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Knowledge, Attitude and Practice on Malaria and Associated Factors Among Residents in Pawe District, North West Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Habtamu Bedimo Beyene,
Nigus Fikrie Telele,
Asrat Hailu Mekuria
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
303-309
Received:
6 March 2015
Accepted:
18 March 2015
Published:
23 March 2015
Abstract: Introduction:A high knowledge score about the cause, transmission and habit of practicing the availablepreventive and control measures by the individual households and the communityat large contribute much to the overall reduction of the malaria burden. Hence this study is aimed to asses the Knowledge, attitude and practice towards malaria and associated factors. Methods:A community-based, cross sectional study was carried out in the period November, 2010 to January, 2011 in Pawi district, North West Ethiopia. A multi-stage random sampling technique was carried out to select representative households. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS 16.0. Proportions, Oddsratio and 95% CI were computed. Results: A total of 406 subjects were included in this study. Two hundred eighty (67%) of them were females. Subjects who mentioned at least three symptoms of malaria constituted 71.5%. Fifty six percent associated malaria with skipping meals, as a cause and most (67%) affirmed that mosquitoes transmit the disease. Significant proportions (79.8%) were aware that mosquitoes bite during night. Sleeping under bed net and avoiding collected water sources were identified as major malaria preventive measures by 89.7% and 34% of subjects respectively. About 69.2% reported that they were using bed nets correctly. Over 50% of therespondents stated that they would not seek treatment within 24 hours of onset of symptoms. Participants who had education> 5th grade and those who received health education from a health facility scored high on knowledge about malaria, correct use of bed nets and early treatment seekinghabits [OR (95%CI) =4.9(1.4-8), 1.8(1.4-2.5), 2.2(1.7-4.1), respectively]. Living in locations away from a health facility with walking time of 60 minutes or longerwas associated with delay in treatment (OR=1.3, 95%CI= (1.1-2.0).Conclusions and recommendations:Though malaria knowledge and Attitude scores were high,the practice of nationally approved malaria preventive and control measures including early treatment seeking behavior were poor. Inaccessibility of health facility, illiteracy, and lack of health education were determinant factors that affected community KAP towards malaria. Hence, a comprehensive health education, promotion of community education and health facility coverage should be prioritized.Responsible bodies are also urged to ensure that all individual in a household use ITNscorrectly, adapt integrated vector control approach and seek treatment early.
Abstract: Introduction:A high knowledge score about the cause, transmission and habit of practicing the availablepreventive and control measures by the individual households and the communityat large contribute much to the overall reduction of the malaria burden. Hence this study is aimed to asses the Knowledge, attitude and practice towards malaria and asso...
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Quality of Life in Diabetes Mellitus
Praveen Kumar,
Manu Krishna
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
310-313
Received:
25 February 2015
Accepted:
17 March 2015
Published:
26 March 2015
Abstract: Introduction: The need of adhering to treatment and restrictions on food choices adversely affect the satisfaction and happiness a diabetic can gain out of everyday life. Quality of life is an important component of diabetes management. Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, 200 patients of type 2 diabetes admitted in a tertiary care hospital were interviewed to assess their quality of life with the Quality of Life Instrument for Indian Diabetes Patients questionnaire. Selected socio-demographic variables were also checked for correlation with quality of life. Results: The quality of life score was found to be 107. The mean likert scores were 3.29 for role limitation due to physical health, 3.32 for physical endurance, 2.35 for general health, 3.25 for treatment satisfaction, 2.92 for symptom botherness, 3.27 for financial worries, 3.30 for emotional / mental health and 2.95 for diet satisfaction.Quality of life was found to depreciate with increasing age, years lived with diabetes and lower income class. Conclusion: Quality of life assessment and improvement is essential for appropriate diabetes management.
Abstract: Introduction: The need of adhering to treatment and restrictions on food choices adversely affect the satisfaction and happiness a diabetic can gain out of everyday life. Quality of life is an important component of diabetes management. Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, 200 patients of type 2 diabetes admitted in a tertiary care hospital ...
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Influence of Food Supplements on Testing for HIV and Aids and Adhering to Treatment in a Resource Poor Rural Setting: A Case of Chivuna, Southern Zambia
Harriet Ntalasha,
Jacob R. S. Malungo,
Sonja Merten,
Simona J. Simona
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
314-320
Received:
6 March 2015
Accepted:
31 March 2015
Published:
10 April 2015
Abstract: Background: There is a serious dearth of literature, particularly on Zambia, on the influential role of food supplements on people’s decision to take up an HIV test, start and adhere to AIDS treatment. Methods: Using data from a large ethnographic qualitative study in a resource poor rural setting in Zambia, this paper examines and documents the critical role of food supplements in influencing people to go for HIV testing, initiate treatment and stick to it. Results: Findings show that people who felt food insecure were reluctant to go for a test, thereby not accessing treatment and care services. The narratives revealed numerous aspects of food supplements, HIV testing, ART uptake and adherence, including desire to have access to food due to food insecurity, hoping and wishing to be found positive to access food, envying the HIV positive accessing food, desiring to have physical transformation and healthy-looking bodies enabled by increased access to food, reluctance and avoidance of taking the drugs without food, and worries about food once on medication. Conclusion: The study has shown a close link between food supplements, willingness to test, start taking medication and adherence. Therefore, food supplements should be made an integral part of HIV and AIDS related services in resource poor settings. This means devising more sustainable cross-sectional approaches to foster food security and general livelihoods, such as initiation of income generating activities among vulnerable rural poor, particularly those living with HIV and AIDS.
Abstract: Background: There is a serious dearth of literature, particularly on Zambia, on the influential role of food supplements on people’s decision to take up an HIV test, start and adhere to AIDS treatment. Methods: Using data from a large ethnographic qualitative study in a resource poor rural setting in Zambia, this paper examines and documents the cr...
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Demographic Pattern of Self-Injurious Behaviours Among Secondary School Students in Imo State
Benedicta Ndidi Agu,
Chuks Emmanuel Ezedum,
Olaoluwa Samson Agbaje
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
321-330
Received:
8 February 2015
Accepted:
1 March 2015
Published:
15 April 2015
Abstract: Self-injurious behaviours patterns among secondary school students in Imo State were investigated as a basis for proffering preventive strategies. The study utilized cross-sectional survey design. The population of the study consisted of 173,285 secondary school students in Imo State secondary schools. A sample of 2,160 students representing 1.2 per cent of the population participated in the study. Multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted to draw the sample from the population. A nine-item structured questionnaire was used for quantitative data collection while Focus Group Discussion Guide-FGDG was used for collecting qualitative data which were used to complement quantitative data. Cronbach’s Alpha statistic was employed to establish the reliability co-efficient of the instrument. The reliability coefficient value of 0.78 was obtained. Mean statistic and standard deviation were used to analyze research questions while student t-test statistic and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to test the five null hypotheses at .05 level of significance. Findings of the study indicated that there were significant (p < 0.05) differences in the self-injurious behaviours of secondary school students according to age (F = 20.69 > 3.00), school type (F = 20.97) and education zone (F = 6.31 > 3.00). Recommendations such as Imo State Ministries of Health and Information should lend logistic and manpower support to the State Universal Basic Education Board in the implementation of intervention strategies in schools and there should be state-wide public health campaign in secondary schools against self-injurious behaviours.
Abstract: Self-injurious behaviours patterns among secondary school students in Imo State were investigated as a basis for proffering preventive strategies. The study utilized cross-sectional survey design. The population of the study consisted of 173,285 secondary school students in Imo State secondary schools. A sample of 2,160 students representing 1.2 pe...
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The Relationship Between Anxiety and Academic Performance of Postgraduate International Students in a British University: A Cross-Sectional Quantitative Design
Dorcas Ibukun Adeoye-Agboola,
Hala Evans
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
331-338
Received:
18 March 2015
Accepted:
27 March 2015
Published:
17 April 2015
Abstract: Aims: Anxiety has a great effect on students’ academic performance, especially among international students. Acculturation, discrimination, familiarity with the education system, weather, social support, and language limitation are among the main factors which contribute to anxiety among international students. This small scale study assesses the relationship between anxiety and academic performance of international students among postgraduate international students of in the University of Bedfordshire. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was carried out. A non-randomised purposive sampling of n = 105 postgraduate international students participated in the survey comprising of 66 male, 39 female. The findings indicate that anxiety is significantly correlated to academic performance. Workload, choice of coping with stress, future prospect, and change in the system of education are the major types of anxiety affecting our participants giving significant relationship when cross-tabulated with gender and/ ethnicity. Also in the aspect of difficulties in focusing on their studies, more than 50% disagree showing a significant relationship when compared with gender. Anxiety is seen as a tool to explain academic performance. Hence, it is important that this is considered to make their learning experience more fulfilling.
Abstract: Aims: Anxiety has a great effect on students’ academic performance, especially among international students. Acculturation, discrimination, familiarity with the education system, weather, social support, and language limitation are among the main factors which contribute to anxiety among international students. This small scale study assesses the r...
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Magnitude and Determinants of Antenatal and Delivery Service Utilization in Arba Minch Town, South Ethiopia
Ewnetu Firdawek,
Dayan Aragu
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
339-343
Received:
26 March 2015
Accepted:
14 April 2015
Published:
23 April 2015
Abstract: Introduction: Maternal health care services utilization could save unnecessary severe complications and death among women during pregnancy, delivery and after delivery. Numerous factors such as characteristics of the women and their family, characteristics of illness as well as the health care system, including accessibility, acceptability, cost and quality of care, are contributed directly with the use of maternal health care. Thus it is necessary to examine these and other determinants of maternal health service utilization. Objectives: To assess the magnitude and determinants of Antenatal and delivery service utilization of pregnant women and women who delivered two years prior to the study in Arba Minch town. Methodology: Community based cross sectional study has been conducted on pregnant women and women who delivered two years prior to the study found in Arba Minch town in 2010. Simple random sampling technique was used to get the study subjects. Data were collected by trained personnel using a pre tested standardized questionnaire. Results: Among 774 respondents, mean number of pregnancy and delivery were 2.4 and 2.2 respectively. From mothers who were pregnant during the study period and 2 years prior to the study period, 715(92.4%) had ANC checkup and 478(66.8%) are preferred to deliver in health institutions. Level of education, marital status, husband’s attitude toward ANC, planned pregnancy, illness experience during last and current pregnancy, perceived susceptibility to dangerous health problems were found significantly associated with ANC utilization. For delivery service in health institution, Level of education, husband attitude towards ANC, age at first pregnancy, plan for pregnancy and ANC checkup during pregnancy to be significant predictors. Conclusion: Level of education, age at first pregnancy, plan for pregnancy and husband’s attitude were some of the factors that influence maternal health service utilization. Therefore programs and strategies should be focused on improving women education and male involvement in reproductive issue. More efforts also needed to strengthen the accessibility of maternal health services to the community.
Abstract: Introduction: Maternal health care services utilization could save unnecessary severe complications and death among women during pregnancy, delivery and after delivery. Numerous factors such as characteristics of the women and their family, characteristics of illness as well as the health care system, including accessibility, acceptability, cost an...
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Risk Factors Associated with Diarrhea Morbidity Among Children Younger than Five Years in the Atwima Nwabiagya District, Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study
Leslie Danquah,
Charlotte Monica Mensah,
Seth Agyemang,
Esi Awuah
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
344-352
Received:
24 March 2015
Accepted:
7 April 2015
Published:
18 April 2015
Abstract: This study was conducted in January 2013 to identify risk factors associated with diarrhea morbidity among children younger than 5 years in the Atwima Nwabiagya District, Ghana. A total of 378 households were drawn from four Atwima Nwabiagya District communities in the dry season using a systematic random sampling strategy. Quantitative data was collected from eligible households using interviewer-administered questionnaires and spot-checks. The relationships of socio-demographic, environmental, and behavioral factors with childhood diarrhea were assessed via logistic regression. The mother’s age [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.11–11.16] and educational level (aOR = 4.77, 95% CI = 1.85–12.28) and frequent playing on the bare ground with soil by the index child (aOR = 3.14, 95% CI = 1.40–7.05) were significant risk factors of childhood diarrhea. Water storage outside of the dwelling was significantly associated with a lower risk of diarrhea (aOR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.19–0.89). In the study communities, we recommend providing more education to mothers regarding environmentally-related disease transmission mechanisms, encouraging safe disposal of children’s stools, discouraging children from playing with soil on bare floors, and promoting safe drinking water storage.
Abstract: This study was conducted in January 2013 to identify risk factors associated with diarrhea morbidity among children younger than 5 years in the Atwima Nwabiagya District, Ghana. A total of 378 households were drawn from four Atwima Nwabiagya District communities in the dry season using a systematic random sampling strategy. Quantitative data was co...
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Infertility Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs of College Students in Grenada
Brittany Rouchou,
Martin S. Forde
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
353-360
Received:
30 March 2015
Accepted:
11 April 2015
Published:
21 April 2015
Abstract: The knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of college students in Grenada about infertility were assessed using a paper-based survey. The target population was students who attended the only college located on the island of Grenada. Five hundred and eight college students over the age of 16 out of the 1,946 students enrolled in the college at the time of the survey participated in this study with females comprising 65.7% (n = 334). The main research outcome measures for this study were to determine the level of knowledge of Grenadian college students on the causes of infertility as well as their knowledge of possible treatment options. Overall, while there was a moderate level of knowledge among both males and females with regards to the risk factors that may cause infertility, over 73% of the students believed that infertility may be caused by God’s will and approximately 58% believed in the power of prayer to treat infertility. While a greater proportion of female students answered more questions correctly in comparison to their male counterparts, there was a notable lack of basic knowledge among all Grenadian college students about the causes of infertility with the overall perception that women are more likely to become infertile due to any number of causes that are of equal risk to both men and women. Further, this survey found that there are greater stigmas attached to male infertility than to female infertility. Education programs and community support groups are recommended to increase knowledge about the causes of infertility as well as decrease the stigma associated with this condition.
Abstract: The knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of college students in Grenada about infertility were assessed using a paper-based survey. The target population was students who attended the only college located on the island of Grenada. Five hundred and eight college students over the age of 16 out of the 1,946 students enrolled in the college at the time of...
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Exercise Practice Among Women Attending Antenatal Care at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambiaq
Loveness A. Nkhata,
Esther Munalula-Nkandu,
Hastings Shula
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
361-365
Received:
6 April 2015
Accepted:
15 April 2015
Published:
27 April 2015
Abstract: Introduction: In the absence of medical or obstetrical complications, pregnant women are encouraged to continue and maintain active lifestyles during their pregnancies. Benefits of exercise during pregnancy include; prevention of excessive gestational weight gain, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, undergoing a caesarean section and reduced low back pain. The aim of the study was to obtain information on exercise practice among women attending antenatal care at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka, Zambia and establish whether, educational level, number of pregnancies and cultural background had an influence on exercise practice during pregnancy. Methods: We collected data using a self- administered questionnaire in a cross sectional, exploratory study and summarized data using descriptive statistics. The chi-square test was used to test association between variables and the significance level was set at 5%. Results: Three hundred women participated in the survey. The majority of the respondents 74% (n=222) exhibited inadequate levels of knowledge on exercise and the type of ideal exercises. Exercise practice in relation to the educational levels was insignificant. However, cultural background had a significant association to the women’s exercise practice (p-value 0.025). In addition, the number of pregnancies was positively associated to the women’s exercise practice (p-value 0.01) during pregnancy. Conclusions: Pregnant women practice general physical activities of daily living such as walking and household chores during pregnancy. They do not know the specific antenatal exercises. Consequently, they are not able to practice the ideal exercise during pregnancy. This highlights the need for Physiotherapy personnel to be actively involved during antenatal to educate pregnant women on the ideal exercise activities.
Abstract: Introduction: In the absence of medical or obstetrical complications, pregnant women are encouraged to continue and maintain active lifestyles during their pregnancies. Benefits of exercise during pregnancy include; prevention of excessive gestational weight gain, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, undergoing a caesarean section and reduced low b...
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Factors Affecting Adherence to Treatment of HIV in Exposed Infants in Mumias Region, Western Kenya
Sophia Musenjeri,
Serah Mbatia,
Joseph Nganga,
Matilu Mwau
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
366-372
Received:
1 April 2015
Accepted:
14 April 2015
Published:
23 April 2015
Abstract: Objective: To determine social-demographic and economic factors affecting adherence to treatment of HIV in exposed infants in Mumias region, Western Kenya. Methods: The study was a descriptive cross sectional study carried out among parents of HIV exposed infants in selected health facilities in western Kenya. Through random sampling, the study recruited three hundred and eighty four (384) parents aged between 15-66 years old. The parents who were recruited were seeking HIV testing, treatment and care for their infants. The laboratory procedure involved automated assay: Abbott Real-time HIV-1. Secondly, structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect information from parentsof the affected infants. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: 5.2% (20) of the participants tested positive while 94.8% (364) tested negative. Married participants were more likely to adhere to treatment (Odds ratio (OR) =1.062, 95%CI 0.628-1.796 P<0.05). Educated participants were more likely to attend their clinical appointments compared to the non-educated (0R=1.140, 95% C.I 0.949-1.369 P<0.05). Participants aged above 35 years old were more likely to adhere to treatment compared to those below 35 years old (OR=1.029, 95% C.I 0.985-1.074 P<0.05). Participants whose children tested negative at 6 weeks were more likely to adhere to treatment (OR=0.652, 95% C.I 0.185-2.305 P<0.05). Parentsunder the support of Community Health Workers (CHW) were more likely to adhere to treatment (OR=1.226, 95%C.I 0.419-3.581 P<0.05). Non-stigmatized mothers were more likely to adhere to treatment (OR=1.101, P<95% C.I 0.545-2.223). Conclusion: Adherence to treatment and care of HIV in exposed infants appears to be a significant challenge for HIV diagnostic and preventive services. To forestall the consequences, the stakeholders and government have to support the parents both financially and socially especially through public awareness campaigns to encourage them to adhere to treatment and care services.
Abstract: Objective: To determine social-demographic and economic factors affecting adherence to treatment of HIV in exposed infants in Mumias region, Western Kenya. Methods: The study was a descriptive cross sectional study carried out among parents of HIV exposed infants in selected health facilities in western Kenya. Through random sampling, the study rec...
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Canceling “Hospital's Reliance on Drug Sales”: China has Entered the Most Difficult Stage of Public Hospital Reform
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
373-374
Received:
16 April 2015
Accepted:
21 April 2015
Published:
30 April 2015
Abstract: The announcement of the next “5-year health reform plan” is accelerating public hospital reform in China. After more than three years of exploration and practice, China's reform of public hospitals has entered the most crucial stage. This paper summarizes the recent advances on China's public hospital reform, the existing problems and challenges and future directions for hospital reform in China.
Abstract: The announcement of the next “5-year health reform plan” is accelerating public hospital reform in China. After more than three years of exploration and practice, China's reform of public hospitals has entered the most crucial stage. This paper summarizes the recent advances on China's public hospital reform, the existing problems and challenges an...
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Relation Between Nutritional Risk Factors and Prevalence of Coronary Artery Disease in Smokers and Non-Smokers Resident in Jeddah Governorate, Saudi Arabia
Mostafa Osfor,
Ahmed Mohamed Ashshi,
Mohamed Abo Bakr Baslama,
Ammar Abdallah Attar,
Samaa El-Soadaa,
Mohamed Mohamed Khereldeen
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
375-383
Received:
1 April 2015
Accepted:
21 April 2015
Published:
4 May 2015
Abstract: National guidelines for coronary artery disease (CAD) risk reduction have focused on high-risk families, yet little is known about prevalence of risk factors in general population. To determine the magnitude of the problem relative to the general population, a community-based pilot study of the widely accepted CAD risk factors was carried out over the period of 12 months on a random sample of apparently healthy adults (n =880), aged 18 – 60 years, living in Jeddah Governorate. Three hundred eighty eight (388) subjects (156 males and 232 females) residing in Jeddah town (urban group) and four hundred ninety two (492) subjects (264 males and 228 females) adjoining different rural centers in Jeddah Governorate (rural group) participated. The study was based on complete history taking, prevalence of family history of CAD, obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and history of current cigarettes smoking. Body Mass Index (BMI) was significantly high in urban than rural men and in urban than rural women. Systolic hypertension was recorded in 30.8 % of urban men, 25.8 % of rural men, 24.6 % of rural women and 13.8 % of urban women. Total caloric intake per day was much increased in urban than rural women and in urban than rural men. Serum total cholesterol was significantly higher in urban men and women than in rural men and women respectively. Total cholesterol / HDL ratio showed insignificant difference in the studied groups. Serum Cu+2 and Mg+2 were significantly higher in urban than rural women. Serum Zn+2 and Zn+2 / Cu+2 ratios showed insignificant difference between the studied groups. Meanwhile, rural smokers showed significant increase in serum level of total cholesterol and Cu+2 with low Zn+2 levels. BMI correlated significantly with serum Mg+2 in urban women and serum Cu+2 in urban men. The prevalence risk factors for CAD were markedly raised in rural women and urban men, while rural men showed high prevalence of absence of risk factors. Prevalence of major risk factors increases in rural areas and may be due to dietary and life style changes. Serum trace elements like Cu+2, Zn+2 and Mg+2 may predict coronary ischemia as they correlated significantly with BMI and total caloric daily intake which might be affected by current smoking. Further studies of CAD risk factors, their predictive capacity, heritability estimates, and the degree of which they are amenable to treatment are actually needed.
Abstract: National guidelines for coronary artery disease (CAD) risk reduction have focused on high-risk families, yet little is known about prevalence of risk factors in general population. To determine the magnitude of the problem relative to the general population, a community-based pilot study of the widely accepted CAD risk factors was carried out over ...
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The Prevalence of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) and its Associated Risk Factors Among Immigrant Tibetan Pre-School Children in Bylakuppe, Mysore, India
Madhusudan Kushalappa. Kaikure,
Ann Thomas,
Sowmya B. Shetty,
Tony Jose,
Raghavendra Pidamale,
Savitha Lakshmi Kaikure
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
384-390
Received:
20 April 2015
Accepted:
27 April 2015
Published:
9 May 2015
Abstract: Objectives: This study estimated the prevalence of early childhood caries (ECC) and related risk factors in a population of immigrant Tibetan pre-school children in Bylakuppe of Mysore District; India. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted in 500 pre-school children between 10 to 72 months of age in and around Bylakuppe of Mysore district; India; using II stage stratified random sampling. The caries experience was recorded using defs and the deft index. Information regarding risk factors for caries was obtained through a structured questionnaire given to mothers/caretakers. Statistical data analysis: The data was statistically analyzed by using “chi-square” test and “ANOVA” test. Results: The prevalence of ECC in the study sample was significantly high. It was 92.2% with the mean defs score of 10.27 and the mean deft score of 6.15 (p<0.001vhs).Higher prevalence of ECC was found, in children with bottle feeding, addition of sugar to bottle content and to regular food, in-between meal snacking habits and increase intake of sweets like chocolate, candies and toffees, lesser frequency of brushing and child brushing unassisted/unsupervised. Reports of regular visits to the dentist were almost absent in the study population. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the high prevalence of ECC in the study population. Development of strategies and protocols; to prevent and manage ECC, based on the risk factors identified for these population, is essential to curb this oral health problem.
Abstract: Objectives: This study estimated the prevalence of early childhood caries (ECC) and related risk factors in a population of immigrant Tibetan pre-school children in Bylakuppe of Mysore District; India. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted in 500 pre-school children between 10 to 72 months of age in and around Bylakuppe of Mysore distr...
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Knowledge and Practices of Hand Washing and Glove Utiliz ation Among the Health Care Providers of Shenen Gibe Hospital, South West Ethiopia
Birhanu Stotie Alemu,
Asmamaw Demis Bezune,
Jophin Joseph,
Addis Adera Gebru,
Yonas Yimam Ayene,
Birhan Alemnew Tamene
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
391-397
Received:
3 April 2015
Accepted:
24 April 2015
Published:
9 May 2015
Abstract: Background Nosocomial or Hospital Acquired infections-Is an infection that is neither present nor incubating at the time the patient came to the health care facility(hospital). Nosocomial refers to the association between care and the subsequent onset of infection. To prevents this infection open hand washing and glove utilization practice is simple and an important method. Objectives: To investigate the knowledge and practice of hand washing and glove utilization among the health care workers of Shenen Gibe Hospital. Method: Acrosssectional study design was used to investigate the knowledge and practice of hand washing and glove utilization among the health care provider of Shenen Gibe Hospital. A structured self-administered pre-tested questionnaire was used for all 47 health professionals by Universal sampling techniques. Results: All the 47 staffs have responded to the questionnaire and the distribution of the staff was: 7(14.8%) physicians, 3(6.4%) were BSc Nurses, 21(44.8%) was clinical nurse, 8(17%) were mid wifery nurse, 5(10.6%) labtech. and the rest were anesthetist 3(6.4%). From this 15 (31.9%) were males and 32(68.1%) were females. From 47 respondents, 39(82.97%) and 32(68.08%) of them have adequate knowledge and practice of hand washing and glove utilization respectively. From the total of 47 respondents, 24(51%) of them have complied with the recommended procedures of hand washing and glove utilization, while 23(49%) of them did not comply. Conclusion and Recommendation: Majority of the study subjects have adequate knowledge and practice about hand washing and glove utilization. Most of the respondents were compiled with the recommended procedures of hand washing and glove utilization. Regular practice of hand washing and glove utilization requires regular supplies like soap, water, dry &clean to well and acceptable glove depending on the type of procedure to perform at all time. Therefore oromia health bureau should facilitate these facilities in the hospital wards. The hospital authorities are urged to post the general guidelines for the staff a teach hand washing sites.
Abstract: Background Nosocomial or Hospital Acquired infections-Is an infection that is neither present nor incubating at the time the patient came to the health care facility(hospital). Nosocomial refers to the association between care and the subsequent onset of infection. To prevents this infection open hand washing and glove utilization practice is simpl...
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Mothers’ Attitude Towards Childhood Diarrhea Management and Prevention in Under Five Children in Fenote Selam Town, West Gojjam, Amhara, Northwest Ethiopia
Desalegne Amare,
Getachew Mullu
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
398-403
Received:
6 March 2015
Accepted:
24 March 2015
Published:
13 May 2015
Abstract: Introduction: Global deaths of children aged less than five years from diarrhea have been estimated, resulting in about 800 000 fatalities worldwide annually, most occurring in sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia. More than 80% of these deaths occur in Asia and Africa (46% in Africa alone). Objective: The aim of this study was to assess attitude of mothers towards diarrhea management and prevention in under five children, in Fenote Selam Town, West Gojjam Zone, Amhara, Northwest Ethiopia, 2014. Methods: Community based Cross-sectional study was conducted from April-May 2014. The sample size was 846. Multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select sampling kebeles. Simple random sampling technique was used to select study units. Pretest was done in none sampling kebeles. Data were entered into Epi-info (version 3.5.1) statistical software package and then exported to SPSS software package version 16.0 for further analysis. Results: A total of 830 mothers were participated in the study. Overall, 416(50.1%) of mothers had favorable attitude. Of these, 337 (40.6%) of mothers had favorable attitude towards ORS usage and 192(23.1%) of mothers had favorable attitude towards immunization to prevent diarrhea. Conclusion: Overall, half of mothers of the Fenote Selam community had unfavorable attitude towards diarrhea management and prevention.
Abstract: Introduction: Global deaths of children aged less than five years from diarrhea have been estimated, resulting in about 800 000 fatalities worldwide annually, most occurring in sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia. More than 80% of these deaths occur in Asia and Africa (46% in Africa alone). Objective: The aim of this study was to assess attitude of m...
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Prevalence and Abortion Methods Employed by Women Working in Flower Farms of Batu Town, Ethiopia
Desalegn Bekele,
Mohammed Taha,
Fasil Tessema
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
404-409
Received:
19 April 2015
Accepted:
4 May 2015
Published:
13 May 2015
Abstract: Background: Each year, throughout the world, approximately 210 million women become pregnant and among these, 75 million pregnancies end in stillbirth, or spontaneous or induced abortion. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of abortion, its associated factors and preferences of health care usage among women of reproductive age working in flower farms of Batu town, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Methods: Institutional based cross sectional study was conducted from May 10 to 25, 2012 on 345 women of reproductive age who had history of pregnancy in the last six years while working in flower farms of Batu town. The study subjects were selected by simple random sampling. The data were collected by interviewer administered questionnaire for quantitative method. Quantitative data were coded and entered into and analyzed using SPSS for windows version 16.0. Binary logistic regression was done to test association between selected independent variables and outcome variable. Results: Abortion was reported by 87(25.6%) of those women. Out of these, 34(39.1%) were induced and 53(60.9%) spontaneous abortion. Women whose last pregnancy were unwanted were about 7.9 times more likely to have an abortion than those women whose last pregnancy were wanted (AOR [95% CI] =7.9[2.3, 26.8]). Women who had two and above births in the last six years were more likely to have an abortion compared to women who had one birth (AOR [95% CI] =4.9[2.3, 10.7]). Conclusions: Having more births in the last six years and having the last pregnancy unwanted were predictors of abortion in this study. Reaching more target group in encouraging women to utilize family planning especially condom and seek appropriate health care when it is needed is recommended.
Abstract: Background: Each year, throughout the world, approximately 210 million women become pregnant and among these, 75 million pregnancies end in stillbirth, or spontaneous or induced abortion. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of abortion, its associated factors and preferences of health care usage among women of reproductive age working in ...
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Food Taboos and Misconceptions Among Pregnant Women of Shashemene District, Ethiopia, 2012
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
410-416
Received:
19 April 2015
Accepted:
11 May 2015
Published:
15 May 2015
Abstract: Background: A food considered as a taboo is strictly forbidden, for health, cultural or spiritual reasons. Food taboos are known from virtually all human societies and may be found in various forms all over the world. Pregnancy is viewed as a critical period in the life of women and is usually subjected to a number of food taboos as a way of safeguarding their lives and that of the unborn baby. Poor maternal nutrition, especially in rural settings, adversely affects pregnancy and birth outcomes. In many local communities, pregnant women have food taboos with consequent depletion of vital nutrients. Malnutrition is one of the most serious health problems affecting children and their mothers in Ethiopia. As a result, there is lack of comprehensive information regarding practices and the factors associated with them in the study area. Therefore this study was aimed at measuring women who are likely to have certain taboos/misconceptions during pregnancy among pregnant women attending ANC services in public health institutions of shashemene district. Method: An institution based descriptive cross-sectional study design followed by Simple random sampling technique was used for 295 pregnant women, who are attending ANC service from public health institutions of Shashemene district. The Data was coded, entered in to EPI info 3.5.1 and exported to SPSS version 20.0 for further analysis. Frequencies, percentages, crude odds Ratio, 95% Confidence Intervals and multiple logistic-regressions were analyzed. Finally, the result of the study was presented using texts, figures and tables. Result: one half (49.8%) of total pregnant mothers encountered food taboos at least for one food item. food items avoided were, linseed 92 times, honey 84 times, milk 67 times, fatty meat 63 times, eggs 50 times, fruits 41 times and vegetables 17 times. Reasons mentioned for avoidance of this food item; Plastered on the fetal head, makes fatty baby and difficult delivery, fear of abortion, evil eye, fetal abnormality. Educational status showed a significant association with belief of balanced diet. Conclusion: The study revealed that food taboos and traditional beliefs relating to pregnancy exist and larger proportion of women still believes in old unscientific tales. This can be improved by strengthening the nutrition counseling component of ANC which was inadequate in the ANC package received. Empowering community based health workers in providing effective nutrition counseling should be explored. There is a need for nutrition education and awareness generation among women; Increasing literacy status to reduce taboos/misconceptions.
Abstract: Background: A food considered as a taboo is strictly forbidden, for health, cultural or spiritual reasons. Food taboos are known from virtually all human societies and may be found in various forms all over the world. Pregnancy is viewed as a critical period in the life of women and is usually subjected to a number of food taboos as a way of safegu...
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NNT Elimination and the Nigeria’s Health System: Where is the Missing Link
Jalal-Eddeen Abubakar Saleh,
Haruna Ismaila Adamu,
Adamu Ibrahim Ningi
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
417-422
Received:
5 May 2015
Accepted:
9 May 2015
Published:
19 May 2015
Abstract: In 1994 when the global neonatal tetanus (NNT) elimination campaign started gaining momentum, there were 104 out of the 161 developing countries that achieved the NNT elimination in 2000 with 24 other countries close to achieving. Nigeria is among the remaining countries that are yet to achieve the global NNT elimination target as set by the WHO. Although Nigeria plays a strategic role on the African continent, the government has failed to uphold the goals of the universal basic primary health care; this made the healthcare system operating below the minimum expected standard. The problems are more pronounced in the public health sector where there is a lack of timely information to combat infectious and communicable diseases, inadequate tracking of disease outbreaks to adequately treat and preventive further spread, poor surveillance and infectious disease tracking procedures; the adverse of all these would be health insecurity potentially endangering our security as a nation.
Abstract: In 1994 when the global neonatal tetanus (NNT) elimination campaign started gaining momentum, there were 104 out of the 161 developing countries that achieved the NNT elimination in 2000 with 24 other countries close to achieving. Nigeria is among the remaining countries that are yet to achieve the global NNT elimination target as set by the WHO. A...
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Assessment of Infection Control in Dental Clinics at Ibb City, Republic of Yemen: Dentists’ Perspective
Ahmed Mohammed Alduais,
Salah Ghalib Mogali
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
423-432
Received:
25 April 2015
Accepted:
11 May 2015
Published:
21 May 2015
Abstract: Purpose: The aim of this study was to find out the practical infection control procedures from the dentists’ perceptive at hospitals and dental centers at Ibb city in the Republic of Yemen. Method: The data was drawn using a researcher-made questionnaire, random sampling procedures was followed to select 252 dentists from the private, governmental, teaching hospitals and from dental centers at Ibb city in the Republic of Yemen, using a descriptive analysis. Results: The researchers found that the participating dentists agree to the weakness role of the administration regarding infection control where they varied in responding to the role of the dentists during the preparation stage and post treatment stage, but agreed to the treatment phase practices. There was a shortage in practical dealing with the medical waste management and clear shortage in the qualification and training among the nursing staff according to the collected data. The biggest problem with the reviewers who have infectious diseases and didn’t reveal their health status to the dentists with percentage 62.7% dissatisfied the current infection control management, also dissatisfied the role administration of the hospital and the Ministry of the Health. Conclusion: These findings are the first to document the practical infection control and the role of administration in Yemen. The situation is very critical and an action needs to be taken by decision-makers and health organizations.
Abstract: Purpose: The aim of this study was to find out the practical infection control procedures from the dentists’ perceptive at hospitals and dental centers at Ibb city in the Republic of Yemen. Method: The data was drawn using a researcher-made questionnaire, random sampling procedures was followed to select 252 dentists from the private, governmental,...
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Prevalence and Forms of Sexual Harassment of Girls by Male Students of Secondary Schools in Ohafia LGA, Abia State
Pamella Chima Uduma,
Effiong S. Samuel,
Olaoluwa Samson Agbaje
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, May 2015
Pages:
433-444
Received:
28 March 2015
Accepted:
10 April 2015
Published:
23 May 2015
Abstract: The study investigated prevalence and forms of sexual harassment of girls by male students of secondary schools in Ohafia Local Government Area-LGA, Abia State. Five specific objectives with corresponding research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study. The cross-sectional survey research design was used for the study. The multi-stage sampling procedure was used to draw a sample of 600 out of 2,400 girls who enrolled in secondary schools during 2011/2012 academic session. Two instruments were used for data collection: A researcher-designed instrument titled Questionnaire on Prevalence and Forms of Sexual Harassment of Girls (QPFSHG) and Sexual Harassment of Girls Focus Group Discussion Guide (SHGFGDG). Split–half method was used to determine the reliability of the entire instrument (QPFSHG) using Spearman–Brown correction formula statistic. Also, Kuder-Richardson-20 formula was used to establish the inter-item reliability co-efficient of the subscale which had nominal data. The reliability co-efficient obtained for the subscale was .77. The data collected were analyzed using frequency and percentage. The hypotheses were tested using Chi-square (2) statistic at .05 level of significance. Based on the findings, the researchers recommended among others that the school authority should establish an office for reporting cases of sexual harassment where confidentiality should be entrenched to encourage victims to lodge complaints and also, there is need to educate girls about sexuality, and human rights. Furthermore, commensurate punitive actions should be taken against sexual harassment offenders when convicted to serve as deterrence to other male students.
Abstract: The study investigated prevalence and forms of sexual harassment of girls by male students of secondary schools in Ohafia Local Government Area-LGA, Abia State. Five specific objectives with corresponding research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study. The cross-sectional survey research design was used for the study. The multi-stage...
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