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Research Article
Determinants of Diabetes-hypertension Comorbidity Among Pregnant Women Attending Primary Healthcare Centres in Urban Rivers State, Nigeria
Anthony Ike Wegbom*
,
Priscilia Nyekpunwo Ogbonda,
Nneoma Nyemekworu Akani Samuel
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
92-104
Received:
6 February 2026
Accepted:
9 March 2026
Published:
26 March 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20261102.11
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Abstract: The coexistence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension during pregnancy represents an important public health concern in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. This study determined the prevalence and factors associated with comorbid diabetes and hypertension among pregnant women attending primary healthcare centres in an urban area of Rivers State, Nigeria. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 306 pregnant women selected using multistage and systematic random sampling from nine primary healthcare centres between December 2024 and January 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and standardized measurements of fasting blood glucose and blood pressure. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participants’ characteristics and prevalence estimates, and binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with comorbidity at the p < 0.05 significance level. The prevalence of diabetes–hypertension comorbidity was 4.9% (95% CI: 2.5–7.3). The prevalence of diabetes was 34.6% (95% CI: 26.1–38.8), and hypertension was 8.8% (95% CI: 5.6–12.0). The higher prevalence of diabetes compared with comorbidity reflects the fact that many women had hyperglycaemia without concurrent hypertension. Increasing age, occupation, marital status, genotype and limited social support were significantly associated with comorbidity. Although the prevalence of comorbidity was relatively low, the presence of overlapping cardiometabolic conditions during pregnancy highlights the need for strengthened routine screening for blood glucose and blood pressure and integration of non-communicable disease management into antenatal care services at the primary healthcare level.
Abstract: The coexistence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension during pregnancy represents an important public health concern in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. This study determined the prevalence and factors associated with comorbid diabetes and hypertension among pregnant women attending primary healthcare centres in an urban area of...
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Research Article
Understanding of Antimicrobial Resistance and Antibiotic Stewardship Among Community Members in the Uganda Luwero District
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
105-117
Received:
27 February 2026
Accepted:
11 March 2026
Published:
26 March 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20261102.12
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Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance is a growing issue worldwide, directly contributing to more than one million deaths each year. Developing countries like Uganda rely on the continued effectiveness of antimicrobials to combat endemic diseases. This study investigated antimicrobial resistance awareness and antibiotic use behaviors among members of the Luwero district in Uganda. An electronic survey was administered to community members in Uganda's Luwero district, the survey tool included questions reflecting aspects of antibiotic stewardship such as how often antibiotics should be taken, dose completion, and rational use. It was found that very few respondents correctly defined antimicrobial resistance and many stopped taking antibiotics when they felt better. There was no significant relationship found between level of education and the variables of interest. Knowledge gaps regarding appropriate use and frequency of dosing of antibiotics were observed among respondents. Education was found to not be associated with accurate knowledge of antibiotic use, reflective of the lack of educational initiatives regarding AMR in Uganda. Further investigation is necessary to more fully illuminate antibiotic use and stewardship in this region.
Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance is a growing issue worldwide, directly contributing to more than one million deaths each year. Developing countries like Uganda rely on the continued effectiveness of antimicrobials to combat endemic diseases. This study investigated antimicrobial resistance awareness and antibiotic use behaviors among members of the Luwero...
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Research Article
Comparative Assessment of Health Information Management Efficiency Before and After Electronic Health Records Adoption in Tertiary Healthcare Facilities in Kogi State, Nigeria
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
118-127
Received:
23 February 2026
Accepted:
17 March 2026
Published:
27 March 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20261102.13
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Abstract: The adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) has been promoted globally as a strategy for improving healthcare delivery, yet challenges persist in Nigeria’s public health facilities, particularly during the transition from paper-based to electronic systems. This study therefore investigated how the adoption of EHRs influences Health Information Management (HIM) practices in Tertiary Healthcare Facilities in Kogi State, Nigeria. The study was a facility-based cross-sectional study conducted among 327 healthcare workers across major professional categories. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select participants to ensure adequate precision across staff groups. Differences in Health Information Management practices before and after EHR adoption were examined using paired sample t-test and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test. The results show that 30.31% of respondents were aged between 25-29 years old, 67.70% were female, 22.12% held an MSc degree, and 23.01% had more than 20 years of work experience. The mean overall HIM performance score improved from 3.55 ± 0.76 before EHR implementation to 4.54 ± 0.50 after implementation, with a mean difference of –0.99 (CI: –1.09 to –0.90). The mean overall accessibility score before implementation was 2.17±0.86, increasing to 2.83±0.98 after implementation. Patient records were more easily accessible to authorized personnel after EHR adoption, with mean scores increasing from 1.813 ± 1.169 before adoption to 2.801 ± 1.449 after adoption. The difference was statistically significant (Z = -8.2, p < 0.001) and the effect size was large (r = 0.45). Timely retrieval of historical patient data for clinical decision-making improved, with mean scores rising from 2.147 ± 1.259 to 3.119 ± 1.330. The study demonstrates that although healthcare professionals recognise substantial improvements in data management, accessibility, and service delivery following EHR adoption, structural and capacity-related constraints continue to hinder optimal utilisation. Strengthening digital infrastructure, expanding ICT training, and ensuring sustained technical support are essential for maximising EHR benefits and advancing digital health implementation in Nigeria.
Abstract: The adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) has been promoted globally as a strategy for improving healthcare delivery, yet challenges persist in Nigeria’s public health facilities, particularly during the transition from paper-based to electronic systems. This study therefore investigated how the adoption of EHRs influences Health Information...
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Research Article
The Reintegration of Children from Residential Care Institutions: Reflections on SOS Children’s Villages, Bindura, Zimbabwe
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
128-136
Received:
8 March 2026
Accepted:
17 March 2026
Published:
27 March 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20261102.14
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Abstract: This study examined the lived experiences of young people orphaned due to parental death and chronic illness, with particular attention to the challenges they face in transitioning into adulthood. The research adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews to collect in-depth data from 25 participants aged between 18 and 24 years. These participants were selected to capture diverse perspectives on the socio-economic and psychological realities of orphanhood. Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring patterns, key issues, and underlying meanings in the data. Findings reveal that orphaned youth encounter multiple and interconnected challenges that significantly affect their well-being and life trajectories. Economic hardship emerged as a dominant theme, with many participants struggling to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and education due to the absence of parental financial support. This often forced them into premature adult roles, including caregiving and income generation, which disrupted their educational and personal development. Psychological distress was also prevalent among participants, manifesting in forms such as grief, anxiety, loneliness, and unresolved trauma associated with the loss of parents. Many reported a lack of emotional support systems, which further exacerbated their vulnerability. Social isolation and stigma were additional concerns, as some participants experienced marginalization within their communities. Despite these challenges, the study also highlights resilience among orphaned youth. Some participants demonstrated adaptive coping strategies, including seeking support from extended family members, peers, and community-based organizations. However, such support systems were often inconsistent and insufficient. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions that address both the economic and psychosocial needs of orphaned young people. It recommends the strengthening of social protection systems, improved access to education and mental health services, and the development of community-based support networks. By understanding the complex realities faced by orphaned youth, policymakers and practitioners can design more effective programs to facilitate their successful transition into adulthood.
Abstract: This study examined the lived experiences of young people orphaned due to parental death and chronic illness, with particular attention to the challenges they face in transitioning into adulthood. The research adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews to collect in-depth data from 25 participants aged between 18 and 24 yea...
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