This study in Bolivia explored the physical and mental health of volunteer community health workers and how their work affects their wellbeing. The workers generally considered themselves physically healthy, but many faced difficulties accessing routine health checks because of long waiting times and inconvenient service hours. Some also experienced anxiety, depression, and … [Read more...] about Physical and mental health of community health workers in Bolivia: Evidence from a large NGO-run program
South America
Co-developing a community health worker-led hypertension control intervention in Peru through a human-centered design approach
This study worked with community health workers, healthcare providers, and community members in Peru to design a community-based hypertension support program. It found that community health workers can help people manage high blood pressure by promoting healthy habits, supporting medication use, encouraging regular clinic visits, and helping patients navigate the health system. … [Read more...] about Co-developing a community health worker-led hypertension control intervention in Peru through a human-centered design approach
The experience of the “Mais Saúde com Agente” program: training community health workers for a new Brazil
This article highlights Brazil’s Mais Saúde com Agente program, a large national effort to strengthen and professionalize community health workers through comprehensive training. Since 2024, nearly 300,000 community health workers and disease control agents have received training covering topics such as mental health, oral health, climate change, health equity, and community … [Read more...] about The experience of the “Mais Saúde com Agente” program: training community health workers for a new Brazil
Community Health Workers and Mental Health Among Indigenous Communities in Amazonia: A Scoping Review
This review looked at research on community health workers supporting mental health among Indigenous communities in the Amazon region. It found that these workers often act as important links between Indigenous communities and formal health services, helping identify emotional distress early, offering basic support, and guiding people to care. Different countries use different … [Read more...] about Community Health Workers and Mental Health Among Indigenous Communities in Amazonia: A Scoping Review
Knowledge and attitudes of community health workers in Ecuador regarding the prevention of chronic malnutrition in children: results of a cross-sectional exploratory study
This study looked at what community health workers in Ecuador know about child malnutrition and how confident they feel addressing it. It found that while many understand the causes and feel confident giving advice, there are gaps in knowledge about the effects of malnutrition and proper feeding practices, especially for young children. Less experienced workers had lower … [Read more...] about Knowledge and attitudes of community health workers in Ecuador regarding the prevention of chronic malnutrition in children: results of a cross-sectional exploratory study