This study looked at why many families in Indonesia and Ethiopia still prefer Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) despite efforts to promote hospital births. Interviews and group discussions with mothers, TBAs, community health workers, men, and community leaders showed that people value TBAs because they are close by, trusted, and provide culturally familiar support. The … [Read more...] about Context and reasons of preference for use of traditional birth attendant care in Indonesia and Ethiopia
Asia
Community health volunteer support for regular blood pressure monitoring in Indonesia spatial regression models
This study explored how community health volunteers (CHVs) in Indonesia influence regular blood pressure checks, which are key to managing hypertension. Using national survey data, researchers found that people were more likely to monitor their blood pressure when CHVs rated their traits (using a likert scale) as kind, considerate, and helpful, especially in parts of Sumatra. … [Read more...] about Community health volunteer support for regular blood pressure monitoring in Indonesia spatial regression models
Exploring community health workers’ perspectives on recommending influenza vaccination to older adults: a phenomenological study
This study looked at how community health workers (CHWs) in Shanghai encourage older adults to get the flu vaccine. While most were willing to recommend the vaccine, many were cautious and focused on avoiding blame or harming their reputation. Their actions were shaped by personal beliefs, community expectations, their own skills, and lessons from COVID-19. The study suggests … [Read more...] about Exploring community health workers’ perspectives on recommending influenza vaccination to older adults: a phenomenological study
Ear Care and Hearing Health Awareness Among Female Community Health Volunteers in Nepal
This study looked at what female community health volunteers (FCHVs) in Nepal know and do about ear and hearing health. It involved 2,154 FCHVs from three districts and found that most used harmful methods like cotton buds or oil to clean their ears, and many treated ear problems without medical advice. While most knew that loud noise and infections can cause hearing loss, … [Read more...] about Ear Care and Hearing Health Awareness Among Female Community Health Volunteers in Nepal
Experiences of community health workers in providing tobacco cessation support within antenatal care services in rural India
This study looked at how community health workers (CHWs) in rural India helped pregnant women quit tobacco. From 2022 to 2024, CHWs were trained to talk to women about the dangers of tobacco and offer support to help them stop using it. The program was found to fit well into their regular work, and many women stopped using tobacco after a few months. CHWs suggested expanding … [Read more...] about Experiences of community health workers in providing tobacco cessation support within antenatal care services in rural India