This review looked at whether community health workers can help prevent and reduce depression during pregnancy and after birth in sub-Saharan Africa. Across 16 studies, programs led by community health workers lowered the risk of depressed mood in the first year after childbirth and reduced symptoms among women who were already struggling. The benefits were seen in the first … [Read more...] about How effective are community health workers in managing and preventing perinatal depression in sub-Saharan Africa? A systematic review of quantitative evidence
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
Unlocking the potential of traditional birth attendants in Somaliland: a qualitative study on healthcare system integration
This study explored the roles of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in Somaliland. Historically, TBAs handled pregnancy, childbirth, and harmful practices like female genital mutilation. Today, their role has shifted. They act as trusted links between communities and formal healthcare, helping women access professional maternal and reproductive services. Using TBAs in this way … [Read more...] about Unlocking the potential of traditional birth attendants in Somaliland: a qualitative study on healthcare system integration
Enhancing Public Knowledge of Risk Factors and Warning Signs for Stroke and Heart Attack Through Home-Based Community Health Worker Interventions: A Cluster Randomized Trial
This study tested whether home visits by community health workers could improve people’s understanding of stroke and heart attack in rural Tanzania. Over one year, people who received regular home education learned more about risk factors and warning signs than those who received usual care. The results show that community health workers can effectively improve knowledge that … [Read more...] about Enhancing Public Knowledge of Risk Factors and Warning Signs for Stroke and Heart Attack Through Home-Based Community Health Worker Interventions: A Cluster Randomized Trial
Community health workers’ usability and acceptability of an mHealth tool for post-cesarean assessments: A mixed-methods study in rural Rwanda
This study tested a mobile phone tool designed to help community health workers support women after cesarean birth in rural Rwanda. Community health workers were trained to use the tool during home visits to check symptoms and share information with health facilities. The workers found the tool easy to use and helpful, and their performance using it was strong. Overall, the … [Read more...] about Community health workers’ usability and acceptability of an mHealth tool for post-cesarean assessments: A mixed-methods study in rural Rwanda
Effectiveness of a Home-based Approach to Child Contact Investigation and Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment Management by Community Health Workers in Ethiopia: A Pragmatic Cluster-randomized Trial
This study looked at whether community health workers visiting families at home could help more children start treatment to prevent tuberculosis. Compared to standard clinic-based care, home visits led to about 40% more children beginning preventive treatment, with similar completion and safety outcomes in both groups. While the difference was not statistically certain, the … [Read more...] about Effectiveness of a Home-based Approach to Child Contact Investigation and Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment Management by Community Health Workers in Ethiopia: A Pragmatic Cluster-randomized Trial
