Estimating the Disability Weight for Schistosomiasis Japonica
Author Information
Author(s): Julia L. Finkelstein, Mark D. Schleinitz, Hélène Carabin, Stephen T. McGarvey
Primary Institution: Harvard School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Current Global Burden of Disease estimates significantly underestimate the burden of schistosomiasis, particularly for Schistosoma japonicum.
Conclusion
The study found that the disability weight for Schistosoma japonicum is much higher than previously estimated, indicating a greater burden of disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Schistosomiasis is one of the most prevalent parasitic infections worldwide, affecting over 207 million people.
- Current estimates of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost due to schistosomiasis are significantly lower than the findings of this study.
- The study's disability weight estimates for S. japonicum were found to be seven to 46 times greater than current Global Burden of Disease measures.
Takeaway
Schistosomiasis is a disease that affects many people, and this study shows it causes more problems than we thought, especially for kids and older people.
Methodology
The study used a decision model to estimate disability weights based on a systematic review of literature regarding morbidity data for Schistosoma japonicum.
Potential Biases
There is a risk of underestimating the burden due to the exclusion of certain morbidities and reliance on available literature.
Limitations
The analysis was limited by the availability of studies, potential publication bias, and the exclusion of certain morbidities and mortality-related outcomes.
Participant Demographics
The study included data from various populations affected by Schistosoma japonicum, primarily in endemic regions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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