International Journal of TROPICAL DISEASE & Health
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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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Item Risk Factors Associated with Hypertension among Adults 18-65 Years in Kirinyaga County, Kenya(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-10) Mwaga, DK; Odongo, AO; Kerochi, A.Hypertension is one of the non-communicable diseases linked with heart disease and accounts for about 64% of stroke cases globally. BP is becoming the leading global public health problem with over 10M death every year. Despite growing evidence that high blood pressure is on the rise, information about its risks factors on patients seeking medical care in Kenyan hospitals is limited. This research investigated the risk factors associated with high blood pressure among adults aged 18-65 in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. Analytical cross-sectional study, using quantitative and qualitative methods of data collections, a multistage sampling procedure sampled 380 study participants chi square and logistic regression made deductions about the study population. In qualitative data, deductive approach used research questions as a guide for data analysis. Gender chi-square ?2 (2, N=345=128.640, P=.000), respondent age ?2(5, N=345=158.021, P=.000), education level ?2 (3, N=345=77.677, P=.000), marital status ?2(4, N=345=69.413, P=.000), state of being pregnancy ?2(1, N=345=224.599, P=.000), currently smoking cigarette ?2(1, N=50=28.890, P=.000), currently taking alcohol ?2(1, N=273=16.548, P=.000), engaging in physical activities ?2(3, N=345=58.183, P=.000), and weight status ?2(2, N=184=40.044, P=.000) were statistically significantly associated with the development of hypertension. Routine screening and advocacy by the health worker should be done for early detection, timely treatment, follow up and prevent complications related to hypertension.Item High Blood Pressure amongst Adolescents in Lagos, South West Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-10) Ezeogu, J; Atoh, I; Okoro, JC; Ogbonna, IF.Adolescent high blood pressure (HBP), now a growing significant health problem with lasting consequences on cardiovascular health, was considered rare at a time. Several end-organ complications could occur if this asymptomatic condition is uncontrolled, and tracks into adulthood. The 2004 Fourth Report was developed to address the cumbersome challenges in the detection of adolescent hypertension. Aims: This study sought to determine high blood pressure prevalence amongst adolescents in Mushin Local Government Area (LGA) using the 2004 Fourth report. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Fourteen secondary schools, in Mushin Local Government Area (LGA) between August 2020 and December 2020. Methodology: A two-stage sampling method was utilized in selecting 14 secondary schools. Within selected schools; participants were recruited from each class by proportional allocation using the school’s register. Students were stratified as males and females using the class register. Subjects were selected from each stratum by simple random sampling method. We included 1490, (744 male, 746 female), 10-19 years old students. A structured proforma was used to obtain socio-demographic information and relevant clinical data. The blood pressure measurements were taken according to standard protocol (elevated blood pressure is systolic and/or diastolic pressure ? 90th but ? 95th percentile for age, gender and height). Descriptive data was used to describe socio-demographic and anthropometric characteristics. Frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation were used to summarize categorical and numerical variables. P-values of 0.5 was termed significant Results: Among the 1490 subjects, 49.9% (744) were male and 50.1% (746) females (male: female ratio was 1: 1). Prevalence, of high blood pressure, elevated pressure and hypertension were 14.5% (number =216), 6.1% (number =92), and 8.4% (number =124). The prevalence of high blood pressure rose progressively with the age group in the early and mid adolescent age group, while the prevalence was lowest in the oldest age group. Conclusions: Adolescent hypertension, elevated blood pressure, high blood pressure, prevalence, was high. Development of cardiovascular complications could be obviated by early detection, life style modification and treatment.Item Prevalence and Pattern of Traditional Bullying, Amongst Secondary School Students in Yenagoa, Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-10) Esther, OO; Joseph, E; Oliemen, P; Olukayode, AF; Ann, OO.Introduction: Traditional bullying (face to face bullying, that occurs within or around the school premises) among secondary school students is a persistent global public health problem; with varying long lasting mental, physical and academic consequences, not only on the victims but also the bullies and bystanders. It is a common phenomenon that is not limited to physical harm and manifests in many forms such as, verbal, or relational aggression, social exclusion and cyber victims of bullying. Bullying is commonly embedded in power imbalances and can be a call for help from the bullies. Development of an efficient prevention and intervention strategy requires understanding of the causes (family issues, low self esteem or lack of positive role models) of traditional bullying. This study therefore, aimed to determine the prevalence and pattern oftraditional bullying among secondaryschool students in Yenagoa Local Government, Bayelsa State Nigeria, which would aid development and implementation of appropriate antibullying policies. Methods: Adescriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2021to December 2021. Selection of the 1,108 students aged between 10-21years was done by a two-stage sampling technique. The 46-item Bully Survey questionnaire adapted in 2003 by Swearer et al was utilized for data collection. Quantitative data was summarised using descriptive statistics.Test of association was done using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests andbinomial logistic regression analysis was also done to examine associations between variables, withp-value of <0.05 considered significant. Results: Prevalence rates of 40.3%, 81.3%, and 86.3% were foundfor bullying perpetration, victimization and bystander respectively. Verbal bullying such as hauling of insults was the most common form of bullying behaviourperpetrated (64.8%); with sexual bullying being the least type observed (20%). Both bullying perpetration (46.9%) and victimization (88.3%) were significantly more common among female participants, while being a bullying bystander (99.4%) was commoner among male participants.Participants from junior classes were twice as more likely to perpetrate bullying(odds ratio[OR]:2.053, confidence interval[CI]:0.896-4.705). Also, those in schools with no anti-bullying policies were 1.26times more likely to be perpetrators of bullying ([OR] 1.269; CI: 0.229-7.031). School Class (p = 0.030) and absence of anti-bullying policy (p = 0.004) were significantly associated with bullying perpetration in the studied schools. Conclusion: The prevalence of traditional bullying among secondary school students in Yenagoa was very high. Wetherefore recommended that school authorities and the government should formulate appropriate school anti-bullying policies and implement same in order to curb the menace while shielding the weak groups from being victims of bullying in school.Item Clinico-Epidemiological Study Done at a Tertiary Care Centre in Western Ghats of South India and Outcome of Snakebite Cases(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Karanth, JB; Maribashetti, K; Karanth, G.Background & Objectives: Snakebite is a neglected public health problem in tropical and sub-tropical geographical zones. Management of snakebites require through examination, careful monitoring of vitals and assessment of envenomation. The epidemiological and clinical management data will provide an insight on the critical management issues and varied presentation. Methods: A retrospective observation study was conducted at Shripad Hegde Kadave Institute of Medical Sciences, Sirsi, Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. Patients admitted to the hospital during the period from January 2019 to August 2022 were included for the study. Results: The data from a total of 78 participants was included for the analysis. The mean age was 38.56±17.28 years. Of the participants, 50 (64.10%) were male and 43 (52.12%) farmers by occupation. Majority of cases had haematotoxic symptoms (42.2%) followed by myotoxicity (33.3%). Predominant neurotoxicity was seen in only 2 (2.56%) of patients. 57 (73%) of participants had elevated INR ratio. Sixty-seven (85.9%) participants were medically managed and 10 (12.82%) required surgical intervention. Three (18.75%) participants had acute kidney injury. With respect to the final outcome, 71(91%) of participants were discharged after recovery. Interpretation and Conclusion: This study provided the vital insight on clinical presentation and management of snakebite in Western Ghats of South India. Snakebite majorly affected male and middle-aged people. Farmers were most affected and bites occurred more during monsoon season. Due to variation in local distribution of species of snakes’ predominantly higher variants of vipers (lower number of krait and cobra) haematotoxic symptoms and signs were the major clinical presentation.Item Malaria, HIV, and Intestinal Coccidian Parasites Mixed-Infections in Adult Patients in the Fundong Health District, Northwest Region, Cameroon(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-10) Atah, FP; Longdoh, NA; Thumamo, BP; Akoachere, JF.Background: Malaria and intestinal coccidian parasites are both protozoan and their interaction in co-infected patients is still not clear. Patients infected with both malaria and coccidian parasites experience diarrhoea, gastro-intestinal and health problems that maybe life threating. We studied opportunistic intestinal coccidian parasites (OIPs) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in adult patients with malaria in Fundong Health District, Northwest of Cameroon. The objectives was to determine prevalence, and distribution of the diseases in adult population. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study carried out between April and December 2022. Malaria patients were identified by the presence of the Plasmodium parasite in Giemsa blood-stained films. HIV status was determined using the rapid diagnostic test (RDT). Stool samples were subjected to wet preparation and formol-ether concentration technique to detect intestinal coccidian parasites. Pearson’s Chi-Square (?2) and binary logistic regression were performed as part of the statistical analysis. Statistical significance was set a P-value<0.05. Results: Three hundred and thirty (330) adult patients all infected with malaria took part in the study, 115(35%) males and 215 females (65%). The adult were of age 21 years and above. The mean age of participant was 37.02(±15.235) years. Malaria co-infection with coccidian parasites was observed in 19.4%. Malaria co-infection with other gastro-intestinal intestinal parasite capable causing pathological conditions in patients was 5.5%. The study showed the prevalence of malaria co-infections with HIV was 8.2%. The mixed infections observed were domestically acquired (57.8%) as well as travel related (46.2%). Fever was most reported in severe malaria 315/330 (95%), followed by those who reported abdominal pains 85/330 (26%), while diarrhoea was reported in 35/330 (11%) of the study participants. Fever, and abdominal pain significantly associated with malaria status (simple or severe malaria) p-value=, P-value= respectively (5.915) 0.015, P-value= (8.3) 0.004, as well as the HIV status P-value= (11.798) 0.003. The odds of developing severe malaria from fever was 3.533(CI: 1.204-10.366) times higher compared to those who did not have fever. The odds of developing severe malaria from abdominal pain was 0.420(CI: 0.230-0.767) less. Results showed living with child<2 years, water treatment methods, material use in hand washing, predicted the probability of coccidian infection in the final logistic regression model accounting for 23.6% of the variance in the coccidian infections was explained by the model. Conclusion: Prevalence of malaria, and opportunistic intestinal coccidian infections in adult patients was significantly influenced by migration, seasonal variation and the individual’s immune status. Routine clinical practice have often ignore the investigation of possible mixed infections especially in persons with compromised immunity including HIV. Screening patients suspected of malaria should include investigation for opportunistic intestinal coccidian parasites especially for HIV and other vulnerable populations. An integrated prevention and control strategy need to be considered.Item Assessment of Pattern, Distribution, and Determinants of Ocular Morbidity among Residents Seeking Care at Medical Camps in Mathare Slums, Nairobi County, Kenya(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Omoto, AL; Maathai, R; Kerochia, A.Ocular morbidities are considered a major contributor of disabling conditions in both low and high resourced countries. The overall global burden of eye diseases is estimated at 61.4 million Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) which accounts for 4% of total Disability Adjusted Life Years. There have been strong institutional collaborations on attaining Vision 2020-right to sight, which is a global initiative aimed at reducing preventable level of blindness has enhanced institutional collaboration in fight against blindness. Some eye problems that affects people quality of life but do not result in blindness have been ignored in favor of those causing visual impairment. The residents of Mathare slums in Nairobi County, Kenya, seeking care at medical camps, were subjected to an objective eye examination aimed at ascertaining ocular morbidity patterns, causes, and distribution. A descriptive community-based cross-sectional study design was employed. The study persons were patients over ten years who presented with eye-related constraints at the medical camps. The period of study range was between October and November 2022. Results were displayed using descriptions and visualization techniques after data was imported into Excel 2010 for analysis. Results on the pattern indicated a majority of respondents (34.44%) were diagnosed with conjunctiva diseases. This was followed by 30.29% being diagnosed with refractive errors, 11.62% with the cornea, and 8.30% with lens diseases. On distribution, Conjunctiva disease (34.44%) affected most of the respondents, and the majority of these respondents (19.5%) aged between 10 and 20 years affirmed to have atopic Conjunctivitis. A refractive error also commonly affected 30.29% of the participants, with Presbyopia (7.46%) comprising the highest form of refractive error. Cataracts (7.05%) and dry eye syndrome (6.22%) were more evident among patients aged above 40 years. Most of the respondents (43.5%) were found to have pathologies resulting from developmental causes, followed by allergies (24.1%) and refraction errors (10.4%). Hypertension was the most common comorbidity in Mathare slum affecting 12.4% of the respondents; this was followed by peptic ulcer disease (5.4%), diabetes (4.6%), arthritis (2.5%), and lastly, HIV (0.41%). Results showed that ocular Morbidity in the Mathare slum was not associated with determinants like house structure material, number of house rooms, household population, and cooking energy source. It is recommended that health institutions within the Mathare slum and similar contexts be fully equipped with essential eye medications and integrate eye health education in the health facilities. Physical exercise, healthy eating, and medical approved supplements are also recommended to help prevent metabolic disorders and improve age-related eye disorders. Clinical control of existing comorbidities will aid in reducing some eye diseases like cataracts and diabetic retinopathy.Item Molecular Characterization of Cryptosporidium Oocysts in under-Five Children with Diarrhoea in Ile-Ife, Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-10) Olopade, BO; Ekuntuyi, OB; Odetoyin, BW; Onipede, AO.Aim: Cryptosporidiosis is the fifth leading cause of diarrhoea-related death globally among under-five children. This study was conducted to identify and characterize oocysts of Cryptosporidium in under-five children with diarrhoea in Ile-Ife. Study Design: It was a case-control study. Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Obafemi Awolowo University between April, and October 2019. Methodology: Ethical approval was obtained for this study. Consent was also obtained from the parents of the children. Stool samples from 53 children with diarrhoea (cases) and 94 children without diarrhoea (controls) under five years of age were collected. A structured proforma was used to obtain relevant information from the parents of the children. Stool samples were collected and examined macroscopically for consistency, appearance, and colour. Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining was carried out on all the stool samples. The samples positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts by staining were genotyped by nested polymerase chain reaction and confirmed by sequencing of their 18S rRNA genes. Data generated were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS software version 20 and STATA 15. Results: The prevalence of cryptosporidiosis among the study participants was 23.1% with rates of 43.4% (23) and 11.7% (11) for diarrhoeic and non-diarrhoeic children respectively. Of the 34 stool samples analysed, 6 (17.6%) were amplified by nested PCR and 4 (11.8%) were identified by sequencing. The species of Cryptosporidium identified were Cryptosporidium parvum (75%) and Cryptosporidium bovis (25%). Conclusion: In conclusion, Cryptosporidiosis is prevalent among under-five children with Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium bovis as the infecting species.Item A Nationwide Pharmacoepidemiological Analysis of the Impact of Health Policy on Antimicrobial Use in Critical Care Settings in India(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-10) Mathias, SM; Akhila, Aarya, P., V.; Edward, KD; Unnikrishnan, D; Raman, D; Niescierenko, M; Sarvode, S; Britto, CD.A nationwide multicentric pharmacoepidemiologic analysis of antimicrobial use in critical care settings over a 2 year period in India, revealed that 76.0% (22,920) received at least one antimicrobial with 36.6% (11,027) receiving multiple antimicrobials. When classified based on the WHO AWaRe stratification, Watch group antimicrobials were most frequently ordered (56.7%;17103 patients), with the joinpoint regression analysis indicating its peak use during the second COVID-19 wave (May 2021-December 2021: MPC=2.01, p<0.05) and significantly higher odds noted in patients with COVID-19 (aOR:6.73 (5.78-7.88)), APACHE-II >10 (aOR:1.60 (1.49-1.71)) and ventilation requirement (aOR:1.68 (1.55-1.83)), thus indicating their use as empiric antibiotic therapy particularly in severely ill COVID patients. Individual COVID-specific Antimicrobials (CSA) exhibited temporal and geographical variation congruent with the release of scientific literature and local treatment guidelines, reflecting proactive implementation of treatment protocols. Antimicrobials are used extensively in ICUs across India, but overall and individual trends were largely influenced by scientific literature and public health messaging.Item Schistosomiasis and Malaria Co-Infection in School Age Children in the Tiko Health District, South West Region, Cameroon(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-10) Eyong, EM; Endialle, NM; Ngwa, AM; Molua, SEJ; Bongajum, JV; Peter, E.Aims: Parasitic infections are a major cause of diseases and morbidity in Africa, with malaria inflicting the largest burden followed by schistosomiasis. Co-infection with schistosomiasis and malaria may lead to severe health effects on children harbouring both infections. Studies have suggested that co-infection with helminths and malaria alters haematological indices. This study investigated co-infection with Schistosoma species and Plasmodium falciparum amongst school-aged children in the Tiko Health District, South West Region of Cameroon. Methods: A community based study was conducted in three health areas (Holforth, Tiko Town and Likomba) of the Tiko Health District. Participants aged 5 – 15 years were enrolled into the study. Blood, urine and stool samples were collected from the participants after obtaining consent from their parents. Samples were examined using Microscopy and Polymerase Chain Reaction. Haemoglobin levels were measured using a haemoglobinometer. A total of 397 participants were enrolled into the study. Results: The prevalence of schistosomiasis, falciparum malaria and co-infection amongst school aged children were 16.1%, 44.3% and 7.8% respectively. Prevalence of anaemia was 38.0%. Those co-infected had the highest prevalence of anaemia (54.8%) than the mono-infected participants though this difference was not statistically significant (x2 = 3.96, P = 0.138). Co-infection was associated with the health area (x² = 13.878, P = 0.001) and visit to the stream (x²= 7.223, P = 0.007). There was an association between co-infection and malaria parasite density (x² = 7.525, P = 0.0232). Conclusion: There was a relatively low prevalence of co-infection of schistosomiasis and malaria in school-aged children in the Tiko Health District. With respect to anaemia severity, there was no observed association between the infection category and severity of anaemia among the participants (x2 = 5.64, P = 0.464).Item Descriptions of Knowledge, Attitude, and Action of Community in Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) Prevention in RW 10 Cawang Urban Village, East Jakarta(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-01) Suryanegara, W; Rawati, I; RonnyDengue fever is still a health issue in Indonesia. The persistent problem is inconsistent preventative behavior. The research design was descriptive by observing descriptions of knowledge, attitude, and community action in DHF prevention in RW 10 Cawang Urban Village, East Jakarta. The research result showed that the knowledge level of the respondents was good (80,8%), adequate (16,7%), and poor (2,5%). The attitude of the respondents was good (78,3%), adequate (15%), and poor (6,7%). The DBD prevention action of the respondents was good (50,8%), adequate (29,2%), and poor (20%). The community's knowledge level, attitude, and action were in the category of good.Item An Analysis of the Hidden Markov Model for Surveilling the Transmission of Lassa Fever Epidemic Disease in Nigeria during Dry Season(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Nkemnole, E. B.; Oyewole, J. O.Lassa fever is an infectious viral disease that is endemic in Nigeria and other West African countries. Early detection and response to outbreaks of the disease are critical to prevent its spread and reduce illnesses and death. Finding some mathematical patterns that explain the mechanisms of Lassa fever transmission, as well as a thorough understanding of the biological contributing to affecting the disease, are necessary in putting in place a surveillance system with a view to preventing further spread of the disease. In this study, we developed a Hidden Markov Model (HMM) approach to surveil the transmission of Lassa fever virus infections in Nigeria. The HMM was developed using the susceptible Infection recovered (SIR) model to formulate the transition matrix and data from past outbreaks of the disease to compute the observations. Our results showed that the dry season as the peak period for Lassa fever and recorded the lowest numbers during the rainy season. The transition matrix showed a 98% chance of transitioning to the infected state from being susceptible and a 96% chance of remaining infected. The stable probability resulted in a 97.9% probability of transitioning to the infected state and a 1.7% chance of transitioning to the susceptible state. The Empirical analysis using the proposed HMM approach does not only provide a valuable tool for public health officials to track and respond to outbreaks of Lassa fever, leading to more effective disease control strategies but also, establishes an efficient structure for other infectious diseases modeling to aid in early detection and response to epidemic outbreaks.Item Exploring the Rotavirus Risk in Latin American Food and Water(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Bourdett-Stanziola, L.Rotavirus is considered a major public health problem worldwide because many children, adults, and animals die from gastroenteritis due to rotavirus; rotavirus contamination follows the fecal/oral route, and it is well supported that infection can also be achieved by consuming food and water that is contaminated with rotavirus. Research has shown that, in Latin American countries, unusual emerging strains of rotavirus are occurring in children and adults with gastroenteritis; which contain in their sequence genes from rotavirus genotypes detected in animals; Therefore, researchers consider it a virus with zoonotic potential. In this review, I propose that rotavirus transmission occurs from wild animals, who use an intermediate host before contaminating humans, by means of the fecal/oral route, food, and water. Rotavirus produces genetic rearrangements generating new emerging strains, which are excreted into the environment. Generally, during the dry season in our Latin American countries, contaminated water is used to irrigate crops, and from there, much of this water ends up in the sea, where rotavirus is absorbed by filter-feeding molluscs, and from there, consumed by man and animals continuing its cycle. Studies on the molecular characterization of rotavirus strains detected in food and water provide new insights into possible rotavirus genetic rearrangements and zoonoses. The emergence of strains derived from interspecies transmission has implicated and inspired the study of different vaccine strategies.Item A Prospective Observational Study on Causes and Effectiveness of Oligohydramnios Treatment in Pregnant Women with Different Comorbidities(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Likithanjali, B; Saimeghana, G; Chillara, T; Yadav, K; Chander, TR.Oligohydramnios is a rare condition characterised by decreased amniotic fluid volume for gestational age. To determine the causes and effectiveness of oligohydramnios treatment in oligohydramnios pregnant women. We conducted a prospective and observational study at GMH (Government Maternity Hospital) in Hanamkonda over a period of 6 months. We included 203 oligo patients in this study and in which patients were grouped as 3 categories based on amniotic fluid index (AFI) as mild, moderate, severe. Information of the patients were collected from patient case reports and face to face interactions. The data was analysed through EXCEL. From our study we can conclude that oligohydramnios treatment is showing improvement in mild, moderate and severe oligohydramnios patients. But patients with uncontrolled hypertension were not showing liquor improvement because of their decreased placental perfusion. Gestational diabetes and thyroid do not cause oligohydramnios in pregnancy condition.Item Strengthening the Healthcare Workforce for Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria: Lessons and Strategies(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Ruth, JB; Umaima, A-M; David, JN; Ajik, M; Abigail, DA; Sumayya, A-M.Background: Achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a global imperative to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare services for all individuals. A pivotal factor in this endeavor is the strength and capacity of the healthcare workforce. This paper examines the intersection of a robust healthcare workforce and the goals of UHC, with a specific focus on the Nigerian context. Methods: The paper delves into the strengths and weaknesses of the Nigerian healthcare workforce, analyzing factors such as diversity, distribution, skill utilization, and the prevailing challenges. Insights from global approaches in the paper highlight innovative strategies, including workforce training, collaborative delivery models, and workforce motivation to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality. Results: The paper addresses contextual nuances such as cultural diversity, geographic challenges, and socioeconomic disparities that shape the Nigerian healthcare landscape. The relevance of tailored solutions that accommodate these nuances is emphasized. The paper underscores the potential impact of a strengthened healthcare workforce on achieving UHC, reducing health disparities, and improving overall health outcomes. Conclusion: The paper offers policy recommendations tailored to Nigeria's unique circumstances. The conclusion highlights the significance of continual monitoring, research, and evaluation of workforce-centric interventions for sustained progress towards UHC. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on health equity, offering insights into how a capable healthcare workforce can drive transformative change and pave the way for comprehensive healthcare coverage in Nigeria.Item Comparison of the Efficacy of Haematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) and Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) Staining Techniques in the Diagnosis of Typhoid Intestinal Perforation (TIP) among Patients Attending Federal Medical Centre, Keffi Nasarawa State, Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Gambari, SA; Erameh, TO; Ugbomoiko, DO; Ibrahim, AO; Adegboye, AA; Omonijo, A.Aim of the Study: To compare the efficacy of H&E and PAS staining techniques in the demonstration of TIP among patients attending Federal Medical Centre Keffi, Nasarawa state. Study Design: The study is a retrospective study, a total of 129 paraffin-embedded tissue blocks of patients who were diagnosed of TIP between January 1st 2013 and December 31st 2022 were retrieved from the archives of Histopathology laboratory and examined. Ten patients (10) with incomplete data were excluded. Methodology: A semi structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic data. The tissue blocks were sectioned at 4um and stained using Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining technique and Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) technique. The microscopic examination was done using x10 and x40 objectives of the Olympus light microscope. Results: The study showed that males were more affected with TIP than females with ratio 1.6: 1. Ages of patients ranged between 6 months-77 years with mean age of 24.8+1.87 years. The highest number of TIP cases was recorded in December. The ileal segment was the most perforated among the intestinal segments. The socioeconomic status of patients, availability of potable water supply as well as hygiene and sanitary practices were discovered to be key factors in typhoid fever infection and treatment outcomes. Conclusion: Although, both PAS and H&E staining techniques showed favorable features, the PAS technique gave better contrast and also revealed the perforation sites better than H&E at P<0.001. Hence, the PAS technique should be done alongside the H&E in the laboratory investigation of intestinal tissues.Item Assessment of Use of Medical Forensic Evidence in Investigation and Prosecution Process of Defilement Perpetrators, A Case Study of Ruiru Sub-County, Kenya(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-08) Muchemi, RW; Kariuki, J; Thaimuta, Z; Kariuki, P.Background: Defilement has been recognized as one of the crimes in which such a ceiling in evidential presentation is critical. According to WHO statistics, More than 95 million children are abused annually, Where Africa is the most affected continent. Defilement incidences are alarming globally, regionally, and locally. There are new cases of defilement reported every week with 83 % emanating from a well-known perpetrator to the survivor. Objective: The study aimed to assess the use of medical forensic evidence in the investigation and prosecution process of defilement perpetrators, A case study of Ruiru Sub-County, Kenya. Method: Research was conducted using an analytical cross-sectional approach. Sixty-six participants in the study were chosen using a stratified random sampling technique. The techniques used to collect the data were both qualitative and quantitative. The strength of the relationship between the dependent and independent variables was assessed using the Pearson correlation. The threshold for statistical significance was set at 0.05. Results: There was a significant correlation between Compliant with set standards against investigation and the prosecution of defilement incidences(p=.005). There was a significant Correlation between the Availability of forensic tools against investigation and the prosecution of defilement incidents(p=.000). Concerning the correlation between knowledge of the guardians against investigation and prosecution of defilement Incidents there was no significant association(p=.630). Conclusion: From this research, compliance with set standards and procedures for evidence admissibility of defilement evidence was adequate. Study respondents had good knowledge of the use of medical forensic evidence during the investigation and prosecution of defilement incidences. The study concluded that most of the facilities and officers are not equipped with materials for the collection of evidence.Item Home Management Practices among Caregivers on Malaria Treatment in Primary Healthcare Centre Amansea, Anambra State, Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Umeanaeto, PU; Adione, CM; Afulukwe, SC; Anumba, JU; Akulue, JC; Okwelogu, IS; Irikannu, KC.Malaria is a major cause of fever in children. When a child has fever, parents or caregivers commonly treat them as if they were affected by malaria, with available medicines at home, with or without proper information or guideline. This study was carried out to explore the effectiveness of the various home management practices on malaria treatment among caregivers in Primary Health Care Center Amansea, Awka North L.G.A, Anambra State between May and August 2021. Mothers and caregivers (N=200) visiting the facility and their children (N=200) were involved. Blood specimens were collected through venipuncture and analyzed by microscopy while data on management practices were collected using pretested, structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 25.0. Mothers and caregivers had good knowledge of the correct cause (70.0%), symptoms (63.0%) and preventive measures (53.5%) of malaria. Sources of medical treatment ranged from doctors (43.0%) to herbalist (13.5%) and 80% of them seek medical treatment within 24 hours of onset of fever. Caregivers preference of home treatment of malaria to hospital is greatly influenced by a lot of reasons with high cost of hospital bills (53.5%) being the highest reason among many. Prevalence of malaria among the mothers and caregivers was 36(18.0%) which was dependent on their age (X2=44.629, df=3, P=0.000) and educational status but not with occupation. However, malaria prevalence among the children was 50(25%) even though it was not significant in relation to age and sex of the children (P>0.05). The effectiveness of home management of malaria depends on the early diagnosis, prompt and appropriate use of health facilities for treatment of malaria symptom especially fever. Therefore, health programmes and special campaigns to enlighten mothers and caregivers on more of the dangers of delayed treatment for their children could help to improve their treatment seeking pattern.Item Assessment of Factors Influencing Utilization of Reproductive Health Services for Adolescents and Youth in Samburu County, Kenya(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Ali, HD; Mogere, D; Juma, J; Kariuki, P.Background: Globally, around 16 million teenagers give birth each year, with 95% of them coming from upcoming nations in developing nations like Kenya, youths deal with a variety of sexual and reproductive health issues. Youth in Kenya frequently experience serious health issues like unintended pregnancy, unsafe abortions, and sexually transmitted infections. Objective: The study aimed to assess factors influencing the use of youth-friendly reproductive health services among youths and adolescents in Samburu County, Kenya. Methods: The study employed an analytical cross-sectional study design. The Chi-square test for independence and binary logistic regression were employed to establish a relationship between independent and dependent variables. Results: From this study, the presence of a reproductive health facility (OR=2.4,95%CI=0.220-0.801) and community mobilization campaigns (OR=4.7,95%CI=0.093-0.485) increased the odds of utilizing youth-friendly reproductive health services. The presence of peer pressure (OR=2,95%CI=0.266-0.971), healthcare providers' poor attitude (OR=2.1,95%CI=0.276-0.881), and lack of privacy (OR=2,95%CI=0.290-0.974) reduced the odds of utilizing youth-friendly reproductive health services. Conclusion: In this study, the utilization of youth-friendly reproductive health services was 40.6%. The presence of a reproductive health facility, having visited a reproductive health facility, the presence of religious influence, and community mobilization campaigns increased the odds of utilizing youth-friendly reproductive health services. The presence of peer pressure, being male and single in the marital status category, healthcare providers' poor attitude, and lack of privacy reduced the odds of utilizing youth-friendly reproductive health services.Item Contribution to the Occurrence of the Blackfly (Diptera:Similiidae) in the Palestinian Territories, West Bank(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-09) Adawi, S; Handal, E; Romdhane, MS; Hmida, L.Aims: The primary objective of the study was to gather evidence regarding the presence of black fly fauna in the Palestinian environment. The research extensively examined breeding sites and habitats, as well as studied the physiochemical parameters of the water in these breeding sites. Furthermore, the study assessed the potential impacts of these insects on both humans and animals Study Design: A cross- sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: From January 2023 to August 2023, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in the West Bank-Salfit district to collect larvae and adult blackflies within the Wadi Qana protected area. Methodology: In January 2023, a field survey was conducted in the Wadi Qana protected area (32.12582, 34.8952) in the Salfit district to study the freshwater fauna. A total of 220 larvae individual of the Blackfly were collected from the running water in the valley. Forceps used to collect specimens and preserved in 70% ethanol, while adults of this group were examined under a dissecting microscope. The specimens were identified using various identification keys [4,9,12]. Results: During the study period, a total of 220 larvae were collected from breeding sites in the freshwater habitats of Wadi Qana. Two subgenera of blackflies were identified in the study area: Simulium (Wilhelmia) Enderlein and Simulium (Odgamia) Enderlein. The results indicate that blackflies breed in fast-flowing freshwater habitats covered by annual aquatic plants, with dissolved oxygen levels at 10.1 mg/L, pH average 8.2 and average temperature 21.6°C. No significant health effects were recorded or documented in the study area, except for the nuisance caused to humans and animals by the biting of blackflies. In conclusion, this study marks the first record and presence of the blackfly in the Palestinian environment. Further much more research is needed to explore their fauna, biology, ecology, habitats, distribution, and medical significance. Conclusion: blackfly was recorded for the first time in the Palestinian environment, more study research are needed to discussed the fauna, biology, ecology, habitats, distribution and the medically important.Item Assessment of Compliance with National Guidelines on Diagnosis and Treatment of Malaria among Health Workers in Anambra State, Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2023-08) Dim, BI; Nwafia, AE; Ibeh, CC; Chikwendu, JI; Okoye, CF; Chilaka, KC; Ekeocha, EJ; Ezenyeaku, CA.Background: Malaria case management remains a crucial component of malaria control strategies. Despite the introduction of national malaria treatment guidelines and scale-up of malaria control interventions in Nigeria, shreds of evidence have shown some deviations from the guidelines in malaria case management. This study assessed compliance with national guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of malaria among health workers in Anambra State. Materials and Methods: This comparative, cross-sectional hospital-based study was carried out among 360 healthcare workers selected from six Local Government Areas using a multistage sampling technique. A pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on their socio-demographics and other vital information. Results: The findings of this study revealed that Ninety-eight respondents (54.4%) from public health facilities had adequate knowledge of malaria case management compared to 67 respondents (37.2%) from private health facilities (p=0.001). The overall level of compliance with the national guidelines shows that only 22.2% of the health workers interviewed strictly complied with the national guidelines. It was significantly higher among public healthcare workers (31.7%) compared to 12.8% of private health workers (p<0.001). Training on malaria case management, access to national guidelines, availability of malaria diagnostic tools, and sex of the health workers were associated with compliance with national guidelines in both public and private health facilities (p<0.001). Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed a close similarity between the two health facilities in the level of awareness of the national malaria treatment guidelines, but a remarkable difference in compliance to appropriate case management of malaria between public and private health facilities. Interventions to improve private sector engagement in the implementation of the guidelines, training, and supply of recommended anti-malarial medicines should be intensified.