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Research Article
Investigating the Role of Socio-Demographic Factors in Shaping Consumer Attitudes Towards Food Safety in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study
Md. Abdullah Al Mamun Hridoy*
,
Md. Hafijul Islam,
Andleeb Masood,
Zulfaqar Sa'adi,
Niraj Bohora,
Md. Saiful Islam,
Monoara Akter Lima,
Md. Khalid Hasan,
Dewan Hasan Al Mostakim,
Asif Al Jami Rajin,
Mominul Haque,
Md. Mahdi Hasan Munna,
Md. Musfikur Rahman,
Nusrat Bahar,
Anik Sarker,
Pritam Kummer Barmon,
Md. Mehedi Hasan,
Kazi Rafsan Zaman,
Munni Begum
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
77-87
Received:
17 February 2025
Accepted:
3 March 2025
Published:
21 March 2025
Abstract: Background: Food safety remains a major public health concern globally, with foodborne illnesses resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. In Bangladesh, food safety is compounded by challenges such as poor infrastructure, weak regulatory systems, and low public awareness. The increase in foodborne diseases, especially in urban areas, calls for an investigation into consumer attitudes and practices regarding food safety. Objectives: This study aims to examine the influence of socio-demographic factors (age, gender, education, income, occupation, household size) on consumer attitudes toward food safety and to assess the level of knowledge and awareness about food safety practices among consumers in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from October to December 2024 across 19 districts in Bangladesh, involving 511 food consumers. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires. Analysis in RStudio 4.3.2 included descriptive statistics, and multivariate, and multinomial logistic regression to assess predictors of food safety attitudes and knowledge. Results: The study found that education level significantly influenced food safety attitudes (p = 0.002). However, factors like age, gender, and income had no significant impact. Respondents also lacked knowledge about foodborne pathogens, such as Hepatitis A, highlighting gaps in food safety awareness. Conclusion: Consumer education is crucial for improving food safety practices. Policy interventions should focus on enhancing public knowledge, particularly among vulnerable populations, to reduce foodborne diseases in Bangladesh.
Abstract: Background: Food safety remains a major public health concern globally, with foodborne illnesses resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. In Bangladesh, food safety is compounded by challenges such as poor infrastructure, weak regulatory systems, and low public awareness. The increase in foodborne diseases, especially in urban areas, calls...
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Research Article
Knowledge and Practices of Healthcare Providers Regarding Healthcare-Associated Infections in a Semi-Urban Health Center in Senegal, 2024
Ibrahima Ndiaye*,
Mamadou Makhtar Mbacke Leye,
Mame Diarra Ndour,
Ibrahima Seck
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
88-100
Received:
23 March 2025
Accepted:
31 March 2025
Published:
30 April 2025
Abstract: Given the scale of healthcare-associated infections worldwide, particularly in Senegal, and the key role played by healthcare personnel in preventing them, it is necessary to study the factors associated with healthcare providers' knowledge and practices regarding healthcare-associated infections (HAI). A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was carried out among nursing staff at Semi-Urban Health center (Keur Massar) in 2024. An exhaustive recruitment was carried out and data were collected using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed using R 4.4.2 software. Qualitative variables were described by absolute and relative frequencies and quantitative variables by mean, standard deviation and extremes. The binary logistic regression method was used for the multivariate analysis. The adjusted Odds Ratios with their 95% confidence intervals were determined for each variable retained in the final model. A total of 90 people were surveyed. The average age of those surveyed was 35 ± 9.37 years, with extremes of 19 and 64 years. Women predominated, accounting for 74.4% of respondents. Only 22.2% of staff had a good knowledge of healthcare-associated infections. In all, 56.7% of those surveyed had good preventive practices with regard to healthcare-associated infections. Doctors (aOR = 19.30 [4.07 - 126]) and people with more than 10 years' professional experience (aOR = 5.88 [1.15-33.33]) were more likely to have good knowledge of HAIs. Paramedics (nurses, midwives) were more likely to have good HAI prevention practices (aOR= 5 [1.37- 20]). The knowledge and practices of healthcare providers in relation to HAIs were found to be inadequate. Professional experience of more than 10 years and the profession of doctor were positively associated with knowledge; the professions of nurse and midwife were associated with good HAI prevention practices. Ongoing training and the availability of the necessary guidelines can help to improve the knowledge and practices of healthcare personnel in the prevention of HAIs.
Abstract: Given the scale of healthcare-associated infections worldwide, particularly in Senegal, and the key role played by healthcare personnel in preventing them, it is necessary to study the factors associated with healthcare providers' knowledge and practices regarding healthcare-associated infections (HAI). A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional ...
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Research Article
Overview of HTS: The Road Map to Achieving and Sustaining the USAID Target for 2030
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
101-105
Received:
1 April 2025
Accepted:
17 April 2025
Published:
14 May 2025
Abstract: The burden of HIV around the world especially in developing countries in West Africa is heavy, with a prevalence of 1.4% in Nigeria. The degree of new HIV infection among people in Nigeria should be exponential since the NAIIS survey that was conducted in 2018. This is one of the reason USAID intensified the 95:95:95 target to ensure that 95% of the population knows their status by screening for HIV, 95% of People Living with HIV (PLHIV) are linked to treatment and remain on treatment while maintaining 95% viral suppression. To achieve this target, HTS, which covers the first 95% target needs to be understood because, every other 95 goal is dependent on it. Apart from initiation of treatment for HIV positive clients after testing, HTS also have other outcome for clients whose HIV result is negative which can be categorized as preventive services, which is usually offered at the point of care. Healthcare workers and other relevant stakeholders in the HIV eco space needs a full grasp of this important first 95 to ensure proper viral load suppression and reduction of new infections. Hence, this synoptic review focuses on an overview of HTS as the road map to achieve and sustain the USAID goal for 2030 which include stakeholder collaboration, community engagement and outreaches, training of community testers, Index Case Testing, health promotion, embrace research breakthroughs, among others which are elicited in this paper.
Abstract: The burden of HIV around the world especially in developing countries in West Africa is heavy, with a prevalence of 1.4% in Nigeria. The degree of new HIV infection among people in Nigeria should be exponential since the NAIIS survey that was conducted in 2018. This is one of the reason USAID intensified the 95:95:95 target to ensure that 95% of th...
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Research Article
Availability of Health Services and Preparedness for Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care in Togo
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
106-119
Received:
7 April 2025
Accepted:
22 April 2025
Published:
26 May 2025
Abstract: Introduction: Togo, like many low-income countries, faces critical challenges in reducing maternal mortality, including limited access to care, inconsistent service quality, and regional disparities in healthcare availability. Improving the accessibility and readiness of health facilities is essential to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths by ensuring timely and adequate care. This study aims to assess the preparedness and availability of services necessary to deliver Basic Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care (BEmONC), focusing on the seven essential functions defined by WHO. Using data from the 2021 Harmonized Health Facility Assessment (HHFA) a national cross-sectional survey the study evaluates service availability and readiness across healthcare facilities. Availability was measured based on the presence of the seven BEmONC signal functions, while preparedness was assessed using a composite index that includes three key criteria: trained staff, essential diagnostic equipment, and access to necessary medications. This methodological framework offers a comprehensive evaluation of the capacity of healthcare facilities to manage obstetric and neonatal emergencies in a resource-limited setting, providing critical insights for strengthening maternal and neonatal healthcare systems. Results: An analysis of 200 healthcare facilities in Togo revealed that 76 (38%) of these facilities offer BEmONC services. Hospitals demonstrate superior availability of the seven essential functions and exhibit a higher average preparedness score in comparison to medical-social centres and dispensaries (p<0.05). The study identified that higher preparedness is associated with the geographical location of facilities, the regular undertaking of maternal and neonatal death reviews, and the evaluation of patient feedback. However, disparities persist, particularly in the availability of certain essential interventions, such as manual removal of retained products of conception and neonatal resuscitation. The paucity of ongoing staff training has also been identified as a barrier to the enhancement of services. Conclusion: This study highlights significant disparities in the availability and preparedness of healthcare facilities in Togo to provide BEmONC services. To address this, it is crucial for the Ministry of Health to strengthen quality assurance and implement systematic maternal and neonatal death audits in healthcare centers. An equitable distribution of clinical guidelines, essential medications, equipment, and continuous training is also necessary to improve access to and the quality of BEmONC services. These measures will strengthen facility preparedness and ensure the provision of quality emergency obstetric and neonatal care, especially in resource-limited areas.
Abstract: Introduction: Togo, like many low-income countries, faces critical challenges in reducing maternal mortality, including limited access to care, inconsistent service quality, and regional disparities in healthcare availability. Improving the accessibility and readiness of health facilities is essential to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths by ensur...
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Research Article
Population-Based Stimulant Toxicity Death Rate in Newfoundland and Labrador: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Cindy Whitten*,
Shane Randell,
Nash Denic,
Khadija Ibrahim
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
120-128
Received:
8 April 2025
Accepted:
18 April 2025
Published:
26 May 2025
Abstract: Objective: Substance use is a growing concern in Canada that is characterized by a multitude of contributing factors. Subsequently, there has been a rise in both the harms associated with substance use as well as substance-related acute toxicity deaths. This study will quantify stimulant toxicity deaths in Newfoundland and Labrador. Methods: This study used a retrospective cohort design to characterize the sample of patients who died via stimulant toxicity in NL from January 1st, 2020 to December 31st, 2023. Results: Stimulant-related deaths in Newfoundland and Labrador increased between 2020 (n=10) and 2023 (n=31); this increase is generally in line with national trends. Males consistently surpassed females for all stimulant-related drug toxicity deaths throughout our period of observation by large ratios. Both sexes have seen upward trends in total stimulant-related drug toxicity deaths for each year of observation. Stimulants were frequently used in conjunction with opioids. We were interested in the role of polysubstances within our sample and found that almost half (48.5%) of the substances involved in stimulant-related deaths contained opioids. Conclusion: Significant increases in stimulant-related mortality warrant further study of stimulant use in the country and reinforce the need to identify effective policy solutions. Almost all (96%) stimulant-related deaths reported in NL from 2020-2023 were accidental, further justifying the need for the identification of relevant risk factors and effective initiatives aimed at reducing stimulant misuse.
Abstract: Objective: Substance use is a growing concern in Canada that is characterized by a multitude of contributing factors. Subsequently, there has been a rise in both the harms associated with substance use as well as substance-related acute toxicity deaths. This study will quantify stimulant toxicity deaths in Newfoundland and Labrador. Methods: This s...
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Research Article
Factors Associated with Complete HPV Vaccination Among Girls Aged 11-13 Years in Diakhao Health District in 2021
Fatoumata Binetou Diongue*,
Ablaye Touré,
Oumar Bassoum,
Amadou Diallo,
Adama Sow,
Ibrahima Ndiaye,
Jean Augustin Diégane Tine,
Ndeye Marème Sougou,
Maty Diagne Camara,
Lamine Gaye,
Mayacine Diongue,
Mamadou MM Leye,
Ibrahima Seck,
Adama Faye
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
129-139
Received:
19 January 2025
Accepted:
13 February 2025
Published:
29 May 2025
Abstract: Introduction: In 2021, (88.6%) of Senegal's 79 districts had not reached the full Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage target of (90%). The Diakhao health district had full vaccination coverage of (10%) in the same year. This study aimed to identify factors associated with full vaccination coverage among girls aged 11-13 in Diakhao health district. Method: This was a descriptive and analytical study conducted in Diakhao health district among 228 custodial mothers of young girls aged 11-13 years. Data were collected using a questionnaire assessing the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and satisfaction of custodial mothers of young girls aged 11-13 years about HPV vaccination. Descriptive, bivariate analysis, and logistic regression were performed at 5% alpha. Results: The majority (74.12%) of mothers and guardians had heard of cervical cancer, and 81.58% had heard of HPV vaccination. According to the mothers and guardians of young girls, there was complete coverage (17.54%). According to the vaccination card, complete coverage was (15.79%). Factors associated with complete coverage were: the girl's schooling (ORa = 3.56 (1.12-11.29); having heard about cervical cancer vaccination (ORa = 0.09 (0.02, 0.32)]); rural residence (ORa = 0.13 (0.04-0. 44); agreement with vaccination for reasons of protection against certain communicable diseases (ORa = 8.95 (1.27-63.11) or reasons of vaccination of neighbors' children (ORa = 3.25 (1.24-8.55), satisfaction with counseling (ORa = 6.49 (1.63-25.8). Conclusion: Information to mothers or guardians of young girls is crucial to achieving the goal of full immunization coverage. It could be significantly improved by an acceleration plan focusing on interpersonal communication.
Abstract: Introduction: In 2021, (88.6%) of Senegal's 79 districts had not reached the full Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage target of (90%). The Diakhao health district had full vaccination coverage of (10%) in the same year. This study aimed to identify factors associated with full vaccination coverage among girls aged 11-13 in Diakhao healt...
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Research Article
Contrasting User Benefit Baskets and Provider Payment Options Seeking National Social Health Insurance Choices in Selected Districts for Sierra Leone
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
140-154
Received:
16 April 2025
Accepted:
7 May 2025
Published:
18 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20251002.17
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Abstract: In this article, we examine the healthcare potential of the relationship between User/ Benefit Baskets (BB) and Provider/ Payment Options (PO) evolving in six (6) Regional Districts in Sierra Leone, an emerging country in West Africa, and detail how components of Benefit Baskets and Payment Options can impact the nature and scope of implementing a National Social Health Insurance Program in Sierra Leone. Identified and perceived relationships, as revealed by a cross-sectional study, are presented with contextual data from users and providers in the respective six districts. Quantitative data was collected (from August to December 2019) for this research study using a semi-structured questionnaire with a sample size of 1,503 respondents made up of 1,185 household heads and 318 healthcare providers. Data collection, which began during 2019, was analyzed into essential descriptive and inferential statistics. Statistical analysis was run at a significant 5% level using Stata vs 14.0 software. Our results reveal that factors such as marital status, religion, occupation, monthly income, and the district of residents in Sierra Leone were more likely to influence the magnitude of contributions for the content of a User/ Benefit Basket. In contrast, the selection of a Provider/ Payment Option by healthcare providers – such as Diagnostic-Related Grouping (DRG) and Fees-for-Service (FFS), were more likely to be influenced by the level of care provided by the healthcare providers and by the Regional District in which the service providers were situated and operated. Based on our findings, key contextual factors are most likely to influence the content of BBs and POs in Sierra Leone. Hence, we submit that it is appropriate for such contextual factors associated with BBs and POs to be adequately and rigorously considered upon the implementation of a National Social Health Insurance Program for the people of Sierra Leone.
Abstract: In this article, we examine the healthcare potential of the relationship between User/ Benefit Baskets (BB) and Provider/ Payment Options (PO) evolving in six (6) Regional Districts in Sierra Leone, an emerging country in West Africa, and detail how components of Benefit Baskets and Payment Options can impact the nature and scope of implementing a ...
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Research Article
Descriptive Cross Sectional Study of Tramadol Abuse Among Yelyelo Drivers in the Tamale Metropolis
Abukari Salifu*,
Abdul Muizz Muktar Tikumah,
Seidu Toufique
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
155-168
Received:
25 April 2025
Accepted:
19 May 2025
Published:
19 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20251002.18
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Abstract: Background: Tramadol use has become a major public health concern in Ghana, particularly among yeloyelo drivers in the Tamale metropolis. This study is set out to discuss the factors that contribute to the ustramadol among tricycle drivers in the Tamale metropolis Northern Region of Ghana. Methods: The study employed the quantitave method. The multi-stage sampling technique was used. The simple random sampling techniques wsa used to select 420 respondents from selected tricycle terminals in the Tamale Metropolis. The results were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Results: It was revealed that 2.9% respondants were using tramadol under physician prescription, 97.1% respondents were using tramadol without prescription from a physician which amount to abusing the drug. The study revealed that averagely, the daily milligram (mg) intake of tramadol among tricycle drivers in the Tamale metropolis was 155.5 ± 91.6 mg, with majority of respondents using tramadol by taking in various unapproved strengths/dosages of 500, 250, 200 and 150 dosages (mg) respectively. Conclusion: The study found out that the three most compelling reasons why tricycle drivers use tramadol are; to reinvigorate themselves and become physically active (38.1%), to relieve pains (20.0%) and peer pressure (14.5%). The study finally indicates that nausea, road accident, sleepingness and dizziness are possible effects of tramadol use. While, anxiety, depression, aggressiveness, seizures and inattentiveness and the inability to focus are the other side effects of tramadol use.
Abstract: Background: Tramadol use has become a major public health concern in Ghana, particularly among yeloyelo drivers in the Tamale metropolis. This study is set out to discuss the factors that contribute to the ustramadol among tricycle drivers in the Tamale metropolis Northern Region of Ghana. Methods: The study employed the quantitave method. The mult...
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Research Article
Analysis of Electrocardiogram Changes in in COPD Patients and Controls in the Shahrekord City: A Cohort Study Population in 2020
Mohammad Bahabin Boroujeni*,
Hanifeh Ganji,
Marzieh Nasiri
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
169-178
Received:
27 April 2025
Accepted:
15 May 2025
Published:
19 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20251002.19
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Abstract: Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the most prevalent and rapidly growing health problems worldwide. It is a progressive disease characterized by limited or obstructed airflow that is irreversible. "COPD is primarily caused by an excessive inflammatory response to inhaled pollutants and irritants, and is often characterized by a chronic cough, with or without mucus production. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two conditions that comprise COPD, and they are not always precisely distinguishable. Due to the high prevalence of COPD among the elderly population, extensive studies have reported various electrocardiogram (ECG) changes in these patients. Examples include alterations in the axis and height of the P wave and a decrease in the height of the QRS complex in limb and precordial leads. Although not all COPD patients undergo routine ECG evaluations, the occurrence of various arrhythmias remains one of the significant and preventable causes of death in this population. Multiple factors, such as impaired autonomic control of cardiac and pulmonary function, may contribute to the development of arrhythmias in COPD patients. Method: A total of 86 individuals diagnosed with COPD were selected through census sampling and considered the case group. For the control group, twice the number of participants (individuals without any obstructive pulmonary disease) were selected from the cohort population. Information on COPD patients were confirmed via spirometry, and their ECGs were analyzed for arrhythmias and abnormal changes.". These included alterations in wave axes, lengthening or shortening of waves, changes in the R wave, and other deviations from the normal ECG pattern. The collected data were then analyzed and compared using statistical tests. Findings: This study included 85 COPD patients and 168 healthy individuals as the control group, comprising a total of 253 participants. The mean age of the study population was 50.8 years, with 54% of the participants being female and 45% of the COPD patients being male. Significant ECG changes observed in COPD patients compared to the control group included weak progression of the R wave, atrial abnormalities (right atrial enlargement [RAE] and left atrial enlargement [LAE]), right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH), decreased QRS duration, and a short QT interval (P-value < 0.05). Conclusion: The observed ECG changes, such as weak R wave progression and atrial abnormalities, emphasize the importance of ECG as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for identifying cardiovascular complications in COPD patients. This highlights the need for regular cardiac monitoring in these individuals. Since certain cardiac complications in COPD patients are preventable or manageable, regular examinations such as ECG and echocardiography are recommended.
Abstract: Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the most prevalent and rapidly growing health problems worldwide. It is a progressive disease characterized by limited or obstructed airflow that is irreversible. "COPD is primarily caused by an excessive inflammatory response to inhaled pollutants and irritants, and is often charac...
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Research Article
Review: The Multifaceted Roles of Lactate in Gastric Cancer and Its Therapeutic Potential
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
180-187
Received:
20 May 2025
Accepted:
16 June 2025
Published:
22 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20251002.20
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Abstract: Gastric cancer (GC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with persistent challenges in overcoming treatment resistance and recurrence. Lactic acid was once considered a metabolic waste, but now it is considered a multifunctional coordinator of GC progression. This review synthesizes emerging evidence on lactate’s multifaceted roles in GC progression, elucidating lactate's multifaceted roles in GC pathogenesis, including its regulation of tumor metabolic heterogeneity, epigenetic reprogramming, and immune microenvironment remodeling. Lactate fosters metabolic symbiosis between glycolytic and oxidative tumor cells, sustains chemoresistance via histone lactylation, RNA methylation, and chromatin phase separation, and promotes the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling and immune evasion by suppressing CD8+ T-cell function and polarizing tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) towards an M2 phenotype. and polarizing tumor-associated macrophages. Critically, lactate synergizes with Helicobacter pylori (Hp) to form a microbiome-metabolite axis that amplifies bacterial virulence, induces genomic instability, and accelerates malignant transformation. Therapeutic strategies targeting lactate production (LDH-A inhibitors), transport (MCT1/4 blockers), and signaling (epigenetic modulators/lactylation inhibitors) show promise in disrupting these oncogenic circuits. Nanotechnology-driven approaches and microbiome modulation (engineered probiotics) further enhance precision delivery and efficacy. Understanding the interplay between lactate, the tumor microenvironment (TME), and microbial communities offers novel avenues for overcoming therapeutic resistance and improving GC outcomes.
Abstract: Gastric cancer (GC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with persistent challenges in overcoming treatment resistance and recurrence. Lactic acid was once considered a metabolic waste, but now it is considered a multifunctional coordinator of GC progression. This review synthesizes emerging evidence on lactate’s multifacet...
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