This study tested a large suicide-prevention program in rural India. The program combined school lessons on mental health, safe storage of pesticides, and CHW training to spot and support people at risk. Across 124 villages, the program did not reduce the overall number of suicide attempts and deaths when combined, but it did lead to fewer deaths by suicide. Students who … [Read more...] about Implementation of an integrated community-based suicide prevention programme, Gujarat, India: cluster randomised controlled trial
Asia
Involvement of community health workers in antimicrobial stewardship interventions and programmes: a scoping review
This review looked at how community health workers help promote responsible antibiotic use in several countries across Africa and Asia. The studies showed that CHWs support infection prevention, help identify common illnesses, give health education, and in some cases prescribe antibiotics correctly when allowed. Their work led to better awareness of antibiotic resistance and … [Read more...] about Involvement of community health workers in antimicrobial stewardship interventions and programmes: a scoping review
A Digital Adaptation of the WHO’s Self-Help Plus Psychological Intervention to Alleviate Stress Among Community Health Workers: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of the SAMBHAV Program in Rural India
This study tested a smartphone-based version of the WHO’s Self-Help Plus program, called SAMBHAV, to help community health workers (ASHAs) in rural India manage stress and burnout. Forty ASHAs used the app over 12 weeks, showing reduced psychological distress and reporting it was practical, easy to use, and empowering. While some app navigation issues were noted, the … [Read more...] about A Digital Adaptation of the WHO’s Self-Help Plus Psychological Intervention to Alleviate Stress Among Community Health Workers: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of the SAMBHAV Program in Rural India
Development of a prediction model for infant hospitalization and death using clinical features assessed by community health workers during routine postnatal home visits in Dhaka, Bangladesh
This study developed a model to help community health workers in Dhaka, Bangladesh identify young infants at risk of hospitalization or death. Using routine home visit data, key risk factors included birth complications, umbilical cord care, gestational age, and four symptoms; nasal congestion, cough, jaundice, and skin rash. The model predicted serious illness better than the … [Read more...] about Development of a prediction model for infant hospitalization and death using clinical features assessed by community health workers during routine postnatal home visits in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Beyond Core Duties: A Framework for Reimagining Community Health Worker Contributions to Health Systems
This study looked at the everyday work of ASHAs in urban India and found that their jobs stretch far beyond their official duties. Alongside core health tasks, they are pulled into government activities like election work and often take on extra paid or unpaid projects with NGOs and private groups. These overlapping roles leave them overworked and limit their ability to focus … [Read more...] about Beyond Core Duties: A Framework for Reimagining Community Health Worker Contributions to Health Systems
