Health Sciences and Technology

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An Overview of Maternity healthcare Monitoring in Developing Nations
(Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology, 2024) Kyambille, Godphrey G.; Mvuma, Aloys N.; Machuve, Dina
A healthcare monitoring arrangement is essential for frequently monitoring a patient's health status. Specifically, maternal healthcare systems for tracking are utilized to evaluate the clinical status and monitor any abnormal condition changes during all three trimesters. This paper's objective is to conduct an extensive literature review and acknowledge earlier initiatives and studies conducted previously in maternal health care monitoring. This review focuses on accumulating information from earlier work and presents a general overview of previous studies concerning maternal health care monitoring (MHCM). The paper focuses on the maternal healthcare systems in developing countries accessed by pregnant women during the antenatal period. Furthermore, this paper highlights the challenges in the maternal health sector that include inadequate work conditions for health workers, home-based birth practices, long distances to healthcare facilities, and long waiting times in health facilities. The paper indicates the potential opportunities to strengthen maternal healthcare services and allow effective access to maternal healthcare facilities by pregnant women
Artificial Intelligence in determining optimal questions in assessing social socio-economic status of individuals for routine immunisation services in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2025-08-05) Mzurikwao, Deogratias; Edward, Mhamilawa Lwidiko; Simba, Daudi; Balandya, Belinda; Assenga , Evelyne; Okanda, Nyatega Evelyne; Zeramula, Jonathan; Wibonela, Seif; Mzurikwao, Zacharia; Sunguya, Bruno
Accurate determination of socio-economic status (SES) is crucial for equitable access to immunization services. Existing SES assessment tools, like the DHS wealth index, are comprehensive but impractical for routine clinical settings due to their length. Objective: To identify the minimum number of questions that can validly determine SES using artificial intelligence (AI), and to assess their validity compared to the standard DHS wealth index. Methods: This study applied Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) using the DHS wealth index as the gold standard. Data were collected from routine RCH clinics in Tanzania. CNN was used to extract weights for each question, and ANN was trained to validate different subsets of questions.
Biotechnological Innovations to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance and Advance Global Health Equity.
(MDPI, 2025-09-05) Rugarabamu, Sima; Mwanyika, Gaspary
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health emergency that threatens the effectiveness of modern medicine, exacerbating healthcare costs, morbidity, and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Traditional approaches to antimicrobial development and stewardship have proven inadequate in curbing the rapid emergence and spread of resistant pathogens. This review explores cutting-edge biotechnological innovations as sustainable, precision-based solutions to combat AMR and promote global health equity. A comprehensive narrative review was conducted using literature published between 2018 and 2023 from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Peer-reviewed studies focusing on novel antimicrobial strategies were thematically analyzed, with attention to efficacy, feasibility, and translational readiness. Key innovations identified include nanotechnology-enhanced antimicrobial delivery, bacterio-phage therapy, CRISPR-Cas gene editing, immunotherapy, and personalized medicine.These strategies demonstrated substantial in vitro and in vivo efficacy, such as >90% MRSA biofilm reduction via silver nanoparticles and 95% carbapenem susceptibility restoration in E. coli using CRISPR-Cas9. When integrated with machine learning and rapid diagnostics, these approaches enable precision-targeted therapies and data-informed stewardship, offering scalable solutions adaptable to diverse healthcare systems. Antimicrobial resistance demands urgent, equitable innovation. Integrating biotechnologies like CRISPR, phage therapy, and nanomedicine with data-driven tools offers promising solutions. To ensure real-world impact, we recommend establishing regionally tailored translational research platforms and public–private partnerships as the most effective strategy to scale innovations and strengthen AMR response in low-resource settings.
Cerebral Death: Unraveling the Mystery of the Silent Mind
(MJRD, 2024-12-05) Akram, Muhammad; Ojija, Fredrick; Suke, Mary Nicholaus
The permanent loss of all brain stem functions, such as breathing, awareness, and cranial nerve reflexes, is known as brain stem death (BSD), and it presents a significant medical and ethical issue. While other bodily functions, such as heart activity and circulation, can be maintained with medical intervention, BSD is defined by the cessation of brain stem activity. The key characteristic that distinguishes BSD from other conditions, such as coma or a persistent vegetative state, is the complete and irreversible loss of brain stem function—a critical control centre for basic physiological processes. Diagnosing BSD requires strict clinical criteria and diagnostic testing to confirm the full and permanent nature of the condition. This typically involves a comprehensive neurological examination, assessment of cranial nerve reflexes, and confirmation through additional tests, such as cerebral blood flow studies or electroencephalography (EEG). A diagnosis of BSD carries significant ethical and legal implications, particularly in relation to organ donation, as it often plays a role in identifying potential donors. The ethical considerations surrounding BSD include its impact on families, the distinction between death and end-of-life care, and the challenges posed by varying legal and cultural perspectives. It highlights the importance of a clear diagnosis, obtaining informed consent, and adhering to established medical protocols to uphold human dignity and ethical standards. As medical technology advances and societal views evolve, the discussion around brain stem death continues to be a critical issue in both bioethics and modern medical practice.
Comparative Epidemiological Analysis of the 2023 and 2025 Marburg Virus Disease Outbreaks in Kagera Region, Tanzania
(Elsevier., 2025-11-25) Rugarabamu, Sima; Ngingo,Baraka L.; Kemibala,Elison E.; Mwanyika,Gaspary
Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) is a severe zoonotic hemorrhagic fever with high case fatality rates (CFR). Tanzania's Kagera region experienced MVD outbreaks in 2023 and 2025, offering critical insights into evolving epidemiological trends and the effectiveness of response strategies. This study compares these outbreaks to inform future preparedness.
Dengue Virus Infection and Associated Risk Factors in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis
(MDPI, 2021) Mwanyika, Gaspary O.; Mboera, Leonard E. G.; Rugarabamu, Sima; Ngingo, Baraka; Sindato, Calvin; Lutwama, Julius J.; Paweska, Janusz T.; Misinzo, Gerald
Dengue contributes a significant burden on global public health and economies. In Africa, the burden of dengue virus (DENV) infection is not well described. This review was undertaken to determine the prevalence of dengue and associated risk factors. A literature search was done on PubMed/MEDLINE,Scopus,Embase, andGoogleScholar databases to identify articles published be tween 1960 and 2020. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effect model at a 95% confidence interval, followed by subgroup meta-analysis to determine the overall prevalence. Between 1960 and 2020, 45 outbreaks were identified, of which 17 and 16 occurred in East and West Africa, respectively. Dengue virus serotype 1 (DENV-1) and DENV-2 were the dominant serotypes contributing to 60% of the epidemics. Of 2211 cases reported between 2009 and 2020; 1954 (88.4%) were reported during outbreaks. Overall, the prevalence of dengue was 29% (95% CI: 20–39%) and 3% (95% CI: 1–5%) during the outbreak and non-outbreak periods, respectively. Old age (6/21 studies), lack of mosquito control (6/21), urban residence (4/21), climate change (3/21), and recent history of travel (3/21) were the leading risk factors. This review reports a high burden of dengue and increased risk of severe disease in Africa. Our findings provide useful information for clinical practice and health policy decisions to implement effective interventions
Detection of Microbial Contaminants in Food and Food Products.
(IGI Global Scientific Publishing, 2025) MaMatthew Chidozie Ogwu; Tonjock Rosemary Kinge; Soumia El Malahi; Fredrick Ojija
The detection of microbial contaminants in food and food products is a cornerstone of public health protection and food safety assurance. As foodborne diseases continue to pose a global burden, with pathogens such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and norovirus accounting for millions of illnesses annually, the need for robust and reliable detection methodologies has become increasingly urgent. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of microbial detection in food systems. It begins by exploring the sources and path ways of microbial contamination across the “farm- to- fork” continuum, highlighting critical control points and microbial risk factors. Emphasis is placed on sampling strategies, including representative sampling, sample preparation, and enrichment protocols, which form the foundation of accurate microbial detection. The chapter then examines diverse detection strategies, including culture- based methods, immunological assays (such as enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay and lateral flow tests), and molecular techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR), quantitative PCR, loop- mediated isothermal amplification, and next- generation sequencing. Emerging technologies such as biosensors, Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats- based diagnostics, and metagenomics are also discussed for their potential to enhance sensitivity, specificity, and rapidity in pathogen detection. Each technique is assessed in terms of sensitivity, specificity, operational feasibility, and its integration into food safety risk management frameworks. Special attention is given to validation standards, harmonization efforts, and the challenges of deploying these technologies in low- resource settings. The chapter concludes by identifying emerging trends, such as artificial intelligence- assisted detection and portable diagnostics, which hold promise for revolutionizing microbial monitoring in food systems. By bridging microbiological principles with practical applications and regulatory contexts, offering critical insights for researchers, food safety practitioners, and policymakers.
Determinants of acceptability of schistosomiasis mass drug administration among primary school children in Busega District, Northwestern Tanzania.
(OPEN ACCESS, 2025-07-18) Yunzu Edward, Irene; Maritim, Patricia
Schistosomiasis is endemic in Tanzania, with a prevalence ranging between 12.7% to 87.6%. Mass drug administration (MDA) with praziquantel is the main recommended choice of preventive treatment for the disease. Low treatment coverage rates (46.6%) in Busega District, Northwestern Tanzania which are far less than the recommended effective coverage rates of ≥ 75% could indicate low acceptability and poor uptake of MDA. This study sought to establish factors associated with acceptability of schisto somiasis mass drug administration among primary school children in Busega District.
Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Readiness and Hesitancy Among Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa
(PLOS Global Public Health, 2023-07-14) Abubakari, Sulemana W.; Workneh, Firehiwot; Asante, Kwaku P.; Hemler, Elena, C.; Madzorera, Isabel; Wang, Dongqing; Ismail, Abbas; Assefa, Nega; Azemraw, Temesgen; Lankoande, Bruno; Nuhu, Abdul R.; Chukwu, Angela; Mapendo, Frank; Millogo, Ourohire´; Olufemi, Adedokun A.; Okpara, Daniel; Boudo, Valentin; Mwanyika-Sando, Mary; Berhane, Yemane; Baernighausen, Till; Oduola, Ayoade; Vuai, Said; Sie, Ali; Soura, Abdramane; Killewo, Japhet; Tajudeen, Raji; Fawzi, Wafaie W.; Smith, Emily R.
There is very limited data on the extent and determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adults living in sub-Saharan Africa since the global roll-out of vaccines began in 2021. This multi-country survey sought to investigate COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and other predictors of readiness to get vaccinated. We conducted surveys among adults resid- ing in nine urban and rural areas in Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania in late 2021. Log binomial regression models were used to identify prevalence and factors associated with vaccine hesitancy and beliefs around COVID-19 misinformation. We com- pleted a total of 2,833 interviews. Among all respondents, 9% had never heard of a COVID- 19 vaccine, 12% had been vaccinated, and 20% knew someone else who had been vacci- nated. The prevalence of vaccine hesitancy varied by country (Ethiopia 29%, Burkina Faso 33%, Nigeria 34%, Ghana 42%, Tanzania 65%), but not by rural or urban context. People who did not think the vaccine was safe or effective, or who were unsure about it, were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. Those who reported they did not have a trusted source of infor- mation about the vaccine (aPR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.18,1.31) and those who thought the vaccine would not be made available to them within the year were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. Women were more likely to be vaccine hesitant (aPR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.19,1.43) and believe COVID-19 falsehoods (aPR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02,1.08). The most commonly believed false- hoods were that the vaccine was developed too fast and that there was not enough informa- tion about whether the vaccine was effective or not. Educational campaigns targeted at misinformation and tailored to suit each country are recommended to build trust in COVID- 19 vaccines and reduce hesitancy.
Development and Rapid Assessment of Community-Based Health Education Package for the Control of Taenia Solium Taeniasis/Cysticercosis in Tanzania.
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2026-07) Nyangi, Chacha; Mkupasi, Ernatus Martin; Mahonge, Christopher; Churi, Ayubu Jacob; Winkler, Andrea Sylvia; Ngowi, Helena Aminiel
Background: We conducted this study to develop and rapidly assess a community-based health education package (CHEP) to serve as a guide to improving knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) for controlling T. solium cysticercosis Taeniasis (TSCT) in endemic areas in Tanzania. Methods: Data for the development of the (CHEP) was collected through a questionnaire and observation of household infrastructure. We conducted and analyzed 12 focus group discussions (FGDs) and 38 key informant interviews (KIIs) using ATLAS.ti 8. A household survey using a questionnaire was conducted on 480 respondents and analyzed using SPSS by conducting a chi-square test. Results: The developed CHEP included the following key messages: (1) improving knowledge and attitudes towards TSCT transmission, causes, health effects, treatment, and control measures, (2) proper pork preparation and general food handling practices, (3) good pig husbandry practices, and (4) improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices. The CHEP developed comprises a Training of Trainers (TOT) manual, a leaflet/brochure, a poster, and a handbook. The results from the rapid assessment reported a statistically significant improvement in knowledge regarding the link between epilepsy and cysticercosis (p<0.001) and in the practice of washing fruits and vegetables (p=0.025). Conclusion: Therefore, it is recommended that critical stakeholders conduct one health approach toward implementing CHEP in areas affected by TSCT to control the disease.
Dynamical Analysis of Mpox Disease with Environmental Effects
(MDPI, 2025-05-29) Helikumi, Mlyashimbi; Ojija, Fredrick; Mhlanga, Adquate
In this study, we develop a fractional-order mathematical model for investigating the transmission dynamics of monkeypox (Mpox), accounting for interactions between humans, rodents, and environmental reservoirs. The model uniquely integrates two key control strategies—public health awareness and environmental sanitation—often over- looked in previous models. We analyze the model’s well-posedness by establishing the existence, uniqueness, and positivity of solutions using the fixed-point theorem. Using data from the Democratic Republic of Congo, we estimate the model parameters and demon- strate that the fractional-order model (φ = 0.5) fits real-world data more accurately than its integer-order counterpart (φ = 1). The sensitivity analysis using partial rank correlation coefficients highlights the key drivers of disease spread. Numerical simulations reveal that the memory effects inherent in fractional derivatives significantly influence the epidemic’s trajectory. Importantly, our results show that increasing awareness (ε) and sanitation efforts (η) can substantially reduce transmission, with sustained suppression of Mpox when both parameters exceed 90%. These findings highlight the synergistic impact of behavioral and environmental interventions in controlling emerging zoonotic diseases.
Dynamical Analysis of Mpox Disease with Environmental Effects
(MDPI, 2025-05-29) Mlyashimbi, Helikumi; Ojija, Fredrick; Mhlanga, Adquate
In this study, we develop a fractional-order mathematical model for investigating the transmission dynamics of monkeypox (Mpox), accounting for interactions between humans, rodents, and environmental reservoirs. The model uniquely integrates two key control strategies—public health awareness and environmental sanitation—often overlooked in previous models. We analyze the model’s well-posedness by establishing the existence, uniqueness, and positivity of solutions using the fixed-point theorem. Using data from the Democratic Republic of Congo, we estimate the model parameters and demonstrate that the fractional-order model (ϕ = 0.5) fits real-world data more accurately than its integer-order counterpart (ϕ = 1). The sensitivity analysis using partial rank correlation coefficients highlights the key drivers of disease spread. Numerical simulations reveal that the memory effects inherent in fractional derivatives significantly influence the epidemic’s trajectory. Importantly, our results show that increasing awareness (ϵ) and sanitation efforts (η) can substantially reduce transmission, with sustained suppression of Mpox when both parameters exceed 90%. These findings highlight the synergistic impact of behavioral and environmental interventions in controlling emerging zoonotic diseases.
Dynamical and Optimal Control Analysis of a Seasonal Trypanosoma Brucei Rhodesiense Model
(2020-02-27) Helikumi Mlyashimbi, Kgosimore Moatlhodi, Kuznetsov Dmitry and Mushayabasa Steady
The effects of seasonal variations on the epidemiology of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense disease is well documented. In particular, seasonal variations alter vector development rates and behaviour, thereby influencing the transmission dynamics of the disease. In this paper, a mathematical model for Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense disease that incorporates seasonal effects is presented. Owing to the importance of understanding the effective ways of managing the spread of the disease, the impact of time dependent intervention strategies has been investigated. Two controls representing human awareness campaigns and insecticides use have been incorporated into the model. The main goal of introducing these controls is to minimize the number of infected host population at low implementation costs. Although insecticides usage is associated with adverse effects to the environment, in this study we have observed that by totally neglecting insecticide use, effective disease management may present a formidable challenge. However, if human awareness is combined with low insecticide usage then the disease can be effectively managed.
Dynamics of a Fractional-Order Chikungunya Model with Asymptomatic Infectious Class
(Hindawi, 2022) Helikumi, Mlyashimbi; Eustace, Gideon; Mushayabasa, Steady
In this paper, a nonlinear fractional-order chikungunya disease model that incorporates asymptomatic infectious individuals is proposed and analyzed. The main interest of this work is to investigate the role of memory effects on the dynamics of chikungunya. Qualitative analysis of the model’s equilibria showed that there exists a threshold quantity which governs persistence and extinction of the disease. Model parameters were estimated based on the 2015 weekly reported cases in Colombia. The Adams-Bashforth-Moulton method was used to numerically solve the proposed model. We investigated the role of asymptomatic infectious patients on short- and long-term dynamics of the diseases. We also determined threshold levels for the efficacy of preventative strategies that results in effective management of the disease. We believe that our model can provide invaluable insights for public health authorities to predict the effect of chikungunya transmission and analyze its underlying factors and to guide new control efforts.
Ecological Consequences of Antibiotics Pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa: Understanding Sources, Pathways, and Potential Implications
(ELSEVIER, 2025-01-23) Ripanda, Asha; Rwiza, Mwemezi J.; Nyanza, Elias Charles; Hossein, Miraji; Alfred, Mateso Said; Mahmoud, Alaa El Din; Murthy, H.C. Ananda; Bakari, Ramadhani; Vuai, Said Ali Hamad; Machunda, Revocatus L.
In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the increasing use of antibiotics in human and veterinary medicine, combined with inadequate waste and water management systems, has intensified the problem of antibiotic pollution. Untreated or partially treated wastewater from industries, agricultural runoff, residential areas, and healthcare facilities is frequently discharged into the environment, often used for irrigation, contributing to antibiotic accumulation, the spread of resistance genes, and the rise of antibiotic resistance, posing serious threats to public health and environmental sustainability. The region's climatic conditions favour the survival and proliferation of microbial communities, including pathogens. Additionally, the high prevalence of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, which often necessitate antibiotic use, further amplifies the issue. Systemic challenges, including poor waste management, inadequate or absent wastewater treatment infrastructure, weak regulatory enforcement, and the over-the-counter sale of antibiotics, exacerbate the crisis. Limited healthcare access often results in self-medication and improper antibiotic use, accelerating resistance spread. Evidence shows antibiotics in surface water, groundwater, effluents, food crops, environmental samples, and aquatic organisms, indicating their potential circulation through the food chain. However, a lack of comprehensive data on antibiotic pollution and its impacts on aquatic ecosystems in SSA hampers a thorough understanding of its scope and long-term effects. Addressing this crisis requires identifying contamination hotspots, evaluating ecological impacts, and establishing robust, region-specific regulatory frameworks to ensure environmental and public health safety.
Estimating Risk of Introduction of Ebola Virus Disease from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Tanzania: A Qualitative Assessment
(MDPI, 2022) Rugarabamu, Sima; George, Janeth; Mbanzulu, Kennedy M.; Mwanyika, Gaspary O.; Misinzo, Gerald; Mboera, Leonard E. G.
Between April 2018 and November 2020, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) experi- enced its 11th Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak. Tanzania’s cross-border interactions with DRC through regular visitors, traders, and refugees are of concern, given the potential for further spread to neighboring countries. This study aimed to estimate the risk of introducing EVD to Tanzania from DRC. National data for flights, boats, and car transport schedules from DRC to Tanzania covering the period of May 2018 to June 2019 were analyzed to describe population movement via land, port, and air travel and coupled with available surveillance data to model the risk of EVD entry. The land border crossing was considered the most frequently used means of travel and the most likely pathway of introducing EVD from DRC to Tanzania. High probabilities of introducing EVD from DRC to Tanzania through the assessed pathways were associated with the viability of the pathogen and low detection capacity at the ports of entry. This study provides important information regarding the elements contributing to the risk associated with the introduction of EBV in Tanzania. It also indicates that infected humans arriving via land are the most likely pathway of EBV entry, and therefore, mitigation strategies including land border surveillance should be strengthened.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of Tanzanian Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana) Leaf Extract against Multi-Drug Resistance Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi
(MJRD, 2024-12-05) Ngingo, Baraka; Magesa, Felista; Shebughe, Ramadhani; Rugumisa, Bernadether; Lwilla, Johnson; Mzena, Theopista; Ruhembe, Carolyne
This study was conducted to evaluate in-vitro antibacterial activities of methanolic leaf extract of Physalis peruviana growing in Dodoma, Tanzania, against multidrug-resistant bacteria (Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi) using agar well diffusion and standard microdilution methods. Moreover, leaf extract was screened qualitatively for the presence of phytoconstituents using standard methods. Methanolicleaf extract of P. peruviana (from 0.2 mg/mL to 0.4 mg/mL concentrations) showed antibacterial activity against tested E. coli and S. typhi with zones of inhibition ranging from 19 to 21 mm and 17.7 to 22 mm, respectively. The micro-dilution method revealed the minimum inhibitory concentration of methanolic leaf extract of P. peruviana to be 10 µg/µL and 5 µg/µL for E. coli and S. typhi, respectively. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of methanolic leaf extract of P. peruviana identified the presence of tannins, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, and phenols. Methanolic leaf extract of P. peruviana has antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria (E. coli and S. typhi). This plant may be a promising new source of future antibiotics that potentially combat the existing problem of antimicrobial resistance.
GRAPEVNE - Graphical Analytical Pipeline Development Environment for Infectious Diseases
(Wellcome Open Research, 2025-05-29) Brittain, John-Stuart; Inward, Rhys; Mwanyika, Gaspary; Tegally, Houriiyah; Githinji, George; Tsui , Joseph; Gutierrez, Bernardo; Huynh, Tuyen; Kifle Tessema, Sofonias; McCrone, John T.; Bhatt, Samir; Dasgupta, Abhishek; Ratcliffe, Stephen; Kraemer, Moritz U.G.
The increase in volume and diversity of relevant data on infectious diseases and their drivers provides opportunities to generate new scientific insights that can support ‘real-time’ decision-making in public health across outbreak contexts and enhance pandemic preparedness. However, utilising the wide array of clinical, genomic, epidemiological, and spatial data collected globally is difficult due to differences in data preprocessing, data science capacity, and access to hardware and cloud resources. To facilitate large-scale and routine analyses of infectious disease data at the local level (i.e. without sharing data across borders), we developed GRAPEVNE (Graphical Analytical Pipeline Development Environment), a platform enabling the construction of modular pipelines designed for complex and repetitive data analysis workflows through an intuitive graphical interface
Impact of Health Education Interventions for Control of Taenia solium Cysticercosis/Taeniasis in Endemic Countries: A Systematic Review
(Wiley, 2025-10-08) Nyangi,Chacha; Mkupasi, Ernatus Martin .; Ngowi, Helena Aminiel; Mahonge,Christopher; Winkler, Andrea Sylvia
Despite some control efforts, Taenia solium cysticercosis/taeniasis (TSCT) remains widespread in many low-income countries across sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and Asia. With increased global interaction, the risk of infection also rises in highincome countries (HICs) and middle-income countries (MICs). Community knowledge and awareness are crucial to influence behavioural change and thus aid in controlling the parasite. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of health education interventions in managing TSCT to inform future disease control strategies. Papers published up to June 2024 were searched through PubMed and Google search engines. Studies evaluating interventions involving health education aimed at improving knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) to alter behavioural responses regarding TSCT were included. Initially, 392 studies were identified, with 21 publications ultimately included in this review. Although behavioural changes and reductions in disease prevalence were challenging to evaluate across the 21 studies, most concluded that health education, developed with community participation, enhanced KAPs, modified behaviour and reduced disease prevalence in the short term.
Impact of Health Education Interventions for Control of Taenia solium Cysticercosis/Taeniasis in Endemic Countries: A Systematic Review.
(WILEY, 2025-10-08) Nyangi, Chacha; Martin, Ernatus; Helena, Mkupasi; Ngowi, Aminiel; Mahonge, Christopher
Despite some control efforts, Taenia solium cysticercosis/taeniasis (TSCT) remains widespread in many low-income countries across sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and Asia. With increased global interaction, the risk of infection also rises in highincome countries (HICs) and middle-income countries (MICs). Community knowledge and awareness are crucial to influence behavioural change and thus aid in controlling the parasite. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of health education interventions in managing TSCT to inform future disease control strategies. Papers published up to June 2024 were searched through PubMed and Google search engines. Studies evaluating interventions involving health education aimed at improving knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) to alter behavioural responses regarding TSCT were included. Initially, 392 studies were identified, with 21 publications ultimately included in this review. Although behavioural changes and reductions in disease prevalence were challenging to evaluate across the 21 studies, most concluded that health education, developed with community participation, enhanced KAPs, modified behaviour and reduced disease prevalence in the short term.

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