edmund J kayombo - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by edmund J kayombo
Journal of Scientific Research and Reports
Killing of people with albinism and old people has been featuring in Tanzania mass media and worl... more Killing of people with albinism and old people has been featuring in Tanzania mass media and worldwide. The main cause of killing old people and people with albinism is witchcraft beliefs. Old women are reported to be killing grand children; whereas people with albinism were believed their part of the body when added with other potent traditional remedies brings fortune and prosperous. Witchcraft cannot be denied in indigenous African communities; however there might be other factors unexplored that lead to killing old people and people with albinism. The aim of this paper is to explore other factors that contribute to killing old people and people with albinism. Methodology: The study was carried in Lake Victoria zone, Tanzania using qualitative research methods. The main focus were to explore factors that lead to killing old people and people with albinism in addition to current belief of witchcraft. The collected information were analyzed using qualitatively techniques Results...
Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2008
A school-based study was carried out to assess the knowledge on malaria and its prevention among ... more A school-based study was carried out to assess the knowledge on malaria and its prevention among children in Kyela District, southwestern , Tanzania in August-September 2004. A total of 400 schoolchildren (age=10-20 years) from four schools were selected. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on knowledge on malaria transmission, methods of prevention, source of information and use of mosquito nets. More than 85% of the respondents were knowledgeable on malaria and preventive measures. Sources of information about malaria and its control were mainly from their teachers (47.4%), print materials (21.9%), family members (20.4%), television and radio (7.3%) and medical personnel (2.2.%). The perceived best control measures were untreated nets (32.1%), treated nets (21.4%), environmental management (25.7%) and burning mosquito coils and insect repellents (20.8%). Availability of mosquito nets was relatively high (70%), but only 38% of the pupils were using insecticide treated nets (ITNs). Low ITN use was due to its unavailability (57.5%), cost (35%) and foul smell and fear of side effects (7.5%). These findings suggest schoolchildren are aware about malaria and its prevention methods, but are not well-informed of the benefits of using ITNs. More education and advocacies on use of ITNs to parents and children is needed.
OrphansareanincreasingproblemindevelopingcountriesparticularlyyinAfrica; duetotheHIV/AIDSpandemic... more OrphansareanincreasingproblemindevelopingcountriesparticularlyyinAfrica; duetotheHIV/AIDSpandemic;andneedsscollectiveeffortinintervention processessbyyincludingallstakeholderssrightfromthegrassrootsslevel. Thisspaperattemptsstopresenttheroleoftraditionalhealerssinpsychosocial supportfororphanchildreninDar-es-SalaamCityywithspecialfocusonthose whoseparentsshavediedbecauseofHIV/AIDS.Sixxtraditionalhealersswhowere involvedintakingcareoforphanswerevisitedattheir"vilinge"(traditional clinics).Intotaltheyyhad72orphans,31beingboyssand41beinggirlsswithage rangefrom3yearssto19.Itwasslearnedthattraditionalhealers,besidess providingremediessforillnesses/diseasessoforphans,theyyalsoprovidedother basiccneeds.Further,theyyevenprovidedpsychosocialsupportallowingchildren tocopewithorphanhoodlifewithease.Traditionalhealerssarelivingwithin communitiessatthegrasssrootsslevel;andappearunnoticedhiddenforces,which areinvolvedintakingcareoforphans.Thissroleoftraditionalhealersintaking careoforph...
British Journal of Surgery, 2021
To support the global restart of elective surgery, data from an international prospective cohort ... more To support the global restart of elective surgery, data from an international prospective cohort study of 8492 patients (69 countries) was analysed using artificial intelligence (machine learning techniques) to develop a predictive score for mortality in surgical patients with SARS-CoV-2. We found that patient rather than operation factors were the best predictors and used these to create the COVIDsurg Mortality Score (https://covidsurgrisk.app). Our data demonstrates that it is safe to restart a wide range of surgical services for selected patients.
Collaboration between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners is now being accepted by m... more Collaboration between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners is now being accepted by many African countries south of the Sahara because of the increasing problem of HIV/AIDS. The key problem, however, is how to initiate collaboration between two health systems which differ in theory of disease causation and management. This paper presents findings on experience learned by initiation of collaboration between traditional healers and the Institute of Traditional Medicine in Arusha and Dares -Salaam Municipalities, Tanzania where 132 and 60 traditional healers respectively were interviewed. Of these 110 traditional healers claimed to be treating HIV/AIDS. The objective of the study was to initiate sustainable collaboration with traditional healers in managing HIV/AIDS. Consultative meetings with leaders of traditional healers' associations and government officials were held, followed by surveys at respective traditional healers' "vilinge" (traditional clinic...
Journal of Scientific Research and Reports, 2016
Journal of clinical & cellular immunology, Nov 6, 2013
Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2007
Traditional health practitioners (THPs) and their role in traditional medicine health care system... more Traditional health practitioners (THPs) and their role in traditional medicine health care system are worldwide acknowledged. Trend in the use of Traditional medicine (TRM) and Alternative or Complementary medicine (CAM) is increasing due to epidemics like HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and other diseases like cancer. Despite the wide use of TRM, genuine concern from the public and scientists/biomedical heath practitioners (BHP) on efficacy, safety and quality of TRM has been raised. While appreciating and promoting the use of TRM, the World Health Organization (WHO), and WHO/Afro, in response to the registered challenges has worked modalities to be adopted by Member States as a way to addressing these concerns. Gradually, through the WHO strategy, TRM policy and legal framework has been adopted in most of the Member States in order to accommodate sustainable collaboration between THPs and the scientist/BHP. Research protocols on how to evaluate traditional medicines for safety and efficacy for priority diseases in Africa have been formulated. Creation of close working relationship between practitioners of both health care systems is strongly recommended so as to revamp trust among each other and help to access information and knowledge from both sides through appropriate modalities. In Tanzania, gaps that exist between THPs and scientists/BHP in health research have been addressed through recognition of THPs among stakeholders in the country's health sector as stipulated in the National Health Policy, the Policy and Act of TRM and CAM. Parallel to that, several research institutions in TRM collaborating with THPs are operating. Various programmed research projects in TRM that has involved THPs and other stakeholders are ongoing, aiming at complementing the two health care systems. This paper discusses global, regional and national perspectives of TRM development and efforts that have so far been directed towards bridging the gap between THPs and scientist/BHP in contemporary health research in Tanzania.
Objective: Problem of drug abuse in Tanzania is serious and growing one. The thrust of this study... more Objective: Problem of drug abuse in Tanzania is serious and growing one. The thrust of this study was to identify core characteristics of drug abusers in Dar es Salaam, the biggest commercial city of the United Republic of Tanzania. Study design: Descriptive, cross sectional. Place and duration of study: The study was undertaken from July-September 2007 at three municipal councils of the city of Dar ves Salaam namely Kinondoni, Ilala and Temeke each with a population of about 3.5 million inhabitants. Subjects & Methods: It was a descriptive cross sectional study; interviewing 1198 adolescents male and female aged between 20-40 years recruited on random sampling method. Statistical Analysis and Results: Descriptive statistical analysis was used. In this study, the highest percentage of drug abusers was found within age group of 21-30 years for males while in the females the highest user age group was less than 20 years. Employment status was 33.6%. Labourers with primary education we...
Journal of Scientific Research and Reports, 2016
Цель. Оценить значение гидравлической диссекции артерий в лечении пациентов с хронической критиче... more Цель. Оценить значение гидравлической диссекции артерий в лечении пациентов с хронической критической ишемией нижних конечностей как возможного способа дезоблитерации. Материал и методы. Исследовано 20 участков артерий, выделенных из ампутированных нижних конечностей пациентов с хронической критической ишемией, на которых применялась гидравлическая диссекция стенки артерии, пораженной атеросклерозом, с целью дезоблитерации ее просвета. Для осуществления данной методики в стенку артерии субадвентициально вводилась изотоническая жидкость, тем самым отделялся обтурирующий субстрат от резидуальной стенки в просвет артерии. После отслоения бляшки ее в виде слепка извлекали из просвета артерии через продольное артериотомное отверстие. Результаты. Гидравлическую дезоблитерацию удалось выполнить на сегментах бедренной и подколенной артерий на протяжении 5±2,1 см, на артериях голени этот показатель составил 3±1,7 см. В 17 случаях бляшку удалось полностью отделить от стенки артерии и извлечь ее из просвета через одно артериотомное отверстие единым конгломератом. При этом бляшка удалялась из артериотомного отверстия размером в 1,5±0,8 см. Удаленный субстрат представлял собой атеросклеротическую бляшку в комплексе с частью медии, имел гладкую поверхность и истончался в естественном месте уменьшения стенотического поражения. В 3 случаях потребовалось дополнить выполнение предложенной методики механической эндартерэктомией в виду фрагментирования обтурирующего субстрата. При исследовании резидуальной стенки макроскопически обрывков интимы не было выявлено на протяжении всего дезоблитерированного участка. Заключение. Способ гидравлической эндартерэктомии позволяет произвести диссекцию артериальной стенки, тем самым отделить обтурирущий субстрат от стенки артерии и удалить его из просвета в достаточном объеме как по длине пораженного сегмента, так и по глубине поражения артериальной стенки. При этом способ не требует специального оборудования для введения жидкостного агента в субадветициальное пространство. Ключевые слова: эндартерэктомия, артериальная стенка, бляшки, критическая ишемия, гидравлическая диссекция, атеросклероз, дезоблитерация Objectives. To estimate the significance of hydraulic dissection of arteries in treatment of patients with chronic critical limb ischemia as a potential method of artery disobliteration. Methods. 20 amputated specimens of the arteries isolated from the lower extremity in patients with critical limb ischemia were studied. Hydraulic dissection of the arterial wall, affected by atherosclerosis was performed to disobliterate its lumen. To perform this technique the isotonic fluid was injected sub-adventitially to separate obstructing substrate from the residual wall in the arterial lumen. After atherosclerotic plague separation the last one was extracted via the longitudinal arteriotomy. Results. The hydraulic disobliteration was completed on the segments of femoral and popliteal arteries over 5±2,1 cm, this index made up 3±1,7 cm on the tibial arteries. In 17 cases the plague was completely separated from the wall and extracted via a arteriotomy orifice as a single conglomerate. At the same time the plague was extracted via the arteriotomy orifice sized 1,5±0,8 cm. Extracted substrate was an atherosclerotic plaque in conjunction with media portion, had a smooth surface and it became thinner in a site of natural reduction of the stenotic lesion. In 3 cases the mechanical endarterectomy was required to perform caused to the fragmentation of the obturating substrate to add the purposed method. Throughout the whole disobliterated site no intima fragments were not detected in macroscopical study of residual wall. Conclusion. The technique of hydraulic endarterectomy allows to perform dissection of the arterial wall, thereby to separate obstructive substrate from the arterial wall and to extract it in sufficient volume as along the affected segment, as throughout the depth of the arterial wall lesions from the lumen. This technique involves no special equipment to introduce liquid agent into the subadventitial space.
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 2014
Background: Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) interventions are widely promote... more Background: Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) interventions are widely promoted by governments and international agencies to reduce maternal and neonatal health risks in developing countries; however, their overall impact is uncertain, and little is known about how best to implement BPCR at a community level. Our primary aim was to evaluate the impact of BPCR interventions involving women, families and communities during the prenatal, postnatal and neonatal periods to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality in developing countries. We also examined intervention impact on a variety of intermediate outcomes important for maternal and child survival. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials of BPCR interventions in populations of pregnant women living in developing countries. To identify relevant studies, we searched the scientific literature in the Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane library, Reproductive health library, CINAHL and Popline databases. We also undertook manual searches of article bibliographies and web sites. Study inclusion was based on pre-specified criteria. We synthesised data by computing pooled relative risks (RR) using the Cochrane RevMan software. Results: Fourteen randomized studies (292 256 live births) met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses showed that exposure to BPCR interventions was associated with a statistically significant reduction of 18% in neonatal mortality risk (twelve studies, RR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.74, 0.91) and a non-significant reduction of 28% in maternal mortality risk (seven studies, RR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.46, 1.13). Results were highly heterogeneous (I 2 = 76%, p < 0.001 and I 2 = 72%, p = 0.002 for neonatal and maternal results, respectively). Subgroup analyses of studies in which at least 30% of targeted women participated in interventions showed a 24% significant reduction of neonatal mortality risk (nine studies, RR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.69, 0.85) and a 53% significant reduction in maternal mortality risk (four studies, RR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.87). Pooled results revealed that BPCR interventions were also associated with increased likelihood of use of care in the event of newborn illness, clean cutting of the umbilical cord and initiation of breastfeeding in the first hour of life. Conclusions: With adequate population coverage, BPCR interventions are effective in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in low-resources settings.
Health care utilization in many developing countries, Tanzania included, is mainly through the us... more Health care utilization in many developing countries, Tanzania included, is mainly through the use of traditional medicine (TRM) and its practitioners despite the presence of the conventional medicine. This article presents findings on the study that aimed to get an experience of health care utilization from both urban and rural areas of seven administrative regions in Tanzania. A total of 33 health facility managers were interviewed on health care provision and availability of supplies including drugs, in their respective areas. The findings revealed that the health facilities were overburden with higher population to serve than it was planned. Consequently essential drugs and other health supplies were available only in the first two weeks of the month. Conventional health practitioners considered traditional health practitioners to be more competent in mental health management, and overall, they were considered to handle more HIV/AIDS cases knowingly or unknowingly due to shear need of healthcare by this group. In general conventional health practitioners were positive towards traditional medicine utilization; and some of them admitted using traditional medicines. Traditional medicines like other medical health systems worldwide have side effects and some contentious ethical issues that need serious consideration and policy direction. Since many people will continue using traditional/alternative medicine, there is an urgent need to collaborate with traditional/alternative health practitioners through the institutionalization of basic training including hygiene in order to improved healthcare in the community and attain the Millennium Development Goals by 2015.
preparedness and complication readiness a qualitative study among community members in
Promotion of Community based Commercial Cultivation of Herbal Medicines and Packaging of Herbal N... more Promotion of Community based Commercial Cultivation of Herbal Medicines and Packaging of Herbal Nutritional Supplements. Mainen J. Moshi1, Zakaria H. Mbwambo1, Edmund J. Kayombo1, Modest C. Kapingu1, Lawrence Muze2, George T. Ndunguru3, and Aroldia Mulokozi4 1Institute of Traditional Medicine, Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences; 2Kwanza Collection Co. Ltd; 3Tanzania Food and Nutrition Centre; 4Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS)
Therapy, 2011
... at 3 months post-IGD, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) ... more ... at 3 months post-IGD, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) (Table 2 & Figure 4). This rose to 46 ... Tarimo DS, Minjas J, Bygberg IC: Perceptions of chloroquine efficacy and alternative treatments for uncomplicated malaria in children in a holoendemic area ...
Evaluation & the Health Professions, 2008
In Tanzania, since the time of its ancestors, cultural beliefs have existed which influence the t... more In Tanzania, since the time of its ancestors, cultural beliefs have existed which influence the treatment and management of diseases. This article focuses on malaria as a current major cause of morbidity and mortality in Tanzania. Patients and caretakers have tended to rely on traditional sociocultural practices as a means of treating the convulsions associated with severe malaria in children and often do not seek care at health facilities, therefore, delaying prompt management of the disease.
East African Journal of Public Health, 2008
Objectives: To assess acceptability of parents/guardians of adolescents towards the introduction ... more Objectives: To assess acceptability of parents/guardians of adolescents towards the introduction of sex and reproductive health education in the community and schools. Methods: A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to get 150 participants for this study. A structured questionnaire was used to interview the sampled participants and was supplemented with guided focus group discussion in Kinondoni Municipality of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Results: The analysis of the findings shows that there is a mixed feeling on the introduction of sex and reproductive health education in schools. Participants strongly supported that they should talk with their adolescents about sexuality and reproductive health (88.6%) but their culture prohibits them from doing so (76.7%). Also supported that condoms could protect against HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (82%), but strongly opposed the use of condoms to their adolescents because it would encourage promiscuity (78%). When the data were analysed by faith of the religions of the participants, 64% were in favour of introducing sex education and reproductive health, but were opposed to use of condoms to their adolescents. All participants were against vijiweni, which were recreation centres for the youths because they taught bad manners to their adolescents. The preferred source of information about sex education and reproductive health should be from the parents/guardians (86%), religious leaders (70%), media (62%), health workers (61%) and school teachers (59%). Conclusion: All in all the will of introduction of sex education and reproductive health in the community is there but the approach need to be worked out carefully by taking into account of the cultural and religious factors. Parents/guardians, religious leaders and traditional charismatic leaders should take part in designing the programme and even being involved in teaching it. The other option is to lump together sex education and reproductive health education in science especially in biology which is already in place in Tanzania education programmes.
… of ethnobiology and …, 2007
Collaboration between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners is now being accepted by m... more Collaboration between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners is now being accepted by many African countries south of the Sahara because of the increasing problem of HIV/AIDS. The key problem, however, is how to initiate collaboration between two health systems which differ in theory of disease causation and management. This paper presents findings on experience learned by initiation of collaboration between traditional healers and the Institute of Traditional Medicine in Arusha and Dares -Salaam Municipalities, Tanzania where 132 and 60 traditional healers respectively were interviewed. Of these 110 traditional healers claimed to be treating HIV/AIDS. The objective of the study was to initiate sustainable collaboration with traditional healers in managing HIV/AIDS. Consultative meetings with leaders of traditional healers' associations and government officials were held, followed by surveys at respective traditional healers' "vilinge" (traditional clinics). The findings were analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings showed that influential people and leaders of traditional healers' association appeared to be gatekeepers to access potential good healers in the two study areas. After consultative meetings these leaders showed to be willing to collaborate; and opened doors to other traditional healers, who too were willing to collaborate with the Institute of Traditional Medicine in managing HIV/ AIDS patients. Seventy five percent of traditional healers who claimed to be treating HIV/AIDS knew some HIV/AIDS symptoms; and some traditional healers attempted to manage these symptoms. Even though, they were willing to collaborate with the Institute of Traditional Medicine there were nevertheless some reservations based on questions surrounding sharing from collaboration. The reality of past experiences of mistreatment of traditional healers in the colonial period informed these reservations. General findings suggest that initiating collaboration is not as easy as it appears to be from the literature, if it is to be meaningful; and thus we are calling for appropriate strategies to access potential healers targeted for any study designed with sustainability in mind.
Journal of Scientific Research and Reports
Killing of people with albinism and old people has been featuring in Tanzania mass media and worl... more Killing of people with albinism and old people has been featuring in Tanzania mass media and worldwide. The main cause of killing old people and people with albinism is witchcraft beliefs. Old women are reported to be killing grand children; whereas people with albinism were believed their part of the body when added with other potent traditional remedies brings fortune and prosperous. Witchcraft cannot be denied in indigenous African communities; however there might be other factors unexplored that lead to killing old people and people with albinism. The aim of this paper is to explore other factors that contribute to killing old people and people with albinism. Methodology: The study was carried in Lake Victoria zone, Tanzania using qualitative research methods. The main focus were to explore factors that lead to killing old people and people with albinism in addition to current belief of witchcraft. The collected information were analyzed using qualitatively techniques Results...
Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2008
A school-based study was carried out to assess the knowledge on malaria and its prevention among ... more A school-based study was carried out to assess the knowledge on malaria and its prevention among children in Kyela District, southwestern , Tanzania in August-September 2004. A total of 400 schoolchildren (age=10-20 years) from four schools were selected. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on knowledge on malaria transmission, methods of prevention, source of information and use of mosquito nets. More than 85% of the respondents were knowledgeable on malaria and preventive measures. Sources of information about malaria and its control were mainly from their teachers (47.4%), print materials (21.9%), family members (20.4%), television and radio (7.3%) and medical personnel (2.2.%). The perceived best control measures were untreated nets (32.1%), treated nets (21.4%), environmental management (25.7%) and burning mosquito coils and insect repellents (20.8%). Availability of mosquito nets was relatively high (70%), but only 38% of the pupils were using insecticide treated nets (ITNs). Low ITN use was due to its unavailability (57.5%), cost (35%) and foul smell and fear of side effects (7.5%). These findings suggest schoolchildren are aware about malaria and its prevention methods, but are not well-informed of the benefits of using ITNs. More education and advocacies on use of ITNs to parents and children is needed.
OrphansareanincreasingproblemindevelopingcountriesparticularlyyinAfrica; duetotheHIV/AIDSpandemic... more OrphansareanincreasingproblemindevelopingcountriesparticularlyyinAfrica; duetotheHIV/AIDSpandemic;andneedsscollectiveeffortinintervention processessbyyincludingallstakeholderssrightfromthegrassrootsslevel. Thisspaperattemptsstopresenttheroleoftraditionalhealerssinpsychosocial supportfororphanchildreninDar-es-SalaamCityywithspecialfocusonthose whoseparentsshavediedbecauseofHIV/AIDS.Sixxtraditionalhealersswhowere involvedintakingcareoforphanswerevisitedattheir"vilinge"(traditional clinics).Intotaltheyyhad72orphans,31beingboyssand41beinggirlsswithage rangefrom3yearssto19.Itwasslearnedthattraditionalhealers,besidess providingremediessforillnesses/diseasessoforphans,theyyalsoprovidedother basiccneeds.Further,theyyevenprovidedpsychosocialsupportallowingchildren tocopewithorphanhoodlifewithease.Traditionalhealerssarelivingwithin communitiessatthegrasssrootsslevel;andappearunnoticedhiddenforces,which areinvolvedintakingcareoforphans.Thissroleoftraditionalhealersintaking careoforph...
British Journal of Surgery, 2021
To support the global restart of elective surgery, data from an international prospective cohort ... more To support the global restart of elective surgery, data from an international prospective cohort study of 8492 patients (69 countries) was analysed using artificial intelligence (machine learning techniques) to develop a predictive score for mortality in surgical patients with SARS-CoV-2. We found that patient rather than operation factors were the best predictors and used these to create the COVIDsurg Mortality Score (https://covidsurgrisk.app). Our data demonstrates that it is safe to restart a wide range of surgical services for selected patients.
Collaboration between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners is now being accepted by m... more Collaboration between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners is now being accepted by many African countries south of the Sahara because of the increasing problem of HIV/AIDS. The key problem, however, is how to initiate collaboration between two health systems which differ in theory of disease causation and management. This paper presents findings on experience learned by initiation of collaboration between traditional healers and the Institute of Traditional Medicine in Arusha and Dares -Salaam Municipalities, Tanzania where 132 and 60 traditional healers respectively were interviewed. Of these 110 traditional healers claimed to be treating HIV/AIDS. The objective of the study was to initiate sustainable collaboration with traditional healers in managing HIV/AIDS. Consultative meetings with leaders of traditional healers' associations and government officials were held, followed by surveys at respective traditional healers' "vilinge" (traditional clinic...
Journal of Scientific Research and Reports, 2016
Journal of clinical & cellular immunology, Nov 6, 2013
Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2007
Traditional health practitioners (THPs) and their role in traditional medicine health care system... more Traditional health practitioners (THPs) and their role in traditional medicine health care system are worldwide acknowledged. Trend in the use of Traditional medicine (TRM) and Alternative or Complementary medicine (CAM) is increasing due to epidemics like HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and other diseases like cancer. Despite the wide use of TRM, genuine concern from the public and scientists/biomedical heath practitioners (BHP) on efficacy, safety and quality of TRM has been raised. While appreciating and promoting the use of TRM, the World Health Organization (WHO), and WHO/Afro, in response to the registered challenges has worked modalities to be adopted by Member States as a way to addressing these concerns. Gradually, through the WHO strategy, TRM policy and legal framework has been adopted in most of the Member States in order to accommodate sustainable collaboration between THPs and the scientist/BHP. Research protocols on how to evaluate traditional medicines for safety and efficacy for priority diseases in Africa have been formulated. Creation of close working relationship between practitioners of both health care systems is strongly recommended so as to revamp trust among each other and help to access information and knowledge from both sides through appropriate modalities. In Tanzania, gaps that exist between THPs and scientists/BHP in health research have been addressed through recognition of THPs among stakeholders in the country's health sector as stipulated in the National Health Policy, the Policy and Act of TRM and CAM. Parallel to that, several research institutions in TRM collaborating with THPs are operating. Various programmed research projects in TRM that has involved THPs and other stakeholders are ongoing, aiming at complementing the two health care systems. This paper discusses global, regional and national perspectives of TRM development and efforts that have so far been directed towards bridging the gap between THPs and scientist/BHP in contemporary health research in Tanzania.
Objective: Problem of drug abuse in Tanzania is serious and growing one. The thrust of this study... more Objective: Problem of drug abuse in Tanzania is serious and growing one. The thrust of this study was to identify core characteristics of drug abusers in Dar es Salaam, the biggest commercial city of the United Republic of Tanzania. Study design: Descriptive, cross sectional. Place and duration of study: The study was undertaken from July-September 2007 at three municipal councils of the city of Dar ves Salaam namely Kinondoni, Ilala and Temeke each with a population of about 3.5 million inhabitants. Subjects & Methods: It was a descriptive cross sectional study; interviewing 1198 adolescents male and female aged between 20-40 years recruited on random sampling method. Statistical Analysis and Results: Descriptive statistical analysis was used. In this study, the highest percentage of drug abusers was found within age group of 21-30 years for males while in the females the highest user age group was less than 20 years. Employment status was 33.6%. Labourers with primary education we...
Journal of Scientific Research and Reports, 2016
Цель. Оценить значение гидравлической диссекции артерий в лечении пациентов с хронической критиче... more Цель. Оценить значение гидравлической диссекции артерий в лечении пациентов с хронической критической ишемией нижних конечностей как возможного способа дезоблитерации. Материал и методы. Исследовано 20 участков артерий, выделенных из ампутированных нижних конечностей пациентов с хронической критической ишемией, на которых применялась гидравлическая диссекция стенки артерии, пораженной атеросклерозом, с целью дезоблитерации ее просвета. Для осуществления данной методики в стенку артерии субадвентициально вводилась изотоническая жидкость, тем самым отделялся обтурирующий субстрат от резидуальной стенки в просвет артерии. После отслоения бляшки ее в виде слепка извлекали из просвета артерии через продольное артериотомное отверстие. Результаты. Гидравлическую дезоблитерацию удалось выполнить на сегментах бедренной и подколенной артерий на протяжении 5±2,1 см, на артериях голени этот показатель составил 3±1,7 см. В 17 случаях бляшку удалось полностью отделить от стенки артерии и извлечь ее из просвета через одно артериотомное отверстие единым конгломератом. При этом бляшка удалялась из артериотомного отверстия размером в 1,5±0,8 см. Удаленный субстрат представлял собой атеросклеротическую бляшку в комплексе с частью медии, имел гладкую поверхность и истончался в естественном месте уменьшения стенотического поражения. В 3 случаях потребовалось дополнить выполнение предложенной методики механической эндартерэктомией в виду фрагментирования обтурирующего субстрата. При исследовании резидуальной стенки макроскопически обрывков интимы не было выявлено на протяжении всего дезоблитерированного участка. Заключение. Способ гидравлической эндартерэктомии позволяет произвести диссекцию артериальной стенки, тем самым отделить обтурирущий субстрат от стенки артерии и удалить его из просвета в достаточном объеме как по длине пораженного сегмента, так и по глубине поражения артериальной стенки. При этом способ не требует специального оборудования для введения жидкостного агента в субадветициальное пространство. Ключевые слова: эндартерэктомия, артериальная стенка, бляшки, критическая ишемия, гидравлическая диссекция, атеросклероз, дезоблитерация Objectives. To estimate the significance of hydraulic dissection of arteries in treatment of patients with chronic critical limb ischemia as a potential method of artery disobliteration. Methods. 20 amputated specimens of the arteries isolated from the lower extremity in patients with critical limb ischemia were studied. Hydraulic dissection of the arterial wall, affected by atherosclerosis was performed to disobliterate its lumen. To perform this technique the isotonic fluid was injected sub-adventitially to separate obstructing substrate from the residual wall in the arterial lumen. After atherosclerotic plague separation the last one was extracted via the longitudinal arteriotomy. Results. The hydraulic disobliteration was completed on the segments of femoral and popliteal arteries over 5±2,1 cm, this index made up 3±1,7 cm on the tibial arteries. In 17 cases the plague was completely separated from the wall and extracted via a arteriotomy orifice as a single conglomerate. At the same time the plague was extracted via the arteriotomy orifice sized 1,5±0,8 cm. Extracted substrate was an atherosclerotic plaque in conjunction with media portion, had a smooth surface and it became thinner in a site of natural reduction of the stenotic lesion. In 3 cases the mechanical endarterectomy was required to perform caused to the fragmentation of the obturating substrate to add the purposed method. Throughout the whole disobliterated site no intima fragments were not detected in macroscopical study of residual wall. Conclusion. The technique of hydraulic endarterectomy allows to perform dissection of the arterial wall, thereby to separate obstructive substrate from the arterial wall and to extract it in sufficient volume as along the affected segment, as throughout the depth of the arterial wall lesions from the lumen. This technique involves no special equipment to introduce liquid agent into the subadventitial space.
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 2014
Background: Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) interventions are widely promote... more Background: Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) interventions are widely promoted by governments and international agencies to reduce maternal and neonatal health risks in developing countries; however, their overall impact is uncertain, and little is known about how best to implement BPCR at a community level. Our primary aim was to evaluate the impact of BPCR interventions involving women, families and communities during the prenatal, postnatal and neonatal periods to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality in developing countries. We also examined intervention impact on a variety of intermediate outcomes important for maternal and child survival. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials of BPCR interventions in populations of pregnant women living in developing countries. To identify relevant studies, we searched the scientific literature in the Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane library, Reproductive health library, CINAHL and Popline databases. We also undertook manual searches of article bibliographies and web sites. Study inclusion was based on pre-specified criteria. We synthesised data by computing pooled relative risks (RR) using the Cochrane RevMan software. Results: Fourteen randomized studies (292 256 live births) met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses showed that exposure to BPCR interventions was associated with a statistically significant reduction of 18% in neonatal mortality risk (twelve studies, RR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.74, 0.91) and a non-significant reduction of 28% in maternal mortality risk (seven studies, RR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.46, 1.13). Results were highly heterogeneous (I 2 = 76%, p < 0.001 and I 2 = 72%, p = 0.002 for neonatal and maternal results, respectively). Subgroup analyses of studies in which at least 30% of targeted women participated in interventions showed a 24% significant reduction of neonatal mortality risk (nine studies, RR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.69, 0.85) and a 53% significant reduction in maternal mortality risk (four studies, RR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.87). Pooled results revealed that BPCR interventions were also associated with increased likelihood of use of care in the event of newborn illness, clean cutting of the umbilical cord and initiation of breastfeeding in the first hour of life. Conclusions: With adequate population coverage, BPCR interventions are effective in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in low-resources settings.
Health care utilization in many developing countries, Tanzania included, is mainly through the us... more Health care utilization in many developing countries, Tanzania included, is mainly through the use of traditional medicine (TRM) and its practitioners despite the presence of the conventional medicine. This article presents findings on the study that aimed to get an experience of health care utilization from both urban and rural areas of seven administrative regions in Tanzania. A total of 33 health facility managers were interviewed on health care provision and availability of supplies including drugs, in their respective areas. The findings revealed that the health facilities were overburden with higher population to serve than it was planned. Consequently essential drugs and other health supplies were available only in the first two weeks of the month. Conventional health practitioners considered traditional health practitioners to be more competent in mental health management, and overall, they were considered to handle more HIV/AIDS cases knowingly or unknowingly due to shear need of healthcare by this group. In general conventional health practitioners were positive towards traditional medicine utilization; and some of them admitted using traditional medicines. Traditional medicines like other medical health systems worldwide have side effects and some contentious ethical issues that need serious consideration and policy direction. Since many people will continue using traditional/alternative medicine, there is an urgent need to collaborate with traditional/alternative health practitioners through the institutionalization of basic training including hygiene in order to improved healthcare in the community and attain the Millennium Development Goals by 2015.
preparedness and complication readiness a qualitative study among community members in
Promotion of Community based Commercial Cultivation of Herbal Medicines and Packaging of Herbal N... more Promotion of Community based Commercial Cultivation of Herbal Medicines and Packaging of Herbal Nutritional Supplements. Mainen J. Moshi1, Zakaria H. Mbwambo1, Edmund J. Kayombo1, Modest C. Kapingu1, Lawrence Muze2, George T. Ndunguru3, and Aroldia Mulokozi4 1Institute of Traditional Medicine, Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences; 2Kwanza Collection Co. Ltd; 3Tanzania Food and Nutrition Centre; 4Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS)
Therapy, 2011
... at 3 months post-IGD, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) ... more ... at 3 months post-IGD, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) (Table 2 & Figure 4). This rose to 46 ... Tarimo DS, Minjas J, Bygberg IC: Perceptions of chloroquine efficacy and alternative treatments for uncomplicated malaria in children in a holoendemic area ...
Evaluation & the Health Professions, 2008
In Tanzania, since the time of its ancestors, cultural beliefs have existed which influence the t... more In Tanzania, since the time of its ancestors, cultural beliefs have existed which influence the treatment and management of diseases. This article focuses on malaria as a current major cause of morbidity and mortality in Tanzania. Patients and caretakers have tended to rely on traditional sociocultural practices as a means of treating the convulsions associated with severe malaria in children and often do not seek care at health facilities, therefore, delaying prompt management of the disease.
East African Journal of Public Health, 2008
Objectives: To assess acceptability of parents/guardians of adolescents towards the introduction ... more Objectives: To assess acceptability of parents/guardians of adolescents towards the introduction of sex and reproductive health education in the community and schools. Methods: A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to get 150 participants for this study. A structured questionnaire was used to interview the sampled participants and was supplemented with guided focus group discussion in Kinondoni Municipality of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Results: The analysis of the findings shows that there is a mixed feeling on the introduction of sex and reproductive health education in schools. Participants strongly supported that they should talk with their adolescents about sexuality and reproductive health (88.6%) but their culture prohibits them from doing so (76.7%). Also supported that condoms could protect against HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (82%), but strongly opposed the use of condoms to their adolescents because it would encourage promiscuity (78%). When the data were analysed by faith of the religions of the participants, 64% were in favour of introducing sex education and reproductive health, but were opposed to use of condoms to their adolescents. All participants were against vijiweni, which were recreation centres for the youths because they taught bad manners to their adolescents. The preferred source of information about sex education and reproductive health should be from the parents/guardians (86%), religious leaders (70%), media (62%), health workers (61%) and school teachers (59%). Conclusion: All in all the will of introduction of sex education and reproductive health in the community is there but the approach need to be worked out carefully by taking into account of the cultural and religious factors. Parents/guardians, religious leaders and traditional charismatic leaders should take part in designing the programme and even being involved in teaching it. The other option is to lump together sex education and reproductive health education in science especially in biology which is already in place in Tanzania education programmes.
… of ethnobiology and …, 2007
Collaboration between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners is now being accepted by m... more Collaboration between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners is now being accepted by many African countries south of the Sahara because of the increasing problem of HIV/AIDS. The key problem, however, is how to initiate collaboration between two health systems which differ in theory of disease causation and management. This paper presents findings on experience learned by initiation of collaboration between traditional healers and the Institute of Traditional Medicine in Arusha and Dares -Salaam Municipalities, Tanzania where 132 and 60 traditional healers respectively were interviewed. Of these 110 traditional healers claimed to be treating HIV/AIDS. The objective of the study was to initiate sustainable collaboration with traditional healers in managing HIV/AIDS. Consultative meetings with leaders of traditional healers' associations and government officials were held, followed by surveys at respective traditional healers' "vilinge" (traditional clinics). The findings were analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings showed that influential people and leaders of traditional healers' association appeared to be gatekeepers to access potential good healers in the two study areas. After consultative meetings these leaders showed to be willing to collaborate; and opened doors to other traditional healers, who too were willing to collaborate with the Institute of Traditional Medicine in managing HIV/ AIDS patients. Seventy five percent of traditional healers who claimed to be treating HIV/AIDS knew some HIV/AIDS symptoms; and some traditional healers attempted to manage these symptoms. Even though, they were willing to collaborate with the Institute of Traditional Medicine there were nevertheless some reservations based on questions surrounding sharing from collaboration. The reality of past experiences of mistreatment of traditional healers in the colonial period informed these reservations. General findings suggest that initiating collaboration is not as easy as it appears to be from the literature, if it is to be meaningful; and thus we are calling for appropriate strategies to access potential healers targeted for any study designed with sustainability in mind.