Mortality of traumatic chest injury and its predictors across sub-saharan Africa: systematic review and meta-analysis, 2024.

INTRODUCTION: Globally, chest trauma remain as a prominent contributor to both morbidity and mortality. Notably, patients experiencing blunt chest trauma exhibit a higher mortality rate (11.65%) compared to those with penetrating chest trauma (5.63%). AIM: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the mortality rate and its determinants in cases of traumatic chest injuries. METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist guided the data synthesis process. Multiple advanced search methods, encompassing databases such as PubMed, Africa Index Medicus, Scopus, Embase, Science Direct, HINARI, and Google Scholar, were employed. The elimination of duplicate studies occurred using EndNote version X9. Quality assessment utilized the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and data extraction adhered to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) format. Evaluation of publication bias was conducted via Egger's regression test and funnel plot, with additional sensitivity analysis. All studies included in this meta-analysis were observational, ultimately addressing the query, what is the pooled mortality rate of traumatic chest injury and its predictors in sub-Saharan Africa? RESULTS: Among the 845 identified original articles, 21 published original studies were included in the pooled mortality analysis for patients with chest trauma. The determined mortality rate was nine (95% CI: 6.35-11.65). Predictors contributing to mortality included age over 50 (AOR 3.5; 95% CI: 1.19-10.35), a time interval of 2-6 h between injury and admission (AOR 3.9; 95% CI: 2.04-7.51), injuries associated with the head and neck (AOR 6.28; 95% CI: 3.00-13.15), spinal injuries (AOR 7.86; 95% CI: 3.02-19.51), comorbidities (AOR 5.24; 95% CI: 2.93-9.40), any associated injuries (AOR 7.9; 95% CI: 3.12-18.45), cardiac injuries (AOR 5.02; 95% CI: 2.62-9.68), the need for ICU care (AOR 13.7; 95% CI: 9.59-19.66), and an Injury Severity Score (AOR 3.5; 95% CI: 10.6-11.60). CONCLUSION: The aggregated mortality rate for traumatic chest injuries tends to be higher in sub-Saharan Africa. Factors such as age over 50 years, delayed admission (2-6 h), injuries associated with the head, neck, or spine, comorbidities, associated injuries, cardiac injuries, ICU admission, and increased Injury Severity Score were identified as positive predictors. Targeted intervention areas encompass the health sector, infrastructure, municipality, transportation zones, and the broader community.

Service availability and readiness to provide comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care services in post-conflict at North Wollo Zone hospitals, Northeast Ethiopia: mixed survey.

INTRODUCTION: Countries with humanitarian crises and fragile conditions contribute to 61% of the global burden of maternal mortality. Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) services reduce direct obstetric complications, which cause approximately 70-80% of maternal deaths and 10% to 15% of neonatal deaths. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the service availability and readiness to provide comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care services in post-conflict at North Wollo Zone hospitals, Northeast Ethiopia. METHODS: A facility-based mixed cross-sectional study design was conducted from May 10 to May 25, 2022, among North Wollo zone hospitals. Quantitative data were collected by using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires with observation and record review, entered by using Epi Data Version 4.6, and exported to SPSS 25 for analysis. Qualitative data were collected by key informant interviews and analyzed through thematic analysis. A descriptive data analysis was done to analyze the study variables. RESULTS: Only three of the six hospitals (Woldia, Shediho Meket, and Saint Lalibella) performed all signal functions of comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care in the preceding three months. Cesarean section was the least performed signal function in post-conflict. The overall readiness to provide comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care services was 77.7%. Only one of the six hospitals had sufficient blood without interruption, and three of the six facilities had done screening for hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis. Lack of supplies, equipment, and drugs were the challenges for the performance of EmONC signal functions. CONCLUSIONS: Post-conflict availability and readiness for comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care services in the North Wollo Zone was suboptimal. Shortage of medical supplies, equipment and emergency transportation was the challenges to provide these services. Thus, the hospital decision makers should strengthen leadership commitment, which focuses on recovering and rebuilding the destructed hospitals with resource mobilization and support.

Application of the integrated behavioral model to identify the predictors of toothbrushing practices among primary school children at Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia.

Knowing the level of behavioral intention and tooth-brushing practices is crucial for the implementation of the intervention. However, such studies are too limited in Ethiopia. The current study employed a health behavior model to identify predictors that can serve to support primary school children's attitudes, intentions, knowledge, environmental constraints, and practices of tooth brushing. Thus, this study aimed to assess tooth brushing practices and their predictors among primary school children in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia. An Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among primary school children in Bahir Dar city. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 610 participants. Data were collected using pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaires. Questionnaires adapted from items' previous literature were used for integrated behavioral model constructs incorporated with elicitation study results. Data were entered into Epi data and then analyzed by Stata. Descriptive statistics were done. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to check the convergent validity of the measurement. The Internal reliability of the items was also checked using composite reliability. Multivariable logistic regression was used to predict the role of independent variables in toothbrushing practices. Moreover, path analysis was performed to check the causal effect of integrated behavioral model constructs on toothbrushing practices. The goodness of fit of the final model was checked using the Hosmer and Lemeshow test of best fit with a large p value = 0.97 and Area under receiver operating characteristics curve = 0.98. The overall prevalence of the current practice of toothbrushing among the respondents was 45.4%. The prevalence of brushing frequency was 243 (89.01%), 27 (9.89%), and 3 (1.09%) brushed once a day, twice a day, and more than twice a day respectively. Female child's [AOR 3.23, 95% CI 1.48-7.02], mothers' education [AOR 4.6; 95% CI 1.22-17.44], past experience of toothbrushing [AOR 0.042; CI 0.018-0.101], knowledge about tooth brushing practices [AOR 1.3; 95% CI 1.09-1.60], behavioral intention [AOR 2.01; 95% CI 1.74-2.32], experiential attitude [AOR 1.09; 95% CI 1.01-1.17],instrumental attitude [AOR 1.02; 95% CI 1.01-1.03], and descriptive norm [AOR 1.07; 95% CI 1.01-1.14] were predictors of toothbrushing practices. The findings indicate that the practice of toothbrushing practices among primary school students was low. Sex, mother's education, knowledge, intention, experience, experiential attitude, instrumental attitude, and descriptive norm, have significant effects on toothbrushing practices; indicating that the integrated behavioral model showed adequate utility in predicting toothbrushing practices in the study area. School-based toothbrushing practices change interventions such as communication strategy.

Lived Experience of Adult With Heart Failure at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Teaching Hospital Northwest Ethiopia, Qualitative Phenomenological Study.

Background: Heart failure is major public health problem that affects many people worldwide. It affects all aspects of patients' lives, leading to extreme physical, social, and functional restriction and increasing psychological distress. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experience of adult patient with heart failure at Tibebe Ghion Specialize Hospital, Ethiopia, 2022. Method: Qualitative Phenomenological study design was conducted at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Referral Hospital, from November 10 to December 15, 2022. Heterogenous purposive sampling technique was used to select 11 study participants. Data were collected through in-depth interviews guides and observational checklist. The rigor and trustworthiness of the study were maintained by transferability, dependability, credibility, and conformability. Thematic analysis method was used for the development of codes and themes using ATLAS. ti.7 software for analysis. Result: Five main themes and eleven subthemes were developed that explore the lived experience of adults with heart failure. Impact of heart failure on daily life, psychological and spiritual experiences, financial experiences, experiences related to hospital service, and challenges to getting treatment are major themes. Unavailability of medicine, lab investigations, and the inaccessibility of cardiac centers were the main challenges during their treatment. Conclusion: This study explored that lived experience of adult HF patients were addressed in in terms of Physical, Psychological and Spiritual, financial, hospital service and challenges to get treatment. Therefore, we recommended providing psychological and economical support for HF patients and in addition to accessing medication and medical care centers.

Suicidal ideation, attempt, and its associated factors among adult HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis study.

BACKGROUND: WHO statistics show that someone attempts suicide every three seconds and commits suicide every 40 seconds somewhere in the world. There is a scarcity of aggregate evidence in Ethiopia. The aim of this review was to assess the pooled prevalence of suicidal ideation, attempts, and associated factors among adult HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia to fill this gap. METHODS: We extensively searched the bibliographic databases of PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Web of Science to obtain eligible studies. Further screening for a reference list of articles was also done. The Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet was used to extract data, and Stata 17 was used for analysis. To check heterogeneity, the Higgs I2 and Cochran's Q tests were employed. Sensitivity and subgroup analysis were implemented. To detect publication bias, Egger's test and funnel plots were used. RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempts among adult HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia was 20.3 with a 95% CI (14, 26.5) and 11.1 with a 95% CI (6.6, 15.5), respectively. Living alone (AOR 4.98; 95% CI: 2.96-8.37), having comorbidity or other opportunistic infection (AOR 4.67; 95% CI: 2.57-8.48), female sex (AOR 2.86; 95% CI: 1.76, 4.62), having WHO clinical stage III of HIV (AOR 3.69; 95% CI: 2.15, 6.32), having WHO clinical stage IV of HIV (AOR 5.43; 95% CI: 2.81, 10.53), having co-morbid depression (AOR 5.25; 95% CI: 4.05, 6.80), having perceived HIV stigma (AOR 2.53; 95% CI: 1.67, 3.84), and having family history of suicidal attempt (AOR 2.79; 95% CI: 1.38, 5.66) were significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Being female (AOR 4.33; 95% CI: 2.36, 7.96), having opportunistic infections (AOR 2.73; 95% CI: 1.69, 4.41), having WHO clinical stage III of HIV (AOR 3.78; 95% CI: 2.04, 7.03), having co-morbid depression (AOR 3.47; 95% CI: 2.38, 5.05), having poor social support (AOR 3.02; 95% CI: 1.78, 5.13), and having WHO clinical stage IV (AOR 7.39; 95% CI: 3.54, 15.41) were significantly associated with suicidal attempts. CONCLUSION: The pooled magnitude of suicidal ideation and attempt was high, and factors like opportunistic infection, WHO clinical stage III of HIV, WHO clinical stage III of HIV, and co-morbid depression were related to both suicidal ideation and attempt. Clinicians should be geared towards this mental health problem in HIV patients during management.

Hypertensive crisis and its predictors in Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis, 2024.

Introduction: Hypertensive crises are a leading cause of visits to emergency departments, carrying grave health implications. A significant number of patients presenting with these crises have a known history of hypertension. Objective: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to examine the combined prevalence of hypertensive crises among individuals with either a history of hypertension or unknown status (newly diagnosed with a hypertensive crisis). Methods: This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered with the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). Research databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Africa Index Medicus, Science Direct, HINARI, and Google Scholar, were systematically searched. Study quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, while publication bias was explored through Egger's regression test, funnel plots, and sensitivity analyses. Data collection adhered to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) format. Meta-analysis was performed using STATA version 17, employing the random-effects DerSimonian-Laird model. Results: Amongst the 15 studies analyzed, the application of the random-effects DerSimonian-Laird statistical model indicated that the prevalence of hypertensive crisis was determined to be 9.09 %, with a 95 % confidence interval (CI) ranging from 7.41 % to 10.77 %. Factors such as poor medication adherence (POR 5.00; 95 % CI: 3.61, 6.93), patients with comorbidities (POR 4.73; 95 % CI: 3.29, 6.80), patients with a history of hypertension (POR 5.64; 95 % CI: 4.57, 6.94), patients aged >65 (POR 2.77; 95 % CI: 2.16, 6.59), and excessive alcohol intake (POR 5.01; 95 % CI: 3.82, 6.58) were associated with higher odds of hypertensive crisis. Conclusion: The findings indicate a markedly higher incidence of hypertensive crisis among hospital-presenting patients in Africa. Factors such as medication non-adherence, co-existing comorbidities, historical hypertension, being over 65, and alcohol misuse significantly contribute to this condition. These insights call for a comprehensive healthcare strategy that targets both the management of hypertension and its complications, aiming to improve the overall health outcomes of affected patients.

Barriers to Medication Adherence Among Patients with Non-Communicable Disease in North Wollo Zone Public Hospitals: Socio-Ecologic Perspective, 2023.

Background: The practice of taking medication as directed by a healthcare provider is known as medication adherence. Therefore, the application of a socio-ecological model to this study identifies multilevel factors on barriers of medication adherence on chronic non-communicable disease and provides information to develop scientific health communication interventional strategies to improve medication adherence. Objective: This study aimed to explore barriers of medication adherence on non-communicable disease prevention and care among patients in North Wollo Zone public hospitals, northeast Ethiopia. Methods: A phenomenological study design was carried out between February 5 and February 30, 2023. The study participants were chosen using a heterogeneous purposive sampling technique. In-depth interviews and targeted focus groups were used to gather data. The focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were captured on audio, accurately transcribed, and translated into English. Atlas TI-7 was utilized to do the thematic analysis. Results: Four main themes, intrapersonal, interpersonal, community level, and health care related, as well as seven subthemes, financial problems, lack of family support, poor communication with healthcare providers, effects of social ceremonies, remote healthcare facility, and drug scarcity, were identified by this study. In this study participants reported that lack of knowledge about the disease and drugs were the main barrier for medication adherence. The study revealed that financial problems for medication and transportation cost were the main factor for medication adherence for non-communicable disease patients. Conclusion: This study explored that lack of knowledge, financial problem, lack of family support, poor communication with healthcare providers, social ceremony effects, remote healthcare facility, and scarcity of drugs were barriers of medication adherence among non-communicable disease patients. In order to reduce morbidity and mortality from non-communicable diseases, it is advised that all relevant bodies look for ways to reduce medication adherence barriers for patients at every level of influence.

Coronavirus disease 2019 information-seeking behavior globally: a systematic review.

Objective: This systematic review aimed to provide a global picture of information-seeking behavior, source information used, and its associated factors. Methods: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses steps. Databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, World Health Organization libraries, and Google Scholar were used to search all published articles. Articles on COVID-19 information-seeking behavior published until November 04, 2021, and the use of the English language was included. Two independent reviewers did the article selection and quality check. Results: For this systematic review, twenty articles were included in the final report. Information-seeking behavior was associated with digital health literacy, online information sources, and socio-demographic factors. The major sources of health information during the COVID-19 pandemic were digital media, television, public health portals like the world health organization, and center for communicable disease and prevention websites. Conclusion: This systematic review provides a valuable overview of available information on information-seeking behavior regarding COVID-19 globally. The studies used a heterogeneous study population, various research techniques, and various research questions. Digital literacy and online information sources play a vital role in information-seeking behavior.

Application of behavioral change theory and models on COVID-19 preventive behaviors, worldwide: A systematic review.

Objective: This systematic review aimed to assess the global application of behavioral change theory and models on COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Methods: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses procedure. Databases such as PubMed/MIDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, EMB ASE, World Health Organization libraries, and Google Scholar were used to search all published articles in the area of application of behavioral change theory and model on COVID-19 preventive behavior until October 1, 2022. Studies published in another language other than English were excluded. Two independent reviewers did the article selection and quality check. A third reviewer asked if any disagreement were found. Result: Seventeen thousand four hundred thirty-six total articles were retrieved from all sources after the removal of duplicated articles and those not evaluating the outcome of interest were excluded. Finally, 82 articles done using behavioral change theory and model on COVID-19 preventive behaviors were included. The health belief model (HBM) and theory of planned behavior (TPB) were most commonly used in COVID-19 preventive behaviors. The constructs of most behavioral theories and models were significantly associated with COVID-19 preventive behaviors such as hand washing, face mask use, vaccine uptake, social isolation, self-quarantine, social distance, and use of sanitizers. Conclusion: This systematic review summarizes comprehensive evidence on the application of behavioral change theory and model on COVID-19 preventive behaviors globally. A total of seven behavioral change theories and models were included. The HBM and TPBs were most commonly used for COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Therefore, the application of behavioral change theory and models is recommended for developing behavioral change interventional strategies.

Tuberculosis infection control practice among healthcare workers in Ethiopia: a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) is a main concern of health care workers in sub-Saharan Africa. Healthcare workers have the potential to have contact with TB patients and are the main stakeholders in healthcare settings to implement TB infection control, and the poor practice of TB infection control may increase the risk of transmission of TB in healthcare settings. However, there is no consistent conclusion on the TB infection control practice among healthcare workers in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to determine the pooled magnitude of TB infection control practice and associated factors among healthcare workers in Ethiopia. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis will be done by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline. The following databases will be used to search for articles: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and grey literatures. The quality of studies will be assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist. The data from included studies will be extracted using Microsoft Excel V.2016, and the extracted data will be analysed using STATA V.16. Forest plot and I2 statistics will be done for heterogeneity. A funnel plot and Egger's regression test will be conducted to check for publication bias. Potential sources of bias will be identified by subgroup analysis and meta-regression. Any type of study design conducted in Ethiopia and in English language will be included. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval is not required, and the findings will be published in peer-reviewed journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023393580.

Utilization of HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis and Associated Factors Among Female Sex Workers in Bahir Dar City, North-West Ethiopia, Cross-sectional Study, 2022.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the utilization of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and associated factors among commercial female sex workers in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia, in 2022. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Bahir Dar City from November 1 to 30, 2022. The random sampling technique was used to select 396 commercial female sex workers. Kobo Collector was used to gather the data, which was then exported to STATA 14 for analysis. In bivariate regression analysis, all variables with a P-value of <0.2 were entered into multivariable logistic regression. Multivariable logistic regression variables with P-values ≤0.05 at a 95% confidence interval were declared to be significantly linked with the utilization of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Results: In this study, 183 (46.2%) (95%CI: 41.33-51.16) of respondents utilized HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Educational status: secondary and above (AOR: 2.18, 95%CI: 1.05-4.53). Age of sex workers 26-36 (AOR: 0.20, 95%CI: 0.17-0.84); experience of sex work 3-5 years (AOR: 0.25, 95%CI: 0.24-0.83); and having good knowledge (AOR: 4.98, 95%CI: 3.90-10.65) were significantly associated with the utilization of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Conclusion: In this study, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis was not widely used by commercial female sex workers. Therefore, social and behavioral change communication strategies focus on creating awareness and building knowledge on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis utilization.

Factors Influencing Blood Donation Practice Among Health Care Providers of Public Hospitals in Bahir Dar City, North West Ethiopia: A Case Control Study.

Background: Blood donation is a technique in which blood is collected from a healthy individual for transfusion to someone else. WHO estimates that it is necessary to donate blood to 2% to 3% of the country's population to meet blood needs. However, blood donation remains challenging in developing countries. Objective: This study aimed to identify factors influencing blood donation practices among healthcare providers in public hospitals in Bahir Dar City. Methods: This institution-based unmatched case-control study was conducted in Bahir Dar City Public Hospitals from May 01 to May 25, 2022. Total sample size was 491 (123 cases and 368 controls) and then the study subject was selected by using simple random sampling technic and collect data through self-administered questionnaire. Bi-variable and multi-variable binary logistic regression analyses were used to determine the association between dependent and independent variables. Finally, the results are presented in charts and tables, and the AOR and CI are reported. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: Fear of anemia (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.02; 95% CI 0.007-0.078), lack of opportunity (AOR: 0.42; 95% CI 0.22-0.83), lack of time (AOR: 0.03; 95% CI, 0.005-0.199), profession (AOR: 0.15; 95% CI, 0.05-0.42), aware of free medical checkup (AOR: 31.79; 95% CI 13.13-76.94), willingness to donate blood (AOR: 5.09; 95% CI 2.25-11.50), blood group type (AOR: 5.67; 95% CI 1.42-22.68), and higher work experience (AOR: 7.99; 95% CI 2.59-24.67) were found to be significantly associated with blood donation practice. Conclusion: This study revealed that multiple factors influenced the practice of blood donation among healthcare providers. Therefore, access to blood donation areas and emphasizing the importance of donor blood donation are important for facilitating blood donation.

Incidence of stroke and its predictors among hypertensive patients in Felege Hiwot comprehensive specialized hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, a retrospective follow-up study.

BACKGROUND: Globally, one in three adults has hypertension, a condition that causes 51% of all deaths from stroke. Stroke is becoming a major public health problem and the most common cause of morbidity and mortality among non-communicable diseases in the world and Ethiopia. Therefore, this study assesses the incidence of stroke and its predictors among hypertensive patients in Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia 2021. METHODS: A hospital-based retrospective follow-up study design was used, simple random sampling technique was used to select 583 hypertensive patients that had follow-up registration between January 2018 and December 30th, 2020. Data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and exported to STATA version 14. The adjusted hazard ratio for each predictor with a 95% confidence interval was calculated using the Cox proportional hazards regression model, and a P-value ≤  0.05 was used to denote statistical significance. RESULTS: From 583 hypertensive patients 106(18.18%) [95% CI 15-20] were developed stroke. The overall incidence rate was 1 per 100 person-years (95% CI 0.79-1.19). Comorbidities (Adjusted hazard ratio(AHR): 1.88, 95% CI 1.0-3.5), stage two hypertension (AHR = 5.21, 95%CI 2.75-9.8), uncontrolled systolic blood pressure (AHR: 2, 95% CI 1.21-354), uncontrolled diastolic blood pressure (AHR:1.9, 95% CI 1.1-3.57), alcohol consumption (AHR = 2.04, 95%CI 1.2-3.49), age 45-65 (AHR = 10.25, 95%CI 7.47-11.1); and drug discontinuation (AHR = 2.05,95% CI 1.26-3.35) were independent predictors for the incidence of stroke among hypertensive patients. CONCLUSION: The incidence of stroke among hypertensive patients was high and various modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors highly contributed to its incidence. This study recommends early screening of blood pressure, giving priority to comorbid patients and patients with advanced stage hypertension, and giving health education about behavioral risks and drug adherence.

Lived experiences of disabled individuals living in Bahir Dar City, North West Ethiopia, a phenomenological study.

BACKGROUND: When an individual's activities and performances in a normal environment are limited in nature, function, or quality, that person is considered to have a disability. Although many studies on disabled people's lived experiences have been conducted around the world, there is still a significant gap between nations in multiple cases such as culture, economic status, and the recommendation of a previous study in Ethiopia, which is one reason for conducting this research. OBJECTIVES: To explore the lived experiences of disabled individuals living in Bahir Dar City. METHODS: A descriptive phenomenology study design was employed in Bahir Dar city on 15 disabled individuals from November 15 to December 20, 2022. A heterogeneous purposive sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data was collected by using an in-depth interview. The rigor and trustworthiness of the study were maintained by transferability, dependability, credibility, and conformability. Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis method was used for the development of codes and themes. Software (ATLAS. ti 7) version 7.5.6 was used for analysis. RESULT: Five major themes and fourteen sub-themes were developed that explain lived experiences of disabled individuals. Physical, psychological, social, economic and coping strategy experiences were major themes. Depression and negative emotional behavior were sub-themes under psychological experiences. Unemployment with the absence of a workplace and inadequate income were sub-themes under the economical experiences of participants. CONCLUSION: In this qualitative interview study, the lived experience of individuals living with disability in Bahir Dar city were addressed in terms of the physical, psychological, social, economic, and coping mechanism experience of disabled individuals. Special needs professionals and social support groups should have been assigned and present in all institutions to serve the PwDs to assure equal accessibility of services.

Behavioral Responses for Face Cleanliness Message to Prevent Trachoma Among Mothers Having Children Age 1-9 Years Old, in Fogera District, Northwest Ethiopia: An Application of Extended Parallel Process Model.

Background: Trachoma is an eye disease caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis. This infection causes papillary and/or follicular inflammation of the tarsal conjunctiva referred to as active trachoma. Active trachoma prevalence among 1 to 9 years old children is 27.2% in Fogera district (study area). Many people still require the implementation of the face cleanliness components of the SAFE strategy. Even if face cleanness is an important component to prevent trachoma, there is limited research done on this area. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess behavioral responses to face cleanliness messages to prevent trachoma among mothers having children aged 1 to 9 years old. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted with the guidance of an extended parallel process model in Fogera District from December 01 to December 30, 2022. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 611 study participants. Interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify predictors of behavioral responses using SPSS V.23 significant variables were declared by AOR at a 95% confidence interval and a p-value <0.05. Result: Among the total participants, 292 (47.8%) were in danger control. Residence [AOR = 2.91; 95% CI: (1.44-3.86)], marital status [AOR = 0.79; 95% CI: (0.667-0.939)], level of education [AOR = 2.74; 95% CI: (1.546-3.65)], family size [AOR = 0.57; 95% CI: (0.453-0.867)], round trip to collect water [AOR = 0.79; 95% CI: (0.423-0.878)], having information about face washing [AOR = 3.79; 95% CI: (2.661-5.952)], Source of an information health facility [AOR = 2.76; 95% CI: (1.645-4.965)], school [AOR = 3.68; 95% CI: (1.648-7.530)], health extension workers [AOR = 3.96; 95% CI: (2.928-6.752)], Women development army [AOR = 2.809; 95% CI: (1.681-4.962)], knowledge [AOR = 2.065; 95% CI: (1.325-4.427)] self-esteem [AOR = 1.013; 95% CI: (1.001-1.025)], self-control [AOR = 1.132; 95%CI: (1.04-1.24)], and future orientation [AOR = 2.16; 95% CI: (1.345-4.524)] were found to be statistically significant predictors of behavioral response. Conclusion: Less than half of the participants were in the danger control response. Residence, marital status, level of education, family size, face-washing information, source of information, knowledge, self-esteem, self-control, and future orientation were independent predictors of face cleanliness. Strategies of face cleanliness messages should give high attention to perceived efficacy with consideration of perceived threat.

Behavioral response for condom use messages to prevent human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome among Bahir Dar City High School students, North West Ethiopia, 2022: Application of the extended parallel process model.

Objective: The human immunodeficiency virus has become one of the world's most serious health and development challenges. Human immunodeficiency virus prevention has not received sufficient attention, and the prevalence of human behavioral virus infections among Ethiopian high school and preparatory students has also increased. The aim of this study was to assess behavioral responses to condom use messages to prevent human immune virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome among Bahir Dar city high school and preparatory students using the extended parallel process model, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, 2022. Methodology: This institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 15 November to 15 December 2022, in Bahir Dar city. The data were collected from 601 participants. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were entered into Epi-Info version 7.2.5 and exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Descriptive statistics, percentages, and frequencies were calculated. Bivariable logistic regression was performed to identify variables candidates for multivariable logistic regression at p-values less than 0.25, and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with the outcome variable at p-values < 0.05. A 95% confidence interval and odds ratio were used for the interpretation of the association. Result: The response rate of the respondents was 94.9%. The behavioral response for condom use messages was affected by grade level adjusted odds ratio, 0.473, 95% CI (0.252-0.886), knowledge adjusted odds ratio, 2.627, 95% CI (1.788-3.859), attitude adjusted odds ratio, 3.19, 95% CI (2.145-4.744), efficacy adjusted odds ratio, 3.286, 95% CI (2.03-5.339), and threat adjusted odds ratio, 0.249, 95% CI (0.167-0.369). The behavioral response for condom use messages was associated with danger control. Conclusion: The danger control response is 60.9%. Grade level, knowledge, attitude, and perceived and threat efficacies were independent predictors of danger control. Therefore, messages must aim to enhance threat component perception with appropriate efficacy to control danger and developed using scientific health communication strategies to promote behavioral change.

Intention to Donate Kidney and Associated Factors Among Students in Bahir Dar University: Application of Theory of Planned Behavior.

Background: Kidney donation is the donation of a kidney from a living or dead person to another living person who requires transplantation. The scarcity of kidneys is a great public health concern worldwide, owing to an increase in end-stage renal failure. There is no sufficient evidence regarding the intention to donate kidneys in Ethiopia. Objective: To assess the intention to donate kidneys and its associated factors among Bahir Dar University students in Ethiopia in 2023 by the application of theory of planned behavior. Method and Materials: This institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 7 to April 5, 2023. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 630 participants. Self-administered structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Data were entered into Epi-data version 4.6, and exported to the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed. Findings with a p-value <0.05 at the 95% confidence interval were considered statistically significant and interpreted by the unstandardized beta (ß) coefficient. Results: The mean score of intention to donate the kidney was 12.9 ± 4.1 standard deviation. Direct attitude (B = 0.341, 95% CI = 0.265, 0.416), direct subjective norm (B = 0.088, 95% CI = 0.010, 0.167), direct perceived behavioral control (B = 0.353, 95% CI 0.251, 0.455), knowledge (B = 0.417, 95% CI 0.251, 0.583), and previous experience of blood donation (B = 0.915, 95% CI 0.321, 1.510) were factors associated with intention to kidney donation. Conclusion: The mean score of intention to donate kidneys was 12.9 ± 4.1 SD. Direct attitude, direct subjective norm, direct perceived behavioral control, experience with blood donation, and knowledge of participants were significant factors for the intention to donate kidneys. Therefore, social and behavioral change communication strategies should address these factors in order to increase kidney donation.

Formula Feeding Practice and Associated Factors Among Mothers Who Visited Health Facilities for Their Infants Aged Below 6 Months in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020.

Background: Even though breastfeeding for infants and young children provides the ideal food for healthy growth and development, nowadays the use of infant formula feeding has increased worldwide. In developing countries, 1.3 million to 1.45 million childhood deaths are attributed to suboptimal breastfeeding practices. Objective: This study aimed to assess infant formula feeding practice and associated factors among mothers who visited health facilities for their infants aged less than 6 months in Bahir Dar city in 2020. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in March-May 2020. Data were collected from 593 randomly selected mothers with infants less than 6 months of age. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify associated factors of formula feeding practice with an a p-value of less than 0.05 and an adjusted odds ratio of 95% confidence interval. Results: The prevalence of infant formula feeding practices was 25%. Maternal age group of 25-34 years [AOR = 2.388; 95% CI: 1.295, 4.406], mother's occupation of private employee [AOR = 6.726; 95% CI: 2.756, 16.413], government employee [AOR = 4.726; 95% CI: 1.895, 8.700] and merchant [AOR = 2.798; 95% CI: 1.066, 7.345], positive attitude to infant formula [AOR = 2.10; CI: 1.09, 4.06], delayed breast milk initiation after delivery [AOR = 3.73; 95% CI: 1.504, 9.252], mothers who had 3 antenatal care [AOR = 2.294; 95% CI: 1.317, 3.997] and source of formula milk information from supermarket/pharmacy [AOR = 6.57; 95% CI: 1.48, 29.16] and from families/friends [AOR = 2.24; 95% CI: 1.24, 4.03] were independent predictors of infant formula feeding practice. Conclusion: This study's findings revealed that one-fourth of mothers fed infant formula before the age of 6 months. Therefore, we recommended promoting behavior change communication, focusing on attitude change in formula feeding practice and its health consequences, promoting exclusive breastfeeding practice, and strengthening ANC service provision.

Tuberculosis infection control practice and associated factors among health care workers in Ethiopia: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The poor practice of tuberculosis infection control may increase the risk of transmission of tuberculosis in healthcare settings. Thus, this study aimed to determine the pooled magnitude of good tuberculosis infection control practice and associated factors among healthcare workers in Ethiopia. METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) checklist guideline was followed for this review and meta-analysis. The electronic databases (Pub Med, Cochrane Library, Google scholar and grey literatures) were searched to retrieve articles by using keywords. The Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument was used to assess the quality of studies. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. The meta-analysis with a 95% confidence interval using STATA 17 software was computed to present the pooled practice and odds ratio of the determinant factors. Publication bias was assessed visually by inspecting the funnel plot asymmetry and using statistical tests using the eggers and begs test. RESULTS: Seven studies were included in this meta-analysis, with a total of 3256 health workers. The overall pooled magnitude of good tuberculosis infection control practice was 46.44% (95% CI: 34.21%, 58.67%). In subgroup analysis, the highest practice was in Addis Ababa 51.40% (95% CI: 47.40, 55.40%) and the lowest prevalence of tuberculosis infection control practice was in Amhara region 40.24% (95% CI: 15.46, 65.02%). Working in TB clinics (AOR; 7.42, 95% CI: 3.89, 14.13) and good TB related knowledge (AOR; 4.40, 95% CI: 1.76, 10.97) were the significant predictors of good TB infection control practice. CONCLUSIONS: Only less than half of the health care workers had good practice of TB infection control. Working in TB clinics and having good TB related knowledge were statistically significant predictors of TB infection control practice. Periodic shifting of health care workers to work in TB clinics and an emphasis on TB infection control related skill based training was recommended to increase the TB infection control practice.

Factors associated with the plan to pre-lacteal feeding for the first 6 months among Ethiopian mothers: a multilevel mixed effects analysis of 2019 performance monitoring for action Ethiopia.

INTRODUCTION: Despite efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, pre-lacteal feeding remains prevalent in Ethiopia. The study will use data from the 2019 Performance Monitoring for Action Ethiopia (PMA-ET), which is a nationally representative survey that collects information on maternal and child health indicators. Therefore, this study aims to identify individual and community-level factors associated with the plan to pre-lacteal feeding for the first six months among mothers in Ethiopia. METHODS: The datasets from the 2019 Performance Monitoring for Action Ethiopia Survey were analyzed in this study, which included 685 mothers from the survey. Stata version 17.0 was used for data analysis. Multi-level mixed-effect logistic regression was utilized to identify individual and community-level factors that are linked with the plan to pre-lacteal feeding. The strength and direction of the association were presented using an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval, and statistical significance was declared at a P value less than 0.05. RESULTS: The study found that factors significantly associated with the plan to pre-lacteal feeding included mothers without higher education (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.204-1.204), mothers belonging to poor households (AOR = 11.1, 95% CI: 3.482-35.175), and women in clusters with poor wealth status (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.043-0.509). CONCLUSION: As per the findings of the study, both individual and community-level factors were found to influence the decision to practice pre-lacteal feeding. Educational status and household wealth were significant individual-level factors associated with pre-lacteal feeding, whereas community wealth status was a significant community-level factor. To address this issue, it is recommended to focus on increasing the education level of mothers from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and providing education on the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and the risks associated with pre-lacteal feeding. These efforts can help in reducing the prevalence of this harmful practice.