Nodding syndrome: bridging the gap-a scoping review protocol.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Nodding syndrome (NS) is a debilitating neurological disorder of unknown origin affecting children aged 3-15 years.
• First reported in the 1950s, NS predominantly impacts the Acholi community in Uganda, with cases also in Tanzania and South Sudan.
• Despite a government management algorithm, access to care is limited, and research funding is scarce, hindering progress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive scoping review of Nodding Syndrome (NS) literature.
• To provide a broad overview of the current state of knowledge on NS.
• To identify critical research gaps and inform future research, intervention strategies, and health policies.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search will be performed across multiple electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, etc.) and grey literature.
• Two independent reviewers will screen studies for inclusion and extract data.
• Data will be charted and summarized in tables and figures to map the research landscape and identify knowledge gaps.

Main Results:

• The review will synthesize findings from existing studies on NS.
• It will highlight the current understanding of NS aetiology, management, and associated stigmatization.
• Key research gaps and areas needing further investigation will be identified.

Conclusions:

• This scoping review will offer a comprehensive overview of Nodding Syndrome research.
• The findings will guide the development of targeted research agendas and effective public health interventions.
• Identifying knowledge gaps is crucial for advancing understanding and improving outcomes for affected children.