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Abstract Kidney disease is a non-communicable disease and a major global health burden, with increasing morbidity and mortality trends. It is predicted to become the fifth leading cause of disease by 2040. Unfortunately, most people are unaware that they have this condition until it has progressed. Research aimed at systematically summarizing findings on the socioeconomic effects of kidney disease on families in Africa was reviewed. Out of 245 papers, nine were selected for review. This review highlighted that the socioeconomic status of a patient is inversely related to chronic kidney failure (CKF). Both chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its treatment are financially demanding for patients. The review found that consumers spend a significant amount of money on clinic appointments, hospital admissions, prescriptions, and kidney replacement treatments, such as hemodialysis. The lack of health insurance coverage across the African region pushes many families deeper into poverty. The impact is not only financial; it also affects education and employment. Some patients and their families experience delays in education and job loss. The cost of traveling to treatment facilities, as observed in Rwanda and Sudan, also imposes financial and social burdens. Additionally, the exclusive cost of essential medicines, such as those for lupus nephritis, and the lack of adequate nutritional products for dialysis patients further intensify the burden. The scoping review emphasizes the need to establish proper health policies and support systems to alleviate the socioeconomic burdens of families affected by kidney diseases in Africa. Access to health insurance, affordable treatment options, and community-based support services are crucial factors that can mitigate the catastrophic impact on individuals' financial status and families.

Abstract Cholera continues to severely threaten public health, particularly in regions with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. Zimbabwe, a southern African nation, has witnessed recurrent cholera outbreaks, highlighting the enduring vulnerabilities faced by communities grappling with these underlying challenges. The 2023 cholera outbreak in Chegutu resulted in a devastating impact, with approximately 100 reported deaths and nearly 5000 confirmed and suspected cases. Beyond its immediate health consequences, the outbreak has strained the already fragile healthcare system, exacerbated issues of malnutrition, and disrupted education, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. The Zimbabwean government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and international agencies have initiated comprehensive efforts to combat the outbreak, encompassing medical treatment, surveillance, public health measures, infrastructure improvement, and community empowerment. Policy recommendations and future directions are discussed, emphasising risk communication, stakeholder engagement, standardisation, evaluation, resource allocation, and capacity-building to bolster prevention and control measures.

AbstractBackground Cerebrovascular disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Africa, and using neuroimaging techniques has improved the diagnosis and management of this disease. However, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews of the role and effectiveness of neuroimaging techniques in the African context.Methods We reviewed the literature to evaluate the role of neuroimaging in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa. Our search included electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar from 2000 to April 2023. We included peer-reviewed studies written in English that reported on the use of neuroimaging in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in African populations. We excluded non-peer-reviewed articles, letters, editorials, and studies unrelated to cerebrovascular disease, neuroimaging, or Africa. A total of 102 potential articles were identified; after applying our exclusion criteria and removing duplicated articles, 51 articles were reviewed.Results Our findings suggest that neuroimaging techniques such as CT, MRI, and Skull x-ray play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa. CT and MRI were the most commonly used techniques, with CT being more widely available and less expensive than MRI. However, challenges to using neuroimaging in Africa include the high cost of equipment and maintenance, lack of trained personnel, and inadequate infrastructure. These challenges limit the widespread use of neuroimaging in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa.Conclusion Neuroimaging techniques are essential for diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa, but challenges to their use must be addressed to improve healthcare outcomes. Our policy recommendations can help improve the availability and accessibility of neuroimaging services in Africa.

Abstract Background Malaria is a major public health concern among pregnant women in sub‐Saharan Africa. Within the region, Nigeria has the highest malaria cases. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with malaria parasitaemia among pregnant women at a booking clinic in Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted between January and April 2021 at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria. A sample of 300 pregnant women participated, and anaemia and malaria were diagnosed using packed cell volume and Giemsa‐stained blood smears, respectively. Data analysis was done using SPSS 25.0. Results The study found that 26 (8.70%) pregnant women tested positive for malaria parasitaemia. Factors such as age, religion, level of education, and occupation were significantly related to the prevalence of malaria parasitaemia among pregnant women with p

Background: Limited health insurance coverage in Africa poses a significant challenge, impeding access to quality healthcare for millions of individuals. Methods: This paper synthesizes information from existing literature and research on the topic of limited health insurance coverage in Africa. The identified consequences and root causes are presented in a structured format. Results: The consequences of limited health insurance coverage in Africa include increased financial burden on households, decreased access to health services, and inadequate coverage for essential health services. These consequences contribute to reduced utilization of healthcare services and negative health outcomes, including the deterioration of existing health conditions and the development of new health problems. The financial burden is particularly significant due to high poverty rates in Africa, forcing households to pay for healthcare services out of pocket and leading to considerable financial strain and even financial ruin. Additionally, limited health insurance coverage restricts access to necessary health services, resulting in delayed treatment, missed diagnoses, and poor health outcomes. Conclusion: The root causes of limited health insurance coverage in Africa are multifaceted and include factors such as poverty, lack of government support, and limited private‐sector involvement. These systemic issues contribute to the persistence of inadequate health insurance coverage and hinder efforts to improve access to quality healthcare for African populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that affects many people in Africa, yet the burden of the disease is often hidden. The management of epilepsy in Africa is often inadequate due to a lack of awareness and education, limited access to diagnostic tools and treatments, inadequate coordination of care, and the stigma associated with the condition. Method: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather information on the epidemiology, diagnosis, management, and outcomes of epilepsy in Africa. The review included studies from peer‐reviewed journals, government reports, and gray literature. Results: The review revealed a high burden of epilepsy in Africa. The studies also showed a significant gap in the availability and accessibility of diagnostic tools, antiepileptic drugs, and specialized therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Additionally, the review found that cultural beliefs and practices, socioeconomic factors such as poverty and lack of access to healthcare, and the stigma associated with the condition, also pose significant challenges to managing epilepsy in Africa. Conclusion: The study highlights the urgent need for improved epilepsy management in Africa. Additionally, the study calls for further research on epilepsy in Africa and collaboration between all stakeholders to improve the management of epilepsy in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]