Background Vaccination coverage levels fall short of the Global Vaccine and Action Plan 90% targe... more Background Vaccination coverage levels fall short of the Global Vaccine and Action Plan 90% target in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs). Having identified traditional and religious leaders (TRLs) as potential public health change agents, this study aimed at assessing the effect of training them to support routine immunisation for the purpose of improving uptake of childhood vaccines in Cross River State, Nigeria. Methods A cluster-randomised controlled study was conducted between 2016 and 2019. Of the 18 Local Government Areas (LGA) in Cross River State, eight (four urban and four rural LGAs) were randomized into the intervention and control study arms. A multi-component intervention involving the training of traditional and religious leaders was implemented in the four intervention LGAs. Baseline, midline and endline surveys collected information on children aged 0–23 months. The effect of the intervention on outcomes including the proportion fully up-to-date with vaccinati...
Additional file 3. Factors associated with third-trimester anaemia (<11g/dl) in study women (m... more Additional file 3. Factors associated with third-trimester anaemia (<11g/dl) in study women (mITT analyses).
BACKGROUND Moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) causes impaired anthropometry, which can be reversed... more BACKGROUND Moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) causes impaired anthropometry, which can be reversed by supplementary feeding. The present study aimed to compare the effect of a standardised milk-based formulation (SMBF), standardised non-milk based formulation (SNMBF) and hospital-based formulation (HBF) on anthropometric indices of children aged <5 years with MAM. METHODS This was a randomised clinical trial during which eligible children aged 6-59 months with MAM received SMBF, SNMBF or HBF over 4 months. They were followed up on a biweekly basis during which their weight, mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) and length/height were measured. The effect of the formulations was determined at the end of the period by the change in their anthropometric indices using 'per protocol' analysis. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS There were 157 evaluable participants of whom 54 received the SMBF, 57 received the SNMBF and 46 received the HBF. The overall result showed a significant improvement in the mean weight and MUAC of the children. Subgroup analysis showed a significant improvement in mean weight and MUAC among children aged 6-23 months (p = 0.013) and improvement in MUAC only among those aged 24-59 months (p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS The formulations significantly improved the mean weight and MUAC of children with MAM.
Background: Low serum calcium (hypocalcemia) occurs in sickle cell anaemic (SCA) children. Concom... more Background: Low serum calcium (hypocalcemia) occurs in sickle cell anaemic (SCA) children. Concomitant presence of prolonged corrected QT (QTc) interval on electrocardiogram can ascertain hypocalcemia, especially during vaso-occlusive painful crises (VOC). Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between hypocalcemia and VOC. Methods: It was a prospective cohort study of 38 SCA children aged 4–17 years during VOC and when the same children were in steady state. Information regarding bone pain and clinical examination were obtained, following which electrocardiography was done during both clinical states. Blood was drawn for total calcium and serum albumin estimation. Results: The mean (standard deviation [SD]) of total calcium was significantly lower during VOC (1.90 [0.19] mmol/l) than during follow-up steady state (2.24 [0.22] mmol/l), P < 0.001. The mean rank of QTc interval was significantly higher during VOC (19.93) than in follow-up steady state (14.50), ...
Background The aim of the study was to determine the coverage of intermittent preventive treatmen... more Background The aim of the study was to determine the coverage of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy (IPTp) and its relationship with delivery outcomes among obstetric referral cases at the district level of healthcare. Methods An implementation research within three districts of the Greater Accra region was conducted from May 2017 to February 2018, to assess the role of an enhanced inter-facility communication system on processes and outcomes of obstetric referrals. A cross-sectional analysis of the data on IPTp coverage as well as delivery outcomes for the period of study was conducted, for all the referrals ending up in deliveries. Primary outcomes were maternal and neonatal complications at delivery. IPTp coverage was determined as percentages and classified as adequate or inadequate. Associated factors were determined using Chi square. Odds ratios (OR, 95% CI) were estimated for predictors of adequate IPTp dose coverage for associations with delivery outco...
Vaccination is a cost-effective public health intervention, yet evidence abounds that vaccination... more Vaccination is a cost-effective public health intervention, yet evidence abounds that vaccination uptake is still poor in many low- and middle-income countries. Traditional and Religious Leaders play a substantial role in improving the uptake of health services such as immunization. However, there is paucity of evidence on the cost-effectiveness of using such strategies. This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of using a multi-faceted intervention that included traditional and religious leaders for community engagement to improve uptake of routine immunisation services in communities in Cross River State, Southern Nigeria. The target population for the intervention was traditional and religious leaders in randomly selected communities in Cross River State. The impact of the intervention on the uptake of routine vaccination among children 0 to 23 months was assessed using a cluster randomized trials. Outcome assessments were performed at the end of the project (36 months).T...
Background: Plasmodium malariae is one of five malaria parasite species prevalent across sub-Saha... more Background: Plasmodium malariae is one of five malaria parasite species prevalent across sub-Saharan Africa, but with limited data on its prevalence and epidemiology across most endemic settings. Specific clinical diagnosis of P. malariae and other non-falciparum malaria parasites is uncommon and the most widely used malaria diagnostic tool, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), predominantly targets P. falciparum while nonspecifically identifying co-infecting species as pan-species. Moreover, undetectable submicroscopic infections of these non-falciparum infections are likely and constitute a reservoir that could sustain transmission and challenge the achievement of elimination goals. This study aimed to explore prevalence of P. malariae infections in a high malaria transmission setting in Nigeria. Methods: A preliminary survey was first carried out in two sites to compare prevalence of non-falciparum species in southern Nigeria, results of which informed subsequent sample collection. Stu...
Priority setting to identify topical and context relevant questions for systematic reviews involv... more Priority setting to identify topical and context relevant questions for systematic reviews involves an explicit, iterative and inclusive process. In resource-constrained settings of low-income and middle-income countries, priority setting for health related research activities ensures efficient use of resources. In this paper, we critically reflect on the approaches and specific processes adopted across three regions of Africa, present some of the outcomes and share the lessons learnt while carrying out these activities. Priority setting for new systematic reviews was conducted between 2016 and 2018 across three regions in Africa. Different approaches were used: Multimodal approach (Central Africa), Modified Delphi approach (West Africa) and Multilevel stakeholder discussion (Southern-Eastern Africa). Several questions that can feed into systematic reviews have emerged from these activities. We have learnt that collaborative subregional efforts using an integrative approach can effe...
Background The spread of SP resistance may compromise the effectiveness of intermittent preventiv... more Background The spread of SP resistance may compromise the effectiveness of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy (MiP) with sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) across Africa. However, there is no recommended alternative medicine for IPTp or alternative strategy for prevention of MiP. This poses problems for the prevention of MiP. This study investigated, whether screening with a rapid diagnostic test for malaria at routine antenatal clinic attendances and treatment of only those who are positive (intermittent screening and treatment) with artemether–lumefantrine is as effective and safe as IPTp-SP in pregnant women. Methods During antenatal clinic sessions at the General Hospital Calabar, Nigeria, held between October 2013 and November 2014, 459 pregnant women were randomized into either the current standard IPTp-SP or intermittent screening and treatment with artemether–lumefantrine (ISTp-AL). All women received a long-lasting insecticide-treated net at enrolmen...
Background Vaccination coverage levels fall short of the Global Vaccine and Action Plan 90% targe... more Background Vaccination coverage levels fall short of the Global Vaccine and Action Plan 90% target in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs). Having identified traditional and religious leaders (TRLs) as potential public health change agents, this study aimed at assessing the effect of training them to support routine immunisation for the purpose of improving uptake of childhood vaccines in Cross River State, Nigeria. Methods A cluster-randomised controlled study was conducted between 2016 and 2019. Of the 18 Local Government Areas (LGA) in Cross River State, eight (four urban and four rural LGAs) were randomized into the intervention and control study arms. A multi-component intervention involving the training of traditional and religious leaders was implemented in the four intervention LGAs. Baseline, midline and endline surveys collected information on children aged 0–23 months. The effect of the intervention on outcomes including the proportion fully up-to-date with vaccinati...
Additional file 3. Factors associated with third-trimester anaemia (<11g/dl) in study women (m... more Additional file 3. Factors associated with third-trimester anaemia (<11g/dl) in study women (mITT analyses).
BACKGROUND Moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) causes impaired anthropometry, which can be reversed... more BACKGROUND Moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) causes impaired anthropometry, which can be reversed by supplementary feeding. The present study aimed to compare the effect of a standardised milk-based formulation (SMBF), standardised non-milk based formulation (SNMBF) and hospital-based formulation (HBF) on anthropometric indices of children aged <5 years with MAM. METHODS This was a randomised clinical trial during which eligible children aged 6-59 months with MAM received SMBF, SNMBF or HBF over 4 months. They were followed up on a biweekly basis during which their weight, mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) and length/height were measured. The effect of the formulations was determined at the end of the period by the change in their anthropometric indices using 'per protocol' analysis. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS There were 157 evaluable participants of whom 54 received the SMBF, 57 received the SNMBF and 46 received the HBF. The overall result showed a significant improvement in the mean weight and MUAC of the children. Subgroup analysis showed a significant improvement in mean weight and MUAC among children aged 6-23 months (p = 0.013) and improvement in MUAC only among those aged 24-59 months (p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS The formulations significantly improved the mean weight and MUAC of children with MAM.
Background: Low serum calcium (hypocalcemia) occurs in sickle cell anaemic (SCA) children. Concom... more Background: Low serum calcium (hypocalcemia) occurs in sickle cell anaemic (SCA) children. Concomitant presence of prolonged corrected QT (QTc) interval on electrocardiogram can ascertain hypocalcemia, especially during vaso-occlusive painful crises (VOC). Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between hypocalcemia and VOC. Methods: It was a prospective cohort study of 38 SCA children aged 4–17 years during VOC and when the same children were in steady state. Information regarding bone pain and clinical examination were obtained, following which electrocardiography was done during both clinical states. Blood was drawn for total calcium and serum albumin estimation. Results: The mean (standard deviation [SD]) of total calcium was significantly lower during VOC (1.90 [0.19] mmol/l) than during follow-up steady state (2.24 [0.22] mmol/l), P < 0.001. The mean rank of QTc interval was significantly higher during VOC (19.93) than in follow-up steady state (14.50), ...
Background The aim of the study was to determine the coverage of intermittent preventive treatmen... more Background The aim of the study was to determine the coverage of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy (IPTp) and its relationship with delivery outcomes among obstetric referral cases at the district level of healthcare. Methods An implementation research within three districts of the Greater Accra region was conducted from May 2017 to February 2018, to assess the role of an enhanced inter-facility communication system on processes and outcomes of obstetric referrals. A cross-sectional analysis of the data on IPTp coverage as well as delivery outcomes for the period of study was conducted, for all the referrals ending up in deliveries. Primary outcomes were maternal and neonatal complications at delivery. IPTp coverage was determined as percentages and classified as adequate or inadequate. Associated factors were determined using Chi square. Odds ratios (OR, 95% CI) were estimated for predictors of adequate IPTp dose coverage for associations with delivery outco...
Vaccination is a cost-effective public health intervention, yet evidence abounds that vaccination... more Vaccination is a cost-effective public health intervention, yet evidence abounds that vaccination uptake is still poor in many low- and middle-income countries. Traditional and Religious Leaders play a substantial role in improving the uptake of health services such as immunization. However, there is paucity of evidence on the cost-effectiveness of using such strategies. This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of using a multi-faceted intervention that included traditional and religious leaders for community engagement to improve uptake of routine immunisation services in communities in Cross River State, Southern Nigeria. The target population for the intervention was traditional and religious leaders in randomly selected communities in Cross River State. The impact of the intervention on the uptake of routine vaccination among children 0 to 23 months was assessed using a cluster randomized trials. Outcome assessments were performed at the end of the project (36 months).T...
Background: Plasmodium malariae is one of five malaria parasite species prevalent across sub-Saha... more Background: Plasmodium malariae is one of five malaria parasite species prevalent across sub-Saharan Africa, but with limited data on its prevalence and epidemiology across most endemic settings. Specific clinical diagnosis of P. malariae and other non-falciparum malaria parasites is uncommon and the most widely used malaria diagnostic tool, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), predominantly targets P. falciparum while nonspecifically identifying co-infecting species as pan-species. Moreover, undetectable submicroscopic infections of these non-falciparum infections are likely and constitute a reservoir that could sustain transmission and challenge the achievement of elimination goals. This study aimed to explore prevalence of P. malariae infections in a high malaria transmission setting in Nigeria. Methods: A preliminary survey was first carried out in two sites to compare prevalence of non-falciparum species in southern Nigeria, results of which informed subsequent sample collection. Stu...
Priority setting to identify topical and context relevant questions for systematic reviews involv... more Priority setting to identify topical and context relevant questions for systematic reviews involves an explicit, iterative and inclusive process. In resource-constrained settings of low-income and middle-income countries, priority setting for health related research activities ensures efficient use of resources. In this paper, we critically reflect on the approaches and specific processes adopted across three regions of Africa, present some of the outcomes and share the lessons learnt while carrying out these activities. Priority setting for new systematic reviews was conducted between 2016 and 2018 across three regions in Africa. Different approaches were used: Multimodal approach (Central Africa), Modified Delphi approach (West Africa) and Multilevel stakeholder discussion (Southern-Eastern Africa). Several questions that can feed into systematic reviews have emerged from these activities. We have learnt that collaborative subregional efforts using an integrative approach can effe...
Background The spread of SP resistance may compromise the effectiveness of intermittent preventiv... more Background The spread of SP resistance may compromise the effectiveness of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy (MiP) with sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) across Africa. However, there is no recommended alternative medicine for IPTp or alternative strategy for prevention of MiP. This poses problems for the prevention of MiP. This study investigated, whether screening with a rapid diagnostic test for malaria at routine antenatal clinic attendances and treatment of only those who are positive (intermittent screening and treatment) with artemether–lumefantrine is as effective and safe as IPTp-SP in pregnant women. Methods During antenatal clinic sessions at the General Hospital Calabar, Nigeria, held between October 2013 and November 2014, 459 pregnant women were randomized into either the current standard IPTp-SP or intermittent screening and treatment with artemether–lumefantrine (ISTp-AL). All women received a long-lasting insecticide-treated net at enrolmen...
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