Psychiatric comorbidity in people with epilepsy in Ethiopia: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Psychiatric comorbidity is a double burden among people with epilepsy. Since people with epilepsy are more vulnerable to psychiatric illnesses. So, the implementation of an appropriate intervention to minimize the double burden of comorbidity is very important. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of psychiatric comorbidity among people with epilepsy in Ethiopia. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Item Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guideline. Searching databases were PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and HINARI.The quality of the included articles was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The pooled meta-logistic regression was computed to estimate the pooled prevalence and the risk factors with a 95% CI. RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of psychiatric comorbidity in people with epilepsy was 34.69 % (95 % CI: 29.27, 40.10). Frequent seizures (POR = 2.94: 95 % CI: 1.08, 8.00) and a history of divorce (POR = 2.00: 95 % CI: 1.09, 3.81) were associated factors of psychiatric comorbidity in people with epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of psychiatric comorbidity among people with epilepsy was found to be higher compared with the general population. Therefore, among people with epilepsy, parallel psychiatric evaluation is very important along with neurological evaluation.

Multilevel analysis of intimate partner violence and associated factors among reproductive-age women: Kenya demographic and health survey 2022 data.

INTRODUCTION: Intimate partner violence is a human rights violation that often involves violence against women, which appears to be the most prevalent type of abuse. Intimate partner violence is a major global public health issue that includes physical, emotional, and sexual violence. The prevalence of intimate partner violence in Africa is high. The burden of intimate partner violence among reproductive-age women is high in Kenya. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to determine the associated factors of intimate partner violence among reproductive-age women at the individual and community level from the recent Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) 2022 data of Kenya. METHODS: The Kenya National Demographic and Health Survey data of 2022 was used for this study. The overall sample size for this study was 14,612, which focused on women aged 15 to 49 years who had ever been partnered and responded to the domestic violence module. Multilevel logistic regression models to determine the prevalence and associated factors at the individual and community level with intimate partner violence with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) and Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR). RESULT: The overall prevalence of intimate partner violence was 41.1% with a 95% CI (40.07%, 42.60. Male-headed households, poorest and middle wealth status, partner alcohol use, separated/widowed current marital status, and low education of women were statistically significantly associated with intimate partner violence at the individual level variables in this study. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of intimate partner violence was high. Educating women, reducing partner alcohol use, and improving the economic status of women, were crucial in mitigating the burden of intimate partner violence. The intimate partners are supposed to respect the rights of women.

Gender-based violence and its determinants among refugees and internally displaced women in Africa: systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Gender-based violence is a serious public health concern and affects a large number of women and girls in humanitarian emergencies. Despite this, there is a dearth of the summary data to address the issue. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the estimated pooled magnitude and factors associated with gender-based violence among refugees and internally displaced women in Africa. METHODS: PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, African Journals OnLine, PsycINFO, and EMBASE were among the databases that were used to search the primary articles. The reviewed papers were articles that evaluated the prevalence and contributing variables of gender-based violence against refugees and internally displaced women in Africa. We extracted the data using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, which we exported into Stata version 14 for further analysis. The I2 test was applied to identify statistical heterogeneity. We used a random effect meta-analysis methodology because of the heterogeneity. A funnel plot and Egger's weighted regression test were used to examine publication bias. RESULTS: This systematic review and meta-analysis reviewed 17 primary studies with a total of 6,161 refugees and internally displaced women in Africa. The findings of this study revealed that the estimated pooled prevalence of gender-based violence among refugees and internally displaced women was determined to be 48.20% (95% CI: 39.28, 57.12). Young age (AOR = 3.68, CI: 2.63, 5.14), alcohol consumption (AOR = 2.53, CI: 1.56, 4.11), and having no social protection (AOR = 3.21, CI: 2.22, 4.63) were factors significantly associated with gender-based violence. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The present study showed that almost half of refugees and internally displaced women residing in Africa were survivors of gender-based violence. Younger women, alcohol users, and those without social protection were more likely to experience gender-based violence. Therefore, it is recommended that accessible information about the consequences of gender-based violence and early intervention for survivors be provided, taking these factors into consideration.

Quality of life and associated factors among people with epilepsy in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Epilepsy is a global health and economic burden with major problems that have an impact on physical, psychological, and social activities. Quality of life (QoL) is often disturbed and can be influenced by many factors, like anti-seizure medication side effects, the sociocultural environment, and various disease-related factors. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to provide an overview of the most recent information available regarding the pooled prevalence of poor quality of life and associated factors among adult people with epilepsy in Ethiopia. METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) is an appropriate set of guidelines for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses. This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with CRD42024527914. To find publications for the systematic review and meta-analysis, we used both manual and electronic searches. The publications were searched by PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and other grey publications were searched by Google Scholar. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) for cross-sectional study quality assessment was employed to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies included in this review. The data was extracted in Microsoft Excel, and then it was exported into STATA 11.0 for analysis. A funnel plot and an objective examination of Egger's regression test were used to check for publication bias. RESULTS: We have included 7 studies conducted in Ethiopia with 2123 study participants, of whom 1163 (54.78%) were male individuals, and 1196 (56.34%) of the participants were living without marriage (either single, divorced, or widowed). The pooled prevalence of poor quality of life among people with epilepsy in Ethiopia is 45.07 (95% CI: 39.73-50.42%). Further, in subgroup analysis regarding the assessment tool of poor quality of life of people with epilepsy, QOLIE-31 accounted for 50.05% (95%CI: 46.65-53.45) and WHO QOL BREF accounted for 39.72% (95%CI: 27.67-51.78). Among the associated factors, being unable to read and write, anxiey and depression were significantly linked to the quality of life of people with epilepsy. CONCLUSION: This review found that there was a high pooled prevalence of poor quality of life related to people with epilepsy in Ethiopia. This study may provide further information to concerned bodies that do early screening and manage the quality of life of individuals with epilepsy. Also, screening and intervention for anxiety and depression problems should be considered in regular epilepsy care management.

Quality of Sleep and Its Determinants Among People with Diabetes Mellitus in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Poor sleep quality is a serious concern among diabetes mellitus patients, adversely affecting glycemic management and the prognosis of diabetic patients. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to estimate the overall pooled prevalence of poor sleep quality and its associated factors among diabetic patients in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS: Several search databases were employed to retrieve the eligible studies. A standardized data extraction format was used to extract the data, and the analysis was conducted using STATA version 14. To determine heterogeneity, the I2 test was conducted, and both the funnel plot and Egger's regression test were used to assess the publication bias. A random effects model meta-analysis was performed to estimate the overall prevalence and associated factors of poor sleep quality. RESULTS: In the current meta-analysis, a total of 11 studies with 3,766 study participants were included. The overall pooled prevalence of poor sleep quality among diabetic patients was 53.22% (95% CI: 36.26, 70.19). Poor sleep quality was significantly associated with longer duration of diabetes (OR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.85, 4.67), poor glycemic control (OR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.51, 3.32), depression (OR = 4.09, 95% CI: 2.07, 8.05) and comorbidity (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.31, 2.88). CONCLUSION: In this study, more than half of diabetic patients in Sub-Saharan Africa had poor sleep quality. Therefore, healthcare providers should give more attention to sleep disorders when screening diabetic patients to improve their poor sleep quality.

Suicidal ideation and attempts among high school students of war- affected area at Woldia town, Northeast, Ethiopia, 2022.

BACKGROUND: Suicidal ideation and attempts usually occur during adolescence time, and living in war- affected area make the problem more predominate and severe. To the best of our knowledge, there were no studies done among high school students who live in war affected areas in Ethiopia. OBJECTIVE: We assessed the prevalence and factors associated with suicide ideation and suicide attempts among high school students of war- affected area at Woldia town, Northeast, Ethiopia. METHODS: School based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 23 to June 08, 2022.Data were collected from high school students in Woldia town, Ethiopia. Pretested, self-administered Amharic-language questionnaire was used to collect the data. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the independent factors associated with suicide ideation and attempt. RESULTS: A total of 668 of the 707 sampled students participated in the study (94.5% response rate). The prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempts among high school students in Woldia town was 16.29% and 12.87%, respectively. In the multivariable analysis, poor social support(AOR = 2.86, 95% CI:1.49, 5.46), posttraumatic stress disorder (AOR = 2.15, 95% CI:1.20, 3.85), family history of suicide(AOR = 3.94, 95% CI:2.21, 7.04), anxiety(AOR = 3.45, 95% CI:1.72, 6.89), and depression (AOR = 2.31, 95% CI:1.24, 4.33) were factors significantly associated with suicide ideation, and poor social support(AOR = 2.75, 95% CI:1.38, 5.47), depression (AOR = 4.27, 95% CI:2.10, 8.67) and being a female sex (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI:1.22, 3.69) were factors significantly associated with suicidal attempt. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: This study revealed that at least one in six and one in eight of the students had suicidal ideation and attempt, respectively. Therefore, we recommend that Ministry of Education shall work with Ministry of Health to extend and implement mental health services in high schools and provide social support to those students who need the services in order for the prevention of suicidal ideation and attempts.

Prevalence and associated factors of depression, anxiety, and stress among high school students in, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

BACKGROUND: Many studies have revealed that students' performance in school, is affected by symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, which may impair their academic achievement, and lead to school dropout. However, to date, no studies have evaluated these three disorders among high school students in Africa. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety, stress, and their associated factors among high school students in Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 849 participants from six high schools in Northwest Ethiopia. A self-administered Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 25.0 software to identify factors associated with DAS, and bi-variable and multi-variable analyses were performed. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 41.4, 66.7, and 52.2% respectively. Being female (AOR = 1.304, 95% CI = 1.006-1.849), higher risky khat chewers (AOR = 5.595, 95% CI = 2.357-11.132), having social phobia (AOR = 1.416, 95% CI = 1.045-1.919) were associated with depression. Being higher risky cigarette smokers (AOR = 4.777, 95% CI = 1.407-7304), having a history of chronic medical illness (AOR = 2.099, 95% CI = 1.045-4.218), and having a family history of mental illness (AOR = 1.777, 95% CI = 1.028-3.073) associated with anxiety. Stress was associated with high-risk alcohol drinkers (AOR = 1.828, 95% CI = 1.012-3.303), rural residency (AOR = 1.395, 95%CI = 1.010-1.925), and low social support (AOR 1.7391, 95% CI = 1.203-2.515). CONCLUSION: The burden of DAS among high school students was found to be high. Female sex, chewing khat, and having social phobia are associated with depression. Conversely, smoking cigarettes, having a chronic medical illness, and having a family history of mental illness are all linked to anxiety. Being a highly risky alcoholic drinker, having poor social support, and being a rural resident are positively associated with stress. Therefore, extending mental health services to all high schools, and strengthening the existing counseling services, are recommended.

Investigating war trauma, its effects, and associated risk factors on anxiety among high school students in Woldia town, northeast Ethiopia, 2022.

Background: Anxiety symptoms are the most frequent mental health problems in the world, and it is a serious public health concern, especially among adolescents, because if left untreated, adolescent anxiety can have a number of detrimental effects, including lower academic performance, strained relationships with friends and family, substance addiction, thoughts of suicide and homicide, and trouble finding work. While this vulnerability is concerning in all situations, it is particularly critical in armed conflict areas. Ethiopia is one of the most recent war-affected countries, but to the best of our knowledge, limited studies focused on adolescents in this context. Therefore, this study assessed the experience of war trauma and its effects on anxiety symptoms among high school students in Woldia town, Ethiopia. Objective: We assessed the experience of war trauma and its effects on anxiety among high school students, as well as associated risk factors, in war-affected areas in Woldia town, northeast Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted from May 23 to June 08 2022. Data were collected from high school students in Woldia town. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent factors associated with anxiety. Results: A total of 624 out of 660 students participated in the study (94.5% response rate). The prevalence of anxiety among high school students in Woldia town was 39.7%. In the multivariable analysis, having depression (AOR = 9.24, 95% CI: 6.27, 13.64), witnessing the murder of family/friends (AOR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.05, 3.57), being of female sex (AOR=1.59, 95% CI: 1.08, 2.36), and having a family history of mental illness (AOR=1.69, 95% CI: 1.00, 2.85) were factors significantly associated with anxiety. Conclusions and recommendations: The prevalence of anxiety in this study was approximately two in five high school students. Therefore, we recommend that the Ministry of Education collaborate with the Ministry of Health to expand and implement mental health services in high schools to promote the wellbeing of students for the prevention of anxiety.

Prevalence and associated factors of maternal depression among mothers of children with undernutrition at comprehensive specialized hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia in 2023: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Malnutrition is one of the most significant child health problems in developing countries, accounting for an estimated 53% of child deaths per year. Depression is the leading cause of disease-related disability in women and adversely affects the health and well-being of mothers and their children. Studies have shown that maternal depression has an impact on infant growth and nutritional status. However, evidence is scarce regarding the relationship between maternal depression and child malnutrition. Objectives: The general objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of maternal depression among mothers of undernourished children at comprehensive specialized hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia in 2023. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 465 participants. Outcome variables were assessed using a Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Data were analyzed using SPSS-25. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. Variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The prevalence of maternal depression among mothers of children with undernutrition was 36.4% (95% CI = 32%-41%). According to a multivariate analysis, lack of maternal education (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.872, 95% CI = 1.502-5.492), unemployment (AOR = 2.581, 95% CI = 1.497-4.451), poor social support (AOR = 2.209, 95% CI = 1.314-3.713), perceived stigma (AOR = 2.243, 95% CI = 1.414-3.560), and stunting (AOR = 1.913, 95% CI = 1.129-3.241) were factors significantly associated with maternal depression. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of maternal depression was higher among mothers of children with undernutrition. This higher prevalence was associated with several factors, including lack of education, unemployment, poor social support, high perceived stigma, and stunted physical growth in the children themselves. To decrease maternal depression, we can address these factors by increasing the level of maternal education and employment opportunities, strengthening social support systems, reducing stigma, and providing interventions to reduce stunting.

Prevalence of depression and its associated factors among Ethiopian students: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to estimate the overall pooled prevalence of depression and its associated factors among high school, college and university students in Ethiopia. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Direct, African Journal Online and Google Scholar. The primary articles were searched from 2 April 2023 to 11 May 2023. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Observational studies such as cross-sectional, case-control and cohort studies that reported the prevalence and associated factors of depression among students in Ethiopia were included. Both published and unpublished primary studies were included in this review. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two authors independently extracted all the important data using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and exported it to Stata V.14 for analysis. The statistical heterogeneity among the included articles was assessed by the I2 statistics test. Publication bias was checked using the funnel plot and Egger's regression test. RESULTS: A total of 17 primary studies with 8798 study participants were included in the current study to estimate the combined prevalence of depression. The pooled prevalence of depression among Ethiopian students was 35.52% with a 95% CI (30.54% to 40.51%). Subgroup analysis showed that the pooled prevalence of depression was higher in Addis Ababa, which was 40.43%, with a 95% CI (28.02% to 52.83%). Female sex, first-year educational level, family history of mental illness, alcohol drinking and parental neglect were significantly associated with depression in this study. CONCLUSION: In this review, the overall pooled prevalence of depression among students in Ethiopia was high compared with the general population. Therefore, it is necessary to make more efforts to provide mental healthcare and psychosocial support to students to improve their mental health and decrease the overall burden of depression. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023424301.

Domestic violence and associated factors among pregnant women in sub-Saharan African countries from the recent demographic and health survey data: a multilevel analysis.

Introduction: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a human rights violation that often involves violence against women, which appears to be the most prevalent type of abuse. IPV is a global public health issue with major human rights violations. Pregnant women's IPV needs special consideration because of the possible harm that might happen to mothers and their fetuses. The enormous global public health issue of IPV affects physical, mental, and sexual transgressions. Even though there were studies conducted on IPV among women, few studies were conducted among pregnant women in sub-Saharan African countries. Therefore, this study revealed IPV and associated factors among pregnant women from the recent Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) in sub-Saharan African countries. Methods: Multilevel logistic regression analysis used data from the recent sub-Saharan African countries DHS was carried out using this secondary data. For this study, pregnant women between the ages of 15 and 49 were included; the total sample size was 17,672. Multilevel logistic regression models were calibrated to determine the associated factors at the individual and community level with IPV, with a 95% CI and AOR. Results: The prevalence of IPV among pregnant women in 23 sub-Saharan African countries was 41.94%, with a 95% CI of 40.82 to 43.06%. Poorer and poorest [AOR = 1.92; 95% CI: (1.01, 3.67)] and [AOR = 2.01; 95% CI:(1.02, 3.92)], partner alcohol drink [AOR = 3.37;95% CI:(2.21, 5.14)], and no partner education [AOR = 2.01;95% CI:(1.12, 3.63)] were statistically associated factors with IPV among pregnant women. Conclusion: The prevalence of IPV among pregnant women in sub-Saharan African countries was high (41.94%). Low economic status, partner drinking alcohol, and partner no education were the associated factors of IPV. This finding provides clues for policymakers and other organizations concerned about women.

Magnitude and determinants of gender-based violence among female students in Ethiopian higher educational institutions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Many adolescents are vulnerable to gender-based violence, and it is a major public health issue. Even though the burden of gender-based violence is still high in Ethiopia, there is a lack of summary information to address the problem. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the pooled magnitude and factors associated with gender-based violence among female students in Ethiopian higher educational institutions. Methods: The primary articles were searched using databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and African Journal Online. Articles that assessed the magnitude and factors associated with GBV among female students in Ethiopia were included. A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet was used to extract the data, which was then exported to Stata version 14 for further analysis. The statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 test. Due to heterogeneity, a random effect meta-analysis model was employed. Publication bias was checked through Egger's weighted regression test and funnel plot. Results: This study included twenty-five primary studies with 13,013 participants. The prevalence of lifetime GBV (n = 7), sexual violence (n = 25), and physical violence (n = 7) was found to be 51.42% (42.38, 60.46), 46.53% (39.86, 53.21), and 37.93% (24.68, 51.18), respectively. Witnessing their mother's abuse by their father during childhood, a lack of open discussion in the family about reproductive health and related personal issues, alcohol consumption, and tight family control were some of the factors significantly associated with lifetime gender-based violence. Furthermore, those who had drunken friends, a regular boyfriend, multiple sexual partners, and chat chewing were factors significantly associated with lifetime sexual violence. Conclusions and recommendations: Our findings revealed that half of female students at higher institutions suffered from violence. So it is recommended to provide accessible information about the consequences of GBV and early intervention for students with the above factors. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#recordDetails, identifier CRD42023494760.

Prevalence and associated factors of premenstrual dysphoric disorder among high school students in Finote Selam town, northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is the most prevalent but neglected psychiatric disorder, with somatic symptoms that are severe enough to markedly affect usual daily activities and have a negative impact on mental health and quality of life by affecting female patients' behavior and cognition. Studies regarding premenstrual dysphoric disorder and associated factors among high school students in low- and middle-income countries are limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of PMDD among high school students, and this is pivotal in further investigation. Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 25 to April 17, 2023 using a simple random-sampling technique to select a sample of 564 participants. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder was assessed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Self-administered standardized questionnaires were used to collect data. Result: A total of 548 study participants participated, with a 97.2% response rate. The prevalence of premenstrual dysphoric disorder among high school students was found to be 33.03% (95%CI: 29.20-37.09). In a multivariable analysis, irregular menstruation cycle (AOR = 4.242, 95%CI = 2.182-8.246), depression (AOR = 5.272, 95%CI = 2.779-10.002), having greater than 4 days of menstruation bleeding duration (AOR = 2.138, 95%CI = 1.105-4.138), and high perceived stress (AOR = 3.468, 95%CL = 1.217-9.880) were the factors significantly associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of PMDD which was one-third among high school students was high. Moreover, long duration of menstruation bleeding, depressive symptoms, irregular menstruation cycle, and high perceived stress were significant factors in PMDD. Therefore, it needs early screening and intervention in primary healthcare settings, especially for those who have high perceived stress, having depression, having a long duration of menstruation bleeding, and having an irregular menstruation cycle, so as to have good academic achievement and psychological wellbeing.

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.

Exposure to stress-full life events and help-seeking behaviors among reproductive-age women in Northwest Ethiopia: Community-based cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Stressful life events are a significant public health issue worldwide. Despite its mental, psychological, and social problems, important questions about the prevalence and risk factors remained unanswered. Therefore, this study aimed to show major life events and help-seeking behaviors among women in the reproductive-age group. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted using a multistage cluster sampling technique to get a total of 845 study participants from March 20 to April 29, 2021. Exposure to stressful life events and help-seeking behavior was collected using Women's Exposure to the Stressful Life Events Test, and General Help-Seeking Questionnaire (GHQ) respectively. Data were cleaned, coded, and entered into EPI-Info version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 20. RESULTS: The prevalence of stressful life events and help-seeking behaviors was 47.9 % and 38.7 % respectively. Reproductive-age women with poor social support (AOR = 2.392, 95 % CI: 1.422, 4.026), moderate social support (AOR = 1.861, 95 % CI: 1.341, 2.583), husband alcohol users (AOR = 1.496, 95 % CI: 1.027, 2.178), husband chat users (AOR = 2.962, 95 % CI: 1.140, 7.696), and having ever suicidal attempt (AOR = 8.702, CI: 1.719, 44.049), were positively associated with stressful life events. CONCLUSION: Nearly half of reproductive-age women had stressful life events. Thus, it is important to give serious attention to addressing those identified factors to increase public awareness, especially among husbands, their families, and elected authorities.

Prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms among patients with epilepsy in Ethiopia: a national-based systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Depression is a major public health problem and negatively affects the quality of life of patients with epilepsy. Despite multiple studies investigating the magnitude and predictors, the results have been inconsistent. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms among patients with epilepsy in Ethiopia. Methods: The primary articles were searched using databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and African Journal Online. A total of 10 primary articles that assessed the prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms among patients with epilepsy in Ethiopia were included. A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet was used to extract the data, which was then exported to Stata version 14 for further analysis. The statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 test. Due to heterogeneity, a random effect meta-analysis model was employed. Publication bias was checked through Egger's weighted regression test and funnel plot. Results: A total of 10 primary studies with 3,532 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms among patients with epilepsy was found to be 41.69% (95% CI, 37.70, 45.68). The pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms was 48.61, 42.98, 40.68, 38.27, and 34.80% in Oromia, SNNPs, Amhara, Addis Ababa, and Tigray, respectively, based on a sub-group analysis per regional state. Perceived stigma (AOR = 3.30, 95% CI: 1.40, 7.80), seizure frequency (AOR = 3.81, 95% CI: 1.03, 14.09), and perceived stress (AOR = 4.6, 95% CI: 1.05, 20.06) were factors associated with depressive symptoms. Conclusion: We found that depressive symptoms affects at least four out of ten patients with epilepsy, indicating an immense burden. Depressive symptoms were extremely prevalent in those who had high levels of stigma, a monthly seizure frequency of once or more, and perceived stress. Therefore, physicians should take extra precautions when treating patients with epilepsy who have certain conditions. Systematic review registration: This study was registered according to The International Prospective Register of Systemic Review (PROSPERO) with the registration ID (CRD42023484308).

Post-traumatic stress disorder in the Ethiopian population dwelling in war-affected communities: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health concern globally, particularly prevalent in populations exposed to war and conflict. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to examine the prevalence and factors associated with PTSD among the Ethiopian population residing in war-affected communities. Methods: The review was reported according to the PRISMA guidelines. Related eligible published articles were searched in electronic online databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Google, which reported the prevalence and risk factors of PTSD among people dwelling in the war-affected area until January 2024. The relevant data was extracted using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The meta-analysis was conducted using STATA version 11. The estimated pooled prevalence and risk factors were estimated using a random effect model. The potential risk of publication bias was checked using a funnel plot and Egger's statistical test. Results: A total of nine published studies with 6107 participants were analyzed in this meta-analysis. The estimated pooled prevalence of PTSD among people living in war-affected areas was 48.4%, with a 95% CI (37.1, 59.8). This study found a higher prevalence of PTSD among women than men. Being female (OR= 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2, 4.3), witnessing a murder of a loved one (OR= 3.0, 95% CI: 1.2, 7.5), depression symptoms (OR= 2.8, 95% CI: 1.4, 5.6), and anxiety symptoms (OR= 3.4, 95% CI: 1.4, 8.0), a close family member killed or seriously injured (OR= 3.1, 95% CI: 1.2, 7.7), a moderate and high perceived threat to life (OR= 3.4, 95% CI: 1.3, 9.1), and poor social support (OR= 4.4, 95% CI: 1.1, 18.7) were associated with post-traumatic stress disorder. Conclusion: The result of this study shows the high prevalence rate of PTSD in people living in war-affected areas. disparities in PTSD prevalence, with women being at higher risk, and identified risk factors were witnessing the murder of a loved one, experiencing depression and anxiety, and perceived threat to life. Addressing PTSD in war-affected communities requires comprehensive interventions that consider both individual and contextual factors. Systematic review registration: www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024501384.

Sexual dysfunction among people with mental illness in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis study.

BACKGROUND: Sexual dysfunction is the most frequent health problem among psychiatric patients. This could be the result of both the nature of the illness itself and the side effects of prescribed psychotropic medications. It also significantly affects an individual's general well-being, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, and treatment outcomes. Therefore, the current systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the combined prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its correlated factors among people with mental illness. METHODS: We retrieved eligible primary studies using various search databases like PubMed, EMBASE, Science Direct, African Journal Online, Google Scholar, and Psychiatry Online. The report of this systematic review was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. We used standardized data extraction checklists and STATA version 14 for data extraction and analysis, respectively. The I-squared statistics test was used to check statistical heterogeneity within the included articles. Publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot and the Egger test. To estimate the overall prevalence and correlated factors of sexual dysfunction, a random effects model meta-analysis was employed. RESULTS: In this meta-analysis, a total of 15 primary studies with 2849 psychiatric patients were included. The overall pooled prevalence of sexual dysfunction among psychiatric patients in Africa was 58.42% (95% CI: 49.55, 67.28). Having older age (OR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.28, 2.87), longer duration of illness (OR = 2.60, 95% CI: 1.14, 5.93), history of relapse (OR = 3.51, 95% CI: 1.47, 8.43), poor quality of life (OR = 3.89, 95% CI: 2.15, 7.05), and antipsychotic medications (OR = 2.99, 95% CI: 1.84, 4.86) were significantly associated with sexual dysfunction. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis revealed that approximately two-thirds of psychiatric patients in Africa are affected by sexual dysfunction. Therefore, the findings of this study recommend that when evaluating psychiatric patients, health professionals should focus more on sexual dysfunction. It is also essential to promote awareness and incorporate sexual health assessment and intervention into mental health services to reduce the overall burden of the problem.

Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and its associated factors in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Clinical research and epidemiological studies have shown that many women experience physical and behavioral symptoms that begin during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and terminate around the onset of menses; this is called premenstrual syndrome. The reviews stated that the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome was around 50 percent. However, there has been no review done on premenstrual syndrome in Africa. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarize the most recent data evidence on the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and its pooled effect of associated factors in Africa. Method: We used an appropriate guideline for systematic reviews and meta-analyses reports, which is the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). This review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023414021). The publications were identified from PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Scopus databases, and other grey searches. The included papers were the original data that reported the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and associated factors published, in English, and papers available online from January 1, 2000, to May 30, 2023. The data was extracted in Microsoft Excel, and then it would be imported into STATA 11.0 for analysis. Results: We have included 16 studies conducted in African countries with 6530 study participants. In this meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome among the reproductive-age participants in Africa was 46.98 (95% CI: 28.9-65.06%). Further, in subgroup analysis, the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome was 57.32% in Nigeria, 43.8% in Ethiopia, and 38.6% among university students and 66.04% among secondary school students. Among associated factors, the early age of menarche was significantly related to premenstrual syndrome. Conclusion: In this review, the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome in Africa was high. Among factors, the early age of menarche was a risk factor for premenstrual syndrome. This finding might help the stakeholders (mental health policy makers, administrators, and mental health professionals) to address prevention, early screening, and management of PMS among reproductive-age women, and to give attention to more vulnerable bodies. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023414021.

HIV-related perceived stigma and internalized stigma among people living with HIV/AIDS in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: HIV-related stigma has significant adverse impacts on people living with HIV/AIDS, such as psychological distress, decreased quality of life, a reluctance to get screened and treated, and a reluctance to disclose their status due to fear of stereotypes or rejection. OBJECTIVES: To determine the pooled prevalence and factors associated with HIV-related perceived stigma and internalized stigma among people living with HIV/AIDS in Africa. METHODS: Articles that assessed the prevalence and associated factors of HIV-related perceived stigma and internalized stigma were reviewed. PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, African Journal Online, CINAHL, and Science Direct were the databases used to search the primary studies. The data was extracted through a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and exported to STATA version 14 for further analysis. The I2 test was applied to test heterogeneity, whereas Egger's test and funnel plot were used to check publication bias. RESULTS: In this study, the total sample size was 28,355 (for perceived stigma) and 22,732 (for internalized stigma). The overall pooled prevalence of HIV-related perceived stigma and internalized stigma was determined to be 41.23% and 35.68%, respectively. Based on the subgroup analysis results, the highest pooled prevalence of perceived stigma was observed in Nigeria (50.04%), followed by Ethiopia (41.72%), while the highest prevalence of internalized stigma was observed in Ethiopia (56.13%), followed by Cameroon (44.66%). Females (OR = 1.63: 1.31, 2.02) and rural dwellers (OR = 1.93: 1.36, 2.74) had more odds of experiencing HIV-related perceived stigma. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: This study concluded that four in ten and more than one-third of people living with HIV/AIDS suffered from perceived and internalized stigma. Thus, special considerations must be given to women and rural dwellers. It is recommended to implement multi-level interventions and foster empowerment and support for individuals living with HIV.