Establishing an epidemiological field laboratory in rural areas -- potentials for public health research and interventions. The Butajira Rural Health Programme 1987-1999.

Abstract

This document presents the experiences of the first 13 years of the Butajira Rural Health Programme (BRHP) which aims to provide epidemiological surveillance system at district level in Ethiopia. It also presents data on demography summarizes results from specific applications of its epidemiological laboratories and outlines research and intervention activities from major findings. BHRP is the source of information for planning and evaluating public health interventions and is a platform for research training in a developing country. Its health interventions are important in the assessment of fertility and mortality trends analysis of public health and health behavioral determinants of mortality and morbidity and assessment of coverage and utilization of health services. Overall BHRP is considered a national asset through provision of scientifically sound information that can be used for public health planning policy- making and evaluation.