This review looked at whether community health workers can help prevent and manage depression during and after pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa. Sixteen studies showed that CHW-led support programs consistently lowered the risk of depressed mood in the first year after birth, with benefits starting early and lasting up to 12 months. For women already showing moderate symptoms, … [Read more...] about How Effective are Community Health Workers in Managing and Preventing Perinatal Depression in Sub-Saharan Africa? A Systematic Review of Quantitative Evidence
CHW Role
Safe Patient Handling Musculoskeletal Injury-Prevention Smartphone App for Community Health Care Workers: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study
This study developed and tested the SPH MSIP smartphone app to help community health care workers handle patients safely and prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Through co-design with workers, the app provides step-by-step guidance for high-risk tasks. In a one-month trial with 28 participants, the app was easy to use, useful, and well-received. Results suggest it can support … [Read more...] about Safe Patient Handling Musculoskeletal Injury-Prevention Smartphone App for Community Health Care Workers: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study
Development of a prediction model for infant hospitalization and death using clinical features assessed by community health workers during routine postnatal home visits in Dhaka, Bangladesh
This study developed a model to help community health workers in Dhaka, Bangladesh identify young infants at risk of hospitalization or death. Using routine home visit data, key risk factors included birth complications, umbilical cord care, gestational age, and four symptoms; nasal congestion, cough, jaundice, and skin rash. The model predicted serious illness better than the … [Read more...] about Development of a prediction model for infant hospitalization and death using clinical features assessed by community health workers during routine postnatal home visits in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Beyond Core Duties: A Framework for Reimagining Community Health Worker Contributions to Health Systems
This study looked at the everyday work of ASHAs in urban India and found that their jobs stretch far beyond their official duties. Alongside core health tasks, they are pulled into government activities like election work and often take on extra paid or unpaid projects with NGOs and private groups. These overlapping roles leave them overworked and limit their ability to focus … [Read more...] about Beyond Core Duties: A Framework for Reimagining Community Health Worker Contributions to Health Systems
Effectiveness of Community Health Worker Interventions in Type 2 Diabetes Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
This review looked at how well community health workers help people manage type 2 diabetes. It analyzed 40 studies with more than 9,600 participants and found that CHW programs clearly help lower HbA1c levels. The results were consistent across different countries, income levels, program styles, and patient backgrounds, suggesting these interventions work in many settings. One … [Read more...] about Effectiveness of Community Health Worker Interventions in Type 2 Diabetes Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials