Cervical cancer screening practice and associated factors among female health care professionals in Ethiopia 2024: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer, ranking as the fourth most common gynecological cancer worldwide, claimed an estimated 570,000 lives and resulted in 311,000 new cases in 2018. This disease disproportionately affects those living in poverty and is more prevalent in countries with weak healthcare systems. Low and middle-income nations, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, face higher incidence and mortality rates due to limited access to vaccines, screening, and treatment. The world health organization recommends regular screening for women from age 25, setting a 90-70-90 target for low- and middle-income countries by 2030. Despite limited previous knowledge, the study aims to assess the pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening practices and associated factors among female healthcare professionals in Ethiopia in 2024. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to synthesize the existing literature on cervical cancer screening practice and associated factors among female health workers in Ethiopia. METHODS: Studies were searched through the search engine of Google Scholar, PubMed, and Cochrane Library. Searching was made using Keywords/ MeSH terms Cervical cancer; utilization; Preventive practice. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics. A random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval was used for the pooled prevalence and odds ratio estimations. RESULT: Seven studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening practice among female health workers in Ethiopia was 18%. Work place(OR = 2.858;95% CI: 0.412, 5.305),knowledge(OR = 3.457; 95% CI: 2.314, 4.601), work experience(OR = 5.421; 95% CI:4.178,6.664),being diagnosed(OR = 10.787; 95% CI: 06.197,15.377) and ever cared of cervical cancer patient (OR = 2.93; 95% CI: 2.004, 3.856) were the pooled associated factors that are significantly associated with cervical cancer screening practice among female health care worker. CONCLUSION: The implementation of preventive measures for cervical cancer screening was found to be suboptimal. Our findings underscore the importance of enhancing awareness among this demographic, which is crucial in mobilizing local communities. It is imperative to provide continuous education to female health workers regarding cervical cancer. The Ministry of Health should collaborate with various organizations to ensure the accessibility of cost-effective screening services in all healthcare facilities.

Prevalence and associated factors of anemia among postpartum mothers in public health facilities in Ethiopia, 2024: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Postpartum anemia, characterized by hematocrit or hemoglobin levels below the defined cutoff point (< 11gm/dl or hematocrit < 33%), is a prevalent global issue. It serves as an indirect contributor to maternal mortality and morbidity. Mothers in the postpartum period experience diminished quality of life, impaired cognitive function, emotional instability, and an increased risk of postpartum depression due to anemia. Additionally, infants of affected mothers may face challenges such as insufficient breast milk supply and a lack of proper care. Examining the combined prevalence and factors associated with postpartum anemia is crucial for addressing maternal health risks and complications during the postnatal phase attributed to anemia. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to synthesize the existing literature on the prevalence and associated factors of postpartum anemia in public health facilities of Ethiopia, in 2024. METHODS: The study was conducted by searching through the Google Scholar, PubMed, and Cochrane Library search engines. The search utilized keywords and MeSH terms such as anemia, low hemoglobin, postpartum, postnatal women, and Ethiopia. The collected data underwent analysis and comparison with the WHO criteria to determine if it met the threshold for declaring a public health concern. Heterogeneity was evaluated through the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics. Prevalence and odds ratio estimations were performed using a random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval. RESULT: Four studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of anemia among postpartum women in Ethiopia was 69% (95% CI: 60- 77%).Lack of formal education(OR = 3.5;CI:2.639,4.408),Low Pre-delivery hemoglobin (OR = 4.2;CI: 1.768-6.668), Postpartum women < 4 ANC visit (OR = 2.72; 95% CI:2.14,3.3 ),history of post partum hemorrhage (OR = 2.49; CI: 1.075-3.978),history of Forceps/vacuum delivery(OR = 3.96; CI:2.986-4.947), Poor iron and folic acid adherence (OR = 2.8;95% CI:2.311,3.297), C/S (OR = 4.04; 95% CI: 3.426,4.671),lower dietary diversity (OR = 4.295% CI:1.768,6.668) were significantly associated postpartum anemia. CONCLUSION: Postpartum women in Ethiopia continue to face a considerable public health challenge in the form of anemia. Consequently, there is a pressing need for the government to formulate comprehensive, multi-sectorial policies and strategies. These initiatives should be designed to address the substantial regional disparities influenced by interconnected factors, with the aim of reducing the prevalence of anemia among postpartum women in Ethiopia.

Cervical cancer screening utilization and associated factors among women living with HIV in Ethiopia, 2024: systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is a significant global health challenge, with the majority of cases and deaths occurring in low-resource regions like sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. Women living with HIV (WLHIV) in this area face a six-fold higher risk of cervical cancer compared to women living without HIV Both the availability of screening services and their utilization remain low, particularly among WLHIV, hindering efforts to reduce the cervical cancer burden in this vulnerable population. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to synthesize the current research on the prevalence of cervical cancer screening utilization and the associated factors among women living with HIV in Ethiopia. METHOD: We conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis, searching databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies published from 2015 up to 2023 and the search period for these relevant articles was from April 1 up to April 30, 2024. Data from included studies was extracted, organized in Excel, and then analyzed using STATA 17. The overall effect across all studies was calculated using a random-effect model. Potential publication bias and heterogeneity in the results between studies were assessed using Egger's test, forest plot, and I² statistic, respectively. RESULT: According to the systematic review and meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of cervical cancer screening utilization among women living with HIV in Ethiopia was 24% (17 - 32%). Several factors were independently associated with cervical cancer screening utilization, including age (40-49) years (OR = 3.95, 95% CI: 3.307-4.595), age (18-29) years (OR = 5.021, 95% CI: 1.563-9.479), education level greater than college (OR = 3.293, 95% CI: 1.835-4.751), having good knowledge (OR = 3.421, 95% CI: 2.928-3.915), early initiation of sexual intercourse (OR = 3.421, 95% CI: 2.928-3.915), awareness of cervical cancer (OR = 3.551, 95% CI: 2.945-4.157), having information about cancer (OR = 3.671, 95% CI: 2.606-4.736), CD4 count less than 500 cell/mm3 (OR = 4.001, 95% CI: 1.463-6.539), government employee (OR = 5.921, 95% CI: 1.767-10.076), and perceived susceptibility (OR = 2.950, 95% CI: 2.405-3.496). CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis show that the pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening rates among Women living with HIV in Ethiopia is notably low, at only 24%. Factors influencing service utilization include age, education level, knowledge about cervical cancer, early sexual initiation, awareness of the disease itself, and HIV-related conditions. To enhance screening rates, interventions must target these factors and address systemic healthcare deficiencies.

Barriers of persistent long-lasting insecticidal nets utilization in Northwest Ethiopia: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Malaria continues a significant public health challenge in Ethiopia, with Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) proving effective in reducing transmission. Despite their effectiveness, consistent LLIN utilization is influenced by various factors. While previous research has quantitatively analyzed LLIN ownership and usage, there is a lack of in-depth examination of the behavioral, sociocultural, socioeconomic, and distribution-related factors affecting their sustained use. This study aimed to explore barriers to persistent LLIN use among communities in northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: The study area found in Northwest Ethiopia, specifically in East Belessa District, is located at 12° 14' 60.00" N latitude and 37° 44' 59.99" E longitude, with an altitude between 1,200 and 1,800 m above sea level. Thirty-nine community members from five focus group discussions, along with five key informants, were interviewed between February 1st and 30th, 2020, about their use of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs). An interpretive description approach was employed to explore local contexts and factors affecting LLIN utilization. Focus group participants were selected based on residency status, pregnancy, caretaking of under-five children, and experience with LLINs. Key informants included health extension workers and the woreda malaria officer. Data were organized and analyzed using Open Code Version 4.03 software, with coding and theme identification conducted accordingly. RESULTS: All 44 community members from the five focus group discussions and the five key informants participated fully in the study. The study categorized its findings into three main themes: knowledge of malaria and Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN) use, perception of malaria threat, and barriers to sustained LLIN utilization. It identified factors spanning individual, socio-cultural, institutional, and socio-economic realms that impede consistent LLIN usage. Key hindrances include cultural misinterpretations, discomfort from heat and bed bugs, diverse net shapes, insufficient sleeping spaces, lack of awareness, inadequate distribution, neglect of vulnerable groups, misuse of non-sleeping purposes, hesitancy to hang nets, and restricted accessibility. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals that practical concerns, including inadequate access to LLINs, distribution issues, discomfort from net shape and warmth, and unintended uses for non-malaria purposes, impact LLIN utilization. Socio-cultural norms, housing conditions, and varied understanding of malaria also contribute to inconsistent LLIN use. Strategies like providing compatible nets and comprehensive education could improve the Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets program's effectiveness in the area.

Socioeconomic and behavioral factors of road traffic accidents among drivers in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta analysis.

BACKGROUND: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a pressing public health issue in Ethiopia, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and motorization. Despite efforts, escalating rates persist due to various factors like human behavior and road infrastructure deficiencies. This study addresses the need for comprehensive data on RTAs in Ethiopia, aiming to uncover socioeconomic and behavioral factors to inform evidence-based policies. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted from March to April 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Major databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were searched using specific keywords related to RTAs and Ethiopia. Studies conducted between 2014 and 2024 were included, with eligibility criteria. Data extraction followed a standardized Microsoft Excel format. Study quality was assessed using the JBI checklist, with high-quality articles included. Statistical analysis, conducted using STATA version 17, included descriptive analysis, forest plots for RTA prevalence, and examination of publication bias using Egger and Begs tests. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression explored moderating factors and sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS: The systematic review identified eight studies meeting inclusion criteria, conducted between 2014 and 2022. RTA prevalence was 36% (95% CI: 23; 49). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the estimated prevalence. Publication bias was detected via Egger's test, though Begg's test was non-significant. Meta-regression found no significant influence of publication year or sample size on RTA prevalence. Socioeconomic factors like income level and driving experience, alongside behavioral factors like traffic rule violations and substance use, were identified as key drivers of RTAs in Ethiopia. CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights the significant burden of road traffic accidents in Ethiopia, influenced by socioeconomic and behavioral factors. Socioeconomic factors such as income level and driving experience, along with behavioral factors like traffic rule violations and substance use, emerged as prominent determinants of RTAs. Policymakers should prioritize evidence-based interventions targeting these factors to improve road safety nationwide.

Prevalence of dental caries and associated factors among primary school children in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Dental caries (decay or cavities) is the breakdown of teeth as a result of bacteria. Dental caries is one of the most preventable oral health problems and the most common chronic disease in primary school children. Poor dental and oral health affects the quality of children's lives. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to synthesize the existing literature on the prevalence and associated factors of dental caries among primary school children in Ethiopia in 2024. METHODOLOGY: Studies were searched through the search engines of Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library. Searching was made using keywords and MeSH terms for dental caries, dental plaque, primary school children, and Ethiopia. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics. A random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval was used for prevalence and odds ratio estimations. RESULT: The result of seven studies disclosed that the overall prevalence of dental caries in primary school children in Ethiopia was 35% (26-45%). high intake of sweets (OR = 2.71,95%CI:1.968-3.451), a poor habit of tooth cleaning (OR = 2.46; 95% CI: 2.761-5.045), Grade level 1-4(OR = 2.46; 95% CI: 1.523-3.397), having a history of toothache(OR = 2.99; 95% CI: 2.679-3.314), absence of toothpaste use(OR = 1.42; 95% CI: -1.278-4.109), reduction of the previous year's academic score(OR = 5.51; 95% CI: 1.952-9.066), had a significant microbial load(OR = 3.82, CI: 3.439-4.192) and have acid bacillary pH on their teeth(OR = 2.42, CI: 1.494-3.335) were independent variables associated with dental carries among primary school children. CONCLUSION: The overall prevalence of dental caries among primary school children in Ethiopia is 35%, ranging from 26 to 45%. However, variations in prevalence rates are observed based on sampling techniques. Studies using simple random sampling report a higher prevalence rate of 42%, while those employing multi-stage random sampling and systematic random sampling show lower rates of 30% and 35%, respectively. This indicates that the choice of sampling technique can impact reported prevalence rates, with simple random sampling yielding higher estimates compared to other methods.

Civil servants' physical activity status and its associated factors in Northeast Ethiopia: applying Health Belief Model.

Background: Identifying the associated factors of the physical activity of civil servants is necessary to increase the practice of physical activity. However, limited studies addressed associated factors of civil servants' physical activity status in Ethiopia. Hence, this study assessed civil servants' physical activity status and associated factors in Northeast Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from 28 February to 13 March 2020 and measured physical activity using WHO physical activity definition. Four hundred and eight civil servants were interviewed using a systematic random sampling technique. A descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression model were used. Result: The percentage of physical activity for the civil servants of the study was only 2.38, with the prevalence of physical activity status of 64.0% (95% CI 60.4% to 67.61%). Perceived self-efficacy (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.98, 95% CI 1.15 to 4.12), cues to action (AOR=2.12, 95% CI 1.04 to 3.22) and being a health professional (AOR=2.19, 95% CI 1.13, 4.23) were main associated factors of physical activity. However, physical activity was not affected by respondents' sex (AOR=1.01, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.83), educational status (AOR=0.23, 95% CI 0.03 to 1.91), perceived barrier (AOR=0.97, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.04) or perceived benefit (AOR=1.02, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.09). Conclusion: The health profession, self-efficacy and cues to action were the main associated factors of physical activity. Hence, the Sports Bureau and Health Bureau should pay attention to providing information by focusing on improving self-confidence and creating a positive attitude toward physical activity.

Self-reported and actual involvement of community pharmacists in patient counseling: a cross-sectional and simulated patient study in Gondar, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Community pharmacists play a crucial role in reducing medication related health problems and improving the patient's overall wellbeing. Evidence suggests that community pharmacist led counseling services result in a better clinical and self-reported outcome, including a higher level of satisfaction and quality of life. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to document self-reported and actual levels of community pharmacists' involvement in the provision of patient counseling and barriers that limit their involvement in such services. METHODS: Simulated patient visits and a cross-sectional survey of community pharmacists were employed in Gondar town, Ethiopia between March 15 and May 15, 2016 to observe actual counseling practices and to assess their reported counseling practices respectively. Four different scenarios were developed for the simulated patient visit. A well designed questionnaire and an assessment form were used for the survey and simulated patient visit. RESULTS: In the cross-sectional survey, 84 pharmacists were approached and 78 agreed to participate (92.8 % response rate). Of the respondents, 96.1% agreed/strongly agreed that patient counseling is important and 69.3% strongly agreed that patient counseling should be a professional duty. The most frequent information provided to patients were dosing schedule of drugs, how to take medication, and drug-food interaction. Majority of community pharmacists either strongly agreed (42.1%) or agreed (51.3%) that patients are comfortable towards their counseling practice. A total of 48 simulated visits were conducted and a medicine was dispensed in all visits. In all four scenarios, dosage schedule (100%), how to take medication (97.6%) and drug-food interaction (69.1%) were the most common type of information provided while what to do when dose is missed (100%), contraindication (95.2%) and the importance of compliance or adherence (92.9%) were the most commonly ignored types of information. CONCLUSIONS: The present study emphasizes the existing gap in self-reported and actual counseling practices by community pharmacist in Gondar town, Ethiopia. Hence, the ministry of health, local health policy makers and other stakeholders should collaborate to design interventions to improve community pharmacists' dispensing and counseling practice.