OBJECTIVE: To determine attitudes toward and utilization of testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B among obstetric care providers in Kabul, Afghanistan. DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. SETTING: Three public maternity hospitals in Kabul, Afghanistan. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred and fourteen (114) doctors and midwives. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Prevalence and correlates of ever having tested patients for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and agreement with statements concerning attitudes toward testing and care. RESULTS: Less than half of the patient care providers surveyed had previously tested a patient for HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis B. Presumed rarity of these infections in Afghanistan was the most frequently stated reason for not testing, although many midwives stated that they did not have the authority to order tests. Most providers supported testing to promote neonatal health, but some midwives expressed concern regarding patient and family perceptions. CONCLUSIONS: Due to logistical and cultural barriers, obstetric care providers underutilize testing for antenatal patients in Afghanistan. Improved training, empowerment of female providers, and availability of rapid testing are needed.
OBJECTIVE: To determine attitudes toward and utilization of testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B among obstetric care providers in Kabul, Afghanistan. DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. SETTING: Three public maternity hospitals in Kabul, Afghanistan. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred and fourteen (114) doctors and midwives. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Prevalence and correlates of ever having tested patients for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and agreement with statements concerning attitudes toward testing and care. RESULTS: Less than half of the patient care providers surveyed had previously tested a patient for HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis B. Presumed rarity of these infections in Afghanistan was the most frequently stated reason for not testing, although many midwives stated that they did not have the authority to order tests. Most providers supported testing to promote neonatal health, but some midwives expressed concern regarding patient and family perceptions. CONCLUSIONS: Due to logistical and cultural barriers, obstetric care providers underutilize testing for antenatal patients in Afghanistan. Improved training, empowerment of female providers, and availability of rapid testing are needed.
Authors: Thomas K Welty; Marc Bulterys; Edith R Welty; Pius M Tih; George Ndikintum; Godlove Nkuoh; Joseph Nkfusai; Janet Kayita; John N Nkengasong; Catherine M Wilfert Journal: J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr Date: 2005-12-01 Impact factor: 3.731
Authors: Linda A Bartlett; Shairose Mawji; Sara Whitehead; Chadd Crouse; Suraya Dalil; Denisa Ionete; Peter Salama Journal: Lancet Date: 2005 Mar 5-11 Impact factor: 79.321
Authors: Sarah Hawkes; Suellen Miller; Laura Reichenbach; Anjali Nayyar; Kent Buses Journal: Bull World Health Organ Date: 2004-06 Impact factor: 9.408