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Research Article
Awareness, Perception and Preventive Practices About Environmental Risk Factors Associated with Neurodegenerative Diseases Among Geriatric Patients in a Tertiary Hospital, Ibadan
Adejumo Mumuni*
,
Idowu Emmanuel Ayotomiwa
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
165-176
Received:
20 May 2025
Accepted:
17 June 2025
Published:
9 July 2025
Abstract: Environmental risk factors have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) conditions, particularly among the elderly. In Nigeria, the elderly population is steadily increasing while there is limited information on awareness, perception and preventive practices regarding these environmental risks. Therefore, this study was conducted to document the awareness, perception and preventive practices about environmental risk factors associated with NDDs among the elderly attending geriatric clinic in a tertiary hospital, Ibadan. A cross-sectional study was conducted among the 217 consented elderly aged 60 years and above attending Chief Tony Anenih Geriatric Centre, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. A validated interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test with level of significant set at 0.05. Respondents’ mean age was 73.8±8.7 years, 61.3% were female, 59.4% had tertiary education while 78.8% were living in their own house. All (100%) had heard about neurodegenerative diseases while the three major environmental risk factors reported were heavy metal exposure (79.7%), pesticides exposure (74.2%) and households’ toxins (70.5%). The mean perception score was 7.7±1.3, 80.6% had positive perceptions about environmental risk factors associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Some of the preventive practices reported by the respondents were purchasing eco-friendly household products (59.9%) and the use of non-toxic households’ products (58.1%). The mean preventive practice score was 6.9±0.9, 60.2% engaged in unhealthy practices. Respondent’s ages (χ2 = 22.621; p=<0.001), house ownership (χ2 = 4.061; p=0.034) and perception regarding environmental risk factors (χ2 = 6.448; p=0.027) were associated with respondents’ preventive practices. The three major reported barriers against preventive practice were limited access to health resources (100.0%), physical limitation (64.6%) and lack of awareness of risks (53.5%). Majority of the respondents were aware and had positive perception about environmental risk factors associated with neurodegenerative diseases, but engaged in unhealthy preventive practices. There is need for interventions focusing on environmental risk reduction to mitigate the burden of neurodegenerative diseases among the elderly in Nigeria.
Abstract: Environmental risk factors have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) conditions, particularly among the elderly. In Nigeria, the elderly population is steadily increasing while there is limited information on awareness, perception and preventive practices regarding these environmental risks. Therefore, this study...
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Research Article
Superiority of Three Directly Observed Treatment Compared to One Directly Observed Treatment in the Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention in Children Aged Under Five in Burkina Faso: A Quasi-Experimental Trial
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
177-188
Received:
28 May 2025
Accepted:
18 June 2025
Published:
18 July 2025
Abstract: The implementation of seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) in Burkina Faso has not achieved its objective of reducing by at least 60% the morbidity associated with malaria in children under 5 years of age. We assessed a new approach of delivery consisting for the community health workers to directly supervise the three doses of the treatment compared to the standard of delivery (only the first dose directly observed treatment). The objective of the study was to compare the superiority of three doses supervised intake of SMC (3DOT) to the supervised intake of the first dose only. Three centers for health and social promotion were randomly selected in the Gaoua health district (3DOT) and 4 in the Boromo health district (1DOT) to receive a monthly four rounds of SMC with Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine plus Amodiaquine (SP+AQ) in a quasi-experimental cluster randomized trial, before-after with a control group design which included in total 2440 children. The primary endpoint was the reduction in prevalence between each SMC round. The Khi-2 test was used to assess the superiority of 3DOT versus 1DOT. The reduction of malaria prevalence was significantly higher in 3DOT compared to the 1DOT, 68.60% vs 53.00% (p<.0001). The coverage in the 3DOT was significantly lower than that in the 1DOT, 81.39% versus 95.72%; p<0.0001 for optimal coverage. The 3DOT delivery approach of SMC provides better reduction of malaria prevalence than the 1DOT. However, the lower coverage obtained with the 3DOT compared to the 1DOT is a concerning issue to overcome in the perspective of the scale-up of this strategy at large scale.
Abstract: The implementation of seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) in Burkina Faso has not achieved its objective of reducing by at least 60% the morbidity associated with malaria in children under 5 years of age. We assessed a new approach of delivery consisting for the community health workers to directly supervise the three doses of the treatment comp...
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Research Article
Perception of Arterial Hypertension in Hypertensive Patients Undergoing Routine Consultation and Hospitalisation in Bangui
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
189-195
Received:
4 January 2025
Accepted:
7 March 2025
Published:
28 July 2025
Abstract: High blood pressure (HTA) has long been considered the preserve of wealthy countries. However, it also affects low-income countries such as the Central African Republic. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge of patients suffering from hypertension and their perception of prevention and management of the disease. It was a cross-sectional analytical study carried out in the three university hospitals and urban health centers of Bangui from April 15 to May 31, 2022. All consenting hypertensive patients were included. A total of 201 outpatients and inpatients with hypertension. Age ranged from 30 to 88 years, with an average of 43 years (±6.8 years), and 60.2% of the population was under 60. Of the 201 people surveyed, 78% were unfamiliar with the risk factors for the disease, 75% were unaware of the complications of hypertension, and 87% did not know how to prevent the disease or its complications. As for the perception of treatment, 23.8% thought that medication (oral antihypertensives) was ineffective and 51.3% thought it was restrictive. Diet was considered effective by 91.3%, but restrictive by 89% (high cost and complexity). The use of pharmacopoeias in addition to prescribed oral antihypertensives was reported by 36.3%. This study highlighted patients' low level of knowledge about the disease and the high cost of treatment and diet. Hence the importance of information, education and communication about this disease.
Abstract: High blood pressure (HTA) has long been considered the preserve of wealthy countries. However, it also affects low-income countries such as the Central African Republic. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge of patients suffering from hypertension and their perception of prevention and management of the disease. It was a cross-...
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Research Article
Assessment of the Relationship Between Cancer Prevalence and Lifestyle Risk Factors in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study at a National Cancer Hospital
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
196-204
Received:
26 May 2025
Accepted:
23 June 2025
Published:
31 July 2025
Abstract: Cancer is a growing public health concern worldwide, particularly in low and middle-income countries such as Bangladesh. Lifestyle factors, including dietary habits, smoking, and obesity, play a crucial role in cancer development. To provide updated insights for risk prediction and public health interventions this study aims is to collect and analyze patient data from the National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital (NICRH) to identify and evaluate the association of lifestyle risk factors with cancer incidence in Bangladesh. This study investigates the prevalence of different cancers and their association with modifiable risk factors among Bangladeshi cancer patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the NICRH where two-thirds (201) of the cancer patients’ data were involving to dominate the result. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and logistic regression analysis was performed by SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), version 26 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) to assess the relationship between cancer and lifestyle factors. The findings indicate that breast cancer (18.9%) was the most prevalent cancer, followed by lung (15.9%), stomach (12.9%), cervix uteri (12.9%), and esophageal cancer (6.5%). Lung cancer was most common in males (27.5%), whereas breast cancer was the most frequent in females (34.5%). The highest cancer incidents were observed in individuals aged 40-60 years. Smoking showed a significant association with lung cancer (OR: 1.230, P = 0.001), while obesity was strongly associated with breast cancer (OR: 1.43, P = 0.006). These findings highlight the urgent need for public health intervention, including tobacco control, obesity prevention, dietary modifications, and expanded cancer screening programs, to reduce cancer incidence in Bangladesh. Addressing these risk factors through policy-driven strategies and awareness initiatives could significantly improve cancer prevention and early detection efforts.
Abstract: Cancer is a growing public health concern worldwide, particularly in low and middle-income countries such as Bangladesh. Lifestyle factors, including dietary habits, smoking, and obesity, play a crucial role in cancer development. To provide updated insights for risk prediction and public health interventions this study aims is to collect and analy...
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Research Article
Digital Health Literacy Among Odontology Students in Senegal: Exploratory Survey
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
205-211
Received:
8 July 2025
Accepted:
24 July 2025
Published:
11 August 2025
Abstract: Background: The development of digital technologies has made scientific resources at university increasingly accessible to students. However, students need specific skills to locate, assess, and use this information effectively in their training and research. Digital health literacy (DHL) refers to the ability to use the Internet and other digital platforms to find, understand, and evaluate health-related information. This study aimed to assess the level of digital health literacy among dental students in Senegal. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 196 dental students at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar with proportional stratified sampling. The Digital Health Literacy Instrument (DHLI) was used to assess students’ DHL levels. The distribution of DHL scores according to gender, academic level, and type of information sought was analysed using Fisher’s exact test. Results: Students were more likely to seek general information (42%) than information related to their dental training (35%). The level of online health information search was estimated as average for 48.9% and low for 41.3% of participants. Regarding the ability to verify the reliability of online information, 48.2% demonstrated low competence. More than half of the students (55.2%) showed average skills in communicating via digital media. Only the distribution of Internet search skills by academic level and communication skills by gender were statistically significant (p < 0.01). Conclusion: This study revealed an overall average level of digital health literacy among dental students in Senegal, with particularly low performance in verifying information reliability. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions and greater integration of digital health literacy into dental curricula.
Abstract: Background: The development of digital technologies has made scientific resources at university increasingly accessible to students. However, students need specific skills to locate, assess, and use this information effectively in their training and research. Digital health literacy (DHL) refers to the ability to use the Internet and other digital ...
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Research Article
Spatial Variations and Factors Influencing HIV Testing Access in Guinea: A Secondary Analysis of the 2018 Demographic and Health Survey Data
Niouma Nestor Leno*,
Kayossi Florent Adjakou,
Condé Kaba,
Laurent Lehot
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
212-226
Received:
12 July 2025
Accepted:
24 July 2025
Published:
11 August 2025
Abstract: Background: HIV is a chronic infection that weakens the immune system. In sub-Saharan Africa, and more specifically in Guinea, access to HIV testing remains a significant issue in certain areas, with geographic disparities. This study aimed to analyze spatial variations and factors influencing access to HIV testing among men and women aged 15 to 49 years in Guinea in 2018. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of existing data. This study utilized data from the 2018 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) in Guinea. It was an ecological, cross-sectional study where the statistical unit was the health area. Spatial analysis was conducted through Moran's I coefficient, local autocorrelation, hot and cold spot analysis, and ordinal logistic regression. Results: Data from a total of 14,451 individuals distributed across 340 health areas and 38 health districts were analyzed. Most individuals had at least partial access to testing across all health areas. The percentages of moderate and optimal access decreased progressively among those with partial access. A significant global spatial autocorrelation was observed (I = 0.170; p < 0.001) for moderate access percentages and optimal access percentages (I = 0.232; p < 0.001). Age (OR = 1.005; 95% CI: 1.001-1.009; p = 0.009), gender (OR = 0.517; 95% CI: 0.481-0.555; p < 0.001), socioeconomic status (OR = 1.119; 95% CI: 1.031-1.215; p < 0.001), and residential setting (OR = 1.384; 95% CI: 1.239-1.491; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with testing access. Conclusion: This study reveals substantial geographic disparities in HIV testing access in Guinea, influenced by age, gender, socioeconomic status, and residence. Despite widespread awareness, moderate and optimal access remains limited, especially in rural areas. Targeted public health strategies such as community-based interventions, service decentralization, and integration into primary care are essential to improving coverage and ensuring equitable HIV service access nationwide.
Abstract: Background: HIV is a chronic infection that weakens the immune system. In sub-Saharan Africa, and more specifically in Guinea, access to HIV testing remains a significant issue in certain areas, with geographic disparities. This study aimed to analyze spatial variations and factors influencing access to HIV testing among men and women aged 15 to 49...
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Research Article
Women Dissatisfaction with Immediate Postnatal Care, Pure Qualitative Study
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
227-234
Received:
2 July 2025
Accepted:
10 July 2025
Published:
15 August 2025
Abstract: Back-ground: The immediate postnatal period refers to the time just after delivery to the first 24 hours. A large proportion of maternal and neonatal deaths occur during the first 24 hours after delivery. Giving immediate postnatal care, irrespective of the context around their birth reduce maternal and neonatal deaths and morbidity. There was a little study done on immediate postnatal women dissatisfaction among mothers who gave birth at Public Hospital, in South West Shewa by using qualitative study approach. Objectives: To explore the enables of women`s dissatisfaction with immediate post natal care among mothers who gave birth at Public Hospitals, in South West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia, 2023. Methods: A pure qualitative study was conducted 17 women who gave birth and 6 workers at Public Hospitals, South West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia. Purposive sampling technique was used to select study participants. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The results were presented using text and table. Results: Inadequate care given, inadequate information and counseling, Lack of Cleanliness and availability of infrastructure in the health facility and Lack of laboratory test, drugs and medical supply was identified as enables of women dissatisfaction with immediate postnatal care. Conclusion and Recommendation: Greater than half of women were dissatisfied with overall immediate postnatal care. Health facilities managers and health care providers should work hard together to improve immediate postnatal women dissatisfaction.
Abstract: Back-ground: The immediate postnatal period refers to the time just after delivery to the first 24 hours. A large proportion of maternal and neonatal deaths occur during the first 24 hours after delivery. Giving immediate postnatal care, irrespective of the context around their birth reduce maternal and neonatal deaths and morbidity. There was a li...
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Research Article
The Impact of Advanced Maternal Age on Embryo Quality and Pregnancy Outcomes in Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Sierra Leone
Safuan Muckson Sesay*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
235-243
Received:
20 May 2025
Accepted:
10 June 2025
Published:
30 August 2025
Abstract: This study examines the impact of advanced maternal age (AMA) on embryo quality and pregnancy outcomes among women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in Sierra Leone. AMA is increasingly recognized as a key factor affecting fertility outcomes, with age-related declines in oocyte quality posing challenges for older women seeking ART. Research at two fertility centers in Freetown involved women aged 35 and older, categorized into age groups (35-39, 40-44, and 45+). Results showed a significant decrease in high-quality embryos and live birth rates with increasing maternal age. Younger cohorts had higher clinical pregnancy rates, while miscarriage rates rose markedly in women over 40, highlighting age-related risks affecting ART success. The study highlights the importance of embryo quality in ART success, with high-quality embryos linked to higher clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Findings indicate that advanced maternal age reduces the likelihood of successful pregnancy and increases challenges due to higher chromosomal abnormalities. In Sierra Leone, where reproductive healthcare access is limited, AMA adds challenges due to cultural, social, and financial barriers. The study recommends expanding access to preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and ART education to improve embryo selection and support informed decision-making. The study's implications emphasize the need for policies supporting AMA women, addressing both biological and societal barriers. By promoting affordable ART options and age-sensitive counseling, reproductive health practitioners in Sierra Leone can better assist older women pursuing parenthood. This research enhances the understanding of age-related ART challenges in developing countries, providing insights for improving ART success and access in Sierra Leone and similar contexts.
Abstract: This study examines the impact of advanced maternal age (AMA) on embryo quality and pregnancy outcomes among women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in Sierra Leone. AMA is increasingly recognized as a key factor affecting fertility outcomes, with age-related declines in oocyte quality posing challenges for older women seeking ART...
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