MIHER and UEM field research increases medic care in Neurocysticercosis

The Mozambican Institute for Health and Educational Research – MIHER and Universidade Eduardo Mondlane – Faculty of Medicine, conducted a comprehensive field research about Neurocysticercosis in Mocuba district, Zambézia province, Centre of Mozambique. In response to the implementation of the study, there was an increase in patient flow and consultation of patients with epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders.

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is considered the most common helminth infection of human nervous system and the most frequent preventable cause of epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa.

The study was conducted by a multidisciplinary team and coordinated by professor EmíliaNoormamadcollected data in Munhiba, Namagoa, Municipio de Mocuba, Murrotone, Muaquiua, Namanjavira, Alto Benfica, Sassamanja and Mugeba localities or villages.

These study hopes to create evidence for the policy makers on development of strategies for control of Neurocysticercosis in Mozambique. The follow-up of people recruited during the community baseline study consisted in selecting those with epilepsyand or with Ag-ELISA or Western blot antibodies positive and send to Quelimane Central Hospital for clinical study including neurological examination and CT scansto search for any brain lesion consistent with NCC. After assisting all patients with epileptic problems and other disorders, medication was prescribed and purchased at the same hospital.

During a period of baseline study, political figures at the Provincial and district level were involved. Theyhave increased the importance and attention of primary care treatment and everything that is linked to the preventionof taenia/cysticercosis.

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