Mechanical Thrombectomy Workshops Improve Procedural Knowledge and Skills Among Neurointerventional Teams in Low- to Middle-Income Countries.

BACKGROUND: While mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is proven to be lifesaving and disability sparing, there remains a disparity in its access in low- to middle-income countries. We hypothesized that team-based MT workshops would improve MT knowledge and skills. METHODS: We designed a 22-hour MT workshop, conducted as 2 identical events: in English (Jamaica, January 2022) and in Spanish (Dominican Republic, May 2022). The workshops included participating neurointerventional teams (practicing neurointerventionalists, neurointerventional nurses, and technicians) focused on acute stroke due to large vessel occlusion. The course faculty led didactic and hands-on components, covering topics from case selection and postoperative management to device technology and MT surgical techniques. Attendees were evaluated on stroke knowledge and MT skills before and after the course using a multiple choice exam and simulated procedures utilizing flow models under fluoroscopy, respectively. Press conferences for public education with invited government officials were included to raise stroke awareness. RESULTS: Twenty-two physicians and their teams from 8 countries across the Caribbean completed the didactic and hands-on training. Overall test scores (n=18) improved from 67% to 85% (P<0.002). Precourse and postcourse hands-on assessments demonstrated reduced time to completion from 36.5 to 21.1 minutes (P<0.001). All teams showed an improvement in measures of good MT techniques, with 39% improvement in complete reperfusion. Eight teams achieved a Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score of 3 on pre-course versus 15 of 18 teams on post-course. There was a significant reduction in total potentially dangerous maneuvers (70% pre versus 20% post; P<0.002). Universally, the workshop was rated as satisfactory and likely to change practice in 93% Dominican Republic and 75% Jamaica. CONCLUSIONS: A team-based hands-on simulation approach to MT training is novel, feasible, and effective in improving procedural skills. Participants viewed these workshops as practice-changing and instrumental in creating a pathway for increasing access to MT in low- to middle-income countries.

Status of the national immunization technical advisory groups in the Americas: recommendations for improvement.

Objectives: To evaluate the structure and operation of national immunization technical advisory groups (NITAGs) in Latin America and the Caribbean and to make recommendations for improvement. Methods: A convenience sample of six current and eight former NITAG members representing 12 countries in the region were invited in 2022 to answer a web-based questionnaire on NITAG structure, organization, and procedures. The questionnaire used indicators similar to those in the Joint Reporting Form on Immunization. Participants were also asked about the role their NITAGs played in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) immunization policies. Results: Brazil, Dominican Republic, and Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) reported not having an active NITAG. The nine active NITAGs are structured and organized according to World Health Organization and Pan American Health Organization recommendations, with variations between countries. Most NITAGs include representatives of the five recommended medical specialties with the participation of additional members possible. Only Bolivia (Plurinational State of) and Mexico have no explicit policy for managing members' potential conflicts of interest. All NITAGs have an exclusively technical advisory role and generally meet once a quarter. Usually, NITAGs are asked by health ministries to analyze issues and make recommendations. All NITAGs, except for Peru's, actively participated in supporting decision-making for immunization policy on COVID-19. Conclusions: NITAGs have successfully supported vaccine policy-making through evidence-based recommendations. However, improvement in their structure, operation, and transparency is needed to help them keep up with the rapidly evolving field of immunization. Research on the impact of NITAGs is important to support the development of recommendations for improvement.

[Concordance between essential medicines lists and diabetes guidelines in Latin America and the CaribbeanConcordância entre as listas de medicamentos essenciais e diretrizes para diabetes na América Latina e no Caribe]. / Concordancia entre las listas de medicamentos esenciales y las guías para diabetes en América Latina y el Caribe.

Objective: Conduct an analysis to determine the existence and updating of national essential medicines lists (EMLs) and clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for the treatment of diabetes in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC); and compare the medicines included in each country's list and guidelines both with each other and with those of the World Health Organization (WHO). Methods: Cross-sectional study. EMLs and CPGs for diabetes were found on the websites of the Pan American Health Organization and national health authorities. Medicines were noted and analyzed according to pharmacological group, based on the fourth level of nomenclature of the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification system. F1 scoring was used to assess the proximity of EMLs to the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (MLEM). Results: Of the total number of countries, 87.2% have EMLs, and 91% have CPGs (78% and 45% updated in the last five years, respectively). Compared to the six hypoglycemic groups of the MLEM, the EMLs had a median (range) of 6 (4-13) and an F1 score of 0.80; This indicates proper alignment. CPGs had a median (range) of 12 (1-12) hypoglycemic drugs compared to eight in the WHO guidelines. CPGs had a median of 15 more drugs than their respective EMLs. Conclusions: While most LAC countries have EMLs and CPGs for diabetes, the lack of concordance among them limits their effectiveness. It is necessary to align the processes and criteria for the development of these two tools for policymaking on medicines.

Objetivos: Analisar a existência e a atualização das listas nacionais de medicamentos (LNMs) e guias de prática clínica (GPCs) para o tratamento do diabetes na América Latina e no Caribe (ALC). Comparar os medicamentos incluídos nas listas e nas diretrizes de cada país entre si e com as da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS). Métodos: Estudo transversal. Foram identificadas LMNs e GPCs para o diabetes nos sites da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde e das autoridades sanitárias nacionais. Os medicamentos foram pesquisados e analisados por grupo farmacológico de acordo com o quarto nível da classificação ATC. A pontuação F1 foi utilizada para avaliar o grau de proximidade das LMNs com a lista-modelo de medicamentos essenciais (LMME) da OMS. Resultados: Do total de países, 87,2% dispõem de uma LNM e 91%, de GPCs (78% e 45%, respectivamente, atualizadas nos últimos 5 anos). Em comparação com os seis grupos de agentes hipoglicemiantes da LMME, as LMNs tinham uma mediana (intervalo) de 6 (4 a 13) e uma pontuação F1 de 0,80, o que indica uma conformidade adequada. As GPCs tinham uma mediana (intervalo) de 12 (1 a 12) agentes hipoglicemiantes, em comparação com 8 nos guias da OMS. As GPCs tinham uma mediana de 15 medicamentos a mais do que as respectivas LNMs. Conclusões: Embora a maioria dos países da América Latina e do Caribe disponha de LNMs e GPCs para o diabetes, a falta de concordância entre elas limita sua eficácia. É necessário alinhar os processos e os critérios de desenvolvimento dessas duas ferramentas da política de medicamentos.

Incidence of childhood cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean: coverage, patterns, and time trends.

Objective: To provide a comprehensive overview of geographical patterns (2001-2010) and time trends (1993-2012) of cancer incidence in children aged 0-19 years in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and interpret the findings in the context of global patterns. Methods: Geographical variations in 2001-2010 and incidence trends over 1993-2012 in the population of LAC younger than 20 years were described using the database of the third volume of the International Incidence of Childhood Cancer study containing comparable data. Age-specific incidence per million person-years (ASR) was calculated for population subgroups and age-standardized (WSR) using the world standard population. Results: Overall, 36 744 unique cases were included in this study. In 2001-2010 the overall WSR in age 0-14 years was 132.6. The most frequent were leukemia (WSR 48.7), central nervous system neoplasms (WSR 23.0), and lymphoma (WSR 16.6). The overall ASR in age group 15-19 years was 152.3 with lymphoma ranking first (ASR 30.2). Incidence was higher in males than in females, and higher in South America than in Central America and the Caribbean. Compared with global data LAC incidence was lower overall, except for leukemia and lymphoma at age 0-14 years and the other and unspecified tumors at any age. Overall incidence at age 0-19 years increased by 1.0% per year (95% CI [0.6, 1.3]) over 1993-2012. The included registries covered 16% of population aged 0-14 years and 10% of population aged 15-19 years. Conclusions: The observed patterns provide a baseline to assess the status and evolution of childhood cancer occurrence in the region. Extended and sustained support of cancer registration is required to improve representativeness and timeliness of data for childhood cancer control in LAC.

Risk factors associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes in Jamaica: a cross-sectional study of national surveillance data.

Objectives: To describe the characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19 cases in Jamaica and to explore the risk factors associated with severe COVID-19 from 9 March to 31 December 2020. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of national surveillance data was conducted using confirmed COVID-19 cases in Jamaica. Definitions of a confirmed case, disease severity, and death were based on World Health Organization guidelines. Chi-square and Fisher exact tests were used to determine association with outcomes. Logistic regression models were used to determine predictors of severe COVID-19. Results: This analysis included 12 169 cases of COVID-19 (median age, 36 years; 6 744 females [ 55.4%]) of which 512 cases (4.2%) presented with severe disease, and of those, 318 patients (62.1%) died (median age at death, 71.5 years). Severe disease was associated with being male (OR 1.4; 95% CI, 1.2-1.7) and 40 years or older (OR, 6.5; 95% CI, 5.1-8.2). COVID-19 death was also associated with being male (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1-1.7), age 40 years or older (OR, 17.9; 95% CI, 11.6-27.7), and in the Western versus South East Health Region (OR 1.7; 95% CI, 1.2-2.3). Conclusions: The findings of this cross-sectional analysis indicate that confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Jamaica were more likely to be female and younger individuals, whereas COVID-19 deaths occurred more frequently in males and older individuals. There is increased risk of poor COVID-19 outcomes beginning at age 40, with males disproportionately affected. COVID-19 death also varied by geographic region. This evidence could be useful to other countries with similar settings and to policymakers charged with managing outbreaks and health.

Investigating under-reported human papillomavirus genotypes in Grenadian women through self-sampling for cervical cancer screening.

Objective: To compare the adequacy, agreement, and acceptability of Papanicolaou testing (cytology) for cervical cancer screening using self-collected samples compared to physician-collected samples in Grenada in the Caribbean. Furthermore, the study identifies the human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes present among asymptomatic women testing positive for HPV, the etiologic cause of cervical cancer. Methods: Participants were divided into two groups and two cervical samples were collected from the women in each group: a self-collected sample and a physician-collected sample. Cervical specimens were tested for cytology and HPV. HPV genotyping was performed on positive specimens. Results: Self-collected samples were adequate and in agreement with physician-collected samples, showing no difference between the two sampling methods. Oncogenic high-risk HPV genotypes were identified in cervical samples which were positive for atypical squamous cells and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. The high-risk HPV genotypes found, notably HPV 45 and 53, differed from those most commonly reported. Although the commonly reported high-risk genotypes HPV 16 and 18 were found, so were 31, 33, 35, 52, 66, 68, and 82. Conclusions: Using self-collection facilitated the discovery of unexpected HPV genotypes among asymptomatic women in Grenada. These findings add new information to the literature regarding cervical cancer and neoplasia screening and HPV genotypes in the Caribbean. This genotype information may impact surveillance of women with low-grade lesions, HPV vaccine selection, and possibly further vaccine research. Research regarding HPV in Caribbean pathology samples of cervical neoplasia and cancer is needed.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Deaths Attributable to Antimicrobial Resistance, Latin America.

Antimicrobial resistance is a pressing global health concern, leading to 4.95 million deaths in 2019. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the lethality attributed to infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in Latin America and the Caribbean. A comprehensive search of major databases retrieved relevant studies from 2000-2022. We included 54 observational studies, primarily from Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia. The most commonly studied organism was methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The overall unadjusted case fatality rate related to MDROs was 45.0%; higher adjusted lethality was observed in persons infected with MDROs than in those infected with other pathogens (adjusted odds ratio 1.93, 95% CI 1.58-2.37). A higher lethality rate was seen in patients who did not receive appropriate empirical treatment (odds ratio 2.27, 95% CI 1.44-3.56). These findings underscore the increased lethality associated with antimicrobial resistance in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Testicular cancer mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean: trend analysis from 1997 to 2019.

BACKGROUND: In the last decades, an increasing incidence of testicular cancer has been observed in several countries worldwide. Although mortality rates have been variable in many countries, little information is available from Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Therefore, we examined mortality trends of testicular cancer in the last two decades. METHODS: Age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR) of testicular cancer per 100,000 men-years were estimated using the World Health Organization mortality database from 1997 to 2019. We examined the mortality trends and computed annual percent change (APC) for all ages and the following age groups, 15-29, 30-44, 15-44, and ≥ 45 years. RESULTS: Ten countries had mortality rates greater than 0.43 per 100,000 men, with the highest rates for Chile, Mexico, and Argentina. Significant increases in mortality rates were observed in Argentina, Brazil Colombia, and Mexico in all ages, and < 45 years, while Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru reported significant downward trends in males aged ≥ 45 years. Only Chile showed significant decreases for all ages and age groups studied. CONCLUSION: Mortality by testicular cancer increased among LAC countries in males of all ages and across age groups. A reduction in mortality rates was observed only in Chilean males of all ages and in men ≥ 45 years in several countries. Strengthening of early detection among symptomatic males may decrease the mortality by this neoplasm.

Disparities in breast cancer mortality among Latin American women: trends and predictions for 2030.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is among the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) women, but a comprehensive and updated analysis of mortality trends is lacking. The objective of this study was to determine the breast cancer mortality rates between 1997 and 2017 for LAC countries and predict mortality until 2030. METHODS: We retrieved breast cancer deaths across 17 LAC countries from the World Health Organization mortality database. Age-standardized mortality rates per 100,000 women-years were estimated. Mortality trends were evaluated with Joinpoint regression analyses by country and age group (all ages, < 50 years, and ≥ 50 years). By 2030, we predict number of deaths, mortality rates, changes in population structure and size, and the risk of death from breast cancer. RESULTS: Argentina, Uruguay, and Venezuela reported the highest mortality rates throughout the study period. Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua reported the largest increases (from 2.4 to 2.8% annually), whereas Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay reported downward trends (from - 1.0 to - 1.6% annually). In women < 50y, six countries presented downward trends and five countries showed increasing trends. In women ≥ 50y, three countries had decreased trends and ten showed increased trends. In 2030, increases in mortality are expected in the LAC region, mainly in Guatemala (+ 63.0%), Nicaragua (+ 47.3), El Salvador (+ 46.2%), Ecuador (+ 38.5%) and Venezuela (+ 29.9%). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest considerable differences in breast cancer mortality across LAC countries by age group. To achieve the 2030 sustainable developmental goals, LAC countries should implement public health strategies to reduce mortality by breast cancer.

Contexts motivating protective behaviours related to Aedes-borne infectious diseases in Curaçao.

BACKGROUND: Aedes aegypti, the vector of arboviral diseases such as dengue and Zika virus infections, is difficult to control. Effective interventions must be practicable, comprehensive, and sustained. There is evidence that community participation can enhance mosquito control. Therefore, countries are encouraged to develop and integrate community-based approaches to mosquito control to mitigate Aedes-borne infectious diseases (ABIDs). Health professionals must understand the contexts motivating individuals' behaviour to improve community participation and promote behavioural change. Therefore, this study aimed to determine how contexts shaped individuals' protective behaviours related to ABIDs in Curaçao. METHODS: From April 2019 to September 2020, a multi-method qualitative study applying seven (n = 54) focus group discussions and twenty-five in-depth interviews with locals was performed in CuraÒ«ao. The study was designed based on the Health Belief Model (HBM). Two cycles of inductive and deductive coding were employed, and Nvivo software was used to manage and analyse the data. RESULTS: In this study, low media coverage (external cue to action) and limited experience with the symptoms of ABIDs (internal cue to action) were linked with a low perceived susceptibility and severity of ABIDs (low perceived threat). The low perceived threat was linked with reduced health-seeking behaviour (HSB) to prevent and control ABIDs. We also found that the perceived barriers outweigh the perceived benefits of ABID prevention and control interventions, obstructing HSB. On the one hand, insufficient knowledge reduced self-efficacy but contrary to expected, having good knowledge did not promote HSB. Lastly, we found that our participants believe that they are responsible for preventing ABIDs (internal locus of control) but at the same time indicated that their success depends on the efforts of the community and the health system (external locus of control). CONCLUSIONS: This study used the HBM to explain individual changes in HSB concerning ABIDs prevention and control in Curaçao. We can conclude that the perceived threat (perceived susceptibility and severity) and perceived barriers played an essential role in changing HSB. Health professionals must consider these two concepts' implications when designing a bottom-up approach for ABIDs control; otherwise, community participation will remain minimal.

Development of an HIV/STI and partner violence health promotion intervention for abused US Virgin Islands women.

Women in the US Virgin Islands (USVI) experience intimate partner violence (IPV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) at disproportionate rates compared to women on the US mainland. Women in violent relationships report experiencing controlling behaviours that decrease their ability to negotiate for sex using condoms or to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Though several evidence-based interventions exist to prevent either IPV or HIV, few address them through an integrated health promotion approach or attend to particular USVI cultural mores. This article describes the systematic development of a theory based, culturally tailored, integrated health promotion intervention that addresses IPV and HIV among USVI women experiencing abuse. The process included: (i) identifying and integrating evidence-based health promotion interventions, (ii) conducting formative research using focus groups, (iii) synthesizing focus group data to inform intervention development and (iv) developing a culturally and linguistically appropriate intervention specific to the needs and concerns of USVI women. The Empowered Sisters Project: Making Choices Reducing Risks (ESP) was developed through this research. ESP is a three-session health promotion curriculum focussed on enhancing sexual health and safety among women experiencing abuse. The ESP intervention components included promoting condom use, increasing IPV and HIV knowledge and developing a personalized safety plan. Health professionals facilitated individual intervention sessions using culturally tailored visual media and scripts. This program focussed on experiences of women living in the USVI and has implications for utility across the Caribbean diaspora.

Need for open data on COVID-19 vaccine uptake among pregnant people in the Caribbean: a call to action.

Pregnant people with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have a higher risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes compared with pregnant people without COVID-19. In 2021, large increases in maternal mortality were reported in Jamaica, almost half of which were attributable to COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccination has been shown to reduce these risks, but low- and middle-income countries lack free, publicly available data, known as open data, on COVID-19 vaccine uptake for their pregnant populations. The objectives of this paper were to: review how high-income countries use open data to detect trends in COVID-19 vaccine uptake among pregnant people and develop vaccination distribution strategies; outline barriers to making open data available for maternal COVID-19 vaccination in the Caribbean; and propose a multipronged strategy that would increase the availability of open data on maternal COVID-19 vaccination in the Caribbean. A multipronged strategy to fill the data void would involve: (i) utilizing existing Caribbean maternal immunization data collection entities; (ii) adapting digital software tools to establish maternal electronic immunization registries; and (iii) collaborating with local partners skilled in data analytics. Making open data available for COVID-19 vaccine uptake among pregnant people in the Caribbean could offer substantial benefits, including the development of measurable maternal COVID-19 vaccination goals and the facilitation of vaccine decision-making discussions between providers and pregnant people.

Las embarazadas con la enfermedad por coronavirus del 2019 (COVID-19) tienen un mayor riesgo de resultados maternos y fetales adversos que aquellas libres de la enfermedad. En el 2021, en Jamaica se notificó un gran aumento de la mortalidad materna, del cual casi la mitad fue atribuible a la COVID-19. Se ha demostrado que la vacunación contra la COVID-19 reduce tales riesgos, pero los países de ingresos bajos y medianos carecen de datos gratuitos y de carácter público, conocidos como datos abiertos, sobre la aceptación de la vacuna contra la COVID-19 por parte de las mujeres durante el embarazo. Los objetivos del presente artículo consistieron en examinar cómo los países de ingresos altos utilizan los datos abiertos para detectar las tendencias de aceptación de la vacuna contra la COVID-19 entre las mujeres durante el embarazo y formular estrategias de distribución de las vacunas; señalar los obstáculos que dificultan la disponibilidad de los datos abiertos sobre la vacunación materna contra la COVID-19 en el Caribe; y proponer una estrategia múltiple que permita aumentar la disponibilidad de datos abiertos sobre la vacunación materna contra la COVID-19 en el Caribe. Una estrategia múltiple para llenar este vacío de información implicaría: a) utilizar las entidades de recopilación de datos sobre inmunización materna ya existentes en el Caribe; b) adaptar las herramientas informáticas digitales para crear registros electrónicos de vacunación materna; y c) colaborar con asociados locales especializados en el análisis de datos. Facilitar el acceso a los datos abiertos sobre la aceptación de la vacuna contra la COVID-19 entre las mujeres durante el embarazo en el Caribe podría ofrecer beneficios considerables, tales como el establecimiento de objetivos cuantificables en materia de vacunación materna contra la COVID-19, y propiciar las deliberaciones sobre la toma de decisiones en materia de vacunación entre los prestadores de atención de salud y las embarazadas.

Gestantes com a doença pelo coronavírus 2019 (COVID-19) têm maior risco de desfechos maternos e fetais adversos em comparação com gestantes sem COVID-19. Em 2021, foi registrado um aumento acentuado da mortalidade materna na Jamaica, e quase metade era atribuível à COVID-19. Foi demonstrado que a vacinação contra a COVID-19 reduz esses riscos, mas os países de baixa e média renda não dispõem de dados gratuitos e publicamente disponíveis (os chamados dados abertos) sobre a adesão à vacina contra a COVID-19 entre gestantes. Os objetivos deste estudo foram: analisar como os países de alta renda usam dados abertos para detectar tendências na adesão à vacina contra a COVID-19 entre gestantes e desenvolver estratégias de distribuição da vacina; descrever os obstáculos para disponibilizar dados abertos sobre a vacinação materna contra a COVID-19 no Caribe; e propor uma estratégia multifacetada que aumente a disponibilidade de dados abertos sobre a vacinação materna contra a COVID-19 no Caribe. Uma estratégia multifacetada para obter dados a fim de preencher essa lacuna envolveria: (i) utilização das entidades existentes que coletam dados de imunização materna no Caribe; (ii) adaptação de ferramentas de software para estabelecer registros eletrônicos de imunização materna; e (iii) colaboração com parceiros locais especializados em análise de dados. A disponibilização de dados abertos sobre a adesão de gestantes à vacinação contra a COVID-19 no Caribe poderia oferecer benefícios substanciais, incluindo o desenvolvimento de metas mensuráveis de vacinação materna contra a COVID-19, e facilitar discussões entre profissionais de saúde e gestantes para a tomada de decisões sobre vacinas.

READ-ing antimicrobial stewardship in the Caribbean: a tri-nation document review.

Objective: To explore the antimicrobial stewardship policy landscape in three English-speaking Caribbean countries (Barbados, Guyana, and Saint Lucia) and examine the key enablers and challenges to the design and implementation of formal antimicrobial stewardship programs. Methods: A document analysis that searched for existing policy, communications, and contributions on antimicrobial stewardship from these three countries, adapting the READ (Ready materials; Extract data; Analyze data; Distill findings) approach, a systematic procedure for health policy document review. Results: The search strategy identified 726 initial records. Of those, 15 (2%) met the inclusion criteria. The analysis included official policy documents (n = 3), scholarly works/reviews (n = 3), advocacy documents (n = 2), news articles (n = 4), and confidential reports (n = 3) from the three countries. Conclusions: Critical matters such as cross-programmatic coordination, the significance of individual action, and the need for bidirectional knowledge discourse are prominent in optimizing antimicrobial stewardship adaptation in these countries. CARICOM regional coordination has positively impacted the integration of infection prevention and control with antimicrobial stewardship across this knowledge network.

A review of immunization legislation for children in English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean countries.

Objective: To assess the legislative frameworks concerning childhood vaccination in the English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean and propose a model legislative framework for Caribbean countries. Methods: This study included a survey of 22 countries and territories in the Caribbean regarding legal vaccination mandates for school entry, budget allocations, sanctions, or exemptions. A legal consultant conducted a comprehensive search and analysis of legislation regarding vaccination among 13 Caribbean countries/territories. A comparative analysis of the legislation under five themes-legislative structure, mandatory vaccination, national immunization schedule, sanctions, and exemptions-formed the basis for the proposed model legislation. Results: Among the 22 Caribbean countries/territories, 17 (77%) had legislation mandating vaccination, 16 (94%) mandated vaccination for school entry, 8 (47%) had a dedicated budget for immunization programs, and 13 (76%) had no legislated national schedules. The source of legislation includes six (35%) using the Education Act, eight (47%) the Public Health Act, and five (29%) a free-standing Vaccination Act. Three countries/territories-Jamaica, Montserrat, and Saint Lucia-had immunization regulations. In 12 (71%) of the 17 countries with legislation, sanctions were included, and 10 (59%) permitted exemptions for medical or religious/philosophical beliefs. Conclusions: Several countries in the Caribbean have made failure to vaccinate a child an offense. By summarizing the existing legislative frameworks and approaches to immunization in the Caribbean, the analysis guides policymakers in making effective changes to immunization legislation in their own countries.

Healthy aging and care of the older adult with chronic disease: a qualitative needs assessment in 14 eastern and southern Caribbean islands.

The objectives of this qualitative needs assessment were to assess perceived needs of health and social services professionals in the Caribbean Region to enhance services supporting healthy aging and care of older adults and to assess perceived facilitators and barriers to increasing capacity to serve their aging populations. The assessment, informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Science, was conducted in 14 islands in the eastern and southern Caribbean. The results demonstrated need for education of professionals and the general population about the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), assessment and services for individuals with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, depression, and harmful alcohol use, all of which pose significant challenges for older adults. Education of health and social services professionals, families, and the public on the risk factors for NCDs and common mental and physical health problems is critical. Barriers to implementation of educational programs include lack of community awareness and resources within the islands. The needs assessment findings are foundational to planning educational interventions. These will be developed by local health providers with the collaboration and support of external resources including those of the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Collaborating Centre in Gerontological Nursing Education.

Los objetivos de esta evaluación cualitativa de las necesidades fueron evaluar las necesidades que perciben los profesionales de la salud y de los servicios sociales en el Caribe a fin de mejorar los servicios de apoyo al envejecimiento saludable y el cuidado de las personas mayores, así como evaluar los factores percibidos como facilitadores y como obstáculos para mejorar su capacidad de atender a la población que está envejeciendo. La evaluación, basada en el marco consolidado para la ciencia de la implementación, se realizó en 14 islas del Caribe oriental y meridional. Los resultados mostraron la necesidad de capacitar a los profesionales y educar a la población en general acerca de la prevención y el tratamiento de las enfermedades no transmisibles (ENT), la evaluación y los servicios para las personas con demencia, alzhéimer, depresión y problemas de consumo nocivo de alcohol, todos los cuales plantean importantes desafíos para las personas mayores. Es imprescindible capacitar a los profesionales de la salud y de los servicios sociales, así como educar a las familias y al público en general sobre los factores de riesgo de las ENT y los problemas de salud mental y física más habituales. Entre los obstáculos a la aplicación de los programas educativos se encuentran la falta de concientización de la comunidad y la falta de recursos en las islas. Los resultados de la evaluación de las necesidades son fundamentales para planificar las intervenciones educativas, que serán formuladas por los prestadores de atención de salud locales con la colaboración y el apoyo de recursos externos, incluidos los del Centro Colaborador de la Organización Panamericana de la Salud/Organización Mundial de la Salud en Educación en Enfermería Gerontológica.

Os objetivos desta avaliação qualitativa das necessidades foram avaliar as necessidades percebidas do pessoal da saúde e dos serviços de assistência social na região do Caribe, visando a melhorar os serviços de apoio ao envelhecimento saudável e de atenção às pessoas idosas e determinar os facilitadores e as barreiras percebidos, com vistas a melhorar a capacidade de prestar assistência às populações idosas. Esta avaliação foi realizada com base na Consolidated Framework for Implementation Science em 14 ilhas do Caribe oriental e meridional. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que é necessário prover conhecimento aos profissionais e à população geral sobre a prevenção e o tratamento de doenças não transmissíveis, e a avaliação de pessoas com demência, doença de Alzheimer, depressão e uso prejudicial de álcool e os respectivos serviços, visto que são enormes desafios enfrentados pelas pessoas idosas. É fundamental que o pessoal da saúde e dos serviços sociais, os familiares e o público em geral conheçam os fatores de risco para doenças não transmissíveis e os problemas comuns de saúde mental e física que afligem a população idosa. A falta de sensibilização da comunidade e a escassez de recursos são barreiras à implementação de programas educacionais. As conclusões desta avaliação servem de base para o planejamento de intervenções educacionais a serem desenvolvidas localmente pelo pessoal da saúde, com a colaboração e o apoio de entidades internacionais, como o Centro Colaborador da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde/Organização Mundial da Saúde para Educação em Enfermagem Gerontológica.

Bottom-up innovative responses to COVID-19 in Latin America and the Caribbean: addressing deprioritized populations.

Objective: To identify and describe innovative initiatives implemented as a response to the interruption of health services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Methods: This was a descriptive study that reviewed 34 initiatives implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic in LAC to address health services needs among deprioritized groups. The review of initiatives included four phases: a call for submissions of innovative initiatives from LAC countries; a selection of initiatives that had the ability to address health services gaps and that were innovative and effective; systematization and cataloging of the selected initiatives; and a content analysis of the information collected. Data were analyzed from September to October 2021. Results: The 34 initiatives show important variations regarding the target populations, the stakeholders involved, level of implementation, strategies, scope, and relevance of the innovative initiative. There was also evidence of the emergence of a bottom-up set of actions in the absence of top-down actions. Conclusion: The findings of this descriptive review of 34 initiatives implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic in LAC suggest that systematizing the strategies and lessons learned has the potential to expand learning for re-establishing and improving post-pandemic health services.

Self-perceived health of older adults in Latin America and the Caribbean: a scoping review.

Objective: To systematically map the existing evidence on self-perceived health among adults aged 60 and older in Latin America and the Caribbean, describe the use of the single-item measure of self-perceived health with this population, and identify gaps in the existing literature. Methods: Following PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines, eight databases were searched for publications that were published between 2009 and 2019 and reported self-perceived health of adults over 60 years old in Latin America and the Caribbean. Data on study characteristics, sample characteristics, and the use and analysis of the self-perceived health measure were charted. Results: The database and secondary searches identified 516 articles. After removing duplicates and assessing titles and abstracts for inclusion, 263 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility using the inclusion criteria and an additional 89 articles were excluded. Ultimately, 174 articles were included in the scoping review. Studies included participants from 17 countries in the region, led in frequency by Brazil with 120 articles. The self-perceived health question most often included a five-category response scale (130), and response options were predominantly divided into two (86) or three (48) categories for analysis. Conclusions: Information on the health and social needs of people aged 60 and older across Latin America and the Caribbean, particularly their perceptions of health, is limited. We highlight the need to expand research throughout the region, include particularly vulnerable populations, utilize data from longitudinal and qualitative studies, and call for transparency in how questions and responses are worded and analyzed. This review serves to inform future studies, programs, and policies directed at this population.

An initiative to improve mental health practice in primary care in Caribbean countries.

Objectives: The aim of this initiative was to assess whether a novel training program - Understanding Stigma and Strengthening Cognitive Behavioral Interpersonal Skills - could improve primary health care providers' confidence in the quality of mental health care they provide in the Caribbean setting by using the Plan-Do-Study-Act rapid cycle for learning improvement. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study of the impact of this training program. The training was refined during three cycles: first, the relevance of the program for practice improvement in the Caribbean was assessed. Second, pilot training of 15 local providers was conducted to adapt the program to the culture and context. Third, the course was launched in fall 2021 with 96 primary care providers. Pre- and post-program outcomes were assessed by surveys, including providers' confidence in the quality of the mental health care they provided, changes in stigma among the providers and their use of and comfort with the tools. This paper describes an evaluation of the results of cycle 3, the official launch. Results: A total of 81 participants completed the program. The program improved primary care providers' confidence in the quality of mental health care that they provided to people with lived experience of mental health disorders, and it reduced providers' stigmatization of people with mental health disorders. Conclusions: The program's quality improvement model achieved its goals in enhancing health care providers' confidence in the quality of the mental health care they provided in the Caribbean context; the program provides effective tools to support the work and it helped to empower and engage clients.

Advances in the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer: implementation in Latin America and the Caribbean.

This report describes the status of childhood cancer control initiatives in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Progress between 2017 and 2023 is measured using the outcome indicators from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) childhood cancer logic model aligned with the World Health Organization Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC). This report also describes the advances, barriers, and facilitators for the implementation of the GICC at the Regional level. Methods used in this report encompassed a comprehensive approach, incorporating a literature review, interviews, surveys, and a Delphi study developed by the technical team of the PAHO Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Department and by the GICC LAC working group. Since 2017, there has been a substantial increase in the number of countries that have included childhood cancer in their national regulations. Currently, 21 LAC countries are involved in the GICC implementation, activities, and dialogues. However, the objectives for 2030 will only be achieved if Member States overcome the barriers to accelerating the pace of initiative implementation. There is an urgent need to increase the efforts in childhood cancer control in LAC, especially regarding the prioritization of timely detection, essential diagnostics, access to cancer treatment, palliative care, and close follow-up of children and adolescents with cancer.

En este artículo se describe la situación de las iniciativas para el control del cáncer infantil en América Latina y el Caribe. Para medir los progresos entre el 2017 y el 2023, se utilizan los indicadores de resultados del modelo lógico del cáncer infantil de la Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OPS) que es coherente con la Iniciativa Mundial contra el Cáncer Infantil de la Organización Mundial de la Salud. También se describen los avances, los obstáculos y los elementos que han facilitado la aplicación de esa iniciativa en la Región Los métodos utilizados en este trabajo incluyeron un enfoque integral que incorporó una revisión bibliográfica, entrevistas, encuestas y un estudio de tipo Delfos llevado a cabo por el equipo técnico del Departamento de Enfermedades No Transmisibles y Salud Mental de la OPS y por el grupo de trabajo de América Latina y el Caribe de la Iniciativa Mundial contra el Cáncer Infantil de la Organización Mundial de la Salud.Desde el 2017 ha habido un incremento considerable en el número de países que incorporan el cáncer infantil en sus regulaciones nacionales. En la actualidad, 21 países de América Latina y el Caribe participan en la puesta en práctica, las actividades y las deliberaciones de la Iniciativa Mundial contra el Cáncer Infantil de la Organización Mundial de la Salud. No obstante, los objetivos para el 2030 solo podrán alcanzarse si los Estados Miembros son capaces de superar los obstáculos que dificultan la aceleración del ritmo de aplicación de esta iniciativa. Existe una necesidad urgente de aumentar las actividades dirigidas al control del cáncer infantil en América Latina y el Caribe, en especial en lo que respecta a priorizar la detección temprana, los medios de diagnóstico esenciales, el acceso a los tratamientos oncológicos, los cuidados paliativos y el seguimiento estricto de la población infantil y adolescente con cáncer.

Este relatório descreve a situação das iniciativas de controle do câncer infantil na Região da América Latina e do Caribe (ALC). O progresso alcançado entre 2017 e 2023 foi medido usando os indicadores de resultados intermediários do modelo lógico de câncer infantil da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde (OPAS), em linha com a Iniciativa Global para o Câncer Infantil (GICC) da Organização Mundial da Saúde. O relatório também descreve os avanços, as barreiras e os facilitadores para a implementação da iniciativa em nível regional. Os métodos utilizados neste relatório aplicaram uma abordagem abrangente que incluiu revisão da literatura, entrevistas, levantamentos e um estudo Delphi desenvolvido pela equipe técnica do Departamento de Doenças Não Transmissíveis e Saúde Mental da OPAS e pelo grupo de trabalho da GICC para a ALC.Desde 2017, houve um aumento significativo no número de países que passaram a incluir o câncer infantil em regulamentações nacionais. Atualmente, 21 países da América Latina e do Caribe estão envolvidos na implementação da GICC, bem como em atividades e diálogos relacionados. No entanto, os objetivos para 2030 só serão alcançados se os Estados Membros superarem as barreiras ao aceleramento do ritmo de implementação da iniciativa. Existe uma necessidade urgente de intensificar os esforços de controle do câncer infantil na ALC, especialmente no tocante à priorização da detecção em tempo hábil, diagnósticos essenciais, acesso a tratamentos oncológicos, cuidados paliativos e acompanhamento cuidadoso de crianças e adolescentes com câncer.

Collaboration for success: the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer in Latin America.

The Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC) aims to increase the cure rate for children with cancer globally by improving healthcare access and quality. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (St. Jude), and collaborators have joined efforts to improve outcomes of children with cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) using the CureAll framework. In this article, we describe the process of developing regional resources aimed at accelerating the GICC implementation in LAC. In March 2021, PAHO formed regional working groups to develop core projects aligned with CureAll pillars and enablers. Seven working groups emerged from regional dialogues: early detection, nursing, psychosocial, nutrition, supportive care, treatment abandonment, and palliative care. PAHO arranged regular online meetings under the mentorship and support of St. Jude regional/transversal programs and international mentors. Between April and December 2021, 202 multidisciplinary experts attended 43 online meetings to promote the dialogue between stakeholders to improve childhood cancer outcomes. Fourteen technical outputs were produced: four regional snapshots, four technical documents, two virtual courses, one set of epidemiological country profiles, one educational content series for parents/caregivers, and two communication campaigns. The ongoing dialogue and commitment of PAHO, St. Jude, LAC working committees, and international collaborators are essential foundations to successfully accelerate GICC implementation. This is achievable through the development of materials of regional and global relevance. Further research and evaluation are needed to determine the impact of these strategies and resources on childhood cancer outcomes in LAC and other regions.

La Iniciativa Mundial contra el Cáncer Infantil tiene como objetivo aumentar a nivel mundial la tasa de curación del cáncer infantil mediante la mejora del acceso a la atención de salud y de su calidad. La Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OPS), el St. Jude Children's Research Hospital y los colaboradores han aunado esfuerzos para mejorar los resultados en la población infantil con cáncer en América Latina y el Caribe valiéndose del marco CureAll. En este artículo describimos el proceso de elaboración de recursos regionales destinados a acelerar la aplicación de la Iniciativa Mundial en América Latina y el Caribe.En marzo del 2021, la OPS formó grupos de trabajo regionales para elaborar proyectos básicos que estuvieran en consonancia con los pilares y los elementos facilitadores del CureAll. De los diálogos regionales surgieron siete grupos de trabajo: detección temprana, enfermería, aspectos psicosociales, nutrición, tratamientos de apoyo, abandono del tratamiento y cuidados paliativos. La OPS organizó con regularidad reuniones virtuales en las que se contó con la tutoría y el apoyo de programas regionales o transversales del St. Jude Children's Research Hospital y de mentores internacionales.Entre abril y diciembre del 2021 hubo 43 reuniones virtuales a las que asistieron 202 expertos multidisciplinarios, con el objetivo de promover el diálogo entre las partes interesadas para mejorar los resultados en materia de cáncer infantil. Se elaboraron catorce productos técnicos: cuatro panoramas regionales, cuatro documentos técnicos, dos cursos virtuales, un conjunto de perfiles epidemiológicos de países, una serie con contenidos educativos para padres y cuidadores y dos campañas de comunicación.El diálogo y el compromiso constantes de la OPS, el St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, los comités de trabajo de América Latina y el Caribe y los colaboradores internacionales son las bases fundamentales para conseguir que se acelere la aplicación de la Iniciativa Mundial. Esto se puede lograr mediante la elaboración de materiales que resulten pertinentes a nivel regional y mundial. Son necesarias más investigaciones y evaluaciones para determinar el impacto que tienen estas estrategias y recursos en los resultados que se obtienen en el cáncer infantil en América Latina y el Caribe y en otras subregiones.

A Iniciativa Global para o Câncer Infantil tem como objetivo aumentar a taxa de cura de crianças com câncer no mundo todo, melhorando o acesso a cuidados e a qualidade da assistência médica. A Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde (OPAS), o St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (St. Jude) e colaboradores uniram esforços para melhorar o desfecho de crianças com câncer na América Latina e no Caribe (ALC) no âmbito do marco CureAll. Neste artigo, descrevemos o processo de desenvolvimento de recursos regionais com o objetivo de acelerar a implementação da Iniciativa na ALC.Em março de 2021, a OPAS formou grupos de trabalho regionais para desenvolver projetos centrais alinhados com os pilares e facilitadores do CureAll. A partir das reuniões de diálogo regionais, foram criados sete grupos de trabalho: detecção precoce, enfermagem, atenção psicossocial, nutrição, cuidados de suporte, abandono do tratamento e cuidados paliativos. A OPAS organizou reuniões virtuais regulares sob a orientação e o apoio dos programas regionais e transversais do St. Jude e de mentores internacionais.Entre abril e dezembro de 2021, 202 especialistas multidisciplinares participaram de 43 reuniões virtuais para promover o diálogo entre as partes interessadas a fim de melhorar os desfechos do câncer infantil. Foram produzidos 14 materiais técnicos: quatro panoramas regionais, quatro documentos técnicos, dois cursos virtuais, um conjunto de perfis epidemiológicos nacionais, uma série de conteúdo educacional para pais e cuidadores e duas campanhas de comunicação.O diálogo e o compromisso contínuos da OPAS, do St. Jude, dos comitês de trabalho da ALC e dos colaboradores internacionais são bases essenciais para acelerar com sucesso a implementação da Iniciativa Global para o Câncer Infantil. Isso é possível por meio do desenvolvimento de materiais de relevância regional e mundial. São necessárias mais pesquisas e avaliações para determinar o impacto dessas estratégias e recursos nos resultados do câncer infantil na ALC e em outras regiões.