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Research Article
Malaria Parasitaemia, Risk Perception, and Preventive Practices Among Women Attending Ante-Natal Clinics in Ogun State
Hakeem Abiola Yusuff*,
Ikeoluwapo Ajayi,
Stephen Adebowale,
Olufemi Ajumobi,
Patrick Nguku,
Quudus Yusuff
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, April 2024
Pages:
59-70
Received:
17 January 2024
Accepted:
14 February 2024
Published:
7 March 2024
Abstract: Malaria contributes over 10% of all deaths among pregnant women. The prevalence of malaria in pregnancy in Nigeria particularly in Ogun State is high. The coverage and uptake of Intermittent Preventive Treatment with Sulphodoxine Pyrimethamine (IPT-SP) and Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) in Southwest Nigeria is still very low despite their proven cost effectiveness in improving maternal and infant health. This study therefore determined the malaria parasitaemia, risk perception, preventive practices and associated factors among women attending Ante-natal Clinics (ANCs) in Ogun state. A cross-sectional study was carried out using mixed methods. An estimated sample size of 426 was computed and selected from ANCs across the state through multistage sampling technique. Pre-tested semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect information. Also, focused group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among women attending ANC and blood samples were taken from asymptomatic women for laboratory analysis to determine prevalence of malaria parasitaemia. Measures of association between the dependent and independent variables were tested using Chi-square. All tests of significance were done based on a ɑ-level of 0.05. Response rate was 100% for this study. The mean age of respondents was 27.9 ±5.5 years. Risk perception of malaria was observed to be good. Malaria parasitaemia was 2.7% and was 100% due to Plasmodium falciparum. Maternal age was significantly associated with malaria parasitaemia. Therefore, it is recommended that malaria elimination programmes should be sustained; access and affordability of ANC care should be ensured by the Government.
Abstract: Malaria contributes over 10% of all deaths among pregnant women. The prevalence of malaria in pregnancy in Nigeria particularly in Ogun State is high. The coverage and uptake of Intermittent Preventive Treatment with Sulphodoxine Pyrimethamine (IPT-SP) and Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) in Southwest Nigeria is still very low despite their p...
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Research Article
Oral Health Status and Care Needs of People with Intellectual Disability in Specialized Centers of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Jocelyne Valerie Gare*,
Filwende Dan Kientega,
Ahmed Kabore,
Carole Nathalie Téné Ouedraogo,
Ouattara Seydou,
Wendpoulomde Aime Desire Kabore,
Nicolas Meda
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, April 2024
Pages:
71-79
Received:
12 February 2024
Accepted:
29 February 2024
Published:
13 March 2024
Abstract: People with intellectual disabilities suffer from oral pain and discomfort twice as often as the general population. Their reduced cognitive and physical abilities, regular medication, and often the lack of a strong social support system lead to difficulties coping with the daily demands of life, including proper oral hygiene and nutrition. Having data on the oral health status of children and adolescents living with disabilities is crucial to reducing oral health inequalities within the population. The objectives of this study were to describe the main oral conditions, oral health behaviors and identify the care needs of people with intellectual disabilities in specialized centers in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. A descriptive transversal survey was conducted in the reception centers of intellectual disabled people benefiting from the subsidy of the Ministry of Women, National Solidarity, Family and Humanitarian Action. A questionnaire adapted for oral health surveys of the World Health Organization has been used for data collection that has been analyzed with Stata MP 16.0 software (College Station, Texas 77845, USA). Were included in the study 193 people with intellectual disabilities whose average age was 12.4 years ± 7.9. Our study reported that 74.0% had never visited a dentist and 19.0% of subjects did not clean their teeth. The overall prevalence of caries was 58.6% with 95% CI [51.2 - 65.8]. The frequencies of gingival bleeding and calculus were 63.8% and 63.4% respectively. The other pathologies were divided into 25.5% sialorrhea; 15.0% dental wear; 39.1% malocclusions; 19.2% dental anomalies and 14.4% dental trauma. Subjects who needed prompt and urgent care were 51.6%. This study made it possible to report the oral health behaviors and the main oral diseases encountered in people with intellectual disabilities and the care needs. Health promotion strategies focusing on simple interventions such as appropriate oral care would improve the general well-being of these vulnerable people.
Abstract: People with intellectual disabilities suffer from oral pain and discomfort twice as often as the general population. Their reduced cognitive and physical abilities, regular medication, and often the lack of a strong social support system lead to difficulties coping with the daily demands of life, including proper oral hygiene and nutrition. Having ...
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Research Article
The Association Between Leukocyte Parameters and Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Ting-yi Pu,
Man Cui,
Hao-di Li,
Xi Gao,
Ding-hua Liu*
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, April 2024
Pages:
80-89
Received:
21 February 2024
Accepted:
5 March 2024
Published:
19 March 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.cajph.20241002.13
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Abstract: Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of disorders with a high incidence which can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Chronic low-grade inflammation has been implicated in the development of metabolic syndrome. Inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein have been proved to be associated with MetS, but they are often used in disease diagnosis rather than in routine health screening. Instead, leukocyte is a convenient inflammatory marker. However, the association between leukocyte-related parameters and MetS remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association between leukocyte parameters and MetS. Materials and Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Web of Science were searched for articles published from September 2012 to September 2022 for studies on the association of leukocyte with MetS patients. Outcome data were extracted and the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. STATA software version 16.0 was utilized to conduct meta-analyses and assess publication bias. Results: A literature search of all major databases retrieved 2661 studies. After screening, 11 studies were analyzed including a total of 13301 MetS patients. Pooled analysis showed that elevated leukocyte level was significantly associated with MetS (SMD = 0.31, 95% CI (0.23-0.38), Z = 8.07, P <0.001). Conclusion: Elevated leukocyte level may be a potentially useful clinical marker for predicting the possibility of developing MetS in healthy populations.
Abstract: Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of disorders with a high incidence which can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Chronic low-grade inflammation has been implicated in the development of metabolic syndrome. Inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein have been proved to be associated...
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Review Article
From Policy to Practice: A Review of Africa’s Public Health Policy
Oche Joseph Otorkpa*,
Chinenye Oche Otorkpa,
Onifade Adefunmilola Adebola,
Stephen Emmanuel,
Ahamed Adamu,
Ololade Esther Olaniyan,
Saizonou Zinsou Jacques,
Okolo Martin Luther Oseni,
Abdirizak Mohamud Yusuf,
Maman Laminou Ibrahim,
Zakariaou Njoumemi,
Ruhaima Issah Zorro,
Francis Ngemba Kiese,
Abechi Andrew Alapa,
Dechasa Adare,
Adamu Usman Musa,
Fatima Ahmed
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, April 2024
Pages:
90-99
Received:
26 September 2023
Accepted:
20 March 2024
Published:
2 April 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.cajph.20241002.14
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Abstract: Africa faces persistent health challenges, from infectious diseases to non-communicable illnesses, necessitating robust public health policies. However, the translation of these policies into effective practice remains a substantial challenge across the continent. This study employed a rigorous literature review, and policy analysis to shed light on the multifaceted factors impeding the successful transition from policy formulation to tangible health outcomes. Findings indicates that while Africa has made substantial progress in crafting health policies that align with global health goals, critical gaps persist in their execution. Major challenges include resource limitations, weak health infrastructure, insufficient capacity building, and complex socio-cultural dynamics that influence health behaviors and practices. In addition, bureaucratic hurdles, corruption, and lack of political will are identified as systemic barriers to policy implementation. The study highlights the need for adaptive and evidence-based policy making rigorous monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress, and a multifaceted approach to bridge these gaps and address challenges. This includes strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure and workforce development, enhancing collaboration between governments and international partners, and fostering community engagement to ensure policies resonate with local contexts.
Abstract: Africa faces persistent health challenges, from infectious diseases to non-communicable illnesses, necessitating robust public health policies. However, the translation of these policies into effective practice remains a substantial challenge across the continent. This study employed a rigorous literature review, and policy analysis to shed light o...
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Research Article
Profile of Homosexuals, Bisexuals, and Transgender People in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Cross-Sectional Study
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, April 2024
Pages:
100-110
Received:
22 February 2024
Accepted:
11 March 2024
Published:
11 April 2024
Abstract: Introduction: It has been established that homosexuality plays a considerable role in the persistence of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections, but data related to their extent remains paradoxically fragmentary. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and determinants of viral infection (Human Immunodeficiency Virus and hepatic viral infections) among homosexuals, bisexuals, and transgenders in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Methods: Between February 1 and March 30, 2022, an analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among Kinshasa's homosexual, bisexual, and transgender populations. The snowball method was used to choose participants from homosexuals’ organisations. Sociodemographic information and the prevalence of viral infections (HIV, HBV, and HCV) were included as study parameters. The determinants of viral infections were found using multivariate logistic regression. Results: A total of 555 participants (mean age: 28.5±7.8 years, unmarried: 44.9%) were enrolled. Human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C infection rates were, respectively, 31.5%, 6.3%, and 9.7% prevalent. HIV-HCV, HIV-HBV, and HIV-HBV-HCV coinfection rates were 4.7%, 4.1%, and 0.7%, respectively. HIV and HBV infection had the same risk factors namely piercing, incarceration, prostitution, and non-condom usage. HCV infection was more pronounced among individuals with piercing, STIs and a previous occurrence of jaundice. Conclusion: In Kinshasa, HIV, HBV, and HCV infections were widespread among homosexuals, bisexuals, and transgender people. Actions targeting LBGTs are essential to reduce HIV, HCV and HBV infections transmission in the community.
Abstract: Introduction: It has been established that homosexuality plays a considerable role in the persistence of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections, but data related to their extent remains paradoxically fragmentary. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and determinant...
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