Diagnostic performance of fecal Helicobacter pylori antigen test in Uganda.

We evaluated the diagnostic performance of a qualitative stool antigen test (SAT) in individuals with dyspepsia in rural Uganda using the polymerase chain reaction-based 16S ribosomal RNA assay (16S rRNA) for nucleotide sequences for two common H. pylori-associated genes as the reference standard. We enrolled 150 adults with dyspepsia with no self-reported use of antibiotic and/or antiacid medication medications within a fortnight.

Improved documentation following the implementation of a trauma registry: A means of sustainability for trauma registries in low- and middle-income countries.

Introduction: Trauma registries in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are critical for improving trauma care; however, while some registries have been established in low-income settings, few are sustained due to a lack of sustainable funding. In many LMIC institutions, funding is dependent on documentation of trauma patients, but patient records may be of poor quality, missing, or incomplete. The development of a trauma registry and electronic patient registration system could be used to improve documentation of trauma patients in a low-income setting and lead to increased funding for trauma care.

Population attributable fraction of Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma due to smoking and alcohol in Uganda.

Background: Despite the high rates and regional variation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in East Africa, the contributions of smoking and alcohol to the ESCC burden in the general population are unknown.

Methods: We conducted a case-control study of patients presenting for upper gastrointestinal endoscopic examination at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda. Sociodemographic data including smoking and alcohol intake were collected prior to endoscopy.