Browsing by Author "Makumbi, Fredrick"
Now showing 1 - 20 of 31
Results Per Page
Sort Options
Item AIDS Care: Psychological and Socio-medical Aspects of AIDS/HIV(AIDS Care, 2011) Nakigozi, Gertrude; Makumbi, Fredrick; Reynolds, Steven; Galiwango, Ronald; Kagaayi, Joseph; Nalugoda, Fred; Ssettuba, Absalom; Sekasanvu, Joseph; Musuuza, Jackson; Serwada, David; Gray, Ron; Wawer, MariaImproved understanding of HIV-related health-seeking behavior at a population level is important in informing the design of more effective HIV prevention and care strategies. We assessed the frequency and determinants of failure to seek free HIV care in Rakai, Uganda. HIV-positive participants in a community cohort who accepted VCT were referred for free HIV care (cotrimoxazole prophylaxis, CD4 monitoring, treatment of opportunistic infections, and, when indicated, antiretroviral therapy). We estimated proportion and adjusted Prevalence Risk Ratios (adj. PRR) of non-enrollment into care six months after receipt of VCT using log-binomial regression. About 1145 HIV-positive participants in the Rakai Community Cohort Study accepted VCT and were referred for care. However, 31.5% (361/1145) did not enroll into HIV care six months after referral. Non-enrollment was significantly higher among men (38%) compared to women (29%, p 0.005). Other factors associated with nonenrollment included: younger age (15 24 years, adj. PRR 2.22; 95% CI: 1.64, 3.00), living alone (adj. PRR 2.22; 95% CI: 1.57, 3.15); or in households with 1 2 co-residents (adj. PRR 1.63; 95% CI: 1.31, 2.03) compared to three or more co-residents, or a CD4 count 250 cells/ul (adj. PRR 1.81; 95% CI: 1.38, 2.46). Median (IQR) CD4 count was lower among enrolled 388 cells/ul (IQR: 211,589) compared to those not enrolled 509 cells/ul (IQR: 321,754).About one-third of HIV-positive persons failed to utilize community-based free services. Non-use of services was greatest among men, the young, persons with higher CD4 counts and the more socially isolated, suggesting a need for targeted strategies to enhance service uptakeItem The Burden of Tetanus in Uganda(Springerplus, 2016) Nanteza, Barbara; Galukande, Moses; Aceng, Jane; Musinguzi, Joshua; Opio, Alex; Mbonye, Anthony K.; Mukooyo, Eddie; Behumize, Prosper; Makumbi, FredrickThe successful scale-up of safe male circumcision (SMC) in Uganda has been hinged on client’s safety and quality of services. However, after the recent three tetanus deaths after circumcision a review of all tetanus cases in one of the hospitals where the cases occurred was initiated. This was to ascertain the potential for an association between tetanus infection and circumcision. Routinely collected national data were also reviewed to determine the burden of tetanus in Uganda and contextualize these incidents.Item Client-provider interactions in provider-initiated and voluntary HIV counseling and testing services in Uganda(BMC Health Services Research, 2013) Wanyenze, Rhoda K.; Kyaddondo, David; Kinsman, John; Makumbi, Fredrick; Colebunders, Robert; Hardon, AnitaProvider-initiated HIV testing and counselling (PITC) is based on information-giving while voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) includes individualised client-centered counseling. It is not known if the providerclient experiences, perceptions and client satisfaction with the information provided differs in the two approaches. Methods: In 2008, we conducted structured interviews with 627 individuals in Uganda; 301 tested through PITC and 326 through voluntary counselling and testing (VCT). We compared client experiences and perceptions based on the essential elements of consent, confidentiality, counseling, and referral for follow-up care. We conducted multivariate analysis for predictors of reporting information or counselling as sufficient. Results: In VCT, 96.6% (282) said they were asked for consent compared to 91.3% (198) in PITC (P = 0.01). About the information provided, 92.0% (286) in VCT found it sufficient compared to 78.7% (221) in PITC (P = <0.01). In VCT 79.9% (246) thought their results were kept confidential compared to 71.7% (200) in PITC (P = 0.02). Eighty percent (64) of HIV infected VCT clients said they were referred for follow-up care versus 87.3% (48) in PITC (p = 0.2). Predictors of perceived adequacy of information in PITC included an opportunity to ask questions (adj.RR 1.76, CI 1.41, 2.18) and expecting the test results received (adj.RR 1.18, CI 1.06, 1.33). For VCT significant factors included being given an opportunity to ask questions (adj.RR 1.62, CI 1.00, 2.60) and 3+ prior times tested, (adj.RR 1.05, CI 1.00, 1.09).Item Contraceptive use, prevalence and predictors of pregnancy planning among female sex workers in Uganda: a cross sectional study(BMC pregnancy and childbirth, 2019) Nnakate Bukenya, Justine; Wanyenze, Rhoda K.; Barrett, Geraldine; Hall, Jennifer; Makumbi, Fredrick; Guwatudde, DavidUnintended pregnancies are associated with negative consequences to both mother and baby. Female Sex Workers (FSWs) are at high risk of unintended/unplanned pregnancies. However, prevalence of pregnancy planning and its predictors among FSWs has not been comprehensively investigated. This study was designed to determine contraceptive use, the prevalence, and predictors of pregnancy planning among FSWs in Uganda. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 819 FSWs attending most at risk populations initiative (MARPI) clinics were recruited using systematic sampling and interviewed with a pretested questionnaire that included collection of data on pregnancy intention using the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy (LMUP). Data were analysed using STATA version 14.0. Multinomial logistic regression model was used to identify predictors of pregnancy planning, Results: Of the 819 study participants, only 90 (11.0%) had planned pregnancies. Overall, 462 (56.4%) were hazardous alcohol users and 335 (40.9%) abused drugs; 172 (21.0%) had been raped in the last 2 years and 70 (40.7%) of these accessed emergency contraception post-rape. Dual contraception use (condom and other modern method) was 58.0%. Having a non-emotional partner as a man who impregnated the FSW compared to emotional partner was significantly associated with less planned relative to unplanned pregnancy, (aRR = 0.15 95%Cl =0.08, 0.30), so was lack of reported social support compared to support from friends, (aRR = 0.44; 95% CI = 0.22–0.87), keeping all factors constant in the model. Being raped (aRR = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.31–0.84) or abuse of substances (aRR = 0.65; 95% CI = 0.45–0.93) were significantly associated with lower ambivalence relative to unplanned pregnancy but not with planned relative to unplanned pregnancy. Conclusion: Compared to women in the general population, pregnancy planning was low among FSWs amidst modest use of dual contraceptive. There is an urgent need to promote dual contraception among FSWs to prevent unplanned pregnancies especially with non-emotional partners, drug users, and post-rape.Item Correlates of hepatitis B awareness and disease-specific knowledge among pregnant women in Northern and Central Uganda: a cross-sectional study(Hepatology, medicine and policy, 2018) Nankya-Mutyoba, Joan; Aizire, Jim; Makumbi, Fredrick; Atuyambe, Lynn; Ocama, Ponsiano; Kirk, Gregory D.Countries in sub-Saharan Africa with a high hepatitis B burden also have limited resources to identify underlying drivers of disease among key at-risk populations. To improve prioritization and strengthen prevention of mother to child transmission of HBV, it is imperative to understand disease awareness, knowledge and related factors among pregnant women. Objectives: This study assessed HBV disease awareness, knowledge and related factors among pregnant women in public health facilities in two regions with diverse HBV disease epidemiology. Methods: From October 2016 through December 2017, a random sample of 455 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics were surveyed to assess HBV awareness, knowledge and associated factors. Participants responded to an 18-item questionnaire with themes on HBV awareness, knowledge of disease signs and symptoms, transmission, prevention and misconceptions about the disease. Results were analysed in STATA (version 14.0). Results: Of 455 participants enrolled, about two thirds reported having heard about HBV disease. By region, nearly half (47%) of participants from the central region, compared to only 16% from the north, reported that they had never heard of HBV. Region of residence had a moderating effect on the education- HBV awareness relationship. Only 162/455 (36%) of participants had adequate HBV knowledge. More than half 256/455 (56%) and 242/455 (53%) were not knowledgeable about horizontal and mother to child HBV transmission, respectively. About two thirds 298/455 (66%) and 281/455 (62%) believed HBV was spread via sharing of utensils and mosquito bites respectively. In multiple regression analysis, residing in the north, (PR=1.91(1.53 -2.38), p < 0.001) compared to central region and having a secondary education (PR=1.87(1.37 -2.55), p < 0.001) compared to primary were statistically significantly related to being knowledgeable about HBV. Conclusion: We demonstrated marked regional differences in HBV disease awareness and knowledge in this high HBV prevalence setting. However, most pregnant women displayed unacceptably low HBV knowledge and a significant proportion still hold misconceptions about HBV. Interventions to improve HBV prevention through antenatal education will need to be tailored to existing differences in comprehensive HBV knowledge.Item Corrigendum to “Hepatitis B birth dose vaccination for newborns in Uganda: A qualitative inquiry on pregnant women’s perceptions, barriers and preferences”(Journal of Virus Eradication, 2021) Nankya Mutyoba, Joan; Surkan, Pamela J.; Makumbi, Fredrick; Aizire, Jim; Kirk, Gregory D.; Ocama, Ponsiano; Atuyambe, Lynn M.The full acknowledgment for the article is restated herein: This research (or [initials]) was supported by the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA). CARTA is jointly led by the African Population and Health Research Center and the University of the Witwatersrand and funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York (Grant No—G-19-57145), Sida (Grant No:54100113), Uppsala Monitoring Center and the DELTAS Africa Initiative (Grant No: 107768/Z/ 15/Z). The DELTAS Africa Initiative is an independent funding scheme of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS)’s Alliance for Accelerating Excellence in Science in Africa (AESA) and supported by the New Partnership for Africa’s Development Planning and Coordinating Agency (NEPAD Agency) with funding from the Wellcome Trust (UK) and the UK government. The statements made and views expressed are solely the responsibility of the Fellow.Item Desire for female sterilization among women wishing to limit births in rural Rakai, Uganda(Contraception, 2015) Lutalo, Tom; Gray, Ron; Sanyukta, Mathur,; Wawer, Maria; Guwatudde, David; Santelli, John; Nalugoda, Fred; Makumbi, Fredrick: Uganda has an unmet need for family planning of 34% and a total fertility rate of 6.2. We assessed the desire for female sterilization among sexually active women who wanted to stop childbearing in rural Rakai district, Uganda. Study design: 7,192 sexually active women enrolled in a community cohort between 2002 and 2008 were asked about fertility intentions. Those stating that they did not want another child (limiters) were asked whether they would be willing to accept female sterilization, if available. Trends in desire for sterilization were determined by Chi-square test for trend, and Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate prevalence rate ratios (PRR) and 95% confidence intervals of the associations between desire for sterilization and socio-demographic characteristics and HIV status. Results: From 2002 to 2008, the proportion of limiters dropped (47.2% to 43.7%; p<0.01). Use of pills and injectables among limiters significantly increased, 38.9% to 50.3% (p<0.0001), while use of IUDs and implants declined from 3.3% to 1.7% (p<0.001). The desire for sterilization significantly increased from 54.2% to 63.1% (p<0.0001), and this was consistently higher among the HIV-positive (63.6% to 70.9%, p<0.01) than HIV-negative women (53.3% to 61.2%, p<0.0001). Factors significantly associated with the desire for sterilization included higher number of living children (>=3), being HIV-infected and having received HIV counseling and testing. Conclusion: There is latent and growing desire for sterilization in this population. Our findings suggest a need to increase permanent contraception services for women who want to limit childbearing in this setting.Item Determinants of fertility desire among married or cohabiting individuals in Rakai, Uganda: a cross-sectional study(Reproductive health, 2017) Matovu, Joseph K.B.; Makumbi, Fredrick; Wanyenze, Rhoda K.; Serwadda, DavidRecent trends in fertility rates indicate declines in total fertility rate (TFR) in some sub-Saharan African countries. However, countries such as Uganda continue to have a persistently high TFR partly attributed to strong preferences for large family sizes. We explored the factors that influence fertility desire among married or cohabiting individuals in Rakai, a rural district in southwestern Uganda. Methods: This cross-sectional study of fertility desire (desire to have another child) was nested in a clusterrandomized demand-creation intervention trial for the promotion of couples’ HIV counseling and testing uptake among married or cohabiting individuals that was conducted in Rakai district between March 1 and April 30, 2015. A total of 1490 married or cohabiting individuals, resident in three study regions with differing background HIV prevalence, were enrolled into the study. Data were collected on socio-demographic, behavioral and fertilityrelated characteristics. We used a modified Poisson regression model to generate prevalence ratio (PR) as a measure of association for factors that were independently associated with fertility desire. We adjusted for clustering at community level and used STATA version 14.0 for all analyses. Results: Overall, fertility desire was high (63.1%, n = 940); higher in men (69.9%, n = 489) than women (57.1%, n = 451). More than three-quarters (78.8%, n = 1174) had 3+ biological children while slightly more than twothirds (68.5%, n = 1020) reported an ideal family size of 5+ children. Only 30% (n = 452) reported that they had attained their desired family size. After adjusting for potential and suspected confounders, the factors that were negatively associated with fertility desire were: age 30–39 (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.78, 0.86) and 40+ years (aPR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.60, 0.71); having six or more biological children (aPR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.80, 0.97); being HIV-positive (aPR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.78, 0.95) and ever use of any family planning methods (aPR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.87, 0.99). Being male (aPR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.33); having primary education (aPR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.44) and having not yet attained the desired family size (aPR = 4.34, 95% CI: 3.50, 5.38) were positively associated with fertility desireItem Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes among Persons Aged 35 to 60 Years in Eastern Uganda: Prevalence and Associated Factors(PLoS ONE, 2013) Mayega, Roy William; Guwatudde, David; Makumbi, Fredrick; Nakwagala, Frederick Nelson; Peterson, Stefan; Tomson, Goran; Ostenson, Claes-GoranOur aim was to estimate the prevalence of abnormal glucose regulation (AGR) (i.e. diabetes and prediabetes) and its associated factors among people aged 35-60 years so as to clarify the relevance of targeted screening in rural Africa. Methods: A population-based survey of 1,497 people (786 women and 711 men) aged 35-60 years was conducted in a predominantly rural Demographic Surveillance Site in eastern Uganda. Participants responded to a lifestyle questionnaire, following which their Body Mass Index (BMI) and Blood Pressure (BP) were measured. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was measured from capillary blood using On-Call® Plus (Acon) rapid glucose meters, following overnight fasting. AGR was defined as FPG ≥6.1mmol L-1 (World Health Organization (WHO) criteria or ≥5.6mmol L-1 (American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria. Diabetes was defined as FPG >6.9mmol L-1, or being on diabetes treatment. Results: The mean age of participants was 45 years for men and 44 for women. Prevalence of diabetes was 7.4% (95%CI 6.1-8.8), while prevalence of pre-diabetes was 8.6% (95%CI 7.3-10.2) using WHO criteria and 20.2% (95%CI 17.5-22.9) with ADA criteria. Using WHO cut-offs, the prevalence of AGR was 2 times higher among obese persons compared with normal BMI persons (Adjusted Prevalence Rate Ratio (APRR) 1.9, 95%CI 1.3-2.8). Occupation as a mechanic, achieving the WHO recommended physical activity threshold, and higher dietary diversity were associated with lower likelihood of AGR (APRR 0.6, 95%CI 0.4-0.9; APRR 0.6, 95%CI 0.4-0.8; APRR 0.5, 95%CI 0.3-0.9 respectively). The direct medical cost of detecting one person with AGR was two US dollars with ADA and three point seven dollars with WHO cut-offs. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of AGR among people aged 35-60 years in this setting. Screening for high risk persons and targeted health education to address obesity, insufficient physical activity and non-diverse diets are necessary.Item The effects of male circumcision on female partners’ genital tract symptoms and vaginal infections in a randomized trial in Rakai, Uganda(American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 2009) Gray, Ronald H.; Kigozi, Godfrey; Serwadda, David; Makumbi, Fredrick; Nalugoda, Fred; Watya, Stephen; Moulton, Laurence; Cheng, Michael Z.; Sewankambo, Nelson K.; Kiwanuka, Noah; Sempijja, Victor; Lutalo, Tom; Kagayii, Joseph; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Ridzon, Renée; Bacon, Melanie; Wawer, Maria J.The objective of the study was to assess effects of male circumcision on female genital symptoms and vaginal infections. STUDY DESIGN: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative men enrolled in a trial were randomized to immediate or delayed circumcision (control arm). Genital symptoms, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and trichomonas were assessed in HIV-negative wives of married participants. Adjusted prevalence risk ratios (adjPRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were assessed by multivariable log-binomial regression, intent-to-treat analyses. RESULTS: A total of 783 wives of control and 825 wives of intervention arm men were comparable at enrollment. BV at enrollment was higher in control (38.3%) than intervention arm spouses (30.5%, P .001). At 1 year follow-up, intervention arm wives reported lower rates of genital ulceration (adjPRR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.63-0.97), but there were no differences in vaginal discharge or dysuria. The risk of trichomonas was reduced in intervention arm wives (adjPRR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.05- 0.98), as were the risks of any BV (adjPRR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.38-0.94) and severe BV (prevalence risk ratios, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.24-0.64). CONCLUSION: Male circumcision reduces the risk of ulceration, trichomonas, and BV in female partners.Item Effects of Medical Male Circumcision (MC) on Plasma HIV Viral Load in HIV+ HAART Nai¨ve Men; Rakai, Uganda(PLoS ONE, 2014) Kigozi, Godfrey; Musoke, Richard; Kighoma, Nehemiah; Watya, Stephen; Serwadda, David; Nalugoda, Fred; Kiwanuka, Noah; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Tobian, Aaron; Makumbi, Fredrick; Galiwango, Ronald Moses; Sewankambo, Nelson; Nkale, James; Kigozi Nalwoga, Grace; Anyokorit, Margaret; Lutalo, Tom; Henry Gray, Ronald; Wawer, Maria JoanMedical male circumcision (MC) of HIV-infected men may increase plasma HIV viral load and place female partners at risk of infection. We assessed the effect of MC on plasma HIV viral load in HIV-infected men in Rakai, Uganda. 195 consenting HIV-positive, HAART naı¨ve men aged 12 and above provided blood for plasma HIV viral load testing before surgery and weekly for six weeks and at 2 and 3 months post surgery. Data were also collected on baseline social demographic characteristics and CD4 counts. Change in log10 plasma viral load between baseline and follow-up visits was estimated using paired t tests and multivariate generalized estimating equation (GEE).Item Erratum to: Trends in HIV counseling and testing uptake among married individuals in Rakai, Uganda(BMC public health, 2013) Matovu, Joseph K.B.; Denison, Julie; Wanyenze, Rhoda K.; Ssekasanvu, Joseph; Makumbi, Fredrick; Ovuga, Emilio; McGrath, Nuala; Serwadda, DavidFollowing publication of this article [1], it has come to our attention that the total number of observations (21,798) has been mistakenly cited as the number of respondents in some paragraphs within the paper. This number appears within the abstract, in the analysis sub-section, within the opening paragraph of the results section, and in the section on HIV prevalence. The number that should have been cited is 11,268 - the total number of respondents in the dataset. 21,798 refers to the total number of observations over the study period. The percentages estimated out of 21,798 have been recalculated. Of the 11,268 individuals enrolled in this study, 81.2% (9,220) were in monogamous marital unions while 18.2% (2,048) were in polygamous marital unions. Of those in polygamous marital unions (n = 2,048), 52.8% were females while 47.2% were males. Thirty eight per cent of the participants (4,236) reported that they had ever received HCT (i.e. individual or couples’ HCT). Overall HIV prevalence was 11.9% (1,337 of 11,268). However, it is important to note that since serial cross-sectional analyses of each of the 4 study visits were used under consideration, the findings shown in Tables 1 and 2 as well as Fig. 2 (A,B,C) are not affected by this error.Item Frequency and distribution patterns of opportunistic infections associated with HIV/AIDS in Uganda(BMC research notes, 2016) Rubaihayo, John; Tumwesigye, Nazarius M.; Konde‑Lule, Joseph; Wamani, Henry; Nakku‑Joloba, Edith; Makumbi, FredrickWe conducted a study to assess the frequency and distribution patterns of selected opportunistic infections (OIs) and opportunistic cancers (OCs) in different geographical areas before and after HAART in Uganda. This was a cross-sectional serial review of observation data for adult HIV positive patients (≥15 years) enrolled with the AIDS support organization (TASO) in Uganda covering the period from January 2001 to December 2013. Both AIDS defining OIs/OCs and non-AIDS defining OIs were analyzed. The study period was structured into three time periods: “pre- HAART” (2001–2003), “early-HAART” (2004–2008) and “late-HAART” (2009–2013). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data by time period, age, gender and geographical location. Chi squared test used to test the significance of the differences in proportions. A total of 108,619 HIV positive patients were included in the analysis. 64% (64,240) were female with median age of 33 years (IQR 27–40). The most frequent OIs before HAART were oral candida (34.6%) diarrhoeal infection (<1 month) (30.6%), geohelminths (26.5%), Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) (17.7%), malaria (15.1%) and bacterial pneumonia (11.2%). In early HAART (2004–2008), the most frequent OIs were geohelminths (32.4%), diarrhoeal infection (25.6%), TB (18.2%) and oral candida (18.1%). In late HAART (2009–2013), the most frequent OIs were geohelminths (23.5%) and diarrhoeal infection (14.3%). By gender, prevalence was consistently higher in women (p < 0.05) before and after HAART for geohelminths, candidiasis, diarrhoeal infection, bacterial pneumonia and genital ulcer disease but consistently higher in men for TB and Kaposi’s sarcoma (p < 0.05). By age, prevalence was consistently higher in older age groups (>30 years) before and after HAART for oral candida and TB (p < 0.05) and higher in young age groups (<30 years) for malaria and genital ulcers (p < 0.05). By geographical location, prevalence was consistently higher in Eastern and Northern Uganda before and after HAART for diarrheal infection and geohelminths (p < 0.0001). The frequency and pattern of OIs before and after HAART differs by gender, age and geographical location. Prevalence of geohelminths and diarrhea infection(<1 month) remains high especially in Northern and Eastern Uganda even after HAART and should therefore be given special attention in HIV/AIDS care programmes in these settings.Item Health-related quality of life in epilepsy patients receiving anti-epileptic drugs at National Referral Hospitals in Uganda: a cross-sectional study(Health and Quality of Life Outcomes, 2014) Nabukenya, Anne M.; Matovu, Joseph K. B.; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Wanyenze, Rhoda K.; Makumbi, FredrickEpilepsy is a devastating disorder that impacts on patients’ quality of life, irrespective of use of anti epileptic drugs (AEDs). This study estimates the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and its associated predictors among epilepsy patients receiving AEDs. Methods: A total of 175 epilepsy patients already receiving AED for at least 3 months were randomly selected and interviewed from mental clinics at Mulago and Butabika national referral hospitals in Uganda between May - July 2011. A HRQOL index, the primary outcome, was constructed using items from Quality Of Life in Epilepsy Inventory (QOLIE-31) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaires. The internal consistency and adequacy of these items was also computed using Cronbach's alpha and Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin tests. Partial correlations were used to evaluate the contribution of the health dimensions (mental, psychological, social, physical functioning and emotional well being) and, multiple linear regressions to determine factors independently associated with HRQOL. Results: Just about half of the respondents (54%) were males, and nearly two thirds (62%) had received AEDs for at least 12 months. The average age was 26.6 years (SD = 11.1). The overall HRQOL mean score was 58 (SD = 13) on a scale of 0–100. The average scores of different dimensions or subscales ranged from 41 (physical) to 65 (psychological). At least three quarters (75%) of all subscales had good internal consistency and adequacy. The largest variations in the overall HRQOL were explained by social and mental functioning; each accounting for about 30% of the difference in the HRQOL but seizure control features explained a little (6%) variation. Factors negatively associated with HRQOL were poly-therapy (−1.16, p = 0.01) and frequency of seizures (−2.29, p = 0.00). Other factors associated with overall HRQOL included drug side effects, sex, marital status and education. Duration on AEDs was not a significant predictor of HRQOL. Conclusion: The HRQOL for epilepsy patients on AEDs is very low. The predictors of low HRQOL were socio factors (marital status, education) and drug side effects, frequency of seizure, and type of therapy.Item Hepatitis B Prevalence among Pregnant Women in Central and West Nile regions of Uganda: Is there a Need to prioritize Prevention of Mother to Child hepatitis B transmission?(Research Square, 2019) Nankya-Mutyoba, Joan; Aizire, Jim; Makumbi, Fredrick; Atuyambe, Lynn; Kirk, Gregory; Ocama, PonsianoIntroduction Within sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the burden of chronic hepatitis B (HBV) is unacceptably high in several countries including Uganda. Elimination of HBV in the context of inadequate resources and several competing health issues, faces challenges including limited data on disease burden in important population sub-groups. In order to optimize available resources, reliable data on HBV among pregnant women is useful to guide policies on prevention. This study estimated HBV prevalence and related factors among pregnant women in Central and West Nile regions of Uganda Methods Using a twostage sampling approach, we selected a random sample of 310 pregnant women, 18 years or older from public health facility antenatal clinics in central and west Nile, North-western Uganda. Consenting women were interviewed to obtain data on HBV vaccination status, HIV status, selected sexual and lifestyle factors and socio-demographic information. In addition, they underwent phlebotomy to obtain blood for testing for hepatitis B surface antigen, (HBsAg) antibodies to the surface antigen (anti-HBs), and antibodies to the core (anti-HBc), as indicators of chronic infection, prior exposure, and susceptibility (anti-HBs <10 mIU /mL), respectively. Results Out of 310 women, prevalence of chronic HBV infection was 6.2%. Prevalence in the West Nile region was notably higher than in the Central region (11.0% vs. 1.3%), p<0.001. In both regions, majority of pregnant women (61% West Nile region, 76% Central region) were still susceptible to HBV. Overall, proportion who had been tested for HBV and those who reported having been vaccinated was only 5.8% and 11.3% respectively. Conclusion Our findings reveal the burden of HBV in Ugandan pregnant women is still high, with marked regional differences in disease prevalence, and poor levels of HBV testing and vaccination. These data suggest that HBV prevention programs and policies in resource-limited settings like Uganda may need to consider the differential HBV prevalence, as optimizing HBV prevention services in higher prevalence regions may provide greater impact and thereby align with the WHO recommendation on HBV elimination strategy in SSA.Item Hepatitis B virus perceptions and health seeking behaviors among pregnant women in Uganda: implications for prevention and policy(BMC health services research, 2019) Nankya-Mutyoba, Joan; Aizire, Jim; Makumbi, Fredrick; Ocama, Ponsiano; Kirk, Gregory D.Item HIV status disclosure and associated outcomes among pregnant women enrolled in antiretroviral therapy in Uganda: a mixed methods study(Reproductive health, 2017) Naigino, Rose; Makumbi, Fredrick; Mukose, Aggrey; Buregyeya, Esther; Arinaitwe, Jim; Musinguzi, Joshua; Wanyenze, Rhoda K.Disclosure of HIV positive status to sexual partners is promoted by HIV prevention programs including those targeting the prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Among other benefits, disclosure may enhance spousal support and reduce stigma, violence and discrimination. HIV status disclosure and associated outcomes were assessed among a cohort of women, newly initiating lifelong antiretroviral therapy in Uganda between October 2013 and May 2014. Methods: This was a mixed method study, drawing data froma prospective cohort study of 507 HIV positive pregnant women on lifelong antiretroviral therapy, who were followed for four months to determine disclosure and itsoutcomes. Women were recruited from three facilities for the cohort study; in addition, fifty-seven women were recruited to participate in qualitative interviews from six facilities. Factors associated with spousal support and negative outcomes were determined using random-effects logistic regression in two separate models, with prevalence ratio as measure of association. In-depth interviews were used to document experiences with disclosure of HIV status. Results: Overall HIV status disclosure to at least one person was high [(375/507), 83.7%]. Nearly three-quarters [(285/389), 73.3%], had disclosed to their spouse by the fourth month of follow up post-enrolment. Among married women,spousal supportwas high at the first 330/407 (81.1%) and second follow-up 320/389 (82.2%). The majority of women who reported spousal support for either antenatal care or HIV-related care services had disclosed their HIV status totheir spouses (adj.PR = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.02–1.34). However, no significant differences were observed in the proportion of self-reported negative outcomes by HIV status disclosure (adj.PR = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.56–1.42). Qualitative findings highlighted stigma and fear of negative outcomes as the major barriers to disclosure. Conclusion: HIV status disclosure to partners by pregnant women on lifelong antiretroviral therapy was associated with increased spousal support, but was impeded by fear of adverse outcomes such as stigma, discrimination and violence. Interventions to reduce negative outcomes could enhance HIV status disclosure.Item Individual-level transitions in modern contraceptive need categories among women in Rakai, SW Uganda(Annual Meeting, 2016) Lutalo, Tom; Makumbi, Fredrick; Guwatudde, David; Song, XiaoyuUganda has one of the highest annual population growth rate in the world, at 3 percent, with a Total Fertility Rate of 6.2 children per woman as of 2014. The Uganda Demographic and Health Survey of 2011 showed that only 26% of currently married women use modern contraception and 34% have an unmet need for family planning. Most cross sectional estimates of unmet need do not allow determination of within-individual changes over time in women’s contraceptive needs, and its determinants. Understanding and monitoring need for contraception and its adoption by those in need are important for health and development planningItem Intimate partner violence among HIV positive women in care - results from a national survey, Uganda 2016(BMC women's health, 2019) Ndugwa Kabwama, Steven; Bukenya, Justine; Matovu, Joseph K. B.; Gwokyalya, Violet; Makumbi, Fredrick; Beyeza-Kashesya, Jolly; Mugerwa, Shaban; Baptist Bwanika, John; Wanyenze, Rhoda K.Women remain disproportionally affected by the HIV/ AIDS epidemic because of sociocultural factors including violence perpetrated by intimate partners. Among HIVpositive (HIV+) women, intimate partner violence (IPV) affects engagement in care and reproductive health outcomes. We analyzed data from a national survey to estimate the prevalence of IPV among HIV+ women in care and associated factors. Methods: The study was conducted among 5198 HIV+ women in care. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, self-reported couple HIV status, mutual HIV status disclosure and IPV. IPV was assessed by asking participants whether their current husband or partner ever hit, slapped, kicked or did anything to hurt them physically, and whether their current husband or partner ever physically forced them to have intercourse or perform any sexual acts against their will. Women who responded “yes” were classified as having ever experienced IPV. Modified Poisson regression was used to identify factors associated with experiencing IPV. Results: Of 5198 HIV+ women, 1664 (32.1%) had ever experienced physical violence, 1466 (28.3%) had ever experienced sexual violence and 2290 (44.2%) had ever experienced any IPV. Compared with women in relationships where the woman and their male partner were of the same age, women in relationships where the partner was ≥1 year younger were more likely to ever experience IPV (Prevalence risk ratio [PRR] = 1.43, 95% Confidence Interval [95%CI]: 1.10–1.71), as were women in relationships where the partner was < 10 years older (PRR = 1.20, 95%CI: 1.00–1.43) or ≥ 10 years older (PRR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.05–1.64). Compared with women who did not have biological children, women with 3–4 biological children were more likely to have ever experienced IPV (PRR = 1.27 95%CI: 1.00–1.59) as were those with ≥5 biological children (PRR = 1.34, 95%CI: 1.06–1.71). Compared with women in sero-concordant relationships, women in sero-discordant relationships were less likely to ever experience IPV (PRR = 0.87 95%CI: 0.78–0.98).Item Knowledge and perceptions of brucellosis in the pastoral communities adjacent to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda(BMC Public Health, 2014) Kansiime, Catherine; Mugisha, Anthony; Makumbi, Fredrick; Mugisha, Samuel; Rwego, Innocent B.; Sempa, Joseph; Kiwanuka, Suzanne N.; Asiimwe, Benon B.; Rutebemberwa, ElizeusBrucellosis is one of the most common zoonotic infections globally. Lack of knowledge about brucellosis may affect the health-seeking behavior of patients, thus leading to sustained transmission in these communities. Our study assessed knowledge and perceptions of brucellosis among pastoral communities adjacent to Lake Mburo National Park (LMNP), Kiruhura District, Uganda. Methods: A community cross-sectional questionnaire survey involving 371 randomly selected household heads from three sub-counties neighboring LMNP were interviewed between June and August 2012. Data collected included communities’ knowledge on causes, symptoms, transmission, treatment, prevention and risk factors of brucellosis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to explore strength of association between overall knowledge of brucellosis and various individual factors using odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Only 70 (19%) knew the symptoms of brucellosis in animals, and three quarters (279, 75.5%) mentioned joint and muscle pain as a common symptom in humans. Almost all participants (370, 99.3%) had ever heard about brucellosis, majority (311, 84.7%) believed it affects all sexes and two thirds (67.7%) of the respondents believed close proximity to wildlife contributes to the presence of the disease. Almost all (352, 95.4%) knew that brucellosis in humans could be treatable using modern drugs. The main routes of infection in humans such as consumption of unpasteurized dairy products were known by 97% (360/371); eating of half-cooked meat by 91.4% and eating contaminated pasture in animals by 97.4%. There was moderate overall knowledge of brucellosis 197 (53.1%). Factors associated with higher overall knowledge were being agro-pastoralists (aOR: 2.08, CI: 1.17-3.71) compared to pure pastoralists while those who reported that the disease was a health problem (aOR: 0.18, CI: 0.06-0.56) compared to those who said it was not were less likely to be knowledgeable. Conclusions: There was moderate overall knowledge of human and animal brucellosis among the participants. Majority of the participants believed that close proximity to wildlife contributes to the presence of the disease in the area. There is a need for collaboration between the public health, veterinary and wildlife sectors to provide health education on brucellosis for better management of the disease in the communities.