Publications by authors named "W B P Matuja"
Objective: In onchocerciasis-endemic areas, limited access to antiseizure medications (ASMs) contributes to a high epilepsy burden. This study evaluated the impact of a community-based epilepsy care program in Mahenge, Tanzania, an onchocerciasis-endemic area with high epilepsy prevalence.
Methods: A baseline survey (2017-2018) identified persons with epilepsy (PWE) in four rural villages.
Article Synopsis
- Epilepsy is a major public health issue in Tanzania, particularly in Mahenge, where stigma and misconceptions significantly impact the lives of affected individuals.
- A study involving 778 participants revealed that while most were aware of epilepsy, their knowledge was low, leading to negative attitudes and misconceptions about the disorder's causes, such as witchcraft and hereditary factors.
- Stigma towards individuals with epilepsy was prevalent, resulting in social isolation and barriers to education, with traditional healers often being the first point of treatment despite the lack of understanding of the condition.
Article Synopsis
- The study investigates the link between Onchocerca volvulus (causing onchocerciasis) and epilepsy in Mahenge, Tanzania, focusing on the prevalence of both conditions after 25 years of ivermectin treatment.
- A cross-sectional survey of 56,604 individuals was conducted, revealing onchocerciasis prevalence among children at 11.8%, higher in medium-altitude villages, and epilepsy incidence at 21.1 cases per 1,000 persons, also more prevalent in medium altitudes.
- Female gender, middle altitudes, and positive OV16 antibodies were associated with a higher likelihood of having epilepsy, highlighting ongoing public health challenges despite long-term ivermectin use.
Nodding Syndrome is a poorly understood epilepsy disorder in sub-Saharan Africa. The cause(s) of the disease, risk factors and long-term outcomes are unknown or controversial. The objectives of this study were to describe the long-term clinical course and treatment outcomes of individuals suffering from Nodding Syndrome.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPrevious studies have described the association of onchocerciasis (caused by Onchocerca volvulus) with epilepsy, including nodding syndrome, although a clear etiological link is still missing. Cases are found in different African countries (Tanzania, South Sudan, Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic and Cameroon). In our study we investigated immunological parameters (cytokine, chemokine, immunoglobulin levels) in individuals from the Mahenge area, Tanzania, presenting with either epilepsy or nodding syndrome with or without O.
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