Browsing by Author "Mulogo, Edgar Mugema"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    A qualitative study of knowledge, experiences, and healthcare needs of people living with lymphedema in Kamwenge District, rural Uganda
    (Springer Nature, 2025-10-27) Mwesigye, Vicent; Tebulwa, Joanita Berytah; Musinguzi, Benson; Agaba, Bosco Bekita; Muyambi, Raul; Asiimwe, Gerevasio Kalemire; Zamarano, Henry; Birungi, Caroline; Bagenda, Charles Nkubi; Bajunirwe, Francis; Bazira, Joel; Itabangi, Herbert; Byarugaba, Frederick; Mulogo, Edgar Mugema
    Background Lymphedema is a long-term, disabling condition caused by dysfunction of the lymphatic system, yet it continues to receive little attention in low-resource settings. In rural areas such as Kamwenge District, Uganda, those affected endure ongoing physical symptoms including swelling, pain, and reduced mobility alongside significant emotional and social challenges. Stigma, cultural misunderstandings, and poor access to timely diagnosis and effective care further hinder their well-being. While global neglected tropical disease (NTD) programs have made progress, many vulnerable communities remain overlooked. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of lymphedema patients and caregivers in Kamwenge, focusing on local beliefs, knowledge gaps, and healthcare barriers to inform context-specific and stigma-sensitive interventions. Methods A community-based qualitative study design was employed. Data were collected through five focus group discussions (FGDs) involving lymphedema patients and caregivers, and seven key informant interviews (KIIs) with local health officials, community leaders, and religious figures. Participants were purposively sampled from Rukunyu Hospital and surrounding communities to capture diverse perspectives. Data were transcribed, translated, and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach. Results Seven key themes emerged: (1) patients’ daily struggles with pain, dependence, and economic hardship; (2) stigma leading to social exclusion; (3) gaps in knowledge and culturally influenced misconceptions about causes and treatment; (4) gender-specific vulnerabilities such as abandonment and psychological distress; (5) weak healthcare infrastructure and limited access; (6) reliance on informal coping strategies including herbal remedies, faith, and peer support; and (7) institutional deficiencies alongside community-driven recommendations for improved care and prevention. Despite some health education efforts, misinformation and stigma remain widespread, and affected individuals are often excluded from social support programs. Conclusion Lymphedema in Kamwenge District is a complex issue intersecting health, social stigma, and systemic weaknesses. Urgent, community-focused interventions are critical to closing knowledge gaps, enhancing healthcare services, reducing stigma, and integrating lymphedema management into national health policies.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Burden of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase- producing Enterobacteriaceae among cancer patients in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
    (Microbiology Society, 2026-06-12) Zamarano, Henry; Musinguzi, Benson; Twinomujuni, Muzafaru; Khakasa, Catherine; Mwesigye, Vicent; Muhwezi, Ivan; Mulogo, Edgar Mugema; Natumanya, Deborah; Kawuma, Simon; Orikiriza, Patrick; Iramiot, Jacob Stanley
    Background. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-PE) exacerbate infections in cancer patients in settings where antimicrobial resistance threatens health outcomes. This study estimated the prevalence of ESBL-PE among cancer patients in Africa from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2024. Methods. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL and Global Health for observational studies reporting ESBL-PE prevalence in cancer patients. Studies published in English from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2024 were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data using standardized forms and assessed the quality of articles using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Pooled prevalence was calculated using a random-effects model in RStudio v4.4.2, with heterogeneity assessed with the I² statistic and publication bias assessed with funnel plots and Egger’s test. Results. Twelve studies from 9 African countries, involving a total of 1,252 cancer patients and 643 identified events, were included. The pooled prevalence of ESBL-PE was 49.4% (95% CI: 36.0–62.9%, I²=88.3%, P<0.001). Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae predominated. There was no evidence of publication bias based on funnel plot symmetry, Egger’s test (t=−0.35, P=0.73) and trim-and-fill analysis (no studies imputed; adjusted estimate unchanged). Heterogeneity was substantial (I²=88.3%) with a wide 95% prediction interval (22.7–76.5%). Leave-one-out sensitivity analysis confirmed estimate stability (~49%) with persistently high heterogeneity (I² range: 81.4–89.4%). Conclusions. The high ESBL-PE prevalence in African cancer patients signals a critical public health issue, necessitating enhanced surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship and intentional infection control measures.