This systematic review consolidated evidence from 50 quantitative studies published over the last decade regarding the effectiveness of Community Health Worker (CHW)-led interventions on adolescent health and well-being across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The review found that CHW programs show strong potential for improving adolescent mental health, yielding moderate-certainty … [Read more...] about Community health workers and adolescent health and well-being across sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
Feasibility of community-based hypertension screening and referral by village health teams in eastern Uganda: A quasi-experimental study
A study in Eastern Uganda tested whether community health workers, known as Village Health Teams (VHTs), could help find people with high blood pressure. After receiving basic training, VHTs screened over 5,000 adults in their homes and workplaces. About one in five people had high blood pressure, and most who went to the clinic after being referred were confirmed to have … [Read more...] about Feasibility of community-based hypertension screening and referral by village health teams in eastern Uganda: A quasi-experimental study
Improving Contraception Outreach through Human-Centered Design: A Pilot Study of the Ndingathe (“I Can”) Intervention in Rural Malawi
This study in rural Malawi tested a program called Ndingathe (“I Can”) to help community health workers, known as Health Surveillance Assistants (HSAs), improve access to contraception; especially self-injectable options. The program gave HSAs tools like bicycles, lunch allowances, and better planning materials, which helped them hold more and longer outreach clinics. Both HSAs … [Read more...] about Improving Contraception Outreach through Human-Centered Design: A Pilot Study of the Ndingathe (“I Can”) Intervention in Rural Malawi
Exploring Local Health Knowledge and Access: Focus Group Findings from Community Health Workers in Pader District, Uganda
This study explored the experiences of community health workers (CHWs) in Pader District, Northern Uganda, where many people still struggle to access healthcare after years of conflict and poverty. Through focus group discussions with 46 CHWs, malaria, maternal and child health issues, and rising chronic diseases emerged as top concerns. CHWs said their work is limited by long … [Read more...] about Exploring Local Health Knowledge and Access: Focus Group Findings from Community Health Workers in Pader District, Uganda
Building community capacity in diabetes care: Perspectives of community health workers
This study explored how community health workers (CHWs) in South Africa see their role in supporting people with diabetes. Through group discussions with 32 CHWs in Tshwane District, researchers found that their main work involves health education on diet, lifestyle, medication, family involvement, and self-care. CHWs also help with screening, follow-up, and referrals. The … [Read more...] about Building community capacity in diabetes care: Perspectives of community health workers