@article{103813,
  keywords = {Mass drug administration, community influencers, Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), South Sudan},
  author = {Renfroe S and Peter A and Faramand T and Rukab E and Pensotti C and Roberts S and Nyara J and Pappa S and Bol Y and Ssegawa E and Assefa L and Camara S},
  title = {Engaging community influencers to increase mass drug administration uptake for neglected tropical diseases in South Sudan.},
  abstract = {<p>South Sudan is endemic for all preventive chemotherapy neglected tropical diseases, and counties including Awerial, Kapoeta North and Kajo-Keji face persistent transmission and high absenteeism and refusal rates for mass drug administration (MDA). To identify barriers, we conducted a mixed-methods root cause analysis (combining a quantitative KoboToolbox survey with focus group discussions and key informant interviews), using WI-HER's identify, design, apply/assess, record, and expand (iDARE) methodology with gender equity and social inclusion (GESI) at its core. Fundamental to our approach, we trained community-selected influencers (local leaders and respected community figures) in GESI principles and behavior change techniques, supporting them to co-design and implement locally contextualized solutions. Following influencer-led engagement in Awerial County, cohort members demonstrated a 90.9% improvement in MDA uptake. This pilot project demonstrates that sustainable increases in MDA coverage require a community-grounded approach that integrates localized barrier analysis, GESI-informed influencer training and ongoing community engagement.</p>},
  year = {2026},
  journal = {International health},
  pages = {1 - 6},
  month = {07/2026},
  issn = {1876-3405},
  url = {https://academic.oup.com/inthealth/advance-article-pdf/doi/10.1093/inthealth/ihag040/68746003/ihag040.pdf},
  doi = {10.1093/inthealth/ihag040},
  language = {ENG},
}