Elizabeth Kishiki, George Kabona, Grace Mwangi, Harran Mkocha, Fortunate Shija, Paul Courtright, Robert Geneau
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Purpose: Despite the importance of trachomatous trichiasis (TT) case-finding activities in national trachoma elimination campaigns, the scientific literature on the determinants of good outcomes - finding and managing all TT cases - is still sparse. In Tanzania, we studied differences in case finding activities and outcomes between male and female case finders.
Methods: This case study was conducted in two districts in Tanzania in 2021-2022. Quantitative data were extracted from case finder forms and outreach registers, and qualitative data were collected through direct observation, interviews, and focus group discussions.
Results: Across both districts, more males were trained as case finders (68%). Productivity differences were minor, not statistically significant, between male and female case finders regarding the number of households visited and the number of adults examined. Whether identified by a male or female case finder, similar proportions of men and women suspected to have TT were subsequently managed. There is evidence that suggests that female case finders were more active in supporting suspected and confirmed TT cases to access follow-up services.
Conclusion: The findings do not suggest that gender balance in the recruitment of TT case finders would have led to better TT campaign outcomes in the study districts. Programmes may benefit from integrating gender considerations in the design and implementation of case finding activities - e.g. in monitoring gender differences among case finders and the relationship with key outcomes. This study also highlights how women with TT face greater barriers to care.
期刊介绍:
Ophthalmic Epidemiology is dedicated to the publication of original research into eye and vision health in the fields of epidemiology, public health and the prevention of blindness. Ophthalmic Epidemiology publishes editorials, original research reports, systematic reviews and meta-analysis articles, brief communications and letters to the editor on all subjects related to ophthalmic epidemiology. A broad range of topics is suitable, such as: evaluating the risk of ocular diseases, general and specific study designs, screening program implementation and evaluation, eye health care access, delivery and outcomes, therapeutic efficacy or effectiveness, disease prognosis and quality of life, cost-benefit analysis, biostatistical theory and risk factor analysis. We are looking to expand our engagement with reports of international interest, including those regarding problems affecting developing countries, although reports from all over the world potentially are suitable. Clinical case reports, small case series (not enough for a cohort analysis) articles and animal research reports are not appropriate for this journal.