This study explores using artificial intelligence to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) by analyzing cough sounds. The researchers developed a system that first distinguishes between coughs and background noise, then classifies the cough as either TB-related or not. They collected cough recordings from patients at a hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, and tested the system using various … [Read more...] about A Novel Cascaded Approach for Classification of Tuberculosis Using Cough Audio in Real-Time Environment
Pakistan
A multi-phase structured cascade model for mass training of community healthcare workers in performing clinical breast exams in remote regions
A pilot training program in Pakistan used a cascade model to teach outreach healthcare workers (HCWs) in remote areas how to perform clinical breast exams (CBEs). Six HCWs were trained by breast surgeons, who then trained 15 more HCWs. The program significantly improved HCWs' confidence and skills, with gains sustained over a year. This model shows promise for expanding access … [Read more...] about A multi-phase structured cascade model for mass training of community healthcare workers in performing clinical breast exams in remote regions
Where there is no specialist – Improving Mental Health Literacy of Frontline Community Health Workers in a Rural District of Pakistan: The mPareshan Project
This study evaluated a training program in Pakistan that improved community health workers' ability to identify and address anxiety and depression. Lady Health Workers (LHWs) and Supervisors (LHSs) received training adapted to the local context. After the training, participants showed significant improvements in knowledge and skills. The program highlights the potential for … [Read more...] about Where there is no specialist – Improving Mental Health Literacy of Frontline Community Health Workers in a Rural District of Pakistan: The mPareshan Project
Targeted Violence Against Community Health Workers: A Critical Barrier to Pakistan’s Polio Eradication Goals
Workplace violence is a major challenge for healthcare workers in Pakistan, particularly for polio vaccinators who face targeted attacks. These incidents have hindered vaccination efforts, leading to a rise in polio cases and the tragic loss of many workers and security personnel. Misinformation, cultural resistance, and socio-economic challenges worsen the situation. To … [Read more...] about Targeted Violence Against Community Health Workers: A Critical Barrier to Pakistan’s Polio Eradication Goals
Integrating humanities in healthcare: a mixed-methods study for development and testing of a humanities curriculum for front-line health workers in Karachi, Pakistan
In Pakistan, lady health workers (LHWs) play a crucial role in providing maternal and child health services but face low pay and heavy workloads. To help them better connect with and support their patients, the researchers created a training program based on local art and literature aimed at enhancing their empathy, communication, and compassion. This program was tested with … [Read more...] about Integrating humanities in healthcare: a mixed-methods study for development and testing of a humanities curriculum for front-line health workers in Karachi, Pakistan