This study developed and tested a 5-day training program for Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), female community health workers in India, focusing on non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In a randomized trial in Tehri-Garhwal district, 36 ASHAs participated. The program significantly increased NCD knowledge among ASHAs compared to controls. ASHAs in the intervention group … [Read more...] about Development and evaluation of a training program on non-communicable diseases to empower community health workers in rural India
Asia
Long-term effectiveness of a village doctor-led multifaceted strategy on blood pressure control: a cluster randomized trial
This study tested a village doctor-led strategy to control blood pressure (BP) in rural China over 36 months. Village doctors, who provide basic primary care, managed hypertension through a stepped-care protocol, delivering medications, and offering health coaching on lifestyle changes and BP monitoring. In 326 villages, patients aged 40 and older with high BP were randomly … [Read more...] about Long-term effectiveness of a village doctor-led multifaceted strategy on blood pressure control: a cluster randomized trial
Feasibility, Reliability, and Effectiveness of Oral cancer screening in South Asia and Southeast Asian countries: A systematic review and Meta-analysis
This study assessed the effectiveness of community health workers (CHWs) in detecting oral cancer and potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) through visual screening in South Asia and Southeast Asia. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 studies found that CHWs identified 8% of cases as suspicious and 92% as normal. The screenings had a sensitivity of 75% and specificity … [Read more...] about Feasibility, Reliability, and Effectiveness of Oral cancer screening in South Asia and Southeast Asian countries: A systematic review and Meta-analysis
Holistic Approach for the Early Detection of Oral Cancer: A Comprehensive Training Module
This study aimed to educate Community Health Workers (CHWs) in India on early oral cancer detection to reduce the disease burden. A total of 178 participants were divided into two groups: one focused on screening and prevention, and the other on advanced diagnostics, AI-enabled tools, and patient care for Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders. Pre- and post-training assessments … [Read more...] about Holistic Approach for the Early Detection of Oral Cancer: A Comprehensive Training Module
Engaging Community Health Workers to Enhance Modern Contraceptive Uptake Among Young First-Time Parents in Five Cities of Uttar Pradesh
In slum settlements, young newly married women and first-time parents (FTPs) have a high need for modern contraceptives to limit and space births. This study describes an intervention that integrated adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health (AYSRH) services tailored for FTPs into the government’s existing family planning (FP) program in five cities in Uttar Pradesh. … [Read more...] about Engaging Community Health Workers to Enhance Modern Contraceptive Uptake Among Young First-Time Parents in Five Cities of Uttar Pradesh