Interventions In sub-Saharan Africa Research Articles

Health Interventions for Health Promotion in Sub-Saharan Africa: Assessing Impact on Health Literacy and Comparative Analysis of Online Communication Channels

Introduction: Considering the increased incidence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and the need for novel approaches to health promotion, this study investigates the feasibility of cross-country mHealth interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study, which focuses on using digital platforms for health communication, intends to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of cross-country mhealth interventions aimed at disseminating health promotion materials in Sub-Saharan Africa across various platforms. The study is based on the NCDs 365 project, a year-long health promotion initiative in five nations aimed at promoting NCD literacy. Methodology: The study utilized a multi-stage sample technique, including an intentional selection of five nations (Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, and Zimbabwe) with active local partner organizations conducting the initiative. The following stage was convenience sampling of members of these organizations who participated in the NCD365 project activities. Data gathering included the distribution of questionnaires via local partners, followed by thorough analysis using descriptive techniques and comparison tests such as ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test. The extensive methodology ensured a broad and representative sample, which increased the findings' validity and generalizability. Results: The findings demonstrated the potential of mHealth interventions to close health literacy gaps and promote positive health behaviors throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. According to an analysis of online communication platform usage, WhatsApp was the most popular (58.6%), followed by X (20.8%) and Facebook (6.8%). The study also found significant trends in platform preference across all five countries. Furthermore, gender-specific study indicated comparable literacy rates, with males slightly outperforming females. The Kruskal-Wallis test found no significant difference in the efficacy of various online communication channels for health promotion, confirming the viability of cross-country mHealth programs. Conclusions: This study highlights the significant potential of cross-country mHealth interventions for health promotion in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study's strong methodology, agreement with current research, and gender-specific analysis add to its dependability and credibility. The findings of this analysis provide significant recommendations to policymakers seeking to optimize platform-specific policies and stimulate cross-country collaborations in health promotion. Finally, these findings expand the discussion on health literacy promotion and establish the groundwork for evidence-based recommendations that might drive effective health communication initiatives in the region and beyond.

Evaluating Feasibility and Effectiveness of Implementing Cross-Country Mhealth Interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, where traditional healthcare systems in Sub-Saharan Africa often grapple with limited infrastructure, healthcare worker shortages, and accessibility challenges. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have emerged as promising tools to enhance health promotion and literacy, providing innovative solutions to these challenges. This study evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of cross-country mHealth interventions through a secondary analysis of the NCD 365 project, which utilized outcome data from January to December 2020. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select participants from five countries, and data were collected via an online Google form. The analysis focused on platform usage, literacy distribution, and the relationship between health literacy levels and the platforms used. Descriptive statistics and the Kruskal-Wallis test were used to evaluate the data. Results indicated that WhatsApp was the most widely used platform in four of the five countries, while Twitter predominated in Uganda. Adjusted literacy levels varied slightly, with Kenya and Nigeria showing higher levels compared to Cameroon, Zimbabwe, and Uganda. Gender differences in literacy were minimal, with males displaying marginally higher literacy scores. The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed no significant differences in literacy levels across platforms or countries, reinforcing the feasibility and effectiveness of cross-country mHealth interventions. These findings suggest that initiatives like the NCD 365 project can effectively promote health literacy and healthcare delivery across diverse settings in Sub-Saharan Africa. While regional differences in platform preferences exist, the overall success of the project highlights the potential for scalable and adaptable mHealth strategies. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts and platform-specific effectiveness to further optimize mHealth interventions.

Challenges in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 in Ghana: An assessment of the impact of economic crisis on urban household food security

There is an ongoing economic crisis in Ghana which has the potential to strain household finances, alter dietary patterns, and push people into a state of food insecurity. While rural areas have traditionally been the focus of food security research and interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa, there is growing evidence of the challenges faced by urban residents which warrants investigation. This study aims to assess the current status of food security among urban households in Ghana, and examine the impact of the economic crisis on food dietary decisions and food security. This study surveyed 401 random sampling participants in two major urban areas, Accra and Takoradi. The structured questionnaire included the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES), and additional questions on income allocation to food and dietary changes. The results show a significant prevalence of food insecurity among urban households in Ghana, with over half of the respondents experiencing moderate to severe food insecurity. The economic crisis has notably impacted food expenditures, with 81 % of participants reporting changes in their income allocation to food, and 75 % reducing the variety of foods they consume. A substantial portion of respondents now spends between 31 and 50 % of their total income on food which is an indication of the financial burden they face. Ordinal logistic regression identified household income as a critical factor influencing food security, with unemployed and lower-income individuals facing a significantly higher risk. These results emphasize the urgent need for both immediate food assistance, and long-term strategies to strengthen food systems and improve the economic situation to reduce vulnerability. Implementing the recommendations from these findings could contribute towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 in Ghana.

Diabetes self-care intervention strategies and their effectiveness in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review.

Diabetes poses a significant public health challenge, predominantly affecting low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), including in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The evolving landscape characterized by resource constraints, gaps in availability and functionality of healthcare system, and socio-demographic impediments has compounded these challenges. As an example, self-care interventions have played a crucial role in diabetes care. However, the effectiveness of these interventions in the SSA remains insufficiently explored. Therefore, this systematic review evaluated the effectiveness and implementation approach of diabetes self-care interventions in SSA. A comprehensive search was conducted across electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, to identify studies focusing on diabetes self-care interventions in SSA from 2013 to 2023. The included studies reported interventions targeting dietary adherence, physical activity, medication adherence, blood glucose monitoring, foot care, and educational or support programs. The quality of the studies was assessed using the JBI checklist. Effectiveness was assessed through outcomes including glycemic control, adherence rate, complication reduction, and improvement in patient outcomes. Overall, 38.5% of interventions result showed positive changes in either primary or secondary outcomes. Studies that employed diabetes self-management education showed positive changes in approximately 28.6% of cases. However, SMS text messaging interventions did not demonstrate significant changes in the measured outcomes. Of the 13 studies reviewed, 12 used randomized controlled trial designs, whereas one study employed a quasi-experimental approach. The total of participants across intervention and control groups was 3172 adults with diabetes. The interventions employed various strategies including diabetes self-management education led by nurses and other professionals, SMS text messaging for treatment adherence, and other targeted approaches. The duration of these interventions varied from 2 to 12 months. Specific interventions, such as glucose machine provision with training, family support with culturally tailored educations, and periodontal treatment, exhibited notable improvement in adherences and reductions in HbA1c levels. The review underscores the significance of diabetes self-care interventions in SSA, showing varying effectiveness levels across different strategies. It emphasizes the importance of tailored approaches and highlight interventions that have shown promising outcomes, providing insights for future research, policy, and healthcare strategies in the region.

Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Innovative Interventions among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in South Africa: A Protocol Paper.

Although South Africa was the first country to register and roll out oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) biomedical human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention intervention in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), its uptake remains low, particularly among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). The uptake of PrEP may have worsened during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Some innovative interventions to improve PrEP uptake among AGYW have been implemented. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of PrEP innovative interventions implemented during COVID-19 towards reducing the risk of HIV infection among AGYW in South Africa. An exploratory, descriptive design will be conducted to carry out four study objectives. Firstly, to carry out a systematic review of innovative PrEP interventions implemented during COVID-19 in SSA countries. Secondly, to conduct a stakeholder analysis to identify PrEP stakeholders and interview them on their views on the implemented interventions. Thirdly, to assess the implementation outcomes of the innovative interventions using document reviews and Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Fourthly, to develop a framework for an improved PrEP service delivery among AGYW. Qualitative data will be captured in ATLAS.ti software (Technical University, Berlin, Germany) version 23 and analysed via thematic analysis. A statistical software package (STATA) version 18 (College Station, TX, USA) will be used to capture quantitative data and analyse them via descriptive analysis. The generated evidence will be used towards the development of framework, guidelines, and policies to strengthen the uptake of, scale-up, and adherence to PrEP among AGYW.

Effectiveness and safety of self-management interventions for improving glycemic control and health-related quality of life among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The objective of this review was to assess and synthesize evidence on the effectiveness and safety of self-management interventions for improving glycemic control and health-related quality of life among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in sub-Saharan Africa. There has been a rapid increase in the prevalence of T2DM in sub-Saharan Africa. Lifestyle-related risk factors require self-management strategies, and these must be tailored to the context. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating T2DM self-management interventions in sub-Saharan Africa have been conducted. This systematic review included RCTs assessing the effectiveness and safety of self-management interventions among adults with T2DM in sub-Saharan Africa, where the self-management intervention matched at least 1 category of the Practical Reviews in Self-Management Support (PRISMS) for long-term conditions taxonomy. The following databases were searched from inception until January 14, 2023: MEDLINE (Ovid), PubMed, Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), PsycINFO (Ovid), Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Directory of Open Access Journals, EThOS, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses (ProQuest). Global Health (EBSCOhost) was searched from inception until June 8, 2021. OpenGrey was searched from inception until its archive date of December 1, 2020. Two independent reviewers conducted title and abstract screening, full-text screening, data extraction, and critical appraisal. Disagreements were resolved through discussion or with a third reviewer. Data synthesis was conducted narratively, followed by meta-analysis where feasible. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach for assessing the certainty of evidence was applied. From 2699 records identified, 18 RCTs were included in the systematic review and 14 in the meta-analysis. Interventions included broad self-management education programs, peer support, exercise interventions with education, nutrition education, educational text messaging, and blood glucose self-monitoring support. Only 4 studies received a "yes" response for more than half of the criteria in the standardized JBI critical appraisal tool for RCTs. Compared to the control, self-management interventions did not significantly reduce glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels at 3 months (302 participants, mean difference [MD] -6.0 mmol/mol, 95% CI -17.5, 5.4; very low certainty on GRADE assessment) or 12 months (1504 participants, MD -3.7 mmol/mol, 95% CI -8.2, 0.7; moderate certainty on GRADE assessment). HbA1c was significantly reduced at 6 months (671 participants, MD -8.1 mmol/mol, 95% CI -10.7, -5.4; low certainty on GRADE assessment). Four studies assessed health-related quality of life, but only 1 demonstrated an improvement (2205 participants). Three studies reported no adverse events in relation to the trial interventions (1217 participants), and adverse events were not reported in the remainder of studies. There did not appear to be clinically significant effects on body mass index, lipid profile, or systolic or diastolic blood pressure. The evidence was mixed for weight and waist circumference. Self-management interventions for adults living with T2DM in sub-Saharan Africa may produce a clinically significant improvement in glycemic control at 6 months, but this may wane in the long term. There was not convincing evidence to indicate a benefit of these interventions on health-related quality of life, but reporting on this outcome measure was limited. There were insufficient data on adverse events to be able to draw conclusions. PROSPERO CRD42021237506.

Gender-differentiated capture of agro-based climate adaptation interventions: implications for agricultural systems and practices in Cameroon’s Western highlands

In climate change adaptation, studies exist on extension interventions in sub-Saharan Africa, albeit the dearth of scientific evidence on the differential “capture1” of agro-based adaptation packages. This paper contributes to provide evidence by (1) analyzing the typology of agro-based climate adaptation packages, and (2) exploring gender variations in the capture of agro-based climate adaptation packages. We use key informant interviews (N = 89) and focus group discussions (N = 14) to obtain data, analyzed using content analysis. Variations were observed in the capture of agro-based adaptation packages introduced by state and non-state actors. While men (adult male) mostly employed dominant information, women (adult female) drew from group formation. Agro-based adaptation capture led to major shifts in agricultural systems in the western highlands from monocropping to mixed cropping, mixed farming and agroforestry systems. The results show changes in agricultural systems from monocropping to mixed cropping. It was observed that women (adult female) and youths (both male and female) capture adaptation strategies encouraged by state agencies than the men (adult male) who adopt various adaptation strategies by both state agencies and non-governmental organizations. While these findings shed light on the dynamics of gender differentiated capture, it further calls for an in-depth exploration of other factors which shape agricultural system change.

Experiences and perspectives regarding human papillomavirus self-sampling in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review of qualitative evidence

IntroductionCervical cancer screening coverage remains low in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) due to limited access and low uptake of available services by women. The use of HPV-based self-sampling intervention for cervical cancer screening has the potential to increase screening coverage in the region. This study aimed to analyse qualitative evidence on the experiences and perspectives of women, healthcare workers, and policymakers regarding HPV self-sampling. MethodsWe reviewed qualitative studies from January 2011 to March 2023 in PubMed, Scopus, Medline Ovid, Cochrane, and WEB of Science databases for articles with qualitative data on HPV self-sampling from different countries in SSA. The socio-ecological model was used to guide data analysis and the study findings. ResultsThirteen qualitative studies were included for analysis, and they revealed themes under the intrapersonal, interpersonal, community, and health systems constructs of the Socio-ecological model. Intrapersonal themes included the acceptability of self-sampling, self-efficacy, and the perceived value of self-sampling. The interpersonal construct had themes such as women's spousal relationships, peer support, and the health worker's relationship with the women. The community construct had two themes: social stigma and misinformation, and the influence of cultural norms and religion. Finally, the health systems construct had themes such as the setting for self-sampling, follow-up availability of treatment services and education and awareness. ConclusionThis study highlights the factors influencing the acceptability and uptake of an HPV-based self-sampling intervention for cervical cancer screening in SSA. Considering these findings when designing interventions in SSA is crucial to ensure acceptance and demand among end-users. Self-sampling interventions offer the potential to reach many unscreened women and increase cervical cancer screening coverage in SSA, which is an essential strategy towards achieving the World Health Organisation's cervical cancer elimination targets by the close of the century.

Determinants of tobacco use among pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa. A multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression model.

Although it is known that maternal tobacco use during pregnancy substantially declined in higher-income countries, information on the magnitude and determinants of tobacco use among pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains limited. Establishing evidence on maternal tobacco during pregnancy is crucial for guiding targeted interventions in SSA. This study aimed to determine the overall prevalence of tobacco use and its determinants among pregnant women in SSA countries. The study used data from Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 33 countries across SSA from 2010 and 2021. Our analysis included a total weighted sample of 40,291 pregnant women. A multilevel logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with maternal tobacco use during pregnancy. The measure of association between explanatory variables and the outcome was reported using adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The pooled prevalence of tobacco use among pregnant women in SSA was 1.76% (95% CI: 1.41, 2.12). Our findings showed that pregnant women in the age groups of 25-34 years (AOR 1.44; 95% CI: 1.14, 1.82) and 35+ years (AOR 2.18; 95% CI: 1.68, 2.83) had higher odds of tobacco use during pregnancy. Pregnant women who attained primary education (AOR 0.57; 95% CI: 0.46, 0.70) and secondary or higher education (AOR 0.39; 95% CI: 0.30, 0.53) were associated with lower odds of tobacco use. Similarly, pregnant women who resided in households with a high wealth index (AOR 0.36; 95% CI: 0.55 0.90) and those with media exposure (AOR 0.81; 95% CI: 0.67, 0.99) were less likely to use tobacco during pregnancy. This study revealed that the overall prevalence of maternal tobacco use during pregnancy was relatively low in SSA, but some countries exhibited higher estimates. To address this, it is crucial to implement targeted smoking prevention and cessation strategies, particularly for young pregnant women, those facing socioeconomic disadvantages, and those with lower educational status.

Occupational therapy interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders - a Rapid Review

Introduction: This rapid review aimed to synthesise evidence for occupational therapy intervention in the management of autism spectrum disorders. The review forms part of a series of rapid reviews commissioned by the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa to help inform decision making as South Africa prepares for a new health system.
 Method: Level I and II research studies published from 2017 - 2022 were considered for inclusion. Electronic database searches were conducted on the Cochrane database. The identified records were screened in Rayyan according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quality assessment of the selected articles was done with the CASP appraisal tool. Data were extracted to a custom Microsoft Excel® worksheet and analysed quantitatively by percentage/frequency and qualitatively by thematic analysis of statements.
 Results: Thirty-eight records were selected. These included 30 systematic reviews and eight randomised controlled trials. Twelve intervention domains across four age groups were identified with sensory integration and social skills interventions most frequently examined. Interventions were delivered across various venues, including mediation and technology (e.g., telehealth interventions). A number of different outcome measures were used.
 Conclusion: There is evidence to support the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan for twelve different domains.
 Implications for practice
 
 Occupational Therapists are involved in the provision of therapy intervention across all age groups for people with ASD.
 Intervention can successfully take place in a clinic setting, but also at home or through means of technology.
 There is growing evidence for sensory integration therapy or techniques when considering functional outcomes when treating people with ASD.
 There is a lack of Level I and II research in the form of randomised control trials and systematic reviews regarding ASD intervention in sub-Saharan Africa.
 

Pressure ulcer prevention and treatment interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review

BackgroundThe high burden of pressure ulcers (PUs) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), coupled with the limited resources, underscores the need for preventive and context-specific treatment strategies. PurposeTherefore, the purpose of this systematic review was to establish and elucidate PU prevention and treatment interventions tested in SSA. MethodsThis systematic review of the literature used, PRISMA to guide the search. FindingsThe review identified nine studies on PU prevention (three) and treatment (six). Low-cost interventions assembled from locally available materials and multifaceted policies significantly prevented and treated PUs. The interventions included wound dressing agents, simple negative pressure suction devices that significantly treated PUs, and water-based bed surfaces. DiscussionThere were gaps in the interventions that have been proven successful in other global settings. ConclusionIn SSA, there is a need for nurses to tailor, test, and disseminate findings from evidence-based projects for PU prevention that have been successful in similar settings.

The Status of Implementation Research in Exit and Post-Exit Human Trafficking Interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa

ABSTRACT Conservative estimates place the number of individuals affected by human trafficking in the sub-Saharan African region at close to nine million. While there has been growing attention paid to innovative prevalence estimation approaches, and development of evidence-based interventions in the region, literature examining how these interventions are adapted, implemented, and delivered across multiple sectors, populations, and geo-political settings remains nascent at best. This critical gap in implementation research stymies the scale-up of effective anti-trafficking approaches. The central aim of this scoping review is to contribute to the anti-trafficking knowledge base by describing the current state of implementation research in this region based on 12 identified peer-reviewed human trafficking studies in sub-Saharan Africa. While none of the retrieved studies focuses solely on the implementation of a human trafficking intervention, the studies identified and discussed the acceptability and cost impacts of their implementation efforts. We conclude that advancing trafficking knowledge and praxis would require the synergistic and concurrent pursuit of both implementation and intervention strategies.

Impact of health system strengthening interventions on child survival in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review protocol

BackgroundStrengthening healthcare systems is a practical approach to enhance healthcare delivery and services. Although there has been a rise in the number of health systems strengthening (HSS) interventions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), there is limited evidence on the causal effect of these activities on child survival. Furthermore, the findings reported so far have been varied, and how they relate to each other remains unclear. This systematic review study aims to assess all available evidence to understand the impact of HSS activities on child survival in SSA.MethodsWe developed a search strategy to retrieve all relevant studies from electronic databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and African Journals Online. We will use a combination of search terms such as “under-five mortality,” “child mortality,” “infant mortality,” “neonatal mortality,” “child survival,” and “health systems strengthening.” The review will include studies that establish a causal relationship between HSS interventions and child survival. This will include studies with designs such as randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental and methods like difference-in-difference. Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, abstracts, and full-text data and a third reviewer will act as a tiebreaker in case of disagreements. The primary outcome of interest is the impact of HSS activities on under-five survival. We will evaluate the quality of each study using the Bradford Hill criteria for causation.DiscussionOur systematic review will identify and evaluate all relevant evidence that establishes a causal relationship between HSS activities and the survival of children under five years in SSA. The review’s findings regarding the impact of HSS activities on child survival could be of significant interest to the donor community and policy actors in the region. We also anticipate that the review’s conclusions could serve as a valuable guide for the development of future health system interventions and strategies in SSA.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42022333913.

A comparative analysis of gender diversity in labour participation and growth in Sub-Saharan African countries

In recent years, official statistics on female labour supply in several emerging nations have shown that female labour force participation rates are dropping. Although development organisations have created and implemented non-contextual empowerment initiatives, some of which have improved women's lives, a desirable outcome has not been achieved. A comparative analysis of gender diversity in labour economic participation and growth in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) was conducted. The study uses pooled least squares, fixed effects, random effects, difference generalised method of moments, and system-generalised method of moments models. Likewise, three models are estimated in the study for disaggregated male and female economic participation factors, respectively, while the third is for aggregate economic participation. In addition, causality was investigated using the panel vector correction model. The findings show that the indicators of human capital and labour economic participation are positive and significant in all three models. However, male human capital and labour economic participation contribute to productivity growth more than aggregate indicators. Also, the female indicators are the lowest contributing factor to growth. Also, the institutional quality is significant in aggregate and male labour economic participation but insignificant in female labour economic participation. The causality result shows one-way causality from female human capital to productivity growth. The study suggests, among others, the need to develop a financing mechanism to expand women-focused human capital interventions in SSA.

Multi-country collaborative citizen science projects to co-design cardiovascular disease prevention strategies and advocacy: findings from Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, and South Africa

BackgroundCardiovascular diseases (CVD) were responsible for 20.5 million annual deaths globally in 2021, with a disproportionally high burden in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). There is growing evidence of the use of citizen science and co-design approaches in developing interventions in different fields, but less so in the context of CVD prevention interventions in SSA. This paper reports on the collaborative multi-country project that employed citizen science and a co-design approach to (i) explore CVD risk perceptions, (ii) develop tailored prevention strategies, and (iii) support advocacy in different low-income settings in SSA.MethodsThis is a participatory citizen science study with a co-design component. Data was collected from 205 participants aged 18 to 75 years in rural and urban communities in Malawi, Ethiopia and Rwanda, and urban South Africa. Fifty-one trained citizen scientists used a mobile app-based (EpiCollect) semi-structured survey questionnaire to collect data on CVD risk perceptions from participants purposively selected from two communities per country. Data collected per community included 100–150 photographs and 150–240 voice recordings on CVD risk perceptions, communication and health-seeking intentions. Thematic and comparative analysis were undertaken with the citizen scientists and the results were used to support citizen scientists-led stakeholder advocacy workshops. Findings are presented using bubble graphs based on weighted proportions of key risk factors indicated.ResultsNearly three in every five of the participants interviewed reported having a relative with CVD. The main perceived causes of CVD in all communities were substance use, food-related factors, and litter, followed by physical inactivity, emotional factors, poverty, crime, and violence. The perceived positive factors for cardiovascular health were nutrition, physical activity, green space, and clean/peaceful communities. Multi-level stakeholders (45–84 persons/country) including key decision makers participated in advocacy workshops and supported the identification and prioritization of community-specific CVD prevention strategies and implementation actions. Citizen science-informed CVD risk screening and referral to care interventions were piloted in six communities in three countries with about 4795 adults screened and those at risk referred for care. Health sector stakeholders indicated their support for utilising a citizen-engaged approach in national NCDs prevention programmes. The citizen scientists were excited by the opportunity to lead research and advocacy.ConclusionThe collaborative engagement, participatory learning, and co-designing activities enhanced active engagement between citizen scientists, researchers, and stakeholders. This, in turn, provided context-specific insights on CVD prevention in the different SSA settings.

Digital Rehabilitation Interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa: Protocol for a Scoping Review.

Estimations show that at least one in every 3 people in the world needs rehabilitation at some point in the course of their illness or injury. Access to rehabilitation services is an essential part of the continuum of care and is integral to achieving universal health coverage. However, most of the world's population living in low- and middle-income countries, especially in the sub-Saharan African region, does not have access to adequate rehabilitation services. Wider adoption of digital solutions offers opportunities to support and enhance access to rehabilitation services in sub-Saharan Africa. A region where there is a greater burden and need for these services. There is also little published research about digital rehabilitation in sub-Saharan Africa, as it is an underexamined topic in the region. This scoping review aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the current evidence of digital interventions in rehabilitation implemented in any health, social, educational, or community setting in the sub-Saharan Africa region. We will conduct a scoping review using Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework and follow the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. We will develop search strategies for a selected number of web-based databases, search for peer-reviewed scientific publications until September 2023, and screen the reference lists of relevant articles. We will include research articles if they describe or report the use of digital interventions in the rehabilitation of patients with any health problem or disability in sub-Saharan Africa. For selected articles, we will extract data using a customized data extraction form and use thematic analysis to compare the findings across studies. The preliminary database search in MEDLINE (EBSCO) was completed in May 2023. The research team will conduct a search of relevant articles in the autumn. The results will be synthesized and reported under the key conceptual categories of this review, and we expect the final scoping review to be ready for submission in early 2024. We expect to find gaps in the research and a lack of detailed information about digital rehabilitation interventions in sub-Saharan Africa, as well as potential areas for further study. We will identify opportunities to inform the development of digital rehabilitation interventions. PRR1-10.2196/48952.

Gender transformative approaches in mHealth for maternal healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review.

This review focuses on studies about digital health interventions in sub-Saharan Africa. Digital health interventions in sub-Saharan Africa are increasingly adopting gender-transformative approaches to address factors that derail women's access to maternal healthcare services. However, there remains a paucity of synthesized evidence on gender-transformative digital health programs for maternal healthcare and the corresponding research, program and policy implications. Therefore, this systematic review aims to synthesize evidence of approaches to transformative gender integration in digital health programs (specifically mHealth) for maternal health in sub-Saharan Africa. The following key terms "mobile health", "gender", "maternal health", "sub-Saharan Africa" were used to conduct electronic searches in the following databases: PsycInfo, EMBASE, Medline (OVID), CINAHL, and Global Health databases. The method and results are reported as consistent with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Data synthesis followed a convergent approach for mixed-method systematic review recommended by the JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute). Of the 394 studies retrieved from the databases, 11 were included in the review. Out of these, six studies were qualitative in nature, three were randomized control trials, and two were mixed-method studies. Findings show that gender transformative programs addressed one or more of the following categories: (1) gender norms/roles/relations, (2) women's specific needs, (3) causes of gender-based health inequities, (4) ways to transform harmful gender norms, (5) promoting gender equality, (6) progressive changes in power relationships between women and men. The most common mHealth delivery system was text messages via short message service on mobile phones. The majority of mHealth programs for maternal healthcare were focused on reducing unintended pregnancies through the promotion of contraceptive use. The most employed gender transformative approach was a focus on women's specific needs. Findings from gender transformative mHealth programs indicate positive results overall. Those reporting negative results indicated the need for a more explicit focus on gender in mHealth programs. Highlighting gender transformative approaches adds to discussions on how best to promote mHealth for maternal health through a gender transformative lens and provides evidence relevant to policy and research. PROSPERO CRD42023346631.

Abstract 15431: Barriers to Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Sub Saharan Africa: A Call to Action

Introduction: Myocardial infarction incidence is rising in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Currently, 80% of the world cardiovascular disease mortality burden is by low- and middle-income countries. SSA countries have limited access to trained interventional cardiologists and medical centers where Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) is performed. Methods: In this review, Google Scholar and PubMed were used to search literature on PCI in SSA. Selection criteria were manuscripts published between 2013-2023, written in English language, and addressed the hurdles with PCI. Results: Between April 2010 and March 2019, patients presenting to a PCI-capable center in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire had a median delay of 20 hours from onset of symptoms to admission. This was 53.2 hours in Senegal, 4.35 days in Burkina-Faso, and 6.6 days in Tanzania, while it was between 2.3 to 3.6 hours in South Africa. In terms of availability of PCI-capable centers in East and Central Africa; Kenya, Ethiopia Tanzania, and Uganda 5, 3, 2, and 1 center (s) respectively. In West Africa; Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon had 6, 4, 2, 1, and 1 center(s), respectively. The average cost of an uncomplicated PCI of a single vessel occlusion costs up to $3500 (R65,000/1,612,000). In SSA, due to limited access to medical insurance, the proportion of direct out-of-pocket payments in total health expenditure remains above 40%. Conclusions: Minimizing ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction care and PCI delay should be a public health priority, as it a matter of public health interest and global health equity. There is a need for research into understanding better ways to improve access to STEMI care in Africa.

COVID-19 crisis era; Engineering interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa

Despite numerous notable contributions by Africans during the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak, little effort has been made to document these contributions in a comprehensive publication. Herein this work, an attempt was made to bring together African-based technological interventions proffered in Sub-Saharan Africa during this period. Across Africa generally, different engineering methods were used to develop several contrivances such as ventilators as well as deploying Artificial Intelligence to facilitate contact-free human- human and human-object interactions. Broadly, these approaches center on two key areas which are efforts to mitigate the spread of the infectious disease, and management of the infected, which are the focus of this present work. Indeed, a comprehensive report of these efforts is essential to appraise the contributions of the home-based researchers and to create an archive for future research and decision making across the African continent, thus necessitating the need for this systematic appraisal.

Peer support interventions in maternal and child healthcare delivery in sub-Saharan Africa: protocol for a realist review

BackgroundPeer support has been proposed as a promising policy intervention for addressing adverse maternal and child healthcare (MCH) outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Existing reviews on peer support largely draw on evidence from high-income countries or focus on single services like breastfeeding, nutrition or postnatal care. In contrast, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the empirical literature on peer support interventions across various MCH services in sub-Saharan Africa. Specifically, we aim to understand how, why, for whom, and in what circumstances different forms of MCH peer support interventions contribute to improving healthcare outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa.MethodsThis review follows five iterative steps for undertaking realist reviews (1) defining the review scope; (2) developing initial programme theories; (3) searching for evidence; (4) selecting and appraising evidence; and (5) extracting, analysing and synthesising evidence. Four databases–Cochrane Library, PubMed, CINAHL, and EMBASE–were repeatedly searched between March and June 2021. From a large volume of records retrieved from the database and citation search, 61 papers have been selected for review. We will conduct a second search of the same database covering June 2021 to the present before the final extraction and synthesis. The final list of selected papers will be imported into NVivo 12 software and organised, extracted, analysed and synthesised iteratively to examine and illustrate the causal links between contexts, mechanisms and outcomes of MCH peer support interventions in SSA. We have drawn on the existing literature on peer support in healthcare generally to develop initial programme theories. We will then use the empirical literature on MCH peer support interventions in SSA, inputs from a stakeholders’ workshop in Ghana and a conference presentation to refine the initial programme theory.DiscussionThe review will develop an explicit theory of peer support intervention in healthcare delivery and provide insights for developing evidence-informed policy on the intervention. Drawing lessons from the different national contexts and diverse areas of MCH in SSA, the review will provide an analytically generalizable programme theory that can guide intervention design and implementation. While focusing on MCH peer support interventions in SSA, the review contributes to evolving conversations on the use of theory for health policy planning and complex intervention design and implementation globally.Trial registrationPROSPERO registration ID: CRD42023427751.