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Background
Tackling the high non-communicable disease (NCD) burden among Syrian refugees poses a challenge to humanitarian actors and host countries. Current response priorities are the identification and integration of key interventions for NCD care into humanitarian programs as well as sustainable financing. To provide evidence for effective NCD...
Context in source publication
Context 1
... conducted a cross-sectional household survey in Irbid governorate in northern Jordan ( Fig. 1) using two-stage cluster methodology. In the first stage, clusters were selected from inhabited areas situated in the study area using sampling with probability of allocation pro- portional to the respective refugee population size of each village. We used estimated population data from UNHCR-registered Syrian refugees living in Irbid ...
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Background
Older refugees face particular challenges because their health and social needs are largely overlooked in humanitarian programmes, policies and research. The few studies available have shown that older refugees suffer from a high prevalence of non-communicable diseases, including mental health problems, increased social isolation and pov...
Background
There has been increasing focus on tackling the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCD) in crisis settings. The complex and protracted crisis in Syria is unfolding against a background of increasing NCD burden. This study investigated factors influencing implementation of NCD healthcare in Syria.
Methods
This is a qualitative...
Background
The Syrian conflict has created the worst humanitarian crisis of our time with approximately half of Syria’s pre-war population killed or forced to flee their homes. The current study aimed to analyze peer-reviewed literature published on Syrian refugees and displaced people.
Methods
A bibliometric methodology was implemented using Scop...
Introduction
Since the start of the Syrian conflict in 2011, Jordan and Lebanon have hosted large refugee populations, with a high pre-conflict burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). We aimed to explore NCD service provision to Syrian refugees in these two host countries and to identify lessons learned that may inform the global response to th...
Introduction
Globally, a record number of people are affected by humanitarian crises caused by conflict and natural disasters. Many such populations live in settings where epidemiological transition is underway. Following the United Nations high level meeting on non-communicable diseases, the global commitment to Universal Health Coverage and needs...
Citations
... However, more than half of the Bangladesh refugees were found to have pre-hypertension according to their systolic (55.8%) and diastolic (68.3%) blood pressures [12]. A study among northern Jordan refugees showed that the prevalence of hypertension was 14.0% [13]. Since many people with diabetes remain undiagnosed, blood glucose is used as a measure of diabetes [14]. ...
... Our results indicate that 26.1% and 46.2% of the participants were classified as having hypertension stage I and II, which is higher compared to the findings of [11][12][13] showing that 17.2% of Syrians, 14% of northern Jordan, and 33.7% Bangladeshi refugees are hypertensive. The much higher hypertension prevalence in our cohort shows a possible lack of awareness of the consequences of hypertension, highlighting the importance of screening for hypertension among refugees for early detection and treatment. ...
Background
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading contributor to mortality and morbidity worldwide, with refugees considered more susceptible to NCDs. Refugees often encounter difficulties in accessing healthcare, resulting in delayed diagnostic assessment and treatment of mental disorders and NCDs, leading to the deterioration of the condition. The study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of risk factors for NCDs and mental health among South African Durban-based refugees.
Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted among 121 randomly selected South African Durban-based refugees. Data on the metabolic risk factors for NCDs were collected using a modified version of the World Health Organisation (WHO) STEPwise approach to (NCDs) surveillance (STEPS) instrument. Participants' mental health disorders were determined with a Global Mental Health Assessment Tool-Primary Care Version questionnaire.
Results
A significant 38.80% of participants had normal BMI [x ² (5, n=47) = 82.55, p<.001], 24.0% were overweight [x ² (5, n=29) = 82.55, p<.001], 25.6% were obese class l [x ² (5, n=31) = 82.55, p<.001]. A significant 77.1% [x ² (2, n=64) = 76.79, p<.001] of the participants had desirable cholesterol levels, and 62.3% [x ² (2, n=71) = 44.57, p<.001] had normal fasting glucose levels. A significant 26.1% [x ² (4, n=31) = 64.82, p<.001] and 46.2% [x ² (4, n=55) = 64.82, p<.001] were classified as having hypertension stage I and II, respectively. A non-significant 32.2% and 25.0% experienced depression and anxiety.
Conclusions
The prevalence of hypertension and high BMI levels combined with mental disorders underscores the importance of healthcare service delivery to this vulnerable population in SA.
... Among these, COPD (20%) is the most common, followed by chronic liver disease (13.1%), pulmonary TB (5.5%), communityacquired pneumonia (4.1%), and hepatocellular carcinoma (3.4%) 9,10 . Accidental injury, injury due to falls or electrocution, or injury due to snakebites also presented in 10.4% of the population 11,12 . ...
Background: Forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (FDMNs) are one of the most persecuted minorities groups, suffering from an abundance of health issues. They are exposed to a wide range of stressful events that are associated with adverse health consequences, which leads to decreased life expectancy due to increased morbidity and mortality. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey among conveniently selected 203 healthcare workers (HCWs) to assess the health state and barriers to the provision of health services to FDMNs in the Kutupalong and Balukhali camps at Ukhiya Upazilla, Cox's Bazar. Data were collected by face-to-face interviews by using a semi-structured questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the HCW was 29.2±3.6 years and mean service duration was 5.8±4.1 months. Most of the health facilities provided treatment for CDs (62.5%) and NCDs (80.0%). About one-third of the facilities had no laboratory facilities for diagnosing CDs (32.2%) and NCDs (40.0%). More than half of HCCs (55.0%) were maintain sterilization processes, such as boiling (90.9%), chemical components (45.5%) and an autoclave machine (13.6%). One-fourth of the HCWs (25.6%) get training during their joining times and above two-thirds of the HCWs (69.5%) received training after joining their service. The most frequently cited challenges faced during the provision of health services were transportation barriers (96.4%), language barriers (87.2%), scarcity of drugs (67.5%), vague disease histories (60.9%), unfavorable weather (59.4%) and electricity problems (44.7%). Conclusion: This study suggests that an organized primary healthcare service, specially designed for communicable and non-communicable disease prevention and management is necessary to improve health condition of FDMNs.
... PLWNCDs in LMIC settings including in fragile and humanitarian settings, often face high out-of-pocket spending on NCD medicines, diagnostic and monitoring tests, specialist consultations, MHPSS and physical therapy -where these are available (Witter et al., 2020). Additionally, low health literacy, coupled with challenges in sustainable access to healthy food, acceptable physical activity options and limited MHPSS-based disease coping strategies in crisis settings further influence their experience of increasing disease severity and complications (Kehlenbrink et al., 2023;Boulle et al., 2019;Rehr et al., 2018;Zablith et al., 2021). Cumulatively, these dynamics constrain the ability to achieve continuous, comprehensive and cost-efficient care for PLWNCDs, and contribute to the rates of preventable NCD-related morbidities and mortality in humanitarian settings Bausch et al., 2021;Witter et al., 2020;Patel et al., 2022;P Harris et al., 2022). ...
In this commentary, we advocate for the wider implementation of integrated care models for NCDs within humanitarian preparedness, response, and resilience efforts. Since experience and evidence on integrated NCD care in humanitarian settings is limited, we discuss potential benefits, key lessons learned from other settings, and lessons from the integration of other conditions that may be useful for stakeholders considering an integrated model of NCD care. We also introduce our ongoing project in North Lebanon as a case example currently undergoing parallel tracks of program implementation and process evaluation that aims to strengthen the evidence base on implementing an integrated NCD care model in a crisis setting.
... In Jordan, data from the World Bank showed a drop in the rural population from 49% in 1960 to 16% in 2015, constituting 8.8% of the total population in 2019 [30]. Rural populations face geographic barriers to reaching cancer diagnostic and treatment facilities that are concentrated in major cities [31]. Long distances and transport costs contribute to lower utilization of services and higher physician turnover [10]. ...
Simple Summary
In the face of significant hurdles stemming from conflicts and resource constraints, Jordan has emerged as an exemplary paradigm, solidifying cancer care both locally and regionally. Despite the positive progress being made, a significant obstacle is emerging in the form of increasing rates of cancer, which is representative of a larger upsurge in non-communicable diseases. However, a thorough grasp of the various contributing factors is still lacking. Therefore, we aimed to carefully examine and discuss the current identified barriers that are hindering the achievement of optimal cancer care in Jordan.
Abstract
This narrative review explores the multifaceted barriers hindering access to quality cancer care in Jordan. A literature-based narrative review was undertaken to explore the current identified barriers to cancer care in Jordan. Four databases were searched using relevant keywords to identify key insights on barriers and proposed solutions. Key challenges and potential solutions were identified based on evidence from studies, reports, and initiatives. Medical services and infrastructure exhibit centralized disparities, impacting rural and underserved areas. Human resources shortages, geopolitical instability, and quality management issues pose significant challenges. Public awareness campaigns face hurdles in addressing the tobacco epidemic and late-stage diagnosis. Socioeconomic disparities, particularly in health insurance and urban–rural divides, further compound barriers. Refugees encounter distinct challenges, including late-stage diagnosis, financial barriers, and psychological distress. Despite multiple challenges, Jordan presents a model for regional development and health equity. This study not only contributes to improving cancer care in Jordan but also offers a roadmap for policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and researchers in similar contexts globally. Government initiatives, financial aspects, and proposed policy measures are examined as potential solutions. Recommendations include coordinated prevention strategies, enhanced screening uptake, training programs, the equitable distribution of facilities, and policy directives aligned with global commitments. The role of digital technologies, telemedicine, and community engagement models is emphasized.
... In 2012, the age-standardized mortality rates for NCDs were 572.7 and 640.3 deaths per 100,000 populations in Syria and Jordan, respectively. These rates are over 10 times higher than the mortality rates attributed to communicable diseases [27]. ...
Background
Chronic disease problems are globally, regionally, and locally on the rise, marking that non-communicable chronic diseases (NCCDs) are never again associated with wealth. NCCDs are to blame for 70% of the entire deaths in the whole world. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of and factors associated with chronic diseases among academics at Mutah University-Jordan.
Methods
A cross-sectional approach is used. The study sample consists of the all academics teaching in all faculties at Mutah University. A 2-part self-administered and structured questionnaire of the participants’ demographic data and the Sample Questionnaire Chronic Disease developed by Stanford Patient Education Research Center were distributed to collate data.
Results
The five conditions with the highest degree of prevalence among the participants were hypertension (19.6%), DM (17.5%), Rheumatoid (14.2%), Cardiac diseases (12.6%), and respiratory disorders (11.3%).
Conclusions
Smoking and being overweight were the major risk factors observed among academics and were more prevalent among men than women. Healthy lifestyle programs encouraging appropriate dietary habits and physical activity are strongly recommended in the universities.
... Background Rates of forced displacement continue to rise, reaching a staggering 89.3 million by the end of 2021 [1]. Lowand middle-income countries (LMICs) host 83% of the world's refugees and face many challenges in supporting their refugees' needs [1][2][3]. Despite increasing attention to refugee health research in LMICs, the needs of aging/ older refugees are understudied [4]. ...
Background
Mounting evidence is revealing disparities in cognitive function and heightened dementia risk among refugees, yet research in this area remains scant. Despite bearing most of the world’s refugee burden, limited-resource countries like Jordan are facing challenges when dealing with refugee health. There is a lack of research on the attitudes toward dementia and the cognitive healthcare gaps among refugees in Jordan.
Methods
32 older (≥ 55 years) Syrian refugees resettled in Jordan were recruited through a local community-based organization and interviewed in four focus groups (2 female and 2 male groups). Interviews were transcribed and translated, then coded using inductive thematic analysis.
Results
Mean age of the sample was 60.1 years and 53.1% were female. Only 34.4% rated their memory as good or excellent. Themes were organized using the socioecological model: 1) At the individual level, participants believed high levels of stress, including low socioeconomic status, poor health, and traumatic history from their refugee experience increased their dementia risk. 2) Interpersonally, there is a fear of dementia due to the possible impact and burden on loved ones, particularly with the stigma surrounding dementia. 3) At the community level, participants noted that resettlement in Jordan – with a shared language, religion, and culture – offered protective effects due to facilitated access to social connection, information, and mental health self-care. 4) At the institution and policy level, participants believed older refugees faced restrictive policies for economic aid, healthcare, and employment, presenting a significant barrier to healthy aging.
Conclusions
Findings from this study are the first to examine the attitudes of Syrian refugees in Jordan toward dementia and cognitive aging. These results could provide essential data inclusive of refugees as Jordan develops its National Dementia Plan. Investing in dementia awareness interventions and age-friendly neighborhoods may benefit aging refugees in limited-resources settings.
... However, this study concerns family members of people with heart diseases in order to prevent fatality and morbidity before the patient is transferred to the hospital for emergency treatment. Importantly, family members are the closest person who can treat immediately and do emergency intervention (Rehr et al., 2018). Therefore, this study aims to examine the effectiveness of first aid knowledge on BLS among family members with heart diseases in Bengkulu City. ...
An increasing mortality rate in many places including highways, workplaces, schools, or even in the home mostly occurred because of low knowledge of first aid with the proper and correct procedure. The first aid knowledge for heart diseases patient remains low among family members to prevent the worsening condition of the patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of first aid education on basic life support (BLS) among family members with heart disease in Lingkar Timur Primary Health Care, Bengkulu City. The design of this study was a quasi-experiment with a pre and post-test. Totally 40 respondents who contributed to this study who selected by simple random sampling. The intervention has been done by giving the demonstration, and audio-visual knowledge about basic life survey (BLS). The average age of the respondents was 30.23 years, more than half of the respondents were female by 26 people (65%), and more than half of the respondents graduated from senior high school by 21 people (52.5%). Most of the respondents work as an entrepreneur by 10 people (25%). Most of the respondents' income was <Rp 1,000,000 by 16 people (40%). The results showed that there was an effect of education with audio-visual and BLS demonstration on the skills of doing BLS (p-value 0.000 < 0.05). Training effects increasing the knowledge and skills of BLS respondents. Emergency training needs to be given to all people as a form of early awareness of emergency conditions
... Previous literature has explored refugee population utilization of host country health services including for non-communicable, chronic, or surgical conditions such as cancer, where barriers such as cost are often cited [16][17][18][19][20]. Other scholarship has focused on participatory assessments-that is beneficiary perspectives-of general health services [21]. ...
Globally, refugees number over 25 million. Yet, little attention has been paid to how refugees access referral health care in host countries. By referral, I mean the process by which a patient deemed too sick to be managed at a lower-level health facility is transferred to a higher-level facility with more resources to provide care. In this article, I provide reflections on referral health care from the perspective of refugees living in exile in Tanzania. Through qualitative methods of interviews, participant observation, and clinical record review, I trace how global refugee policy on referral health care manifests itself in the lives of refugees locally in a country like Tanzania that has strict policies and limitations on freedom of movement. In this space, refugees experience complex medical problems, many of which began prior to or during their flight to Tanzania. Many refugees indeed are approved to be referred to a Tanzanian hospital for further treatment. Others are denied care or pursue other therapeutic itineraries outside the formal system. But, all are subject to policies of Tanzania that restrict freedom of movement and almost all experience delays on several levels (e.g., waiting for a referral, waiting at the referral hospital, waiting for follow-up appointments). In the end, refugees in this context emerge not simply as passive beings upon which biopower is enacted, but also as active agents, sometimes circumventing a system of power in their pursuit of their right to health, all in the context of strict policy that seeks to enforce state security over one's right to health. In the process, refugee experiences with referral health care become a window into the larger politics of refugee hosting in Tanzania in the present day.
... Out of 8,041 patients with non-communicable diseases, 17.6% had diabetes without or with hypertension, and 10.1% had both, according to one study. These patients had a low level of literacy and had trouble taking their medications as prescribed [50]. According to one study, ineffective programs to increase patient adherence to treatment and lessons to prevent comorbidities were to blame for the high prevalence of diabetes with comorbidities in Syrian refugee women [9]. ...
... Studies often indicate that refugee camps suffer chronically from various forms of fragility, including weak health governance and limited financial and administrative capacities (Martin, 2015;Peteet, 2011;Agier, 2010 More than half of the research participants (22) explained that the treatment services for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) had been significantly disrupted during the COVID-19 crisis in Jordan. The most commonly explored non-communicable diseases among the displaced population in Jordan are hypertension, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease (Rehr et al., 2018). Moreover, Syrian refugees face many difficulties accessing adequate public healthcare due to a shortage of human resources, such as intensive care unit (ICU) nurses, dentists, respiratory therapists, and microbiologists within the camps. ...
The COVID-19 pandemic has evolved into one of the most impactful crises of modern time, and most countries have implemented preventive measures such as nationwide lockdowns, closing certain businesses, and quarantine to prevent the spread of the virus. This study explores how the COVID-19 crisis and its preventive measures impact refugees’ welfare in the context of a developing country. The research is based on forty semi-structured interviews with Syrian and Palestinian refugees in Jordan. Research findings indicate that refugees are primarily employed in low-skilled jobs because of legal restrictions, which do not provide decent working conditions and socioeconomic security. Refugees are also mostly housed in high-density settlements with limited access to healthcare, sanitation, hygiene, and water (WASH) facilities. The research findings show that refugees are particularly at risk during the global health crisis due to precarious working and living conditions. This study concludes by providing recommendations on how to respond to future pandemic crises within refugee contexts based on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
