Publications by authors named "Orippa Muzvidziwa"

In Zimbabwe, artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) are a key vulnerable group with high risk for tuberculosis (TB), HIV, and silicosis. The main purpose of this study was to investigate treatment outcomes of TB among ASMs. We conducted a follow-up observational study using secondary data.

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Artisanal and small-scale mining is characterized by excessive exposure to physical, chemical, ergonomic, psychosocial and biological hazards. There is a high burden of tuberculosis (TB), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections and silicosis among artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs). The aim of this project report is to describe lessons learned from strategies implemented to reach ASMs with screening services for TB, HIV and silicosis in Zimbabwe through the Kunda-Nqob'i TB (KNTB) project supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

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Article Synopsis
  • In Zimbabwe, artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) face high rates of tuberculosis (TB), HIV, and silicosis, prompting a study to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding these health issues.
  • The study involved 652 ASMs, primarily male and educated, revealing that while many understood TB is curable and recognized their increased risk, knowledge about the relationship between HIV and TB, as well as the dangers of silica dust, was lacking.
  • Despite a positive attitude towards seeking healthcare and willingness to use protective measures, actual practices like using respirators and seeking care were low, highlighting barriers such as financial issues and accessibility that need to be addressed through collaborative efforts.
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Artisanal and small-scale mining is characterized by an excessive exposure to silica-containing dust, overcrowding, poor living conditions and limited access to primary health services. This poses a risk to tuberculosis, HIV infection and silicosis. The main purpose of the study is to evaluate the burden of tuberculosis, HIV and silicosis among artisanal and small-scale miners.

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Article Synopsis
  • * A study conducted from October 2020 to January 2021 involved 514 ASMs, revealing that 11.2% were diagnosed with silicosis, and 4.0% with TB, while 23.5% of those tested for HIV were sero-positive.
  • * The study highlights a critical need for improved occupational health services for ASMs, emphasizing the importance of TB and silicosis surveillance, although these findings are preliminary and require further research for validation.
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