Baseline anemia and its associated factors among adult cancer patients at Northwest Amhara Regional State Referral Hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Introduction: Currently, the problem of cancer has been increasing around the world, predominantly in middle- and low-income countries. Anemia, a major and often overwhelming health burden for cancer patients, significantly distorts their quality of life. It is well-established that the length of treatment increases the frequency of anemia, with hematological malignancies experiencing nearly double the rate compared to solid tumors. Despite this established knowledge, data on the prevalence of anemia among cancer patients in Ethiopia remains scarce, according to the investigators. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of baseline anemia and associated factors among adult cancer patients at Northwest Amhara Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals, oncology treatment units, Northwest Ethiopia, in 2021. Methods: This study employed an institutional-based cross-sectional design and was conducted in Northwest Amhara Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 315 participants. The data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and chart reviews of existing medical records using a structured and pretested questionnaire format. The data were entered into Epi. Data version 4.6 and analyzed using Stata version 14.0. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were carried out to identify factors associated with anemia. Adjusted odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval and variables with a p-value of < 0.05 were considered significantly associated with anemia. Results: The prevalence of baseline anemia among adult patients with cancer was found to be 34.84%. Being a woman (AOR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.00-3.87), being underweight (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.09-3.52), and having stage III cancer (AOR = 2.35; 95% CI: 1.12-3.01) were significantly associated with anemia. Conclusion: The prevalence of baseline anemia among adult cancer patients was significant. Women, cancer patients with an underweight body mass index, and those diagnosed with clinical-stage III cancer were more likely to have baseline anemia. For health policymakers and healthcare providers, it is better to give special attention to female patients, patients who are underweight, and patients with advanced-stage cancer to reduce the risk of developing the outcome. This would allow for timely intervention to manage anemia and potentially improve treatment tolerance and quality of life for cancer patients.

Exploring social media adoption for marketing purpose among healthcare professionals in Gondar town, central Gondar zone: A facility-based cross-sectional survey.

Background: Social media has become an integral platform for global information exchange and business interactions, emerging as a crucial tool for promoting products and services in the digital age. Despite its worldwide significance, local businesses, especially in Ethiopia, lag behind in leveraging social media for healthcare marketing. The scarcity of studies on social media adoption among healthcare providers in Ethiopia highlights the imperative for comprehensive research. Objective: This study, conducted in Gondar Town, focused on private healthcare professionals, aiming to identify the determinants of their behavioral intention and usage behavior in adopting social media marketing. Method: A facility-based cross-sectional survey involving 238 health professionals from private healthcare facilities in Gondar Town was conducted between March and June 2023. The study analyzed data using SPSS Version 26 and AMOS Structural Equation Modeling Version 23. Results: All participants reported using social media platforms, with Facebook, Telegram, and YouTube being popular choices. Performance expectancy, social influence, facilitation condition, and behavioral intention significantly influenced healthcare professionals' adoption of social media marketing. Performance expectancy and social influence exhibited the strongest impact on behavioral intention, acting as mediators influencing usage behavior. However, effort expectancy did not significantly influence behavioral intention. Age, gender, experience, and voluntariness showed no significant moderating effects. Conclusion: This study contributes valuable insights into social media marketing adoption in the healthcare sector, emphasizing the critical role of various factors in shaping behavioral intention and usage behavior. The findings offer practical implications for private healthcare providers, policymakers, and marketers, guiding strategies to enhance patient communication and engagement through social media in Gondar Town.

Effects of sex, toilet training, stress, and caffeine on nocturnal enuresis among school children in Gondar Town, the metropolitan city of Ethiopia: a community-based study in 2023.

Background: Nocturnal enuresis is associated with severe social and psychological problems that affect one's self-esteem, later in life, harmed adolescent and adult life, emotional stress on the family, and poor school performance. Moreover, enuresis children may cause panic attacks, mood disorders, and depression. This study aims to assess the prevalence and associated factors of nocturnal enuresis among children aged 5-14 years in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023. Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from April 1, 2023, to May 30, 2023. A stratified multistage sampling technique was used to select study subject from kebeles in Gondar city. The data were collected by using a structured, interviewer-administer Questionnaire. The data were entered using EPI DATA version 4.6.02 software, and processed,and analyzed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 25. All variables with P ≤ 0.25 in the bivariate analysis were included in the final model of multivariate analysis. The multivariate binary logistic regression was used to assess the association between the independent and outcome variable. The direction and strength of statistical association were measured with an adjusted odds ratio along with 95% CI and a P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: The overall prevalence of nocturnal enuresis among children aged 5-14 years was 162 (22.2%). The findings showed that being boys [AOR = 0.54; 95% CI (0.31, 0.93)], child and no toilet training practices [AOR = 2.50; 95% CI (1.02, 6.15)], Having no caffeine [AOR = 0.16; 95% CI (0.09, 0.29)], and exposure to stressful events [AOR = 20; 95% CI (11.12, 33.34)] had a significant association with nocturnal enuresis, p-value <0.05. Conclusion: In this study, the prevalence of nocturnal enuresis children age 5-14 years was higher than that in previous studies. Sex of child, toilet training practices, caffeine c before bed, and presences of stressful event were a significant predictor of nocturnal enuresis.

Burden and factors influencing intestinal parasitic infections among food handlers in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections pose significant global health challenges, particularly in developing countries. Asymptomatic infections often present a considerable burden with food handlers serving as potential carriers. In Ethiopia, the prevalence of these parasites varies across regions, and accurate data in the study area is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites among food handlers working in hotels and restaurants in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study collected stool samples from food handlers alongside a structured questionnaire gathering socio-demographic and hygiene practice information. Stool specimens were screened for intestinal parasites using direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. The collected data were checked for completeness, entered into EpiData software version 3.1, and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was deemed statistically significant if the p-value was less than 0.05. Results: A total of 257 food handlers working in hotels and restaurants in Gondar City participated in the study. Of these, 33.5% (86/257) were found positive for one or more intestinal parasites, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 28.0-39.5%. The study identified nine types of intestinal parasites, with E. histolytica/dispar (8.2%, 21/257) and Ascaris lumbricoides (6.6%, 17/257) being the predominant parasites, followed by hookworm (3.5%, 9/257) and S. mansoni (2.3%, 6/257). The prevalence of mixed infections was 9.3% (24/257). A significant association was observed between intestinal parasitic infection and the educational level of food handlers. Conclusion: In this study, a high prevalence of intestinal parasites was detected indicating poor hygiene practices of the food handlers at the study site. Even the prevalence of mixed infections was high. Regular training, strict adherence to personal hygiene and food-handling practices, and routine inspections and medical checkups for food handlers are crucial.

An assessment of the provision of women-friendly care and its associated factors among mothers who gave birth at public health institutions in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia.

Introduction: "Women-friendly care" is one of the categories of respectful maternal care and is a method of providing care that improves women's access to safe parenting and to reproductive health services by creating a friendly environment at all levels. Improving service use is crucial, particularly in situations where it is low. There is limited data on women-friendly care during childbirth in Ethiopia. Objective: This study aimed to assess the provision of women-friendly care and its associated factors among mothers who gave birth at health institutions in the South Gondar zone, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A multicenter institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among mothers who gave birth at South Gondar Zone public health institutions, from February 01 to March 30/2021. Three hundred forty-eight study participants were selected by using systematic random sampling. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection. For analysis, the data were imported into Epi-Data version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with the outcome variable. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was computed to determine the level of significance. Results: The study had 344 participants in total, with a response rate of 98.85%. The study revealed that a full 73% [95%; CI: 68.6, 77.3%] its participants received women-friendly care. Having antenatal care follow-up [AOR: 3.02, 95% CI: 2.16-11.68], being a primipara [AOR = 2.30 95% CI: 1.23-5.49], not experiencing complications during childbirth [AOR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.17-12.4], stays at health care facilities, specifically between 13 and 24 h [AOR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.09-0.67], place for delivery [AOR: 2.01, 95% CI: 1.29-6.09] and delivering during daytime hours [AOR = 2.17, 95% CI: 1.08-5.65] were significantly associated with the provision of women-friendly care. Conclusions: Only two-thirds of the study participants received Women's-friendly care during childbirth. It was found to be low in our study area in contrast with the majority of the previous findings. Our own findings also suggest the importance of minimizing elective induction of labor during night, of providing comprehensive counseling on antenatal care follow-up, of ensuring mothers remain at health care facilities until the recommended duration, and of implementing early prevention and management of childbirth complications to ensure that mothers receive women-friendly care.

Utilization of the Integrated Management of Newborn and Childhood Illness (IMNCI) protocol and associated factors among health care workers in health centers of South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia: an institution-based mixed study.

Introduction: Globally, 11 million children have died before reaching their fifth birthday. The introduction of the Integrated Management of Newborn and Childhood Illness (IMNCI) protocol reduces the morbidity and mortality rates among children under the age of 5. However, the share of neonatal mortality is increasing. As a result, the United Nations has established sustainable development goals to reduce national neonatal death rates through the utilization of the Integrated Management of Newborn and Childhood Illness protocol as the main tool for 12 per 1,000 live births by 2030. However, the death rate from preventable causes has increased owing to the low utilization of the protocol. Objective: The objective of this research is to assess the utilization of the IMNCI protocol and associated factors among healthcare workers (HCW) in health centers at the South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia, in 2022. Methods: The institution-based mixed study design was conducted from November to December 2022 at the South Gondar Zone, Amhara. A total of 422 HCW were selected using a computer-generated random-number generator. Data were cleaned and entered into EpiData 3.1 software and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Binary logistic regression was used to identify candidates for multivariable logistic analysis with p-value < 0.2, and for multivariable analysis, p-value < 0.05, with a 95% confidence interval, was considered significant. Thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data. Results: In total, 417 respondents were included in the final analysis. The overall response rate was 98.8%, and the mean age was 30.01 years. The results showed that the proportion of IMNCI utilization was 63.1%. The odds of the utilization of IMNCI protocol among HCW who took training were 3.13 times higher than those among HCW who did not take training [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.13, 95% CI: 1.594, 6.147]. The lack of drugs reduces the utilization of the IMNCI protocol by 75.7% compared with the use of drugs (AOR = 0.243, CI: 95%:0.128, 0.464). HCW who always referred to the chart booklet during case management were 3.34 times more likely to utilize the IMNCI protocol (AOR = 3.34, 95% CI: 1.99, 5.60) compared with those who did not refer to the chart booklet. Conclusions and recommendations: The utilization of the IMNCI protocol was low. A shortage of medical consumables and equipment attitude and training were identified as factors that affected the utilization of the protocol. Therefore, the availability of necessary logistics and training for employees with regular supportive supervision and monitoring should be conducted with the integration of sectors at the district and zone levels.

Determinants of birth asphyxia among newborns in south Gondar Zone public hospitals, North West Ethiopia, 2021: A case control study.

Introduction: Birth asphyxia is one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality, which accounts for around 24 % of overall neonatal mortality. Neonatal death usually results from preventable factors. Thus, this study has aimed to identify the determinant factors of birth asphyxia among newborns in South Gondar Zone public hospitals. Methods: Institution based unmatched case control study and systematic random sampling technique was conducted in South Gondar zone public hospitals from March October 2021 to May 20/2021. A pretested interviewer administered questionnaire and a data retrieving checklist was used for data collection. Cases were selected if one of the following was present at birth: (gasping, no breathing, or breathing rate of below 30 per minute). Epidata version 4.6 software was used for data entry and bivariate logistic regression and multivariable logistic regression techniques were used for data analysis using SPSS version 23. Result: In this study, Instrumental delivery (AOR = 3.19, 95%CI: 1.23-8.36), labor abnormality (AOR = 3.24, 95%CI: 1.31-8.03), cord prolapse (AOR = 7.06, 95%CI:2.25-22.50),APH (AOR = 4.68,95%CI:2.00-10.95) and preterm birth (AOR = 3.84,95%CI:1.32-11.20) were predictors of birth asphyxia. Conclusion: Labor abnormality, ante-partum hemorrhage, cord prolapse, instrumental delivery and preterm birth were independent predictors of birth asphyxia.

Microbiological quality of edible vegetable oils produced and marketed in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia.

Edible oils are imported and produced in Ethiopia, notably in Gondar, and their production has expanded considerably in recent years. The expansion of locally produced edible vegetable oils with severe quality control, substandard edible oil production, and quality deterioration may contribute to the contamination of microbes, which may cause public health problems. This study determines the microbiological quality of edible vegetable oils being produced and marketed in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia, in 2021. A laboratory-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from May to July 2021 in Gondar City. A simple random sampling technique was used to collect 17 edible vegetable oil samples. Aseptically collected samples were analyzed in the microbiology lab room. The microbiological quality of vegetable oil was assessed using standard microbiological procedures and techniques. The collected data were entered into a Microsoft Excel 2016 spreadsheet and Stata Version 14. A non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test was used to assess significant variation. Seventeen edible vegetable oil samples were examined and found to contain a varying number of bacteria, yeast, and molds. Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella Pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the identified bacteria, whereas Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus fumigatus were the identified fungi. Total coliform and fecal coliform isolates were also identified in the oil samples. A level of microbial contamination that has public health importance was observed in some of the oil samples analyzed, and the isolated microorganisms indicate unhygienic handling, processing, and storage practices in the oil production and market sites. The introduction of strict rules, regulations, and updated manufacturing technologies and processes to ensure food safety and quality is needed.

Second dose of measles-containing vaccine coverage and associated factors among children aged 24-36 months in Gondar city, Central Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023.

Background: Measles caused 207,000 deaths worldwide in 2019. Ethiopia ranks among the top 10 countries in the world with the highest number of measles cases. However, the coverage of the second dose of measles-containing vaccine (MCV2) remains low. To increase coverage, the government of Ethiopia launched a nationwide measles vaccination campaign. Despite this intervention, the coverage is still below target, and there is scarce information in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess MCV2 coverage and associated factors among children aged 24-36 months in Gondar city, Central Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 621 children aged 24-36 months using a systematic random sampling technique from 25 April to 25 May. A pre-tested, interviewer-administered, and structured questionnaire was used and collected using Kobo Toolbox and then transferred to Stata version 17 for further analysis. The binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors, and the presence of an association was declared using a p-value of <0.05. Similarly, an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to interpret the direction and strength of an association. Results: A total of 621 children, with a response rate of 98.1%, participated in the study. The coverage of the second dose of MCV was 75.68% (95% CI: 72.1-78.9). The following factors were significantly associated with measles-containing vaccine second dose (MCV2) coverage: father as the household head (AOR: 3.06, 95% CI: 1.43-6.44), first birth order (AOR: 4.45, 95% CI: 1.21-16.3), four and above antenatal care (ANC) follow-ups (AOR: 5.18, 95% CI:1.62-16.5), postnatal care (PNC) service utilization (AOR: 2.57, 95% CI:1.27-5.15), at least two doses of vitamin A uptake (AOR: 6.39, 95% CI: 2.67-15.2), mothers having high awareness (AOR: 1.97, 95% CI:1.15-3.4), and good perception (AOR: 3.6, 95% CI: 2-6.47) about measles vaccination. Conclusion and recommendations: The coverage of MCV2 in the study area is lower than the national and global target of above 95%. Head of household, birth order, ANC follow-up, PNC service utilization, vitamin A uptake, awareness, and perception of mothers about measles vaccination were significant factors for MCV2 coverage. Creating awareness, increasing the perception of mothers about measles vaccination, and strengthening the ANC and PNC services will increase the coverage.

Prevalence of Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and intestinal parasites among food handlers working in University of Gondar student's cafeteria, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Food-borne infections continue to be a major public health problem at the international level. The issue becomes more serious in developing countries like Ethiopia. Objective: This study aimed to examine the prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella species and intestinal parasites, as well as antimicrobial resistance patterns and associated factors among food handlers at the University of Gondar cafeteria in northwest Ethiopia. Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to June 2021 in the University of Gondar cafeterias. Data related to the socio-demographic characteristics and hygienic practices of study participants were collected using structured questionnaires. A total of 290 stool samples were collected from food handlers. Culture and conventional biochemical tests were used to isolate the Salmonella and the Shigella species. Wet mount, Formol-ether concentration, and Kato Katz techniques were applied to identify intestinal parasites. Additionally, drug susceptibility tests were performed using the disk diffusion method. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 26. Results: Of 290 food handlers' stool samples analyzed, Twenty-seven 27 (9.3%) were positive for both Salmonella and Shigella species. The prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella species was 16 (5.5%) and 11 (3.8%), respectively. Most of the isolated pathogens were resistant to tetracycline 19 (70.4%), and trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole 19 (70.4%). The overall rate of multi-drug resistant Shigella and Salmonella isolate was 59.3%. Besides, Fifty-seven 57 (19.7%) of the participants were positive for one or more intestinal parasites. The most prevalent intestinal Parasitosis was E. histolytica/dispar 22 (7.6%), followed by G. lamblia 13 (4.5%), and Ascaris lumbricoides 11 (3.8) not washing hands after using the toilet (AOR: 4.42, 95% CI: 1.57, 10.56), and consuming unpasteurized milk (AOR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.65, 3.96), were factors significantly associated with the prevalence of Salmonella, and Shigella infection. Similarly, not washing hands after using the toilet (AOR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.0, 1.4), and consuming unpasteurized milk (AOR: 10.4, 95% CI: 3.8, 28.8), were factors significantly associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasites infection. Conclusion: The prevalence of intestinal parasites, Salmonella, and Shigella species was high. Therefore, it is imperative to implement a public health policy that includes ongoing microbiological surveillance.

Evaluation of integrated community case management of the common childhood illness program in Gondar city, northwest Ethiopia: a case study evaluation design.

BACKGROUND: Integrated Community Case Management (ICCM) of common childhood illness is one of the global initiatives to reduce mortality among under-five children by two-thirds. It is also implemented in Ethiopia to improve community access and coverage of health services. However, as per our best knowledge the implementation status of integrated community case management in the study area is not well evaluated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the implementation status of the integrated community case management program in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: A single case study design with mixed methods was employed to evaluate the process of integrated community case management for common childhood illness in Gondar town from March 17 to April 17, 2022. The availability, compliance, and acceptability dimensions of the program implementation were evaluated using 49 indicators. In this evaluation, 484 mothers or caregivers participated in exit interviews; 230 records were reviewed, 21 key informants were interviewed; and 42 observations were included. To identify the predictor variables associated with acceptability, we used a multivariable logistic regression analysis. Statistically significant variables were identified based on the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and p-value. The qualitative data was recorded, transcribed, and translated into English, and thematic analysis was carried out. RESULTS: The overall implementation of integrated community case management was 81.5%, of which availability (84.2%), compliance (83.1%), and acceptability (75.3%) contributed. Some drugs and medical equipment, like Cotrimoxazole, vitamin K, a timer, and a resuscitation bag, were stocked out. Health care providers complained that lack of refreshment training and continuous supportive supervision was the common challenges that led to a skill gap for effective program delivery. Educational status (primary AOR = 0.27, 95% CI:0.11-0.52), secondary AOR = 0.16, 95% CI:0.07-0.39), and college and above AOR = 0.08, 95% CI:0.07-0.39), prescribed drug availability (AOR = 2.17, 95% CI:1.14-4.10), travel time to the to the ICCM site (AOR = 3.8, 95% CI:1.99-7.35), and waiting time (AOR = 2.80, 95% CI:1.16-6.79) were factors associated with the acceptability of the program by caregivers. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: The overall implementation status of the integrated community case management program was judged as good. However, there were gaps observed in the assessment, classification, and treatment of diseases. Educational status, availability of the prescribed drugs, waiting time and travel time to integrated community case management sites were factors associated with the program acceptability. Continuous supportive supervision for health facilities, refreshment training for HEW's to maximize compliance, construction clean water sources for HPs, and conducting longitudinal studies for the future are the forwarded recommendation.

Diagnosis of Thyroid Neoplasm-Associated Dermatomyositis in Ethiopian Woman.

Background: Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory myopathies causing proximal muscle weakness accompanied by muscular inflammation and skin rash. Dermatomyositis patients have a higher incidence of malignancy as compared to the general population. Case Report: A 52-year-old known female patient with a toxic multi-nodular goiter presented with insidious onset of itchy erythematous rash on her neck and bilateral hands and progressive muscle weakness of 4 months' duration. Associated with this, she had photosensitivity, and periorbital edema of 2 months' duration. On physical examination, she had an anterior neck mass, proximal muscle weakness, periorbital edema, and violaceous skin rash on her bilateral arms, shoulders and neck. Thyroid function tests were normal, creatinine kinase was elevated, and muscle biopsy revealed inflammatory myositis. Ultrasound of the anterior neck mass and analysis of fine needle aspiration suggested thyroid cancer. Conclusion: A high index of clinical suspicion is usually required for early diagnosis of dermatomyositis in resource-limited settings in order to prevent adverse outcomes and identify associated malignancies.

Adverse birth outcome among women who gave birth at the University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: In Ethiopia, various maternal and child health interventions, including comprehensive and basic obstetric cares were conducted to curb high neonatal and infant morbidity and mortality. As such, adverse birth outcome has been a public health concern in the country. Thus, this study aimed to assess the burden and associated factors with adverse birth outcomes among women who gave birth at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: A health facility-based cross-sectional study was employed from 30 March to 01 May 2021 at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. A total of 455 women were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. A binary logistic regression model was fitted Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95%CI and p-value < 0.05 were used to declare factors significantly associated with adverse birth outcomes. RESULTS: In this study, 28% of women had adverse birth outcomes (8.4% stillbirths, 22.9% preterm births, and 10.11% low birth weights). Women aged 20-34) (AOR: 0.32, 95%CI: 0.14, 0.76), rural dwellers (AOR: 2.7, 95%CI: 1.06, 6.32), lack of ANC visits (AOR: 4.10, 95%CI: 1.55, 10.85), APH (AOR: 3.0, 95%CI: 1.27, 7.10) and fever (AOR: 7.80, 95%CI: 3.57, 17.02) were associated to stillbirths. Multiple pregnancy (AOR:7.30, 95%CI:1.75, 20.47), rural dwellers (AOR:4.60, 95%CI:1.36, 15.52), preterm births (AOR: 8.60, 95% CI: 3.88, 19.23), previous perinatal death (AOR:2.90, 95%CI:1.35, 6.24), fever (AOR:2.7,95%CI:1.17 ,6.23) and premature rupture of membrane (AOR:2.60, 95% CI:1.02, 6.57) were affecting low birth weights. In addition, previous antepartum hemorrhage (AOR: 2.40, 95%CI: 1.37, 4.10) and fever (AOR: 3.8, 95%CI: 2.13, 6.89) were also factors contributing to preterm births. CONCLUSION: Adverse birth outcomes continue to pose a significant public health concern. Such high rates of adverse birth outcomes, such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and birth defects, can have serious and long-lasting effects on the health and well-being of both infants and their families, and the community at large. As such, public health efforts are crucial in addressing and mitigating the risk factors associated with adverse birth outcomes. This may involve implementing interventions and policies to improve maternal health, access to prenatal care and nutritional support, and reducing exposure to environmental risks.

Availability of Dispensing and Storage Facilities at Public and Community Pharmacies at Bahir Dar and Gondar Towns.

Background: The availability of various facilities that aid in providing expected services is necessary for the practice of pharmacy, which aims to make the best use of medications and other healthcare products and services. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the availability of dispensing and storage facilities at public and community pharmacies in Bahir Dar and Gondar towns. Methods: In Gondar and Bahir Dar towns' public and private pharmacies, a facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2023 to September 2023. All pharmacy areas that were open during data collection were included in the study. The frequency and percentage were calculated using descriptive statistics. Results: From 239 pharmacies, 208 (87.0%) of them were open during data collection, and they are included in the study. The water supply and dispensing counter were available in the dispensing area in 79.3% and 60.1% of instances, respectively. They also had adequate room for storage (92.8%), dispensing (92.8%), and receiving (95.7%) of medicines. Additionally, about 98.1% of the facilities had shaded, ventilated, and dry areas. A therapeutic order was the most often used method (59.6%) for medication organization. Merely 1.9% of participants did not employ a strategy to arrange their medications. A refrigerator (88.0%), a refrigerator thermometer (91.3%), a spoon or spatula (81.3%), a separate storage facility (74.5%), a cold room (68.8%), a lockable cabinet (90.9%), a tablet counter (69.2%), and a fire extinguisher (safety device) (88%) were among the various storage equipment the majority of the pharmacies in the survey had. Nonetheless, air conditioning was absent from the majority (53.4%) of pharmacy facilities. Conclusion: Few pharmacies need to make improvements to their facilities in order to encourage convenient drug storage and dispensing practices, even though the majority of the pharmacies surveyed had all the necessary equipment and infrastructure. In addition to initiating the pharmacies to provide good practices of dispensing and storage, facility-focused initiation and regulation should be obtained to ensure full availability of the facilities.

Evaluating the Knowledge, Practice, and Regulatory Situation of Veterinary Experts Regarding Counterfeit Veterinary Medications in the Selected Districts of Central Gondar Zone, Ethiopia.

Background: The intentional and illegal misrepresentation of fake medications involves falsely indicating their source. These fraudulent medications can include products that contain either accurate or incorrect ingredients, lack proper labeling, have insufficient quantities of ingredients, and are packaged with counterfeit packaging. This unlawful activity has led to treatment failures, the development of antibiotic resistance, adverse effects, and even deaths. Hence, the objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, practice, and regulatory status of veterinary drug experts in the central Gondar zone of Ethiopia regarding counterfeit veterinary medications. Methods: From January 2023 to July 2023, a self-administered structured questionnaire was utilized to conduct a cross-sectional study in Central Gondar Zone, Ethiopia. The analysis of the data involved the application of descriptive and chi-square tests. Results: The study revealed that the majority of professionals possessed a work experience ranging from 5 to 9 years (23; 56.1%). Additionally, a total of 25 individuals (61.0%) who participated in the research had not undergone any kind of training. It was observed that a significant proportion of participants (82.9%) possessed knowledge about counterfeit veterinary drugs. Only about 63% and 36% of respondents had high knowledge and good practice concerning veterinary counterfeit drugs, respectively. Only 29.3% of participants have reported practices. Furthermore, a poor regulatory level of coordination was detected (85.4%). The study revealed a significant (χ2 =7.6165; p = 0.022) disparity between the respondents' practice levels and training. Respondents' regulatory levels were also significantly associated (p < 0.05) with their sex (χ2 = 13.34; p = 0.001) and work experience (χ2 = 13.64; p = 0.033). The research findings also revealed a noteworthy correlation between practice and regulatory activity (χ2 = 15.0463; p = 0.005). Conclusion: The study outlines the necessity of awareness initiatives, with a focus on the significance of veterinary experts' knowledge, practice, and regulatory efforts in addressing the issue of counterfeit veterinary medications.

Analyzing clinical laboratory specimen rejection rates at a specialized hospital in Ethiopia: A 2-year document review.

OBJECTIVES: Accurate laboratory diagnosis is essential for effective patient care, but the rejection of specimens within laboratories can have serious consequences. METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2021 at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital laboratory. Two years of laboratory data were collected from laboratory log books and analyzed to determine trends in specimen rejection rates and identify potential reasons for those rejections. RESULTS: We analyzed 114,439 specimens, of which 786 (0.70%) were rejected. The hematology service exhibited the highest rejection rate, at 273 (0.2%). The main reasons for specimen rejection were specimens without requests or requests without specimens (40.2%), poor smear preparation (12.3%), clotted specimens (11.3%), and labeling problems (8.0%). CONCLUSIONS: This study emphasized a significant incidence of specimen rejection, particularly in the hematology laboratory, underscoring the need for immediate implementation of corrective actions and preventive measures. Furthermore, conducting comprehensive larger-scale studies is recommended to deepen our understanding of and investigate the specific factors contributing to specimen rejection in greater detail.

Exploring Factors Influencing Family's Enrollment in Community-Based Health Insurance in the City of Gondar Peri-Urban Community, Northwest Ethiopia: A Health Belief Model Approach.

Background: A research gap exists in finding practical solutions to provide affordable and accessible health insurance coverage to improve CBHI enrollment and sustainability to people in resource-poor settings and contribute to achieving universal health coverage (UHC) in Ethiopia. This research was initiated to analyze the role of community trust in scheme management and health choice to identify significant factors based on the health belief model (HBM). This psychological framework explains and predicts health behavior by considering individual perceptions. Methods: Cross-sectional information was gathered from 358 families, and original facts were utilized. Descriptive data and the Binary logistics in the econometric model were applied for data analysis. Findings: The descriptive findings demonstrated that other variables were established to possess a significant consequence except for job and occupation variables. The results of the logistic regression model showed that the distance of the nearest health station from the family's home in a minute [AOR (95% CI) =0.177 (0.015, -0.399)], being a member of the families having an official position in local government or cultural structure [AOR (95% CI) =0.574 (0.355, 0.793)], having an experience of visiting health facilities [AOR (95% CI) =0.281 (0.166, 0.396)], and perceiving the local CBHI scheme management as trustworthy [AOR (95% CI) =0.404 (0.233, 0.575)] were positively associated with family enrollment in the CBHI scheme. On the other hand, being a member of the "rotating saving and credit association" (ROSCA) [AOR (95% CI) =-.299 (-.478, -0.120)] was negatively associated with the family's enrollment in the CBHI scheme. Conclusion: Trust in CBHI scheme management, family's experience of visiting health facilities, and distance from the nearest health station were essential factors influencing enrollment in CBHI schemes. "Rotating saving and credit association" (ROSCA) ° negatively and statistically significantly impacted the family's CBHI enrolment status. Income level was not associated with enrollment.

Evaluation of Seven Different Brands of Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets Available in the Market in Gondar City, Ethiopia.

Background: WHO estimates that 15.8% of substandard or falsified medical products are used to treat non-communicable diseases which account for 80% of the global burden including diabetes. The increased level of use of metformin hydrochloride tablets in clinical practice creates the need to monitor and ascertain the quality of the various brands available in the drug market for quality control assessment and generic substitution. This study aims to assess the pharmaceutical quality of seven brands of metformin tablets circulating in pharmacy outlets in Gondar City, North West Ethiopia. Methods: Official Pharmacopoeia tests such as uniformity of weight, disintegration, assay, and dissolution tests were used to assess the physicochemical quality control parameters of metformin hydrochloride tablet brands. The unofficial tests conducted included crushing strength/hardness and friability. Results: In all seven tests, the tested brands passed the BP official tests for uniformity of weight, friability, disintegration, and dissolution. Each product had a friability of less than 1% with a maximum of 0.385%. In contrast, none of the brands passed the non-official hardness test. Each product disintegrated in seven to twelve minutes, meeting the USP standards. Drug release rates in 45 min ranged from 78.9 to 92.6%, and drug content results were within the USP guidelines (96.55-102.76%). Conclusion: The current study demonstrated that all seven brands of metformin hydrochloride 500 mg tablets adhered to the quality control parameters specified in the pharmacopeia, except for the hardness test across all brands.

Utilization of early postnatal care services and associated factors among mothers who gave birth in the last 12 months in South Gondar Zone District, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia.

INTRODUCTION: Postnatal care is care that is provided to mothers and newborn baby after delivery. The care given after childbirth is the most critical time because most maternal and neonatal mortality occurs during this period. Utilization of this service is low in Ethiopia, and no evidence exists to describe the status of early postnatal care service utilization among women in the study area. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the utilization of early postnatal care services and associated factors among mothers who gave birth in the last 12 months in the South Gondar Zone District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia, in 2021. METHOD: This study was conducted in South Gondar Zone Districts from October 1 to 30, 2021. A total of 761 participants were included in this study using a simple random sampling method. The study participants were mothers who gave birth in the last 12 months. The data were collected via interview-guided semistructured questionnaires. The collected data were coded and entered into EPI Info version 7.2 and exported into SPSS version 23 for analysis. Both binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to identify factors affecting the outcome variables. The results of the final model are presented as the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). A P value less than 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. RESULTS: In this study, 761 mothers participated, for a response rate of 100%. The overall prevalence of early utilization of postnatal care services was 20.6%. Mothers who live in urban areas were five times more likely to have early visits than those living in rural areas with adjusted odds ratio [AOR (95% CI) = 5.2 (3.19, 8.54)], a mothers who had a history of more than four parity had more likely to visit than the others at [AOR (95% CI) = 2.25 (1.18, 4.29)], mothers who had a history of pregnancy had two times more likely to visit than the other [AOR (95% CI) = 2.06 (1.05, 4.05)], and mothers who had delivered by instrumental vaginal delivery or cesarean section delivery and those mothers who had mass media exposure were two and five times more likely to visit, respectively [AOR (95% CI) = 2.62 (1.40, 4.91)] and [AOR (95% CI) = 5.18 (2.55, 10.52)]. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: Compared with those of other studies, the overall prevalence of early utilization of postnatal care services was low. Improving mothers' knowledge of early postnatal care visits is very important for enhancing quality of life and minimizing neonatal and maternal morbidity and mortality.

Evaluation of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) varieties for drought tolerance using agromorphological traits and drought tolerance indices.

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an important cash crop cultivated under rain-fed conditions where it contributes a significant proportion of Ethiopia's foreign exchange earnings. However, its productivity is constrained by drought stress. The present study aimed to evaluate the agromorphological and yield performance of sesame varieties and to identify drought tolerant varieties using drought tolerance indices. The sesame varieties were evaluated under well-watered (WW) and water-stressed (WS) field conditions with a factorial design laid down in randomized complete block design in three replications. The results revealed the presence of a significant variation in agromorphological traits and drought tolerance indices due to water levels, varieties and their interactive effect. On average, a 21.8, 49.6, 48.4, 47.9 and 21.7% reduction was recorded in plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf width and relative growth rate (RGR), respectively under WS condition. Similarly, a significant reduction was found in shoot biomass, root biomass, biological yield, number of pods per plant and seed yield under WS condition. These traits showed an average reduction of 52.2, 72.5, 54.0, 51.9 and 52.8%, respectively compared to WW condition. The highest yield reduction was recorded from wollega under WS condition, while the lowest was from abasena. Wollega variety produced the highest seed yield (kg/ha) under WW condition, while gondar-1 and humera-1 had the highest yield in kg/ha under WS condition. Under both water levels, abasena produced the lowest yield (kg/ha). Moreover, gondar-1 and humera-1 varieties had a comparatively higher values of stress tolerance index (STI), yield stress score index (YSSI), yield potential score index (YPSI), geometric mean productivity (GMP) and mean productivity (MP) that are significantly and positively correlated with yield under WS, indicating higher yield performance under water stress. The biplot analysis clustered the varieties as low yielding (abasena) and relatively above average performing varieties (humera-1, gondar-1 and wollega). According to the rank sum of all indices, humera-1 was identified as drought tolerant, while abasena as the most susceptible and low yielding varieties. Thus, humera-1 followed by gondar-1 were found to be drought tolerant and high yielding varieties. However, further studies focusing on drought tolerance mechanisms of the varieties are recommended.