Barriers and facilitators for people with severe mental illness accessing cancer screening: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: Evidence suggests that people with severe mental illness (PwSMI) are 2.1 times more likely to die from cancer before the age of 75, compared to people without Severe mental illness (SMI). Yet, cancer screening uptake is low among PwSMI. This mixed-methods systematic review aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators for PwSMI deciding to access and attend primary cancer screening of the cervix, breast and colon. METHODS: Six electronic databases and two grey literature sources were searched, with 1017 records screened against inclusion criteria. Included papers were appraised and data synthesised using the constructs of Normalisation Process Theory. RESULTS: Twenty papers met the inclusion criteria. Factors that impact upon uptake of PwSMI accessing cancer screening were found to include age, gender, race, and income. Common barriers to attending screening included poor communication from healthcare staff, stigmatising attitudes, and accessibility problems such as no access to transportation. While, facilitators included social support from friends, family, and healthcare providers. CONCLUSIONS: Due to ease and privacy, colorectal screening was found to have fewer barriers when compared to cervical and breast screening. The review identified multiple barriers that can be addressed and targeted to support decision-making for cancer screening among PwSMI. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022331781).

Assessment of patterns and related factors in using social media platforms to access health and oral health information among Sri Lankan adults, with special emphasis on promoting oral health awareness.

BACKGROUND: Social media has evolved beyond its conventional purpose of communication and information sharing to become a potent tool for disseminating health and oral health awareness. This study seeks to assess the patterns and related factors of using social media platforms to access health and oral health information among Sri Lankan adults, with special emphasis to promotion of oral health awareness. METHODS: In March 2023, individuals aged ≥ 18 years residing in Sri Lanka, who are users of social media participated in this electronic questionnaire-based survey. Statistical analyses of the collected data were done using the SPSS version 21 software, with a p-value of < 0.05 set to determine the level of statistical significance. RESULTS: A total of 421 persons participated in this survey. Majority (68.4%) belonged to the age category of 18 to 30 years, and 55.5% were females. WhatsApp (96.8%) was the most frequently used social media platform across all age groups and both genders. Statistically significant differences were identified between genders in the usage of Telegram, Twitter, and Viber within the 18-30 years age category, with a higher percentage of males using these platforms (p ≤ 0.05). Similar significant differences were observed in the 31-40 years age group for WhatsApp and Telegram (p ≤ 0.05). Among 95.4% of online health information seekers, YouTube (74.9%) was the most popular platform. One-quarter of the respondents preferred social media platforms, and 22.3% preferred websites for obtaining oral health information. Furthermore, 74.9% had positive opinions on obtaining oral health information via social media, while only 17% reported pleasant experiences with social media platforms for oral health promotion. In assessing the reliability of oral health information on social media, 48% relied on the quality of the information. The most preferred source of oral health information was short videos from professionals (43.1%). Additionally, 69.5% reported changes in their oral health behaviours after accessing information through social media. CONCLUSION: Social media is a viable platform for promoting public oral health awareness in Sri Lankan; hence, workable strategies need to be employed, to further ensure its effective and wider use in a culturally and socioeconomically diverse country like Sri Lanka.

Quality of life of patients treated with robotic surgery in the oral and maxillofacial region: a scoping review of empirical evidence.

BACKGROUND: There is a blooming trend in the application of robotic surgery in oral and maxillofacial care, and different studies had evaluated the quality of life (QoL) outcomes among patients who underwent robotic surgery in the oral and maxillofacial region. However, empirical evidence on the QoL outcomes from these procedures is yet to be mapped. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the available scientific evidence and gaps concerning the QoL outcomes of patients treated with robotic surgery in the oral and maxillofacial region. METHODS: This study adopted a scoping review design, and it was conducted and reported based on the Arksey and O'Malley, PRISMA-ScR, and AMSTAR-2 guidelines. SCOPUS, PubMed, CINAHL Complete, and APA PsycINFO were searched to retrieve relevant literature. Using Rayyan software, the retrieved literature were deduplicated, and screened based on the review's eligibility criteria. Only the eligible articles were included in the review. From the included articles, relevant data were charted, collated, and summarized. RESULTS: A total of 123 literature were retrieved from the literature search. After deduplication and screening, only 18 heterogeneous original articles were included in the review. A total of 771 transoral robotic surgeries (TORSs) were reported in these articles, and the TORSs were conducted on patients with oropharyngeal carcinomas (OPC), recurrent tonsillitis, and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). In total, 20 different QoL instruments were used in these articles to assess patients' QoL outcomes, and the most used instrument was the MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory Questionnaire (MDADI). Physical functions related to swallowing, speech and salivary functions were the most assessed QoL aspects. TORS was reported to result in improved QOL in patients with OPC, OSA, and recurrent tonsillitis, most significantly within the first postoperative year. Notably, the site of the lesion, involvement of neck dissections and the characteristics of the adjuvant therapy seemed to affect the QOL outcome in patients with OPC. CONCLUSION: Compared to the conventional treatment modalities, TORS has demonstrated better QoL, mostly in the domains related to oral functions such as swallowing and speech, among patients treated with such. This improvement was most evident within the initial post-operative year.

Understanding and experience of adverse event following immunization (AEFI) and its consequences among healthcare providers in Kebbi State, Nigeria: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Vaccines used in the national immunization program are relatively safe and effective. However, no vaccine is perfectly safe. Therefore, adverse reactions may occur. This study aimed to investigate the understanding and experience of Adverse Event Following Immunization (AEFI) among healthcare workers and Routine Immunization (RI) officers. METHODS: Phenomenological qualitative study was conducted between June and September 2019, using a semi-structured question guide in Kebbi State, Northwest Nigeria. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 12 RI providers, eight Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) officers, and eight Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The interviews were transcribed and translated, then manually analyzed thematically. RESULTS: The knowledge level of healthcare providers on AEFI definition and classification varied and was suboptimal. Error during vaccination was the study participants' most frequently mentioned possible cause of AEFI. Persistent crying, fever, fainting, and swelling and tenderness at injection sites were the AEFI experienced by the healthcare providers in their careers. Block rejection, lower immunization uptake, loss of confidence in RI, attack on RI providers, discrimination of RI providers and divorce threats among spouses were the consequences of AEFI. Supportive supervision of the RI sessions, refresher training on safe injection for RI providers, and symptomatic treatment of clients with AEFI would prevent AEFI consequences. Also, educating caregivers, community sensitization, and dialogue would minimize the consequences of AEFI. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence of a sub-optimal understanding of AEFI was established in this study. Hence, policymakers should consider regular refresher training on AEFI to ensure all RI providers have an optimal understanding of AEFI. Health education of caregivers and parents during RI sessions and community engagement should be considered to minimise AEFI consequences on the immunization program and the society.

Profile and determinants of intention to migrate by early career doctors in Nigeria: A report from CHARTING study.

INTRODUCTION: Recently, there has been an upsurge in the migration of medical personnel, especially early career doctors (ECDs) from low- and middle-income countries, Nigeria inclusive, to high-income countries with wide-ranging consequences on the social and economic systems of the donor countries. This study assessed the profile and determinants of intention to emigrate by ECDs in Nigeria. METHODS: A cross-sectional study conducted among Nigerian ECDs from nine tertiary hospitals. Socio-demographic characteristics, intention & reasons to emigrate and willingness to return were collected using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. RESULTS: A total number of 763 ECDs participated in the study. The majority (88.2%) were less than 40 years of age and the male to female ratio was 2:1. Majority of the participants (69.4%) received monthly income ≤833 US Dollar. About two-thirds of ECDs had plans to emigrate and most to developed countries. Common reasons for intention to migrate were better quality of postgraduate training, improved quality of life and better remuneration. CONCLUSION: High proportion of Nigerian ECDs has intention to emigrate out with potential adverse effect on the fragile health system in the country.

Theories, determinants, and intervention models and approaches on inequalities of undernutrition amongst under fives: A literature review.

Background and Aims: One of the greatest public health problems of the 21st century is undernutrition in children under the age of 5 years (CAUFY). Globally, over 232 million CUAFY are undernourished and approximately 45% of mortality in this population are undernutrition-induced. This paper reviewed and critically explained the factors perpetuating undernutrition in CUAFY in the global space. It further explained the multi-level determinants that influence health inequalities and consequently exacerbate undernutrition amongst CUAFY globally. It also went further to explain the intervention models and approaches that can be used to tackle undernutrition in CUAFY. Methods/Literature Search Strategy: Demiris et al.'s approach to narrative review was utilized for this paper. Relevant articles on child nutrition were retrieved from multiple credible databases and websites of foremost health organizations. Using an iterative process, multiple combinations of search terms were done by stringing relevant key terms and their synonyms with Boolean Operators. This process was constantly refined to align search results with the study aim. Database search produced relevant and resourceful publications which were utilized to develop this review. Results: The global burden of undernutrition remains high, especially in Oceania with the highest prevalence of stunting and wasting (41.4% and 12.5%), with Africa and Asia following closely. Malnutrition eradication is a global health issue of high priority as demonstrated by the "Goal 2" of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the United Nations (UN) Decade of Action on Nutrition 2016-2025. The review identified no significant positive outcome from previous interventions due to the endemic health inequalities. Determinants of the multi-level health inequalities associated with undernutrition in CUAFY, and probable solutions are explained with theoretical models of health inequalities. A diagonal intervention approach was proposed as a viable solution to ending undernutrition in CUAFY. Conclusion: The application of relevant theoretical models and context-specific intervention approaches can be utilized by stakeholders to close the existing inequality gaps, thereby reducing undernutrition amongst CUAFY globally.

E-cigarettes in Nigeria: A scoping review of evidence.

Background and Aims: E-cigarettes will continue to be a public health issue in Nigeria. To curb the growing menace of the e-cigarette use in Nigeria through evidence-based approach, it is crucial to first map the empirical research landscape of e-cigarettes in Nigeria. No known study has mapped the existing empirical evidence and gaps concerning e-cigarettes in Nigeria; hence, this scoping review was conducted. Methods: This scoping review adopted the research design by Arksey and O'Malley. Four databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL Complete, and APA PsycINFO) were searched to retrieve literature on e-cigarettes in Nigeria. With the aid of Rayyan web application, all retrieved literature were deduplicated and screened based on the review's eligibility criteria. Only those peer-reviewed journal papers meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the review. Relevant data from the included papers were charted, collated, and summarized. Results: A total of six papers were included in this review. The reviewed papers reported a lifetime prevalence of e-cigarette use (or vaping) ranging from 5.8% to 19.8%, with a current e-cigarette use prevalence of 11.8%, among different population groups in Nigeria. The major determinants of e-cigarette use, as reported in these articles, include being a youth, having a health condition, severe anxiety, tobacco use, peer influence, and current alcohol use. Dry mouth and oral lesions (gingival inflammation and oral ulcers) were also identified to be the medical conditions associated with e-cigarette use in Nigeria. Lastly, one of the included papers identified a lack of clear regulation on e-cigarettes in Nigeria. Conclusion: There is an urgent need for more scientific investigations on the sociodemographic, economic, health, and regulatory landscape of e-cigarettes in Nigeria, as robust empirical evidence is needed for the effective planning, implementation, and evaluation of evidence-based policies and interventions on e-cigarettes control and regulation in Nigeria.

Sociocultural context of exclusive breastfeeding in Africa: A narrative review.

Background and Aims: Although exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) has many benefits, it is not commonly practiced in several countries as a result of context-specific challenges. EBF practice is thus a global health discourse because over 200 million children suffer from malnutrition despite the abundance of human milk. The risk of starvation remains very high among African children with less than 40% of them exclusively breastfed. In Africa, the adoption or nonadherence to EBF is a sociocultural issue. Hence, this narrative review examined the sociocultural context of EBF in the region. Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus were searched using keywords related to EBF and Africa. Relevant data from selected studies were synthesized narratively and reported using a structured narrative format. Results: EBF is strongly rooted in every culture and is a culturally determined behavior. Some believe that colostrum is dirty and harmful to newborns and, thus, needs to be purified. Despite the belief that human milk is the best food for babies, mothers often complement human milk with other foods right from birth because of perceived lactation inadequacy. Most African mothers believe in prelacteal feeding to help cleanse the infant's gastrointestinal tract for digestion, quench thirst, flush the bladder and help the mother to rest after childbirth before breastfeeding (BF) is initiated. The role of significant others was equally found important in the decision and duration of BF. The availability of family support (especially from grandmothers and husbands) reportedly encouraged EBF in Africa. The duration and exclusivity of BF in Africa are negatively associated with demographic variables like young age, low level of education, being unmarried, low income, out of employment, and parity (first-time mother). Conclusion: While there have been some efforts and policies to improve EBF, it is important to consider context-specific challenges and sociocultural factors. There is a need for more deliberate efforts to encourage mothers through the implementation of effective best practices concerning EBF in Africa.

Prevalence and Causes of Blindness and Visual Impairment Among Nigerian Children: A Systematic Review.

Background: Low/middle-income countries have the highest burden of blindeness and visual impairment, which directly affects the children and indirectly affects their community. Furthermore, the number of blind years suffered by children with low vision or blindness creates a self-perpetuating ripple effect on their development, health and the socio-economic development of their communities. This systematic review aims to interrogate the existing evidence on the prevalence and causes of blindness and visual impairment in Nigerian children to provide evidence to drive health policy. Methods: This was a systematic review without meta-analysis (SwiM) using a narrative synthesis of the evidence reported using the PRISMA guidelines. All primary cross-sectional studies (in English) reporting the prevalence and causes of visual impairment among Nigerian children under 20 years old between 2003 and 2022 were included in this review. PUBMED, AJOL, BASE and ProQuest databases were searched for eligible studies between 6 June and 15 July 2023. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the AXIS tool. Results were extracted and summarised using descriptive statistics. Visual impairment and blindness using the presenting visual acuity in the better eye were reported using the WHO classification. Results: Seventeen studies, involving 16,924 children from 13 states across five geo-political zones in Nigeria, were included in the final analysis of this review. The prevalence of visual impairment was 3.9%, 2.7% and 0.3% for mild, moderate and severe visual impairments, respectively, due to ametropia, cataracts, glaucoma, etc. The prevalence of blindness was 0.2% due to cataracts, corneal scars and optic atrophy. Conclusion: Blindness and visual impairment is still a significant clinical and public health burden among Nigerian children. Hence, there is still a need for clinicians, especially opthalmologists, public health specialists, policy-makers, and other relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts towards the prevention and control of this burden.

Strategies adopted by oral physicians, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and oral pathologists in patient education on oral cancer: A Nigerian study.

BACKGROUND: The burden of oral cancer in Nigeria is increasing. Different studies have shown how public education on oral cancer have increased knowledge of oral cancer across populations, however, it is not known if these practices are adopted by oral physicians, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and oral pathologists in Nigeria. AIMS: To investigate the patient oral cancer education strategies adopted by oral physicians, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and oral pathologists in Nigeria. METHODS: This study adopted an analytical cross-sectional study design. This study surveyed practicing oral physicians, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and oral pathologists in Nigeria. An e-questionnaire was used for this study. The data were analyzed using the SPSS Version 20 software, and a p-value of <.05 was used to determine the level of statistical significance. RESULTS: The study's response rate was 46.6% (75/161). The 75 participants were from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria responded to the survey questionnaire. Even though more than half (43/75, 57.3%) of the respondents have never received any training since their post-bachelor's degree qualification on the strategies that can be used in educating patients on oral cancer, majority (54/75, 72.0%) of them knew at least one education strategy; also, the most known (36/54, 66.7%) and utilized (33/54, 61.3%) strategy among those respondents who were aware of patient education strategy was health talk. Only 38.7% (29/75) of the respondents reported that health learning materials (posters, leaflets, fliers, and flipcharts) are available in their clinics, all of which were in insufficient quantities. Also, 93.3% (70/75) of the respondents opined that it is worthwhile that dental clinics/hospitals in Nigeria invest in the provision of oral cancer learning materials for patient use. Inferential statistical analysis did not reveal any significant relationship between the respondents' characteristics and their awareness and practice on patient oral cancer education strategies. CONCLUSION: This study identified that many oral physicians, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and oral pathologists in Nigeria lack the needed capacity to educate their patients on oral cancer. There is a need to strengthen their capacity by giving them training on patient oral cancer education strategies, and by providing them with good quality and enough teaching aids.

A rare case of Gardner syndrome in an African adult male: A case report.

Gardner's syndrome with the complete manifestation of colonic and extracolonic features is uncommon. Therefore, every clinician should view extracolonic features with a high index of suspicion. This may be key to early diagnosis, definitive management in these patients and importantly, helps prevent malignant transformation of existing colonic polyps.

Developments and future prospects of personalized medicine in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma diagnoses and treatments.

BACKGROUND: Precision healthcare has entered a new era because of the developments in personalized medicine, especially in the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This paper explores the dynamic landscape of personalized medicine as applied to HNSCC, encompassing both current developments and future prospects. RECENT FINDINGS: The integration of personalized medicine strategies into HNSCC diagnosis is driven by the utilization of genetic data and biomarkers. Epigenetic biomarkers, which reflect modifications to DNA that can influence gene expression, have emerged as valuable indicators for early detection and risk assessment. Treatment approaches within the personalized medicine framework are equally promising. Immunotherapy, gene silencing, and editing techniques, including RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9, offer innovative means to modulate gene expression and correct genetic aberrations driving HNSCC. The integration of stem cell research with personalized medicine presents opportunities for tailored regenerative approaches. The synergy between personalized medicine and technological advancements is exemplified by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications. These tools empower clinicians to analyze vast datasets, predict patient responses, and optimize treatment strategies with unprecedented accuracy. CONCLUSION: The developments and prospects of personalized medicine in HNSCC diagnosis and treatment offer a transformative approach to managing this complex malignancy. By harnessing genetic insights, biomarkers, immunotherapy, gene editing, stem cell therapies, and advanced technologies like AI and ML, personalized medicine holds the key to enhancing patient outcomes and ushering in a new era of precision oncology.

Noma: a PubMed-based informetric analysis of a neglected tropical orofacial disease in Nigeria.

Noma is an orofacial gangrenous infection commonly affecting malnourished children in the tropical region of the World, particularly the sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria is a sub-Saharan African country which is among the countries seriously affected by noma. In Nigeria, noma has been classified as a priority disease. However, only very little attention has been focused on noma research in Nigeria, unlike many other priority diseases. This study conducted an informetric analysis of research outputs on noma in Nigeria, using the PubMed database - a world-leading and authoritative database of medical literature. This study revealed that only 26 PubMed-indexed publications on noma (PONs), published between January 1990 and September 2021, were available. A trend analysis of these PONs showed that the average output (outputs from 1999 to 2020 = 23) rate per year (from 1990 to 2020 [31 years]) was 0.74 (23/31). Sokoto (n = 11), Oyo (n = 4) and Kebbi (n = 3) were the top three Nigerian states surveyed on noma in the included PONs. Only 12 publications had international co-authors, of which only few publications had co-authors affiliated with institutions in other African countries: South Africa - 5 publications; and Rwanda - 2 publications. Only two publications were funded. Also, the top five prolific Nigerian authors on noma in Nigeria were affiliated with Noma Children Hospital, Sokoto State, Nigeria. In conclusion, PONs by Nigerian authors is so meagre in quantity. This low output is an issue of medical concern. More research focused on noma in Nigeria is needed through funding and other research capacity-strengthening measures.

The roles of chaplains in dispelling cancer myths in Nigeria: A narrative review.

Background and Aims: The epidemiological burden of cancer in Africa, and Nigeria in particular, has been increasing significantly over the past few decades due to exposure to numerous risk factors as well as belief in various myths and misconceptions. Chaplains can play crucial roles in dispelling these myths and misconceptions about cancer among people. Therefore, this study seeks to review the epidemiological burden, risk factors, and myths relating to cancer and the roles of chaplains in dispelling cancer myths in Nigeria. Methods: This paper is a narrative review that relied on secondary sources obtained through a thorough literature search of relevant articles on multiple electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. Published books, journal articles, and other published materials that were written in English were consulted in line with the objectives of this study. Both theoretical and empirical papers were used for this review. Results: Cancers are associated with risk factors including exposure to chemicals, ultraviolet radiation, harmful tobacco and alcohol use, exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV), and these factors may vary with age, cultural beliefs (myths and misconceptions), and socioeconomic factors among others. Chaplains, however, have crucial roles to play in dispelling cancer myths in Nigeria. These roles include counseling, advocacy, education, and psycho-social support which may be limited by challenges such as spiritual ambiguity, inadequate training of healthcare providers and limited time/resources. These challenges can be addressed by training healthcare providers and incorporating chaplain practice in Nigerian healthcare. Conclusion: The role of chaplains in dispelling cancer myths in Nigeria is crucial despite the numerous challenges. Hence, an urgent address of these challenges will be instrumental in ensuring effective chaplain practice in Nigeria.

Polio-philanthropy in Africa: A narrative review.

Background and Aim: Polio eradication efforts including polio-philanthropy have been coordinated and sustained since 1988, with the introduction of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI). The polio fight is sustained in the name of evidence-based benevolence or beneficent philanthropy from which Africa has benefited immensely. With the recorded polio cases as of 2023, more efforts and funds are required to eradicate polio. Hence, it is not yet "Uhuru." Using the Mertonian lens, this study examines polio-philanthropy in Africa, its unintended consequences, and crucial dilemmas, which could impact the polio fight and polio-philanthropy. Methods: This is a narrative review that relies on secondary sources obtained through a thorough literature search. Only studies published in English were utilized. The study synthesized relevant literature in line with the study objective. The following databases were consulted: PubMed, philosopher's index, web of knowledge, Google Scholar, and Sociological Abstracts. Both empirical and theoretical studies were utilized for the study. Results: Despite significant achievements, the global initiative has shortcomings when examined through the Mertonian lens of manifest and latent functions. The GPEI sets a unilinear goal within multiple challenges. The activities of the philanthropic giants manifest in disempowering rigor, multisectoral neglect, and parallel (health) systems, sometimes, inimical to the national health system. Most philanthropic giants often operate vertically. It is observed that, apart from funding, the last phase of polio-philanthropy will be defined by some crucial factors, the 4Cs: Communicable disease outbreaks, Conflict, Climate-related disasters, and Conspiracy theory, which could impact the prevalence or resurgence of polio. Conclusion: The polio fight will benefit from the persistent drive to reach the finish line as scheduled. The latent consequences or dysfunctions are general lessons for GPEI and other global health initiatives. Therefore, decision-makers should calculate the net balance of consequences within global health philanthropy for appropriate mitigation.

Research on natal and neonatal teeth in Africa: A systematic scoping review of empirical evidence.

Background and Aims: In Africa, natal and neonatal teeth is a culture-bound phenomenon which is associated with several sociocultural connotations which might affect child survival. Different empirical studies have been conducted in Africa on natal and neonatal teeth; however, no known scoping review has been conducted to map the empirical evidence. This systematic scoping review (SSR) aims to document the available empirical evidence, research gaps, and hotspots on neonatal and natal teeth in Africa. Methods: The methodology of this SSR was informed by the Joanna Brigg's Institute guidelines for SSRs, and it was reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. Eleven research databases were systematically searched to scooped out all literatures relevant to the scoping review question, after which they were screened for eligibility based on the review's selection criteria. Only the eligible literatures were included in the review. Data were extracted from the included literatures, after which the extracted data were collated, summarized, and presented as results. Results: This review included only three journal articles. All the reviewed articles revealed knowledge gaps about natal/neonatal teeth. These articles also found misconceptions around natal/neonatal teeth; for example, nurses' and traditional birth attendants' beliefs about these teeth are contrary to scientifically known facts. Multiple myths associated with natal/neonatal teeth, as indicated in the reviewed studies, point to a poor understanding of the condition. Conclusion: Neonates and infants are highly vulnerable persons; they require care and safeguarding from dental myths that could threaten their survival. Educative information concerning natal/neonatal teeth should be included in public health education programs to address the observed knowledge gaps among African populations and correct wrong beliefs on neonatal and natal teeth.

Dental caries in Rwanda: A scoping review.

Background and Aims: Dental caries is an infectious disease affecting virtually all nations, including Rwanda. In Rwanda, the burden of dental caries is an issue of public health concern. To ensure the progressive eradication of the current dental caries burden in Rwanda through an evidence-based approach, it is imperative to have an overview of the scientific research landscape of dental caries in the country. This study-a scoping review-aims to review the available evidence and gaps on dental caries in Rwanda. Methods: This scoping review was reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. A systematic search of 11 databases was done to scoop out all literature relevant to the topic. Based on the review's selection criteria, a total of eight peer-reviewed journal articles were included in the review. The extracted data were collated, summarized, and presented as results. Results: The analysis of the data extracted from the included articles revealed a high prevalence of dental caries (ranging from 42.42% to 71.5%) in Rwanda. Also, the major pathogens causing dental caries in Rwanda as well as the impact of dental caries on the physical health and quality of life of Rwandans were identified in this review. Furthermore, the reported operative treatment options for dental caries in Rwanda were predominantly nonconservative. Also, no intervention study has been conducted on dental caries in Rwanda. Conclusion: The findings in this review identify the need for massive public health interventions on dental caries in Rwanda.

Euthanasia in Africa: A scoping review of empirical evidence.

Background and Aims: The core ethical perplexity is that physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia (PAS/E) contradicts the core value of medical practice which is about the duty of care to preserve life. While most arguments for and against euthanasia emerge from other continents, no African country legalizes or decriminalizes PAS/E. The essence of this scoping review is to collate evidence and scientific voices on euthanasia in Africa by synthesizing empirical articles on the subject in Africa. Methods: In this scoping review, a systematic search of five electronic research databases-PubMed, SCOPUS, CINHAL Complete, Allied and Complementary Medicine (AMED), and APA PsycInfo-was conducted to identify relevant articles conducted in Africa on euthanasia. After deduplication with the Rayyan software, the retrieved literature were screened for eligibility, and only eligible articles were included in the review. Relevant data from these articles were extracted and analyzed using narrative synthesis. Results: Only 14 articles reporting empirical studies, conducted in Africa, and published in English, were included in the review after a rigorous screening process. The review shows a wide rejection of euthanasia, but there is not much resistance to passive euthanasia, that is, withholding/withdrawing life-saving medical care from a terminally ill patient, mostly due to advanced age of the patient and the incurability of the illness. Many factors, such as religion, profession, and age help in shaping the way an individual view and understand PAS/E. Professionals take the patient's clinical condition and sociocultural context into consideration when making decisions about end-of-life care. The sociocultural context did not favor PAS/E. Conclusion: Euthanasia will continue to be a subject of controversy and debate in Africa and elsewhere. The majority of Africans hold the duty of care and preservation of life as the hallmark of medical practice, which informs the wide rejection of PAS/E.

School-based interventions on Mpox: A scoping review.

Background and Aims: The 2022 multicountry mpox outbreak necessitated the declaration of mpox as a public health emergency. This is the first time a wide mpox spread and human-to-human transmission are recorded in several countries outside West and Central Africa. The outbreak reveals a strong need for wider intervention to increase awareness and control measures on mpox, especially in schools. This scoping review aims to summarize the existing evidence concerning school-based interventions on mpox globally. Methods: The review methodology was based on the Arksey and O'Malley guidelines and it was reported in strict adherence with the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Ten databases were searched to retrieve literature relevant to the review topic. Thereafter, the retrieved literature were deduplicated and screened for inclusion into the review based on a set of eligibility criteria. Only one journal paper, a short communication on the national monkeypox outbreak in England, satisfied the selection criteria and was included in the review. Data extracted from the included paper were collated, summarized, and presented. Results: The paper described how suspected cases of mpox infection were managed in some school settings through vaccination and self-isolation approaches and revealed a low (11%) mpox vaccination uptake rate in school-setting. The preventive methods adopted, such as the exclusion of exposed persons from school (in three school settings) and separation of those exposed those who were not in contact with the affected persons (one school setting), played a major role in the low transmission rate reported. This review also found a huge dearth of literature on school-based interventions on mpox despite its global spread. Conclusion: With the call for a multisectoral approach in the fight against mpox, it pays to leverage on the potential of school settings in public health actions against mpox.