Community Awareness Campaigns Research Articles

Protocol for the crowdsourced image-based morbidity hotspot surveillance for neglected tropical diseases (CIMS-NTDs).

Efficient NTDs elimination strategies require effective surveillance and targeted interventions. Traditional methods are costly and time-consuming, often failing to cover entire populations in case of movement restrictions. To address these challenges, a morbidity image-based surveillance system is being developed. This innovative approach which leverages the smartphone technology aims at simultaneous surveillance of multiple NTDs, enhancing cost-efficiency, reliability, and community involvement, particularly in areas with movement constraints. Moreover, it holds promise for post-elimination surveillance. The pilot of this method will be conducted across three states in southern Nigeria. It will target people affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases and members of their communities. The new surveillance method will be introduced to target communities in the selected states through community stakeholder's advocacy meetings and awareness campaigns. The pilot which is set to span eighteen months, entails sensitizing NTDs-affected individuals and community members using signposts, posters, and handbills, to capture photos of NTDs manifestations upon notice using smartphones. These images, along with pertinent demographic information, will be transmitted to a dedicated server through WhatsApp or Telegram accounts. The received images will be reviewed and organized at backend and then forwarded to a panel of experts for identification and annotation to specific NTDs. Data generated, along with geocoordinate information, will be used to create NTDs morbidity hotspot maps using ArcGIS. Accompanying metadata will be used to generate geographic and demographic distributions of various NTDs identified. To protect privacy, people will be encouraged to send manifestation photos of the affected body part only without any identifiable features. NTDs prevalence data obtained using conventional surveillance methods from both the pilot and selected control states during the pilot period will be compared with data from the CIMS-NTDs method to determine its effectiveness. It is expected that an effective, privacy-conscious, population inclusive new method for NTDs surveillance, with the potential to yield real-time data for the identification of morbidity hotspots and distribution patterns of NTDs will be established. The results will provide insights into the effectiveness of the new surveillance method in comparison to traditional approaches, potentially advancing NTDs elimination strategies.

Preterm Birth and Its Associated Factors among Mothers Delivered at Lira Regional Referral Hospital in Lira District

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of preterm birth and its associated factors among mothers delivered at Lira Regional Referral Hospital in Lira District in 2022. A hospital-based cross-sectional study and non-probability systematic sampling technique were employed to assess the prevalence of preterm birth and its associated factors among mothers delivered at Lira Regional Referral Hospital between August 2022 and November 2022. The normative sample was N-325; however, only 278 were analysed. Preterm birth and its associated factors were measured using a face-to-face pre-test interview, and additional data was extracted from medical records, an antenatal care chart, and a baby chart. Data was collected, coded, sorted, and processed using manual compilation and analysed using SPSS Version 25. Results showed that the prevalence of preterm birth was at 14%, mid-upper arm circumference p>0.000, baby delivered p>0.002, birth weight p>0.000, antenatal care number of times attended p>0.001, urinary tract infection p>0.000, premature rupture of membrane p>0.000, antepartum haemorrhage p>0.000, and pregnancy-induced hypertension p>0.000 were significantly associated with preterm birth. Preterm birth was more likely to occur in mothers who didn’t attend ANC and was higher in mothers who got PROM, UTI, APH, and PIH. Early detection of diseases, especially hypertension, hyperemesis gravidarum, and UTI, as well as improving health care quality delivery and carrying out community health education and awareness campaigns, can reduce the prevalence of preterm birth. Keywords: Preterm birth, Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Mothers, Antenatal care, Hypertension.

Study of Mosquito Borne Deasease Found in Yavatmal Region

Abstract: Mosquito-borne diseases are a significant public health concern in the Yavatmal region of Maharashtra, India. Malaria, dengue fever, and Japanese encephalitis are among the prominent diseases transmitted by mosquitoes in this region. Malaria, caused by the Plasmodium parasite, is endemic in Yavatmal, with transmission occurring mainly during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Dengue fever, caused by the dengue virus and transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, has seen periodic outbreaks in the region, with increased incidence during the rainy season. Japanese encephalitis, caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus and transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, poses a threat to the population, particularly in rural areas. Several factors contribute to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases in the Yavatmal region, including inadequate sanitation, stagnant water bodies, deforestation, and climate change. Socioeconomic factors such as poverty and limited access to healthcare further exacerbate the problem. Control and prevention efforts in the region primarily focus on vector control measures, including insecticide spraying, larval source management, and the use of bed nets. Community education and awareness campaigns play a crucial role in promoting preventive behaviors such as the use of insect repellents and proper waste disposal. Challenges in addressing mosquito-borne diseases in Yavatmal include inadequate healthcare infrastructure, insufficient funding, and the emergence of insecticide resistance among mosquito populations. Collaborative efforts involving government agencies, healthcare providers, researchers, and community organizations are essential to effectively combat these diseases. Strengthening surveillance systems, improving access to diagnostic and treatment facilities, and implementing integrated vector management strategies are necessary steps towards reducing the burden of mosquito-borne diseases in the Yavatmal region and improving public health outcomes.

IJCM_389A: A community based cross-sectional study on perception, attitude, and stigma towards mental illness among the rural community in Mangalore

Introduction: Mental disorder is a behavioral pattern which causes either suffering or poor ability to function in ordinary life. According to WHO health report 2022, 970 million people suffer from mental illness globally. 80% people with mental illness live in low and middle-income countries, which is a matter of concern for India being the most populated country in the world. This study aims to assess the attitude and perception of people towards mental illness and to identify the presence of stigma towards mental illness in the community. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 individuals aged above 18 years from Jeppinamogaru, Boloor, Shiv Nagar and Neermarga of Mangalore. Data was collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire of the CAMI scale rates a total of 40 items on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = strongly agree to 5 = strongly disagree) and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results were expressed as proportions using appropriate tables and graphs. P< 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Out of 320 individuals assessed, 73.1% were females, with 50% aged over 45 years. The lower middle class constituted 35.3%, while only 0.6% belonged to the lower class. Awareness of mental illnesses was low, with only 42 individuals (13%) are knowledgeable. Most relied on behavior to identify mental illness, and 54.1% favored hospital treatment. 31.6% believed mental illness was genetically inherited as it is running through families. Medium stigma was prevalent across all domains of the CAMI scale, with the least stigma observed among the upper class. Conclusions: The study revealed low to medium level of stigma toward mental illness among lower and upper middle-class SEC individuals, alongside insufficient knowledge about mental health issues. Addressing these gaps, necessitates community awareness campaigns, enhanced education in schools, and increased accessibility to community-based mental health services and health camps.

Community-Based Strategies for Disaster Preparedness in Mauritius

Mauritius is Small Island Developing State (SIDS) of volcanic origin which lies in the South-West Indian Ocean Basin and is vulnerable to the consequences of global environmental challenges. The fourth priority action of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 is to consolidate disaster preparedness for an effective response and to have a Build Back Better agenda that will improve recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction. This research aimed at examining the disaster management system in Mauritius through community-based approaches. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre’s (NDRRMC) involvement with the community living in high-risk zones was investigated. This study used quantitative data gathered from secondary sources and included the number of field training simulation exercises, training of volunteers under the Community Disaster Response Programme (CDRP), awareness campaigns and formulation of contingency plans based on documentation across Mauritius. The NDRRMC identified 109 high-risk zones across Mauritius out of which 13.7 per cent benefitted from all four forms of mitigation activities. Results indicated that contingency plans in Mauritius were evidence-based and had been developed after identification of disaster risk in selected regions, and therefore, they were limited to some types of disasters only. Findings also revealed that flooding was the most common type of simulated disaster exercise undertaken. The greatest number of field simulation exercises was carried out in Poste de Flacq. Results also demonstrated that only 38.5% of the community were exposed to disaster-related awareness campaigns, making it the least common form of disaster risk reduction (DRR) activity in Mauritius.

Exploring and prioritising strategies for improving uptake of postnatal care services in Thyolo, Malawi: A qualitative study.

Although postnatal care services form a critical component of the cascade of care in maternal, newborn, and child health the uptake of these services has remained low worldwide. This study explored and prioritised the strategies for optimising the uptake of postnatal care (PNC) services in Malawi. A qualitative descriptive study followed by nominal group techniques was conducted at three health facilities in Malawi from July to December 2020 and in October 2021. We conducted focus group discussions among postnatal mothers, fathers, healthcare workers, elderly women, and grandmothers. We conducted in-depth interviews with midwives and key health managers. Nominal group techniques were used to prioritise the main strategies for the provision of PNC. The demand strategies include appointment date reminders, provision of free health passport books, community awareness campaigns, and involvement of men in the services. The supply strategies included training health providers, improving clinic operations: task-shifting and hours of operation, having infrastructure for the services, and linkage to other services. Having services delivered near end-user residences was a crosscutting strategy. Refresher training and improvement in the clinic operations especially on hours of operation, appointment date reminders, and linkage to care were the prioritised strategies. There is a need to use acceptable and contextualised strategies to optimise the uptake and delivery of postnatal care services. Educating the healthcare workers and the community on postnatal services is key to increasing the demand and supply of the services.

Community antibiotic consumption and associated factors in Lusaka district of Zambia: findings and implications for antimicrobial resistance and stewardship.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health crisis. This study assessed the general public's consumption of antibiotics and associated factors in the Lusaka district of Zambia. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 2038 participants between December 2022 and January 2023. Data were analysed using Stata 13.0. Multivariable regression techniques were used to determine the factors that influenced antibiotic consumption. Of the 2038 participants, 53.4% were female, and 51.5% had attended at least secondary school. Antibiotic use was 99.2%, of which 40.9% were appropriately used. Overall, 79.1% of antibiotics were prescribed in hospitals, while 20.9% were used from leftovers and accessed without prescriptions. This study found that the appropriate use of antibiotics was associated with being female, being aged 35 years and above, attaining secondary school or tertiary education, having a monthly expenditure of 195 USD and above, being aware that antibiotics were not the same as painkillers, and being confident that when someone was hospitalized, they would get well. This study found that the appropriate use of antibiotics was low, and this is an urgent public health issue requiring community engagement in tackling AMR and adherence to treatment guidelines in healthcare facilities. Additionally, there is a need to implement and strengthen antimicrobial stewardship programmes in healthcare facilities to promote the rational use of antibiotics in Zambia. There is also a need to heighten community awareness campaigns and educational activities on the appropriate use of antibiotics.

Molecular Detection and Isolation of Lumpy Skin Disease Virus during an Outbreak in West Hararghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia.

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a highly contagious viral disease that causes significant economic losses in cattle populations globally. This study aimed to isolate and detect the LSD virus responsible for an outbreak in selected areas (Daaroo Labuu, Hawwii Guddina, and Gumbi Bordede district) of the West Hararghe Zone in Ethiopia between January 2020 and December 2021. Out of the 625 animals examined for the presence of LSD, only 73 animals showed clinical signs, and skin scrapes were collected from these animals for further analysis. Among those, 12 animals (1.9%) succumbed to the disease. Skin biopsy samples from 45 animals displaying clinical signs of LSD were inoculated in Vero cell lines because of limited equipment. After three blind passages, all samples developed cytopathic effects (CPEs). The presence of the LSD virus was confirmed using real-time PCR. Conventional PCR detected LSDV in 47 (64.4%) of the skin scrap samples, while high-resolution melt qPCR detected it in 49 (67.1%) samples. The study revealed a morbidity rate of 11.68%, a mortality rate of 1.92%, and a case fatality rate of 16.44% based on clinical data. The findings suggest that LSD causes significant economic losses, even in vaccinated animals prior to an outbreak. To effectively control and eradicate LSD, the government should develop new strategic policies. Community awareness campaigns are necessary to improve vector control measures and drainage systems. In addition, the present vaccination policy and strategy should be re-evaluated for effectiveness. This study focused on a specific region and timeframe, limiting generalizability. Factors such as environmental conditions and management practices were not extensively explored. Similar studies should be conducted in different regions to assess the prevalence and genetic diversity of LSDV. The effectiveness of control measures and vaccination strategies should be investigated. The impact of environmental factors and management practices on LSD transmission and disease severity warrants further exploration. This study provides insights into the detection and isolation of the LSD virus during an outbreak in the West Hararghe Zone of Ethiopia. The results highlight the need for continued surveillance and monitoring of emerging infectious diseases in the region. Furthermore, the importance of using molecular methods for detecting and characterizing viral outbreaks in livestock populations is emphasized.

COVID-19 surveillance in fragile health systems, armed conflict and humanitarian crisis, the case of Yemen

ABSTRACT Background Yemen is a poor country facing armed conflict which significantly disrupted the Health System. Yemen reported fewer COVID-19 cases than neighbouring countries, yet the case fatality rate (19.6%) remained five times the global average. Conflict typically hinders surveillance, however obtaining representative mortality and morbidity indicators remains essential to efficacious epidemic planning. We aimed to explore challenges hindering COVID-19 surveillance in Yemen and opportunities for addressing them, to increase surveillance effectiveness in such conflict and resource-constraint settings. Methods Qualitative study question guide was used for in-depth interviewswith 30 healthcare workers who worked in Yemen’s surveillance system during the pandemic. Participants were recruited through in-country gatekeepers using a ‘snowball’ sampling technique. Thematic framework analysiswas used. Findings A basic level of preparedness existed following responses to previous epidemics, including activating Rapid Response Teams (RRTs), and electronic disease surveillance. Key challenges included the ongoing conflict, an unstable health system, minimal infrastructure restorations, misinformation, community incompliance, and inadequate laboratory diagnostics or transportation capabilities. Participants recommended addressing these barriers through strengthening RRTs, transportation and laboratory testing capacities, implementing community awareness campaigns, alongside improving primary health care services and inter-governorate governance. Conclusion Active community surveillance by RRTs supplemented with community volunteers is imperative and necessary nationwide. National community awareness campaigns on case detection, reporting, and addressing misinformation are essential to implementing such community surveillance. Increased utilization of mobile laboratories could enhance laboratory testing capacity in underserved areas. For each recommendation to be effectively implemented, the international community must provide sufficient resources and financial aid.

Road to maternal death: the pooled estimate of maternal near-miss, its primary causes and determinants in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundMaternal near-miss (MNM) is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) working group as a woman who nearly died but survived a life-threatening condition during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy due to getting quality of care or by chance. Despite the importance of the near-miss concept in enhancing quality of care and maternal health, evidence regarding the prevalence of MNM, its primary causes and its determinants in Africa is sparse; hence, this study aimed to address these gaps.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published up to October 31, 2023, was conducted. Electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Directory of Open Access Journals), Google, and Google Scholar were used to search for relevant studies. Studies from any African country that reported the magnitude and/or determinants of MNM using WHO criteria were included. The data were extracted using a Microsoft Excel 2013 spreadsheet and analysed by STATA version 16. Pooled estimates were performed using a random-effects model with the DerSimonian Laired method. The I2 test was used to analyze the heterogeneity of the included studies.ResultsSixty-five studies with 968,555 participants were included. The weighted pooled prevalence of MNM in Africa was 73.64/1000 live births (95% CI: 69.17, 78.11). A high prevalence was found in the Eastern and Western African regions: 114.81/1000 live births (95% CI: 104.94, 123.59) and 78.34/1000 live births (95% CI: 67.23, 89.46), respectively. Severe postpartum hemorrhage and severe hypertension were the leading causes of MNM, accounting for 36.15% (95% CI: 31.32, 40.99) and 27.2% (95% CI: 23.95, 31.09), respectively. Being a rural resident, having a low monthly income, long distance to a health facility, not attending formal education, not receiving ANC, experiencing delays in health service, having a previous history of caesarean section, and having pre-existing medical conditions were found to increase the risk of MNM.ConclusionThe pooled prevalence of MNM was high in Africa, especially in the eastern and western regions. There were significant variations in the prevalence of MNM across regions and study periods. Strengthening universal access to education and maternal health services, working together to tackle all three delays through community education and awareness campaigns, improving access to transportation and road infrastructure, and improving the quality of care provided at service delivery points are key to reducing MNM, ultimately improving and ensuring maternal health equity.

Risk communication and community engagement in the context of COVID-19 response in Bangladesh: a qualitative study.

The global COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted nations worldwide, and Bangladesh was no exception. In response, the government of Bangladesh implemented community awareness initiatives aimed at containing the spread of the virus, aligned with international guidelines and recommendations. Despite these efforts, a lack of comprehensive community awareness programs played an essential role during the pandemic, not the preventive measures. A qualitative study employing framing theory was conducted to gain a deeper insight into how the social context influenced risk communication and community response throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. The study was conducted in four selected districts of Bangladesh from February to May 2022 using complementary data collection methods, including key informant interviews, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with purposely selected participants. Data were analyzed thematically by following six steps of the thematic analysis process. Codes were developed based on the data and summarized into themes and sub-themes grounded on the codes. The findings indicate that the government of Bangladesh, along with development partners and non-government organizations, made a significant effort to raise awareness about COVID-19 in the community. However, there were certain limitations to this effort. These include a lack of social science and public health approaches to understanding the pandemic; inadequate coordination among the authorities for COVID-19 prevention and control; technological and geographical barriers for disseminating messages; the living conditions and lack of facilities; socio-cultural norms in understanding the COVID-19 health messages, and the gendered understanding of the messages. The findings also revealed that the awareness activities remained a one-way approach to inform the people and faced challenges to actively engage and create ownership of the community in the pandemic response. The study identified gaps in implementing risk communication and community engagement strategies in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. Increasing focus on public health and prioritizing community ownership is essential to designing a more effective community awareness campaign. This approach will help ensure that health messages are communicated effectively and tailored to different communities' needs.

Tackling the Immediate Implications of Anaemia in Women and Children

Anaemia persists as a significant global health issue, especially impacting women and children. Immediate consequences include fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function, with pregnant women and young children facing elevated risks. Addressing anaemia requires widespread iron supplementation, nutritional education, and improved access to fortified foods. Resolving root causes like inadequate healthcare infrastructure and poverty is crucial. Collaborative efforts involving governments, NGOs, and the private sector are essential. Early detection, prompt treatment, and enduring preventive measures are vital. Community engagement and awareness campaigns are necessary for informed health decisions. By integrating these approaches, we can effectively tackle anaemia's immediate ramifications, aiming for a healthier future for vulnerable populations worldwide

Sources of knowledge empowerment amongst pregnant women with TB disease: A qualitative study in South Africa

AbstractBackgroundProviding relevant knowledge to empower all pregnant women diagnosed and nondiagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) is essential worldwide. Proper dissemination of health information for pregnant women could assist in preventing TB complications amongst women and babies. The study aimed to describe the sources of knowledge that empower pregnant women diagnosed with TB and improve their quality of life in Limpopo Province, South Africa.MethodologyThe study followed a qualitative, exploratory and descriptive research design. The study was conducted in 12 selected primary healthcare facilities in three crisis districts. Thirty‐five pregnant women with TB disease were purposively selected, and face‐to‐face interviews were conducted to generate data, which were analysed using the thematic approach. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and ethical standards were adhered to.ResultsThe findings of this study revealed that healthcare workers, community stakeholders, and TB ambassadors are the primary sources of knowledge dissemination for capacitating women diagnosed with TB.ConclusionMost pregnant women lacked knowledge regarding TB ambassadors as sources of information for empowering women, community awareness campaigns, and Google searches as sources of information sharing. All stakeholders need to work together, considering the patients' charter for TB care that sets out the right for respect and information sharing. The emphasis of this study was on developing a comprehensive educational intervention that could assist in improving the quality of TB services offered to pregnant women.

Educational Inclusion Transformation: Innovative 'Inclusionplus' Model to Enhance Access and Support for Children with Special Needs

This research aims to develop an inclusive education model " InklusiPlus" in Kendari City for children with special needs. The research's goal is to enhance access and support to create an inclusive educational environment. Through a collaborative approach, the study focuses on establishing a Collaborative Forum, professional training, developing inclusive facilities, and raising community awareness campaigns. The research involves 36 participants, including children with special needs, educators, and parents at Special Schools in Kendari City. Data collection is conducted through observations and interviews. Qualitative analysis is employed for data analysis. The results indicate that "InklusiPlus" successfully enhances collaboration among stakeholders, provides relevant training, and creates inclusive facilities. The research's conclusion highlights the success of the "InklusiPlus" model in creating an inclusive environment that supports the development of children with special needs in Kendari City.

Abstract A064: My Choices: A multilevel, multicomponent intervention to improve informed decision-making about clinical trial participation among cancer patients

Abstract Background: Knowledge gained through cancer clinical trials (CTs) has been proven critical to preventing, diagnosing and treating the disease, and providing the evidence base for clinical practice. Major advances in cancer treatment, which are essential for improving patients’ outcomes, come from investigations of new therapeutic agents in CTs. Despite the large number of available studies and improvements in public awareness about CTs, participation of underrepresented minorities in clinical research has been persistently low, with only 2-5% of Latinos and African Americans participating in cancer treatment trials. Barriers to participation are multilevel, complex, and multifactorial, including study design, healthcare system barriers, and patient- and medical team-related factors. Structural inequities, social determinants of health (SDoH), distrust of government, patient-doctor communications, cultural and language barriers, and lower levels of health literacy are barriers for Latino and African American populations. Purpose: To improve informed decision-making about cancer CT participation among cancer patients and community members through a bilingual multilevel, multi-communication approach, including: 1) a 2-group parallel randomized controlled educational trial, and 2) a community awareness campaign. Methods: The randomized study involves 400 patients from the Mays Cancer Center. The intervention group receives 1) a bilingual educational video on CTs with patients’ testimonials, 2) a low literacy booklet, 3) support from a patient navigator (PN), and 4) Salud America! weekly emails with links to online/social media posts on CT. The control group receives a general fact sheet on CTs. Healthcare providers involved in clinical research are invited to participate in Webinars to raise awareness of implicit bias and the importance of inclusive research. The community intervention features a prospective single-group pre/post design, where participants (400) act as their own controls. They receive an educational session on CTs provided by a community health educator + a low literacy booklet. Results: Focus groups guided the development of the video script, booklet, and educational materials. The short video features real cancer patients sharing their experiences with CTs and how they overcame common barriers. Study recruitment began in February 2023. So far, we have recruited 36 cancer patients with a mean age of 51 years, 80% White and 61% Hispanic/Latino, 64% married, 44% had Medicare/Medicaid; 36% < high school education; and 33% earned <$40K. Preliminary results will be presented. Conclusions: Multilevel interventions involving culturally tailored decision aids (i.e., video, booklet) in combination with PN support can effectively address common barriers influencing patient decision-making, raise awareness of CTs, and increase positive attitudes, intentions, and participation in CTs among groups experiencing SDoH. Citation Format: Patricia Chalela, Vivian Cortez, Armida Flores, Sandra Sivak, Edgar Munoz, Cliff Despres, Callie Rainosek, Alyssa Gonzalez, Mio Kitano, Virginia Kaklamani, Kate Lathrop, Sukeshi Arora, Andrew Brenner, Deepak K. Pruthi, Amelie G. Ramirez. My Choices: A multilevel, multicomponent intervention to improve informed decision-making about clinical trial participation among cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A064.

Socioecological systems analysis of potential factors for cholera outbreaks and assessment of health system’s readiness to detect and respond in Ilemela and Nkasi districts, Tanzania

BackgroundCholera outbreaks are a recurrent issue in Tanzania, with Ilemela and Nkasi districts being particulary affected. The objective of this study was to conduct a socio-ecological system (SES) analysis of cholera outbreaks in these districts, identifying potential factors and assessing the preparedness for cholera prevention and control.MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out in Ilemela and Nkasi districts of Mwanza and Rukwa regions, respectively in Tanzania between September and October 2021. A SES framework analysis was applied to identify potential factors associated with cholera outbreaks and assess the readiness of the districts to cholera prevention and control.ResultsIlemela is characterised by urban and peri-urban ecosystems while Nkasi is mainly rural. Cholera was reported to disproportionately affect people living along the shores of Lake Victoria in Ilemela and Lake Tanganyika in Nkasi, particularly fishermen and women involved infish trading. The main potential factors identified for cholera outbreaks included defecation in the shallow ends and along the edges of lakes, open defecation, bathing/swimming in contaminated waters and improper waste disposal. The preparedness of both districts for cholera prevention and response was found to be inadequate due to limited laboratory capacity, insufficient human resources, and budget constraints.ConclusionPeople of Ilemela and Nkasi districts remain at significant risk of recurrent cholera outbreaks and the capacity of the districts to detect the disease is limited. Urgent preventive measures, such as conducting considerable community awareness campaigns on personal hygiene and environmental sanitation are needed to alleviate the disease burden and reduce future cholera outbreaks.

Understanding Community Participation in Tree Planting and Management in Deforested Areas in Cameroon's Western Highlands.

Deforestation and forest degradation continue to take place at alarming rates in Africa despite global net forest loss reductions. This is prompting large-scale forest restoration involving community volunteers to prevent, halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity for the sustainable development of forest landscapes in Africa. The study explored the motivations, challenges, barriers and negotiation strategies of community volunteers in ecosystem restoration and conservation initiatives in Cameroon's Western Highlands (Mount Bamboutos landscape), given that many such interventions are not achieving desired targets and goals. A total of 134 respondents involving farmers and local implementing NGO workers were interviewed, using semi-structured open-ended questionnaires. One focus group discussion was held with paramount traditional rulers to assess the strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of the community-led ecosystem restoration and conservation initiative. The principal components analysis with oblique (Direct oblimin) rotation was used to reduce the number of constitutive items in each dimension of motivation, challenge and barrier to community participation. Linear regression analysis was used to examine how the different dimensions of motivations, challenges and barriers influence community participation. Community participation was initially driven more by environmental motivations given the highly deforested and degraded Mount Bamboutos landscape, but later on driven more by economic and community motivations. Social factors were least expressed and non-significant predictors of participation. Community participation was primarily limited by management, financial, psychological, personal, and information challenges and barriers. Providing financial incentives to cover daily subsistence costs of food and transport was a key negotiation strategy that increased community participation. Conservation organisations should capitalise on environment, community and social motivational appeals during community education and awareness campaigns to increase voluntary community participation. The local knowledge on ecosystem restoration and conservation motivations, challenges, barriers, negotiation strategies, recommendations and SWOT analysis provide relevant baseline information for environment management decision-makers in Cameroon and other Sub-Saharan African countries.

The Social Psychological Methods of Preventing Domestic Violence

This article delves into the application of social psychological methods in preventing domestic violence. Drawing on extensive research and case studies, it explores various strategies including community programs, education, awareness campaigns, and support networks. The study emphasizes the importance of early intervention, societal awareness, and fostering a sense of empowerment among potential victims. By employing these methods, it is possible to create a safer environment and reduce the prevalence of domestic violence in communities.

Factors Influencing the Management of Musculoskeletal Pain among Children with Sickle Cell Disease in Western Kenya

Musculoskeletal pain (MSK) is a common and often distressing symptom among children diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SCD). Despite the recurrent and often severe pain episodes these children endure, there has been limited research into the factors that influence the management of this pain. This study sought to delve into the various factors that impact the management of MSK pain in children with SCD in Western Kenya. It took a comprehensive approach, considering psychological, economic, sociocultural, individual, nutritional, environmental, and hospital-related factors. To gather insights, caregivers of 176 children with musculoskeletal pain associated with SCD were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring themes, and a codebook was developed based on findings from the literature and emerging themes. The interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved, ensuring that all necessary data was collected. The results of the study revealed seven key themes that significantly influenced the management of musculoskeletal pain in these children. These themes included psychological factors, economic constraints, sociocultural beliefs, individual health status, nutritional challenges, environmental triggers, and healthcare system-related factors. Caregivers often grappled with psychological distress, financial strain, and social stigmatization. Individual factors, such as compromised immune status, played a crucial role in the frequency and severity of pain episodes. Furthermore, inadequate access to nutritious food exacerbated musculoskeletal pain. Additionally, changing weather conditions and previous negative experiences with healthcare facilities hindered effective pain management. In light of these findings, the study underscores the urgent need for a holistic approach to address these challenges. This includes providing psychosocial support, financial assistance, community awareness campaigns, improved healthcare services, education on proper nutrition, climate-related support, and healthcare worker training to better manage MSK pain in children with SCD.

Development and validation of educational multimedia to promote public health literacy about healthy cognitive aging.

Health literacy (HL) about healthy cognitive aging is essential in preventing cognitive decline and promoting cognitive well-being. It is important that one such HL module should be scientifically designed, delivered in a technically sound manner to the audience, and specific to the context. The present study thus aimed at developing and validating educational multimedia about cognitive health. The study followed a methodological framework and was carried out across three phases, that is, identification of themes, development and validation of educational script and design, and validation of educational multimedia. The module was scripted based on the Integrated HL framework and the recommendations made during the modified nominal group technique among the research team. Seven speech-language pathologists (SLPs), with expertise in the field of cognitive sciences, and 15 representatives of the general public validated the module using the Educational Content Validation Instrument in Health and the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials questionnaire. The scientific content of the educational script received satisfactory agreements among the experts (content validity index [CVI]: 0.93) and representatives of the general public (CVI: 0.86). The technical aspects of the educational multimedia were rated to have high understandability (experts: 92.8%; representatives of general public: 98.8%) and actionability (experts and representatives of general public 100%). Overall, the developed educational multimedia scored optimally with respect to the objective, structure, relevance of the content, actionability and understandability of the multimedia. The developed module holds the potential to be used at community and national level health educational programs or awareness campaigns to enhance public knowledge and beliefs pertaining to cognitive health. SLPs with expertise in the field of cognitive science and representatives from the general public were included to validate and obtain feedback on the developed educational multimedia.