Prevalence and pattern of rheumatic valvular heart disease in Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis, 2015-2023, population based studies.

BACKGROUND: Rheumatic heart disease is a global health concern with a persistently high incidence in developing countries, including Africa. It has a significant economic, morbidity, and mortality burden, particularly for children and young adults during their most productive years. However, in the last ten years, the extent of its impact in Africa has remained unclear. Limited studies conducted on the continent have reported diverse prevalence rates of rheumatic heart disease. As a result of these, the study aimed to aggregate and synthesize findings from population-based studies to offer a comprehensive and updated overview of rheumatic heart disease prevalence and pattern at the African level. METHODS: The studies were identified through a comprehensive literature search of the electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web searches, and manual searches. The descriptive information for the study is presented in the table, and the quantitative results are presented in forest plots. The Cochrane Q test and I2 test statistic were used to test heterogeneity across studies. The pooled estimate of the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease was computed by a random effects model. RESULTS: Out of 22 population-based studies analyzed using random-effects, the pooled magnitude of rheumatic heart disease was found to be 18.41/1000 (95% CI: 14.08-22.73/1000). This comprised definite cases of rheumatic heart disease at a prevalence rate of 8.91/1000 (95% CI: 6.50-11.33/1000) and borderline cases at a prevalence rate of 10.69/1000 (95% CI: 7.74-13.65/1000). The combined prevalence of rheumatic heart disease in males was almost equivalent to that in females. Mitral valve regurgitation was the predominant valve affected by rheumatic heart disease, accounting for approximately 73%. CONCLUSION: This study analysis found the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease in Africa is high. Because of this, policies and interventions should give attention to prioritize continuous population based active surveillance for early detection of cases to the reduction of rheumatic heart disease sequel, especially in the children and adolescent population.

Individual and community level factors associated with sexually transmitted infections among men in Tanzania: insights from the Tanzania demographic and health survey of 2022.

BACKGROUND: Sexually transmitted infections continue to be a significant public health issue on a global scale. Due to their effects on reproductive and child health as well as their role in facilitating the spread of HIV infection, sexually transmitted infections impose a heavy burden of morbidity and mortality in many developing countries. In addition, stigma, infertility, cancer, and an increased risk of HIV are the primary impacts of STIs on sexual and reproductive health. While numerous studies have been conducted in Tanzania to address this specific topic in various settings, the majority of them weren't representative. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to use data from the most recent Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey in order to evaluate the individual and community-level factors associated with sexually transmitted infections among Tanzanian men at the national level. METHODS: The most recent datasets from the Tanzania demographic and health survey were used for secondary data analysis. A total of 5763 men participated in this study. The recent Tanzania demographic and health survey provides data for multilevel mixed effect analysis on the variables that contribute to sexually transmitted infections among men in Tanzania. Finally, the percentage and odd ratio were provided, together with their 95% confidence intervals. RESULT: This study includes a total weighted sample of 5763 men from the Tanzania demographic and health survey. Of the total study participants, 7.5% of men had sexually transmitted infections in the last twelve months. Being married [AOR: 0.531, 95% CI (0.9014, 3.429)] was a factor that reduced the risk of sexually transmitted infections among men. On the other hand, being between the age range of 20 and 24 years [AOR: 6.310, 95% CI (3.514, 11.329)] and having more than one union [AOR: 1.861, 95% CI (1.406, 2.463)] were the factors that increased the risk of sexually transmitted infections among men. CONCLUSIONS: Men's sexually transmitted infections have been associated with individual-level factors. So, the Tanzanian governments and the concerned stakeholders should provide special attention for men whose age range is 20-24 years old. Promoting marriages and limiting the number of sexual partners should be the main strategies to lower the risk of sexually transmitted infections among men in Tanzania.

Factors associated with depression among war-affected population in Northeast, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Depression is the most common mental health outcome of exposure to war-related traumatic stressors. Due to inter-communal conflict, Dessie City residents have experienced prolonged armed conflict in 2021. This conflict leads to widespread violence, negative impact on mental health, and large-scale forced migration. However, the problem is not properly addressed in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of depression in the war-affected area in Dessie City, Ethiopia. METHOD: A cross-sectional study design was conducted among 785 participants in 2022. The study subjects were selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling technique. The outcome measures used in the study were validated with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Data was entered using Epi-data version 3.1 and SPSS version 25 was used to analyze data. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were done to identify factors related to depression. In multivariable logistic regression variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were considered significant and, adjusted OR (AOR) with 95% CI was used to present the strength of the association. RESULT: The prevalence of depression among participants was found to be 24.5% (95% CI,21.7, 27.5). In multivariable analysis, post-traumatic stress disorder (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI 1.76-4.43), middle-perceived life threats (AOR = 8.25, 95% CI 2.47-17.49), low social support (AOR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.23-2.96) were variables significantly associated with depression. CONCLUSION: This study found a high prevalence of depression among Dessie City residents. post-traumatic stress disorder, middle-perceived life threats, and low social support were associated with depression. Interventional strategies should be implemented to promote healing, resilience, and the overall well-being of individuals and communities. However, the findings underscore the need to address the current lack of mental health care resources in post-conflict populations.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms and associated factors among university students in Amhara region, Ethiopia, 2021: a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptom is a relapsing chronic medical condition resulting from the reflux of gastric acid contents into the esophagus and throat or mouth. It interferes with social functioning, sleep, productivity, and quality of life. Despite this, the magnitude of GERD symptoms is not known in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence and associated factors of GERD symptoms among university students in the Amhara national regional state. METHODS: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was employed in Amhara national regional state Universities, from April 1, 2021, to May 1, 2021. Eight hundred and forty-six students were included in the study. A stratified multistage sampling technique was employed. Data were collected by using a pretested self-administered questionnaire. Data were entered via Epi Data version 4.6.0.5 and analyzed by SPSS version-26 software. The bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were used to determine the associated factors of GERD symptoms. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Variables having a p-value of ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of GERD symptoms in this study was 32.1% (95% CI = 28.7-35.5%). Being in the age of 20-25 years (AOR = 1.74, 95%CI = 1.03-2.94), female (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.15-2.41), use of antipain (AOR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.65-3.69) and soft drinks (AOR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.13-2.20) were significantly associated with higher odds of GERD symptoms. Urban dwellers had less chance of having GERD symptoms (AOR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.48-0.94). CONCLUSION: Nearly one-third of university students are affected by GERD symptoms. Age, sex, residence, use of antipain, and consumption of soft drinks were significantly associated with GERD. Reducing modifiable risk factors such as antipain use and soft drink consumption among students is advisable to decrease the disease burden.

Shift-work sleep disorder among health care workers at public hospitals, the case of Sidama national regional state, Ethiopia: A multicenter cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Shift-work disrupts circadian rhythm, resulting in disturbed sleep time and excessive sleepiness during the work shift. Little is known about shift-work sleep disorder among health care workers in Ethiopia. This study examined the magnitude and associated factors of shift-work sleep disorder among health care workers in Public Hospitals in Sidama National Regional State, Southern Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was carried out on 398 health care workers selected using a systematic random sampling technique. A self-administered structured questionnaire consisting of insomnia, sleepiness scales and international classification of sleep disorder criteria items was employed. Epi data version 4.6 and Stata 14 were used for data entry and statistical analysis respectively. Binary logistic regression was fitted to determine associated factors and decision for the statistical significance was made at p<0.05 in the multivariable binary logistic regression. RESULTS: Three hundred and ninety-eight health care workers (female = 53%) were included in the analysis with a response rate of 94.8%. The prevalence of shift-work sleep disorder was 33.67% (95% CI: 29.17%-38.45%). Being married (AOR = 1.88 (1.01-3.28)), three-shift (AOR = 1.078 (1.00-3.16)), ≥11 night shifts per month (AOR = 2.44 (1.36-4.38)), missing nap (AOR = 1.85 (1.04-3.30)), daily sleep time < 7hours (AOR = 1.88 (1.05-3.38)), khat chewing (AOR = 2.98 (1.27-8.09)), alcohol drinking (AOR = 2.6(1.45-4.92)), and cigarette smoking (AOR = 3.32 (1.35-8.14)) were significantly associated with shift-work sleep disorder. CONCLUSION: This study showed a high prevalence of shift-work sleep disorder. Two shift schedule, napping, and reduction of substance use might reduce shift-work sleep disorder.

Diarrheal Diseases in Under-Five Children and Associated Factors among Farta District Rural Community, Amhara Regional State, North Central Ethiopia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Diarrheal diseases are the major cause of morbidity and mortality among under-five children in low- and middle-income countries including Ethiopia. One of the national initiatives to reduce its burden is an implementation of an open-defecation-free program. However, information related to the comparison of diarrheal diseases among residents in open-defecation-free and non-open-defecation-free. Hence, this study assessed the magnitude of diarrheal diseases among residents in open-defecation-free and non-open-defecation-free areas of Farta District, North Central Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 758 households (378 in open-defecation-free and 380 in non-open-defecation-free kebeles) who have under-five children using a structured questionnaire. A systematic sampling technique was used to select study participants. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze factors associated with diarrheal diseases in the district. Results: Overall, 29.9% of children had diarrheal diseases in the last two weeks prior to the study. The magnitude of diarrheal diseases among under-five children living in open-defecation-free and non-open-defecation-free residents was 19.3% and 40.5%, respectively. Lack of functional handwashing facilities (AOR: 11, 95% CI (8.1-29.6)), improper excreta disposal (AOR: 3.84, 95% CI (2.15-5.65)), and residing in non-open-defecation-free areas (AOR: 2.4, 95% CI (1.72-3.23)) were factors associated with diarrheal diseases. Conclusions: The prevalence of diarrhea among children residing in open-defecation-free areas was lower than that among children those who resided in non-open-defecation-free areas. Lack of functional handwashing facilities, residing in non-open-defecation-free areas, and improper excreta disposal were significantly associated with diarrheal diseases in the district. Strengthening health promotion on non-open defecation, maintaining functional handwashing facilities, and preparing additional handwashing facilities are necessary. Continuous engagement of the community health extension workers is recommended, sustaining the implementation of open-defecation-free programs in the district.