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Sherief ST, Muhe LM, Mekasha A, Demtse A, Ali A. Prevalence and causes of ocular disorders and visual impairment among preterm children in Ethiopia. BMJ Paediatr Open 2024; 8:e002317. [PMID: 38325900 PMCID: PMC10860044 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2023-002317] [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: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, causes of ocular disorders and visual impairment among preterm children previously admitted to neonatal intensive care units in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A prospective screening survey was conducted from February to June 2019 at the paediatric eye clinic of Menelik II Hospital. Children who were preterm at birth and who attended the eye clinic were included in the study. Data on demographic and neonatal characteristics, neonatal and maternal comorbidities and ocular disorders were collected. OR and univariate analysis were used to identify predictors of ocular diseases and visual impairment. RESULTS There were 222 children included in the study with a mean age at presentation of 2.62 years (range 2.08-6.38 years), mean gestational age 34.11 weeks (range 30-36) weeks and mean birth weight 1941.72 g (range 953-3500 g). Nearly two-thirds had ocular disorders with refractive error (51.8%), strabismus (11.3%) and a history of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) (7.2%) being more common. One-fourth of the children had visual impairment, and the prevalence of amblyopia was 40.1%. Uncorrected refractive errors, strabismus and ROP were causes for visual impairment. CONCLUSION Visual impairment and amblyopia are common in Ethiopia. There is a need to develop a screening protocol for ocular disorders for preterm children to enhance early detection and prevention of childhood visual impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadik Taju Sherief
- Department of Ophthalmology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences Program and Centre for Global Child Health, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lulu M Muhe
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Amha Mekasha
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Asrat Demtse
- Paediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asim Ali
- Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Ayele RH, Yimer YG, Bekuretsion Y, Muhe LM, Patel SA, Cunningham SA, Hailu D, Watkins B. A retrospective review on the histopathological pattern of childhood malignant solid tumors in Ethiopia. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023:e30424. [PMID: 37194456 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), malignancies remain underreported due to lack of quality data. This study outlines the histopathological pattern of pediatric solid malignancies in children aged 0-15 years at the largest referral hospital in Ethiopia. A total of 432 solid malignancies were evaluated. The most common malignancies were lymphoma (21.8%), retinoblastoma (19.4%), and Wilms tumor (13.9%). Burkitt lymphoma accounted for 2.1%, despite being the most reported pediatric malignancy in sub-Saharan Africa in published literature. Definitive diagnosis could not be made in 7% of cases, related to the lack of confirmatory testing. The study highlights the need for improvement in diagnostic capabilities in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahell Hailu Ayele
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Yonas Bekuretsion
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Lulu M Muhe
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Shivani A Patel
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Daniel Hailu
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Benjamin Watkins
- Department of Pediatrics, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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3
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Rosa-Mangeret F, Benski AC, Golaz A, Zala PZ, Kyokan M, Wagner N, Muhe LM, Pfister RE. 2.5 Million Annual Deaths-Are Neonates in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Too Small to Be Seen? A Bottom-Up Overview on Neonatal Morbi-Mortality. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:64. [PMID: 35622691 PMCID: PMC9148074 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7050064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Every year, 2.5 million neonates die, mostly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), in total disregard of their fundamental human rights. Many of these deaths are preventable. For decades, the leading causes of neonatal mortality (prematurity, perinatal hypoxia, and infection) have been known, so why does neonatal mortality fail to diminish effectively? A bottom-up understanding of neonatal morbi-mortality and neonatal rights is essential to achieve adequate progress, and so is increased visibility. (2) Methods: We performed an overview on the leading causes of neonatal morbi-mortality and analyzed the key interventions to reduce it with a bottom-up approach: from the clinician in the field to the policy maker. (3) Results and Conclusions: Overall, more than half of neonatal deaths in LMIC are avoidable through established and well-known cost-effective interventions, good quality antenatal and intrapartum care, neonatal resuscitation, thermal care, nasal CPAP, infection control and prevention, and antibiotic stewardship. Implementing these requires education and training, particularly at the bottom of the healthcare pyramid, and advocacy at the highest levels of government for health policies supporting better newborn care. Moreover, to plan and follow interventions, better-quality data are paramount. For healthcare developments and improvement, neonates must be acknowledged as humans entitled to rights and freedoms, as stipulated by international law. Most importantly, they deserve more respectful care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Rosa-Mangeret
- Neonatal Division, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (P.Z.Z.); (R.E.P.)
- Global Health Institute, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Anne-Caroline Benski
- Obstetrics Division, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anne Golaz
- Center for Education and Research in Humanitarian Action, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Persis Z. Zala
- Neonatal Division, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (P.Z.Z.); (R.E.P.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Centre Medico-Chirurgical-Pédiatrique Persis, Ouahigouya BP267, Burkina Faso
| | - Michiko Kyokan
- Global Health Institute, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Noémie Wagner
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Division, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Lulu M. Muhe
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa 1000, Ethiopia;
| | - Riccardo E. Pfister
- Neonatal Division, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (P.Z.Z.); (R.E.P.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
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4
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Metaferia G, Abayneh M, Aynalem S, Demisse AG, Demtse AG, Eshetu B, Mekasha A, Worku B, Nigussie AK, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL, Muhe LM. Antenatal Steroid Utilization in Ethiopia. Glob Pediatr Health 2021; 8:2333794X21990344. [PMID: 33614845 PMCID: PMC7868499 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x21990344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Administration of antenatal corticosteroids to pregnant mothers is one of the most effective interventions to decrease preterm neonatal mortality. In this study we assessed antenatal steroid utilization by the mother and its effect on preterm babies. Method. Two years prospective, multicenter, observational study was conducted in selected hospitals of Ethiopia. Significance of the study outcomes was tested by chi-square and binary logistic regression. Result. Out of 4919 participants, 1575 preterm babies whose gestational ages were below 35 weeks were included in the study. Use of antenatal dexamethasone was 37.5% among study participants. The risk of early onset neonatal sepsis 235 (40.4%) was higher in preterm babies whose mother took antenatal dexamethasone (P-value .002) than those who did not. Conclusion. Antenatal dexamethasone use in our study was comparable with other low and middle-income countries. Risk of early onset neonatal sepsis was higher among infants whose mother took antenatal dexamethasone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gesit Metaferia
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mahlet Abayneh
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sara Aynalem
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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5
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Aynalem S, Abayneh M, Metaferia G, Demissie AG, Gidi NW, Demtse AG, Berta H, Worku B, Nigussie AK, Mekasha A, Tazu Bonger Z, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL, Muhe LM. Hyperbilirubinemia in Preterm Infants Admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Ethiopia. Glob Pediatr Health 2021; 7:2333794X20985809. [PMID: 33457466 PMCID: PMC7783876 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x20985809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Hyperbilirubinemia is prevalent and protracted in
preterm infants. This study assessed the pattern of hyperbilirubinemia in
preterm infants in Ethiopia. Methods. This study was part of
multi-centered prospective, cross-sectional, observational study that determined
causes of death among preterm infants. Jaundice was first identified based on
clinical visual assessment. Venous blood was then sent for total and direct
serum bilirubin level measurements. For this study, a total serum bilirubin
level ≥5 mg/dL was taken as the cutoff point to diagnose hyperbilirubinemia.
Based on the bilirubin level and clinical findings, the final diagnoses of
hyperbilirubinemia and associated complications were made by the physician.
Result. A total of 4919 preterm infants were enrolled into
the overall study, and 3852 were admitted to one of the study’s newborn
intensive care units. Of these, 1779 (46.2%) infants were diagnosed with
hyperbilirubinemia. Ten of these (0.6%) developed acute bilirubin
encephalopathy. The prevalence of hyperbilirubinemia was 66.7% among the infants
who were less than 28 weeks of gestation who survived. Rh incompatibility
(P = .002), ABO incompatibility
(P = .0001), and sepsis (P = .0001) were
significantly associated with hyperbilirubinemia. Perinatal asphyxia
(P-value = 0.0001) was negatively associated with
hyperbilirubinemia. Conclusion. The prevalence of
hyperbilirubinemia in preterm babies admitted to neonatal care units in Ethiopia
was high. The major risk factors associated with hyperbilirubinemia in preterm
babies in this study were found to be ABO incompatibility, sepsis, and Rh
isoimmunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Aynalem
- St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mahlet Abayneh
- St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Gesit Metaferia
- St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | | | - Bogale Worku
- Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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7
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Gidi NW, Goldenberg RL, Nigussie AK, Tazu Bonger Z, McClure EM, Abayneh M, Siebeck M, Genzel-Boroviczény O, Muhe LM. Disparity in Birth Size of Ethiopian Preterm Infants in Comparison to International INTERGROWTH-21st Data. Glob Pediatr Health 2020; 7:2333794X20973484. [PMID: 33283026 PMCID: PMC7684671 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x20973484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Patterns of fetal growth are largely influenced by
environmental, nutritional, and socioeconomic factors more than differences in
populations. The aim of this study was to assess anthropometric measurements of
Ethiopian preterm infants at birth and compare the results with the
international INTERGROWTH-21st data. Patients and methods. We
analyzed anthropometric data on live-born singleton preterm infants enrolled in
a hospital-based multicenter study of illness in preterm infants (SIP). Eligible
newborns with gestational age of 28-36 weeks were included. Gestational age (GA)
and sex-specific mean and standard deviations (SD), 10th, 50th, 90th, centile
values for birth weight, length and head circumference (HC) were calculated and
compared with INTERGROWTH-21st data. Result. A total of 2763
preterm infants were included in the study, 54% were male. The prevalence of
small for GA (SGA) (<10th percentile) and large for GA (LGA) (>90th
percentile) were 10.8% and 9.9%, respectively. In all 3 parameters, the mean
values of boys were higher than of girls. Birth weight centiles were comparable
to international averages at lower GA, then after GA of 32 weeks the 10th, 50th,
and 90th centile values were 100-500 g less than the international averages. The
head circumference centiles were mostly comparable, and the 90th centile values
were greater than the international averages across the GA and in both sexes.
Conclusion. The infants’ birth weights were smaller at
higher GA, which may indicate maternal undernutrition in the third trimester of
pregnancy. Strengthening antenatal nutrition counseling and providing nutrition
supplementation might improve the birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Netsanet Workneh Gidi
- Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia.,CIHLMU, Center for International Health, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Mahlet Abayneh
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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8
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Tigabu Kebede Z, Matebe YH, Demisse AG, Yimer MA, Mekasha A, Worku A, Demtse Gebremedhin A, McClure EM, Nigussie AK, Worku B, Gidi NW, Metaferia G, Goldenberg RL, Muhe LM. Hematologic Profiles of Ethiopian Preterm Infants With Clinical Diagnoses of Early-Onset Sepsis, Perinatal Asphyxia, and Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Glob Pediatr Health 2020; 7:2333794X20960264. [PMID: 33088853 PMCID: PMC7545762 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x20960264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. To determine the hematologic profile of preterm infants with regard to different diseases. Methods. A prospective, cross-sectional, observational study, conducted in 5 hospitals in Ethiopia from July 2016 to May 2018. Preterm babies <7 days of age were included and investigated with complete blood counts (CBC) and other investigations, accordingly. Results. Out of 4919 preterms, 3852 (78.3%) were admitted to a newborn intensive care unit, and of these, 68.3% had a CBC performed. The mean values of hemoglobin, white blood cell (WBC) and platelet counts were 17.9 mg/dL; 12 685 cells/mm3, and 159 340 cells/mm3, respectively. Early onset neonatal sepsis (EONS) 1433 (37%), asphyxia 266 (6.9%), and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) 1738 (45.3%) were common reasons for admission. The WBC count was <5000 cells/mm3 for 8.8%, 9.0%, and 11.1% of neonates with EONS, asphyxia and RDS, respectively. The hemoglobin value was <7 mg/dL for 0.6%, 1.7%, and 0.4% of preterm infants with EONS, asphyxia, and RDS, respectively. The platelet count was <50 000 cells/mm3 for 16.8%, 17.7%, and 19.8% of preterms admitted with a diagnosis of EONS, asphyxia, and RDS, respectively. Conclusion. WBC and platelet counts were the most common to be associated with EONS, asphyxia, and RDS. Further study is recommended to determine the effect of abnormal hematologic profile on the outcome of preterm babies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bogale Worku
- Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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9
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Eshetu B, Gashaw M, Solomon S, Berhane M, Molla K, Abebe T, Gizaw S, Abdissa A, Abayneh M, Goldenberg RL, Tigabu Z, Mekasha A, Worku B, McClure EM, Nigusse AK, Muhe LM. Bacterial Isolates and Resistance Patterns in Preterm Infants with Sepsis in Selected Hospitals in Ethiopia: A Longitudinal Observational Study. Glob Pediatr Health 2020; 7:2333794X20953318. [PMID: 33062808 PMCID: PMC7536471 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x20953318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Neonatal sepsis is the third leading cause of neonatal mortality, behind prematurity and intrapartum-related complications. The main objectives of this study are to assess the proportion of sepsis in preterm newborns and identify the etiologic agents and their antibiotic sensitivity patterns. Methods: A longitudinal observational study was done from July 2016 to May 2018. Whenever clinical diagnosis of sepsis was made, blood cultures and antibiotic susceptibility tests were done. Result: We did 690 blood cultures, 255 (36.9%) showing bacterial growth. The most commonly isolated bacteria were Klebsiella species 78 (36.6%), Coagulase negative Staphylococcus 42 (19.7%) and Staphylococcus aureus 39 (18.3%). Gram-positive bacteria showed high resistance to penicillin (98.9%) and ceftriaxone (91.3%) whereas Gram-negative bacteria were highly resistant to gentamicin (83.2%) and ceftriaxone (83.2%). Conclusion: Resistance to the more commonly used antibiotics such as ampicillin and gentamycin was very high, necessitating reconsideration of the empiric use of these antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beza Eshetu
- Jimma University College of Public Health and Medical Sciences, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Mulatu Gashaw
- Jimma University College of Public Health and Medical Sciences, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Semaria Solomon
- St Paul Millennium Medical College Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Melkamu Berhane
- Jimma University College of Public Health and Medical Sciences, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | | | - Tamrat Abebe
- Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Gizaw
- Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemseged Abdissa
- Jimma University College of Public Health and Medical Sciences, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Mahlet Abayneh
- St Paul Millennium Medical College Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Amha Mekasha
- Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bogale Worku
- Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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10
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Hailu R, Desta T, Bekuretsion Y, Bezabih M, Alemu A, Bekele T, Abebe B, Asefa M, Tigabu Z, Girma Y, Eshetu B, Abayneh M, Mekasha A, Nigussie AK, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL, Muhe LM. Minimally Invasive Tissue Sampling in Preterm Deaths: A Validation Study. Glob Pediatr Health 2020; 7:2333794X20953263. [PMID: 32923527 PMCID: PMC7457683 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x20953263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncertainty about the causes of neonatal deaths impedes achieving global health targets to reduce mortality. Complete diagnostic autopsy (CDA) is the gold standard to determine cause of death. However, it is often difficult to perform in high-burden, low-income settings. Validations of more feasible methods to determine cause of death are needed. This prospective, multi-center study in Ethiopia assessed the validity of the minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) approach to contribute to causes of death in preterm neonates compared to CDA. The MITS and CDA of 105 cases were reviewed. The MITS sampling success for lungs and liver was 100% and 84%, respectively. The kidney and brain had sampling successes of 58% each. MITS showed good agreement with CDA for the diagnosis of hyaline membrane disease (kappa = 0.78), and moderate to substantial agreement for pneumonia and pulmonary hemorrhage (kappa = 0.59 and 0.68, respectively). Even though CDA is the gold standard in identifying the cause of death, we believe that the MITS method can be a useful alternative method in supporting determination of cause of death in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Messele Bezabih
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | - Mesfin Asefa
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zemene Tigabu
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Yonas Girma
- Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Beza Eshetu
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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11
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Demtse AG, Pfister RE, Nigussie AK, McClure EM, Ferede YG, Tazu Bonger Z, Mekasha A, Demisse AG, Gidi NW, Metaferia G, Worku B, Goldenberg RL, Muhe LM. Hypothermia in Preterm Newborns: Impact on Survival. Glob Pediatr Health 2020; 7:2333794X20957655. [PMID: 32974416 PMCID: PMC7493265 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x20957655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Globally, prematurity is the leading cause of neonatal mortality, and hypothermia is one of its contributing factors. The goal of this study was to determine the association between hypothermia and mortality. Methods. A prospective, multi-center, descriptive clinical study was conducted in 5 hospitals in Ethiopia. Axillary temperatures were taken at the time of admission to the newborn intensive care units (NICU) and followed during the NICU stay. Results. A total of 3852 premature neonates (<37 weeks) were admitted to the NICUs from July 2016 to May 2018. Of these infants, 1109 (28.8%) died and 2991 (79.6%) had hypothermia. Hypothermia was associated with perinatal asphyxia (89.5%), RDS (86.2%), and resuscitation at birth (82.7%). Admission temperatures in preterm newborns were inversely associated with mortality and morbidity. Conclusion. Hypothermia at admission is associated with neonatal mortality in premature neonates in Ethiopia. RDS and perinatal asphyxia were the main factors associated with hypothermia. The very high prevalence and association with mortality warrants quality improvement interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gesit Metaferia
- St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bogale Worku
- Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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12
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Gidi NW, Mekasha A, Nigussie AK, Goldenberg RL, McClure EM, Worku B, Amaru GM, Tazu Bonger Z, Demtse AG, Kebede ZT, Siebeck M, Genzel-Boroviczény O, Muhe LM. Preterm Nutrition and Clinical Outcomes. Glob Pediatr Health 2020; 7:2333794X20937851. [PMID: 32782918 PMCID: PMC7383644 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x20937851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. In low-income countries, preterm nutrition is often inadequately addressed. The aim of the study was to assess the patterns of feeding and associated clinical outcomes of preterm neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units in Ethiopia. Method. This was a multicenter, prospective study. Infants' clinical characteristics at birth, daily monitoring of feeding history, and weight measurements were collected. An outcome assessment was completed at 28 days. Result. For this analysis, 2560 infants (53% male) were eligible. The mean (SD) gestational age was 33.1 (2.2) weeks. During the hospital stay the proportion of infants on breast milk only, preterm formula, term formula, and mixed feeding was 58%, 27.4%, 1.6%, and 34.1%, respectively. Delay in enteral feeding was associated with increased risk of death (odds ratio [OR] = 1.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.33-2.78; P < .001) and (OR = 5.06, 95% CI = 3.23-7.87; P < .001) for 1 to 3 and 4 to 6 days of delay in enteral feeding, respectively, after adjusting for possible confounders. The length of delay in enteral feeding was associated with increased risk of hypoglycemia (OR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.1-1.2; P = .005). The mortality rate was lower in hospitals providing preterm formula more often (P = .04). Half of the infants continued losing weight at the time of discharge. Conclusion. Delayed enteral feeding significantly increases the risk of mortality before discharge and hypoglycemia in preterm infants in resource-limited settings. Ensuring adequate nutritional support of preterm infants is highly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Bogale Worku
- Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Gesit M. Amaru
- St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | - Matthias Siebeck
- Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
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Muhe LM, McClure EM, Nigussie AK, Mekasha A, Worku B, Worku A, Demtse A, Eshetu B, Tigabu Z, Gizaw MA, Workneh N, Girma A, Asefa M, Portales R, Bekele T, Bezabih M, Metaferia G, Gashaw M, Abebe B, Berta H, Alemu A, Desta T, Hailu R, Gebreyesus G, Aynalem S, Abdissa AL, Pfister R, Bonger ZT, Gizaw S, Abebe T, Berhane MA, Bekuretsion Y, Dhaded S, Patterson J, Goldenberg RL. Major causes of death in preterm infants in selected hospitals in Ethiopia (SIP): a prospective, cross-sectional, observational study. Lancet Glob Health 2020; 7:e1130-e1138. [PMID: 31303299 PMCID: PMC6639243 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(19)30220-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal deaths now account for 47% of all deaths in children younger than 5 years globally. More than a third of newborn deaths are due to preterm birth complications, which is the leading cause of death. Understanding the causes and factors contributing to neonatal deaths is needed to identify interventions that will reduce mortality. We aimed to establish the major causes of preterm mortality in preterm infants in the first 28 days of life in Ethiopia. METHODS We did a prospective, cross-sectional, observational study in five hospitals in Ethiopia. Study participants were preterm infants born in the study hospitals at younger than 37 gestational weeks. Infants whose gestational age could not be reliably estimated and those born as a result of induced abortion were excluded from the study. Data were collected on maternal and obstetric history, clinical maternal and neonatal conditions, and laboratory investigations. For neonates who died of those enrolled, consent was requested from parents for post-mortem examinations (both complete diagnostic autopsy and minimally invasive tissue sampling). An independent panel of experts established the primary and contributory causes of preterm mortality with available data. FINDINGS Between July 1, 2016, to May 31, 2018, 4919 preterm infants were enrolled in the study and 3852 were admitted to neonatal intensive care units. By 28 days of post-natal age, 1109 (29%) of those admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit died. Complete diagnostic autopsy was done in 441 (40%) and minimally invasive tissue sampling in 126 (11%) of the neonatal intensive care unit deaths. The main primary causes of death in the 1109 infants were established as respiratory distress syndrome (502 [45%]); sepsis, pneumonia and meningitis (combined as neonatal infections; 331 [30%]), and asphyxia (151 [14%]). Hypothermia was the most common contributory cause of preterm mortality (770 [69%]). The highest mortality occurred in infants younger than 28 weeks of gestation (89 [86%] of 104), followed by infants aged 28-31 weeks (512 [54%] of 952), 32-34 weeks (349 [18%] of 1975), and 35-36 weeks (159 [8%] of 1888). INTERPRETATION Three conditions accounted for 89% of all deaths among preterm infants in Ethiopia. Scale-up interventions are needed to prevent or treat these conditions. Further research is required to develop effective and affordable interventions to prevent and treat the major causes of preterm death. FUNDING Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu M Muhe
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Elizabeth M McClure
- Social, Statistical and Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Amha Mekasha
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bogale Worku
- Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asrat Demtse
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Mahlet A Gizaw
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Mesfin Asefa
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ramon Portales
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Gesit Metaferia
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | | | - Tigist Desta
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Rahell Hailu
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Goitom Gebreyesus
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sara Aynalem
- St Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Riccardo Pfister
- Neonatology Unit, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Solomon Gizaw
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tamrat Abebe
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Yonas Bekuretsion
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sangappa Dhaded
- Women's and Children's Health Research Unit, KAHER, J N Medical College, Belgaum, India
| | - Janna Patterson
- Global Child Health and Life Support, American Academy of Pediatrics, Itasca, IL, USA
| | - Robert L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Gidi NW, Goldenberg RL, Nigussie AK, McClure E, Mekasha A, Worku B, Siebeck M, Genzel-Boroviczeny O, Muhe LM. Incidence and associated factors of extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) in preterm infants, a cross-sectional study in selected NICUs in Ethiopia. BMJ Paediatr Open 2020; 4:e000765. [PMID: 33094173 PMCID: PMC7552851 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2020-000765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm infants have high risk of developing growth restriction and long-term complications. Enteral feeding is often delayed in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) for the fear of feeding intolerance and the associated necrotising enterocolitis, and recent advances in nutritional support are unavailable in low-income countries. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and associated factors of extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) among preterm infants in selected NICUs in Ethiopia. METHOD This was a cross-sectional study involving a subgroup analysis of preterm infants admitted to hospitals, from a multicentre descriptive study of cause of illness and death in preterm infants in Ethiopia, conducted from 2016 to 2018. EUGR was defined as weight at discharge Z-scores <-1.29 for corrected age. Clinical profiles of the infants were analysed for associated factors. SPSS V.23 software was used for analysis with a significance level of 5% and 95% CI. RESULT From 436 preterm infants included in the analysis, 223 (51%) were male, 224 (51.4%) very low birth weight (VLBW) and 185 (42.4%) small for gestational age (SGA). The mean (SD) of weight for corrected age Z-score at the time of discharge was -2.5 (1.1). The incidence of EUGR was 86.2%. Infants who were SGA, VLBW and longer hospital stay over 21 days had increased risk of growth restriction (p-value<0.01). SGA infants had a 15-fold higher risk of developing EUGR at the time of discharge from hospital than those who were appropriate or large for gestational age (OR (95% CI)=15.2 (4.6 to 50.1). CONCLUSION The majority of the infants had EUGR at the time of discharge from the hospital, which indicates suboptimal nutrition. Revision of national guidelines for preterm infants feeding and improvement in clinical practice is highly required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Netsanet Workneh Gidi
- CIHLMU Center for International Health, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Robert L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Assaye K Nigussie
- Newborn & Child Health, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elizabeth McClure
- Center for Clinical Research Network Coordination, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amha Mekasha
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Bogale Worku
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia.,Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Matthias Siebeck
- Institute for Medical Education, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia
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Gidi NW, Goldenberg RL, Nigussie AK, McClure E, Mekasha A, Worku B, Siebeck M, Genzel-Boroviczeny O, Muhe LM. Comparison of neonatal outcomes of small for gestational age and appropriate for gestational age preterm infants born at 28-36 weeks of gestation: a multicentre study in Ethiopia. BMJ Paediatr Open 2020; 4:e000740. [PMID: 32984553 PMCID: PMC7493091 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2020-000740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to assess morbidity and mortality pattern of small for gestational age (SGA) preterm infants in comparison to appropriate for gestational age (AGA) preterm infants of similar gestational age. METHOD We compared neonatal outcomes of 1336, 1:1 matched, singleton SGA and AGA preterm infants based on their gestational age using data from the study 'Causes of Illness and Death of Preterm Infants in Ethiopia (SIP)'. Data were analysed using SPSS V.23. ORs and 95% CIs and χ2 tests were done, p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULT The majority of the infants (1194, 89%) were moderate to late preterm (32-36 weeks of gestation), 763 (57%) were females. Male preterm infants had higher risk of being SGA than female infants (p<0.001). SGA infants had increased risk of hypoglycaemic (OR and 95% CI 1.6 (1.2 to 2.0), necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) 2.3 (1.2 to 4.1), polycythaemia 3.0 (1.6 to 5.4), late-onset neonatal sepsis (LOS) 3.6 (1.1 to 10.9)) and prolonged hospitalisation 2.9 (2.0 to 4.2). The rates of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), apnoea and mortality were similar in the SGA and AGA groups. CONCLUSION Neonatal complications such as hypoglycaemic, NEC, LOS, polycythaemia and prolonged hospitalisation are more common in SGA infants, while rates of RDS and mortality are similar in SGA and AGA groups. Early recognition of SGA status, high index of suspicion and screening for complications associated and timely intervention to prevent complications need due consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Netsanet Workneh Gidi
- Pediatric and Child Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia.,Center for International Health, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Robert L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Assaye K Nigussie
- Newborn & Child Health, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elizabeth McClure
- Center for Clinical Research Network Coordination, RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amha Mekasha
- Pediatrics and Child Heath, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Bogale Worku
- Pediatrics and Child Heath, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia.,Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Matthias Siebeck
- Institute for Medical Education, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- Pediatrics and Child Heath, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia
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Eshetu B, Gashaw M, Berhane M, Abdissa A, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL, Muhe LM. Intravenous fluid contaminated with Klebsiella oxytoca as a source of sepsis in a preterm newborn: Case report. Am J Infect Control 2019; 47:840-842. [PMID: 30723029 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2018.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 12/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Advances in neonatal care have led to the increasing survival of smaller and sicker infants, but nosocomial infections continue to be a serious problem, associated with increased mortality rates, immediate and long-term morbidity, prolonged hospital stay, and increased cost of care. We report a case of hospital-acquired sepsis in a preterm baby secondary to Klebsiella oxytoca, resulting from contaminated intravenous fluid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beza Eshetu
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia.
| | - Mulatu Gashaw
- School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Melkamu Berhane
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Alemseged Abdissa
- School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Elizabeth M McClure
- Social, Statistical and Environmental Health Sciences, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Robert L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Lulu M Muhe
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Maternal, Newborn, Child Health and Childhood HIV, TB and Malaria, Geneva, Switzerland
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Muhe LM, Iriya N, Bundala F, Azayo M, Bakari MJ, Hussein A, John T. Evaluation of distance learning IMCI training program: the case of Tanzania. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:547. [PMID: 30001709 PMCID: PMC6044076 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3336-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The standard 11-days IMCI (Integrated Management of Childhood Illness) training course (standard IMCI) has faced barriers such as high cost to scale up. Distance learning IMCI training program was developed as an alternative to the standard IMCI course. This article presents the evaluation results of the implementation of distance learning IMCI training program in Tanzania. METHODS From December 2012 to end of June 2015, a total of 4806 health care providers (HCP) were trained on distance learning IMCI from 1427 health facilities {HF) in 68 districts in Tanzania. Clinical assessments were done at the end of each course and on follow up visits of health facilities 4 to 6 weeks after training. The results of those assessments are used to compare performance of health care providers trained in distance learning IMCI with those trained in the standard IMCI course. Statistical analysis is done by comparing proportions of those with appropriate performances using four WHO priority performance indicators as well as cost of conducting the courses. In addition, the perspectives of health care providers, IMCI course facilitators, policy makers and partners were gathered using either focussed group discussions or structured questionnaires. RESULTS Distance learning IMCI allowed clusters of training courses to take place in parallel, allowing rapid expansion of IMCI coverage. Health care providers trained in distance learning IMCI performed equally well as those trained in the standard IMCI course in assessing Main Symptoms, treating sick children and counselling caretakers appropriately. They performed better in assessing Danger Signs. Distance learning IMCI gave a 70% reduction in cost of conducting the training courses. CONCLUSION Distance learning IMCI is an alternative to scaling up IMCI as it provides an effective option with significant cost reduction in conducting training courses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu M Muhe
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Addis Ababa University, P.O.Box 1768, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Nemes Iriya
- Child and Adolescent Health, World Health Organization Country Office, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Mary Azayo
- UNICEF Country Office, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Theopista John
- Child and Adolescent Health, World Health Organization Country Office, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
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Muhe LM, McClure EM, Mekasha A, Worku B, Worku A, Dimtse A, Gebreyesus G, Tigabu Z, Abayneh M, Workneh N, Eshetu B, Girma A, Asefa M, Portales R, Arayaselassie M, Gebrehiwot Y, Bekele T, Bezabih M, Metaferia G, Gashaw M, Abebe B, Geleta A, Shehibo A, Hailu Y, Berta H, Alemu A, Desta T, Hailu R, Patterson J, Nigussie AK, Goldenberg RL. A Prospective Study of Causes of Illness and Death in Preterm Infants in Ethiopia: The SIP Study Protocol. Reprod Health 2018; 15:116. [PMID: 29945680 PMCID: PMC6020308 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-018-0555-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With nearly 15 million annual preterm births globally, preterm birth is the most common cause of neonatal death. Forty to 60 % of neonatal deaths are directly or indirectly associated with preterm mortality. As countries aim to meet the Sustainable Development Goals to reduce neonatal mortality, significant reductions in preterm mortality are needed. This study aims to identify the common causes of preterm illness and their contribution to preterm mortality in low-resource settings. This article will describe the methods used to undertake the study. METHODS This is a prospective, multi-centre, descriptive clinical study. Socio-demographic, obstetric, and maternal factors, and clinical and laboratory findings will be documented. The major causes of preterm mortality will be identified using clinical, laboratory, imaging, and autopsy methods and use the national Ethiopian guidelines on management of preterm infants including required investigations to reach final diagnoses. The study will document the clinical and management protocols followed in these settings. The approach consists of clinical examinations and monitoring, laboratory investigations, and determination of primary and contributory causes of mortality through both clinical means and by post-mortem examinations. An independent panel of experts will validate the primary and contributory causes of mortality. To obtain the estimated sample size of 5000 preterm births, the study will be undertaken in five hospitals in three regions of Ethiopia, which are geographically distributed across the country. All preterm infants who are either born or transferred to these hospitals will be eligible for the study. Three methods (last menstrual period, physical examination using the New Ballard Score, and ultrasound) will be used to determine gestational age. All clinical procedures will be conducted per hospital protocol and informed consent will be taken from parents or caretakers prior to their participation in the study as well as for autopsy if the infant dies. DISCUSSION This study will determine the major causes of death and illness among hospitalized preterm infants in a low-resource setting. The result will inform policy makers and implementers of areas that can be prioritized in order to contribute to a significant reduction in neonatal mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu M. Muhe
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Amha Mekasha
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bogale Worku
- Ethiopian Pediatric Society, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asrat Dimtse
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Goitom Gebreyesus
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mahlet Abayneh
- St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | - Mesfin Asefa
- St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ramon Portales
- St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Yirgu Gebrehiwot
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Gesit Metaferia
- St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hailu Berta
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Tigist Desta
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Rahel Hailu
- College of Medical Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Theodoratou E, McAllister DA, Reed C, Adeloye DO, Rudan I, Muhe LM, Madhi SA, Campbell H, Nair H. Global, regional, and national estimates of pneumonia burden in HIV-infected children in 2010: a meta-analysis and modelling study. Lancet Infect Dis 2014; 14:1250-8. [PMID: 25455992 PMCID: PMC4242006 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(14)70990-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, pneumonia is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in children younger than 5 years. Underlying HIV infection is an important risk factor for pneumonia morbidity and mortality in children. There are, however, no global or country level estimates of pneumonia burden in HIV-infected children. We assessed the role of HIV in pneumonia incidence and mortality and estimated the number of pneumonia cases and deaths in HIV-infected children younger than 5 years in 133 high pneumonia-burden countries in 2010. METHODS We estimated the risk of hospital admission and case fatality rate caused by pneumonia in HIV-infected children compared with HIV-uninfected children from a systematic review of studies published in Medline, Embase, and Global Health between Jan 1, 1980, and Aug 31, 2013. We estimated nationwide pneumonia incidence and mortality with two different models that incorporated several risk factors for paediatric pneumonia hospital admission and mortality (including HIV infection). We then estimated the number of pneumonia episodes and deaths that occurred in HIV-infected children in 2010. FINDINGS The odds ratio (OR) for hospital admission for all-cause pneumonia in HIV-infected children compared with HIV-uninfected children was 6·5 (95% CI 5·9-7·2). The risk of death was higher in children with pneumonia and HIV compared with those with pneumonia only (OR 5·9, 95% CI 2·7-12·7). In 2010, 1·4 million pneumonia episodes (uncertainty range [UR] 0·6 million to 3·3 million) and 88 000 pneumonia deaths (UR 47 400-153 000) occurred in HIV-infected children in low-income countries. Of these, 1·2 million pneumonia episodes (UR 0·5 million-2·7 million) and 85 400 deaths (UR 46 000-147 300) were directly attributable to HIV. 1·3 million (90%) pneumonia episodes and 82 400 (93%) pneumonia deaths in HIV-infected children aged younger than 5 years occurred in the WHO African region. INTERPRETATION Globally, a small proportion of pneumonia episodes and pneumonia deaths occur in HIV-infected children. However, in the highest HIV-burden countries in sub-Saharan Africa (ie, Swaziland, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe) up to a fifth of all pneumonia cases and 60% of pneumonia deaths occur in HIV-infected children. In these countries, major reductions in child pneumonia mortality can be achieved only if the systemic challenges plaguing the health system (poor coverage of early infant testing for HIV, of antiretroviral drugs in pregnant women and young children, of co-trimoxazole prophylaxis, and of pneumococcal vaccination) can be overcome. FUNDING WHO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evropi Theodoratou
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - David A McAllister
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Craig Reed
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Davies O Adeloye
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Igor Rudan
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Lulu M Muhe
- Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Shabir A Madhi
- Centre for Respiratory Diseases and Meningitis, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Sandringham, South Africa; Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit, Medical Research Council, University of Witwatersrand, Witwatersrand, South Africa; Department of Science and Technology, University of Witwatersrand, Witwatersrand, South Africa; Vaccine Preventable Diseases, National Research Foundation, University of Witwatersrand, Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - Harry Campbell
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Harish Nair
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Public Health Foundation of India, New Delhi, India.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In the absence of antiretroviral therapy (ART), over 50% of HIV-infected infants progress to AIDS and death by 2 years of age. However, there are challenges to initiation of ART in early life, including the possibility of drug resistance in the context of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programs, a paucity of drug choices , uncertain dosing for some medications and long-term toxicities. Key management decisions include when to start ART, what regimen to start, and whether and when to substitute drugs or interrupt therapy. This review, an update of a previous review, aims to summarize the currently available evidence on this topic and inform the ART management in HIV-infected children less than 3 years of age. OBJECTIVES To evaluate 1) when to start ART in young children (less than 3 years); 2) what ART to start with, comparing first-line non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) and protease inhibitor (PI)-based regimens; and 3) whether alternative strategies should be used to optimize antiretroviral treatment in this population: induction (initiation with 4 drugs rather than 3 drugs) followed by maintenance ART, interruption of ART and substitution of PI with NNRTI drugs once virological suppression is achieved on a PI-based regimen. SEARCH METHODS Search methodsWe searched for published studies in the Cochrane HIV/AIDS Review Group Trials Register, The Cochrane Library, Pubmed, EMBASE and CENTRAL. We screened abstracts from relevant conference proceedings and searched for unpublished and ongoing trials in clinical trial registries (ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform). SELECTION CRITERIA We identified RCTs that recruited perinatally HIV-infected children under 3 years of age without restriction of setting. We rejected trials that did not include children less than 3 years of age, did not provide stratified outcomes for those less than 3 years or did not evaluate either timing of ART initiation, choice of drug regimen or treatment switch/interruption strategy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently applied study selection criteria, assessed study quality and extracted data. Effects were assessed using the hazard ratio (HR) for time-to-event outcomes, relative risk for dichotomous outcomes and weighted mean difference for continuous outcomes. MAIN RESULTS A search of the databases identified a total of 735 unique, previously unreviewed studies, of which 731 were excluded to leave 4 new studies to incorporate into the review. Four additional studies were identified in conference proceedings, for a total of 8 studies addressing when to start treatment (n=2), what to start (n=3), whether to substitute lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) with nevirapine (NVP) (n=1), whether to use an induction-maintenance ART strategy (n=1) and whether to interrupt treatment (n=1).Treatment initiation in asymptomatic infants with good immunological status was associated with a 75% reduction (HR=0.25; 95%CI 0.12-0.51; p=0.0002) in mortality or disease progression in the one trial with sufficient power to address this question. In a smaller pilot trial, median CD4 cell count was not significantly different between early and deferred treatment groups 12 months after ART.Regardless of previous exposure to nevirapine for PMTCT, the hazard for treatment failure at 24 weeks was 1.79 (95%CI 1.33, 2.41) times higher in children starting ART with a NVP-based regimen compared to those starting with a LPV/r-based regimen (p=0.0001) with no clear difference in the effect observed for children younger or older than 1 year. The hazard for virological failure at 24 weeks was overall 1.84 (95%CI 1.29, 2.63) times higher for children starting ART with a NVP-based regimen compared to those starting with a LPV/r-based regimen (p=0.0008) with a larger difference in time to virological failure (or death) between the NVP and LPV/r-based regimens when ART was initiated in the first year of life.Infants starting a LPV/r regimen and achieving sustained virological suppression who then substituted LPV/r with NVP after median 9 months on LPV/r were less likely to develop virological failure (defined as at least one VL greater than 50 copies/mL) compared with infants who started and stayed on LPV/r (HR=0.62, 95%CI 0.41, 0.92, p=0.02). However the hazard for confirmed failure at a higher viral load (>1000 copies/mL) was greater among children who switched to NVP compared to those who remained on LPV/r (HR=10.19, 95% CI 2.36, 43.94, p=0.002).Children undergoing an induction-maintenance ART approach with a 4-drug NNRTI-based regimen for 36 weeks, followed by 3-drug ART, had significantly greater CD4 rise than children receiving a standard 3-drug NNRTI-based ART at 36 weeks (mean difference 1.70 [95%CI 0.61, 2.79] p=0.002) and significantly better viral load response at 24 weeks (OR 1.99 [95%CI 1.09, 3.62] p=0.02). However, the immunological and virological benefits were short-term.The one trial of treatment interruption that compared children initiating continuous ART from infancy with children interrupting ART was terminated early because the duration of treatment interruption was less than 3 months in most infants. Children interrupting treatment had similar growth and occurrence of serious adverse events as those in the continuous arm. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS ART initiation in asymptomatic children under 1 year of age reduces morbidity and mortality, but it remains unclear whether there are clinical benefits to starting ART in asymptomatic children diagnosed with HIV infection between 1-3 years.The available evidence shows that a LPV/r-based first-line regimen is more efficacious than a NVP-based regimen, regardless of PMTCT exposure status. New formulations of LPV/r are urgently required to enable new WHO recommendations to be implemented. An alternative approach to long-term LPV/r is substituting LPV/r with NVP once virological suppression is achieved. This strategy looked promising in the one trial undertaken, but may be difficult to implement in the absence of routine viral load testing.A 4-drug induction-maintenance approach showed short-term virological and immunological benefits during the induction phase but, in the absence of sustained benefits, is not recommended as a routine treatment strategy. Treatment interruption following early ART initiation in infancy was challenging for children who were severely immunocompromised in the context of poor clinical immunological condition at ART initiation due to the short duration of interruption, and is therefore not practical in ART treatment programmes where close monitoring is not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lulu M Muhe
- World Health Organization20 Avenue AppiaGenevaSwitzerland1211
| | - Denis Tindyebwa
- African Network for the Care of Children Affected by HIV/AIDS (ANECCA)KampalaUganda
| | - Elaine Abrams
- Columbia University. Mailman School of Public HealthEpidemiology and Pediatrics722 W 168th StNew YorkNew YorkUSA10032
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Penazzato M, Prendergast AJ, Muhe LM, Tindyebwa D, Abrams EJ. Optimization of antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected children under 3 years of age: a systematic review. AIDS 2014; 28 Suppl 2:S137-46. [PMID: 24849473 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000000240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of young HIV-infected children is challenging because of rapid disease progression, high viral loads and few drug options. This review was undertaken to update evidence on the management of young HIV-infected children and to inform the development of the 2013 WHO guidelines for antiretroviral therapy (ART) in low and middle-income countries. DESIGN A systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS We identified and critically assessed randomized controlled trials that evaluated treatment strategies in perinatally HIV-infected infants and young children (aged <3 years). RESULTS Eight studies were included. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation in asymptomatic infants led to 74% reduction in mortality or disease progression [hazard ratio 0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.18-0.74, P = 0.0002]. Regardless of previous exposure to prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT), treatment failure at 24 weeks was more likely in children starting nevirapine-based than in those starting lopinavir/ritonavir (lopinavir/r)-based ART (hazard ratio 1.79, 95% CI 1.33-2.41, P = 0.0001). Infants starting lopinavir/r-based ART and substituting lopinavir/r with nevirapine once virologic suppression was achieved were less likely to experience viral load more than 50 copies/ml (hazard ratio 0.62, 95% CI 0.41-0.92, P = 0.02) but more likely to have confirmed virologic failure (>1000 copies/ml) than those remaining on lopinavir/r (hazard ratio 10.19, 95% CI 2.36-43.94, P = 0.002). Children receiving induction-maintenance ART (four-drug NNRTI-based regimen for 36 weeks followed by three-drug ART) showed better short-term immunologic and virologic responses, but no long-term benefits. The only trial comparing continuous ART from infancy with interrupted ART beyond infancy was terminated early because the duration of treatment interruption was less than 3 months in most infants. CONCLUSION ART initiation in asymptomatic infants reduces morbidity and mortality. Lopinavir/r-based first-line ART is superior to nevirapine-based regimens in young children, regardless of PMTCT exposure, but lopinavir/r use is challenging. Substituting lopinavir/r with nevirapine following virologic suppression may be feasible where viral load testing is available. Considering current evidence, induction-maintenance and treatment interruption strategies are not recommended. This review contributed to the evidence base for the 2013 WHO guidelines on antiretroviral therapy, which recommend that all children below 3 years start lopinavir/r-based ART and that lopinavir/r can be substituted with nevirapine once sustained virologic suppression is achieved.
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Siegfried N, Davies MA, Penazzato M, Muhe LM, Egger M. Optimal time for initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV-infected, treatment-naive children aged 2 to 5 years old. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013; 10:CD010309. [PMID: 24114324 PMCID: PMC3950819 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010309.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) comprising three antiretroviral medications from at least two classes of drugs is the current standard treatment for HIV infection in adults and children. Current World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for antiretroviral therapy recommend early treatment regardless of immunologic thresholds or the clinical condition for all infants (less than one years of age) and children under the age of two years. For children aged two to five years current WHO guidelines recommend (based on low quality evidence) that clinical and immunological thresholds be used to identify those who need to start cART (advanced clinical stage or CD4 counts ≤ 750 cells/mm(3) or per cent CD4 ≤ 25%). This Cochrane review will inform the current available evidence regarding the optimal time for treatment initiation in children aged two to five years with the goal of informing the revision of WHO 2013 recommendations on when to initiate cART in children. OBJECTIVES To assess the evidence for the optimal time to initiate cART in treatment-naive, HIV-infected children aged 2 to 5 years. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, the AEGIS conference database, specific relevant conferences, www.clinicaltrials.gov, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry platform and reference lists of articles. The date of the most recent search was 30 September 2012. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared immediate with deferred initiation of cART, and prospective cohort studies which followed children from enrolment to start of cART and on cART. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors considered studies for inclusion in the review, assessed the risk of bias, and extracted data on the primary outcome of death from all causes and several secondary outcomes, including incidence of CDC category C and B clinical events and per cent CD4 cells (CD4%) at study end. For RCTs we calculated relative risks (RR) or mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). For cohort data, we extracted relative risks with 95% CI from adjusted analyses. We combined results from RCTs using a random effects model and examined statistical heterogeneity. MAIN RESULTS Two RCTs in HIV-positive children aged 1 to 12 years were identified. One trial was the pilot study for the larger second trial and both compared initiation of cART regardless of clinical-immunological conditions with deferred initiation until per cent CD4 dropped to <15%. The two trials were conducted in Thailand, and Thailand and Cambodia, respectively. Unpublished analyses of the 122 children enrolled at ages 2 to 5 years were included in this review. There was one death in the immediate cART group and no deaths in the deferred group (RR 2.9; 95% CI 0.12 to 68.9). In the subgroup analysis of children aged 24 to 59 months, there was one CDC C event in each group (RR 0.96; 95% CI 0.06 to 14.87) and 8 and 11 CDC B events in the immediate and deferred groups respectively (RR 0.95; 95% CI 0.24 to 3.73). In this subgroup, the mean difference in CD4 per cent at study end was 5.9% (95% CI 2.7 to 9.1). One cohort study from South Africa, which compared the effect of delaying cART for up to 60 days in 573 HIV-positive children starting tuberculosis treatment (median age 3.5 years), was also included. The adjusted hazard ratios for the effect on mortality of delaying ART for more than 60 days was 1.32 (95% CI 0.55 to 3.16). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This systematic review shows that there is insufficient evidence from clinical trials in support of either early or CD4-guided initiation of ART in HIV-infected children aged 2 to 5 years. Programmatic issues such as the retention in care of children in ART programmes in resource-limited settings will need to be considered when formulating WHO 2013 recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandi Siegfried
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mary-Ann Davies
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research (CIDER), School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Martina Penazzato
- World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit, London, UK
| | - Lulu M Muhe
- World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Egger
- Institute of Social Medicine, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
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Goga AE, Muhe LM, Forsyth K, Chopra M, Aboubaker S, Martines J, Mason EM. Results of a multi-country exploratory survey of approaches and methods for IMCI case management training. Health Res Policy Syst 2009; 7:18. [PMID: 19615080 PMCID: PMC2723104 DOI: 10.1186/1478-4505-7-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2009] [Accepted: 07/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Integrated Management of Childhood Illness Strategy (IMCI) is effective in improving management of sick children, and thus child survival. It is currently recommended that in-service IMCI case management training (ICMT) occur over 11-days; that the participant: facilitator ratio should be ≤4:1 and that at least 30% of ICMT time be spent on clinical practice. In 2006–2007, approximately ten years after IMCI implementation, we conducted a multi-country exploratory questionnaire survey to document country experiences with ICMT, and to determine the acceptability of shortening duration of ICMT. Methods Questionnaires (QA) were sent to national IMCI focal persons in 27 purposively-selected countries. To probe further, questionnaires (QB and QC respectively) were also sent to course-directors or facilitators and IMCI trainees, selected using snowball sampling after applying pre-defined criteria, in these countries. Questionnaires gathered quantitative and qualitative data. Results Thirty-three QA, 163 QB, 272 QC and two summaries were returned from 24 countries. All countries continued to adapt course content to local disease burden. All countries offer shorter ICMT courses, ranging from 3–10 days (commonest being 5–8 days). The shorter ICMT courses offer fewer exercises, more homework, less individual feedback and reduced clinical practice (<30% time). Whereas changes to course content were usually evidence-based, changes to training methodology and course duration evolved as pressure to expand implementation mounted. Participants varied in their self-reported skill and perception about each course. However, the varied methodology and integrated approach to management of illnesses were commonly cited as strengths of ICMT, and the chart booklet and clinical practice sessions were identified as critical components of ICMT. Four themes emerged from the qualitative work, viz. the current 11-day course is too expensive and should be shortened; advocacy around IMCI should increase; content should be regularly updated, new content areas should be introduced cautiously and more attention should be paid to skills-building rather than knowledge accumulation. Conclusion Whilst the 11-day ICMT course is still recommended, as efforts intensify to increase access to quality care and meet MDG4, standardized shorter ICMT courses, that include participatory methodologies and adequate clinical practice, could be acceptable globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameena E Goga
- Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, Parowvallei, Cape Town, South Africa.
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