Revue Africaine des Sciences Sociales et de la Sante Publique

Assessing the medical costs of COVID-19 inpatients in 2021 at Bogodogo University Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

2026-05-24T22:05:02+00:00

COVID-19 est une infection émergente de type zoonose virale causée par le coronavirus SARS-CoV2. Sur le plan économique, elle a imposé d’importants frais médicaux aux patients liés à l’ampleur et aux complications y afférentes. Peu de données sont disponibles dans les pays à revenus faibles et africains. Notre étude a pour objectif d’évaluer le coût médical direct supporté par les patients hospitalisés atteints de COVID-19 au Burkina Faso. Nous avons réalisé une étude transversale analytique au centre d’isolement COVID-19 du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bogodogo. Les données démographiques et cliniques des patients de l’année 2021 ont été recueillies à partir des dossiers médicaux physiques ; celles financières ont été obtenues à partir de la facturation des coûts de l’hôpital. Nous avons utilisé la méthode d'établissement des coûts ascendante pour calculer le coût médical direct. Une régression linéaire a permis d’identifier les facteurs du coût médical direct. Nos résultats révèlent que le coût médical moyen est de 187 631 FCFA, avec un écart-type de 93 519. Le coût médical élevé est associé à l'âge, la comorbidité, la profession artisane et la durée d’hospitalisation. Les coûts des médicaments et des examens biologiques constituent les dépenses majeures avec 68 % et 15 % du coût médical direct total. Le coût médical direct supporté par les patients atteints de COVID-19 est très élevé par rapport au salaire minimum. Ce coût est associé à un âge avancé, aux comorbidités, à la profession et à une augmentation de la durée d’hospitalisation.

Effect of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine on nasopharyngeal carriage of vaccine serotypes in West Africa: a narrative review

2026-05-27T19:54:12+00:00

Assessing the impact of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) on nasopharyngeal carriage of pneumococcal vaccine types (VT) in West Africa allows us to monitor carriage dynamics. We conducted a narrative review of studies in West Africa to summarize the impact of PCV13 on VT carriage. Impact measures were estimated using indicators such as prevalence ratio, odds ratio and relative risk. From an initial pool of 72 articles, four studies met the criteria. The included studies spanned from 2000 to 2025. Since the introduction of PCV13 in 2011, there has been a consistent and substantial reduction in carriage of vaccine serotypes among children, the target population for vaccination, and among adults due to the indirect effect of conjugate vaccines. Estimates of reductions in VT carriage ranged from 30% to 74%. The introduction of PCV13 is associated with a significant and sustained decrease in nasopharyngeal carriage of vaccine pneumococcal serotypes in West Africa, heralding a reduction in VT-related morbidity and mortality.

Systematic review of healthcare pathways for people with reduced mobility in Benin and Sub-Saharan Africa

2026-05-27T20:22:05+00:00

In sub-Saharan Africa, the healthcare context is quite unique. To assess the healthcare pathways of people with reduced mobility, analyze their evolution, and understand the difficulties they face in accessing healthcare services, we believe it is essential to begin with a review of these pathways. The study is a scoping review followed by a causal analysis. The articles were processed using Zotero 5.0.96.3. The search equations were established using the Population-Intervention-Comparison-Outcomes (PIE) method. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRITEM) method was used to ensure transparency and comprehensiveness of the review. The analysis of the results was qualitative. Twenty-eight articles were selected. In the population, healthcare pathways do not begin in hospitals but include traditional, religious, and community-based approaches. Traditional considerations dominate the pathways encountered, and recourse to modern healthcare is a last resort. The increasing complexity of healthcare pathways is a real and lived experience. Communication, education, and information for health must be a priority for public health policies. Various authors have noted some gaps in the public's understanding of their own illnesses. In comparison, non-pharmacological approaches and non-conventional healthcare practices exist elsewhere. Measures to facilitate access to healthcare information and bring healthcare services closer to the population are essential. This study explores the current situation regarding therapeutic choices. The causal analysis of the situation reveals much about the findings.

Parental communication on sexual and reproductive health with their adolescents and associated factors in the city of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

2026-05-27T20:34:05+00:00

Communication between parents and their adolescents regarding sexual and reproductive health is crucial for maintaining adolescent well-being. This study aimed to evaluate parental communication with their adolescents regarding sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and associated factors in Ouagadougou. A cross-sectional study was conducted with parents of adolescents aged 10 to 19 years in Ouagadougou, using a cluster sampling. The dependent variable was parent–adolescent communication about SRH. Associated factors were determined using modified Poisson regression. Of the 453 parents included, 50.6% reported communicating with their adolescents about SRH, with 63.8% initiating the discussions. The two main reasons for not communicating with adolescents were embarrassment (39.1%) and cultural taboos (35.4%). Multivariate analysis revealed that parent-adolescent communication about SRH occurs more frequently among mothers (adjusted prevalence ratio (APR): 1.48 (1.19–1.86)), older parents (APR: 1.53 (1.19–1.97)), and parents with a better knowledge of SRH (APR: 2.63 (1.27–5.44)). Although sex education is important for adolescents, half of parents do not communicate with their children about SRH topics. It is essential to develop strategies that promote effective communication between parents and their adolescents to enhance adolescent health.

Maternal mortality: epidemiology of third delay in pregnant women referred to two hospitals in Cotonou (Benin) between 2017 and 2021

2026-05-28T23:25:53+00:00

Despite positive progress, Benin still has unsatisfactory indicators on maternal health. This work aimed to identify the determinants associated with the third delay in two reference hospitals. A retrospective descriptive and analytical study, conducted in 2024 at the University Clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of CNHU HKM and at the Lagune Mother and Child University Hospital, included allmaternal deaths of referred patients occurring between 2017 and 2021. Intra-hospital maternal mortality rate was 2039 per 100,000 live births. The mean age was 29.6 years ± 6.7. Alteration of the general condition on admission (OR = 0.46 [0.31-0.68]), alteration of consciousness (OR = 0.51 [0.55-0.75]), and hemorrhagic causes (OR = 0.45 [0.30-0.67]) were associated with faster treatment. Conversely, infectious causes (OR = 2.42 [1.03-6.34]) were significantly associated with a higher probability of occurrence of the 3rd delay. The severity factors presented at admission by referred women determine the speed of care. However, our results demonstrate that infectious causes alsopresent a risk that must be taken into account

Perception of socio-professional categories on the sexuality and sexual practices of young people and adolescents through the interventions of the Centres des Jeunes Amour & Vie (CJAV) of the department of Zou, Benin

2026-05-28T23:03:17+00:00

Social norms through taboos in the Abomey region are partly hindering the implementation of interventions related to adolescent and young people's sexual health. In other areas, this context limits access to sex education and information and neglects the needs of adolescents. The creation of Young Love & Life Centres (CJAV) in the municipality of Zou aims to provide access to sex education information. However, discussions have revealed deep tensions regarding perceptions and acceptance of the CJAV. Our study aims to understand the perceptions of different socio-professional categories regarding CJAV interventions. In November 2024, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 45 respondents purposively selected fromthe municipalities where the interventions took place. An interview guide was used to collect qualitative data, which was analysed using Dedoose software. The results highlight three types of perceptions: positive, negative and mixed. It is therefore necessary to develop an educational program that takes into account the needs of young people and other social groups. Such a program could improve the acceptability, efficacy and even efficiency of interventions in similar contexts.

Factors in the spread of Buruli ulcer and urinary bilharziasis and coping strategies of communities living along the Subiakro and Kossou hydro-agricultural schemes

2026-05-28T23:35:43+00:00

Why do Buruli ulcer and urinary bilharziasis persist in the Subiakro and Kossou localities, and how are people coping? To answer this question, a study was carried out in the Yamoussoukro health district, an endemic area for Buruli ulcer and urinary bilharziasis, with a view to analysing the factors involved in the spread of these diseases and the communities' coping strategies. The study was qualitative in nature, involving observations, semi-directive interviews and focus group discussions using the Accelerated Participatory Research Method. A total of sixteen interviews were conducted with men, women, young people, community leaders, nurses and doctors. Socio-economic and cultural activities, plant wounds/stings and occult practices were identified as factors in the spread of Buruli ulcer and bilharzia. Traditional and modern care are the communities' care and coping strategies. At the same time, the community has no means of combating the disease, and prevention policies are non-existent. Hence the need for policies adapted to the realities of the communities in order to drastically reduce the incidence of these diseases in these areas

Factors associated at COVID-19 vaccination among health workers in Mali's university hospitals in 2023

2026-06-08T15:47:21+00:00

COVID-19, an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, is vaccine-preventable. Vaccination coverage is low despite the availability of several vaccine types. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination among health workers in university hospitals (CHU). We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study from 1 January to 30 June 2023. Weinterviewed health workers at the CHU National Centre for odontostomatology (CNOS), Kati, Mali Hospital, African Institute of Tropical Ophthalmology (IOTA), Mother-Child Luxembourg, Point G, and Gabriel Touré using a questionnaire. We performed multivariate analysis using Epi-info 7 and SPSS 2022. In total, 277 people were interviewed. The 18-29 age group was approximately 41%. The median age years was 32 (IIQ [Q1=1; Q3=3]). In multivariate analysis, age ≥ 30 years (ORa = 1.79 (95% CI [1.03-3.13]) ; p = 0.040), good appreciation of the vaccine (ORa = 3.15 (95% CI [1.02-9.69]) ; p = 0.045), belief (ORa = 4.13 (95% CI [1.66-10.03]); p = 0.002), and vaccinator qualification (ORa = 3.54 (95% CI [1.95-6.45]); p = 0.0001) were associated with vaccination against COVID-19. Age, appreciation of vaccination, belief in vaccination, and vaccinator qualification were associated with COVID-19 vaccination. These results would explain the low COVID-19 vaccination coverage rate. We recommend strengthening communication with health workers aged 30 years or younger and ensuring the availability of qualified vaccinators.

Technical and operational performance of solar refrigerators in cold chain systems in Africa: a systematic review

2026-06-08T16:03:05+00:00

Cold chain systems are essential for preserving medical products, particularly vaccines, across Africa. However, chronic dysfunctions severely compromise their effectiveness, with nearly 50% of vaccines losing potency due to cold chain failures, and 30–40% of healthcare facilities lacking functional equipment. This systematic review aims to evaluate cold chain performance, identify gaps, and propose practical solutions. Following PRISMA guidelines, 36 articles covering 18 African countries and 7,238 healthcare facilities (65% in rural areas) were analyzed. Data sources included national assessments (EVM), technical audits, and mixed or qualitative studies. Key indicators assessed were equipment functionality, temperature compliance, energy sources, and maintenance. Data synthesis was performed using R software with a random-effects model. Results showed that only 61.2% of cold chain equipment was functional, with significant disparities: 73% in urban areas versus 54% in rural zones. Thermal compliance was especially low in rural areas (36%), and prolonged breakdowns (up to 57 days) were common due to lack of maintenance. Solar refrigerators performed better (82% thermal stability), but adoption remains limited. These shortcomings lead to vaccine losses (up to 17%) and preventable outbreaks. Targeted investments are urgently needed to improve equipment availability, staff training, and maintenance, with a focus on renewable energy and smart technologies. Public policies must incorporate dedicated budgets and harmonized standards to ensure long-term sustainability of cold chain systems

Influence of the Social Gradient on Fertility in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review

2026-06-09T16:51:12+00:00

Fertility in sub-Saharan Africa remains a major challenge, shaped by deep-rooted social disparities. This synthesis explores the impact of the social gradient, the inverse relationship between socioeconomic status and health, on reproductive behaviour in the region. The analysis is based on 226 documents selected from 831 publications released between 2000 and 2025. The results reveal a complex social gradient closely linked to fertility dynamics. Women’s education has emerged as the most frequently reported determinant, mentioned in nearly 77% of the studies, confirming its central role in birth reduction. Improved living standards are associated with a decrease in the number of children, consistent with classic demographic transition models. Spatial disparities remain significant, particularly the gap between urban and rural areas, which reaches up to 2.7 children per total fertility rate. Other factors contribute to these dynamics, notably still-limited access to contraception (29% of women in 2019) and the gradual increase in the age of marriage. Altogether, these findings show that the demographic transition in sub-Saharan Africa is far from uniform and remains closely tied to social, economic, and territorial conditions. Given these observations, it is essential to design targeted policies that promote education, access to reproductive healthcare, and information, while involving religious and cultural figures in awareness campaigns to reduce these disparities.

Factors influencing the delegation of health tasks to community actors in two health districts facing security challenges, Burkina Faso, 2024

2026-06-09T17:47:20+00:00

In the context of a security crisis, marked by a reduction in the provision of care in health facilities, delegating tasks to community actors appears to be an alternative. This study aimedto explore the factors influencing the continuity of basic care provided by community-based health workers and village birth attendants in the context of insecurity. This cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted in the health districts of Ouargaye and Bittou between December 2023 and January 2024. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with sixty-six people. The interviews were manually transcribed using Microsoft Word. Data analysis was performed using NVivo 14 software. The results revealed that continuity of care is facilitated by organizational factors (accessibility and availability of resources), community factors (support and satisfaction), intrapersonal factors (motivation), and policy factors (reduction in morbidity and mortality). However, the main obstacles identified include insufficient resources, transportation difficulties, insecurity, low financial motivation, and community reluctance. Participants suggested concrete actions, such as providing transportation, improving motivation, enhancing supervision, and integrating task delegation into institutional processes to address these challenges. These results highlight the need for strong systemic and community support to sustain healthcare in fragile regions

Social and Cultural perceptions of Antenatal Care among Pregnant Women and Their Husbands in Maniema Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo

2026-06-09T18:16:41+00:00

Antenatal care is a fundamental component of reproductive health and a key lever for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. This study, conducted in Maniema Province, aims to analyse social and cultural perceptions of antenatal care to identify factors that facilitate or hinder its utilisation and to propose strategies tailored to the local context. A qualitative approach was adopted, based on semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with pregnant women and their husbands, enabling triangulation of perspectives. The findings reveal an ambivalent perception of antenatal care. On the one hand, it is recognized as beneficial for pregnancy monitoring, complication prevention, and the protection of both mother and child. On the other hand, certain traditional beliefs consider antenatal care unnecessary, viewing pregnancy as a natural phenomenon that can be managed through traditional care or prayer. Husbands, who are often the primary decision-makers, play a central role in access to care: their support facilitates attendance, whereas modesty, fear of HIV testing, or the delegation of responsibility to women limit their involvement. The influence of in-laws, religious leaders, and peers is also significant. Strengthening peer education, promoting male involvement, implementing community-based campaigns, and engaging religious leaders emerge as key strategies for improving the utilization of antenatal care

Quality of care in areas with security challenges: involvement and empowerment of internally displaced persons in Burkina Faso.

2026-06-10T17:29:32+00:00

In response to the security challenges facing Burkina Faso, a health system resilience strategy has been put in place to strengthen the coordination of health actions and improve the provision of care to displaced persons. This study aimed to analyse the determinants of healthcare provision to internally displaced persons in areas facing security challenges. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from 6 November to 10 December 2024 at temporary receptionsites for internally displaced persons in Ouahigouya. A mixed approach to data collection and analysis was used. It included internally displaced persons and health workers. The quantitative sample consisted of 396 internally displaced persons. Quantitative data were processed using R 4.4.1 software. The minimum package of activities offered to internally displaced persons was incomplete. Care was discontinuous at three-quarters of the reception sites. The level of internally displaced persons' involvement in care was low. There was no framework for exchanges between beneficiaries and care providers. Factors limiting beneficiaries' empowerment in healthcare included low levels of education, limited access to health information and a lack of professional activities. The beneficiary- centred approach was insufficiently implemented for internally displaced persons in the security-challenged areas studied. To achieve universal health coverage, the quality of care should also extend to these vulnerable people

Quality of postoperative care, patient satisfaction, and experience in the otolaryngology department of the Gabriel Touré University Hospital Centre in Bamako

2026-06-10T17:39:14+00:00

Patient satisfaction and experience in the perioperative setting are positive indicators of quality of care. They influence patient cooperation, which is essential for safe treatment. Therefore, we aimed to address this in this study, with the objective of determining the level of patient satisfaction and experience in the postoperative period within the otolaryngology department of the Gabriel Touré University Hospital in Bamako. Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire adapted to our study context, based on the French National Authority for Health's (HAS) model called the "e-Satis system." The overall patient satisfaction and experience score was 74.62%, and the number of positive results was 70.73%. Patient satisfaction is an undeniable indicator of the quality of care from the patient's perspective, but it remains a subjective factor and can be influenced by several factors such as the quality of technical and interpersonal care, the length of stay, and sociodemographic characteristics that must be taken into account.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of seasonal malaria chemoprophylaxis in children under 5 years of age in the Collines department of Benin in 2025

2026-06-12T10:57:53+00:00

Malaria remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 40% of consultations and the leading cause of mortality among children under 5 years in Benin. This study aimed to analyze the cost-effectiveness of Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) among children under 5 years in the Collines department of Benin in 2025. This was a cost-effectiveness analysis conducted from March to April 2025, including 454 households selected through multi-stage probability sampling. Data were analyzed using Stata 18.4 and Python 3.10. Univariate and multivariate sensitivity analyses were performed with Monte Carlo simulations over 10,000 iterations. SMC achieved a 19.94% reduction in malaria cases and 32.50% reduction in deaths between 2023 and 2024. The total cost was 246,505,194.5 FCFA. The cost per DALY averted was 123,376 FCFA, 6.5 times below the WHO "very cost-effective" threshold. The probability of cost-effectiveness was 100% across all 10,000 simulations. SMC is a highly cost-effective intervention. Transitioning to a DOT3 strategy is recommended to maximize health and economic impact.

Social marketing and prosocial behavior of the voluntary blood donor: an applied study in the Cameroonian context

2026-06-12T11:09:06+00:00

Blood transfusion is a critical component of healthcare systems, as it plays a central role in saving lives. However, both globally and in Cameroon, the supply of blood products remains insufficient due to the low rate of voluntary blood donation. In this context, social marketing has emerged as an effective strategic tool for influencing individual behavior and encouraging civic engagement in blood donation. The aim of this study is to examine the influence of social marketing initiatives on the behavior of blood donors and potential donors in Cameroon. A quantitative survey was conducted with a sample of 336 Cameroonian citizens. The analysis relied on a rigorous methodological approach, including exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. Findings indicate that increased use of media channels (particularly television and social networks) by the Ministry of Public Health significantly enhances citizens’ intention and willingness to donate blood. Furthermore, the active promotion of associations involved in blood donation mobilization strengthens potential donors’ civic behavior by reinforcing the perception of blood donation as a socially valuable and responsible act.

Therapeutic pathways of elderly diabetic patients in Korhogo: Between reasoned action, therapeutic capital, and medical pluralism

2026-06-12T11:23:09+00:00

This study examines the therapeutic pathways of elderly diabetic patients in Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire, using a methods approach that combines quantitative surveys (60 structured questionnaires) and qualitative data (30 semi-structured interviews). The findings reveal complex trajectories shaped by social representations of illness, economic constraints, symbolic affiliations, and the coexistence of biomedical and traditional healing practices. Drawing on the theory of reasoned action and the concept of therapeutic capital, the analysis shows that care decisions are not solely based on accessibility or cost, but stem from a socially situated rationality. Patients alternate between modern medicine and traditional care depending on chronicity, cultural legitimacy, and the relational quality of care. While biomedicine is often associated with technical rigor, endogenous practices are perceived as more accessible, culturally legitimate, and imbued with human proximity. This therapeutic hybridity reflects adaptive strategies in response to aging and structural inequalities. The study advocates for a culturally sensitive integration of both systems, based on therapeutic education, practitioner collaboration, and public policies that acknowledge traditional knowledge. It calls for inclusive, sustainable health models centered on the social realities of aging.

Systematic review of the performance of pharmaceutical supply chain management

2026-06-12T11:32:35+00:00

The performance of the pharmaceutical supply chain management system relies on key indicators such as stock-out rates, inventory accuracy, on-time delivery, and final patient satisfaction. The SCOR (Supply Chain Operations Reference) model has emerged as a major tool for identifying critical performance drivers, particularly in resource-limited countries such as Benin. This is a documentary research study conducted using major scientific and institutional databases. The articles were processed using Zotero 5.0.96.3. The search equations were developed using the Population-Intervention-Comparison-Outcomes (PICO) method. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method was used to ensure transparency and comprehensiveness of the review. The analysis of the results was qualitative. The results showed that: -11 articles were selected; -The SCOR model provides a robust operational framework for identifying critical processes such as planning, procurement, and distribution of essential medicines; - The average on-time delivery rate is 62%, which is below the recommended threshold of 95%; - The order processing cycle ranges from 17 to 32 days, compared to the standard benchmark of 10 days. International and African studies demonstrate that adopting the SCOR model and closely monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) enhance the resilience, performance, and alignment of the pharmaceutical supply chain with patient needs.

Community distributors as key players in seasonal malaria chemoprevention in Burkina Faso : recognition, constraints and adaptation strategies

2026-06-12T11:47:13+00:00

Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) relies on community distributors (CDs), who are key players in administering medicines and raising awareness among the population. However, despite their strategic importance, CDs face multiple organisational, financial, sociocultural, and security constraints. They also operate in a context of professional precariousness, marked by the absence of official status. These conditions undermine their social legitimacy and institutional recognition, thereby affecting the quality of intervention implementation. This study examines the role of DCs, focusing on their social and professional recognition, theconstraints they face, and the coping strategies they develop. We favoured a qualitative approach using several data collection techniques: direct observation, documentary research, individual interviews, focus groups, and life stories. Data were collected from DCs, parents, health workers, and the media before, during, and after the SMC campaigns in Bobo-Dioulasso over an eight-month period from March to October 2023. A total of 87 individual interviews, eight focus groups, and four life stories were conducted. The results show that the lack of social and professional recognition of DCs limits their legitimacy and authority in the community. The constraints they face, along with the coping strategies they use daily, reveal significant gaps between official standards and actual practices in the field, affecting coverage, parental adherence, and the overall effectiveness of the intervention.

Determinants of hepatitis B vaccination among newborns in Benin in 2023

2026-06-12T20:51:36+00:00

Hepatitis B infection remains a major public health concern. Disparities persist in birth-dose vaccination coverage in Bohicon, Benin. This study aimed to identify the determinants of hepatitis B vaccination coverage in this commune in 2023. This was a cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection, using a mixed-methods approach, conducted in 2024 among newborns, their mothers, and healthcare workers responsible for vaccination. Newborns were selected using three-stage cluster sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to mothers, a data extraction form for health records and vaccination registers, and an interview guide for vaccination healthcare providers. Data analysis was performed using Stata 15. Bivariate analysis was followed by multivariate analysis. Variables retained in the final model were those with a p-value < 5%. A total of 340 newborns and their mothers were surveyed. Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was 77.06%. Determinants of vaccination were place of delivery, specifically in a public health centre (OR=10.38; 95%CI=[4.37; 24.65]) or a private centre (OR=3.51; 95%CI=[1.36; 9.05]); a favourable family perception of vaccination (OR=5.23; 95%CI=[2.68; 10.21]); normal birth weight (OR=21.26; 95%CI=[6.67; 67.72]) or birth weight > 4000 grammes (OR=130.83; 95%CI=[10.55; 162.12]); and the absence of neonatal resuscitation at birth (OR=7.34; 95%CI=[2.24; 23.96]). Overall, vaccination remains a challenge in the municipality of Bohicon.

Comparative study of malaria prevalence in the health districts of Kayes and Sélingué from 2018 to 2022

2026-06-14T21:52:56+00:00

In Mali, malaria transmission is heterogeneous due to the diversity of eco-climatic zones and the complexity of the vector system. This study aimed to compare malaria prevalence in the health districts of Kayes and Sélingué from 2018 to 2022. This was a cross-sectional study analyzing District Health Information Software-2 data from 2018 to 2022. All complete records were considered and analyzed using R software, and comparisons were made using StatsTester_4.0.1. The significance threshold was 5%. Anonymity and confidentiality were
respected. Children under 5 years of age were the most represented in both health districts. The annual prevalence of malaria was statistically higher in the Sélingué health district than in Kayes in 2018 (10.6% vs. 3.9%; p=0.001), 2019 (10.4% vs. 4.7%; p=0.001), 2020 (9.6% vs. 3.4%; p=0.001), 2021 (7.5% vs. 3.2%; p=0.001), and 2022 (12.1% vs. 3.5%; p=0.001). Rapid diagnostic testing was the most commonly used diagnostic method in both districts (94.72% in Kayes and 94.06% in Sélingué). The third quarter was the period of high disease transmission in both districts. Our results showed high malaria transmission in Sélingué compared to Kayes. The national diagnostic policy is being followed in both districts with the use of rapid diagnostic tests. Further research is needed to explore the factors influencing malaria transmission and to better tailor interventions.

Modeling the impact of health interventions on mortality among children under five years with Lives Saved Tool (LiST) inMali

2026-06-14T22:15:05+00:00

The mortality of children under five in low-income countries remains a public health problem. The objective was to study the impact of the change in coverage of interventions in maternal, neonatal and child health and nutrition from 2001 to 2018 on the mortality of children under five. on under-5 mortality in Mali. It was an evaluative modelled using the Lives Saved Tool (LiST) version 6.8 Beta. The interventions selected were those defined in the various strategic plans between 2001 – 2018 relating to maternal and child health. The results showed that the under-five mortality rate decreased from 229 to 135 per thousand live births between 2001 and 2018. The interventions that saved the most lives were the measles vaccine (724 lives saved), the management of chronic malnutrition (467 lives saved), possession of mosquito nets impregnated with insecticide against malaria (428 lives saved), treatment of malaria with Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (282 lives saved), and antibiotics against pneumococcus (261 lives saved). The evaluation revealed that the coverage levels of the interventions of the plans in force have reduced the mortality rates, but target 4 of the Millennium Development Goals has not been achieved.

Factors associated with non-adherence to antiretroviral treatment among people living with HIV followed in health centers in the Oubri region, Burkina Faso

2026-06-15T16:15:04+00:00

The WHO’s “test and treat” strategy has helped increase the number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral therapy. However, the goal of viral suppression remains far from being achieved. Adherence, one of the key factors in achieving viral suppression, remains a challenge. The objective of our study was to identify factors associated with non-adherence to antiretroviral therapy in Burkina Faso’s Oubri region. An analytical study was conducted from June to December 2025. PLHIV aged 18 and older were interviewed upon arrival for their follow-up visits. Adherence was assessed based on self-reported medication intake. Individuals who had missed at least one day of treatment in the month preceding the survey were considered non-adherent. A logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the associated factors. A total of 328 participants were included: 232 women (70.73%) and 96 men (29.27%). The mean age was 45.89 ± 12.04 years. Sixty-five participants (19.82% ; 95% CI: 15.77–24.40) were non-adherent. Factors independently associated with non-adherence were difficulty accessing health facilities due to distance (aOR = 4.23 [95% CI: 2.24–8.00]) and perceived severity of HIV-related illness (aOR = 1.97 [95% CI: 1.10–3.56]). Community-based strategies to support adherence, as well as psychological counseling, should be strengthened.

Evaluation of knowledge and practice on hygienic and dietary measures in type 2 diabetics at the Mali hospital in 2024

2026-06-15T16:27:49+00:00

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body does not properly use the insulin produced. It represents a major public health issue, particularly in Mali, where more than 2 million people are affected by it. In a context marked by poverty and low levels of education, the application of health and diet measures (MHD), although essential in the management of diabetes, remains difficult. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge and practices of persons with type 2 diabetes (T2D) on health and diet measures. A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2023, involving 205 patients followed for T2D at the Mali hospital. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with patients and a review of their medical records. The analysis was performed using SPSS-20 software. Approximately 48.8% of patients with T2DM (PDT2) had good knowledge of the definition of diabetes, and 8.8% knew the type of diabetes they had. The most cited sign was the frequent urge to urinate (92.2% of PDT2). In terms of practice, 38% of the participants performed regular blood sugar monitoring at home, 29.3% consulted a dietitian,and 43.9% practiced physical activity. The most common difficulty in respecting the MHD was financial (59.5 %). Our study revealed that, despite MHDs having good knowledge, their practice was limited. An analytical study could better identify these factors.

Factors associated with incomplete prenatal care: A multilevel comparative analysis of data from the demographic and health surveys of Burkina Faso and Mali

2026-06-15T16:52:10+00:00

Prenatal care (PNC) constitutes a platform for providing important health services, including health promotion, screening, diagnosis, and disease prevention. It serves to identify risks, prevent, and manage pathologies related to or discovered during pregnancy. The objective of this study is to determine, beyond individual characteristics, the contextual factors that influence the completeness of prenatal care, while conducting a comparative analysis of these factors in two neighboring countries sharing a similar sociocultural and politico-health context. The multilevel logistic regression model was used to determine the factors associated with incomplete PNC in both countries. The prevalence of incomplete PNC was 26.69% for Burkina Faso and 42.99% for Mali. Respectively, 14.51% and 20.50% of the variation in incomplete prenatal care among women is attributable to enumeration areas. After adjustment, the analysis showed a significant decrease in the risk of incomplete prenatal care (PNC) when, in both countries, women were between 25 and 49 years old, their partners had a secondary education or higher, they were wealthy, and distance from a health center was a problem. This study concludes that there are common factors in both countries that influence the completeness of PNC. Therefore, it is important to combat poverty, promote education, and reduce inequalities in health coverage to improve women's access to PNC.

Elder abuse of people over 60 years of age: a phenomenon still neglected by public policy in Africa. A narrative review and anthropological approach

2026-06-15T19:01:18+00:00

Elder abuse is a universal phenomenon. Interventions are developed and implemented worldwide, but they are poorly understood and rarely evaluated. The objective of this review is to assess the state of the literature on interventions to combat elder abuse in African countries and to explain the relative scarcity of published studies. The review identified 41 publications in French and English extracted from several databases, including Medline, AgeLine, Health Policy Reference Centre, CINAHL Complete, ERIC, Political Science Complete, and the Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection. Knowledge about elder abuse is limited, fragmented, and unevenly distributed geographically and linguistically. The findings suggest that interventions aimed at combating elder abuse are ignored and overlooked on the African agenda.