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Modelling the spatial distribution of mycetoma in Sudan

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Version 2 2023-06-12, 09:50
Version 1 2023-06-09, 23:43
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-12, 09:50 authored by Rowa Hassan, Hope Simpson, Jorge Cano, Sahar Bakhiet, Eltayeb Ganawa, Daniel Argaw, Melanie NewportMelanie Newport, Kebede Kassaye, Ahmed Hassan Fahal
Background Mycetoma is a neglected tropical disease that is reported worldwide and Sudan has the highest reported number of mycetoma infections across the globe. The incidence, prevalence and burden of mycetoma globally are not precisely known and its risk factors remain largely unelucidated. Methods This study aimed to identify the environmental predictors of fungal and bacterial mycetoma in Sudan and to identify areas of the country where these niche predictors are met. Demographic and clinical data from confirmed mycetoma patients seen at the Mycetoma Research Centre from 1991 to 2018 were included in this study. Regression and machine learning techniques were used to model the relationships between mycetoma occurrence in Sudan and environmental predictors. Results The strongest predictors of mycetoma occurrence were aridity, proximity to water, low soil calcium and sodium concentrations and the distribution of various species of thorny trees. The models predicted the occurrence of eumycetoma and actinomycetoma in the central and southeastern states of Sudan and along the Nile river valley and its tributaries. Conclusion Our results showed that the risk of mycetoma in Sudan varies geographically and is linked to identifiable environmental risk factors. Suitability maps are intended to guide health authorities, academic institutes and organisations involved in planning national scale surveys for early case detection and management, leading to better patient treatment, prevention and control of mycetoma.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Published version

Journal

Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

ISSN

0035-9203

Publisher

Oxford University Press

Page range

1-9

Department affiliated with

  • Global Health and Infection Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2021-04-27

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2021-06-16

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2021-04-26

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