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Integrated morbidity mapping of lymphatic filariasis and podoconiosis cases in 20 co-endemic districts of Ethiopia

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posted on 2023-06-09, 13:15 authored by Biruk Kebede, Sarah Martindale, Belete Mengistu, Biruck Kebede, Asrat Mengiste, Fikre H/Kiros, Abraham Tamiru, Gail DaveyGail Davey, Louise A Kelly-Hope, Charles D Mackenzie
Background: Lymphatic filariasis (LF) and podoconiosis are neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that pose a significant physical, social and economic burden to endemic communities. Patients affected by the clinical conditions of LF (lymphoedema and hydrocoele) and podoconiosis (lymphoedema) need access to morbidity management and disability prevention (MMDP) services. Clear estimates of the number and location of these patients are essential to the efficient and equitable implementation of MMDP services for both diseases. Methodology/Principle findings: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Ethiopia using the Health Extension Worker (HEW) network to identify all cases of lymphoedema and hydrocoele in 20 woredas (districts) co-endemic for LF and podoconiosis. A total of 612 trained HEWs and 40 supervisors from 20 districts identified 26,123 cases of clinical morbidity. Of these, 24,908 (95.3%) reported cases had leg lymphoedema only, 751 (2.9%) had hydrocoele, 387 (1.5%) had both leg lymphoedema and hydrocoele, and 77 (0.3%) cases had breast lymphoedema. Of those reporting leg lymphoedema, 89.3% reported bilateral lymphoedema. Older age groups were more likely to have a severe stage of disease, have bilateral lymphoedema and to have experienced an acute attack in the last six months. Conclusions/Significance: This study represents the first community-wide, integrated clinical case mapping of both LF and podoconiosis in Ethiopia. It highlights the high number of cases, particularly of leg lymphoedema that could be attributed to either of these diseases. This key clinical information will assist and guide the allocation of resources to where they are needed most.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Published version

Journal

PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases

ISSN

1935-2727

Publisher

Public Library of Science

Department affiliated with

  • Global Health and Infection Publications

Research groups affiliated with

  • Wellcome Trust Brighton and Sussex Centre for Global Health Research Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2018-05-15

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2018-06-26

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2018-05-09

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