Pan-African Journal of Health and Environmental Science

Knowledge, Practices, and Attitudes towards Breast Cancer Prevention among Church Members in Silang, Philippines

2023-10-28T22:37:08+00:00

Background: Breast cancer remains a significant public health concern, making prevention strategies crucial. This study assessed women’s knowledge, practices, and attitudes towards breast cancer prevention.

Methods: A quantitative survey using a one-group pre-test and post-test design was conducted.

Results: The results showed that the women surveyed had a good level of knowledge about breast cancer and its risk factors. However, they lacked knowledge about healthy food choices, serving portions, and recommended caloric intake. Despite their positive attitudes towards mammogram screenings, many women did not engage in regular screenings. Factors such as fear, inconvenience, and lack of access to healthcare resources hindered the translation of positive attitudes into action.

Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice in breast cancer prevention. Educational initiatives, improved access to mammogram screenings, and efforts to alleviate fear and inconvenience barriers can enhance the effectiveness of preventive measures in reducing breast cancer morbidity and mortality.

Phytochemical Screening and Medicinal Importance of Caylusea Abyssinica Root Bark Extracts

2023-09-07T01:45:50+00:00

Background: Herbal plants contain important substances termed phytochemicals. Phytochemicals occur naturally in herbal plants as secondary metabolites with vital properties, such as antibiotics. Recently, there has been a keen focus on herbal plants such as Caylusea abyssinica because of their ability to cure diseases and conditions that are challenging to modern medicine; hence, they are relevant to human health today. This study was conducted to screen the phytochemicals of Caylusea abyssinica and explain their medical significance.

Methods: GC-MS and LC-MS were used to determine the phytochemicals extracted from the root bark of Caylusea abyssinica. Root bark samples were extracted using hexane solvent and analyzed using chromatographic methods.

Results: Using GC-MS/LC-MS and solvent extraction, 16 new phytochemicals were identified. The phytochemicals are Methyl benzoate, imine, benzaldehyde, O-methyloxime, o-xylene-α,α’-dithiol, benzene, (ethenylsulfinyl), ethanone, 1-phenyl-oxime, benzene-ethanamine, N-(1-methyl ethylidene), aziridine, 2,3-dimethyl-1- (phenylmethyl)-, trans, benzyl 2-pyrrolidinecarboxylate, diphenyl(2-pyrrolidinyl) methanol, pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid, methylphenylamide, 2-isothyl ocyanatoethyl, N,N’-diphenethylthiourea, methyl-2-isothiocyanato-3-phenylpropionate, ethylbenzene, 4-benzyloxy-phenylacetonitrile and 1,3,5-cycloheptatriene, 7-ethyl. This study demonstrates the medical importance of phytochemicals.

Conclusion: Cyalusea abyssinica is an essential herb that is rich in various medically important phytochemicals.

Challenges Faced by Breastfeeding Mothers in Kenya and Lessons Learnt

2023-10-18T06:37:23+00:00

This article aims to explore the challenges faced by Kenyan mothers in breastfeeding and provide valuable lessons for fathers and other stakeholders. By understanding the unique circumstances and preferences of Kenyan mothers, we can promote effective co-parenting and support systems. The purpose of this study is to investigate the challenges and needs of Kenyan mothers in breastfeeding and provide guidance for fathers, healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in supporting breastfeeding in Kenya. Based on existing literature sourced from PUBMED and Google Scholar, relevant papers were reviewed. Cultural, socioeconomic and maternal well-being breastfeeding challenges were synthesized and presented. The major factors influencing WHO breastfeeding recommendations in Kenya are socioeconomic factors and cultural factors. Integrated promotion and intervention strategies that aim at achieving optimal breastfeeding recommendations and practices in the country are needed. Kenyan women need support from the fathers of the babies, healthcare workers, the community, and relevant policymakers. Fathers need to be educated more on breastfeeding in order to support mothers, and access to lactation support needs to be improved at healthcare facilities and workplaces.

COVID-19’s Healthcare Economic Struggles: A Looming Crisis in Hospitals with Growing Online Crime Threats

2023-10-05T10:32:48+00:00

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has led to unprecedented challenges in healthcare systems worldwide, leading to significant economic strain and a surge in technological reliance. This heightened dependence on technology, including Internet of Things (IoT) medical devices, has introduced new risks, particularly regarding cyber threats that can disrupt healthcare services and present clinical challenges. Hospital management became more critical and sensitive in the face of the highly infectious nature of COVID-19. This study explored the intersection of healthcare, technology, and cybersecurity during the pandemic.

Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design, surveys were distributed to 20 healthcare workers, and international news media reports were analyzed to gather insights into the challenges faced by hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results: The results highlight the economic challenges faced by the healthcare sector during the pandemic and subsequent surge in technological adoption. Significant cyber risks are associated with the use of technology, particularly IoT devices. Hospitals have emerged as prime targets for cybercriminal activities during the pandemic, posing a threat to health care interventions.

Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated technological integration into healthcare, presenting both opportunities and challenges. Recommendations for improved hospital management and future pandemic preparedness include implementing robust cybersecurity measures, diversifying technological solutions, and fostering awareness among health care professionals.

Assessment of the Level of Knowledge and Management Practices of Preeclampsia among Pregnant Women in Southwest Nigeria

2023-10-04T02:05:54+00:00

Background: Preeclampsia (PE) is a critical condition that poses a significant risk of maternal and fetal mortality, particularly in underdeveloped countries with limited access to health care. In such countries, the incidence of preeclampsia during pregnancy is estimated to be 10%. This study aimed to assess the understanding and management of PE care in pregnant women in Southwest Nigeria. Despite its high prevalence, there is a lack of information regarding the best management strategies for preeclampsia in the study location.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, and 331 individuals were recruited from 2,283 expectant mothers in the East Senatorial District of Osun State through a multi-stage selection process.

Results: The participants demonstrated an average knowledge score of 10.2 out of 5.0, and 47.7% had a working knowledge of preeclampsia. However, less than half of the participants (46.2%) had completed secondary school.

Conclusion: Based on these findings, it can be concluded that expectant mothers generally possess a reasonable level of knowledge regarding preeclampsia. However, this study emphasizes the importance of enhancing women’s knowledge of preeclampsia through various means such as health education in maternity hospitals, media outlets, and national education programs.

A Systematic Review on Pesticide Residue Contamination of Groundwater Coupled with Human Health Risk Assessment in Africa

2023-10-13T01:31:42+00:00

Background: Worldwide, agriculture has become dependent on the use of pesticides to boost production and meet the demand for farm products. However, pesticide use has raised concerns about their potential harm to both ecological and human health. Prompted by this concern, a systematic literature review was conducted to assess the magnitude of pesticide residue pollution of groundwater sources, coupled with health risk assessment, in Africa.

Methods: A thorough search using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) format across multiple databases, including Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar was used. Studies collected current data on groundwater pesticide residue contamination and human health risks between 2018 and September 2022.

Results: Four articles distributed at four study sites in three countries were identified. Pesticide residues were distributed as 53.2% organochlorines, 21.3% organophosphates, 17.0% pyrethroids, 4.3% carbamates, and 4.3% triazines from agricultural farms. Banned organochlorines pose both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks to humans, thus indicating a public health concern. Research gaps were observed in investigating herbicides and fungicides and the absence of pesticide limits in national water quality guidelines.

Conclusion: The study concluded that banned organochlorine residues deteriorate groundwater quality and pose human health risks via ingestion. Therefore, there is a need for future research efforts to continue monitoring while prioritizing evaluating a wide range of pesticide residues and developing national standards for context-specific thresholds. Ultimately, sustainable agriculture is promoted, and sustainable development goals are met.

Knowledge of Diabetes Risk Factors among Market Women in Orisunbare Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria

2023-10-04T01:47:37+00:00

Background: Diabetes is a life-threatening disease that has become a global threat to public health. Hence, it is a fast-growing chronic disease that affects not only diabetic patients, but also society at large. This study examined the level of knowledge about diabetes risk factors among market women in Orisunbare Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive quantitative design was conducted among 274 respondents. We used a questionnaire for data collection. A descriptive analysis was performed using frequencies and percentages, and a chi-squared test was used to determine the association between knowledge and risk factors for diabetes among the respondents.

Results: Of the 274 respondents, the majority (31.0%) were between 40-49 years with a mean age of 38. The majority of respondents (78.5%) had poor knowledge of diabetes, and as many as 71.2% had poor knowledge of risk factors associated with diabetes. Furthermore, knowledge of diabetes was significantly associated with knowledge of the risk factors associated with diabetes.

Conclusion: Knowledge of diabetes among market women in Orisunbare Osogbo, Osun State, is generally poor. Therefore, this study recommends more health education and intervention among market women in Orisunbare Osogbo, Osun State.

Faith-Based Water Sanitation and Hygiene Initiatives: Effects on Pastoral Livelihood in Marsabit County, Kenya

2023-10-22T00:49:31+00:00

Background: In Marsabit County, pastoralists face challenges such as scarce clean water, proper hygiene, inadequate sanitation, and limited socioeconomic well-being. This study assessed the effects of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives by faith-based organizations (FBOs) on pastoral livelihoods in Marsabit County. The study was guided by three objectives: To assess the extent to which faith-based organizations’ water sanitation and hygiene initiatives enhanced access to adequate safe and clean water among pastoral communities in Saku, Sub County, Marsabit County, Kenya, to evaluate the extent to which faith-based organizations’ water sanitation and hygiene initiatives enhanced changes in sanitation facilities and hygiene practices among pastoral communities in Saku Sub County, Marsabit County, Kenya and to examine the extent to which faith-based organizations’ water sanitation and hygiene initiatives enhanced food security and income generation among pastoralists in Saku Sub County, Marsabit County, Kenya.

Method: Using a stratified sampling technique, the study's target population comprised 2004 individuals and a representative sample of 323 household heads. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data from household heads. Thematic analysis was applied to explain the questionnaire responses further, incorporating qualitative data gathered from two Key Informant Interviews and two Focus Group Discussions.

Results: The main findings revealed enhanced access to safe and clean water, hygienic sanitation, food, and improved income for the targeted community.

Conclusion: This study confirmed that WASH initiatives enhanced the livelihoods of the target population. To further reinforce pastoral livelihoods, concerted interventions by the government is necessary for larger infrastructure.

Waste Minimization Factors Among Food Vendors in Manzese Ward, Dar Es Salaam

2022-12-08T01:34:45+00:00

Background: This study was conducted in the Manzese Ward, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. The objectives were to identify the individual and institutional factors associated with waste minimization among food vendors, determine the level of waste minimization among food vendors, and investigate the association between related factors (individual and institutional factors) and waste minimization among food vendors.

Methods: Quantitative data collection strategies were used. The study collected data from 234 participants, selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate analyses, and a multivariate ordinal logistic model was fitted.

Results: The results show that most vendors are young (less than 35 years old), have basic education, and have a positive attitude toward waste minimization. The most significant factors for waste minimization among the food vendors’ working in Manzese Ward were education level (AOR= 35; 95% CI: 69-0.70; p=029), monthly income (AOR= 49; 95% CI: 20-12; p=118), knowledge level (AOR= 36; 95% CI; 15-85; p<0.003), and attitude (AOR=17; 95% CI: 69-42; p<0.001). These factors are important for reducing waste and maintaining a low waste production by food vendors.

Conclusion: The levels of income, knowledge, and attitude of the vendors were identified as being crucial factors in minimizing waste. While provision of equipment for waste segregation, collection and removal, and the provision of sanitary facilities were identified as being important institutional factors contributing towards minimizing of waste.

An Interrupted Time Series Analysis Using Segmented Regression in Evaluating the Efficacy of Public Health Interventions in Kilifi County

2023-10-11T15:13:34+00:00

Background: Public health interventions may affect a variety of health outcomes. This study developed an Interrupted Time Series model to test its efficacy in evaluating public health interventions. The developed model can be used to forecast future trends in interventions to curb pneumonia.

Methods: This study utilized interrupted time-series analysis (ITS) as the study design. The study population comprised children between two months and five years admitted to Kilifi County Hospital from May 2007 to March 2020. The population included a cohort that received the PCV10 vaccine that was introduced in January 2011 for three months.

Results: The study findings indicated a downward trajectory with regard to the number of pneumonia cases reported. Further, the segmented regression results show that the intercept (β0) = 823.16, coefficient estimate of time (β1) = -2.72, coefficient estimate of PCV10 intervention (β2) = 59.63, and the coefficient estimate of the time after PCV10 intervention (β3) = -6.03. In addition, the results showed that during the post-intervention period, the response variable had an average value of approximately. 422.02. The 95% interval of this counterfactual prediction is [669.64, 821.18]. Therefore, the adverse effects observed during the intervention period are statistically significant.

Conclusion: The overall findings of the segmented regression model imply that public health initiatives in Kilifi County have been successful in enhancing population health outcomes. The study recommends using PCV10 vaccination as an intervention for longevity of good health and reducing the number of pneumonia cases among children under five in Kenya.