Risk factors for buruli ulcer in Ghana-a case control study in the Suhum-Kraboa-Coaltar and Akuapem South Districts of the eastern region.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Buruli ulcer (BU) is a skin disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. Its exact mode of transmission is not known. Previous studies have identified demographic, socio-economic, health and hygiene as well as environment related risk factors. We investigated whether the same factors pertain in Suhum-Kraboa-Coaltar (SKC) and Akuapem South (AS) Districts in Ghana which previously were not endemic for BU.

Methods

We conducted a case control study. A case of BU was defined as any person aged 2 years or more who resided in study area (SKC or AS District) diagnosed according to the WHO clinical case definition for BU and matched with age- (+/-5 years), gender-, and community controls. A structured questionnaire on host, demographic, environmental, and behavioural factors

SUBMITTER: Kenu E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4238991 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature