African Journal of Zoonotic Diseases (Vet/Public Health) | 14 January 2007

Community Health Worker Programmes for Tuberculosis Prevention and Management in Rural Kenya: A Five-Year Evaluation

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18843174

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of community health worker (CHW) programmes in rural Kenya for preventing and managing tuberculosis (TB). CHWs play a crucial role in TB control, but their impact has not been extensively evaluated. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including baseline surveys, follow-up assessments, and qualitative interviews with CHWs and community members. Data on TB cases were collected using a standardised questionnaire. CHW programmes resulted in a reduction of TB incidence by 20% (95% CI: -18%, -23%) compared to the control group over five years, indicating significant preventive efficacy. The CHW programme demonstrated substantial benefits in reducing TB prevalence and mortality rates. However, further research is needed to refine strategies for wider implementation. Communities should be involved in designing and implementing tailored CHW programmes that address specific needs and challenges. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for sustaining these interventions. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p<em>i)=\beta</em>0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.