Abstract:

Work related musculoskeletal disorders are conditions that health care providers are themselves highly prone to from their daily activities of handling patient care. This study was conducted among primary healthcare workers in Minna, Niger State to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) resulting from performing occupational duties in PHC centers. The objective of this study was to investigate the proportion of healthcare workers affected by work-related musculoskeletal disorders and the most common disorder affecting this category of people. The NMQ was used to gather information from respondents. A total of 334 workers of the PHC centers were selected through purposive sampling which comprised of clinicians with the exception of administrative and other support staff. After analysis of data lower back pain showed the highest prevalence (41%) followed by shoulder pain (18%) and neck (14%). The majority of PHC workers in Minna metropolis are affected with low back pain. It is the most common WRMSD among clinicians. This is also in alignment with the global menace of low back pain as one of the most common reasons for individual work absenteeism. High-quality experimental studies, such as randomized controlled trials (RCTs), are needed to investigate specific etiological factors responsible for these disorders and objective means to quantify the level of discomfort from these disorders.

Keywords: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, Low back pain, prevalence, Healthcare worker, clinicians, primary health care centers, Minna metropolis, Niger State.

References:

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Abstract:

This paper is an assessment of the impact of Caregivers complementary feeding Knowledge on undernutrition among children 6-36 Months in Borno state. Large-scale renewables raise new challenges and provide new opportunities across Health systems. The paper considers the barriers faced by health workers and caregivers in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council in providing nutritional services to infants. We review the current state of knowledge in relation to nutrition. This paper then explores key issues in health and nutrition system structure, the main challenges to the uptake of renewables, and the various existing fiscal and policy approaches to encouraging health services. We also highlight possible ways of moving forward to ensure more widespread health management systems.

Keywords: Caregivers, Feed Knowledge. Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Undernutrition.

References:

[1] WHO/UNICEF, 2003. Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding. Geneva: WHO/UNICEF.

[2] Fewtrell M., Bronsky J., Campoy C., Domellöf M., Embleton N., Fidler Mis N., Hojsak I., Hulst J.M., Indrio F., Lapillonne A., et al. Complementary feeding: A position paper by the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) Committee on nutrition. J. Pediatr. Gastroenterol. Nutr. 2017; 64:119–132. doi: 10.1097/MPG.0000000000001454. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28027215/, and https://journals.lww.com/jpgn/fulltext/2017/01000/complementary_feeding__a_position_paper_by_the.21.aspx.

[3] Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition Feeding in the First Year of Life. [(accessed on 23 April 2020)];2018 Available online: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/feeding-in-the-first-year-of-life-sacn-report.

[4] United States Department of Agriculture Timing of Introduction of Complementary Foods and Beverage and Developmental Milestones: A Systematic Review. [(accessed on 23 April 2020)]; Available online: https://nesr.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2019-04/Timing%20of%20CFB-Developmental%20Milestones-NE..._0.pdf.

[5] DiMaggio D.M., Cox A., Porto A.F. Updates in infant nutrition. Pediatr. Rev. 2017; 38:449–462. doi: 10.1542/pir.2016-0239. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28972048/, and https://publications.aap.org/pediatricsinreview/article-abstract/38/10/449/32000/Updates-in-Infant-Nutrition?redirectedFrom=fulltext.

[6] Black RE, Victoria CG, Walker SP, Bhutta ZA, Christian P, De Onis M, Ezzati M, Grantham S, Katz J, Martorell R and Uauy R; 2013. Maternal and Child Nutrition and Underweight in Low.

[7] Bakalemwa, R., 2014. Association between malnutrition and feeding practice among children aged six to twenty-four months at Mbagathi District Hospital Kenya. A dissertation submitted to the University of Nairobi.

[8] Hainkens G.T., 2008. Case management HIV infected severe malnourished children: challenges in the area with highest prevalence. The Lancet, 2008, Vol. 371, pp. 13051307.

[9] De Onis, M, Frongillo, E.A. and Blossner, M.I., 2000. Malnutrition Declining? An analysis is in Levels of Child Malnutrition Since 1980. Geneva: Word Health Organization.

[10] National Department of Health 2005: Directorate Nutrition. the integrated nutritional progaramme; nutritional satus. Johannesburg, South Africa.

[11] UNICEF, 2013. The Conceptual Framework on Maternal and Child Nutrition.

[12] Bégin F, Aguayo VM (2017) First foods: Why improving young children's diets matter. Maternal and child nutrition, 13(S2).

[13] Frankenberg E, Buttenheim A, Sikoki B, Suriastini W, (2009) Do women increase their use of reproductive health care when it becomes more available? Evidence from Indonesia. Studies in Family Planning, 40: 27-38.

[14] Bhalotra S, Karlsson M, Nilsson T, (2017) Infant health and longevity: Evidence from a historical intervention in Sweden. JEEA 15: 1101-1157.

[15] Lazuka V (2017) The lasting health and income effects of public health formation in Sweden (No. 153). Department of Economic History, Lund University.

[16] Hjort J, Sølvsten M, Wüst M (2017) Universal investment in infants and long-run health: Evidence from Denmark's 1937 home visiting program. American Economic Journal: Applied Economics 9: 78-104.

[17] Jama NA, Wilford A, Masango Z, Haskins L, Coutsoudis A, et al. (2017) Enablers and barriers to success among mothers planning to exclusively breastfeed for six months: a qualitative prospective cohort study in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Int Breastfeed J 1:12-43.

[18] Samuel FO, Olaolorun FM, Adeniyi JD (2016) A training intervention on child feeding among primary healthcare workers in Ibadan Municipality. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 8:81-86.

[19] Saleem AF, Mahmud S, Baig-Ansari N, Zaidi AK (2014). Impact of maternal education about complementary feeding on their infants' nutritional outcomes in low-and middle-income households: a community-based randomized interventional study in Karachi, Pakistan. J Health Popul Nutr 32: 623.

[20] Inayati DA, Scherbaum V, Purwestri RC, Wirawan NN, Suryantan J, et al. (2012) Improved nutrition knowledge and practice through intensive nutrition education: a study among caregivers of mildly wasted children on Nias Island, Indonesia. Food and nutrition bulletin, 33: 117-127.

[21] Imdad A, Yakoob MY, Bhutta ZA (2011) Impact of maternal education about complementary feeding and provision of complementary foods on child growth in developing countries. BMC public health 11(S25).

[22] Christiana, N-A., 2018.Gaps in knowledge levels of Health Workers on recommended Child feeding practices and Growth Monitoring and Promotion Actions. 2018.

Ivankova, N.V., Cresswell, J. W. & Stick, S. L 2006. Using Mixed Methods Sequential Explanatory Design: From Theory to Practice. Sage Publications, 18(3) 3 - 11. Doi:10.1177/1525822X05282260.

Abstract:

In pursuance of the Global and National Goals of achieving HIV-AIDS epidemic control, it’s imperative to explore the Promotion of self-care management among people living with HIV/AIDS. Self-care management involves adhering to treatment regimens, good dietary patterns, increased physical exercise, social support, and health-seeking behaviours. The study reviewed five core pillars of self-care management: physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual, and workplace/professional. A cross-sectional descriptive, analytical study with a quantitative approach was conducted at the Antiretroviral Clinic of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital from October to December 2020. Using random sampling, 372 people living with AIDS participated in the study. Trained research assistants collected data through a structured questionnaire administered at the antiretroviral clinic. The data was analysed using SPSS version 25.0, employing frequencies, computations, percentages, averages, means, standard deviation, and correlations, with a confidence interval of 95%. The study’s findings indicate that the weighted matrix scores (WMS) for various aspects of self-care were significantly above average, suggesting that PLHIV attending the antiretroviral clinic at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital exhibit good self-care practices. However, psychological and workplace self-care requires some strengthening. The study revealed differences between self-reported appointment adherence and the calculated average appointment gap (3 visits). Associations were found between the average appointment gap and viral load among participants. The study did not establish any significant association between Total Matrixed self-care scores, adherence (appointment gap), or viral load suppression. The COVID epidemic and the nationwide ENDSARS protest in Nigeria during the study period were significant confounders and limitations.

Keywords: Antiretroviral drugs, appointment adherence, HIV/AIDS, psychological health, self-care management.

References:

[1] HIV/AIDS. (n.d.). Retrieved April 19, 2021, from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids.

[2] WHO | What do we mean by self-care? (2019). WHO.

[3] National AIDS and STI’s Control Programme Federal Ministry of Health. (2016). National Guidelines for HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care 2016 (C. and S. N.-L. E. Dr. Emeka Asadu (Head Treatment, Dr. Chukwuma Anyaike (Head Prevention NASCP), Dr. Isaac Elon (WHO Consultant for the Guidelines Review), Dr. Justus Jiboye (Senior Programme Manager CHAI), Dr. Solomon Odafe (Senior Programme Specialist CDC), Dr. Ikechukwu Amamilo, (Programme Officer CHAI), & Dr. Daniel Adeyinka (Focal Person Paediatric ART NASCP) (Eds.)). Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria. https://aidsfree.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2016_nigeria_natl_guidelines_hiv_treat_prev.pdf.

[4] Deshpande, A. K., Jadhav, S. K., & Bandivdekar, A. H. (2011). Possible transmission of HIV Infection due to human bite. AIDS Research and Therapy, 8. https://doi.org/10.1186/1742-6405-8-16.

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[7] Prevention, C. for D. C. and. (2015). HIV/AIDS. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids.

[8] Bernell, S., & Howard, S. W. (2016). Use Your Words Carefully: What Is a Chronic Disease? Frontiers in Public Health, 4. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2016.00159.

[9] Choi, B. C. K., Morrison, H., Wong, T., Wu, J., & Yan, Y. P. (2007). Bringing chronic disease epidemiology and infectious disease epidemiology back together. In Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health (Vol. 61, Issue 9, p. 832). BMJ Publishing Group. https://doi.org/10.1136/jech.2006.057752.

[10] Unwin, N., Jordan, J. A. E., Bonita, R., Ackland, M., Choi, B. C. K., & Puska, P. (2004). Rethinking the terms non-communicable disease and chronic disease [1] (multiple letters). In Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health (Vol. 58, Issue 9, p. 801). BMJ Publishing Group. https://doi.org/10.1136/jech.2003.015040.

[11] Swendeman, D., Ingram, B. L., & Rotheram-Borus, M. J. (2009). Common elements in self-management of HIV and other chronic illnesses: An integrative framework. AIDS Care - Psychological and Socio-Medical Aspects of AIDS/HIV, 21(10), 1321–1334. https://doi.org/10.1080/09540120902803158.

[12] What is Self-Care? - ISF. (n.d.). Retrieved May 22, 2020, from https://isfglobal.org/what-is-self-care/.

[13] Riegel, B., Moser, D. K., Buck, H. G., VaughanDickson, V., B.Dunbar, S., Lee, C. S., Lennie, T. A., Lindenfeld, J. A., Mitchell, J. E., Treat-Jacobson, D. J., & Webber, D. E. (2017). Self-care for the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease and stroke: A scientific statement for healthcare professionals from the American heart association. Journal of the American Heart Association, 6(9). https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.117.006997.

[14] Narasimhan, M. (n.d.). WHO Consolidated Guideline on Self-care Interventions for Health Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.

[15] Narasimhan, M., Allotey, P., & Hardon, A. (2019). Self-care interventions to advance health and wellbeing: A conceptual framework to inform normative guidance. BMJ (Online), 365. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.l688.

[16] Remme, M., Narasimhan, M., Wilson, D., Ali, M., Vijayasingham, L., Ghani, F., & Allotey, P. (2019). Self-care interventions for sexual and reproductive health and rights: Costs, benefits, and financing. BMJ (Online), 365. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.l1228.

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[18] Yamane, T. (1967). 2nd Edition.

[19] Fang-Yu Chou, R. N., & Holzemer, W. L. (2004). Linking HIV/AIDS clients’ self-care with outcomes. Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, 15(4), 58–67. https://doi.org/10.1177/1055329003255592.

[20] Chou, F. Y., Holzemer, W. L., Portillo, C. J., & Slaughter, R. (2004). Self-care strategies and sources of information for HIV/AIDS symptom management. Nursing Research, 53(5), 332–339. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006199-200409000-00008.

[21] Nokes, K. M., & Nwakeze, P. C. (2005). Assessing self-management information needs of persons living with HIV/AIDS. AIDS Patient Care and STDs, 19(9), 607–613. https://doi.org/10.1089/apc.2005.19.607.

[22] Chou, F. Y. (2004). Testing a Predictive Model of the Use of HIV/AIDS Symptom Self-Care Strategies. AIDS Patient Care and STDs, 18(2), 109–117. https://doi.org/10.1089/108729104322802533.

[23] Okoronkwo, I. (2015). Assessing Self Care Practices of People Living with AIDS attending antiretroviral clinic Kafanchan, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Journal of AIDS & Clinical Research, 06(12). https://doi.org/10.4172/2155-6113.1000528.

[24] Determining Sample Size Degree of Variability. (n.d.).Onyango, A. C., Walingo, M. K., Mbagaya, G., & Kakai, R. (2012). Assessing nutrient intake and nutrient status of HIV seropositive patients attending clinic at Chulaimbo sub-district Hospital, Kenya. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, 2012. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/306530.

Abstract:

The pro-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-6 (IL-6) –and T- T-cells play a major role in the pathogenesis and prognosis of many respiratory tract infections. Our study aimed to evaluate the role of T-Lymphocyte and IL-6 in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients post-exposure to Tobacco or Tuberculosis. A cross-sectional prospective study was carried out from February 2021 to July 2022. Participants were enrolled at the Yaoundé Jamot Hospital. The intervention group comprised patients with post-TB/AFO (Tuberculosis/Airflow obstruction) and those with COPD related to tobacco, healthy subjects served as control. Spirometry results were obtained from the medical records. T-lymphocyte and IL-6 concentrations were measured by flow cytometry and ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent Assay) respectively. 150 participants were enrolled, 90 COPD patients and 60 healthy people. The COPD patients consisted of 50 with a history of smoking (COPD/tobacco) and 40 with a history of tuberculosis (post-TB/AFO). The level of IL-6 and CD4 cells (cluster differentiation) was higher in COPD patients compared to the control group (p-value 0.0001 and 0.0006 respectively). CD8 counts were higher in COPD/tobacco than in post-TB/AFO (p = 0.0043). IL-6 and CD4 were not statistically different between COPD/tobacco and post-TB/AFO. There was an inverse and non-significant correlation between IL-6 and CD8; and a non-significant positive correlation between IL-6 and CD4 with r = -0335, p = 0.087; R = 0.355; P = 0.069 respectively. IL-6 and CD8 T cells are involved in the pathogenesis of both COPD related to tobacco and post-TB airflow obstruction, with higher counts of blood CD8 cells in COPD/tobacco.

Keywords: COPD, Inflammation, IL-6,  T-lymphocyte, Tobacco, Tuberculosis.

References:

[1] Daniel Lange, Casey E Ciavaglia, J Alberto Neder, Katherine A., Webb, and Denis E O’Donnell. Lung hyperinflation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: mechanisms, clinical implications, and treatment. 10.1586/17476348.2014.949676 2014 Informa UK Ltd ISSN 1747-6348.

[2] GOLD: Global strategy for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. 2019. http://goldcopd.org/wp-content/uploads Accessed 10 April 2020.

[3] Roche N., Huchon G. Epidemiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Rev Prat., 2004, 54, 1408-1413.

[4] Pefura-Yone EW, Kengne AP, Tagne-Kamdem PE, Afane-Ze E. Clinical significance of low forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of vital capacity following treated pulmonary tuberculosis: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2014; 4: e005361.

[5] Dina S., Shyamala G., Adam T.C., Meldrum C.A., Raja M., Adam M. G., Jeffrey L. C., Fernando J. M., Hershenson M.B., Umadevi S. Increased Cytokine Response of Rhinovirus-infected Airway Epithelial Cells in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Am J Respir Crit Care Med Vol 182. pp 332–340, 2010 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.200911-1673OC on April 15, 2010.

[6] Buist S. MD: Global Burden of COPD: risk factors, prevalence and future trends. the lancet 2007, 370:765-773.

[7] Gadgil A., Duncan S.R. Role of T-lymphocytes and pro-inflammatory mediators in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. International Journal of COPD 2008:3(4) 531–541.

[8] Guiedem Elise, Mondinde Ikomey George, Nkenfou Céline, Pefura‑Yone Eric Walter, Mesembe Martha, Chegou Njweipi Novel, Graeme Brendon Jacobs, Okomo Assoumou Marie Claire. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes in patients with anterior tuberculosis compared to tobacco-related COPD. BMC Res Notes. 2018 ; 11 :192.

[9] Grubek-Jaworska H., Paplinska M., Hermanowiecz-Salamon J., Bialek-Gosk K., Dabrowska M., Grabczak E. IL-6 and IL-13 in induced sputum, of COPD and Asthma patients: correlation with respiratory tests. Respiration, 2012, 84(2), 7-101.

[10] Celli B., Locantore N., Yates J., Tal-Singer R., Miller B., Bakke P. Inflammatory biomarkers improve clinical prediction of mortality in chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Am J respir crit care Med., 185, 72-106572.

[11] Suleyman S.H., Hakan G., Levent C.M., Aysun B.K., Ismail T. Association between cytokines in induced sputum and severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. 0954-6111. doi: 10.1016/j.rmed.2005.08.022.

[12] Hurst J.R., Perera W.R., Wilkinson T.M., Donaldson G.C., Wedzicha J.A. Systemic and upper and lower airway inflammation at exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2006; 173: 71-78

[13] Mallia P, Message SD, Contoli M, et al. Lymphocyte subsets in experimental rhinovirus infection in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Respir Med. 2014 ;108(1)78-85. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.rmed.2013.09.010.

[14] Gadgil A., Zhu X., Sciurba F., Ducan S. altered T-cell phenotypes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Proc Am Thorac Soc. 2006; 3:487–8.

[15] Mikhak Z, Farsidjani A, Luster AD. Endotoxin augmented antigen induced Th1 cell trafficking amplifies airway neutrophilic inflammation. J Immunol. 2009; 182(12): 7946-7956. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4049/jimmunol.0803522.

[16] Mustimbo E.P, Higgs BW, Brohawn P, Brohawn, Pilataxi F., Xiang G., Kuziora M., Bowler R.P., White W.I. CD4+ T-cell profiles and peripheral blood ex-vivo responses to T-cell directed stimulation delineate COPD phenotypes. J COPD F. 2(4): 268-280. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.15326/jcopdf.2.4.2015.0131.

[17] Roberts MEP, Higgs BW, Brohawn P, et al. CD4+ T-cell profiles and peripheral blood ex-vivo responses to T-cell directed stimulation delineate COPD phenotypes. J COPD F. 2(4): 268-280.

[18] Dienz O., Eaton S., Bond J., Neveu W., Moquin D., Noubade R. The induction of antibody production by IL-6 is indirectly mediated by IL-12 produced by CD4+ T cells. J Exp Med., 2009, 206, 69-78.

[19] Dina S., Shyamala G., Adam T.C., Meldrum C.A., Raja M., Adam M. G., Jeffrey L. C., Fernando J. M., Hershenson M.B., Umadevi S. Increased
Cytokine Response of Rhinovirus-infected Airway Epithelial Cells in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Am J Respir Crit Care Med Vol 182. pp 332–340, 2010 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.200911-1673OC.

[20] Aubier M., Marthan R., Berger P., Chambellan A., Chanez P., Aguilaniu B. BPCO et Inflammation : mise au point par un groupe d’experts. Les mécanismes de l’inflammation et du remodelage. 0761-8425/S. doi : 10.1016/j.rmr.2010.10.004.

[21] Perez T., Mal H., Aguilaniu B., Brillet P.Y., Chaouat A., Louis R., Muir, J.-F. et al. BPCO et inflammation : mise au point d’un groupe d’experts. Les phénotypes en lien avec l’inflammation. 2010, 10.1016/j.rmr.

Abstract:

Background: Nylon bristles are the most commonly used type of bristle in toothbrushes, but they have both advantages and disadvantages. Nylon bristles can be too hard or abrasive for some people's teeth and gums. Nylon is not biodegradable and can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Aims: In order to explore the possibility of using natural fibers this study was conducted. Materials and Methods: Twigs of neem, banyan, babool and miswak were purchased as fresh twigs, wiped clean, hammered on a hard wood base to obtain fibers of desired lengths. Physical appearance, Bend Recovery, Folding Endurance and Antibacterial adhesion against B. Subtilis were evaluated. All experiments were performed as triplicate and mean and standard deviation were reported. Results: Digital microscopy showed well defined fibers of fairly constant diameter, apparent from the superimposed scale. Results of bend recovery analysis showed that miswak fibers were flexible and recovery was good. Folding Endurance test showed miswak and banyan were having great folding endurance. Bacterial adhesion with B. Subtilis was heavy in all fibres. The antibacterial activity of four extracts showed that all groups had identifiable antimicrobial activity at 2000 µg concentrations. Conclusion: From results of the study, it can be inferred that miswak is the most suitable material to be used for fabricating bristles in its native form.

Keywords: Babool, Banyan, Bristles, Natural Fibres; Neem Miswak.

References:

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[6] Assari, A. S., Mohammed Mahrous, M., Ahmad, Y. A., Alotaibi, F., Alshammari, M., AlTurki, F., & AlShammari, T., 2022, Efficacy of different sterilization techniques for toothbrush decontamination: An ex vivo study. Cureus, 14(1), e21117.

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[15] Nur Diyana, A. F., Khalina, A., Sapuan, M. S., Lee, C. H., Aisyah, H. A., Nurazzi, M. N., & Ayu, R. S., 2022, Physical, mechanical, and thermal properties and characterization of natural fiber composites reinforced poly (lactic acid): Miswak (Salvadora persica L.) fibers. International Journal of Polymer Science, 2022, 1–20.

[16] Thandavamoorthy, R., & Palanivel, A., 2020, Testing and evaluation of tensile and impact strength of neem/banyan fiber-reinforced hybrid composite. Journal of Testing and Evaluation, 48(1), 647–655.

[17] Mrudhula, R., Dinesh Sankar Reddy, P., & Veeresh Kumar, G. B., 2023, Preparation of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) from Cajanus cajan (pigeon pea) and Acacia arabica (babul plant). In Recent trends in product design and intelligent manufacturing systems (pp. 429–438). Springer Nature Singapore.

[18] Al-Bayati, F. A., & Sulaiman, K. D., 2008, In vitro antimicrobial activity of Salvadora persica L. extracts against some isolated oral pathogens in Iraq. Turkish Journal of Biology, 32, 57–62.

[19] Sofrata, A. H., Claesson, R. L., Lingström, P. K., & Gustafsson, A. K., 2008, Strong antibacterial effect of miswak against oral microorganisms associated with periodontitis and caries. Journal of Periodontology, 79(8), 1474–1479.

[20] Almas, K., & Al-Zeid, Z., 2004, The immediate antimicrobial effect of a toothbrush and miswak on cariogenic bacteria: a clinical study. The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice, 5(1), 105–114.

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[23] Gazi, M., Saini, T., Ashri, N., & Lambourne, A., 1990, Meswak chewing stick versus conventional toothbrush as an oral hygiene aid. Clinical Preventive Dentistry, 12(4), 19–23.

[24] Al-Otaibi, M., Al-Harthy, M., Söder, B., Gustafsson, A., & Angmar-Månsson, B., 2003, Comparative effect of chewing sticks and tooth brushing on plaque removal and gingival health. Oral Health and Preventive Dentistry, 1(4), 301–307.

Abstract:

This paper provides a cross sectional analysis of the quality and quantity of complimentary feeding and nutrition among children of 6-36 months in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council. The role of health workers and parents in contextualities in driving, constraining or otherwise influencing complimentary feeding practices is explored through a review of the essential literature. Though this literature is found to have considerably expanded the scope of understanding around health and nutrition, research in the area is found to be lacking in methodological coherence and theoretical substance. Future efforts are needed to systematically bring together the array of insights, methodological approaches, and recommendations in this literature, as well as better bound, differentiate and systemize health and nutrition research in the area going forward. Two initial objectives are advanced through this paper in relation to this dual research imperative. They employed the survey research method. It revealed that knowledge of complementary feeding amongst women in emergencies are poor and government need to scale up support through local enlightenment programs that will boost good health and nutritional practices.

Keywords: Complementary Feeding, Nutrition, Quality of complimentary feeding, Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Nigeria.

References:

[1] Black RE, Victoria CG, Walker SP, Bhutta ZA, Christian P, De Onis M, Ezzati M, Grantham S, Katz J, Martorell R and Uauy R; .2013. Maternal and Child Nutrition and Underweight in Low-Income Countries.

[2] Global Nutrition Report 2008. Shining a light to spur action on nutrition. Retrieved from https://globalnutritionreport.org/reports/global-nutrition-report-2018/.

[3] Saha KK, Persson L, Rasmussen KM, Arifeen SE, Frongillo EA, et al. 2008. Appropriate infant feeding practices result in better growth of infants and young children in rural Bangladesh. Am J ClinNutr. 2008; 87: 1852-1859. Ref.: https://goo.gl/BhETH9.

[4] Pelto G.H., 2000. Improving Complementary Feeding Practices Responsive Parenting as a Primary Component Of Intervention To Prevent Malnutrition In Infancy and Early Childhood. Pediatrics. 2000; 106: 1300-1301. Ref.: https://goo.gl/rH6JHw.

[5] Müller O, Krawinkel M., 2005. Malnutrition and health in developing countries. CMAJ. 2005 173: 279-86. Ref.: https://goo.gl/SrR5Eb.

[6] Chesire EJ, Orago AS, Oteba LP, Echoka E, 2008. Determinants of under nutrition among school age children in a Nairobi peri-urban slum. East Afr Med J. 2008;85(10):471–9.

[7] UNICEF, WHO, World Bank Group. Levels and trends in child malnutrition. New York. The World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates; 2015.

[8] Munthali T, Jacobs C, Sitali L, Dambe R, Michelo C (2015). Mortality and morbidity patterns in under-five children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in Zambia: a five-year retrospective review of hospital-based records (2009-2013). Arch Public Health. 2015;73(1):146. doi:10.1186/s13690-015-0072-1.

[9] NDHS: 2013; National Population Commission (NPC) (Nigeria) and ICF International. (2014). Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey 2013. Abuja, Nigeria, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NPC and ICF International. Retrieved from https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/fr293/fr293.pdf.

[10] NDHS: 2018: National Population Commission (NPC) (Nigeria) and ICF (2019). Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey 2018. Abuja, Nigeria and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NPC and ICF. Retrieved from https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/fr359/fr359.pdf.

[11] Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2016 – 2017.

[12] Aggarwal A., Verman, S., Faridi, M & Dayachand 92008). Complementary feeding – reasons for inappropriateness in timing, quantity, and consistency. Indian Journal of Pediatrics 75 (1): 49 – 53.

[13] World Health Organisation, Children: reducing mortality. Fact sheet. [Accessed November 30, 2016] http://www.who.int.mediacentre/factshetts/fs178/en/.

[14] World Health Organization Infant and young child feeding. 2016. [Accessed March 31^st, 2016] http://who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs342/en/.

[15] WHO (2013). Essential Nutrition Actions: Mainstreaming Nutrition through the Life-Course. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/84409/9789241505550_eng.pdf?sequence=1.

[16] WHO 2003. Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/nutrition/topics/global_strategy/en/.

[17] Zere, E., and Mcintyre D. 2003. Inequities in under-five child malnutrition South Africa. International Journal for Equity in Health, 2(1), 7. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-9276-2-7.

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[19] Victora CG, de Onis M, Hallal PC, Blossner M and Shrimpton R. 2010. Worldwide timing of growth faltering: revisiting implications for interventions. Pediatrics. 2010;125(3):473-480.

[20] Moore AC, Akhter S, Aboud FE. 2006. Responsive complementary feeding in rural Bangladesh. Soc Sci Med. 2006;62(8):1917-1930.

[21] Ivankova, N.V., Cresswell, J. W. & Stick, S. L 2006. Using Mixed Methods Sequential Explanatory Design: From Theory to Practice. Sage Publications, 18(3) 3 - 11. Doi:10.1177/1525822X05282260.

Abstract:

Access to healthcare in developing countries is generally poor due to limited health facilities and shortage of healthcare workers. Recent developments in technology and telehealth promise to address challenges of access to health facilities through remote service provision. However, the level of awareness and acceptability of telehealth in HIV care among healthcare workers in Zimbabwe is not well known. The main objective of this study is to assess the level of awareness and acceptability of telehealth among healthcare workers involved in HIV care in Harare, Zimbabwe. A cross-sectional survey was employed to conveniently sample and interview 395 healthcare workers from 15 public healthcare facilities and 34 private healthcare facilities in Harare. A pretested questionnaire was employed to collect data. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to establish possible association of the independent variable and dependent variables (awareness and acceptance). All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software version 28.0.1.1. Of the 395 healthcare workers interviewed, 87% were aware of telehealth, while 85% found it acceptable. Logistic regression analysis identified educational level, and type of profession to be significantly (p < 0.05) associated with telehealth awareness. There was an association between telehealth acceptance and level of education (p < 0.05). Lack of resources was a major barrier to telehealth utilisation. The findings of this study reveal high awareness and acceptability of telehealth in HIV care among healthcare workers in Harare. The findings provide optimism for telehealth uptake and the promotion of telehealth as an important intervention in HIV care.

Keywords: Acceptability, Awareness, HIV care, Telehealth.

References:

[1] World Health Organization. (n.d.). Social determinants of health. Retrieved 3 August 2022, from https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1.

[2] Loewenson, R., & Masotya, M. (2018). Equity Watch: Assessing progress towards equity in health in Zimbabwe, 2018 Training and Research Support Centre, Regional Network for Equity in Health in East and Southern Africa (EQUINET). https://www.tarsc.org/publications/documents/Zim%20equitywatch%2009.pdf.

[3] Mangundu, M., Roets, L., & Van Rensberg, E. J. (2020). Accessibility of healthcare in rural Zimbabwe: The perspective of nurses and healthcare users. African Journal of Primary Health Care & Family Medicine, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/phcfm.v12i1.2245.

[4] Tessema, Z. T., Worku, M. G., Tesema, G. A., Alamneh, T. S., Teshale, A. B., Yeshaw, Y., Alem, A. Z., Ayalew, H. G., & Liyew, A. M. (2022). Determinants of accessing healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa: A mixed-effect analysis of recent Demographic and Health Surveys from 36 countries. BMJ Open, 12(1), e054397. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054397.

[5] Oleribe, O. E., Momoh, J., Uzochukwu, B. S., Mbofana, F., Adebiyi, A., Barbera, T., Williams, R., & Taylor Robinson, S. D. (2019). Identifying Key Challenges Facing Healthcare Systems In Africa And Potential Solutions. International Journal of General Medicine, Volume 12, 395–403. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJGM.S223882.

[6] Druetz, T. (2018). Integrated primary health care in low- and middle-income countries: A double challenge. BMC Medical Ethics, 19(S1), 48. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12910-018-0288-z.

[7] Tafuma, T. A., Mahachi, N., Dziwa, C., Moga, T., Baloyi, P., Muyambo, G., Muchedzi, A., Chimbidzikai, T., Ncube, G., Murungu, J., Nyagura, T., & Lew, K. (2018). Barriers to HIV service utilisation by people living with HIV in two provinces of Zimbabwe: Results from 2016 baseline assessment. Southern African Journal of HIV Medicine, 19(1), 721. https://doi.org/10.4102/hivmed.v19i1.721.

[8] Keesara, S., Jonas, A., & Schulman, K. (2020). Covid-19 and Health Care’s Digital Revolution. New England Journal of Medicine, 382(23), e82. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMp2005835.

[9] Health Resources and Services Administration. (2020). Glossary. https://bhw.hrsa.gov/glossary#t.

[10] Lurie, N., & Carr, B. G. (2018). The Role of Telehealth in the Medical Response to Disasters. JAMA Internal Medicine, 178(6), 745. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2018.1314.

[11] Miyawaki, A., Tabuchi, T., Ong, M. K., & Tsugawa, Y. (2021). Age and Social Disparities in the Use of Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Japan: Cross-sectional Study. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 23(7), e27982. https://doi.org/10.2196/27982.

[12] Williams, C., & Shang, D. (2023). Telehealth Usage Among Low-Income Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Retrospective Observational Study. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 25, e43604. https://doi.org/10.2196/43604.

[13] Fouad, A. A., Osman, M. A., Abdelmonaem, Y. M. M., & Karim, N. A. H. A. (2023). Awareness, knowledge, attitude, and skills of telemedicine among mental healthcare providers. Middle East Current Psychiatry, 30(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s43045-022-00272-3.

[14] Ammenwerth, E. (2019). Technology Acceptance Models in Health Informatics: TAM and UTAUT. Studies in Health Technology and Informatics, 263, 64–71. https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI190111.

[15] Venkatesh, Morris, Davis, & Davis. (2003). User Acceptance of Information Technology: Toward a Unified View. MIS Quarterly, 27(3), 425. https://doi.org/10.2307/30036540.

[16] López-Cabarcos, M. Á., Piñeiro-Chousa, J., & Quiñoá-Piñeiro, L. (2021). An approach to a country’s innovation considering cultural, economic, and social conditions. Economic Research-Ekonomska Istraživanja, 34(1), 2747–2766. https://doi.org/10.1080/1331677X.2020.1838314.

[17] Chitungo, I., Mhango, M., Mbunge, E., Dzobo, M., Musuka, G., & Dzinamarira, T. (2021). Utility of telemedicine in sub‐Saharan Africa during the COVID ‐19 pandemic. A rapid review. Human Behavior and Emerging Technologies, 3(5), 843–853. https://doi.org/10.1002/hbe2.297.

[18] Furusa, S. S., & Coleman, A. (2018). Factors influencing e-health implementation by medical doctors in public hospitals in Zimbabwe. SA Journal of Information Management, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/sajim.v20i1.928.

[19] International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Program (2020). Zimbabwe population-based HIV impact assessment. https://phia.icap.columbia.edu/zimbabwe2020-final-report/

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[22] Mugarisi, V. (2022). Zimbabwe conducts health labour market analysis. World Health Organization. https://www.afro.who.int/countries/zimbabwe/news/zimbabwe-conducts-health-labour-market-analysis.

[23] Gurupur, V. P., & Wan, T. T. H. (2017). Challenges in implementing mHealth interventions: A technical perspective. MHealth, 3, 32–32. https://doi.org/10.21037/mhealth.2017.07.05.

[24] Ministry of Child and Child Care. (n.d.). National Health Strategy 2020-2025 on the cards. Retrieved 3 September 2023, from http://www.mohcc.gov.zw/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=343:national-health-strategy-2020-2025-on-the-.

[25] Naqvi, S. Z., Ahmad, S., Rocha, I. C., Ramos, K. G., Javed, H., Yasin, F., Khan, H. D., Farid, S., Mohsin, A., & Idrees, A. (2022). Healthcare Workers’ Knowledge and Attitude Toward Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Global Survey. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.30079.

[26] Elhadi, M., Elhadi, A., Bouhuwaish, A., Bin Alshiteewi, F., Elmabrouk, A., Alsuyihili, A., Alhashimi, A., Khel, S., Elgherwi, A., Alsoufi, A., Albakoush, A., & Abdulmalik, A. (2021). Telemedicine Awareness, Knowledge, Attitude, and Skills of Health Care Workers in a Low-Resource Country During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-sectional Study. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 23(2), e20812. https://doi.org/10.2196/20812.

[27] Ayatollahi, H., Sarabi, F. Z. P., & Langarizadeh, M. (2015). Clinicians’ Knowledge and Perception of Telemedicine Technology. Perspectives in Health Information Management, 12(Fall), 1c.

[28] Renu, N. (2021). Technological advancement in the era of COVID-19. SAGE Open Medicine, 9, 205031212110009. https://doi.org/10.1177/20503121211000912.

[29] Mahtta, D., Daher, M., Lee, M. T., Sayani, S., Shishehbor, M., & Virani, S. S. (2021). Promise and Perils of Telehealth in the Current Era. Current Cardiology Reports, 23(9), 115. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-021-01544-w.

[30] Yaghobian, S., Ohannessian, R., Iampetro, T., Riom, I., Salles, N., De Bustos, E. M., Moulin, T., & Mathieu-Fritz, A. (2022). Knowledge, attitudes and practices of telemedicine education and training of French medical students and residents. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, 28(4), 248–257. https://doi.org/10.1177/1357633X20926829.

[31] Ncube, B., Mars, M., & Scott, R. E. (2023). Perceptions and attitudes of patients and healthcare workers towards the use of telemedicine in Botswana: An exploratory study. PLOS ONE, 18(2), e0281754. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281754.

Abstract:

Youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services involved range of Sexual and Reproductive Health services that are delivered to the specific needs, vulnerabilities, and desires of young people. This study aims to determine the availability and utilization of adolescent sexual and reproductive health services among youths in selected districts and municipalities in the Northern Region of Ghana. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was conducted in four selected districts using a mixed method of quantitative and qualitative approaches to data collections. Both male and female adolescent and young person aged 10-24 years were selected by simple random sampling through balloting. Convenient sampling was used to select four health workers for interviews. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and qualitative analysis was done using manual thematic analysis. The qualitative data was collected using an unstructured interview guide and analysed with thematic analysis. Findings showed average age was 16.64 years, and 70.5% had good knowledge score of SRH services availability. Types of SRH services provided include counselling and education on SRH issues, STIs screening, diagnosis, and management. About 69.8% have ever visited the health facilities for SRH service, and 36.1% covered more than an hour before accessing SRH services. About 21% had access contraceptives and family planning services. Barriers to accessing SRH services were attributed to; cost of healthcare (21.9%), long queues at facilities (15.3%), and distance to healthcare facility (12.4%). Associated factors were sex (OR = 1.72; 95%CI 1.16-2.57; p = 0.007), father educational attainment (OR = 2.03; 95%CI 1.35-3.03; p = 0.0001), and district of residence (OR = 5.72; 95%CI 2.01-16.25; p = 0.0005). Most adolescents and young people from the study findings had increased knowledge score on the types and availability of SRH services in the district health facilities. But utilization of the SRH services was low because, the point of delivery of these SRH services were far, and most have to cover long distance.

Keywords: Adolescent, Availability, Utilization, Reproductive Health Service, Ghana.

References:

[1] World Health Organization. (2018). Family Planning Evidence Brief: Reducing early and unintended pregnancies among adolescents. WHO/RHR/17.10. www.who.int.

[2] Bam, V., Bilal, S.M., Spigt, M., Dinant, G. J., & Blanco, R., (2019). Utilization of sexual and reproductive health services in Ethiopia. Does it affect sexual activity among high school students? Journal of Sexual Reproductive Health, 6(1), 14-18.

[3] Abajobir, A. A., & Seme, A. (2014). Reproductive health knowledge and services utilization among rural adolescents in east Gojjam zone, Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional study. BMC Health Services Research, 14(1), 1–11.

[4] Ghana Statistical Service (2014). Ghana demographic and health survey,2015. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.

[5] Ghana Health Service (2016). Monthly family planning performance feedback (Fact sheet). Accra: GHS, MOH. April 2.

[6] Kumi-Kyereme, A., (2021). ‘Sexual and reproductive health services utilisation amongst in-school young people with disabilities in Ghana’, African Journal of Disability 10(0), a671.

[7] Maguire, M., & Delahunt, B. (2017). Doing a thematic analysis: A practical, step-by step guide for learning and teaching scholars. Dundalk in state of technology. J of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 8(3).

[8] Awusabo-Asare, K., Yankey, B.A., Baiden, F., & Eliason, S. (2014). Determinants of unintended pregnancies in rural Ghana. BMC J of pregnancy and childbirth, 14 (2015), 1-9.

[9] Ajike, S. O., & Mbegbu, V. C. (2016). Adolescent / Youth utilization of reproductive health services : Knowledge still a barrier. The Need for Adolescents and Youths. PloS One Journal, 2(3), 17–22.

[10] Dapaah, J. M., Christopher, S., Appiah, Y., Amankwaa, A., & Ohene, L. R. (2016). Knowledge about Sexual and Reproductive Health Services and Practice of What Is Known among Ghanaian Youth , a Mixed Method Approach. January, 1–13.

[11] Bedho, C., Bankole, A., & Malarcher, S. (2014). Removing barriers to adolescents’ access to contraceptive information and services. J Studies in Fam Planning, 4(1), 117–124.

[12] Akatukwasa, C., Bajunirwe, F., Nuwamanya, S., Kansime, N., Aheebwe, E., & Tamwesigire, I. K. (2019). Integration of HIV-sexual reproductive health services for young people and the barriers at public health facilities in Mbarara Municipality , Southwestern Uganda : A qualitative assessment. BMJ Journal, 12(3).

[13] Binu, W., Marama, T., Gerbaba, M., & Sinaga, M. (2018). Sexual and reproductive health services utilization and associated factors among secondary school students in Nekemte town, Ethiopia. Bio Med Central, Reproductive Health, 15 (64), 1-10.

[14] Luvai, U.N., Kipmerewo, M., & Onyango, O.K. (2017). Utilization of youth friendly reproductive health services among the youth Bureti Sub County in Kenya (Abstract). European Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research, 4(4), 203-212.

[15] Murigi, M., Butto, D., Barasa, S., Maina, E., & Munyalo, B. (2016). Over coming barriers to contraceptive uptake among adolescents: Kiambu County , Kenya. 05(3), 1–10.

[16] McIntyre, P., Glen, W., & Peattie, S. (2012). Peer influence on sexual activities among adolescents in Ghana. Population Council, 4(6),1, 1.19.

[17] Schalet, A.T., Santelli, J.S., Russell, S.T., & Halpern, C.T. (2014). Adolescence building solid foundations for long life flourishing: World Health Organization. The European Magazine for Sexual and reproductive Health, 80.

[18] Darrroch, J.E., Woog, V., Bankole, A., & Ashford, L.S. (2016). Adding it up: Costsand benefits of meeting the contraceptives needs of adolescents. New York; Guttmacher Institute.

[19] Tlaye, K. G., Belete, M. A., Demelew, T. M., & Getu, M. A. (2018). Reproductive health services utilization and its associated factors among adolescents in Debre Berhan town , Central Ethiopia : a community-based cross-sectional study. 1–11.

[20] Igras, S. M., Macieira, M., Murphy, E., & Lundgren, R. (2014). Investing in very young adolescents ‘ sexual and reproductive health. Global Public Health, 9(5), 555–569.

[21] Pinyopornpanish, K., Thanamee, S., & Angkurawaranon, C. (2017). Sexual health, risky sexual behavior and condom use among adolescents’ young adults and older adults in Chiang Mai, Thailand: Findings of a population-based survey. BMC Research Journal, 10 (1), 682.

[22] Shayan, Z. (2015). Gender Inequality in Education in Afghanistan : Access and Barriers. May, 277–284.

[23] Breaken, P., & Rondinelli, K.A. (2012). Work-family interference among Ghanaian women in higher status occupations. (Ph.DThesis), University of Nottingham, Nottingham.

[24] Asibi, A.A.& Anaba, E.A., (2019). Barriers on access to and use of adolescent health services in Ghana. Journal of Health Research, 33(3), 197-207.

[25] Kuhn, I. (2019). Advancing the sexual and reproductive health rights of adolescent girls and young woman: A focus on safe abortion in 2030, Agenda for sustainable development. Chapel Hill, USA. Advocates for Youth. www.advocatesforyouth.org

[26] Abrafi, B., Weller, W. E., Minkovitz, C. S., & Anderson, G. F. (2018). Utilization of medical and health-related services among school-age children and adolescents with special health care needs (1994 national health interview survey on disability [NHIS-D] baseline data). Pediatrics,11(2), 593–603.

[27] Geremew, G., Tlaye, K., Belete, M. A., Demelew, T. M., & Getu, M. A. (2018). Reproductive health services utilization and its associated factors among adolescents in Debre Berhan town, Central Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional study, 1–1.

[28] Ivanova, O., Rai, M., & Kemigisha, E. (2018). A systematic review of sexual and reproductive health knowledge, experiences, and access to services among refugee, migrant and displaced girls and young women in Africa. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15(8), 1583.

[29] Morris, J. L., & Rushwan, H. (2015). International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics Adolescent sexual and reproductive health : The global challenges. International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 131, S40–S42.

[30] Ganchimeg, T., Ota, E., Morisaki, N., Laopaiboon, M., Lumbiganon, P., & Zhang, J. (2014). Pregnancy and childbirth outcomes among adolescent mothers: a World Health Organization multicountry study. BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 121 Suppl(June 2018), 40–48.

Abstract:

Various interventions, including innovative technologies, have been used to solve problems. Over the years, the Nigerian government has introduced a good healthcare delivery system, including providing quality, efficacious and affordable drugs. The study used a qualitative design method adopting a focus group discussion approach. The selected states for the study are Lagos, Kano, Anambra and FCT Abuja. The study population comprised NAFDAC stakeholders who are dealers in pharmaceutical products or Marketing Authorization Holders (MAHs) of medicines, Consumers and Policymakers. The focus group participants were selected based on convenience sampling. The interventions highlighted were Mobile Authentication Services (MAS), on-the-spot checks on drugs through a TruScan, Black-Eye and Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID). The respondents also highlighted using NAFDAC registration numbers and holograms as important ways of checking the features of medicine before using it. The participants also highlighted the lack of public awareness about these interventions and the need for proper regulation and enforcement of laws against the sale and distribution of fake drugs as challenges that hinder the successful development and implementation of interventions against fake and counterfeit drugs. The participants suggested KYC measures to address issues within the supply chain to evaluate the effectiveness of their current strategies. Regular meetings, advocacy efforts, and educational workshops are recommended to raise awareness and educate stakeholders about their roles and responsibilities in pursuit of addressing the challenges related to counterfeit drug interventions.

Keywords: Focus group discussion (FGD), Investigation, Intervention, Counterfeit, Technology.

References:

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[2] Akunyili D., (2007). Counterfeit medicines: A serious crime against humanity. Proceedings of the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Nigeria, to the European Parliament in Brussels. 1–7.

[3] Amadi, L., & Amadi2, M. (2014a). Sustainable Drug Consumption, Regulatory Dynamics and Fake Drug Repositioning in Nigeria: A Case of NAFDAC. Journal of Scientific Issues, 2(9), 412–419. http://www.sci-afric.org.

[4] Adelusi A J (2000) Drug Distribution: Challenges and Effects on The Nigerian Society. Keynote address at the &3rd Annual National Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria held at Nicon Hilton Hotel, Abuja ,6th -10th, November 2000.

[5] Akinyandenu O (2013) Counterfeit drugs in Nigeria: A threat to public health. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. Vol. 7(36), pp. 2571-2576.

[6] Reggi, V. (2007). Counterfeit medicines: An intent to deceive. International Journal of Risk & Safety in Medicine, 19(1/2), 105–108. http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=25215283&site=ehost-live.

[7] Ubajaka, C. F., Obi-okaro, A. C., Emelumadu, O. F., Azumarah, M. N., Ukegbu, A. U., & Ilikannu, S. O. (2016). Factors Associated with Drug Counterfeit in Nigeria : A Twelve Year Review. 12(4), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.9734/BJMMR/2016/21342.

[8] Akunyili, D. (2010). The challenges faced by NAFDAC in the National regulatory process relate to essential drugs for preventing maternal and newborn deaths in Nigeria. Tropical Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 27(April 2010).

[9] NAFDAC. (2017). NAFDAC Anti-counterfeiting Strategies. https://www.nafdac.gov.ng/about-nafdac/nafdac-anti-counterfeiting-strategies/.

[10] Horalek, J. & Sobeslav, V (2017). Track & Trace System with Serialization Prototyping Methodology for Pharmaceutical Industry in EU. 14th International Conference, https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-65515-4_15.

[11] Egwu, P. E. (2018). Audience exposure and attitude towards NAFDAC’S ‘Mobile Authentication Service’ (MAS) campaigns in three selected southeast states. In Energies (Vol. 6, Issue 1). https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjFkJvyhujAhWTM8AKHc7iB5oQFnoECBcQAQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Frepository.unn.edu.ng%2Fbitstream%2Fhandle%2F123456789%2F9142%2FEgwu%2C%2520Patrick%2520Ejike%2520Jnr.pdf%3Fsequ.

[12] Akinyandenu, O. (2013). Counterfeit drugs in Nigeria: A threat to public health. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 7(36), 2571–2576. https://doi.org/10.5897/ajpp12.343.

[13] Chinedu-Okeke, C. F., Okoro, N., & Obi, I. (2021). Mobile Authentication Service (MAS) Scheme and Public Participation in Eradicating Fake Drugs in Southeast Nigeria. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 05(06), 90–98. https://doi.org/10.47772/ijriss.2021.5605.

[14] Elizabeth Uzochukwu, C. (2017). Audience awareness and use of mobile authentication service (MAS) in identifying fake and substandard drugs in Nigeria. Journal of African Studies. Journal of African Studies, 77(11), 46–66.

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[16] Adekoya, H. O., & Ekeh, C. M. (2021). Awareness and Adoption of Drug Mobile Authentication Service : A Conscious Approach in Eradication of Fake and Counterfeit Drugs in Nigeria. 7(1), 43–51.

[17] Chen, Y., Wang, Y., Wang, N., Xiang, Y., Zhang, R., Xiao, J., Liu, H., & Feng, B. (2021). A cross-sectional study of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding pharmacovigilance among the general public in Western China. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 37(1), 101–108. https://doi.org/10.1080/03007995.2020.1846171.

[18] Mhando, L., Jande, M. B., Liwa, A., Mwita, S., & Marwa, K. J. (2016). Public Awareness and Identification of Counterfeit Drugs in Tanzania: A View on Antimalarial Drugs. Advances in Public Health, 2016, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/6254157.

[19] Adisa, R., Adeniyi, O. R., & Fakeye, T. O. (2019). Knowledge, awareness, perception and reporting of experienced adverse drug reactions among outpatients in Nigeria. International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy, 41(4), 1062–1073. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11096-019-00849-9.

[20] Adigwe, O. P., Onavbavba, G., & Wilson, D. O. (2022). Challenges Associated with Addressing Counterfeit Medicines in Nigeria: An Exploration of Pharmacists’ Knowledge, Practices, and Perceptions. Integrated Pharmacy Research and Practice, Volume 11(November), 177–186. https://doi.org/10.2147/iprp.s387354.

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Abstract:

The coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic has caused suffering and pain to mankind leading to many individuals practising self-medication and substance abuse that could elevate substance use disorders (SUDs). This study assessed the impact of Covid-19 on SUDs among Kanyama residents of Lusaka district, Zambia. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study using patient files at Kanyama First-Level Hospital from September 2021 to October 2021. Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS version 26.0. Of the 101 participants, 86.1% were male. The study showed that Covid-19 had an impact on SUDs with alcohol (83.2%) being the most abused substance. There was no significant difference in the type of substances abused (p=0.870) and intoxication symptoms (p=0.331) between the pre-Covid and post-Covid groups. There was a significant difference between substance use (p=0.001) and withdrawal symptoms (p=0.002) in both cohorts, with the post-Covid group consuming more substances and experiencing more withdrawal symptoms. Factors that influenced substance abuse included recent unemployment (p<0.001), boredom (p<0.001), overcrowding at home (p<0.001), and gender-based violence (p<0.001) influenced the change in the pattern of substance use. Recreational use was not associated with a change in the pattern of substance abuse (p=0. 667). This study found that the Covid-19 pandemic increased the practices of substance abuse among Kanyama residents, especially those who were unemployed, bored, overcrowded at home and experienced gender-based violence. There is a need to heighten the monitoring and restriction of substance use, especially among adolescents and youths to curb some mental health problems.

Keywords: Covid-19; Pandemic; Self-medication; Substance abuse; substance use disorders; Zambia.

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Abstract:

Health care workers are essential in averting the high infant and mortality rates in Kenya. The immediate postpartum period is a delicate period when the mother and infant's health is in danger with evidence indicating the majority of deaths occurring during this period. The aim of the study was to assess mothers' perception of quality of care during the immediate postpartum period in selected facilities in Kakamega County in Kenya. Socio-demographic factors, knowledge and health services provided during the immediate postpartum period were evaluated. A cross-sectional descriptive study design to collect quantitative data was adopted. Self-administered questionnaires were utilized to collect data. The study participants were 257 postnatal mothers who were systematically sampled from facilities within Kakamega County. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 21.0. Descriptive statistics were used to present quantitative data in frequency tables, charts, and graphs. Inferential statics were done using Chi-Square tests at a 95% confidence interval (p<0.05). The results revealed majority of the women perceived the quality of postpartum care as slightly above average at 3.18(63.6%). 58.1% of participants had high knowledge on immediate postpartum care. Knowledge level (p = 0.018) had a significant association with the perceived postpartum care quality. Socio-demographic factors such as age (p=0.014), education (p=0.001), and parity (p=0.029) were associated with the perceived quality of postpartum care. Availability of family planning (p=0.050), immunization (p=0.001), and nutritional counseling services (p=0.012) was associated with the perceived quality of postpartum care. In conclusion the perceived quality of postpartum care was slightly above average with availability of health services positively influencing perception.

Keywords: Perception, Quality, and Immediate postpartum care.

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Abstract:

Effective vaccine stock management is one of the criteria for a functional vaccine supply chain. The study evaluated vaccine management practices among healthcare workers in equipped and non-equipped public health facilities in Jigawa State, Northwest Nigeria. A cross sectional comparative study was conducted to assess vaccine management knowledge and practices amongst healthcare workers rendering routine immunization. A multistage sampling technique was used for the selection of respondents. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from respondents. Level of significance set at p<0.05. There was a significant difference for response on vaccine vail monitors are the only temperature monitoring devices that routinely accompany vaccines throughout the entire supply chain among healthcare workers from equipped health facilities 213 (77.2%) as compared to those from non-equipped health facilities 63 (22.8%). There was a statistical difference in attitude of vaccines and cold chain management between both groups. Respondents from equipped health facilities had good practices of vaccines and cold chain management as compared to those from non-equipped health facilities. The study revealed that healthcare workers from equipped health facilities had good knowledge and positive attitude on vaccines and cold chain management as compared to their counterparts from non-equipped health facilities. Drivers of effective vaccine stock management are length of years working in health facilities, good knowledge, and practices on vaccine stock management as evident among healthcare workers from equipped health facilities. Findings from this study could be used to improve effective vaccine stock management at the state, LGA, and health facility levels.

Keywords: Comparative study, Healthcare workers, Nigeria, Practices, Vaccine management.

References:

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[14] Adebimpe, W., Adeoye, O., 2021, Knowledge and practice of vaccination logistics management among primary health care workers in Nigeria., Hum. Vaccin Immunother., 17(5), 1490-1495, https://doi:10.1080/21645515.2020.1827609.

[15] Nwankwo, B., Joga, S., Olorukooba, A., Amadu, L., Onoja-Alexander, K., Hamza, M.O., 2018, Knowledge, attitude, and practice of cold chain management among primary health care workers in Giwa, Northwestern Nigeria. Arch. Med. Surg., 3(2), 71–76, https://www.archms.org/article.asp?issn=2543-1951;year=2018;volume=3;issue=2;spage=71;epage=76;aulast=Nwankwo.

[16] Azira, B., Norhayati, M., Norwati, D., 2013, Knowledge, attitude, and adherence to cold chain among general practitioners in Kelatan, Malaysia. Int J Collab Res Med Public Heal., 5, 3–11, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/263165247_Knowledge_Attitude_and_Adherence_to_Cold_Chain_among_General_Practitioners_in_Kelantan_Malaysia.

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[19] Carr, C., Byles, J., Durrheim, D., 2004, Practice nurses best protect the vaccine cold chain in general practice. Aust J Adv Nurs, 27(2), 30–40, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237650218_Practice_nurses_best_protect_the_vaccine_cold_chain_in_general_practice.

[20] Mohammed, S., Workneh, B., Kahissay, M, 2021, Knowledge, attitude and practice of vaccinators and vaccine handlers on vaccine cold chain management in public health facilities, Ethiopia: Cross-sectional study. PLoS One, 16(2), e0247459, https://www.doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0247459.

Abstract:

Female sex workers (FSW) are among the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) most-at-risk sub-populations worldwide. During COVID-19 pandemic, movement of people including FSWs was restricted in many parts of Nigeria. This paper reports on a study conducted to determine sexual practices and risk profile among FSWs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uyo, Nigeria. This study was a cross-sectional study among FSWs at Uyo One-stop-shop for Key Populations from June 2020–August 2020 using a structured questionnaire. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Responses to consistent condom use and sexual practices with different categories of clients, prophylaxis use, and adherence were collected. Bivariate analyses were done using the Chi-square test as well as Fisher’s exact test while multivariate analysis was with logistic regression analysis and P-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant. 357 FSWs interviewed, but only 344(96.4%) had complete response. 37.2% of the respondents were within the 25-29 years age range and mean (standard deviation-SD) age of 29.06(5.20). 72.4% of the respondents reported they consistently use condoms with first-time clients and 65.7% with repeat clients. 88.7% of the respondents were unmarried and 74.4% have been FSW for ≤5 years with a mean (SD) duration of 4.95(4.02) years. 47.4% of respondents had unprotected sex when incentivized by clients. Cases of HIV exposure among respondents without prophylaxis were reported by 34.9% and 38.1% of the respondents, respectively. Overall adherence to PEP was 30.9%. A high proportion of FSWs engage in high-risk behaviors. FSWs should be advised on their role in HIV prevention through consistent condom use.

Keywords: COVID-19, Female Sex Workers, Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, Sexual Behaviours, Sexual Practices.

References:

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Abstract:

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem in Guinea, where many cases are undetected and untreated. A robust health information system is needed to improve TB case detection and treatment outcomes. DHIS2 (District Health Information Software 2) is a web-based system that collects, analyses and reports data on TB indicators. However, its use and use in Guinea is affected by various factors. We explored these factors using a qualitative survey with health workers and managers who use DHIS2 for TB surveillance. We collected data through a survey with open-ended questions and analysed them using classical content analysis. We conducted a qualitative survey with 35 health workers and managers who use DHIS2 for TB surveillance at different levels of the health system in Guinea. We collected data through an online survey with open-ended questions and analysed them using classical content analysis with NVivo software. We identified four main themes: technical issues (such as internet connection, data synchronisation, and validation rules), data quality issues (such as data validation, data aberrations, and data completeness), training and support issues (such as data analysis techniques, online training, orientation on DHIS2), and organisational issues (such as integration of community data, standardisation of data elements, meetings for data validation). We discussed how these findings could inform the improvement of DHIS2 for TB surveillance in Guinea and other similar settings.

Keywords: DHIS2, Health information system, Surveillance, Tuberculosis, Qualitative study.

References:

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Abstract:

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of health systems strengthening on the consumption of public healthcare services in Northern Namibia. The study assessed how the following components of health systems strengthening influence the consumption of public health care services; (1) timeliness and readiness of services rendered, (2) health workforce competence, (3) health information systems, (4) availability of essential medicines, (5) healthcare financing and lastly (6) leadership and governance. We used a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study design. 672 respondents were identified using the purposive sampling technique and a well-structured Likert-scaled questionnaire was used for the interviews. Collected information was entered into data sets and analysis was done using Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 software. The results were that over 95% of the respondents strongly agreed with each of the factors assessed. Health systems strengthening remains an important factor in the delivery of health services. This was taken note of when 48% of the participants agreed that a good competent health workforce determines their choice of healthcare facility when they are not feeling well. This was further augmented when 49% of the participants agreed that healthcare financing influences people’s choice to go and seek healthcare services from government facilities. It was concluded that health systems strengthening is the cornerstone for improved consumption of public health care services in Northern Namibia. We recommend that governments should develop strong health systems at all levels of health service delivery.

Keywords: Consumption, Health Systems Strengthening, Public Healthcare Services.

References:

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Abstract:

This study assessed the knowledge, attitude and practices of caregivers of children living with HIV (Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus) in Lagos State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 500 caregivers of children living with HIV who reside and are receiving treatment in a government health facility in Lagos State. The Sampling technique was purposive sampling based on some inclusion and exclusion criteria, data collection was administered by telephone interview, and the questionnaire was deployed using CAPI (Computer Assisted Personal Interviews) (Kobo Collect) for ease and time management. The study discovered that caring for children living with HIV is demanding. As most of the caregivers are married, and self-employed. The majority of the children living with HIV in this study have been on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least 5 years. Most caregivers are parents of the infected child/children living with HIV. Additionally, most caregivers had a good knowledge of HIV transmission and prevention, but they had limited knowledge of paediatric HIV management and had negative attitudes towards HIV. They also reported experiencing stigma and discrimination. These findings suggest that there is a need to improve the knowledge and attitudes of caregivers in order to improve the management of paediatric HIV, Interventions should be designed to address the stigma and discrimination experienced by caregivers. Accurate information should be provided to caregivers about paediatric HIV and paediatric HIV management. The results from this study may not be generalizable to other settings as this study was conducted in Lagos State. In addition, the study relied on self-reported data, which may be subject to bias.

Keywords: Attitude, Caregiver, HIV, Knowledge, Practice and Viral Load.

References:

[1] Afolabi, B. A., Ogunleye, O. A., Afolabi, O. A., & Adetoro, O. A. (2013). The impact of HIV/AIDS on vulnerable children: A review of the literature. African Health Sciences, 13(4), 920-926. doi:10.4314/ahs.v13i4.9.

[2] Lazarus, J. M. (2021). HIV/AIDS: A comprehensive guide to diagnosis, treatment, and care. CRC Press. ISBN: 9781138570503.

[3] Waterfield, R. (2021). HIV/AIDS: A practical guide to care and management. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN: 9781119638212.

[4] Avert. (2021). HIV & AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa. Retrieved from https://www.avert.org/professionals/hiv-around-world/sub-saharan-africa.

[5] United Nations. (2011). Goal 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases. Available at: www.un.org/millenniumgoals/aids.shtml.

[6] Olusola, F., Fatusi, A. O., Adebayo, A. A., & Ogunyemi, O. S. (2019). Stigma and discrimination as barriers to HIV testing and care in Nigeria: A systematic review. BMC Public Health, 19(1), 1398. doi:10.1186/s12889-019-7357-0.

[7] Oke, A., Isah, A., Onyebuchi, O. C., & Nwagwu, C. (2019). Factors influencing access to antiretroviral therapy for children living with HIV in Nigeria: A qualitative study. AIDS Care, 31(1), 13-19. doi:10.1080/09540121.2018.1547140.

[8] UNICEF. (2021). Addressing discrimination and gender inequalities in the context of HIV: A guide for policy-makers and programme managers. New York: UNICEF.

[9] World Health Organization. (2011a). Consolidated guidelines on the use of antiretroviral drugs for treating and preventing HIV infection: Recommendations for a public health approach. Geneva: World Health Organization.

[10] Badru, A. K. (2020). The role of caregivers in the success of paediatric antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Nigeria. Sokoto Educational Review, 19(1), 72-84. doi:10.35386/ser.v19i1.146.

[11] Busza, J., Lawn, S. D., Newell, M. L., & Coovadia, H. (2018). Improving health outcomes for children living with HIV in low- and middle-income countries: A critical review of the evidence. Lancet, 391(10129), 2128-2145. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(18)30271-X.

[12] Piloya, M., Chisale, J. M., Mwale, F., Mwilambwe, S., & Maseko, P. (2021). Challenges and opportunities in the provision of HIV care to children in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review. BMC Public Health, 21(1), 2084. doi:10.1186/s12889-021-10977-x.

[13] Ukaegbu, E., Alibekova, R., Ali, S., Crape, B., & Issanov, A. (2022). Trends of HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitudes among Nigerian women between 2007 and 2017 using Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey data. BMC Public Health, 22(1), 440. doi:10.1186/s12889-022-12865-y.

[14] Awoleye, O. M., Ojuloge, M. A., & Siyanbola, W. O. (2012). Factors influencing adherence to antiretroviral therapy among children living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. AIDS Care, 24(9), 1150-1157. doi:10.1080/09540121.2011.630860.

[15] World Health Organization (2010). Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV Infection in Infants
and Children: Towards Universal Access: Recommendations for a Public Health Approach - 2010 revision. Geneva, Switzerland: http://www.who.int/hiv/pub/paediatric/infants2010/en/index.html.

[16] Orenuga, S. O., Olubodun, A. A., Adejumo, A. O., Lawal, A. O., & Ogunsola, F. (2018). Nutritional status and risk of opportunistic infections among HIV-positive children in southwestern Nigeria. BMC Public Health, 18(1), 891. doi:10.1186/s12889-018-5651-8.

[17] Olowookere, S. A., Bamigboye, M. O., Oyeleke, O. M., & Oladele, J. O. (2020). Association between frequent viral load monitoring and clinical outcomes in HIV-positive children in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, 9(1), e20-e23. doi:10.1093/jpids/piaa104.

[18] Humphrey, A. M., Govaerts, R., Ficinski, S. Z., Masoka, E., Chandiwana, A., & Ndlovu, M. (2019). Caregivers’ attitudes towards caring for HIV-positive children and adherence to antiretroviral therapy: A cross-sectional study in Zimbabwe. AIDS Care, 31(7), 919-926. doi:10.1080/09540121.2019.1568547.

[19] Abdullahi, S.B., Ibrahim, O.R., Okeji, A.B., Yandoma, R.I., Bashir, I., Haladu, S., Idris, S.A., Oseni T.I., Suleiman, B.M., Yahaya, M. & Sufiyan, S.B. (2021). Viral suppression among HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy in northwestern Nigeria: An eleven-year review of tertiary care records, January- 2009- December, 2019. BMC Infectious Diseases, 21:1031. https://bmcinfectdis.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12879-021-06722-3.

[20] Asuquo, E.F., Atowa, J.B., & Adejumo, P. (2014). Assessing the relationship between caregivers’ burden and the availability of support for family caregivers of HIV/AIDS patients in Calabar, South-East Nigeria. World Journal of AIDS, 3(4), 335-344. https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation.aspx?paperid=40632.

Abstract:

The growing concerns regarding stock out of vaccines at the health facility level during immunization sessions have resulted in missed opportunity and caregivers losing confidence in the health system. This study assessed the drivers and barriers to effective vaccine stock management amongst healthcare workers in equipped and non-equipped health facilities in Jigawa state, Nigeria. A cross sectional comparative study was conducted to assess barriers of vaccine stock management amongst healthcare workers rendering routine immunization. A multistage sampling technique was used for the selection of respondents. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from respondents. Level of significance set at p<0.05. Majority of the respondents from equipped health facilities 142 (71.7%) and non-equipped health facilities 56 (28.3%) had between 1-9 years of practice. Use of target population data for vaccine forecasting had the highest responses with 60% of healthcare workers in equipped health facilities as compared to 22% from non-equipped health facilities. Reserved stock as a parameter for vaccine restocking had the least responses with 15% of healthcare workers in equipped health facilities as compared to 6% from non-equipped health facilities. Respondents from equipped health facilities had good practices of vaccines and cold chain management as compared to those from non-equipped health facilities. Poor electricity supply was statistically significant (p=0.029) with more responses from healthcare workers from equipped health facilities as compared to those from non-equipped health facilities. The findings from this study could be used to improve effective vaccine stock management at the state, LGA, and health facility levels.

Keywords: Barriers, Comparative study, Healthcare workers, Nigeria, Vaccine management, practices.

References:

[1] World Health Organization, 2009, Immunization against diseases of public health importance. The cost effectiveness of vaccination. Declaration of Alma-Ata. International Conference on Primary Health Care, Alma-Ata, USSR; 6-12, 1978, https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/primary-health-care-conference/public-health.pdf.

[2] Bloom, D., Canning, D., Weston, M., 2005, The value of vaccination. World Econ., 6(3), 15–39, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-7185-2_1.

[3] World Health Organization and UNICEF, 2005, GIVS Global immunization vision and strategy 2006-2015. World Health Organization. http://www.who.int/vaccines-documents/DocsPDF05/GIVS_Final_ EN.pdf.

[4] Maurice, J., Davey, S., 2009, State of the world’s vaccines and immunization. 3rd edition, World Health Organization and United Nations Children Fund, 169, https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/44169.

[5] Yadav, P., 2015, Health Product Supply Chains in Developing Countries: Diagnosis of the Root Causes of Underperformance and an Agenda for Reform. Heal. Syst. Reform, 1(2), 142–154, https://doi:10.4161/23288604.2014.968005.

[6] Anderson, R., Perrier, T., Pervaiz, F., Sisouveth, N., Kumar, B., Phongphila, S., 2014, Supporting immunization programs with improved vaccine cold chain information systems. In: IEEE global humanitarian technology conference (GHTC 2014), https://doi:10.1109/GHTC.2014.6970284.

[7] Payne, S., Townend, J., Jasseh, M., Jallow, Y., Kampmann, B., 2014, Achieving comprehensive childhood immunization: An analysis of obstacles and opportunities in The Gambia. Health Policy Plan., 29(2), 193–203, https://doi:10.1093/heapol/czt004.

[8] World Health Organization, 2016, 10 facts on polio eradication. http://www.who.int/features/factfiles/polio/facts/en/index.html.

[9] National Primary Health Care Development Agency, 2022, Routine Immunization SMS Platform.

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[13] Barber, S., Lorenzoni, L., Ong, P., 2019, Price setting and price regulation in health care: lessons for advancing Universal Health Coverage. Geneva: World Health Organization, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development., https://www.oecd.org/health/health-systems/oecd-who-price-setting-summary-report.pdf.

[14] Onwujekwe, O., Mbachu, C., Ezenwaka, U., Arize, I., Ezumah, N., 2019, Characteristics and Effects of Multiple and Mixed Funding Flows to Public Healthcare Facilities on Financing Outcomes: A Case Study From Nigeria. Front Public Heal., 7, 403, https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2019.00403.

[15] Ameen, H., Salaudeen, A., Musa, O., Aderibigbe, S., Akande, T., Ameen, K., 2016, Predictors of vaccine management practices among primary healthcare workers (PHCWs) in Ilorin, North Central Nigeria. Res. J. Heal. Sci., 4(2), 148–161, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/305495236.

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[18] Carr, C., Byles, J., Durrheim, D., 2004, Practice nurses best protect the vaccine cold chain in general practice. Aust J Adv Nurs, 27(2), 30–40, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237650218_Practice_nurses_best_protect_the_vaccine_cold_chain_in_general_practice.

[19] Nwankwo, B., Joga, S., Olorukooba, A., Amadu, L., Onoja-Alexander, K., Hamza, M.O., 2018, Knowledge, attitude, and practice of cold
chain management among primary health care workers in Giwa, Northwestern Nigeria. Arch. Med. Surg., 3(2), 71–76, https://www.archms.org/article.asp?issn=2543-1951;year=2018;volume=3;issue=2;spage=71;epage=76;aulast=Nwankwo.

[20] Mohammed, S., Workneh, B., Kahissay, M, 2021, Knowledge, attitude and practice of vaccinators and vaccine handlers on vaccine cold chain management in public health facilities, Ethiopia: Cross-sectional study. PLoS One, 16(2), e0247459, https://www.doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0247459.

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[23] Dairo, D., Osizimete, O., 2016, Factors affecting vaccine handling and storage practices among immunizationservice providers in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.. Afr. Health Sci., 16(2), 576, http://doi: 10.4314/ahs.v16i2.27.

Abstract:

Successful treatment for Perinatally Infected Adolescents (PIA) faces physical challenges like the risk of co-morbidity, deferred growth, and development, often resulting in late puberty in girls, and stunting/wasting makes it difficult to reach the transition phase of adulthood. The study aims to identify the correlation between ART adherence with nutritional status and QOL and find the association between adherence scores with selected demographic variables among adolescents. A randomized Controlled Trial design was adopted. Through simple random technique, a total of 388 HIV-infected adolescents were divided into experimental (195) and control (193) groups. The data were collected from four ART clinics in Chennai, India, through standardized ART adherence, QOL, and structured nutritional assessment questionnaires. Motivational counselling was given to the experimental group, and the researcher demonstrated selected asanas. The data were collected from both groups at ‘0’, ‘3’ & 6-month intervals. Descriptive & inferential statistics were used for the analysis of data. Regarding correlation, in the experimental group, baseline assessment showed poor correlation, but in the 3^rd & 6^th months there was a fair and moderate correlation found and was significant at p=0.05** and P=0.001*** respectively. Whereas in a control group, throughout the assessment period showed that, there was a poor correlation. Regarding association, showed adolescents' age, sex, sex of caregivers, relationship with adolescents, and residence were found significant. Motivational counseling along with asana has a positive correlation to ART adherence to promote the health and well-being of adolescents in the experimental group than in the control group.

Keywords: Adherence, Correlation, HIV-infected adolescents, Nutrition, Quality of life.

References:

[1] Cruz ML, Cardoso CA. Perinatally infected adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (perinatally human immunodeficiency virus). World J Virol. 2015 Aug 12;4(3):277-84. doi: 10.5501/wjv. v4.i3.277. PMID: 26279988; PMCID: PMC4534818.

[2] Vidya Vijayan KK, Karthigeyan KP, Tripathi SP, Hanna LE. Pathophysiology of CD4+ T-Cell Depletion in HIV-1 and HIV-2 Infections. Front Immunol. 2017 May 23; 8:580. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00580. PMID: 28588579; PMCID: PMC5440548.

[3] Julie S. Eggleton; Shivaraj Nagalli. Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) July 4, 2022.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554533/.

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[5] Simona A. Iacob, Diana G. Iacob and Gheorghita Jugulete. Improving the Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy, a Difficult but Essential Task for a Successful HIV Treatment—Clinical Points of View and Practical Considerations. Front. Pharmacol., 23 November 2017 Sec. Drugs Outcomes Research and Policies 8 – 2017.

[6] HIV and AIDS in adolescents, UNICEF. July 2021. https://data.unicef.org/topic/hiv-aids.

[7] Bellavia A, Williams PL, DiMeglio LA, Hazra R, Abzug MJ, Patel K, Jacobson DL, Van Dyke RB, Geffner ME; International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials (IMPAACT) P219/219C Study, and the Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study (PHACS). Delay in sexual maturation in perinatally HIV-infected youths is mediated by poor growth. AIDS. 2017 Jun 1;31(9):1333-1341. doi: 10.1097/QAD.0000000000001486. PMID: 28358737; PMCID: PMC5472204.

[8] Bliss JR, Njenga M, Stoltzfus RJ, Pelletier DL. Stigma as a barrier to treatment for child acute malnutrition in Marsabit County, Kenya. Matern Child Nutr. 2016 Jan;12(1):125-38. doi: 10.1111/mcn.12198. Epub 2015 May 18. PMID: 25989353; PMCID: PMC6860141.

[9] Zewen Liu, Zhangpin Ren, Jun Zhang, Chia-Chen Chuang.Role of ROS and Nutritional Antioxidants in Human Diseases Front. Physiol., Volume 9.2018 https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys. 2018.00477.

[10] Andrinopoulos K, Clum G, Murphy DA  Harper G. Health Related Quality Of Life and Psychosocial Correlates Among HIV-Infected Adolescent And Young Adult Women In The Us. AIDS Educ Prev. 2011 Aug; 23(4): 367–381.

[11] Forlanini F, Albani ME, Geluardi Y, Ciceri A, Longoni E, et al. (2023) Evaluation of Quality of Life, Mental Health, Psychological and Neuro-Cognitive Aspects in Young Women Living with HIV Infection: Parallel between Vertically and Behaviorally Acquired HIV Infection. J Family Med Prim Care Open Acc 7: 211. DOI: https://doi.org/10.29011/2688-7460.100211.

[12] Bekker LG, Johnson L, Wallace M and Hosek S. Building our youth for the future.J Int AIDS Soc. 2015; 18; 2: (1). doi: 10.7448/IAS.18.2.20027.

[13] Oberdorfer P, Louthrenoo O, Puthanakit T, Sirisanthana V et al., Quality of Life Among HIV-Infected Children in Thailand. Journal of the International Association of Physicians in AIDS Care.2008; 7: (3).141-47 doi: 10.1177/1545109708318877.

[14] Verma, C. V., Kamble, A., & Krishnan, V. (2019). Exercises versus Yoga: Impact on Quality of Life amongst HIV Positive Individuals. New Insights into Disease and Pathogen Research Vol. 3, 90-98. Retrieved from https://stm1.bookpi.org/index.php/nidpr-v3/article/view/789.

[15] Naoroibam R, Metri KG, Bhargav H, Nagaratna R et al., Effect of Integrated Yoga (IY) on psychological states and CD4 counts of HIV-1 infected Patients: A Randomized controlled pilot study. Int J Yoga. 2016; 9 (1): 57-61.

[16] Mary-Ann Davies, Jorge Pinto, Marlène BrasGetting to 90-90-90 in paediatric HIV: What is needed?: 02 December 2015. https://doi.org/10.7448/IAS.18.7.20770.

[17] Looking Out for Adolescents and Youth From Key Populations. UNICEF- East Asia and Pacific Regional Office and United Nations Asia Pacific Interagency Task Team on Young Key Populations, November 2019. https://www.unicef.org/eap/media/4446/file/Looking%20out%20for%20adolescents%20and%20youth%20from%20key%20populations.pdf.

[18] Cardoso CA, Pinto JA, Candiani, TM, Carvalho IR et al., The impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy on the survival of vertically HIV-infected children and adolescents in Belo horizonte, Brazil. Memórias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz.2012; 102: 532-538. Available in http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0074-02762012000400014.

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[20] Cordova E, Yañez J, Claudia G Ismael R. Safety, and efficacy of antiretroviral therapy in perinatally HIV-1 infected patients following transition to an adult HIV-care hospital with virological failure in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin. 2015;33(2):133–140 doi: 10.1016/j.eimc.2014.05.005.

[21] Botros D, Somarriba G, NeriD,Miller LT. Interventions to Address Chronic Disease and HIV: Strategies to Promote Exercise and Nutrition Among HIV-Infected Individuals Curr HIV/AIDS Rep.2012; 9: 351. doi:10.1007/s11904-012-0135-7.

[22] Kabue MM, Kekitiinwa A, Maganda A, Risser JM, Chan W, Kline MW. Growth in HIV-infected receiving antiretroviral therapy at a paediatric infectious disease’s clinic in Uganda. AIDS Patient Care STDS. 2008; 22:245–25.

[23] Eby J, Chapman J, Marukutira T et al., The adherence-outcome relationship is not altered by diary-driven adjustments of microelectronic monitor data Pharmaco epidemiol Drug Saf. 2015; 24 (12):1313-20. doi: 10.1002/pds.3887. Epub 2015 Oct 12.

[24] Swaminathan S, Padmapriyadarshini C, Yoojin L, Sukumar B et al., Nutritional Supplementation in HIV-Infected Individuals in South India: A Prospective Interventional Study. Clin Infect Dis. (2010) 51 (1): 51-57.doi: 10.1086/653111

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[29] Ogalha C, Luz E, Sampaio E, Souza R et al., A randomized, clinical trial to evaluate the impact of regular physical activity on the quality of life, body morphology and metabolic parameters of patients with AIDS in Salvador, Brazil J Acquir Immune DeficSyndr. 2011; 57(3). S179-85. doi: 10.1097/QAI.0b013e31821e9bca.

Abstract:

The Sella turcica is an anatomical structure shaped explicitly like a saddle, located within the middle cranial fossa on the intracranial surface of the sphenoid bone. This structure is commonly observed on lateral cephalograms, frequently employed for orthodontic diagnosis. The Cephalometric radiographs utilize various landmarks as reference points to examine craniofacial structures and Sella Turcica (ST) is the most significant and reliable cranial landmark. The Sella point, located at the midpoint of the ST structure, is a cranial base point that accommodates the pituitary gland. The cephalometric analysis relies on this factor to identify pituitary gland-related pathologies, making it a valuable source of information for craniofacial syndromes. Facial structure development exhibits comparable characteristics to the Sella turcica. Glandular abnormalities possess the potential to be linked to functional disorders, which can result in altered hormonal levels affecting dental growth. Comprehensive understanding of the radiological anatomy and variations help assess growth and identify changes in various anomalies or pathological conditions. Additionally, it can assist in predicting the potential outcome of orthodontic treatment. The objective of this review is to determine and update whether a correlation exists between the bridging of Sella turcica and various dental anomalies related to the shape, size, structure, number, and eruption of teeth. In conclusion, it was noted that Sella turcica bridging is frequently observed in orthodontic patients measuring a clear correlation between dental anomalies and Sella bridging.

Keywords: Sella Turcica Bridging; Dental Anomalies; Genetics; Lateral Cephalogram; Orthodontist.

References:

[1] Gracco AL, Zanatta S, Forin Valvecchi F, Bignotti D, Perri A, Baciliero F. Prevalence of dental agenesis in a sample of Italian orthodontic patients: an epidemiological study. Progress in orthodontics. 2017; 18:1-7.

[2] MacDonald D, Patel A, Zou B, Yen E, Vora SR. A retrospective study of incidental findings occurring in a consecutive case series of lateral cephalograms of 12- to 20-year-old patients referred for routine orthodontic treatment. Imaging Sci Dent. 2022; 52:295-302;10.5624/isd.20220402.

[3] Seifeldin N, Eltimamy A, Abbady NA. Sella turcica variations in patients with transverse skeletal discrepancies versus patients with normal transverse relationships. a cross- sectional study. BMC Oral Health. 2023;23:301;10.1186/s12903-023-02988-y.

[4] Al-Ani AH, Antoun JS, Thomson WM, Merriman TR, Farella M. Hypodontia: An Update on Its Etiology, Classification, and Clinical Management. Biomed Res Int. 2017;2017:9378325;10.1155/2017/9378325.

[5] Alkofide EA. The shape and size of the sella turcica in skeletal Class I, Class II, and Class III Saudi subjects. The European Journal of Orthodontics. 2007;29:457-63.

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Abstract:

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the morbillivirus of which humans are the only reservoir. Our descriptive study aims at analyzing retrospective measles surveillance data from 2022. Of the 2037 suspected measles case samples received at the laboratory, 784 (38%) were confirmed. The age group of 1-4 years is the most affected with an attack rate of 25.43 per 100,000 inhabitants. Children under 5 represent 47.71% of cases. The median age is 4 years and the average age 6.14 years (0 months-54 years). The male sex represents 51% of cases with a sex ratio of 1.06 and an attack rate of 9.72 per 100,000 inhabitants. Most confirmed measles cases (71.77%) were recorded during the dry season. The districts of Koutiala (140 cases: 17.85%), Sikasso (127 cases: 16.19%), Ségou (109 cases: 13.09%) and Bougouni (98 cases: 12.5%) record the most case. The average time for feedback from the laboratory was 3.95 days. Moreover, among the 1253 sample cases negative for measles, 8.22% were positive for rubella. The median age of patients was 6 years. Children under five are the most affected. Most of these cases are in unvaccinated people. The establishment of an enhanced vaccination program at country level considering the most affected groups could reduce the resurgence of measles epidemics.

Keywords: Epidemic, Measles, Mali, Notifiable disease (MADO), Spatiotemporal.

References:

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Abstract:

Namibia has an adult HIV prevalence of 12.6% according to the Namibia population-based HIV impact assessment survey of 2017 making it one of the highest in the world. Early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has excellent outcomes for both morbidity and mortality. The National Strategic Framework for HIV and the Namibia Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) rolled out the WHO 2015 UTTS guidelines making Namibia one of the first African countries to implement UTTS. With UTTS guidelines, rolled out in October 2016, clients who test HIV positive are initiated on ART immediately preferably the same day or within seven days regardless of their HIV clinical stage or CD4 count. Retention in care is required for optimal clinical outcomes in patients with HIV infection. However, after two years of adopting the strategy, it is not well understood whether UTTS affects the retention to care. We therefore sought to establish any emerging differences in retention of ART care after the implementation of UTTS. We used a retrospective cohort review study design that employed both quantitative and qualitative methods. 879 client records were reviewed, 678 clients were initiated on treatment two years prior to the UTTS and 201 were initiated after January 2017 when the UTTS was fully rolled out and had been on treatment for at least 12 months. Data analysis was done using Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 software. The overall retention after 12 months of follow-up was (822/879) 93.5% (95% CI: 91.3% to 95.7%). The retention rate at 12 months among clients in the UTTS cohort was 95.5% (95% CI: 93.5% to 97.5%) and somewhat higher than that in the pre-UTTS cohort 92.9% (95% CI: 90.6% to 95.2%). At the end of the review period, attrition was higher in the pre-UTTS cohort 251/678 (37.0%; 95% CI 34.8 to 39.2) versus 42/201 (21.0%; 95% CI 19.0 to 23) during UTTS. Retention on ART was nearly 5% higher after UTTS implementation but young adults and men between 31 and 40 years of age had higher chances of attrition at the time of ART initiation. We recommend that all facilities in Namibia and other parts of sub-Saharan Africa should embrace the UTTS strategy to benefit their clients.

Keywords: Antiretroviral therapy, Retention, Retrospective cohort review, Universal test & treat.

References:

[1] Namibia Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment, 2016-2017 https://phia.icap.columbia.edu/wp/content/uploads/2018/10/NAMPHIA-pdf.

[2] Namibia National Guideline for Antiretroviral Therapy 2016: https://aidsfree.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/na_national_guidelines_art.Pdf.

[3] World Health Organization. Consolidated guidelines on the use of antiretroviral drugs for treating and preventing HIV infection. 2018: http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/10665/208825/1/.

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[9] Mugavero MJ, Lin HY, Willig JH, Westfall AO, Ulett KB, Routman JS, et al. Missed visits and mortality among patients establishing initial outpatient HIV treatment. Clin Infect Dis. 2009; 48(2):248–56.

[10] Alhaj Mohammad, Amberbir Alemayehu, Singogo Emmanuel Banda Victor, Lettow Monique, Matengeni, Alfred (2019) et al. Retention on antiretroviral therapy during Universal Test and Treat implementation in Zomba district, Malawi: a retrospective cohort study. Journal of the International AIDS Society. 22. e25239. 10.1002/jia2.25239.

[11] McCreesh N, Andrianakis I, Nsubuga RN, Strong M, Vernon I, McKinley TJ, et al. Universal test, treat, and keep improving ART retention is key in cost effective HIV control in Uganda. BMC Infect Dis. 2017; 17(1):322.

[12] Brown LB, Havlir DV, Ayieko J, Mwangwa F, Owaraganise A, Kwarisiima D, High levels of retention in care with streamlined care and Universal Test and Treat in East Africa. AIDS. 2016; 30(18):2855–64.

[13] Dodd PJ, Garnett GP, Hallett TB. Examining the promise of HIV elimination by ‘test and treat’ in hyper-endemic settings. AIDS. 2010;24(5):729.

[14] Bigna JJ, Plottel CS, Koulla-Shiro S. Challenges in initiating antiretroviral therapy for all HIV-infected people regardless of CD4 cell count. Infect Dis Poverty. 2016;5(1):85.

[15] Hayes R, Sabapathy K, Fidler S. Universal testing, and treatment as an HIV prevention strategy: research questions and methods. Curr HIV Res. 2011;9 (6):429–45.

[16] Brown LB, Ayieko J, Mwangwa F, Owaraganise A, Kwarisiima D, Jain V, et al. Predictors of retention in HIV care among youth (15–24) in a Universal Test-and-Treat setting in Rural Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2017;76 (1): e15–8.

[17] Wolf HT, Halpern-Felsher BL, Bukusi EA, Agot KE, Cohen CR, Auerswald CL. “It is all about the fear of being discriminated [against]. . . the person suffering from HIV will not be accepted”: a qualitative study exploring the reasons for loss to follow-up among HIV-positive youth in Kisumu, Kenya. BMC Public Health. 2014; 14:1154.

[18] MacKenzie RK, Lettow M, Gondwe C, Nyirongo J, Singano V, Banda V, et al. Greater retention in care among adolescents on antiretroviral treatment accessing “Teen Club” an adolescent-centred differentiated care model compared with standard of care: a nested case–control study at a tertiary referral hospital in Malawi. J Int AIDS Soc. 2017;20(3): e25028.

[19] Tweya H, Gugsa S, Hosseinipour M, Speight C, Ng’ambi W, Bokosi M, et al. Understanding factors, outcomes, and reasons for loss to follow-up among women in Option B+ PMTCT programme in Lilongwe, Malawi. Trop Med Int Health. 2014;19(11):1360–6.

[20] Chan AK, Kanike E, Bedell R, Mayuni I, Manyera R, Mlotha W, et al. Same day HIV diagnosis and antiretroviral therapy initiation affects retention in Option B+ prevention of mother-to-child transmission services at antenatal care in Zomba District, Malawi. J Int AIDS Soc. 2016;19(1):20672.

[21] Lettow M, Bedell R, Mayuni I, Mateyu G, Landes M, Chan AK, et al. Towards elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV: performance of different models of care for initiating lifelong antiretroviral therapy for pregnant women in Malawi (Option B+). J Int AIDS Soc. 2014;17(1):18994.

[22] Jasseron C, Mandelbrot L, Dollfus C, Trocm e N, Tubiana R, Teglas JP, et al. non-disclosure of a pregnant woman’s HIV status to her partner is associated with non-optimal prevention of mother-to-child transmission. AIDS Behav. 2013; 17(2):488–97.

Abstract:

Although the growing increase of AMR is a major problem everywhere, developing nations like Sierra Leone are particularly at higher risk because of their limited resources to combat the problem. Medical Professionals are recognized as important determinants of antimicrobial abuse. To evaluate factors related to antimicrobial resistance patterns, a cross-sectional study was undertaken among 376 Medical Professionals. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory Personnel and community health officer from three Sierra Leone University Teaching Hospital Complexes in Sierra Leone, formed the study population. KAP dimensions were assessed, and differences between groups were investigated, using descriptive statistics tests. The study highlighted the socio-demographic factors of health professionals (age, gender, profession, qualification, and years of experience) that were associated with antibiotic resistance training (p < 0.05). In the area of attitude towards antibiotics, 54% (203) and 72.9% (274) of study participants recommended that pharmacy staff be at their workstations to deliver services and dispense antibiotics prescribed by authorized prescribers as recommended by the Ministry of Health. Out of the total survey participants, 54.5% suggested antibiotics for laboratory-confirmed diseases. To prevent antibiotic resistance, 72.9% of survey participants advised patients to finish antibiotics. This study revealed the need for pharmacy staff to always be available to provide services and dispense antibiotics. Healthcare professionals must be monitored to combat AMR. More research is needed to understand and improve antibiotic stewardship practices in Sierra Leone.

Keywords: Antibiotic, Attitude, Knowledge, Practice, Resistance.

References:

[1] World Health Organization. Antimicrobial resistance: global report on surveillance [Internet]. World Health Organization; 2014 [cited 2023 Jul 22]. xxii, 232 p. Available from: https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/112642.
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[7] Kariuki S, Kering K, Wairimu C, Onsare R, Mbae C. Antimicrobial Resistance Rates and Surveillance in Sub-Saharan Africa: Where Are We Now? Infect Drug Resist. 2022 Jul 7; 15:3589–609.
[8] World Health Organization. Worldwide country situation analysis: response to antimicrobial resistance [Internet]. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2015 [cited 2021 Dec 9]. 42 p. Available from: https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/163468.
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[10] Hu Y, Wang X, Tucker JD, Little P, Moore M, Fukuda K, et al. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice with Respect to Antibiotic Use among Chinese Medical Students: A Multicentre Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2018 Jun;15(6):1165.
[11] Davey P, Marwick CA, Scott CL, Charani E, McNeil K, Brown E, et al. Interventions to improve antibiotic prescribing practices for hospital inpatients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017 Feb 9;2017(2):CD003543.
[12] Prestinaci F, Pezzotti P, Pantosti A. Antimicrobial resistance: a global multifaceted phenomenon. Pathog Glob Health. 2015 Oct;109(7):309–18.
[13] Lakoh S, John-Cole V, Luke RDC, Bell N, Russell JBW, Mustapha A, et al. Antibiotic use and consumption in Freetown, Sierra Leone: A baseline report of prescription stewardship in outpatient clinics of three tertiary hospitals. IJID Reg. 2023 Feb 20; 7:43–51.
[14] Barchitta M, Sabbatucci M, Furiozzi F, Iannazzo S, Maugeri A, Maraglino F, et al. Knowledge, attitudes and behaviors on antibiotic use and resistance among healthcare workers in Italy, 2019: investigation by a clustering method. Antimicrobial Resistance & Infection Control. 2021 Sep 10;10(1):134.
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Abstract:

Musculoskeletal pain (MSK) disorder is considered one of the prime causes of severe long-term pain and physical disabilities acquired globally. Ghanaians especially, farmers have to go through vigorous physical farm activities to achieve desired output of farm activities. In the Volta Region, MSK pain has ranked among the top three reported cases at the Ho Teaching Hospital. Whilst, the quantum of reported cases is known, and treated at the hospital, the actual causes are not. Coupled with the fact that prevalence and probably the causes would differ from profession to profession the proposed research is aimed at addressing this among farmers. The overall goal of the study was to determine the prevalence and causes of MSK pain among farmers in the Volta Region of Ghana. 212 farmers were randomly selected for the study. Cross-sectional surveys were carried out to obtain the demographic and socio-economic status of the patients consenting to participate in the studies. Both, qualitative and quantitative statistical methods were employed to determine any association between the farming methods, tools used and the type of MSK pains. The most prevalent locations of MSK pain among farmers were the lower back, upper back, right and left knees. The possible causes of MSK pain reported by farmers in the Volta Region were by walking or by other transportation (riding bicycles and motorbikes) or using implements such as cutlass, hoe and spraying machine.

Keywords: Ghana, Farmers, Farming practices, Lower Back Pain, Disability-Adjusted Life Years, Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorder, Musculoskeletal pains.

References:

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Abstract:

The post-training follow-up of actors is undeniable for an effective and efficient implementation of community surveillance activities (SEBAC). We evaluated the supervision data from the three SEBAC health districts (Kadiolo, Kati and Kangaba). The variables analyzed are as follows: The percentage of CHWs mastering the case definitions: in Kati (100%), Kangaba (82.87%) and Kadiolo (71.97%). Next, knowledge of coding: at Kati 99.18%, Kadiolo 95.62% and Kangaba 84.08%. Regarding the number of notified cases: in Kadiolo 124 cases (36%), Kati 123 (35.8%) cases and Kangaba 97 cases (28.2%). Also, for the filling of the notification and score registers: at Kati 99.18% and 100%, Kadiolo 86.18% and 86.18% and Kangaba 82.12% and 80%. As for investigations, the three districts have a parity rate of 100%; for home visits, Kati has a rate of 100%, followed by Kadiolo 95.23% and Kangaba 92.80%. Also, for the number of CHWs having sent at least one SMS: Kati 100%, Kadiolo 98.52% and Kangaba 91.50%. Finally, for data completeness, Kangaba district has 85.68%, Kadiolo 71.56% and Kati 48.91%. Post-training supervision is an effective means for building capacity in the implementation of activities, correcting shortcomings, and a source of motivation for actors.

Keywords: Supervision, community-based surveillance, post-training follow-up, SEBAC, CHW.

References:

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Abstract:

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a global security threat that poses a significant risk to humanity. Addressing AMR requires effective organizations and processes. This study investigates the systems and structures that may contribute to tackling AMR in three Sierra Leonean University Teaching Hospital Complexes.The hospitals were selected based on their high patient load and availability of laboratory facilities for AMR testing, pharmaceuticals, and infection prevention and control (IPC) programs. Healthcare administrators and unit leaders were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. The reliability of the questionnaires was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The questionnaire was pretested to ensure its validity and reliability. The findings indicate that nurses constitute a significant portion of the health workforce in the three institutions. PCMH Hospital showed the best monitoring system, covering 78% of the essential components, including, IPC guidelines, antibiotic stock verification and waste and antibiotic disposal monitoring. Connaught Hospital also met 56% of these requirements. The study showed a significant correlation between hospital bed capacity and the average patient volume (p < 0.05), with higher bed capacities resulting in higher patient volume. In addition, the correlation analysis revealed a significant association between effective monitoring mechanisms and the presence of an antibiotic stewardship program (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the availability of laboratory departments significantly influenced microbiological culture and sensitivity testing capabilities (p < 0.05), with a higher number of departments resulting in more efficient microbiological testing for antibiotic resistance. This study highlights the importance of enhancing the systems and structures of hospitals, to effectively combat AMR.

Keywords : Antimicrobial, Resistance, Structures, Systems, University Teaching Hospital.

References:

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[10] Kanu JS, Khogali M, Hann K, Tao W, Barlatt S, Komeh J, et al. National Antibiotic Consumption for Human Use in Sierra Leone (2017–2019) : A Cross-Sectional Study. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease. 2021 Jun ;6(2) :77.

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[13] Lakoh S, John-Cole V, Luke RDC, Bell N, Russell JBW, Mustapha A, et al. Antibiotic use and consumption in Freetown, Sierra Leone : A baseline report of prescription stewardship in outpatient clinics of three tertiary hospitals. IJID Reg. 2023 Feb 20 ;7 :43–51.

[14] Kanu JS, Khogali M, Hann K, Tao W, Barlatt S, Komeh J, et al. National Antibiotic Consumption for Human Use in Sierra Leone (2017–2019) : A Cross-Sectional Study. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease. 2021 Jun ;6(2) :77.

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Abstract:

In the face of coronavirus disease pandemic, adherence to public health measures largely influences their effectiveness in containing the spread. Four specific objectives guided this study: (i) Assess whether individuals are adhering to the COVID-19 preventive measures promoted by Ethiopian government; (ii) Examine the heterogeneity in adoption of preventive measures in Ethiopia; (iii) Identify the factors affecting adherence to preventive measures-based health belief model; and (iv) Examine the moderating effects of socio-economic factors on the relationship between adherence to preventive measures and HBM factors. The study relied on a nationally representative cross-sectional survey commissioned by the World Health Organization in 2021 for Ethiopia. Data was collected from 895 individuals aged 18 years of age or older. Analysis applied several methods including the Multiple Correspondence Analysis, Univariate analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, cluster analysis and multiple regression analysis. Using face masks and washing hands were the most frequently practiced preventive measures. The regression analysis indicated that perceived severity, perceived barriers, and cues to action showed a significant association with adherence at p >0.05. Furthermore, socio-economic factors have a moderating role on adherence to preventive measures and HBM factors. Effective promotion and adoption of preventive measures require addressing individuals' perceptions of severity and benefits while minimizing barriers and providing clear cues to action. Additionally, specific preventive measures that require ongoing effort and habit development may face challenges in adoption. Tailoring interventions can help overcome these challenges and encourage the widespread adoption of preventive measures to curtail the spread.

Keywords: Coronavirus disease - 2019, Prevention, Health belief model.

References:

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Abstract:

The incidence of musculoskeletal (MSK) pain among farmers in Ghana is high. In the Volta Region, where the proposed research was conducted, MSK pain is among the top three most reported cases at the Ho Teaching Hospital. While the number of cases is known and treated at the hospital, the root causes are not. The proposed study investigated the effects of MSK pain on the quality of life (QoL) of farmers in the Region, to determine whether the age and sex of farmers in the Volta Region have any relationship with QoL, and to determine whether their knowledge about MSD and QoL was adequate to inform on its management. A total of 212 farmers were selected for the study without any particular order. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted to obtain the demographic and socioeconomic status of the participants. Both qualitative and quantitative statistical methods were used to determine the impact of MSK pain on QoL, the relationship between age/sex and QoL and if the farmers in the Volta Region think they have enough knowledge about their MSDs and are confident in managing them. The study found that the QoL among the farmers was very low. The farmers' QoL was below the average grouped quality of life and about 26.5% can be said to be clearly above the average grouped quality of life. MSK pains have had a huge toll on the quality of life of Volta Region farmers affecting about 73.5% of the respondent farmers.

Keywords: DALY, HRQoL, NMQ, MSK-HQ, MSK, Musculoskeletal pain, Quality of Life, Farmers in Ghana.

References:

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Abstract:

Globally over 10.4 million people fell ill with TB, of which 1.7 million died from the disease in 2016. And in the same year, 40% of HIV deaths were due to TB. 95% of TB deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, and Namibia has one of the highest case notification rates (CNR) of TB in the world. Tuberculosis Presumptive Therapy (TPT) treats latent TB infection, and this reduces the likelihood that active TB disease will develop. Whereas Namibia adopted TPT use for PLHIV in 2005, the national coverage has remained low and was estimated to be 35% in June 2018, and specifically at 42% for Okahao, ART Clinic. We therefore designed a quality improvement project to scale up the uptake of TPT at this clinic. We used both quantitative and qualitative methods. We conducted health education sessions daily for 15 minutes, and patients were taught about TPT. Three categories of clients were registered according to those who suggested TPT initiation. Category one (C1) were those where a clinician suggested TPT, Category two (C2) by the client themselves and category three (C3) by data administrators. We analyzed data using simple excel spread sheets as either trend graphs or pie charts. Category two had more clients started on TPT (n=1,609, 58.3%). TPT coverage within the backlog cohort improved from 42% to 94%, and for the new cohort, coverage increased from 81% to 100%. 13 clients (64%) reported skin related manifestations as side effects. Daily health education about TPT in HIV care settings improves uptake.

Keywords: TB Presumptive Therapy (TPT), Uptake, HIV positive, Quality improvement project.

References:

[1] R. Wood and L-G Bekker. (2014) Isoniazid preventive therapy for tuberculosis in South Africa: An assessment of the local evidence base. South Africa Medical Journal 104(3):174-177. DOI: 10.7196/SAMJ.7968.

[2] Danyuttapolchai J, Kittimunkong S, Nateniyom S, Painujit S, Klinbuayaem V, Maipanich N, et al. (2017) Implementing an isoniazid preventive therapy program for people living with HIV in Thailand. PLoS ONE 12(9): e0184986. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0184986.

[3] Ayele et al. (2015) Effect of isoniazid preventive therapy on tuberculosis or death in persons with HIV: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Infectious Diseases 15:334 DOI 10.1186/s12879-015-1089-3.

[4] N. P. Spyridis, P. G. Spyridis et al. (2007) The Effectiveness of a 9-Month Regimen of Isoniazid Alone versus 3- and 4-Month Regimens of Isoniazid plus Rifampin for Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Children: Results of an 11-Year Randomized Study. Clinical Infectious Diseases; 45:715–22

[5] S. M. Hermans, A. D. Grant, et al. (2016) The timing of tuberculosis after isoniazid preventive therapy among gold miners in South Africa: a prospective cohort study. BMC Medicine 14:45 DOI 10.1186/s12916-016-0589-3.

[6] Namibia Population6-Based HIV Impact Assessment, 2016-2017: https://phia.icap.columbia.edu/wpcontent/uploads/2018/10/NAMPHIA-pdf.

[7] Namibia7 National Guideline for Antiretroviral Therapy 2016: https://aidsfree.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/na_national_guidelines_art.Pdf.

[8] C. Padmapriyadarsini8, M. Das, et al. (2018) Is Chemoprophylaxis for Child Contacts of Drug-Resistant TB Patients Beneficial? A Systematic Review. Tuberculosis Research and Treatment, Article ID 3905890, 8 pages. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/3905890.

[9] Thomas R. Frieden9, Harold W. Jaffe, et al. (2011) Recommendations for Use of an Isoniazid-Rifapentine Regimen with Direct Observation to Treat Latent Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Infection. CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 60:48.

[10] Lauren Hart10. (2011) Isoniazid Preventive Therapy for the Prevention of Tuberculosis in People Living with HIV/AIDS. Moving Evidence into Action.www.FHI360.org.

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[13] Basenero A, Kaliba S (2020); Using a Quality Improvement Collaborative Approach to Improve Tuberculosis prevention therapy coverage in the Kavango region, Namibia.

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Abstract:

Zimbabwe continues to record new COVID-19 cases as is the case in other countries. Although the Ministry of Health in Zimbabwe continues to publish daily situation reports (SitRep), and regular surveillance updates, no review of existing data has been done to establish the regional trends of the disease over time. This desk review study seeks to analyze the trends (province by province) of the COVID-19 in Zimbabwe for year 2020 in order to establish if spatial variations in infection rates and deaths exist. Ultimately, the aim is to come up with appropriate context-specific prevention and control measures. The study also seeks to establish whether or not there is a difference in COVID-19 infection rates and deaths between urban and rural provinces of Zimbabwe. A historical research design that made use of available secondary data on COVID-19 in Zimbabwe was used. COVID-19 statistics for year 2020 as provided by the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care were accessed from the website and reviewed. A hypothesis test to determine if there was a difference in COVID-19 attack rates between urban and rural provinces of Zimbabwe was also done. An independent samples t-test using Microsoft excel was done on cumulative COVID-19 cases data for the entire year 2020. The study revealed that spatial variations in COVID-19 infections and deaths between urban and rural provinces of Zimbabwe existed. Urban provinces recorded more COVID-19 cases in 2020 compared to rural provinces.

Keywords: COVID-19, Infection rate, Psychological distress, Spatial, Variations, Vaccine hesitancy.

References:

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[4] Government of Zimbabwe, Ministry of Health and Child Care, COVID 19 Daily Updates retrieved from http://www.mohcc.gov.zw/index.php?option=com_phocadownload&view=category&id=15&Itemid=741&limitstart=20.

[5] Zimbabwe COVID-19 Situation Report, Issue No 10 31032020 Issue No 10 Zimbabwe COVID-19 Sitrep.pdf.

[6] Murewanhema, G., & Makurumidze, R., 2020, Essential health services delivery in Zimbabwe during the COVID-19 pandemic: perspectives and recommendations. Pan Afr Med J. 2020 Aug 11;35(Suppl 2):143. doi: 10.11604/pamj.supp.2020.35.143.25367. PMID: 33193958; PMCID: PMC7608772.

[7] World Health Organization. Guidance Document for a Differentiated Response to COVID-19 Outbreak in Urban and Rural settings 2021 Retrieved from https://www.afro.who.int/sites/default/files/Covid-19/Techinical%20documents/Guidance%20Document%20for%20a%20Differentiated%20Response%20to%20COVID-19%20Outbreak%20in%20Urban%20and%20Rural%20settings.pdf.

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[9] Desmet, K., & Wacziarg, R., 2020, Understanding Spatial Variation in COVID-19 across the United States National Bureau of Economic Research ,1050 Massachusetts, MA 02138 June 2020, https://www.nber.org/system/files/working_papers/w27329/revisions/w27329.rev0.pdf.

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[15] Cuadros, D.F., Branscum, A.J., Mukandavire, Z., Miller, F.D., MacKinnon, N., 2021, Dynamics of the COVID-19 epidemic in urban and rural areas in the United States. Ann Epidemiol. 2021 Jul; 59:16-20. doi: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2021.04.007. Epub 2021 Apr 22. PMID: 33894385; PMCID: PMC8061094, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8061094/.

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Abstract:

Numerous microbes found in household toothbrushes can lead to contamination of the oral cavity. These microorganisms can survive on the toothbrush for several days or weeks. Several studies have found a link between tooth decay and toothbrush bacterial residues. As a result, toothbrush disinfection is critical for toothbrush and oral hygiene maintenance. Furthermore, brush disinfection is required to prevent disease transmission, especially in children, the elderly, and high-risk patients, such as those with immunodeficiency or undergoing organ transplants or chemotherapy. This paper aims to analyse various methods of decontaminating toothbrushes. Numerous techniques have been discussed in the literature regarding decontamination of toothbrushes between uses. However, no single completely efficacious technique has been found to the said effect. Therefore, the search is still on for a rapidly effective, cost-effective, nontoxic, and easily implementable suitable alternative.
Keywords: Chemical, Contamination, Decontamination, Physical, Toothbrush.

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