Linda Bonezzi’s research while affiliated with University of Pisa and other places

Background Cerebral palsy is a group of nonprogressive motor disorders resulting from early brain development impairment. Its prevalence is higher in low- and middle-income countries, where health care resources are limited. Data on cerebral palsy in refugee settings remain scarce, particularly in regions marked by prolonged displacement. Methods This cross-sectional study examined 29 children with cerebral palsy in the Sahrawi refugee camps in Tindouf, Algeria. Detailed demographic, medical history, neurological findings, and comorbidity data were collected during outpatient visits conducted as part of a humanitarian mission. Results Perinatal distress was reported in 65.5% of cases. Motor impairments were significant, with only 44.8% able to walk and 20.7% lacking head control. Language delays (65.5%), feeding difficulties (65.5%), and epilepsy (52%) were highly prevalent. Diagnostic evaluations, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and electroencephalography (EEG), were scarce and inconsistent. Access to rehabilitation services was discontinuous, and pharmacologic treatments for spasticity and pain were unavailable. Environmental factors, such as sandy terrain, further complicated mobility. Conclusion Cerebral palsy in the Sahrawi refugee camps reflects patterns seen in low- and middle-income countries but is exacerbated by displacement and resource scarcity. Improved access to early diagnosis, structured rehabilitation, and targeted pharmacologic therapies is urgently needed to address these unmet needs and improve outcomes for affected children.

Background/Objectives: The prevalence of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in children is a growing concern in developed countries. However, data from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) remain scarce. The objective of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of such conditions in the school-aged children residing in Sahrawi refugee camps. In particular, the objective was to develop a bespoke screening instrument for the collection of epidemiological data and the examination of the impact of these disorders on academic performance and school life. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in 13 primary schools within Sahrawi refugee camps, with a target sample size of 3425 children aged 7–14. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was administered to teachers to identify any neurodevelopmental issues. Results: A total of 74 (2.2% [95% CI: 1.7–2.7%]) of the 3425 children displayed positive SDQ results for neurodevelopmental or psychiatric difficulties. The most frequently identified issues were emotional and conduct problems, which often co-occurred. Boys exhibited higher hyperactivity rates than girls. Conclusions: This study’s findings revealed significant neurodevelopmental and psychiatric challenges in Sahrawi children, with implications for their academic and social development. The results emphasize the necessity of enhancing teacher training and mental health interventions to facilitate early identification and support.

Background/Objectives: Epilepsy is a major public health issue in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among children, due to limited healthcare resources, socioeconomic inequalities, and cultural stigma that often result in underdiagnosis and undertreatment. This review examines pediatric epilepsy’s diagnosis, classification, and management in this setting, highlighting the need for culturally appropriate interventions to improve care quality and address these challenges. Methods: A review of the literature was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify pertinent studies published between 2013 and 2024. This review included studies examining the epidemiology, seizure classification and etiologies of epilepsy among children in Sub-Saharan Africa. Results: This review revealed higher incidence and prevalence of epilepsy in Sub-Saharan Africa compared to high-income countries, primarily attributable to factors such as infectious diseases, perinatal injuries, and limited diagnostic resources. The most frequently reported types of epilepsy were generalized and focal seizures, with significant etiological contributions from structural and infectious causes, including nodding syndrome and HIV-related epilepsy. The treatment gap remains considerable, with up to 80% of children not receiving appropriate antiseizure medications. Conclusions: The diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy in pediatric populations in Sub-Saharan Africa is complicated by several factors, including cultural stigma and the lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure. There is an urgent need for culturally tailored diagnostic tools, improved access to affordable treatments, and public health initiatives aimed at reducing stigma. Addressing these gaps through enhanced research, improved healthcare access, and targeted educational campaigns is crucial for improving the quality of life for children with epilepsy.