Fluoride in Mozambique: retrospective study / Flúor em Moçambique: estudo retrospectivo

ABSTRACT Objective: The study aims to analyse the fluoride concentration in the water supply of the capital of each province of Mozambique, 2019 and compare with previous data 1978 and 2008. Methods: The water supply in cities of Mozambique were analysed in 1978, 2008 and 2019 and water from Tete's River in 1978 and 2019. The fluoride concentration of the water samples was determined in duplicate, using the ion-sensitive electrode (Orion 9609), coupled to a potentiometer (Procyon, model 720), adopting a significance level of 5%. Results: The average fluoride concentration found in the years 1978, 2008 and 2019 was 0.31, 0.33 and 0.14 mg F/L, respectively. The fluoride concentrations collected from household taps in 1978, 2008 and 2019 were: Cabo Delgado/Pemba (0.62, 0.28 and 0.07 mg F/L), Niassa/Lichinga (0.18, 0.98 and 0.07 mg F/L), Nampula/Nampula (0.18, 0.01 and 0.06 mg F/L), Zambézia/Quelimane (0.81, 0.37 and 0.15 mg F/L), Tete/Tete (1.00, 0.97 and 0 .46 mg F/L), Sofala/Beira (0.00, 0.01 and 0.10mg F/L), Manica/Chimoio (0.04, 0.01 and 0.07 mg F/L), Inhambane/Inhambane (0.00, 0.05 and 0.19 mg F/L), Gaza/Xai-Xai (0.01, 0.06 and 0.06 mg F/L) and Maputo (0.23, 0.36 and 0.23 mg F/L), respectively. In the waters of the Zambeze River was 5.5 mg F/L in 1978 and 0.12 mg F/L in 2019. There was no significant change between the fluoride concentrations in the water collected from the taps during the periods studied (p=0.83), however there was a significant difference in the water collected from the river (p<0.05). Conclusion: Tete' River showed a significant reduction in fluoride concentration, and in the piped water collected in all municipalities, the fluoride content was below optimum.

RESUMO Objetivo: O estudo visa analisar a concentração de flúor no abastecimento de água da capital de cada província de Moçambique, 2019 e comparar com dados anteriores de 1978 e 2008. Métodos: A água de abastecimento das cidades de Moçambique foi analisada em 1978, 2008 e 2019 e a água do Rio Tete em 1978 e 2019. A concentração de flúor das amostras de água foi determinada em duplicata, utilizando o eletrodo íon-sensível (Orion 9609), acoplado a um potenciômetro (Procyon, modelo 720), adotando-se nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: A concentração média de flúor encontrada nos anos de 1978, 2008 e 2019 foi de 0,31, 0,33 e 0,14 mg F/L, respectivamente. As concentrações de flúor recolhidas nas torneiras das casas em 1978, 2008 e 2019 foram: Cabo Delgado/Pemba (0,62, 0,28 e 0,07 mg F/L), Niassa/Lichinga (0,18, 0,98 e 0,07 mg F/L), Nampula/Nampula (0,18, 0,01 e 0,06 mg F/L), Zambézia /Quelimane (0,81, 0,37 e 0,15 mg F/L), Tete/Tete (1,00, 0,97 e 0,46 mg F/L), Sofala/Beira (0,00, 0,01 e 0,10 mg F/L), Manica/Chimoio (0,04, 0,01 e 0,07 mg F/L), Inhambane/Inhambane (0,00 , 0,05 e 0,19 mg F/L), Gaza/Xai-Xai (0,01, 0,06 e 0,06 mg F/L) e Maputo (0,23, 0,36 e 0,23 mg F/L), respectivamente. Nas águas do rio Zambeze foi de 5,5 mg F/L em 1978 e 0,12 mg F/L em 2019. Não houve alteração significativa entre as concentrações de flúor na água coletada das torneiras durante os períodos estudados (p=0,83), porém houve diferença significativa na água captada no Rio (p<0,05). Conclusão: O Rio Tete apresentou redução significativa na concentração de flúor, e na água das torneiras coletada em todas as cidades, o teor de flúor estava abaixo do ideal.

Topics, Concerns, and Feelings Commented on Facebook after the First Death by COVID-19 in Mozambique / Temas, preocupaciones y sentimientos comentados en Facebook tras la primera muerte por COVID-19 en Mozambique

In Mozambique, as in other parts of the world, COVID-19 has had consequences in many areas, especially in the health sector. This study aims to analyze the comments made and discussed on Facebook after the first death from the disease, verifying the main topics, concerns, and feelings that users most expressed on that social network. Using the content analysis method, IRaMuTeQ® generated a dendrogram focused on death, diagnostic circumstances, disease prevention, and restrictive government measures. Users also raised concerns about health care professionals, family and community, and feelings of sadness. Although the feelings presented reflect the lan-guage used in comments on a social network, and it is impossible to diagnose from them, this study creates paths for further research in the area. Therefore, for the first time, it demonstrates results from a mental health study with data analyzed from a social network in Mozambique. These results can guide and alert local health entities about health communications, strategies, and attention that should be given to the mental health of individuals during this pandemic and in the long term

En Mozambique, como en otras partes del mundo, el COVID-19 trajo consecuencias en muchas áreas, principalmente en el sector de la salud. Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar los comentarios realizados y discutidos en Facebook después de la primera muerte por la enfermedad, con el fin de verificar los principales temas, preocupaciones y sentimientos que los usuarios más expresaron en esa red social. Utilizando el método de análisis de contenido, IRaMuTeQ® generó un dendrograma con temas enfocados en las circunstancias de la muerte, las circunstancias del diagnóstico, la prevención de enfermedades, y las medidas restrictivas del gobierno. También hubo preocupaciones con los profesionales de la salud, la familia y la comunidad, además de sentimientos de tristeza. Aunque los sentimientos presentados reflejan el lenguaje utilizado en los comentarios en una red social, y no es posible dar un diagnóstico basado en ellos, este estudio abre caminos para futuras investigaciones en el área. Por lo tanto, por primera vez, se demuestra un estudio de salud mental con datos analizados en una red social en Mozambique, y puede servir como ayuda y alerta a las entidades locales de salud sobre comunicaciones de salud, estrategias y atención que se debe dar a la salud mental de las personas durante esta pandemia y a largo plazo

Test positivity and clinical presentation of COVID-19 in Mozambican infants hospitalized during the second wave of the pandemic in 2021

Introduction: during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mozambique, there was a surge in pediatric hospitalizations at a time when there was relatively little evidence, but significant concern about clinical outcomes in African children, particularly in higher-risk infants requiring, and health system capacity to respond. Methods: a retrospective cohort study was conducted for patients 1-12 months of age admitted to the Breastfeeding ward at Hospital Central de Maputo from January-February 2021. All had routine SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing performed. For patients with positive results, hospital charts were retrospectively reviewed. Descriptive analyses were performed. Results: of 209 patients that had SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing performed, 102 (48.8%) received results, of which 37 (36.3%) were positive. Positive results were received prior to discharge for 14 patients (37.8%). Median duration of hospitalization was 3 days. There were two deaths in COVID-positive patients (5.4%), both with complex comorbidities. For the 35 COVID-19 positive patients whose charts were located, the principal admission diagnosis was respiratory for 22 (62.9%), and 14 (40.0%) had oxygen saturation <94% at admission. The white blood cell count was >12.0 x 103cells/mL in 10 patients (28.6%) and the most common abnormal finding on chest radiograph was peribronchial thickening (38.5% of patients with results). Oxygen therapy was needed for 20 patients (57.1%). Conclusion: the majority of infants with COVID-19 had a mild, short-duration respiratory illness that did not exceed ward capacity for care, including oxygen treatment. Laboratory capacity for PCR testing was overwhelmed, delaying the return of results and complicating inpatient infection control measures.

Adaptação e validade de conteúdo da prova de consciência fonológica para Moçambique / Adaptation and content validity of the phonological awareness test for Mozambique / Adaptación y validez de contenido de la prueba de conciencia fonológica para Mozambique

Phonological awareness is a very important skill for performance in reading, writing and mathematics, suggesting that it is monitored and evaluated preferably during preschool as a form of early intervention to prevent learning disabilities after formal education. However, for its assessment it is necessary to have qualified instruments and in Mozambique there is none that assesses this skill. Therefore, this study aimed to culturally adapt the Phonological Awareness Test by Oral production to the Mozambican context and was carried out in two phases: semantic equivalence and content validation. The Content Validity Index was 0.96, although it is considered excellent, further studies need to be carried out to verify other parameters of validity, reliability and standardization. It is expected that the instrument contributes to evaluation and that above all, the skill is part of the activities of stimulation and intervention in preschoolers.

A consciência fonológica é uma habilidade muito importante para o desempenho em leitura, escrita e matemática, sugerindo-se que seja monitorada e avaliada preferencialmente durante a pré-escola como forma de intervenção precoce para prevenção de dificuldades de aprendizagem após o ensino formal. Contudo, para sua avaliação é necessário ter instrumentos qualificados e em Moçambique não existe nenhum que avalia esta habilidade. Portanto, este estudo teve objetivo de realizar adaptação cultural da Prova de Consciência Fonológica por produção Oral para o contexto moçambicano e foi realizado em duas fases: equivalência semântica e validação de conteúdo. O Índice de Validade de Conteúdo foi de 0,96, embora seja considerado ótimo, estudos posteriores precisam ser realizados para verificar outros parâmetros de validade, fidedignidade e normatização. Espera-se que o instrumento contribua para avaliação e que acima de tudo a habilidade faça parte das atividades de estimulação e intervenção em pré-escolares.

La conciencia fonológica es una habilidad muy importante para el desempeño en lectura, escritura y matemáticas, lo que sugiere que se monitorea y evalúa preferiblemente durante el preescolar como una forma de intervención temprana para prevenir dificultades de aprendizaje después de la educación formal. Sin embargo, para su evaluación es necesario contar con instrumentos calificados y en Mozambique no hay ninguno que evalúe esta habilidad. Por lo tanto, este estudio tuvo como objetivo adaptar culturalmente el Test de Conciencia Fonológica por Producción Oral al contexto de Mozambique y se llevó a cabo en dos fases: equivalencia semántica y validación de contenido. El Índice de Validez de Contenido fue de 0.96, aunque se considera excelente, es necesario realizar más estudios para verificar otros parámetros de validez, confiabilidad y estandarización. Se espera que el instrumento contribuya a la evaluación y que sobre todo, la habilidad sea parte de las actividades de estimulación e intervención en preescolares.

Efeitos da pandemia da COVID-19 na saúde mental dos universitários: caso de estudantes da Universidade Rovuma, Moçambique / Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of university students: the case of students from the Rovuma University of Mozambique / Efectos de la pandemia COVID-19 en la salud mental de universitarios: caso de estudiantes de la Universidad Rovuma, Mozambique

Objetivo: avaliar os efeitos da pandemia da COVID-19 na saúde mental dos estudantes universitários da Universidade Rovuma, em Moçambique. Metodologia: é um estudo qualitativo-epistemológico transversal, com o recurso da entrevista semi-estruturada, respondida em 2021por seis estudantes da Universidade Rovuma-Moçambique, matriculados em diversos cursos. As entrevistas foram realizadas na universidade e levaram em média 55 minutos. Resultados: a pandemia da COVID-19 afetou seriamente a saúde mental dos estudantes universitários. O cancelamento das atividades presenciais impostas pela pandemia impactou na rotina dos estudantes por causa da mudança brusca e afastamento de colegas e professores. O medo de contaminação, a incerteza sobre o fim da pandemia e o retorno das aulas e o distanciamento social prolongado fizeram parte dos riscos à saúde mental. Com a retomada das aulas na modalidade remota, muitos estudantes passaram por outras experiências e dificuldades de aceder à plataforma porque muitos deles não possuíam meios (computador, tablet ou telemóvel) e internet de qualidade ou ainda por terem falta de domínio das tecnologias de informação e comunicação. Conclusão: neste período da pandemia da COVID-19, muitos estudantes passaram por experiências de estresse, ansiedade e medo de contaminação da doença. Não existem serviços de atendimento e apoio psicológico dentro da universidade para responder à demanda da pandemia e outras situações que impactam na saúde mental da comunidade universitária. Sugere-se assim que as universidades promovam serviços de apoio psicológico e de suporte social à comunidade acadêmica.

Objective: to evaluate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of university students at RovumaUniversity, in Mozambique. Methods: this is a cross-sectional qualitative-epistemological study, using asemistructured interview, answered in 2021 by six students from the Rovuma University-Mozambique, enrolled in differentcourses. The interviews were conducted at the university and took an average of 55 minutes. Results: the COVID-19 pandemic has seriously affected the mental health of university students. The cancellation of face-to-face activities imposed by the pandemic impacted the routine of students because of the sudden change and distance fromcolleagues and teachers. The fear of contamination, uncertainty about the end of the pandemicandthe return of classes and prolonged social distancing were part of the mental health risks. With the resumption of classes in the remote modality, many students went through other experiences and difficulties in accessing the platform because many of them did not have the means (computer, tablet or mobile phone) and quality internet or because they lacked knowledge of information technologies and communication. Conclusion: in this period of the COVID-19 pandemic, many students went through experiences of stress,anxiety,and fear of contamination bythe disease. There are no psychological care and support services within the university to respond to the demandsof the pandemic and other situations that impact the mental health of the university community. It is therefore suggested that universities promote psychological and social support services to the academic community.

Objetivo: evaluar los efectos de la pandemia de COVID-19 en la salud mental de estudiantes universitarios de la Universidad Rovuma, en Mozambique. Metodología: se trata de un estudio cualitativo-epistemológico transversal, utilizando la entrevista semiestructurada,respondida en 2021 por seis estudiantes de la Universidad Rovuma-Mozambique, matriculados en varios cursos. Las entrevistas se realizaron en la universidad y tomaron un promedio de 55 minutos. Resultados: la pandemia de COVID-19 ha afectado gravemente la salud mental de los estudiantes universitarios. La cancelación de actividades presenciales impuesta por la pandemia impactó en la rutina de los estudiantes por el cambio repentino y retiro de compañeros y docentes. El miedo a la contaminación, la incertidumbre por el fin de la pandemia y el regreso a clases y el distanciamiento social prolongado fueron parte de los riesgos para la salud mental. Con la reanudación de las clases en la modalidad a distancia, muchos estudiantes pasaron por otras experiencias y dificultades para acceder a la plataforma porque muchos de ellos no contaban con los medios (computadora, tableta o celular) e internet de calidad o porque carecían de conocimientos en tecnologías de la información. y Comunicación. Conclusión: en este período de la pandemia de la COVID-19, muchos estudiantes pasaron por experiencias de estrés, ansiedad y miedo a la contaminación de la enfermedad. No existen servicios de atención y apoyo psicológico dentro de la universidad para responder a la demanda de la pandemia y otras situaciones que impactan la salud mental de la comunidad universitaria. Por ello se sugiere que las universidades promuevan servicios de apoyo psicológico y social a la comunidad académica.

Migrações sul-sul: a recente onda de imigrantes zimbabweanos em Tete - Moçambique (2007-2016) / South-south migration: the recent wave of Zimbabwean immigration in Tete − Moçambique (2007-2016) / Migraciones sur-sur: la reciente ola de inmigrantes zimbabuense en Tete − Mozambique (2007-2016)

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a dinâmica das migrações internacionais sul-sul a partir do estudo de caso da recente imigração de zimbabweanos para a província de Tete, Moçambique, historicamente uma região de emigração. Nesse sentido, examinamos as características sociodemográficas desses novos imigrantes, assim como as condições e motivações individuais, familiares e estruturais subjacentes ao fluxo migratório. Para tanto, combinamos dados quantitativos provenientes do Censo moçambicano de 2007 e dos registros de trabalhadores imigrantes da Direção Provincial de Trabalho, Emprego e Segurança Social, com entrevistas semiestruturadas junto aos imigrantes zimbabweanos em Tete. Os resultados indicam uma multiplicidade de fatores que contribuíram para a recente onda de imigração em Tete, com destaque, além das motivações econômicas e de subsistência familiares, para aspectos sociais e culturais relacionados à longa tradição da mobilidade intrarregional na África Austral, facilitada por fronteiras relativamente porosas e fortes laços culturais, linguísticos e de parentesco. Discutimos, também, como a instalação de megaprojetos de mineração com capital brasileiro, em Tete, contribuiu para torná-la atrativa como destino migratório, num contexto em que se assistiam violentas ondas de xenofobia contra imigrantes na África do Sul, principal destino das migrações na região.

This article analyses the dynamics of international South-South migration through the case study of the recent immigration of Zimbabweans to the province of Tete, Mozambique, historically a region of emigration. We examine immigrants' socio-demographic characteristics, as well as the individual, family and structural conditions and motivations underlying this new migration flow. The analysis combines quantitative data from the 2007 Mozambican Census and administrative records for immigrant workers from the Provincial Directorate of Labour, Employment and Social Security, with semi-structured interviews with Zimbabwean immigrants in Tete. The results indicate a multiplicity of factors that contributed to the recent wave of immigration in Tete. In addition to economic and subsistence motivations, social and cultural aspects related to the long tradition of intra-regional mobility in Southern Africa, facilitated by relatively porous borders and strong cultural, linguistic and kinship ties, seem to be important. We also discussed how the installation of mining megaprojects with Brazilian capital in Tete, contributed to its appeal as a migrant destination, in a context in which violent waves of xenophobia against immigrants were occurring in South Africa, the main destination for migrants in the region.

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar la dinámica de la migración internacional sur-sur a partir del estudio de caso de la reciente inmigración de zimbabuenses a la provincia de Tete, Mozambique, históricamente una región de emigración. En este sentido, examinamos las características sociodemográficas de estos nuevos inmigrantes, así como las condiciones y motivaciones individuales, familiares y estructurales inherentes a este flujo migratorio. Para este fin, combinamos datos cuantitativos del censo de Mozambique de 2007 y registros de trabajadores inmigrantes de la Dirección Provincial de Trabajo, Empleo y Seguridad Social, con entrevistas semiestructuradas con inmigrantes zimbabuenses en Tete. Los resultados indican una multiplicidad de factores que contribuyeron a la reciente ola de inmigración en Tete, entre los que se destacan, además de las motivaciones económicas y de subsistencia familiar, aspectos sociales y culturales relacionados con la larga tradición de movilidad intrarregional en el sur de África, facilitada por fronteras relativamente porosas y por fuertes lazos culturales, lingüísticos y de parentesco. También discutimos cómo la instalación de megaproyectos mineros con capital brasileño en Tete contribuyó con su atractivo como destino migratorio, en un contexto en el que se asistía a violentas oleadas de xenofobia contra inmigrantes en Sudáfrica, el principal destino de las migraciones en la región.

Experiência do Comité Nacional de Bioética para a Saúdede Moçambique após Covid-19 / Experience of the National Bioethics Committee for Health of Mozambique after Covid-19

O Comité Nacional de Bioética para a Saúde em Moçambique (CNBS) tem como missão principal fazer a revisão, para aprovação ética, de todas as propostas de pesquisa em saúde, que envolvam seres humanos, realizadas em todo o território nacional, submetidas pelos investigadores, sejam estes nacionais ou estrangeiros. É apresentado, de forma sucinta, os objectivos do Comité Nacional de Bioética para a Saúde de Moçambique e da sua redede Comités Institucionais de Bioética paraa Saúde (CIBS ́s) e o modo do seu funcionamento para garantir o cumprimento dos procedimentos éticos na investigação para protecção do agente de pesquisa e do próprio investigador, bem como desenvolver a formação em bioética para a pesquisa, melhorando e agilizando a comunicação entre os investigadores, promotores ou financiadores destas pesquisas. Com o aparecimento da pandemia deCovid-19,e havendo necessidade destes comités, mais do que nunca, manterem-se em funcionamento, introduziram-se algumas alterações à sua actividade, nomeadamente a passagem para um regime de teletrabalho, a obrigatoriedade dos protocolos de estudo conterem um capítulo (se pertinente) sobre comoenfrentaria no terreno, a situação da Covid-19 e a avaliação expedita, entre outras. Conclui-se com o relato dos resultados desta experiência vivida num período de um ano (Janeiro a Dezembro de 2020).

The main mission of the National Bioethics Committee for Health in Mozambique (CNBS) is to review for ethical approval all health research proposals involving human subjects conducted throughout the national territory submitted by national or foreign researchers. The objectives of the National Bioethics Committee for Health in Mozambique and its network of Institutional Bioethics Committees for Health (CIBS's) are briefly presented, as well as how they function to ensure compliance with ethicalprocedures in research for the protection of the research agent and the researcher himself, as well as to develop training in bioethics for research, improving and streamlining communication between researchers, promoters or funders of such research. Withthe appearance of the Covid-19 pandemic and the need for these Committees, more than ever, to remain functional, some changes were introduced to their activity, namely the change to a teleworking regime, the obligation for study protocols to contain a chapter (if relevant) on how they would deal with the Covid-19 situation in the field and the expedite evaluation, among others. We conclude with the report of the results of this experience lived in a period of one year (January to December 2020)

Nuevo modelo de distribución de mosquiteros impregnados con insecticida y su impacto durante la Campaña de Cobertura Universal en Mozambique, 2017 / New model for the distribution of mosquito nets impregnated with insecticide and its impact during the Universal Coverage Campaign in Mozambique, 2017

Introducción: En 2017 se realizó la Campaña de Cobertura Universal, en que se aplicó el nuevo modelo de distribución de mosquiteros impregnados con insecticida de larga duración, después de las bajas coberturas encontradas en 2015. Objetivo: Caracterizar el nuevo modelo de distribución de mosquiteros con insecticida de larga duración, aplicado en la Campaña 2017, en la provincia de Tete, Mozambique. Métodos: Se realizóun estudio cuantitativo, descriptivo, observacional y transversal. A partir de estadísticas univariadas, se estimó el porcentaje y sus intervalos de confianza del 95 % para los indicadores de registro correctos. Para encontrar la asociación entre los hogares registrados y los hogares de posesión, se calculó el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson (r) y el coeficiente de determinación (R2). Resultados: De los 3 284 hogares evaluados en la etapa de registro, al 98 por ciento se les asignaron calcomanías, al 99 por ciento cupones, y el criterio de adjudicación de mosquiteros impregnados con insecticida de larga duración fue correcto en el 97 por ciento, respectivamente. De los hogares registrados, 1 086 (97 por ciento) tuvieron acceso a al menos un mosquitero impregnado con insecticida de larga duración y 1 041 (92,9 por ciento) durmieron con estos mosquiteros la noche anterior a la encuesta. Conclusiones: La Campaña de Cobertura Universal, utilizando el nuevo modelo de distribución de mosquiteros impregnados con insecticida de larga duración, asegura un adecuado registro de los hogares, lo que ha contribuido al aumento de su posesión y uso, y al avance hacia el logro de las metas de cobertura universal en la comunidad(AU)

Introduction: As part of the Universal Coverage Campaign implemented in 2017, a new model was applied for the distribution of mosquito nets impregnated with long-lasting insecticide. Coverage had been found to be low in 2015. Objective: Characterize the new model for the distribution of mosquito nets impregnated with long-lasting insecticide applied in the 2017 Campaign in Tete Province, Mozambique. Methods: A cross-sectional observational descriptive quantitative study was conducted. Starting from univariate statistics, estimation was made of percentage and its 95 percent confidence intervals for correct registry indicators. Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) and the coefficient of determination (R2) were estimated to find the association between registered and possessing households. Results: Of the 3 284 households evaluated during the registration stage, 98 percent were given stickers and 99 percent received coupons. The criterion followed for the assignment of mosquito nets impregnated with long-lasting insecticide was correct in 97 percent , respectively. Of the households registered, 1 086 (97 percent) had access to at least one mosquito net impregnated with long-lasting insecticide, whereas 1 041 (92 percent) had slept under these mosquito nets the night before the survey. Conclusions: With the use of the new model for the distribution of mosquito nets impregnated with long-lasting insecticide, the Universal Coverage Campaign ensures the appropriate registration of households, contributing to an increase in their possession and use, and the attainment of universal coverage goals in the community(AU)

Tuberculosis space-temporal distribution from 2011 to 2016 in the municipality of Maputo, Mozambique / Distribución espacio-temporal de la tuberculosis de 2011 al 2016 en el municipio de Maputo, Mozambique

Abstract: Objective: Carry out a spatial-temporal characterization of the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in Maputo, Mozambique. Method: a descriptive ecological study of tuberculosis cases reported in an information system. The annual mean incidence rate and the number of TB notification cases in the municipality of Maputo from 2011 to 2016 were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used with calculations of measures of central tendency (mean) and an application of the Poisson linear regression model. Trimester notifications were stratified by district, clinical form, and age group. The quarterly average temperature of the evaluated area was added as a covariate in the model seasonal. Results: 34,623 TB cases were notified from 2011 to 2016, with a trimester average of 1,443 cases. The average annual incidence was higher in the Kampfumo district, with 909.8 per 100 thousand inhabitants (95% CI 854.1 - 968.2); almost twice as much as the incidence of the municipality of Maputo, 527.8 (95% CI 514, 3-541.6), and the country of Mozambique, 551 (95% CI 356 - 787). The clinical diagnosis of the tested cases was higher concerning the bacteriological diagnosis; 44%, and 35%, respectively. Conclusion: Maputo had similar incidence rates to the country of Mozambique, however, there was a heterogeneity rate by district and a reduction in the number of TB cases in both the general population (not co-infected with HIV) and those over 15 years old, being higher in the first trimester.

Resumen: Objetivo: realizar una caracterización espacio-temporal de la incidencia de tuberculosis (TB) en Maputo, Mozambique. Método: estudio ecológico descriptivo de casos de tuberculosis reportados en un sistema de información. Se analizó la tasa de incidencia media anual y el número de casos de notificación de TB en el municipio de Maputo entre 2011 y 2016. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva para calcular las medidas de tendencia central (media) y la aplicación del modelo de regresión lineal de Poisson Las notificaciones trimestrales se estratificaron por distrito, forma clínica y grupo de edad. Resultados: se notificaron 34,623 casos de TB entre 2011 y 2016, con un promedio trimestral de 1,443 casos. La incidencia anual promedio fue mayor en el distrito de Kampfumo, 909.8 por cada 100 mil habitantes (IC 95% 854.1 - 968.2), casi el doble que la incidencia del municipio de Maputo, 527.8 (IC 95% 514 , 3-541.6), y el país de Mozambique, 551 (95% CI 356 - 787). El diagnóstico clínico de los casos fue mayor en relación al diagnóstico bacteriológico, 44% y 35%, respectivamente. Conclusión: Maputo tuvo tasas de incidencia similares a las del país, sin embargo, hubo una heterogeneidad en las tasas por distrito y una reducción en el número de casos de TB en la población general (no coinfectados con VIH) y en los mayores de 15 años, siendo mayores en el primer trimestre.

Antenatal care in Mozambique: Number of visits and gestational age at the beginning of antenatal care / Atención prenatal en Mozambique: número de consultas y edad gestacional al inicio del control prenatal / Assistência ao pré-natal em Moçambique: número de consultas e idade gestacional no início do pré-natal

Objective: 1)to assess the gestational age at the beginning of antenatal care and its covariates; 2)to assess the number of antenatal visits and its covariates; and 3)to identify the reasons for the late initiation of antenatal care and for attending less than four visits among postpartum women living in Nampula, Mozambique. Method: cross-sectional study conducted with 393 mothers who answered a structured instrument in face-to-face interviews. Logistic regression was used to analyze the covariates of having initiated antenatal care up to the 16thgestational week, having attended four or more antenatal visits, and reporting both situations simultaneously. Results: all postpartum women underwent antenatal care, but only 39.9% started it until the 16thgestational week, 49.1% attended four or more visits, and 34.1% reported both events. Having concluded high school (ORadj=1.99; 95%CI=1.19-3.31) or college (ORadj=3.87; 95%CI=1.47-10.18) were aspects associated with reporting both situations. The reasons for the late initiation of antenatal care and attending less than four visits were as follows: not finding it important to attend several visits, not having easy access to the health facility, not being aware about pregnancy, and not having a companion for the visits. Conclusion: the gestational age at the beginning of antenatal care and the number of antenatal visits are lower than the current recommendations in the country.

Objetivo: 1) analizar la edad gestacional al inicio del control prenatal y aspectos asociados; 2) analizar el número de consultas realizadas y aspectos asociados; y 3) identificar las razones del inicio tardío del control prenatal y de la realización de menos de cuatro consultas por parte de las mujeres posparto que residen en Nampula, Mozambique. Método: estudio transversal con 393 puérperas, que respondieron a un instrumento estructurado en entrevistas presenciales. Se utilizó regresión logística para analizar aspectos asociados a haber iniciado el control prenatal como máximo en la semana 16 de gestación, haber asistido a cuatro o más consultas prenatales y reportar ambas situaciones simultáneamente. Resultados: todas las puérperas realizaron el control prenatal, pero solo el 39,9% lo inició como máximo en la semana 16 de gestación; el 49,1% realizó cuatro o más consultas y el 34,1% informó ambos eventos. La educación secundaria (ORaj=1,99; IC95%=1,19-3,31) o la educación superior (ORaj=3,87; IC95% 1,47-10,18) fueron aspectos asociados al informe de ambas situaciones. Las razones del inicio tardío del control prenatal y de la realización de menos de cuatro consultas fueron: no considerar que fuera importante realizar varias consultas, no tener fácil acceso al centro de salud, no saber que estaba embarazada y no tener acompañante para las consultas. Conclusión: la edad gestacional para iniciar el control prenatal y el número de consultas realizadas son inferiores a las recomendaciones vigentes en el país.

Objetivo: 1) analisar a idade gestacional de início do pré-natal e aspectos associados; 2) analisar o número de consultas realizadas e aspectos associados; e 3) identificar as razões para o início tardio do pré-natal e para a realização de menos de quatro consultas entre puérperas residentes em Nampula, Moçambique. Método: estudo transversal com 393 puérperas, que responderam a um instrumento estruturado em entrevistas face a face. Utilizou-se regressão logística para analisar aspectos associados a ter iniciado o pré-natal até 16ª semana de gestação, ter realizado quatro ou mais consultas de pré-natal e relatar as duas situações simultaneamente. Resultados: todas as puérperas realizaram pré-natal, mas apenas 39,9% iniciaram pré-natal até a 16ª semana de gravidez; 49,1% realizaram quatro ou mais consultas e 34,1% relataram ambos eventos. O ensino secundário (ORaj=1,99; IC95%=1,19-3,31;) ou superior (ORaj=3,87; IC95% 1,47-10,18) foram aspectos associados a reportar ambas situações. As razões para início tardio do pré-natal e realização de menos de quatro consultas foram: não achar importante realizar várias consultas, não ter fácil acesso ao centro de saúde, não saber que estava grávida e não ter acompanhante para as consultas. Conclusão: a idade gestacional de início do pré-natal e o número de consultas realizadas são inferiores às recomendações vigentes no país.

Comparative and analysis of the medical assistance from China, Japan, the United States and Europe to the Republic of Mozambique / 国际中医中药杂志

As a natural extension of One Belt and One Road Initiative in Africa, the Republic of Mozambique plays an important role in the spread of Chinese medicine in Africa. By searching for the materials from the official foreign aid agencies of China, Japan, the United States and Europe, this paper compares and analyzes the current situation of medical aid to Mozambique by China, Japan, the United States and Europe. It is found that Japan, the United States and Europe focus on basic health facilities, social vulnerable groups, local epidemic diseases and other grassroots assistance. Finally, it proposes to set up projects that cater to the needs of recipient countries and strengthen the exchange of traditional medicine to seek multilateral aid cooperation and develop medical aid based on project audience. We hope that we can learn from others, so that China’s medical aid to Mozambique and thus to Africa could be more comprehensive, and the spread of Traditional Chinese Medicine could be spreaded in Africa.

Pathological, microbiological and immunohistochemical characterization of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique

ABSTRACT: Avian colibacillosis is an acute and globally occurring infectious disease of domestic and wild birds caused by Escherichia coli, and it is associated with considerable economic losses mainly due to the morbidity and mortality associated. The present study aimed to describe the pathological, bacteriological and immunohistochemical aspects of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique. Forty-nine broiler chicken presented anorexia, decreased weight gain, ataxia, diarrhea, dyspnea, and death in a clinical course of 3-5 days. The birds were raised in five farms (small, medium and large farms) with manual and automatic breeding system, with flocks ranging from 100 to 20,000 birds. At the necropsy, all birds had poor body condition, and the pericardium and the Glissons capsule of all avian exhibited different degrees of adherence often associated with severe fibrin deposition. The thoracic and abdominal air sacs were thickened and adhered to the costal wall. Mild, moderate or marked hepatomegaly associated with white pinpoint multifocal areas (100%, 49/49) and mild to moderate splenomegaly in 75.5% (37/49) with a mottled surface were observed. The lungs and kidney were enlarged and reddish. Histologically, a multiorgan fibrinoheterophilic polyserositis was observed in 75.5% of the cases (37/49), which were characterized by inflammatory infiltrates composed mainly of degenerative heterophils, macrophages and plasma cells, associated with fibrin deposits and intermixed by coccobacillary bacterial basophilic aggregates. These affected mainly the pericardium (28.6%, 14/49), the pleura (18.4%, 9/49), the Glissons capsule (10.2%, 5/49), the ventriculus (10.2, 5/33), and the proventriculus (8.2%, 4/49) serosa. Multifocal to coalescing areas of coagulative necrosis associated with similar inflammatory cells were observed mainly in the spleen (28.6%, 14/49), liver (24.5%, 12/49), and intestines (22.4%, 11/49). A similar infiltrate was also observed affecting the the lungs (16.3%, 8/49), the kidney (16.3%, 8/49) and the myocardium (14.3%, 7/49). Isolation and identification of E. coli was obtained in 12 cases through bacterial culture. Some organs (2 cases of each farms) were selected and submitted to immunohistochemistry anti-E. coli, and a positive stain was observed in all tested cases in liver (3/3), heart (4/4), spleen (1/1), lungs (4/4), intestines (4/4), bursa of Fabricius (1/1), ventriculus (1/1), and proventriculus (1/1) tissue sections. These results demonstrate that E. coli was the cause of mortality in these birds. Therefore, biosecurity and management measures should be employed to prevent and control the disease occurrence in Mozambiques poultry farming.

RESUMO: A colibacilose aviária é uma doença aguda de ocorrência mundial que acomete aves domésticas e silvestres, causada por Escherichia coli e resulta em perdas econômicas consideráveis devido à elevada morbidade e mortalidade das aves. O presente estudo teve o objetivo de descrever os aspectos patológicos, bacteriológicos e imuno-histoquímicos de colibacilose aviária em frangos de corte de Moçambique. Um total de 49 frangos de corte apresentaram anorexia, baixo ganho de peso, ataxia, diarreia, dispneia e morte em um curso clínico de 3 a 5 dias. As aves eram provenientes de 5 granjas (pequenas, média e grandes), com sistema de criação manual e automático, com rebanhos que variavam de 100 a 20.000 aves. À necropsia, todas as aves exibiam condição corporal ruim a caquética, além de pericárdio e cápsula de Glisson de todas aves (100%; n=49) com diferentes graus de aderência e deposição de fibrina de forma difusa acentuada. Os sacos aéreos torácicos e abdominais estavam espessados e aderidos à parede costal. Foi observado ainda hepatomegalia discreta, moderada a severa frequentemente associada com áreas multifocais puntiformes brancacentas (100%; 49/49), e esplenomegalia discreta a moderada, associado a áreas multifocais moteadas (75,5%; 37/49). Os pulmões e rins estavam aumentados e com coloração avermelhada. Histologicamente, observou-se majoritariamente serosite fibrinoheterofílica em 75,5% dos casos (37/49), caracterizadas por infiltrado inflamatório composto por heterófilos degenerados, macrófagos, linfócitos e plasmócitos, com deposição de fibrina entremeada por uma miríade de estruturas bacterianas cocobacilares. Esta lesão foi observada principalmente em pericárdio (28,6%; 14/49), pleura (18,4%; 9/49), cápsula de Glisson (10,2%; 5/49), ventrículo (10,2; 5/33) e em proventrículo (8,2%; 4/49). Áreas multifocais a coalescentes de necrose de coagulação associada a infiltrado inflamatório semelhante ao descrito foi observado principalmente no baço (28,6%; 14/49), fígado (24.5%; 12/49), e intestinos (8,2%; 4/49). Um infiltrado inflamatório semelhante também foi visualizado em pulmões (16,3%; 8/49), rins (16,3%; 8/49) e miocárdio (14,3%; 7/49), Colônias puras de E. coli foram identificadas e isoladas em 12 casos. Alguns órgãos (2 de cada granja) foram submetidos ao exame imuno-histoquímico anti-E. coli e marcação positiva foi visualizada em todos casos testados, como em fígado (3/3), coração (4/4), baço (1/1), pulmão (4/4), intestinos (4/4), bursa de Fabricius (1/1), rim (1/1), ventrículo (1/1) e proventrículo (1/1). Estes resultados demonstram que E. coli foi a causa de morte destas aves. Sendo assim, a adoção de boas medidas de biosseguridade e de manejo são indispensáveis para a prevenção e controle da ocorrência da doença nas granjas de frango de corte de Moçambique.

Pathological, microbiological and immunohistochemical characterization of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique / Caracterização patológica, microbiológica e imuno-histoquímica de colibacilose em frangos de corte de Moçambique

Avian colibacillosis is an acute and globally occurring infectious disease of domestic and wild birds caused by Escherichia coli, and it is associated with considerable economic losses mainly due to the morbidity and mortality associated. The present study aimed to describe the pathological, bacteriological and immunohistochemical aspects of avian colibacillosis in broiler chickens of Mozambique. Forty-nine broiler chicken presented anorexia, decreased weight gain, ataxia, diarrhea, dyspnea, and death in a clinical course of 3-5 days. The birds were raised in five farms (small, medium and large farms) with manual and automatic breeding system, with flocks ranging from 100 to 20,000 birds. At the necropsy, all birds had poor body condition, and the pericardium and the Glisson's capsule of all avian exhibited different degrees of adherence often associated with severe fibrin deposition. The thoracic and abdominal air sacs were thickened and adhered to the costal wall. Mild, moderate or marked hepatomegaly associated with white pinpoint multifocal areas (100%, 49/49) and mild to moderate splenomegaly in 75.5% (37/49) with a mottled surface were observed. The lungs and kidney were enlarged and reddish. Histologically, a multiorgan fibrinoheterophilic polyserositis was observed in 75.5% of the cases (37/49), which were characterized by inflammatory infiltrates composed mainly of degenerative heterophils, macrophages and plasma cells, associated with fibrin deposits and intermixed by coccobacillary bacterial basophilic aggregates. These affected mainly the pericardium (28.6%, 14/49), the pleura (18.4%, 9/49), the Glisson's capsule (10.2%, 5/49), the ventriculus (10.2, 5/33), and the proventriculus (8.2%, 4/49) serosa. Multifocal to coalescing areas of coagulative necrosis associated with similar inflammatory cells were observed mainly in the spleen (28.6%, 14/49), liver (24.5%, 12/49), and intestines (22.4%, 11/49). A similar infiltrate was also observed affecting the the lungs (16.3%, 8/49), the kidney (16.3%, 8/49) and the myocardium (14.3%, 7/49). Isolation and identification of E. coli was obtained in 12 cases through bacterial culture. Some organs (2 cases of each farms) were selected and submitted to immunohistochemistry anti-E. coli, and a positive stain was observed in all tested cases in liver (3/3), heart (4/4), spleen (1/1), lungs (4/4), intestines (4/4), bursa of Fabricius (1/1), ventriculus (1/1), and proventriculus (1/1) tissue sections. These results demonstrate that E. coli was the cause of mortality in these birds. Therefore, biosecurity and management measures should be employed to prevent and control the disease occurrence in Mozambique's poultry farming.(AU)

A colibacilose aviária é uma doença aguda de ocorrência mundial que acomete aves domésticas e silvestres, causada por Escherichia coli e resulta em perdas econômicas consideráveis devido à elevada morbidade e mortalidade das aves. O presente estudo teve o objetivo de descrever os aspectos patológicos, bacteriológicos e imuno-histoquímicos de colibacilose aviária em frangos de corte de Moçambique. Um total de 49 frangos de corte apresentaram anorexia, baixo ganho de peso, ataxia, diarreia, dispneia e morte em um curso clínico de 3 a 5 dias. As aves eram provenientes de 5 granjas (pequenas, média e grandes), com sistema de criação manual e automático, com rebanhos que variavam de 100 a 20.000 aves. À necropsia, todas as aves exibiam condição corporal ruim a caquética, além de pericárdio e cápsula de Glisson de todas aves (100%; n=49) com diferentes graus de aderência e deposição de fibrina de forma difusa acentuada. Os sacos aéreos torácicos e abdominais estavam espessados e aderidos à parede costal. Foi observado ainda hepatomegalia discreta, moderada a severa frequentemente associada com áreas multifocais puntiformes brancacentas (100%; 49/49), e esplenomegalia discreta a moderada, associado a áreas multifocais moteadas (75,5%; 37/49). Os pulmões e rins estavam aumentados e com coloração avermelhada. Histologicamente, observou-se majoritariamente serosite fibrinoheterofílica em 75,5% dos casos (37/49), caracterizadas por infiltrado inflamatório composto por heterófilos degenerados, macrófagos, linfócitos e plasmócitos, com deposição de fibrina entremeada por uma miríade de estruturas bacterianas cocobacilares. Esta lesão foi observada principalmente em pericárdio (28,6%; 14/49), pleura (18,4%; 9/49), cápsula de Glisson (10,2%; 5/49), ventrículo (10,2; 5/33) e em proventrículo (8,2%; 4/49). Áreas multifocais a coalescentes de necrose de coagulação associada a infiltrado inflamatório semelhante ao descrito foi observado principalmente no baço (28,6%; 14/49), fígado (24.5%; 12/49), e intestinos (8,2%; 4/49). Um infiltrado inflamatório semelhante também foi visualizado em pulmões (16,3%; 8/49), rins (16,3%; 8/49) e miocárdio (14,3%; 7/49), Colônias puras de E. coli foram identificadas e isoladas em 12 casos. Alguns órgãos (2 de cada granja) foram submetidos ao exame imuno-histoquímico anti-E. coli e marcação positiva foi visualizada em todos casos testados, como em fígado (3/3), coração (4/4), baço (1/1), pulmão (4/4), intestinos (4/4), bursa de Fabricius (1/1), rim (1/1), ventrículo (1/1) e proventrículo (1/1). Estes resultados demonstram que E. coli foi a causa de morte destas aves. Sendo assim, a adoção de boas medidas de biosseguridade e de manejo são indispensáveis para a prevenção e controle da ocorrência da doença nas granjas de frango de corte de Moçambique.(AU)

Difficulties in the Diagnosis of Gaucher Disease in a Low-Income Country: A Case Report from Mozambique

Abstract Introduction: Gaucher disease (GD) is one of the common lysosomal storage disorder (LSD) with an estimated frequency of one in 40,000 newborns globally. GD is an autosomal recessive condition, which results from mutations in the GBA1 gene, causing partial or complete deficiency of β-glucocerebrosidase enzyme activity, which leads to the widespread accumulation of the substrate glucosylceramide. Aims: This report presents different challenges of clinical management and communication between medical specialties to reach diagnose of any rare disease in Mozambique, a low-income country, which health system has limited infrastructure, trained personnel, and budget for diagnosis and to provide treatment for rare genetic disorders such as GD. Case Presentation: The patient was a 15-year old black female patient of Mozambican nationality born from non-consanguineous parents. Three of the four patient's siblings were healthy; one sister had died of a disease with a similar clinical features. Our patient presented with abdominal distention and hepatosplenomegaly. Blood tests revealed pancytopenia and a high level of ferritin. Liver biopsy and histologic examination revealed infiltration of the splenic parenchyma and portal area of the liver as well as enlarged histiocytic cells with granular cytoplasm. Magnetic resonance imaging showed liver enlargement, changes in the femoral heads without osteonecrosis, a pathological fracture of the third thoracic vertebrae (T3), with absence of brain and spinal cord neurological abnormalities. The biochemical investigation disclosed low levels of β-glucocerebrosidase (0.223 nmol/h/ml; normal: above 0.98) and increased levels of lyso-Gb1 (0.43 µg/ml; normal: up to 0.003). Genotyping of the GBA1 gene indicated the presence of the pathogenic variant p.Arg87Trp (R48W) in homozygosis. Discussion and Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this report describes the first case of GD type 1 confirmed via biochemical and molecular genetic testing in Mozambique. As awareness of the GD and rare genetic diseases among Mozambican health professionals is very limited, and resources for diagnosis are scarce in the national health system, it is possible that other cases remain undiagnosed in this low-income country.

Depresión en pacientes con diabetes mellitus y su relación con el control glucémico / Depression in patients with diabetes mellitus and its relationship with the glycemic control

Introducción: Algunos estudios resaltan la presencia de manifestaciones psiquiátricas en pacientes con diabetes mellitus. La depresión es el trastorno mental más frecuente en diabéticos; se considera que 1 de cada 3 pacientes con diabetes tienen depresión y, a su vez, el riesgo de tener un trastorno depresivo es 2 veces mayor que en la población general. Objetivo: Identificar algunos factores asociados con la depresión en pacientes diabéticos y su efecto en el control glucémico. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal de 457 pacientes diabéticos, atendidos en el Hospital Central de Nampula, Mozambique, desde marzo de 2014 hasta diciembre de 2016. Como principales variables figuraron: frecuencia de los síntomas de depresión, trastornos depresivos, características sociodemográficas, eventos vitales actuales y control glucémico. Se utilizó el porcentaje como medida de resumen y como estadística inferencial la prueba de X2 de independencia y odds ratio, con un intervalo de confianza de 95 %. Resultados: La frecuencia de síntomas de depresión y de trastornos depresivos en la consulta externa fue de 32,3 y 24,3 %, respectivamente. Los factores mayormente asociados con la depresión fueron: el sexo femenino, estar viudo o divorciado y ser ama de casa. Por otra parte, experimentar 2 o más eventos vitales actuales incrementó la probabilidad de depresión y esta última se asoció con un mal control glucémico (p<0,05). Conclusiones: La frecuencia de depresión en pacientes diabéticos es elevada y está asociada con algunas variables sociodemográficas, con eventos vitales actuales y con un mal control glucémico.

Introduction: Some studies emphasize the presence of psychiatric signs in patients with diabetes mellitus. The depression is the most frequent mental disorder in diabetic patients; it is considered that 1 out of 3 patients with diabetes have depression and, in turn, the risk of having a depressive disorder is 2 times higher than in the general population. Objective: To identify some factors associated with the depression in diabetic patients and their effect in the glycemic control. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study of 457 diabetic patients, assisted in the Central Hospital of Nampula, Mozambique, was carried out from March, 2014 to December, 2016. As main variables we can mention: frequency of the depression symptoms, depressive disorders, sociodemographic characteristics, current vital events and glycemic control. The percentage was used as summary measure and as inference statistics the chi-squared test of independence and odds ratio, with a 95 % confidence interval. Results: The frequency of depression symptoms and depressive disorders in the outpatient service was 32.3 and 24.3 %, respectively. The factors mostly associated with the depression were: the female sex, being widower or divorced and being a housewife. On the other hand, to experience 2 or more current vital events increased the depression probability and the latter was associated with a poor glycemic control (p <0.05). Conclusions: The frequency of depression in diabetic patients is high and it is associated with some sociodemographic variables, with current vital events and with a poor glycemic control.

História do esporte em Moçambique: um olhar dos profissionais de Educação Física / History of sport in Mozambique: una visión de los profesionales de la Educación Física / Historia de lo deporte en Mozambique: a vision of teachers and managers of Physical Education

Propomos com este escrito apresentar a evolução histórica da estrutura do esporte em Moçambique. Para tanto, foram selecionados três professores e quatro dirigentes que viveram a história e a evolução da área da Educação Física (EF) e esporte no país. Utilizamos documentos históricos e entrevista semiestruturada com os participantes. A análise de conteúdo foi utilizada para análise e interpretação dos materiais encontrados e das entrevistas. O contexto sociocultural da EF e esporte em Moçambique foram marcados por dois períodos históricos: a era colonial (1927-1974), na qual se estabeleceram as bases para a estruturação da EF vigente em Moçambique e a era pós-independência (1975-2016), caracterizada pela regulamentação, criação de políticas e formação de profissionais de EF e esporte visando a dinamização da área. Nesse processo, apesar das condições sociais e econômicas precárias vivenciadas no período colonial e pós-independência, o governo moçambicano desempenhou um papel mediador que contribuiu para o desenvolvimento da área.

We propose with this work to present the historical evolution of the structure of sport in Mozambique. For this, three teachers and four leaders who lived the history and evolution of Physical Education (PE) and sports in the country were selected. We use historical documents and semi-structured interviews with the participants. The content analysis was used to analyze and interpret the found materials and interviews. The socio-cultural context of FF and sport in Mozambique was marked by two historical periods: the colonial era (1927-1974), which laid the foundations for the structuring of existing FGs in Mozambique and the post-independence era (1975- 2016), which is characterized by regulation, the formulation of policies and the training of PE and sports professionals oriented to promote the area. In this process, despite the precarious social and economic conditions experienced in the colonial period and after independence, the Mozambican government played a mediating role that contributed to the development of the area.

Proponemos con este trabajo presentar la evolución histórica de la estructura del deporte en Mozambique. Para ello, se seleccionaron tres maestros y cuatro líderes que vivieron la historia y evolución de la Educación Física (PE) y los deportes en el país. Utilizamos documentos históricos y entrevistas semiestructuradas con los participantes. El análisis de contenido se utilizó para analizar e interpretar los materiales encontrados y las entrevistas. El contexto sociocultural de la FF y el deporte en Mozambique estuvo marcado por dos periodos históricos: la era colonial (1927-1974), que sentó las bases para la estructuración de los grupos existentes en Mozambique y la era posterior a la independencia (1975-2016) , que se caracteriza por la regulación, la formulación de políticas y la capacitación de profesionales de la educación física y del deporte orientados a promover el área. En este proceso, a pesar de las precarias condiciones sociales y económicas experimentadas en el período colonial y después de la independencia, el gobierno de Mozambique desempeñó un papel mediador que contribuyó al desarrollo del área.

Desafios para a Adesão ao TARV na Perspectiva dos Profissionais do Sistema de Saúde de Moçambique / Challenges for Adherence to Antiretroviral Treatment from the Perspective of Health System Professionals in Mozambique

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi compreender quais são os principais desafios para adesão ao tratamento antirretroviral em Moçambique na perspectiva dos profissionais de saúde que lidam com a temática do HIV/aids no país. O estudo é qualitativo, observacional e exploratório. Entrevistas semiestruturadas foram realizadas com 11 profissionais de saúde que prestam assistência em HIV/aids em sete das onze províncias do país. Os dados foram analisados por meio da técnica de análise do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. Os resultados foram categorizados em nove ideias centrais. Dentre os problemas mencionados pelos profissionais estão aspectos relacionados à cultura local, ao receio da revelação forçada do diagnóstico de HIV positivo a terceiros, à ausência de uma adequada compreensão sobre os benefícios do tratamento, à forma de organização dos serviços de saúde, a questões de gênero, a aspectos sociais como fome, dificuldades financeiras e problemas com transporte, dentre outros.

Abstract The goal of the study was to understand the main challenges for adherence to antiretroviral treatment in Mozambique from the perspective of health professionals who deal with HIV/AIDS. The study is qualitative, observational, and exploratory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 health professionals who provide HIV/AIDS assistance in seven of the country's eleven provinces. Data analysis was based on the Discourse of the Collective Subject. Results were categorized into nine central ideas. Among the problems mentioned by health professionals there are aspects related to culture, the fear of forced disclosure of HIV positive diagnosis, the absence of an adequate understanding of the benefits of treatment, the way health services are organized, gender issues, and social aspects such as hunger, financial difficulties and problems with transportation, among others.

Molecular and serological characterization of occult hepatitis B among blood donors in Maputo, Mozambique

BACKGROUND Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) - characterized by the absence of detectable HBsAg in the presence of HBV DNA - represents a potential threat for blood safety. OBJECTIVES This study was conducted with the aim to investigate the serological and molecular characterization of occult HBV infection (OBI) among blood donors in Mozambique. METHODS 1,502 blood donors were tested for HBsAg. All HBsAg-negative individuals were tested for HBV DNA. Antibodies against HBV core, surface and HBe antigen (anti-HBc, anti-HBs, HBeAg) were measured in HBV DNA positive individuals. FINDINGS 1435 serum samples were HBsAg negative and 16 positive for HBV DNA, 14 confirmed to have OBI, corresponding to a frequency of 0.98%. Of the 14 OBI infections identified, 13/14 (92.8%) were positive for anti-HBc, 4/14 (28.5%) for anti-HBs, and no samples were reactive for HBeAg. Of the 14 OBI cases, nine samples (64.2%) were sequenced for the S/P region. Eight samples (88.9%) belonged to genotype A1 and one (11.1%) to genotype E. One escape mutation (T123A) associated with OBI and various amino acid substitutions for genotype A1 and E were observed. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Our results show the importance of using nucleic acid amplification test to detect occult hepatitis B infection in blood donors in Mozambique.

Hansen's disease deformities in a high risk area in Mozambique: A case study

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Hansen's disease is no longer a public health problem in Mozambique, since 2008 (incidence under 1 / 10,000 inhabitants). The country is one of the most affected in the world and Nampula province's Murrupula district (incidence 1.7 / 10,000) has a high deformity rate (22% in 2010). This study aimed to identify high deformity rate associated determinants and proposals for better health program results. METHODS: This study involved a descriptive quantitative survey, systematic observation of patients and health professionals, and a survey of community volunteers. Data were analyzed using Epi Info 7.2. Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact test were used to assess statistical association with deformity, with a significance level of 5% and 95% confidence interval. Ethical procedures followed the Helsinki declaration (2013). RESULTS: Among 238 subjects, 175 were patients and 63 leprosy health staff. Most patients relied on subsistence agriculture facing social exclusion (43, 25%). The waiting time from first symptoms to diagnosis was over one year for 63%. Deformity affected 116 subjects (68%), particularly those who considered the disease as God's desire (p = 0.01), and practiced traditional treatments (p = 0.001). Among leprosy health staff, 35 (52%) were not trained on diagnosis and management. CONCLUSIONS: High deformity rate is associated with low economic status, the belief that the disease is God's desire, the use of traditional healers, late diagnosis, and poor disease management. A health education program targeting professionals and population, with infection screening and self-care groups can prevent deformities.

La Violencia de Género en el Hospital General Polana Cañizo, Maputo, Mozambique / Gender Violence at General Hospital Polana Cañizo, Maputo, Mozambique

Introducción: la violencia contra las mujeres y niñas incluye maltrato físico, psicológico económico y el abuso sexual. Generalmente se le conoce como violencia "basada en el género", de acuerdo a la subordinación social de la mujer. Objetivo: caracterizar la violencia de género en el Hospital Polana Cañizo, según las variables sociodemográficas y biomédicas. Método: un estudio transversal en el Hospital General Polana Cañizo, provincia de Maputo, Mozambique, en el período de enero a junio del 2017. La muestra estuvo constituida por 217 mujeres víctimas de violencia. El universo fue de 1 555, atendidas en el Centro de Atención a Víctimas de Violencia (CAVV) de esta área. La información se recolectó del modelo oficial de la ficha de notificación de casos de violencia, elaborada e implementada por el Ministerio de Salud de Mozambique. Resultados: el grupo de 24 a 29 años fue el más afectado por la violencia doméstica con el 57,61%, de estos el 64,98% y el 23,96% amas de casa y estudiantes respectivamente, fueron los grupos que expuestos a un mayor grado de violencia. Predominaron las mujeres solteras para un 67,75%. El 68,67% de las agresiones ocurrieron dentro de sus domicilios y el 85,71% de los casos fue mediante violencia física. Conclusiones: la violencia física predominó en mujeres jóvenes, solteras y amas de casa, generalmente dentro de sus domicilios. Se recomienda elaborar estrategias de intervención para la prevención de la violencia contra las mujeres.

Introduction: violence against women and girls includes physical, sexual, psychological and economic abuse. It generally reffers to a"gender-based" violence developed by the subordinate status of women in society. Objective: to characterize gender violence at the Polana Cañizo Hospital, according to sociodemographic and biomedical variables. Method: cross-sectional study at the Polana Cañizo General Hospital, Maputo province, Mozambique was carried out, from January to June 2017. Sample were 217 victims, and the universe were 1,555 attended at the Center of Attention to Victims of Violence (CAVV) of this area. The information was collected from the official model of Violence Cases Notification Cards held by the Ministry of Health of Mozambique. Results: the group from 24 to 29 years old was the most affected by domestic violence with 57.61%. Housewives and students represented 64.98% and 23.96% each. Both suffered the greatest violence. Single women predominated with 67.75%. Most of the attacks occurred at home with 68.67% were physical up to 85.71%. Conclusions: physical violence predominated in young housewives single women, inside their homes. It is recommended to develop intervention strategies for the prevention of violence against women.