit, Department of Laboratory Diagnostic and Investigative Sciences, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (UZ-FMHS), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Leolin Katsidzira
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (UZ-FMHS), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Bahtiyar Yilmaz
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Maurice Müller Laboratories, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Misselwitz
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for Biomedical Research, Maurice Müller Laboratories, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Kerina Duri
- Immunology Unit, Department of Laboratory Diagnostic and Investigative Sciences, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (UZ-FMHS), Harare, Zimbabwe
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Dzobo M, Dzinamarira T, Murewanhema G, Chishapira T, Dube Mandishora RS, Fitzpatrick M, Mashamba-Thompson T. Co-creation of human papillomavirus self-sampling delivery strategies for cervical cancer screening in rural Zimbabwe: nominal group technique. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1275311. [PMID: 38035305 PMCID: PMC10687562 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1275311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling is recommended for cervical cancer screening, particularly among women who do not participate in or have access to current screening methods offered in Zimbabwe. Key stakeholder involvement is critical in co-creating acceptable delivery strategies for implementing HPV self-sampling to ensure demand and facilitate uptake by the target population. The main objective of this study was to engage key stakeholders in co-creating acceptable HPV self-sampling delivery strategies for cervical cancer screening in rural Zimbabwe. Methods We invited key stakeholders and employed a nominal group technique (NGT) for data collection. We employed the NGT to (1) identify barriers to access and utilisation of available cervical cancer screening services and (2) co-create delivery strategies for HPV self-sampling. The workshop included 8 participants (women n = 4, health workers n = 2 and policymakers n = 2). Quantitative data was gathered by ranking ideas and qualitative data were collected from participant group discussions and analysed thematically. The results of the ranking exercise were fed back to the participants for comments. Results The most significant barriers to accessing and utilising current cervical cancer screening services by women were: Inadequate information and education on cervical cancer, lack of resources and funding for cervical cancer programmes, long distances to nearest health facilities, and low perceived personal risk of cervical cancer. Key stakeholders recommended enhanced education and awareness, results notification, linkage to care, community-based self-sampling, and the choice of sampling devices as potential HPV self-sampling delivery strategies. Conclusion Our study demonstrated the utility of the NGT for reaching a consensus. Using the NGT, we established priority delivery strategies for HPV self-sampling cervical cancer screening. Adequate education and awareness, early results notification, choice of sampling device and community-based self-sampling were crucial to HPV self-sampling screening in rural Zimbabwe. The proposed delivery strategies can guide the development of guidelines for designing and implementing an HPV self-sampling intervention. We recommend a study to determine women's most preferred HPV self-sampling delivery strategies before implementing the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Dzobo
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Tafadzwa Dzinamarira
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Centre for International Programmes Zimbabwe Trust, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Grant Murewanhema
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tatenda Chishapira
- Medical Microbiology Unit, Department of Laboratory Diagnostics and Investigative Sciences, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Racheal S. Dube Mandishora
- Medical Microbiology Unit, Department of Laboratory Diagnostics and Investigative Sciences, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Moffitt Cancer Center, Center for Immunization and Infection Research in Cancer (CIIRC), Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Megan Fitzpatrick
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Tivani Mashamba-Thompson
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Chisamba T, Maree JE, Jansen van Rensburg JJ. Knowledge, attitudes and practices of Zimbabwean men relating to prostate cancer. Curationis 2023; 46:e1-e8. [PMID: 38044857 PMCID: PMC10696549 DOI: 10.4102/curationis.v46i1.2459] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Zimbabwe. However, screening for prostate cancer is opportunistic as population-based screening is not available. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to describe the knowledge, attitudes and practices of men living in Harare, Zimbabwe relating to prostate cancer. METHOD A door-to-door survey took place in Mufakose, Harare. Each household was included, and men, 40 years and older, were convenience sampled until realisation of the calculated sample size of 269 (n = 269). A researcher-administered questionnaire collected the data, analysis was performed with descriptive statistics, and Chi-square tested statistically significant differences between the variables. RESULTS The majority of the sample (53.2; n = 143) was between 40 years old and 49 years old. Most (74.5%; n = 201) did not know what prostate cancer was, but the total sample (100%; n = 269) indicated that prostate cancer could lead to death. Only 50.6% (n = 136) were of the opinion that men should be screened; most (87.7%; n = 236) had never been screened. A Chi-square test of independence found a statistically significant difference between educational level and having had prostate cancer screening, χ2 (1) = 47.881, p 0.000. CONCLUSION As confirmed by other studies, the respondents had limited knowledge of prostate cancer, but had a positive attitude towards the disease, as most were willing to go for screening. There had been only a small percentage screened previously, and less than half returned to learn the results.Contribution: The study emphasises the role of primary health clinics as it could be an ideal setting to teach men about prostate cancer and its screening, and provide screening services in Zimbabwe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tendai Chisamba
- Department of Nursing Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
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Bero B, Zidana C, Showa SP. PrEP retention predictors among key populations in urban areas of Zimbabwe - a machine learning approach. Afr J AIDS Res 2023; 22:157-164. [PMID: 37905425 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2023.2237002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) success depends on adherence and hence retention in care. It is vital to find factors that affect PrEP retention to make this HIV-prevention method successful. The main objectives of this study were to identify the major determinants of PrEP retention at six months from day of initiation and to determine PrEP retention clusters. Data of people who were initiated on PrEP care at Population Services International sites between 2017 and 2019 in Zimbabwe were used. Determinants of PrEP retention were identified using multivariable logistic regression and partitioning around medoids (PAM) cluster analysis to determine the number and composition of PrEP retention clusters. Significant PrEP retention determinants were found to be population type, sex, marital status, employment type, age and education level. Female sex workers were most likely to stay on PrEP compared to other users. We found that PrEP users could be grouped into three risk clusters: cluster 1 consisted of married adult males who are high-risk individuals; cluster 2 consisted of the young single men who have sex with men (MSM); and cluster 3 consisted of adult women who are separated or divorced and employed as sex workers. The retention rates were 32%, 24% and 44% for clusters 1 to 3 respectively. We conclude that adults, female sex workers, high-risk individuals, women, people without or with little education and sex workers stay on PrEP better than youths, MSM, men and educated and employed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridgette Bero
- Department of Applied Mathematics, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Chipo Zidana
- Department of Mathematics and Statistical Sciences, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana
| | - Sarudzai Portia Showa
- Department of Applied Mathematics, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
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Roberts ST, Mancuso N, Williams K, Nabunya HK, Mposula H, Mugocha C, Mvinjelwa P, Garcia M, Szydlo DW, Soto‐Torres L, Ngure K, Hosek S. How a menu of adherence support strategies facilitated high adherence to HIV prevention products among adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan Africa: a mixed methods analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26189. [PMID: 37936551 PMCID: PMC10630658 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26189] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Effective use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been low among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa. The MTN-034/REACH trial offered AGYW a menu of adherence support strategies and achieved high adherence to both daily oral PrEP and the monthly dapivirine vaginal ring. Understanding how these strategies promoted product use could inform the design of adherence support systems in programmatic settings. METHODS REACH was a randomized crossover trial evaluating the safety of and adherence to the ring and oral PrEP among 247 HIV-negative AGYW (ages 16-21) in South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe from January 2019 to September 2021 (NCT03593655). Adherence support included monthly counselling sessions with drug-level feedback (DLF) plus optional daily short message service (SMS) reminders, weekly phone or SMS check-ins, peer support clubs, "peer buddies" and additional counselling. Counsellors documented adherence support choices and counselling content on standardized forms. Through focus groups, serial in-depth interviews (IDIs) and single IDIs (n = 119 total), we explored participants' experiences with adherence support and how it encouraged product use. RESULTS Participants received counselling at nearly all visits. DLF was provided at 54.3% of sessions and, across sites, 49%-68% received results showing high adherence for oral PrEP, and 73%-89% for the ring. The most popular support strategies were in-person clubs and weekly calls, followed by online clubs, additional counselling and SMS. Preferences differed across sites but were similar for both products. Qualitative results demonstrated that the REACH strategies supported adherence by providing information about HIV and PrEP, continually motivating participants, and supporting the development of behavioural skills and self-efficacy, aligning with the Information, Motivation, and Behavioural Skills (IMB) model. Effectiveness was supported by three foundational pillars: strong interpersonal relationships with counsellors; ongoing, easily accessible support and resources; and establishing trust in the counsellors and study products through counsellor relationships, peer-to-peer exchange and DLF. CONCLUSIONS Implementation programmes could support effective PrEP use by offering a small menu of counsellor- and peer-based support options that are youth-friendly and developmentally appropriate. The same menu options can support both ring and oral PrEP users, though content should be tailored to the individual products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah T. Roberts
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI InternationalBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Noah Mancuso
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI InternationalAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Kristin Williams
- Applied Public Health Research CenterRTI InternationalResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Hlengiwe Mposula
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV InstituteJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Caroline Mugocha
- University of Zimbabwe Clinical Trials Research CentreHarareZimbabwe
| | | | | | - Daniel W. Szydlo
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and PreventionFred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Lydia Soto‐Torres
- Division of AIDSNational Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- School of Public HealthJomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and TechnologyNairobiKenya
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Sybil Hosek
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation ScienceUniversity of Illinois ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
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Thomas KA, Sibanda EL, Johnson C, Watadzaushe C, Ncube G, Hatzold K, Tumushime MK, Mutseta M, Ruhode N, Indravudh PP, Cowan FM, Neuman M. Do community measures impact the effectiveness of a community led HIV testing intervention. Secondary analysis of an HIV self-testing intervention in rural communities in Zimbabwe. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 22:974. [PMID: 37907871 PMCID: PMC10617038 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08695-x] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing body of evidence for the role that communities can have in producing beneficial health outcomes. There is also an increasing recognition of the effectiveness and success of community-led interventions to promote public health efforts. This study investigated whether and how community-level measures facilitate a community-led intervention to achieve improved HIV outcomes. METHODS This is a secondary analysis of survey data from a cluster randomised trial in 40 rural communities in Zimbabwe. The survey was conducted four months after the intervention was initiated. Communities were randomised 1:1 to either paid distribution arm, where HIV self-test (HIVST) kits were distributed by a paid distributor, or community-led whereby members of the community were responsible for organising and conducting the distribution of HIVST kits. We used mixed effects logistic regression to assess the effect of social cohesion, problem solving, and HIV awareness on HIV testing and prevention. RESULTS We found no association between community measures and the three HIV outcomes (self-testing, new HIV diagnosis and linkage to VMMC or confirmatory testing). However, the interaction analyses highlighted that in high social cohesion communities, the odds of new HIV diagnosis was greater in the community-led arm than paid distribution arm (OR 2.06 95% CI 1.03-4.19). CONCLUSION We found some evidence that community-led interventions reached more undiagnosed people living with HIV in places with high social cohesion. Additional research should seek to understand whether the effect of social cohesion is persistent across other community interventions and outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION PACTR201607001701788.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Euphemia Lindelwe Sibanda
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Cheryl Johnson
- HIV, Hepatitis and STI Department, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Getrude Ncube
- Ministry of Health and Child Welfare, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Karin Hatzold
- Population Services International, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mary K Tumushime
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Miriam Mutseta
- Department of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights and Innovations, Population Services International Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nancy Ruhode
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Frances M Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Melissa Neuman
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK
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Nyambayo PPM, Gold MS, Mehta UC, Clarke S, Manyevere R, Chirinda L, Zifamba EN, Nyamandi T. Efficacy and feasibility of SMS m-Health for the detection of adverse events following immunisation (AEFIs) in resource-limited setting-The Zimbabwe stimulated telephone assisted rapid safety surveillance (Zm-STARSS) randomised control trial. Vaccine 2023; 41:6700-6709. [PMID: 37805357 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.09.037] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The mHealth active participant centred (MAPC) adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) surveillance is a promising area for early AEFI detection resulting in risk minimisation. Passive (spontaneous) AEFI surveillance is the backbone for vaccine pharmacovigilance, but has inherent drawbacks of under reporting, and requires strengthening with active surveillance methods. AIM The Zimbabwe stimulated telephone assisted rapid safety surveillance (Zm-STARSS) randomised controlled trial (RCT) sought to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of AEFI detection using a short message service (SMS) and computer assisted telephone interview (CATI) approach. METHOD A multicentre Zm-STARSS RCT enrolled consented adult vaccinees or parents or guardians of children receiving vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, at study vaccination clinics. At enrolment study participants were randomised to either SMS-CATI group or control group. SMS prompts were sent on days 0-2 and 14 post-vaccination to SMS-CATI group to ascertain if a medically attendance or attention due to an Adverse event following immunisation (AEFI) had occurred. However, no SMSs were sent to the control group. SMS-CATI group who responded "Yes" to SMS prompts were interviewed by research healthcare workers (RHCWs) who completed a CATI to determine if an AEFI had occurred whilst an AEFI in control group was determined from passive AEFI reporting channels. The primary study outcome was the AEFI detection rate in the SMS-CATI group compared to the control group. RESULTS A total of 4560 participants were enrolled after signed informed consent, all were encouraged to report AEFIs and randomised automatically on 1:1 basis into two arms SMS CATI intervention group (n = 2280) and a control passive AEFI surveillance group (n = 2280) on day 0. A total of 704 (31 %) participants responded to the SMS prompts, with 75 % (528/704) indicating "No" and 25 % (176/704) reporting "Yes" to seeking medical attention or attendance post-immunisation. 69 % (121/176) completed a CATI survey but in only 36 % (44/121) was the AEFI confirmed. There were no AEFIs reported in control group participants. The detection rate of a AEFI associated with medically attendance or attention using the SMS-CATI methodology was 2 % (44/2280) on an intention to treat cohort. CONCLUSION Despite the low SMS response and CATI completion rate, we demonstrated that Zm-STARSS SMS system improves AEFI detection compared to passive AEFI surveillance. We recommend that this and similar approaches are explored further using cost-effective multi-channel digital approaches for holistic pharmacovigilance to improve AEFI detection in Low Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) for all vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla P M Nyambayo
- Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Trials Division, Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Michael S Gold
- University of Adelaide, Discipline of Paediatrics, Women's and Children's Health Network, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ushma C Mehta
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stephen Clarke
- Flexis Systems Pty Ltd, PO Box 352, Mayfield, NSW 2304, Australia
| | - Rumbidzai Manyevere
- Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Trials Division, Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Libert Chirinda
- Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Trials Division, Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Edlyne N Zifamba
- Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Trials Division, Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tatenda Nyamandi
- Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Trials Division, Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Mavhu W, Makamba M, Hatzold K, Maringwa G, Takaruza A, Mutseta M, Ncube G, Cowan FM, Sibanda EL. Preferences for oral-fluid-based or blood-based HIV self-testing and provider-delivered testing: an observational study among different populations in Zimbabwe. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 22:973. [PMID: 37848810 PMCID: PMC10583299 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08624-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited data on client preferences for different HIV self-testing (HIVST) and provider-delivered testing options and associated factors. We explored client preferences for oral-fluid-based self-testing (OFBST), blood-based self-testing (BBST) and provider-delivered blood-based testing (PDBBT) among different populations. METHODS At clinics providing HIV testing services to general populations (1 urban, 1 rural clinic), men seeking voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC, 1 clinic), and female sex workers (FSW, 1 clinic), clients had the option to test using OFBST, BBST or PDBBT. A pre-test questionnaire collected information on demographics and testing history. Two weeks after collecting a self-test kit, participants responded to a questionnaire. We used logistic regression to determine predictors of choices. We also conducted 20 in-depth interviews to contextualise quantitative findings. RESULTS May to June 2019, we recruited 1244 participants of whom 249 (20%), 251 (20%), 244 (20%) and 500 (40%) were attending urban general, rural, VMMC and FSW clinics, respectively. Half (n = 619, 50%) chose OFBST, 440 (35%) and 185 (15%) chose BBST and PDBBT, respectively. In multivariable analysis comparing those choosing HIVST (OFBST and BBST combined) versus not, those who had never married aOR 0.57 (95% CI 0.34-0.93) and those previously married aOR0.56 (0.34-0.93) were less likely versus married participants to choose HIVST. HIVST preference increased with education, aOR 2.00 (1.28-3.13), 2.55 (1.28-5.07), 2.76 (1.48-5.14) for ordinary, advanced and tertiary education, respectively versus none/primary education. HIVST preference decreased with age aOR 0.97 (0.96-0.99). Urban participants were more likely than rural ones to choose HIVST, aOR 9.77 (5.47-17.41), 3.38 (2.03-5.62) and 2.23 (1.38-3.61) for FSW, urban general and VMMC clients, respectively. Comparing those choosing OFBST with those choosing BBST, less literate participants were less likely to choose oral fluid tests, aOR 0.29 (0.09-0.92). CONCLUSIONS Most testing clients opted for OFBST, followed by BBST and lastly, PDBBT. Those who self-assessed as less healthy were more likely to opt for PDBBT which likely facilitated linkage. Results show importance of continued provision of all strategies in order to meet needs of different populations, and may be useful to inform both HIVST kit stock projections and tailoring of HIVST programs to meet the needs of different populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Webster Mavhu
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 4 Bath Road, Belgravia, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Memory Makamba
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 4 Bath Road, Belgravia, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Karin Hatzold
- Population Services International, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Galven Maringwa
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 4 Bath Road, Belgravia, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Albert Takaruza
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 4 Bath Road, Belgravia, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | - Frances M Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 4 Bath Road, Belgravia, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Euphemia L Sibanda
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 4 Bath Road, Belgravia, Harare, Zimbabwe.
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK.
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Mantula F, Toefy Y. Women and health providers' perspectives on male support for cervical cancer screening in Gwanda district, Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282931. [PMID: 37824479 PMCID: PMC10569579 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282931] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have shown that male involvement increases the uptake of sexual and reproductive health programmes for improved family health outcomes. The role of men in reducing the burden of cervical cancer has however not been researched in Zimbabwe. It is for this reason that this study explores male support for cervical cancer screening programmes from the perspective of women and health providers in the Gwanda district of Zimbabwe. A qualitative approach that engaged thirty-six women aged 25-50 years in focus group discussions, and twenty-five health providers with different roles in the cervical cancer screening programme in in-depth interviews was used to determine their perspectives on male support for cervical cancer screening. Data were analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti Computer Assisted Qualitative data analysis software. Key findings reflected that men lacked knowledge on cervical cancer and its risk factors and prevention. Subsequently, they engaged in sexual behaviours that increased their partners' risk of acquiring Human Papillomavirus infection, the virtually necessary cause of cervical cancer. Furthermore, men did not provide the necessary emotional and financial support for their women to access screening and treatment. Participants were optimistic that innovative awareness creation strategies and intense, sustained cervical cancer education efforts targeting men could increase male partner support. Involvement of community leaders was seen as crucial in the facilitation of male involvement for programme acceptance and improved uptake of cervical cancer screening. Male involvement is seen as an integral component of the cervical cancer prevention and control programme that has to be implemented in Gwanda district to minimise male partner-related barriers to cervical cancer screening. Further research focusing on men is required to identify specific knowledge gaps that would enable development of appropriate strategies that best involve men in cervical cancer prevention and control interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fennie Mantula
- Department of Global Health, Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Yoesrie Toefy
- Department of Global Health, Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
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Tigirigi TO, Sithole GY, Chakara P, Chirombo GZ, Chiweza AR, Mubayiwa TR, Muchemwa S, Chibanda D, Dambi JM. Evaluation of the health-related quality of life and associated factors in Zimbabwean adults living with HIV: a cross-sectional study. BMC Res Notes 2023; 16:251. [PMID: 37794503 PMCID: PMC10548739 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-023-06536-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE HIV remains a global burden, with the Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) region reporting the largest number of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV). An exponential improvement in the accessibility and uptake of antiretroviral treatment across SSA has significantly improved outcomes for PLHIV. Hence, HIV care goals have shifted from reducing mortality and morbidity to improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study uses generic and condition-specific HRQoL outcomes to holistically determine the HRQoL of Zimbabwean adult PLHIV and associated factors. HRQoL is a dynamic subject construct that warrants continuous evaluation to provide meaningful feedback to various stakeholders. We enrolled 536 adult PLHIV in Zimbabwe. Collected data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and multivariate binary logistic regression. RESULTS Our study shows a high HRQoL perception by Zimbabwean PLHIV. Anxiety, depression, and poor environmental health were widely reported domains influencing HRQoL. Also, being aware of HIV status for over a year, not experiencing an adverse event, being married, having adequate finances and food security and having higher educational status were associated with higher HRQoL. It is essential to integrate mental health care into routine HIV care to improve treatment outcomes and HRQoL. Last, implementing bespoke multisectoral HRQoL-enhancement interventions is paramount.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tendai Orial Tigirigi
- Rehabilitation Sciences Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO BOX AV 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Grace Yolanda Sithole
- Rehabilitation Sciences Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO BOX AV 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Princess Chakara
- Rehabilitation Sciences Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO BOX AV 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Gracious Z Chirombo
- Rehabilitation Sciences Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO BOX AV 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Annamore Rutendo Chiweza
- Rehabilitation Sciences Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO BOX AV 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Trish R Mubayiwa
- Rehabilitation Sciences Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO BOX AV 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sidney Muchemwa
- Rehabilitation Sciences Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO BOX AV 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Dixon Chibanda
- Mental Health Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jermaine M Dambi
- Rehabilitation Sciences Unit - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO BOX AV 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Sisimayi T, Nhamo D, Chatora K, Chapwanya G, Mawoyo T, Ncube G, Bruns C, Harris EL, Shelley KD. Early implementation learnings on acceptability and feasibility of "V": a multi-level PrEP intervention designed with and for adolescent girls and young women in Zimbabwe. Health Res Policy Syst 2023; 21:101. [PMID: 37784195 PMCID: PMC10546763 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-023-01040-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) remain disproportionately affected by HIV in Zimbabwe. Several HIV prevention options are available, including oral tenofovir-based pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), however AGYW face unique barriers to PrEP uptake and continuation and novel approaches are therefore needed to empower AGYW to use PrEP. The objective of this study was to characterize early learnings from implementing a multi-level intervention consisting of fashionable branding (including a "V Starter Kit"), service integration, and peer education and support throughout a young woman's journey using oral PrEP across four phases of implementation, from creating demand, preparing for PrEP, initiation of PrEP, and adherence to PrEP. METHODS A mixed methods implementation research study was undertaken, including site observations and interviews to explore the acceptability of "V" and its relevance to target users, as well as the feasibility of integrating "V" with existing service delivery models. Interviews (n = 46) were conducted with healthcare workers, Brand Ambassadors, and young women purposively sampled from four implementation sites. Interview data was analyzed thematically using the framework method for qualitative data management and analysis. Project budgets and invoices were used to compile unit cost and procurement data for all "V" materials. RESULTS "V" was acceptable to providers and young women due to attractive branding coupled with factual and thought-provoking messaging, establishing "a girl code" for discussing PrEP, and addressing a gap in communications materials. "V" was also feasible to integrate into routine service provision and outreach, alongside other services targeting AGYW. Cost for the "V" branded materials ranked most essential-FAQ insert, pill case, makeup bag, reminder sticker-were $7.61 per AGYW initiated on PrEP. CONCLUSION "V" is a novel approach that is an acceptable and feasible multi-level intervention to improve PrEP access, uptake, and continuation among AGYW, which works through empowering AGYW to take control of their HIV prevention needs. In considering "V" for scale up in Zimbabwe, higher volume procurement and a customized lighter package of "V" materials, while still retaining V's core approach, should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Definate Nhamo
- Pangaea Zimbabwe AIDS Trust (PZAT), 27 Rowland Square, Milton Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Kumbirai Chatora
- Population Services International (PSI), 45 Piers Road, Sam Levy's Village Block C, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Gwendoline Chapwanya
- Pangaea Zimbabwe AIDS Trust (PZAT), 27 Rowland Square, Milton Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tinovonga Mawoyo
- Population Services International (PSI), 45 Piers Road, Sam Levy's Village Block C, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Getrude Ncube
- Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), 4th Floor Kaguvi Building, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Cal Bruns
- Matchboxology, 70, 7th Avenue, Parktown North, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Emily L Harris
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Office of HIV/AIDS, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Katharine D Shelley
- PATH, Primary Health Care, 2201 Westlake Ave Suite 200, Seattle, WA, 98121, USA
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Ngwenya S, Boshoff N. Self-interestedness in Research Collaboration and its Association with Career Stage and Nature of Collaboration: A Survey of Zimbabwean Researchers. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2023; 18:189-207. [PMID: 37528585 PMCID: PMC10496421 DOI: 10.1177/15562646231192808] [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: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
During collaboration in research, it may happen that some researchers become involved in behaviours that reflect so-called 'self-interestedness', which means that they pursue their personal interest or benefit without considering others. This study examined how researchers in Zimbabwe perceive instances of self-interestedness among research collaborators, and how these perceptions differ according to their career stage and the nature of collaboration. An online survey of researchers in Zimbabwe was conducted to gather information about six instances of self-interestedness among research collaborators. The results show that Zimbabwean researchers involved exclusively in national collaboration reported greater degrees of collaborator self-interestedness than Zimbabwean researchers involved in international collaboration. However, early-career researchers and established researchers did not differ significantly regarding their experiences of collaborator self-interestedness. Measures aimed at capacitating research organisations and research teams in developing countries in the African context, to counter collaborator self-interestedness, are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Similo Ngwenya
- Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (CREST) and DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Scientometrics and Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (SciSTIP), Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Nelius Boshoff
- Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (CREST) and DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Scientometrics and Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (SciSTIP), Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
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