Voices from the Amazon: exploring implementor and user perceptions of non-invasive malaria diagnostics in Peru

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Malaria remains a significant public health issue in specific Peruvian regions, including Loreto and Tumbes.
• Development of novel non-invasive malaria diagnostic tools necessitates formative research within endemic communities.
• Understanding user perspectives is crucial for the successful implementation of new diagnostic technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of four novel non-invasive malaria diagnostic tools.
• To gather community and health professional feedback on potential malaria diagnostic devices in Peru.

Main Methods:

• Focus group discussions were conducted with diverse community members and professionals in Loreto.
• Key informant interviews were held with health professionals and vector control authorities in Loreto, Tumbes, and Lima.
• Qualitative data were collected in Spanish to assess user perceptions and concerns regarding the diagnostic tools.

Main Results:

• Initial enthusiasm for all tools waned, with a preference emerging for the skin scan and skin odour tests.
• The skin scan and skin odour tests were favored for their ease of use, community acceptability, and feasibility in remote settings.
• Breath and saliva tests faced rejection due to hygiene concerns and cultural/environmental factors, alongside disease transmission worries.

Conclusions:

• Non-invasive malaria diagnostic tools hold potential for malaria-endemic areas.
• The skin scan and skin odour tests are identified as promising candidates for field deployment.
• Development of international recommendations is needed for integrating these tools into national malaria control programs.