International Journal of TROPICAL DISEASE & Health

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https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/151213

Chief Editor: Prof. William Ebomoyi
ISSN: 2278–1005

Frequency: Quarterly

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://www.sciencedomain.org/journal-home.php?id=19

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288 Pioneer Computed Tomographic Examinations in University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Nigeria.
(2014-02) Felix, U Uduma; Dianabast, U Eduwem; Jane, V Obong
Background: Computed tomography (CT) is a cross sectional imaging tool that has dramatically improved diagnosis. Its increasing availability was recently extended to University of Uyo teaching hospital (UUTH), Uyo, Nigeria. Aim: Evaluating pioneer CT examinations in UUTH, Uyo. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of all CT examinations conducted after the installation of the 16 slice Activion Toshiba, 2009 CT scanner. Period studied was from 4th November, 2012 to 9th August, 2013. Some CT scans were done with intravenous contrast with/without oral contrast. Demographic data, clinical presentations, type of examination and positive radiological features were extracted from records of all computed tomograms. Results were analysed with SSPS 13 computer package. Results: 288 Patients were studied but 281 with adequate demographic data were analyzed. Of this number, 56.6% (n=159) were males and 43.4% (n=122) were females giving M: F ratio of 1.3:1. The largest male and female studied populations were 10.3% (n=29) in 50-59 age range and 8.2% (n=9) in 40-49 respectively. The commonest examination was cranio-cerebral 62.5% (n=180), followed by abdomino-pelvic CT 3.5% (n=10). The commonest indication for cranio-cerebral CT was trauma (20%) followed by cerebro-vascular accident (CVA) 16.1%. Normal brain CT were 33 (18.3%) , whereas unrelated CT brain findings were 29 (16.1%). 11.4% (n=33) of 288 patients who underwent CT were candidates for test-running the machine (male to female ratio 1.12: 1) at no cost to the patient. Conclusions: The commonest CT examinations in Uyo, Nigeria are cranio-cerbral with the commonest indications being trauma and CVA.
Abnormalities of Hemoglobin and Glucose-6-Phosphate-Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Children with Uncomplicated Malaria and Living in Banfora and Saponé, Two Different Malaria Setting of Burkina Faso
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2019-07) Badoum, Emilie S.; Sermé, Samuel S.; Yaro, Jean B.; Sam, A. Coulibaly; Désiré, Kargougou; Amidou, Diarra; Amidou, Z. Ouédraogo; Lankoande, Malik; Issa, Nébié; Issiaka, Soulama; Alphonse, Ouédraogo; Alfred, B. Tiono; Yves, Traoré; Sodiomon, B. Sirima; Edith, C. Bougouma
Aims:The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of hemoglobin abnormalities and G6PD deficiency and their respective influence on anemia occurring in less than five years old children with clinical P. falciparummalaria living in Burkina Faso.Study Design:The study was a cross-sectional survey with descriptive focus conducted from December 2010 to January 2013 in Saponé health district and from May to October 2011 in Banforahealth district. Clinical and laboratory data were collected. Blood smears on slides for malaria diagnosis by microscopy, hemoglobin level and filter paper for the detection of human genetic factors were performed.Methodology:A total of 386 subjects from Saponé (131) and Banfora (255) were enrolled. DNA collected from each sample was extracted using chelex-100 method and the human genetic resistance factors background was assessed by RFLP-PCR. Abnormal hemoglobin patients were classified as NonAA while AA was defined the normal hemoglobin.Results:In this study, 70.98% (274/386) were classified normal hemoglobin (AA) while 29.02% (112/386) of subjects were carrying at least one abnormal (NonAA) allele: 24.35%AC, 3.63% AS, 0.78%CC and 0.26%SC. G6PD deficiency was 9.59% (37/386) among which, 4.92% for male and 4.66% in female. However, this gender difference was not statistically significant (p=1.00). 319/367 (86.92%) of the patients were anemic (59.4% with moderate anemia and 20.98% with mild anemia). Theprevalence of anemia in G6PD deficient subjects was 83.33% (of which 58.33% were moderate anemia and 22.22% mild anemia). The difference between types of hemoglobin (p=0.64) in the occurrence of anemia (AA 87.64% and Non AA 85.18%) was not statistically significant. Conclusion:This study showed that the prevalence of these genetic factors was relatively low among children with clinical falciparummalaria with high parasite density. In addition, these factors appear to have no effect on anemia.
Acceptability of Positive Deviance Mentorship for Diabetes Management among HIV Clients Living with Diabetes in Eastern Uganda a Cross-Sectional Study
(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-01) Okia, D; Kimiywe, J; Olupot-Olupot, P; Mwanzo, I.
Introduction: The high risk of PLHIV on ART to become diabetes clients and to develop metabolic disorders is well investigated. Regular monitoring and health care is an essential requirement. A majority of HIV clients living with diabetes have poor diabetes knowledge and poor treatment outcomes. Positive deviance mentorship may be a better option for improving diabetes knowledge and treatment outcomes among registered HIV clients living with diabetes. Assessing the acceptability of public health interventions is key to understanding their potential for long-term success and feasibility. Limited literature exists about the acceptability of positive deviant mentorship (PDM) for improving knowledge and treatment outcomes among HIV clients living with diabetes. The findings of this study provide additional important insights for improving future positive deviance HIV and diabetes interventions and enhancing health programs and sustainability. Aim: This study, conducted in October 2024, quantitatively evaluated the acceptability of the positive deviant mentorship for improving knowledge and treatment outcomes among diabetes clients living with HIV (mentees) exposed to PDM for three months (July to September) in Eastern Uganda. Study Design: In October 2024, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Mbale and Soroti Regional Referral Hospitals in Eastern Uganda. Materials and Methods: The sample size was twenty-two registered participants exposed to PDM for three months. Purposive sampling was done to select eligible registered exposed participants. Electronic data collection was done using a structured questionnaire by trained research assistants. The twenty-two participants were asked to rate their agreement with various statements regarding the PDM's perceived satisfaction, effectiveness, and cultural suitability. All the research assistants were trained in data quality management. Ethical approval was obtained from Busitema University REC. Stata version 15 was used for analysis. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were employed, to summarise the acceptability scores. Results: All the 22(100%) participants participated in the study. The majority (77.3%) were above the age of 50 years, 54.6% were married, and only 13.6% had tertiary education. More than half of the participants, 54.5%, were employed, and a relatively large proportion, 59.1%, lived within a radius of 5 km from the nearest Health facility. The Muslims were only 31.8% and 45.4% of the participants' source of funds when sick was salary or business. A majority of the participants 95.5% were satisfied (very satisfied/satisfied) with positive deviant mentorship(intervention) and 95.4% would recommend the interventions to other HIV clients with low diabetes knowledge and poor glycemic control. A large proportion of the participants 91% perceived the intervention as feasible and effective in achieving its goals. Almost all the participants 95.5% felt the intervention was culturally appropriate for them. Conclusions: The study revealed that Positive deviant mentorship is highly acceptable among the research participants in Soroti and Mbale Hospitals Eastern Uganda. The positive deviant mentorship-prescribed activities were easy to do and were culturally appropriate. This intervention is recommended for HIV clients living with diabetes who have low diabetes knowledge and poor glycemic control in similar contexts. This study's limitations include selection bias, recall bias, a cross-sectional design, and a small sample size. These were mitigated during the data collection, mentorship and analysis process.
Accessibility on Utilization of Contraceptive Methods among Youths: an Analytical Cross-Sectional Study in Westlands Sub County, Nairobi
(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2024-12) Kamau, LM; Muitta, E; Some, E.
Background: Over 20 million young people who need modern contraceptives do not use any, making the low uptake of these methods among adolescents a major public health concern. Information on contraception is abundant among the population but the uptake of contraception is still low, especially among the youth in developing nations. The study sought to examine how accessibility affects the utilization of contraceptive methods among the youths in the Westlands Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design where quantitative data was obtained. Simple random sampling was used to select 13 health centers in Westland抯 Sub County and youths visiting the facilities for services were sampled using both systematic and simple random sampling. For this study, 398 participants made up the sample size where the Sloven formula for sample size calculation was used. Results: The research found a significant correlation (p=0.00) between youths' use of modern contraceptive methods and the quality of services they received. From this study, the number of children (p=0.503) did not significantly add to the model, but the academic level (p=0.003), marital status (p=0.021), and gender (p=0.001) did. Conclusions: In conclusion utilization of any method of contraceptives translated to a high contraceptive utilization prevalence in youths, the quality of services that health care providers offer to youths, education level, and demographic factors such as gender, and marital status, have continued to greatly affect and lower overall contraceptive utilization prevalence among the youths in developing nations.
Accessing Online Health-related Information by Parents of Children with Neurologic Disorders in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-03) Wonodi, W; Okari, TG; Otokunefor, O.
Background: Parental use of online search engines to get information about their children’s illnesses is a common practice in developed countries. This online search is becoming part of our society, especially in the face of chronic disorders. Objectives: This study was undertaken to ascertain the proportion of parents of children with neurological disorders browsing the internet for medical information and factors associated with this behaviour. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in the paediatric neurology clinic of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, where 106 child-parent pairs were consecutively recruited. A questionnaire was used to collect information on biodata and their use of the internet to access information on their children’s diseases. Data was analysed with SPSS 23, with statistical significance set at P value < 0.05. Results: The mean ages of the children, mothers and fathers were 5.5±4.6 years, 37.2±6.9 years and 44.6±6.9 years respectively. Most mothers (63.2%) and fathers (61.3%) had attained tertiary education and were of middle socioeconomic class. Of the 54(50.9%) parents who had browsed the internet, 49(90.7%) used Google, and 50(92.6%) browsed with their phones. Among those who searched for information online, only 11(20.4%) discussed such information with a physician. Tertiary education among parents and middle socioeconomic status were significantly associated with browsing the internet. Conclusion: A good proportion (50.4%) of educated parents are browsing the internet for more medical information on their children’s illnesses but few are verifying such information with physicians. There is therefore a need to counsel parents on the proper websites to get accurate information.
Achieving the 6th MDG: An Evaluation Drug Treatment of Malaria in Selected PHC in Osun State.
(2015) Abodunrin, O L; Sabageh, A O; Adeoye, A O; Adeomi, A A; Bamidele, J O; Osundina, F F
Introduction: The burden of malaria in Nigeria and Africa is well documented. The current Nigeria anti-malaria drug policy has recommended artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) as the first-line drug treatment for uncomplicated malaria since 2005. It is now 8 years since the adoption of ACT and two years to the set time for the achievement of the MDGs. Objective: To assess the adherence of the PHC to the new policy on drug treatment for uncomplicated malaria. Methods: Using a pro-forma, relevant information about drug prescription of malaria cases between January 2008 and December 2009 was extracted from patients’ folders in the 3 comprehensive health centres being used by LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Osogbo. Additional data were also collected through the use of in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed with Epi-Info software 3.4.2. Results: A total of 8881 episodes of malaria were analyzed of which male children (0-5years) constituted the highest number. The commonest prescribed anti-malaria was oral Chloroquine (21.6%) for the 3 CHC combined. However, for each CHC, CQ was the commonest drug prescribed for Ilie and Atelewo CHC (41.6% and 25.5% respectively), while for Akogun CHC alone, it was Artesunate + SP. Akogun CHC was found to have the highest prescribed pre-packaged ACT. Factors responsible for inappropriate prescription were non-availability and perceived patients' nonaffordability and unwillingness to buy drugs. Conclusion: Prescription of CQ and SP as mono-therapy continues to prevail in the CHC. There is urgent need for ensuring compliance to the current and acceptable treatment for malaria. Other means of sustaining availability of anti-malaria drugs should be considered.
Achieving Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria: Current Challenges and Recommendations
(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-04) Auwal, A-MS; Oluwatomisin, LA; Olatunji, TY; Adekunle, AA-R; Oluwatobi, OP.
Health is a fundamental human right upon which all other rights are built. Easy access to needed and affordable healthcare service is essential towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The achievement of UHC in middle and low-income countries of Africa such as Nigeria has however continued to pose a mirage, hence the need for a thorough re-evaluation and provision of sustainable solutions. This article aims at highlighting the current efforts in achieving UHC in Nigeria and the challenges facing its achievement, while proffering recommendations towards solving these challenges. The Nigerian Government has made considerable efforts in promoting UHC; however a lot still needs to be done. Adequate healthcare financing has been found to be essential towards achieving universal health coverage in Nigeria; hence it is imperative that the Nigerian government and allied agencies continually create effective, achievable and sustainable policies and actions towards financing the healthcare sector, especially at the level of primary healthcare.
Active Case Detection and Prevalence of Urinary Schistosomiasis and Malaria in Pupils of Kotto Barombi, Southwest Cameroon Using the CyScope® Fluorescence Microscope.
(2015) Kimbi, Helen Kuokuo; Wepnje, Godlove B; Anchang-Kimbi, Judith; Tonga, Calvin; Ayukenchengamba, Bate; Njabi, Conica; Nono, Larissa Kouodjip; Nyabeyeu, Hervé Nyabeyeu; Lehman, Leopold Gustave
Aim: This study was aimed at assessing the use of the CyScope® fluorescence microscope to determine the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis (US) and malaria in Kotto Barombi. Experimental Design: The study was a cross-sectional survey. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Kotto Barombi, Cameroon from April to May, 2013. Methodology: Urine and blood samples were collected from 216 pupils. US eggs were detected in urine by centrifugation and CyScope® methods for schistosome eggs. Malaria parasites were detected using Giemsa-stained blood films and CyScope® methods. The performance characteristics of the CyScope® for both infections were determined using light microscopy as gold standard. Results: Overall prevalence of US was 43.4% and 48.5% by light microscopy and CyScope® respectively. Prevalence of US was significantly higher (P<0.01) in the Kotto Barombi Island (78.3%) than Mainland (33.8%). US prevalence was not affected by age, sex and socio-economic class (SEC). Mean intensity of US was 8.1 eggs/10 ml urine (Confidence interval, CI = 4.3–11.9). It was significantly higher (P =.01) in pupils from Island (36.5 eggs/10 ml, CI: 17.7–55.3) than Mainland (8.8 eggs/10 ml; 7.1–10.5), males (19.2 eggs/10 ml urine; CI: 9.2–29.2) than females (17.8 eggs/10 ml urine; CI: 13.1–22.5) and highest (P = .046) in the ≤6 years age group (36.9 eggs/10 ml; CI: 20.4–53.4) when compared with pupils in other age groups. Sensitivity and specificity of CyScope® for US were 90.6% and 83.8% respectively. Overall prevalence of malaria was 19.0% and 41.2% by light microscopy and CyScope® respectively and the difference was significant (P = .01). Malaria prevalence and density were not influenced by age; sex and SEC. Sensitivity and specificity of CyScope® for malaria were 68.3% and 64.9% respectively. Conclusion: The CyScope® could be a useful tool for active case detection of both diseases especially in areas that lack electricity.
Addressing Stigma Related to Leprosy: Lessons from an Intervention Study in Thailand.
(2015) Sermrittirong, Silatham; Brakel, Wim H Van; Bunders-Aelen, J F G; Ariyothai, Niorn; Chaidee, Nareumol
Aims: This study was conducted to develop de-stigmatising interventions aiming to reduce stigma related to leprosy; to improve the quality of life of the people affected; and to draw out lessons on how to set up such interventions elsewhere. Study Design: Intervention study. Place and Duration of Study: Raj Pracha Samasai Institute and Chaiyaphum province, Thailand, April 2011-December 2012. Methodology: De-stigmatising interventions were carried out by 3 different groups, namely a formal health care group, a local volunteer group and a self-help group. A baseline survey was done using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews with people affected with leprosy (n=19), community members (n=24) and health workers who were responsible for leprosy and tuberculosis at a district hospital (n=2), and those who were present at a sub-district promotion hospital at the time of interviewing (n=6). One focus group discussion was conducted among health volunteers who had people affected by leprosy in the areas for which they were responsible (n=6). For the quantitative data collection, community members and health workers were interviewed using the Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue (EMIC) stigma scale. To track the course of the interventions, two sets followup enquiries were conducted. People affected by leprosy, people with other disabilities, health volunteers, local volunteers, nurses, health workers and administrative officers were interviewed. Focus group discussions were held with health volunteers, with local volunteers and with the selfhelp group members. Content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. A T-test, a Chi-square test and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyse quantitative data. Observation was also conducted to evaluate the outcomes of self-care practice of people affected by leprosy. Results: Full participation of people affected by leprosy was found in interventions implemented by the self-help group, while little and no participation was found in those of the local volunteer and the formal health care group respectively. Self-esteem and social participation of the self-help group’s beneficiaries changed more than that of the local volunteer group, while there was no change in those taking part in the formal health care group. Conclusion: The findings support the study hypothesis that emphasises the importance of participation of different stakeholders. To maximise the likelihood of significant changes in attitudes, tailor-made education needs to be conducted to address negative attitudes and stigma perceptions found in the course of pre-intervention assessment.
Adenocarcinoma of the Prostate Presenting as a Soft Tissue Metastasis: A Case Report and Review of Literature
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2019-03) O.I, Ajetunmobi; O.D., Dzuachii; I., Offor; I., Emmanuel
Metastasis is the most frequent cause of mortality in cancer patients and symptoms related to a secondary deposit are a common form of presentation in malignancies. Cancers of the prostate commonly present with metastasis to the vertebrae, and less commonly to the lungs and liver. Metastasis to soft tissue is extremely rare and a highly unlikely form of presentation. However, with rising cancer rates in the developing world, secondary tumors should be excluded when soft tissue masses are encountered
Adolescent Morbidity Pattern in Nigeria: Is the Pattern Changing?
(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2024-03) Wonodi, W; Okari, TG.
Background: Adolescents make up a large and growing percentage of populations in the world, especially in the developing nations. They have peculiar health needs which are often neglected due to paucity of data from our health institutions and non-implementation of existing adolescent health policies. Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the morbidity pattern among adolescents attending the Paediatric outpatient clinic of a tertiary health facility. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study of adolescents aged 10-17 years seen at the Paediatric Outpatient Clinic (POPC) from first of July to 31st of December 2022. Consent was obtained from parents/caregivers and assent from the adolescents. The socio-demographic data obtained from them as well as the clinical details and diagnoses made by attending physicians were recorded in the study proforma. Data was analyzed with IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23 and data presented in tables and charts. Results: A total of 136 adolescents were enrolled in the study with a male: female ratio of 1:1.6. Most 90 (66.2%) were early adolescents, attended private secondary schools and belonged to the middle socioeconomic class. The commonest presenting complaints were body pains 24 (17.6%), convulsion 22 (16.2%) and cough 17 (12.5%). The three commonest diagnoses made were epilepsy 25(18.4%), respiratory tract infections 15 (11%), and sickle cell disease (9.6%). Non-communicable diseases (61%) were more prevalent, but there was no statistical difference in its prevalence among their socio-demographic characteristics. Eleven (8.1%) had surgical diagnoses such as appendicitis, inguino-scrotal hernia and ganglion. Conclusion: The morbidity pattern of adolescents in the study consisted of medical and surgical diagnoses. There appears to be a shift in morbidity pattern from communicable to non-communicable diseases among adolescents in the locality and this may be put into consideration in policy formulation for adolescents.
Advances in the Co-Host Immune Response to Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome and Kawasaki Disease in Children with AI-Guided Features
(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-03) Zhong, H; Sun, X; lv, X; Jiao, W.
Purpose: To explore the role of artificial intelligence in the immune response mechanism of children with multi-system inflammatory syndrome and Kawasaki disease. Methods: To search the domestic and foreign literatures about the immune response mechanism of these two diseases, and analyze the literatures according to the characteristics of artificial intelligence. Results: AI analysis showed that the two kinds of children's syndrome were concentrated in the cytokine storm centered on il-15/IL15RA, which confirmed that the two diseases had the same initial immune pathway, but the differences in immune phenotype, cytokine, cell count and other aspects suggested that KD and MIS-C were two different diseases. Conclusion: It shows the applicability of AI in this research direction, and points out the limitations of the current research scope and samples. The difference between the results of KD and MIS-C research guides the direction of future research. Accurate and comprehensive laboratory indicators and parameters can be applied to artificial intelligence and provide basis for diagnosis and treatment of diseases. As the number of infected people increases, the problem of sample limitation in the current work can also be improved.
African Skin: Different Types, Needs and Diseases
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2019-06) Oninla, Olumayowa Abimbola; Oninla, Samuel Olorunyomi; Bolaji, Ibiesa Otike-Odibi; Mufutau, Muphy Oripelaye; Fatai, Olatunde Olanrewaju; Tahir, Mohammed
Microscopic structures in the skin are basically the same in all races. Differences are found in histology and physiology of the skin resulting in different skin types, needs and prevailing skin diseases. Skin pigmentation (with the photo-protective properties), and the barrier function of the stratum corneum are the main differences between African and Caucasian skin.The geographic distribution of UV radiation (UVR) has a positive correlation with geographical location. The darker-skinned populations are closer to the equator where there are high amounts of UVR especially in the tropical regions of the world. African skin has the greatest variability in skin color. Africa has both white and dark skinned individuals with the darker-skinned populations beingmostly around the equator. Leslie Baumann introduced four parameters that more accurately characterized skin types than previous classification of dry, oily, normal and combination skin. These are dry or oily –D/O; sensitive or resistant –S/R;pigmented or non-pigmented –P/N, and wrinkled or unwrinkled skin –W/T. Combinations of these further produced sixteen skin phenotypes. Dark skinned individuals often have the PT types while the light skinned mostly have the NW types.Skin needs basically depends on the type. Identifying the skin type is fundamental to providing the right skin care. According to Baumann, the fundamental elements of skin care are mild cleansing, hydrating (moisturization with humectants and emollients), replenishing (withlipids, ceramides and fatty acids) and skin protection (UV protection and increased humidity).Skin diseases are associated with skin type. Eczema is more typical in people with DS combinations while acne is associated with OS skin type (especially OSNT and OSPT). Prevalence of skin diseases varies within African communities from 35% to 87% with skin infections affecting 22-46% and eczemas 13-21% of patients in various studies.
Age Related Pattern of Awareness and Basic Knowledge on Zika Virus Disease among Women Visiting Children Immunization Unit in Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Southeast Nigeria
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2019-03) Ndibuagu, Edmund O.; Okafor, Innocent I.; Arinze-Onyia, Sussan U.
Materials and Methods:The study was conducted in the Immunization unit of a Teaching Hospital, Southeast Nigeria, between November 2016 and February 2017. It was a quantitative, observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study, involving randomly selected 256 women who brought children for immunization. Pre-tested, interviewer-administered, structured questionnaire was used; and data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 for windows.Results:Highest number of respondents [112 (43.8%)] were from 30 to 39 age group, followed by those aged 20 to 29 years [108(42.2%)]. Up to 38.3% of respondents had never heard about Zika virus, though this was not statistically significant when compared to the 61.7% that were aware of Zika Virus Disease (P = 0.92).Highest number heard it through television [57(36.1%)]. Overall, respondents that were 20 to 29 years of age recorded mean percentage basic knowledge score of 54.6%, while those in the 30 to 39 years age range recorded 49.8%.Conclusions:Many respondents either had never heard about Zika virus, and also many exhibited poor basic knowledge on Zika virus disease. It is therefore important to develop good strategies aimed at addressing these awareness and knowledgegaps among women of child-bearing age, who are mostly affected by Zika virus disease
The Allure of Abdominal Scarification (`UDE`) among the Esan Tribe in South-South Nigeria – A Prospective Analysis
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2020-09) Salami, T. A. T.; Irekpita, E.; Emorinken, A.; Oseni, T. I. A.; Akinkugbe, A. A.; Oziegbe, O. E.; Agbebaku, F. O.
Background:The practice of inflicting cuts (incisions) on the anterior abdominal wall to treat splenomegaly of various causes is a very common one in some parts of Edo State, Nigeria. Such incisions may result in several complications including sepsis (especially inchildren who are the major targets); massive blood loss leading to symptomatic anemia that may require blood transfusions or lead to death and massive keloidal growth as sequelae in some of the patients. This practice is a long-termpractice of the Esan people of the central part of Edo State Nigeria. This study aims to identify the factors that continue to make this practice attractive to members of the community, the common complications encountered, and how to develop an advocacy tool for health education and promote the health-seeking behavior of the populace.Methods:This was a prospective community based cross-sectional descriptive study that was conducted in all the 5 Esan speaking local government areas of Edo State where this practice is very common. The study was done between January 2017 and June 2018. Participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire by previously trained researchers, after pretesting and validation. The questionnaire was administered on 700 adults, however, 500 were returned. The data obtained were summarized as frequencies and percentages.Results:The majority of the participants were middle-aged. Ninty-five percent (95%) of respondents were aware of the practice of abdominal scarification and 80% of them think itis effective. It was mainly carried out by herbalists in 95% of the respondents. Half of the respondents were unaware of any complications associated with the procedure. Conclusion:Abdominal scarification is a common practice among the Esan people of south-south Nigeria. They believe it's effective, affordable, and risk-free. This is despite the availability of effective alternatives in orthodox medicine. There is, therefore, a need for advocacy and health education considering the dangers and complications associated with the practice
Anaemia in Critically Ill Children- A Case Study from Nigeria.
(2012-01) George, I O; Otaigbe, B E
Background and Aim: Anaemia is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in the tropics. World Health Organization estimated that anaemia affects one-quarter of the world's population and is concentrated within preschool age children and in resource-poor countries like ours. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and severity of anaemia in critically ill children presenting at the Children Emergency Ward of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of anaemic children (1 month to 16 years) admitted into the Children Emergency Ward of the UPTH from January to December 2010. Medical case notes of the patients were reviewed. Information obtained included age, gender, presenting complaints, diagnosis, packed cell volume (PCV), blood transfusion and outcome. The PCV was determined by microhaemtocrit method. Data generated were analysed using SPSS for widow, version 12.0 (SPSS Inc, Chicago Illinois, USA). Descriptive statistics in the form of the frequency and percentage were used. Results: There were a total of 1581 children admitted into the Children Emergency Ward of the UPTH during the period of study. Four hundred and twenty three were confirmed to have anaemia of varying degree giving a prevalence of 26.8%. Most 295(69.7%) of the mothers were poorly educated and live in the urban slums. There were more males 418(67.1%) than females 205(32.9%). Fever, vomiting and weakness were the main presenting features. Ninety two patients (6.3%) had mild anaemia, 102 patients (6.5%) had moderate anaemia and 229 patients (14.5%) had severe anaemia. Two hundred and twelve of the critically ill children (50.1%) were transfused on account of severe anaemia. Malaria and septiicaemia were the commonest associated morbid conditions. Twenty five deaths were recorded. Severe anaemia accounted for 13(52.0%) of the total deaths. Conclusion: Anaemia is prevalent among Nigerian children in critical condition. Severe anemia is common and associated with increased risk of clinically relevant outcomes such as hospitalization and mortality.
Analysing Host Preference Behavior of Phlebotomus argentipes (Diptera: Psychodidae) Under the Impact of Indoor Residual Spray.
(2015) Kumar, Vijay; Shankar, Lokesh; Rama, Aarti; Kesari, Shreekant; Dinesh, Diwakar Singh; Bhunia, Gouri Shankar; Das, Pradeep
Background: Present scenario of Bihar and neighboring Indian states reveals dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) being an insecticide of choice for controlling the vector of Indian Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) i.e., Phlebotomus argentipes, that had reported to attain resistance/tolerance against it, leading to the behavioral transition including host preference and selection by them. The relationship between insecticidal resistance and host preference/ selection is not yet well understood. Objective: Exploring the host preference/selection behavior under the influence of insecticidal pressure in different biotopes of VL endemic regions in India Methods: For this, the engorged sand flies that were collected before and after Indoor Residual Spray (IRS) were subjected for feeding behavior analysis. The parameter studied were Host Feeding Index (HFI) and Forage Ratio (FR) by analyzing Blood Meal Identification (BMI). Results: The higher percentage of sand flies were recorded to be fed on cattle host (56.05%) with respect to the human host (30.35%) before IRS while a significant increase in cattle blood index (79.17%) in contrast to significant drop in human blood index (9.43%) was recorded during post IRS session at the study site. It establishes, cattle being potentially served as a preferred host for sand flies in contrast to other available hosts. The lowered value of FR during pre- and post-IRS respectively for human (0.77 and 0.24) as compared to the cattle (1.89 and 2.67) indicates cattle host being selectively preferred by the P. argentipes also corroborate with the results of BMI. Conclusion: Through the study we can conclude that instead of being killed by IRS, P. argentipes has attained resistance against DDT. Under the insecticidal pressure the host preference as well as selection tendency of P. argentipes for cattle host gets enhanced under the influence of IRS, as abrupt increment was observed in the FR’s post-IRS. While, the avoidance tendency of insects from the human hosts in favor of other available hosts’ viz., cattle, goat, pigs, etc. with slight decrement in the forage ratios for the human hosts during the IRS was also observed. Thus, under the impact of IRS, P. argentipes has changed its behavior from endophilic to exophilic and migrated from the human hosts at the periphery area of sprayed houses towards much safer zone, i.e., deserted houses, nearby gardens, bushes, etc for their survival for feeding cattle i.e., preferred host, lying in unsprayed horizon. Therefore, change in control strategy involving the proper management of insecticide resistance is very much needed to tackle the vector outbreak and hence menace caused by them.
Analysis of HIV/Malaria Coinfections among HIV-1 Infected Individuals in Two Tertiary Hospitals in Old Cross River State, Nigeria
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2020-08) Ejike, Ugochi Immaculate; Cookey. Tochi Ifeoma; Hope, Chioma Innocent- Adiele; Iheanyi, Omezuruike Okonko
Aims: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Malaria are the two main global public health threats that dent development in low and middle-income countries. This study evaluated the immunological marker and HIV/Malaria co-infection among individuals infected with HIV-1 in old Cross River State, Nigeria. Study Design:Cross-sectional study.Place and Duration of Study:University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) and University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) between March 2018 and August 2019.Original Research Article Methods: A total of 417 individuals infected with HIV-1 partook in this study. The age of these individuals ranged from 4-72 years (average age = 39.1 years). Plasma samples were analyzed for HIV and Malaria using Enzyme-Linked immunosorbent Assay. The CD4 count was enumerated using the Partec CyFlow®Counter. Plasma viral loads (PVL) were determined using the Abbott Real-Time HIV-1 assay.Results: Results showed that 230(55.1%) of the participants were in the 31-45 years age range. The majority (67.4%) of the HIV-1 infected individuals were females. An overall prevalence of HIV/Malaria coinfection in Old Cross River State, Nigeria was 14.3%, of which Uyo was 6.3% and Calabar was 3.0%. A higher prevalence of HIV/Malariacoinfection was observed among age groups <25 years (17.5%), males (5.1%), singles or divorced/widow/widower (7.7%), those with primary education (7.5%), and students (10.0%). Higher HIV/Malaria coinfection was also observed amongthose with CD4 cell count <200 cells/μl and 350-499 cells/μl (5.7%) and PVL >5000 copies/mL (7.9%) compared to others with 2.0% prevalence. Of all variables evaluated only marital status (p= 0.033), educational background (p= 0.000) and occupations (p =0.000) were significantly associated.Conclusions: This study further confirmed the presence of HIV/Malaria coinfection in old Cross River State, Nigeria. This study has added to the voices on the ground to give a better view on the frequency and the pattern of distribution of HIV/Malaria coinfection since limited studies have been done on this in old Cross River State, Nigeria. This, therefore, highlights the need for a well-structured approach to the management of HIV/Malaria coinfection in Nigeria.
Analysis of Knowledge Management Practice Studies among the Plasmodium falciparum Positive Patients Attending out Patient Departments in Awka, South Anambra State
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2019-04) Obasi, Doris O.; Azorji, Johnpaul N.; Onyenwe, Nathaniel E.; Duru, Obianuju O.
Aim: To analyzethe Knowledge Management Practice Studies among the Plasmodium falciparumpositive patients attending outpatient departments in AWKA, South Anambra state.Study Design: Blood samples were randomly collected from 210 febrile patients attending the OPD and interviewed on malaria knowledge and management practice, using semi-structured questionnaire from three different clinical laboratories, two of which are hospitals.Original ResearchArticle Place and duration of Study: This study was carried out in Medical Microbiology and Parasitology unit of Anambra State University teaching Hospital, Awka South, South-East Nigeria between February and August, 2013.Methodology: Thick & thin blood smears were stained and examined under microscope. At least 100 oil immersion fieldswereexamined for diagnosis and parasite count was done against 200 WBC from thick smear. The questionnaire was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences SPSS (P < 0.05).Results: The national drug policy for malaria treatment during the study period were found to be pyrimethamine, co-trimoxazole, sulphamethaxazole, and in few cases arthemether/lumefantrine. The prevalence rate of P. falciparumwas 74.8% (157/210), while those on both sexes were 56.1 % and 43.9 % in females and males respectively. Only 44.3%, 32.4%, 30.5% of the population studied showed good knowledge, attitude and practice respectively towards malaria infections.Conclusion: The prevalence of P. falciparum were22.3% and 21.1% in ages 5-14 and 45-54 respectively.Studies revealed that most people have good knowledge of malaria but give less attention to its preventive and control measures, thereby presenting very poor attitude and poor practice even when exposed to the infection. These issues may pose a problem, such as drug resistancewhen proper intervention measures are not followed.
Analysis of Reported Critical Values and Their Associated Clinical Conditions in a Clinical Chemistry Laboratory of a Tertiary Health Institution in Nigeria
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2019-10) T.O., Olusanya; O.A, Ladipo; N. E, Okonkwo; J.N, Ngozi; V.O, Joseph; N.S, Nnadozie; U.P, Okafor
Studies involving critical values in recent time have mainly dwelt on compliance to timely reporting as well as the volumes of the individual reported critical analytes. There is paucity of data however, especially in this environment, on the relationships that exist between reported critical biochemical analytes and the presenting clinical conditions of the patients as at the time of the laboratory investigation. This study therefore sought to investigate such relationships.This study is a retrospective study of data obtained in the year 2018 from the critical value register of the Department of Chemical Pathology, Babcock University Teaching Hospital Ilisan-Remo, Ogun state, Nigeria. Data obtained was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Relationship between variables was determined using Chi-square Test.Original ResearchArticleIn the year under review, a total of 270 critical values from various biochemical analytes were obtained; out of which 34.0% waspotassium, representing the highest occurrence. Calcium had the highest proportion of its tests from the year having critical outcomes (2.2%) compared to other biochemical parameters. Kidney disease was the most frequently reported clinical condition (25.1%) with critical values of biochemical analytes. This study also showed a strong statistical association (p = 0.000) between diabetic ketoacidosis and critical levels of hyperkalemia, critical outcomes of hypocalcaemia and infection/sepsis as well as critical level of azotemia and pregnancy related complications.This study has shown potassium as the most reported critical biochemical analyte which occurred mostly as cases of critical hyperkalemia. This was associated with a high burden of kidney diseases among the study population. The study has also drawn attention to the need for immediate and constant check of blood calcium and urea levels in patients that have sepsis and pregnancy related complications respectively.

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