Abstract:

Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of morbidities and mortalities that result from noncommunicable diseases globally. It is therefore imperative to understand the determinants of tobacco use initiation among children at different ages in order to come up with the most effective prevention strategies. This study examined the relationship between age (early, middle and late adolescence) at smoking initiation and parental smoking and other covariates. A total analytic sample of 1,301 participants between ages 11 and 17 from the cross-sectional Gambian Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) of 2017 were included in this study. We conducted descriptive analyses for each potential predictor variable by each of the categories of the outcome variable (early, middle and late adolescence smoking initiation). Since the outcome variable is not binary, we conducted multinomial logistic regression to identify the factors associated with initiation. While parents’ smoking was not significantly associated with any age cohort at smoking initiation, close friends’ smoking was strongly associated with smoking initiation at all the 3 stages of adolescence - 0.84 (95%CI: 0.28-1.39); 0.77 (95%CI: 0.05-1.49); and 1.69 (95%CI: 1.69-2.71) at early, middle and late adolescence, respectively). While other people smoking at home was only associated with smoking initiation at early adolescence (0.79 [95%CI: 0.30-1.29]), perceived harm from smoking was statistically associated with smoking initiation at only middle and late adolescence (0.64 [95%CI: 0.17-1.12] and 1.01 [95%CI:0.33-1.68], respectively). Thus, it is of paramount importance that programs and policies targeting the prevention of smoking initiation among adolescents are tailored to what works best for each of the 3 age categories (early, middle and late adolescence).

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Abstract:

Nigeria’s dependence on imported vaccines has exposed significant vulnerabilities, especially during global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. With a population exceeding 200 million, local vaccine manufacturing is increasingly recognized as a strategic imperative. Regional initiatives, including GAVI’s African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA) and Africa CDC’s 2040 target of 60% self-reliance, highlights the urgency for national investment. This study assesses the economic viability of establishing a vaccine production facility in Nigeria through a 10-year Return on Investment (ROI) simulation using semantic system dynamics for the analysis. A mixed-methods approach was applied. Quantitative data from structured stakeholder questionnaires were analyzed alongside Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), Input-Output Multiplier Analysis, and Scenario-Based Sensitivity (SBS) modeling. Regression analysis was used to explore the relationship between vaccine manufacturing and public health outcomes, specifically Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) and Death-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs). Findings show that a $1 billion investment would break even by Year 6 and generate a 250% ROI by Year 10. Stakeholders identified major constraints in financial (mean = 23.1), technological (21.6), and infrastructural (21.8) domains. Infrastructure gaps included cold-chain systems (53.2%), quality control labs (48.6%), and GMP-compliant plants (47.7%). Technological challenges stemmed from limited technical expertise (61.3%) and high maintenance costs (18.9%). Public-private partnerships (PPPs), WHO prequalification alignment, donor funding, and domestic procurement policies were viewed as critical enablers. Therefore, local vaccine manufacturing in Nigeria is not only financially viable but also a strategic imperative for national and regional health security. To ensure sustainability, robust evidence-based planning, targeted regulatory reforms, and innovative funding models are essential.

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Abstract:

Human Corona viruses are coronaviridae virus belongs to enveloped single stranded RNA virus. It is a group of viruses that cross species barrier and transmitted from their animal reservoirs to become responsible for human infection with wide genetic diversity. Many of Corona viruses have been responsible for infection in human, which is usually mild in healthy adult, and do not have any concern with treatment or vaccination, like other endemic viruses as infleunza virus, respiratory syncytial virus and rhinoviruses. Until outbreaks of infection with acute respiratory distress syndrome, caused by highly pathogenic strains with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS CoV). The last outbreaks was at 2019 with the novel SARS-CoV-2 infection, when 91000 people infected and 3120 people dies and by 3^rd of march 2020 and it was the start of world pandemic in Wuhan (china), with medical and scientific challenges for china and the world started with many social limitation. The SARS-CoV-2 responsible for the pandemic has 96% similarity to the bat SARS like corona virus and to cause human infection the virus has several adaptation and minor changes in its sequence to improve its fitness to infect the cells of the new host. SARS-Co-2 has high spread rate in human and for each human infected patient there will be 2-3 individuals are infected and the virus remains infectious as aerosols up to three hours and few days on the surrounding surfaces. This review highlighted the impact of coronavirus on fertility.

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[30].  Hallak, J., Caldini, E. G., Teixeira, T. A., Correa, M. C. M., Duarte‐Neto, A. N., Zambrano, F., Saldiva, P. H., 2024, Transmission electron microscopy reveals the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 in human spermatozoa associated with an ETosis‐like response. Andrology, 12(8), 1799-1807, doi:10.1111/andr.13612.

[31].  Kaur, H., Chauhan, A., Mascarenhas, M., 2024, Does SARS Cov-2 infection affect the IVF outcome–A systematic review and meta-analysis. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 292, 147-157, doi:10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.11.027.

[32].  Yang, T., Wu, L., Peng, J., Wang, C., Li, G., Zhang, J., Song, B., 2024, Effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection during ovarian stimulation on ART outcomes. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 48(2), 103422, doi:10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103422.

[33].  Tian, L., Sun, Y., Jia, M., 2025, Effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on human embryonic development and clinical outcomes: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 25(1), 251, doi:10.1186/s12884-025-07205-y.

[34].  Eckstein, V., Glaß, K., Leßmann, M. E., Schaar, J., Klimova, A., Wimberger, P., Goeckenjan, M., 2024, Assisted reproduction after SARS-CoV-2-infection: results of a single-center cohort-study. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 309(1), 305-313, doi:10.1007/s00404-023-07228-w.

[35].  Abdoli, A., Falahi, S., Kenarkoohi, A., Shams, M., Mir, H., Jahromi, M. A. M., 2020, The COVID-19 pandemic, psychological stress during pregnancy, and risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring: a neglected consequence. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, 41(3), 247-248, doi:10.1080/0167482X.2020.1761321.

[36].  Falahi, S., Abdoli, A., Kenarkoohi, A., 2023. Maternal COVID-19 infection and the fetus: Immunological and neurological perspectives. New Microbes and New Infections, 53, 101135. doi:10.1016/j.nmni.2023.101135.

[37].  Abdollahpour, S., Badiee Aval, S., Khadivzadeh, T., 2021, Do not neglect the COVID-19 transmission through sexual intercourse. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 47(7), 731-737, doi:10.1080/0092623X.2021.1938765.

[38].  Cannarella, R., Marino, M., Crafa, A., Bagnara, V., La Vignera, S., Condorelli, R. A., Calogero, A. E., 2024, Impact of COVID-19 on testicular function: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Endocrine, 85(1), 44-66, doi:10.1007/s12020-024-03705-7.

[39].  Rodrigues, C., Baía, I., Domingues, R., Barros, H., 2020, Pregnancy and breastfeeding during COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review of published pregnancy cases. Frontiers in public health, 8, 558144, doi:10.3389/fpubh.2020.558144.

[40].  Ciapponi, A., Bardach, A., Comandé, D., Berrueta, M., Argento, F. J., Rodriguez Cairoli, F., Buekens, P., 2021, COVID-19 and pregnancy: an umbrella review of clinical presentation, vertical transmission, and maternal and perinatal outcomes. PloS one, 16(6), e0253974, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0253974.

[41].  Singh, H. O., Jakhar, K., Nema, V., Krishnaraj, A., Choudhari, R., 2021, Effect of miRNAs, proinflammatory cytokines and ACE2 in COVID-19 pathophysiology. Coronaviruses, 2(9), 7-14, doi:10.2174/2666796702666210303114330.

[42].  Zhu, S., Luan, C., Zhang, S., Wang, X., Long, F., Zhang, Q., Yan, J., 2024, Effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccine on ovarian reserve: a systematic review. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 292, 63-70, doi:10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.10.029.

[43].  Ciapponi, A., Berrueta, M., Parker, E. P., Bardach, A., Mazzoni, A., Anderson, S. A., Buekens, P. M., 2023, Safety of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Vaccine, 41(25), 3688-3700, doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.03.038.

Abstract:

Capillary hemangiomas of the tongue are rare vascular tumors that may cause pain, bleeding, chewing difficulties, difficulties in speaking and occasionally breathing difficulties. While hemangiomas can be seen within weeks to months since birth, most cases are seen in early childhood, and uncommonly in adulthood. We here report a case or capillary hemangioma in the dorsum of tongue in an adult. Initial clinical diagnosis considered were hemangioma, granular cell myoblastoma, pyogenic granuloma, and kaposi sarcoma. After the tumor was excised and biopsied, it was confirmed to be Lobular Capillary Hemangioma.

References:

[1].   Kolarkodi, S. H., et al., 2022, Non-Surgical Management of Lingual Hemangioma by Combined Sclerotherapy and Cryotherapy. Journal of College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, 32:1080-1082, 10.29271/jcpsp.2022.08.1080, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35932140/

[2].   Susan, S., et al., 2021, Unusual presentation of oral hemangioma in tongue and the potential use of propolis as an adjunctive treatment. Clinical Case Reports, 22:05243, 10.1002/ccr3.5243, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34987814/

[3].   Rachappa, M. M., et al., 2010, Capillary hemangioma or pyogenic granuloma: A diagnostic dilemma. Contemporary Clinical Dentistry, 1:119-22, 10.4103/0976-237X.68593, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22114397/.

[4].   Vinay, K., et al., 2020, Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, Elsevier, Amsterdam, Netherlands, https://shop.elsevier.com/books/robbins-and-cotran-pathologic-basis-of-disease/kumar/978-0-323-53113-9.

[5].   Galletti, B., et al., 2021, Radiofrequency VS Cold Surgery to Treat Oral Papillomatous Lesions. Iranian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology, 33:87-91, 10.22038/ijorl.2020.38177.2256, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33912483/.

[6].   Azma, E., et al., 2018, Laser Treatment of Oral and Maxillofacial Hemangioma. Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences, 9:228-232, 10.15171/jlms.2018.41, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6499563/.

[7].   Parvathidevi, M. K., et al., 2013, Management of haemangioma with sclerosing agent: a case report. BMJ Case Report, 15:2013200660, 10.1136/bcr-2013-200660, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24130207/.

Abstract:

Vitamin B12 is essential for bodily functions that are vital for human growth and well-being, especially during pregnancy when it plays a key role in the development of the fetus. Exploring the role of vitamin B12 in the early stages of pregnancy is the main focus of this review article. The focus is on how it impacts neural tube formation in the early stages of pregnancy. A comprehensive analysis of research was undertaken to investigate the impact of maternal vitamin B12 levels on fetal growth and pregnancy outcomes. Several studies have found a link between vitamin B12 levels and negative effects on the health of mothers and infants when pregnant. There could be factors contributing to this situation possibly linked to how vitamin B12 aids, in the production of blood cells that transport oxygen and essential nutrients to support the growth of the babies circulatory system early on in development Additionally vitamin B12 is involved in the growth of the system creation of myelin and closure of the neural tube. Insufficient levels of vitamin B12 have been associated with problems. Decreased cognitive abilities in the children of mothers according to research findings The study underscores the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin B12 levels for women who are pregnant or considering pregnancy suggesting that supplements could play a crucial role, in preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes and supporting the healthy growth of the babies brain. Insufficient levels of vitamin B12 may impact the development of the fetus in the womb. Increase the risk of neural tube defects or miscarriage, in pregnant women.

References:

[1].   Balabanova, L., Averianova, L., Marchenok, M., Son, O., Tekutyeva, L., 2021, Microbial and genetic resources for cobalamin (vitamin B12) biosynthesis: From ecosystems to industrial biotechnology. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(9), 4522, doi:10.3390/ijms22094522.

[2].   Temova Rakuša, Ž., Roškar, R., Hickey, N., Geremia, S., 2022, Vitamin B12 in foods, food supplements, and medicines—a review of its role and properties with a focus on its stability. Molecules, 28(1), 240, doi:10.3390/molecules28010240.

[3].   Furness, D., Fenech, M., Dekker, G., Khong, T. Y., Roberts, C., Hague, W., 2013, Folate, vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and homocysteine: impact on pregnancy outcome. Maternal child nutrition, 9(2), 155-166, doi:10.1111/j.1740-8709.2011.00364.x.

[4].   Mousa, A., Naqash, A., Lim, S., 2019, Macronutrient and micronutrient intake during pregnancy: an overview of recent evidence. Nutrients, 11(2), 443, doi:10.3390/nu11020443.

[5].   Stough, C., Scholey, A., Lloyd, J., Spong, J., Myers, S., Downey, L. A., 2011, The effect of 90 day administration of a high dose vitamin B‐complex on work stress. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, 26(7), 470-476, doi:10.1002/hup.1229.

[6].   Cerf, M. E., 2021, Healthy lifestyles and noncommunicable diseases: nutrition, the life‐course, and health promotion. Lifestyle Medicine, 2(2), e31, doi:10.1002/lim2.31.

[7].   Williamson, C. S., 2006, Nutrition in pregnancy. Nutrition bulletin, 31(1), 28-59, doi:10.1111/j.1467-3010.2006.00541.x.

[8].   Rizzo, G., Laganà, A. S., Rapisarda, A. M. C., La Ferrera, G. M. G., Buscema, M., Rossetti, P., Vitale, S. G., 2016, Vitamin B12 among vegetarians: status, assessment and supplementation. Nutrients, 8(12), 767, doi:10.3390/nu8120767.

[9].   Bennett, M., 2001, Vitamin B12 deficiency, infertility and recurrent fetal loss. The Journal of reproductive medicine, 46(3), 209-212, doi:10.1136/archdischild-2013-303966.043.

[10].  Scholing, J. M., Olthof, M. R., Jonker, F. A., Vrijkotte, T. G., 2018, Association between pre-pregnancy weight status and maternal micronutrient status in early pregnancy. Public health nutrition, 21(11), 2046-2055, doi:10.1017/s1368980018000459.

[11].  Úbeda, N., Reyes, L., González-Medina, A., Alonso-Aperte, E., Varela-Moreiras, G., 2011, Physiologic changes in homocysteine metabolism in pregnancy: a longitudinal study in Spain. Nutrition, 27(9), 925-930, doi:10.1016/j.nut.2010.10.017.

[12].  Koebnick, C., 2002, Heins uA, Dagnelie pc, Wickramasinghe, S. N., Ratnayaka, I. D., Hothorn, T., pfahlberg, A. B., Hoffmann, I., Lindemans, J., Leitmann, C., Longitudinal conecentration of vit B12 and vit B12 binding proteins during uncomplicated pregnancy. Clinical Chemistry, 928-33, doi:10.1093/clinchem/48.6.928.

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[14].  Ermens, A. A. M., Vlasveld, L. T., Lindemans, J., 2003, Significance of elevated cobalamin (vitamin B12) levels in blood. Clinical biochemistry, 36(8), 585-590, doi:10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2003.08.004.

[15].  Dawson, E. B., Evans, D. R., Harris, W. A., Van Hook, J. W., 1999, Amniotic fluid B12, calcium, and lead levels associated with neural tube defects. American journal of perinatology, 16(07), 373-378, doi:10.1055/s-2007-993887.

[16].  Afman, L. A., Van Der Put, N. M. J., Thomas, C. M. G., Trijbels, J. M. F., Blom, H., 2001., Reduced vitamin B12 binding by transcobalamin II increases the risk of neural tube defects. Qjm, 94(3), 159-166, doi:10.1093/qjmed/94.3.159.

[17].  Molloy, A. M., Mills, J. L., McPartlin, J., Kirke, P. N., Scott, J. M., Daly, S., 2002, Maternal and fetal plasma homocysteine concentrations at birth: the influence of folate, vitamin B12, and the 5, 10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase 677C→ T variant. American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 186(3), 499-503, doi:10.1067/mob.2002.121105.

[18].  Monsen, A. L. B., Refsum, H., Markestad, T., Ueland, P. M., 2003, Cobalamin status and its biochemical markers methylmalonic acid and homocysteine in different age groups from 4 days to 19 years. Clinical chemistry, 49(12), 2067-2075, doi:10.1373/clinchem.2003.019869.

[19].  Ulak, M., Chandyo, R. K., Thorne-Lyman, A. L., Henjum, S., Ueland, P. M., Midttun, Ø., Strand, T. A., 2016, Vitamin status among breastfed infants in Bhaktapur, Nepal. Nutrients, 8(3), 149, doi:10.3390/nu8030149.

[20].  Sebastiani, G., Herranz Barbero, A., Borrás-Novell, C., Alsina Casanova, M., Aldecoa-Bilbao, V., Andreu-Fernández, V., García-Algar, O., 2019, The effects of vegetarian and vegan diet during pregnancy on the health of mothers and offspring. Nutrients, 11(3), 557, doi:10.3390/nu11030557.

[21].  Geary, D. C., Hoard, M. K., Nugent, L., Bailey, D. H., 2012, Mathematical cognition deficits in children with learning disabilities and persistent low achievement: a five-year prospective study. Journal of educational psychology, 104(1), 206, doi:10.1037/a0025398.

[22].  Bukhari, S. A., Rajoka, M. I., Ibrahim, Z., Jalal, F., Rana, S. M., Nagra, S. A., 2011, Oxidative stress elevated DNA damage and homocysteine level in normal pregnant women in a segment of Pakistani population. Molecular biology reports, 38, 2703-2710, doi:10.1007/s11033-010-0413-7.

[23].  Murphy, M. M., Scott, J. M., McPartlin, J. M., Fernandez-Ballart, J. D., 2002, The pregnancy-related decrease in fasting plasma homocysteine is not explained by folic acid supplementation, hemodilution, or a decrease in albumin in a longitudinal study. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 76(3), 614-619, doi:10.1093/ajcn/76.3.614.

[24].  Green, R., Allen, L. H., Bjørke-Monsen, A. L., Brito, A., Guéant, J. L., Miller, J. W., Yajnik, C., 2017, Vitamin B12 deficiency. Nature reviews Disease primers, 3(1), 1-20, doi:10.1038/nrdp.2017.40.

[25].  Guelinckx, I., Devlieger, R., Vansant, G., 2009, Reproductive outcome after bariatric surgery: a critical review. Human reproduction update, 15(2), 189-201, doi:10.1093/humupd/dmn057.

[26].  Reznikoff-Etiévant, M. F., Zittoun, J., Vaylet, C., Pernet, P., Milliez, J., 2002, Low vitamin B12 level as a risk factor for very early recurrent abortion. European Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 104(2), 156-159, doi:10.1016/S0301-2115(02)00100-8.

[27].  Murphy, M. M., Scott, J. M., Arija, V., Molloy, A. M., Fernandez-Ballart, J. D., 2004, Maternal homocysteine before conception and throughout pregnancy predicts fetal homocysteine and birth weight. Clinical Chemistry, 50(8), 1406-1412, doi:10.1373/clinchem.2004.032904.

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[30].  Kreusler, P., Vogel, M., Willenberg, A., Baber, R., Dietz, Y., Körner, A., Kiess, W., 2021, Folate and cobalamin serum levels in healthy children and adolescents and their association with age, sex, BMI and socioeconomic status. Nutrients, 13(2), 546, doi:10.3390/nu13020546.

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[33].  Shukla, A. K., Srivastava, S., Verma, G., 2019, Effect of maternal anemia on the status of iron stores in infants: a cohort study. Journal of Family and Community Medicine, 26(2), 118-122, doi:10.4103/jfcm.JFCM_115_18.

[34].  Paparo, L., Di Costanzo, M., Di Scala, C., Cosenza, L., Leone, L., Nocerino, R., Berni Canani, R., 2014, The influence of early life nutrition on epigenetic regulatory mechanisms of the immune system. Nutrients, 6(11), 4706-4719, doi:10.3390/nu6114706.

[35].  Lazdam, M., de la Horra, A., Diesch, J., Kenworthy, Y., Davis, E., Lewandowski, A. J., Leeson, P., 2012, Unique blood pressure characteristics in mother and offspring after early onset preeclampsia. Hypertension, 60(5), 1338-1345, doi:10.1161/hypertensionaha.112.198366.

[36].  D’Souza, S. W., Solanky, N., Guarino, J., Moat, S., Sibley, C. P., Taggart, M., Glazier, J. D., 2017, Human placental arterial distensibility, birth weight, and body size are positively related to fetal homocysteine concentration. Reproductive Sciences, 24(7), 1070-1078, doi:10.1177/1933719116678694.

[37].  Richard, K., Holland, O., Landers, K., Vanderlelie, J. J., Hofstee, P., Cuffe, J. S., Perkins, A. V., 2017, Effects of maternal micronutrient supplementation on placental function. Placenta, 54, 38-44, doi:10.1016/j.placenta.2016.12.022.

[38].  Škovierová, H., Vidomanová, E., Mahmood, S., Sopková, J., Drgová, A., Červeňová, T., Lehotský, J., 2016, The molecular and cellular effect of homocysteine metabolism imbalance on human health. International journal of molecular sciences, 17(10), 1733, doi:10.3390/ijms17101733.

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[40].  Maqbool, M. A., Aslam, M., Akbar, W., Iqbal, Z., 2017, Biological importance of vitamins for human health: A review. Journal of Agriculture and Basic Sciences, 2(3), 50-58, doi:10.4172/2376-1318.1000153.

Abstract:

Malaria in pregnancy (MiP) is one among the serious public health concern in Nigeria, being a malaria endemic region. It accounts for significant number of mortality and morbidity in pregnant women. World Health Organization has recommended at least a dose of intermittent preventive treatment of Malaria in pregnancy (IPTp) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine [SP] for its control, but there are challenges to continuity of treatment especially in Northern Nigeria where a significant proportion who uptake the treatment does not complete the recommended dose. The aim of this study was to identify the barriers to completing the uptake of SP for IPTp by pregnant women attending ANC services in Birnin-Kebbi, Kebbi State, North-West Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional study design and PHC Makera was purposively selected due to high ANC clients. From the facility ANC register, 109 pregnant women attending ANC and who defaulted in SP treatment were purposively selected and formed the study participants. Data was obtained using a semi-structured questionnaire. Findings from the study identified 4 levels of barriers to completing the uptake of SP for IPTp by pregnant women attending ANC services in the facility. The study found that individual level barriers accounted for most (71.5%) while the system level barrier accounted for the least (2%). The study concluded that the greatest barriers to completing the uptake of SP for IPTp by pregnant women attending ANC were individual level and economic barriers. The study therefore recommends enlightenment on MiP and Government to set policies that would boost the economic status of women and make them take health decisions that affects them without delays.

References:

[1]. Olaleye, A., Walker, O., 2020, Impact of health systems on the implementation of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in pregnancy in Sub-Saharan Africa: a narrative synthesis. Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 5:134. Doi: 10.3390/tropicalmed5030134

[2]. Hill, J., Hoyt, J., Van, Eijk, A., D’Mello-Guyett, L et al., 2013, Factors affecting the delivery, access, and use of interventions to prevent malaria in pregnancy in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Med. 10: e1001488. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1001488

[3]. Federal Ministry of Health, 2005, National Antimalarial Treatment Policy. National Malaria and Vector Control Division.Abuja: MoH: https://extranet.who.int/countryplanningcycles/sites/default/files/countrydocs/Nigeria_malaria_strategy_plan_2009-2013.pdf

[4]. Federal Ministry of Health: A road map for impact on malaria in Nigeria: A 5-year strategic plan: 2006–2010. http://archiverbm.rollbackmalaria.org/country action/nsp/nigeria.pdf

[5]. Federal Ministry of Health. Progress and impact series: focus on Nigeria. 2012. http://www.rollbackmalaria.org/microsites/ProgressImpactSeries/docs/ report11-en.pdf

[6]. Federal Ministry of Health 2005, National guidelines and strategies for malaria prevention and control during pregnancy. Abuja: Malaria Control Programme, FMOH; 2005.

[7]. World Health Organization. Global Malarial Programme. 2012, Updated WHO policy recommendation for the Intermittent Preventive Treatment of malaria in pregnancy using Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP). http://www.who.int/malaria/iptp_sp_updated_policy_recommendation_en_102012.pdf?ua=1

[8]. National Population Commission [Nigeria] and ICF Macro. 2024, Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey 2024. Abuja, Nigeria: National Population Commission and ICF Macro.

[9]. Onwujekwe, O. C., Soremekun, R. O., Uzochukwu, B., Shu, E., Onwujekwe, O., 2012, Patterns of case management and chemoprevention for malaria-in pregnancy by public and private sector health providers in Enugu state. Nigeria BMC Res Notes. 5 Suppl 211:1756–0500.

[10]. Akinleye, S. O., Falade, C. O., Ajayi, I.O., 2009, Knowledge and utilization of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in primary health care centers in rural southwest, Nigeria: a cross-sectional study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. Suppl 28:1471–2393.

[11]. Tobin-West, C. I., Asuquo. E. O., 2013, Utilization of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria by pregnant women in rivers state. Nigeria Int J Prev Med. 4 Suppl 1:63–71.

[12]. Akaba, G. O., Otubu, J.A., Agida, E.T., Onafowokan. O., 2013, Knowledge and utilization of malaria preventive measures among pregnant women at a tertiary hospital in Nigeria’s federal capital territory. Niger J Clin Pract;16 Suppl 2:201–6.

[13]. Onoka, C. A., Onwujekwe, O. E., Hanson, K., Uzochukwu, B.S., 2012, Sub-optimal delivery of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in pregnancy in Nigeria: influence of provider factors. Malar J. 11 Suppl 317:1475–2875.

[14]. Iliyasu, Z., Gajida, A. U., Galadanci, H. S., Abubakar, I.S., Baba, A. S., et al., 2012, Adherence to intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in pregnancy in urban Kano, northern Nigeria. Pathog Glob Health. 106 Suppl 6:323–9.

[15]. Diala, C., Pennas, T., Marin, C., Belay, K., 2013, Perceptions of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy (IPTp) and barriers to adherence in Nasarawa and Cross River States in Nigeria. Malaria J. 12 Suppl 1:342.

[16]. Esu. E., Effa, E., Udoh, E., Oduwole, O., Odey, F., et al., 2013, Utilization of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in health facilities of Cross River State, Nigeria. Res Rep Trop Med. 4:29–35

[17]. Hill, J., Hoyt, J., Van, Eijk, A. M., D’Mello-Guyett L., Ter, Kuile, F. O., et al., 2013, Factors affecting the delivery, access, and use of interventions to prevent malaria in pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Med.;10 Suppl 7:23.

[18]. Arulogun, O., Okereke C., 2012, Knowledge and practices of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy among health workers in a southwest local government area of Nigeria. J Med Med Sci. 2012; 3:415–22. Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences Vol. 3(6) pp. 415-422,

[19]. National Population Commission [Nigeria]; 2010, Malaria Indicator Survey. Abuja, Nigeria. Maryland, USA: ICF International.

[20]. Akinleye, S. O., Ajayi, I. O., 2011, Knowledge of malaria and preventive measures among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in a rural local government area in Southwestern Nigeria. World Health Popul.;12 Suppl 3:13–22.

[21]. Amoran, O. E., Ariba, A. A., Iyaniwura, C. A., 2012, Determinants of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria during pregnancy (IPTp): utilization in a rural town in Western Nigeria. Reprod Health; 9:12.

Abstract:

Outbound medical tourism is becoming common in Nigeria as patients are frequently sent to other countries for specialized care. The frequency and pattern of Outbound medical tourism help to direct the investments in medical tourism. This study sought to assess the frequency and pattern of outbound medical tourism in government-owned Hospitals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among 160 medical doctors who had made referrals for medical tourism in other countries. A multi-stage sampling technique was used, and data was collected using an Interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. In the last 12 months, 227(36.15%) respondents had not done any referral, In the last 6 months, 381 (60.67%) had not done any referral outside the country, 215 (34.24%) had referred one (1) patient in the last 6 months 32 (5.1%) had done two (2) referrals. Commonest destinations included India 268 (42.68%), USA 98 (15.61%), UAE 71 (11.31%), UK 68 (10.83%), Saudi Arabia 42 (6.69%), Germany 27 (4.3%), Israel 18 (2.87%), Egypt 12 (1.91%), Canada 10 (1.59%), Singapore 8 (1.27%).  Sixty-six percent of the clients selected their destination themselves, while 211 (33.60%) were selected by the doctors. The Top five referrals done by doctors in the last 12 months include Childbirth 53 (13.22%), Transplantation surgery 112 (27.93%), Ophthalmological surgery 44 (10.97%), Checkup 42 (10.47%), and Diagnostics 17 (4.24%). Improvements in local healthcare services will reduce outbound bound medical tourism and put Nigeria in a position to gain from inbound medical tourism.

References:

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