Prevalence and associated factors of corneal opacity among adults in Kolladiba town, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of corneal opacity among adults in Kolladiba town, Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a systematic random sampling technique. A total of 846 adult individuals were recruited for the study. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of Gondar School of Medicine Ethical Review Committee. A standardised, semistructured questionnaire plus an ocular examination were used to collect the data. The data were entered into Epi Info V.7 and cleaned and analysed using SPSS V.26. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to select candidate variables and identify statistically significant factors. Variables with a p value of less than 0.05 according to the multivariable logistic regression analysis were considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The prevalence of corneal opacity among the study participants was 27.2% (95% CI 24.4% to 30.4%). In this study, age 49-60 years (adjusted OR (AOR): 1.90; 95% CI 1.03 to 3.32), age ≥61 years (AOR=2.12; 95% CI 1.17 to 3.87), inability to read and write (AOR=2.65; 95% CI 1.68 to 4.16), middle-income level (AOR=2.12; 95% CI 1.30 to 3.47) and poor income level (AOR=4.96; 95% CI 3.04 to 8.09) were factors that were significantly associated with corneal opacity.In this study, the prevalence of corneal opacity was considerably high. Being poor and unable to read and write were the primary factors significantly associated with corneal opacity. Hence, concerned stakeholders should strive to reverse the effects of corneal opacity on the quality of life of the study and causal studies should be considered in the future.

Patients' Satisfaction with Topical Anti-Glaucoma Medications and Associated Factors at Gondar University Tertiary Eye Care and Training Center, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Background: Glaucoma is one of the leading cause of global irreversible blindness if left untreated. Satisfaction is a multifaceted outcome based on sufficient information and encouragement from the practitioner and based on the medications' nature. Determining patients' satisfaction is essential to increase their courage in their long-time follow-up of medical care. Objective: To assess Patients' satisfaction with topical anti-glaucoma medications and associated factors among glaucoma patients at Gondar University Tertiary Eye Care and Training Center, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 30 to August 27, 2021, among 395 glaucoma patients at Gondar University Tertiary Eye Care and Training Center. Data was entered into Epi info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 26 software for analysis. A Binary logistic regression model was used to determine factors associated with satisfaction with topical anti-glaucoma medications. Statistical significance was considered when p-value < 0.05. Results: A total of 395 study subjects participated in the study with a response rate of 93.38%. The overall satisfaction with topical anti-glaucoma medication was 62.5% with 95% CI: (57.5-67.8%). The absence of ocular side effects (AOR=5.39, 95% CI: 2.35-12.37) and the absence of ocular surface diseases (AOR=4.12, 95% CI: 1.69-10.09) were significantly associated with patient satisfaction. Conclusion: More than half of the study participants were satisfied with topical anti-glaucoma medications. The absence of ocular side effects and absence of Ocular surface diseases were significantly associated with patient satisfaction with anti-glaucoma medication.

Postoperative trachomatous trichiasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis study.

BACKGROUND: Trachomatous trichiasis is the potential stage of trachoma in which the eyelashes scratch the surface of the globe, ultimately causing corneal opacity, visual impairment and blindness. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to obtain the pooled prevalence and associated factors of postoperative trachomatous trichiasis (PTT) in World Health Organization (WHO) trachoma-endemic regions. METHODS: An inclusive literature search was undertaken using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct and Google Scholar databases from 30 May 2022 to 28 June 2022. I2 statistics and funnel plots were used to determine heterogeneity and publication bias among included studies. A random effects model was used to estimate pooled prevalence, incidence and odds ratios (ORs) with the respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using RevMan 5.4 software. RESULTS: Eighteen articles were included in this meta-analysis and systematic review. The pooled prevalence of PTT was 19% (range 18-21). PTT was lower among young adults compared with old adults (OR 0.63 [95% CI 0.44 to 0.92]), single-dose oral azithromycin as compared with tetracycline eye ointment users (OR 0.82 [95% CI 0.69 to 0.99]) and minor trichiasis before surgery as compared with major trichiasis (OR 0.63 [95% CI 0.47 to 0.85]). CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of PTT was higher than the WHO's recommendation. Prescribing single-dose oral azithromycin after surgery, periodic training for trichiasis surgeons, close follow-up and health education after surgery are crucial to minimize the recurrence.Study protocol registration on PROSPERO: CRD42022336003.

Vision-Related Quality of Life and Associated Factors Among an Adult Population with Glaucoma Attending a Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Glaucoma is a group of ocular conditions that leads to irreversible blindness. It can affect the vision-related quality of life in many ways. In Ethiopia, limited information is available on how and to what extent the vision-related quality of life of the glaucoma population has been affected. Objective: This study attempted to assess the vision-related quality of life and associated factors among an adult population with glaucoma attending Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted on the adult population with glaucoma attending Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Systematic random sampling was employed to select 319 study participants. Descriptive and summary statistics were calculated. Simple and multiple linear regressions were performed to determine factors associated with vision-related quality of life. A p-value of <0.05 in multivariable regression was considered statistically significant at a 95% confidence level. Results: The mean glaucoma quality of life-15 score in this study was 47.85 ± 15.41. Below primary education, primary education, visual acuity of the better eye, visual acuity of the worse eye, and severe glaucoma were significantly associated with the glaucoma quality of life-15 score. Conclusion and Recommendation: The study observed poorer vision-related quality of life in the glaucoma population than previously reported in Ethiopia and around the globe. The vision-related quality of life was significantly associated with educational status, visual acuity of the better and worse eye, and stage of glaucoma in the better eye. Educating the glaucoma population on the nature of the disease, advice on early presentation, and better-coping strategies for the condition are warranted.

Factors associated with diabetic retinopathy screening and regular eye checkup practice among diabetic patients attending Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital.

AIM: To identify associated factors of diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening and ey e check-up practice among diabetes mellitus (DM) patients attending Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was applied from October 4, 2019 to January 12, 2020 at Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital. A systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit participants and an interviewer-administered questionnaire was employed to collect the data. The collected data were entered into Epi Info version 7 and transposed to SPSS version 24 for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics were executed and associated factors were identified using binary logistic regression. The strength of association between the independent and the outcome variable was determined using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: Four hundred and six participants partake with a response rate of 95.7% and a mean age of 47±11.5y. The magnitude of DR screening was 308 (75.9%, 95%CI: 71.5%, 79.8%). Higher educational level (AOR=3.25; 95%CI: 1.40, 8.78), good knowledge of DR (AOR=2.50; 95%CI: 1.55, 4.46), and family history of DM (AOR=2.15; 95%CI: 1.41, 3.85) were significantly associated with DR screening. On the other side, rural residence [AOR=3.11 (1.89, 5.02)] and undesirable attitudes toward DR [AOR=5.65 (3.14, 8.76)] were significantly associated with poor regular eye checkup practice. CONCLUSION: Most of the participants are screened for DR. Higher education, family history, and good knowledge are associated with DR screening. In addition, rural residence and undesirable attitudes toward DR are associated with regular eye checkup practice.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anemia Among Newborns at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Introduction: Anemia is a common hematological problem in neonatal admissions. Poor detection rate and inappropriate treatment adversely affect the growing infant. Data on the magnitude and risk factors of anemia in sick newborns are lacking in Ethiopia, so knowing the prevalence and risk factors may reduce the long-term untreated complications of anemia. Objective: The overall aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of anemia among newborns admitted to Tibebe Ghion specialized hospital. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 272 newborns admitted to Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital from February 1 to May 30, 2021. A pretested structured questionnaire containing socio-demographic, clinical, and laboratory parameters was used for the data collection. Data were collected by trained nurses and residents after obtaining ethical clearance. The data were entered through Epi-data version 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 computer software. Descriptive statistics were performed using frequency, mean and standard deviation. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regressions were done to identify risk factors of anemia. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval at a p-value <0.05 was declared as a statistically significant variable in the multivariable logistic regression. Results: About two-thirds 177 (65.1%) of the newborn babies were male and 152 (55.9%) of the newborn had a birth weight of ≥2500 grams. The most commonly diagnosed medical conditions were sepsis 218 (80.1%) and prematurity of birth 78 (28.7%). The prevalence of anemia among newborns in this study was 63 (23.2%) [19.1-28.7%]. Gestational age of 33-36 weeks (AOR=0.36: 95% CI=0.17-0.96) and maternal anemia (AOR=3.81: 95% CI=1.29-11.23) were significantly associated with newborn anemia. Conclusion: The prevalence of anemia among newborns in Tibebe Ghion specialized hospital was high. Gestational age and maternal anemia were significantly associated with newborn anemia. So, it is better to properly educate and advise women about newborn anemia during antenatal care follow-up.

Cognitive impairment and associated factors among mature and older adults living in the community of Gondar town, Ethiopia, 2020.

Cognitive impairment and dementia are age-related major public health concerns in the elderly population. It is a major cause of disability, dependency, and poor quality of life. However, in Ethiopia, the magnitude of this cognitive impairment among the elderly community was not investigated. Hence, this study sought to determine the prevalence of cognitive impairment and associated factors among mature and older adults living in the community of Gondar town, Ethiopia, in 2020. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Gondar town, from February 20 to April 30, 2020. Using a single-stage cluster sampling technique, 403 study participants were recruited. Data was collected by a pretested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire which consisting of sociodemographic variables, the Oslo Social Support Scale, and a Standardized Mini-mental State Examination (SMMSE) tool. Epi data version 3.0 was used to enter coded data and then exported into STATA 14 for analysis. Variables with a p-value < 0.25 in the bi-variable logistic regression were included in the multivariable regression. From multivariable logistic regression, variables having a p-value ≤ 0.05 were declared as statistically significant variables. In this study, a total of 403 study participants were involved, and 393 (97.5%) of them completed the survey. Among older participants screened for cognitive impairment, 43.8% was positive for cognitive impairment with a 95% CI (38.8-48.7%). The majority of the participants were (57.5%) male and (44.8%) aged over 60 years. After adjustment, the variables associated with cognitive impairment were age ≥ 75 years [odds ratio (OR) = 7.03, 95% CI 2.78-17.77] and between 61 and 74 years [OR = 3.18, 95% CI 1.81-5.59], and unable to read and write [OR = 5.05, 95% CI 2.04-12.50], low income level [OR = 2.60, 95% CI 1.26-5.20], being female [OR = 2.52, 95% CI 1.50-4.26], poor social support [OR = 2.50, 95% CI 1.30-4.81], and rural residence [OR = 2.39, 95% CI 1.26-4.51]. The prevalence of older participants who screened positively for cognitive impairment was high at Gondar town. The independent predictors of cognitive impairment among older individuals were older age, being unable to read and write, being female, low income, poor social support, and rural dwelling. Therefore, routine screening and social support, as well as free healthcare services for the mature and older community, are needed. Moreover, we strongly recommend the next researcher to use a diagnosis tool to estimate the actual prevalence of the problems among older people.

Predictors of dream enactment behavior among medical students: The case of the University of Gondar, Ethiopia.

INTRODUCTION: Dream enactment behavior is one of the features of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder. It might be a manifestation of neurodegenerative diseases and can lead to fall associated injuries. There is no evidence of dream enactment behavior and its associated factors in Ethiopia. Hence, this study targeted to pinpoint the predictors of dream enactment behavior among Medical students at the University of Gondar. METHODS: The cross-sectional survey was carried out at the University of Gondar among Medical students selected by simple random sampling technique from Dec 2020 to Feb 2021. We used a structured pretested questionnaire to collect the data and dream enactment behavior was evaluated using rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder single question. Descriptive statistics were computed, and determinant factors were identified using binary logistic regression model. In the final model, explanatory variables with a p<0.05 were considered as predictors (statistically significant) of the dream enactment behavior. The strength of association was determined using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with its 95% CI. RESULTS: Four-hundred and twelve students took part in the study with 97.4% response rate. The mean age of participants was 20.82(±1.88) years and 291(70.63%) were males. The prevalence of dream enactment was 34.47% (95% CI: 30.02-39.20). Daytime sleepiness score (AOR = 1.104; 95% CI: 1.053-1.160), age (AOR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.019-1.290), monthly pocket money (AOR = 0.9991; 95% CI: 0.9985-0.9997), alcohol drink (AOR = 2.71; 95% CI: 1.076-6.846), and perceived stress (AOR = 3.854; 95% CI: 1.802-8.242) were statistically significant factors of dream enactment behavior. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the magnitude of dream enactment behavior was high which was significantly associated with daytime sleepiness score, age, monthly pocket money, alcohol drink, and perceived stress all of which are modifiable except age. The University of Gondar has to plan a strategy to avert the condition via the prevention of the determinant factors. Students need to reduce stress and avoid alcohol drink. We strongly urge forthcoming scholars to ascertain association of dream enactment and academic performance of university students.

Visual impairment and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care units at health institutions in Gondar City Administration, Northwest Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Visual impairment is a major public health concern among women of reproductive age groups in Ethiopia, which is getting worse during pregnancy. Though visual impairment has lots of serious consequences across the life course of pregnant women, there is no previous study on this topic in Ethiopia. Thus, this study determined the prevalence of visual impairment and identified associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care units at the governmental health institutions in Gondar City Administration, Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit the study participants. We used an interviewer-administered questionnaire comprising of socio-demographic, clinical and pregnancy-related variables to collect the required data. Snellen's illiterate "E" chart was used to determine visual impairment. EpiData 3 and Stata 14 were used for data entry and statistical analysis, respectively. Both bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were executed to identify associated factors of visual impairment. Variables with a p-value ≤0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression analysis were declared as statistically significant with visual impairment. RESULTS: A total of 417 (response rate = 98.6%) participants were involved in this study, with a median age of 27 years. The overall prevalence of visual impairment was 22.5% (95% CI: 18.5-26.6). Thirty (7.2%) and thirty-two (7.7%) of the study participants had moderate to severe visual impairments in their right and left eyes, respectively. Participants aged from 31 to 49 years (AOR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1-4.0), being 3rd trimester (AOR = 2.4; 95% CI: 1.3-4.5), multi & grand multipara (AOR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.2-4.6), and history of contraceptive use (AOR = 2.7; 95% CI: 1.2-6.3) had higher chance of visual impairment. CONCLUSION: The magnitude of visual impairment among pregnant women was high in the study area. Therefore, routine screening and evaluation of pregnant women for visual condition during antenatal care visits is recommended. Further investigations of visual changes, particularly as a result of pregnancy, are warranted.

Active trachoma prevalence and its associated factors among children aged 1-9 years in rural residents of Lare District, Southwest Ethiopia.

AIM: To determine the prevalence of active trachoma and its associated factors among children in Lare District, Southwest Ethiopia, 2019. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 620 participants were recruited using a multi-stage sampling technique. A structured questionnaire, torch, and magnifying loupes were used for data collection. The data was entered into epidemiological information and exported to statistical package for social science version 20 for analysis. The bi-variable and multivariable Logistic regression analysis model was fitted to identify factors associated with active trachoma. Odds ratio with a 95%CI was used to show the direction and strength of association between independent and outcome variables. RESULTS: A total of 610 children participated in this study with a response rate of 98.39%. The prevalence of active trachoma was 132 (21.60%; 95%CI: 18.40-24.70). Family size being 6-9 (AOR=2.34; 95%CI: 1.14-5.02), presence of more than two preschool children in a house (AOR=2.04; 95%CI: 1.12-3.70), open field waste disposal system (AOR=2.62; 95%CI: 1.00-6.80) and type of latrine being uncovered (AOR=4.12; 95%CI: 2.00-8.51) were positively associated with active trachoma. On the other side, water consumption being 40-60 liters per day was a protective factor for active trachoma. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of active trachoma is high among children aged 1-9y in Lare District. Uncovered latrine, open field waste disposal system, family sizes of 6-9, and the presence of more than two preschool children in a house are associated with the occurrence of active trachoma. On the other side, water consumption of 40-60 liters is a protective factor.

Microvascular complications and its predictors among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients at Dessie town hospitals, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is a serious metabolic disorder which becomes common in middle and low incomes countries since few decades. Microvascular complications include retinopathy, neuropathy and nephropathy all of which can lead to disability, dependency, accelerate their morbidity, and mortality. In Ethiopia, there is paucity data regarding this topic. Hence, this study aimed to assess prevalence of microvascular complications and its predictors among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. METHODS: Cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2020 at Dessie town hospitals. We used simple random sampling to recruit study participants and pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire to collect the data. Data was entered into Epi-Data 3.1 and exported to SPSS-23 for analysis. Binary logistic regression was done to select potential variables to be adjusted at p ≤ 0.25. After running multivariable regression, variables with a p-value ≤ 0.05 were declared as statistically significant. RESULTS: Three hundred and thirty-five type 2 DM patients participated in the study, of which 54.6% were males. One hundred and twenty-seven [37.9% (95% CI 32.5%-43.3%)] of diabetes mellitus had at least one microvascular complications. These were retinopathy 24.8%, nephropathy 16.1%, and neuropathy 8.1%. Age 60-87 years (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI 1.02-7.46), duration of diabetes > 5 years (AOR = 4.09, 95% CI 2.40-6.96), mellitus and co-morbid hypertension (AOR = 3.52, 95% CI 2.09-5.95), were statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, diabetic microvascular complications are prevalent. Increasing the age of participants, longer duration of diabetes mellitus and co-morbid hypertension were independent predictors. Health workers should give emphasis for diabetes mellitus through early screening and health education, abrupt medication for aged patients with long duration of diabetes mellitus, and hypertension, and also early detection and management of microvascular complication.

Visual impairment and its associated factors among medical and health sciences students at the University of Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Visual impairment (VI) is a decreased ability to see things which is critical problem for health professionals and students to whom normal vision is essential for their daily activity. If it is not timely managed, visual impairment leads to physical, psychological, and socio-economic malfunctions to the victims and nation. Despite the above impacts, currently there is no study in Ethiopia on this topic. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of visual impairment and its associated factors among Medical and Health Science students at the University of Gondar. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2020 among Medical and Health Science students. After recruiting study participants using systematic random sampling technique, we applied pre-tested self-administered questionnaire for sociodemographic variables and also visual acuity measurement was performed using Snellen chart placed at a distance of 6 meters. Visual acuity tested separately for each eye and for both eyes in a well- illuminated area. Pinhole was used for those participants with a visual acuity of < 6/9. Participants with a presenting visual acuity of < 6/12 in the better eye were diagnosed as having visual impairment. Epi data version 3.1 and stata version 14 were used for data entry and statistical analysis, respectively. Binary logistic regression was used, and the Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with the 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was reported to declare the statistical significance and strength of association between VI and independent variables. RESULTS: A total of 654 students were screened for visual acuity. The prevalence of visual impairment was 12.5% (95% CI: 10.21, 15.31). Age above 25 years (AOR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.02, 3.26) and current alcohol drinking (AOR = 2.9; 95% CI: 1.7, 5.00), were statistically significant factors of visual impairment. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of visual impairment among medical and health science students was high. Age of study participant and current alcohol consumption were statically significant factors. This study warrants the routine screening of Medical and Health science students for visual impairment.

Willingness of corneal donation and its associated factors among adult patients attending Gondar University Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital.

INTRODUCTION: Corneal transplantation is the only treatment option for corneal blindness to restore sight. However, there is a disproportionate imbalance between the demand and supply of corneal tissue in Ethiopia. This is because accessing corneal tissue is reliant on people who are willing to donate corneas after death. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the proportion of willingness to donate cornea and associated factors among adult patients attending at University of Gondar comprehensive and specialized hospital. METHOD: Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 13 to July 28, 2020, through a face-to-face interview. A total of 451 samples were selected using systematic random sampling. The data were entered into Epidemiological information version 7 and exported to statistical package for social science version 20 for formal analysis. Variables with a P-value of < 0.20 in a bi-variable logistic regression were entered into the multivariable logistic regression and those variables with a p-value of < 0.05 were taken as statistically significant. The strength of association was shown using the odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval. RESULT: A total of 408 adults participated in this study with a response rate of 90% and the proportion of willingness to donate cornea was 179(43.90%). Participants who had a religious belief in Christianity (AOR = 3.23 (95% CI: 1.09-9.57)) and good knowledge about corneal donation (AOR = 5.45(95%CI: 2.69-11.18)) were positively associated with the willingness of corneal donation. On the other side, the age group above 43 years (AOR = 0.31(95% CI: 0.11-0.89) was negatively associated with the willingness of corneal donation. CONCLUSION: The proportion of willingness to donate cornea 43.9% among participants attending Gondar University Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital. Age group greater than 43 years, religion of Christianity and good knowledge were associated with the willingness of corneal donation.

Willingness of Ethiopian Population to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine.

BACKGROUND: Despite efforts to decrease the burden, vaccine reluctance is increasing worldwide and hindering efforts to control the spread of COVID-19. Therefore, understanding the willingness of a community to receive a COVID-19 vaccine will help to develop and implement effective means of promoting COVID-19 vaccine uptake. OBJECTIVES: This study was aimed to assess the willingness of the Ethiopian population to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and its determinant factors. METHODS: E-survey was conducted from February 2021 to March 2021. After developing the questionnaire, the template was created on Google Forms and disseminated in public on different social media channels (e.g., Telegram, WhatsApp, Facebook, email, etc.) by using a shareable link. Descriptive statistics were performed. Finally, multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to assess their relationship with socio-demographic factors. RESULTS: In total, 31.4% (n = 372) of respondents were willing to get a vaccine. One-third of respondents, 32.2% (n = 381), reported that COVID-19 vaccines are safe. Almost all 94.9% (n = 1124) responded that health workers should be vaccinated first. Only 21.7% (n = 257) willing to buy the vaccine if it is not provided free. Being female [OR (95% CI):1.85 (1.05-3.25)], aged less than 25 years old [OR (95% CI): 5.09 (3.41-7.59)], aged between 26-30 years [OR (95% CI): 3.57 (2.55-5.00)], being unmarried[OR (95% CI):1.12 (0.81-1.55)], urban in residence [OR (95% CI): 1.06 (0.69-1.62)], private sector worker in occupation [OR (95% CI):0.45 (0.26 -0.77)], university/college student [OR (95% CI): 0.88 (0.59-1.32)], not having a health-related job [OR (95% CI): 4.08 (2.57-6.48)], orthodox [OR (95% CI): 1.16 (0.61-2.19)], Muslim [OR (95% CI): 0.285 (0.13 -0.61)], educational status of university/above [OR (95% CI): 4.87 (3.15-7.53)] have a statistically significant association and were more likely willing to take COVID-19 than their counterparts. CONCLUSION: This study found that only 31.4% were willing to take the COVID-19 vaccine. Being female, older age, marital status, residence, occupations, not having a health-related job, religion, educational status were statistically significantly associated with willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Prevalence of Strabismus and Its Associated Factors Among School-Age Children Living in Bahir Dar City: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: Strabismus is a manifest deviation of the eye that exceeds the control of the fusional mechanism so that the eyes are misaligned under binocular conditions. Its prevalence reaches from 0.7% to 5% globally and 1.5% to 17.9% in Ethiopia. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of strabismus and its associated factors among school-age children living in Bahir Dar city. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 15 to May 25, 2019, in Bahir Dar city and a total of 632 participants were recruited using a multistage sampling technique. The data were collected with a face-to-face interview, Snellen acuity, prisms, pen torch, portable slit lamp, and ophthalmoscope. The collected data were entered into Epi Info version 7 and transposed to statistical package for social science version 20 for formal statistical analysis. Frequency (percentage), mean (standard deviation), tables and graphs were used to present the summary statistics. All variables with a p-value of less than 0.2 in bi-variable logistic regression were entered into multiple logistic regression and variables with a p-value of less than 0.05 were taken as significantly associated with strabismus. The strength of association between variables was shown with an odds ratio and a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: A total of 611 children participated with a response rate of 96.7% and a mean age of 12.3 (±3.25). The prevalence of strabismus was 31 (5.0%), 95% CI: (3.45, 6.97). Family history of strabismus (AOR= 3.9 (95% CI: 1.71, 11.22)), hyperopia ≥ +3.00 diopters sphere (AOR=5.3 (95% CI: 2.01, 10.77)), and not with exclusive breastfeeding (AOR= 2.9 (95% CI: 1.14, 4.71)) were the only risk factors found for strabismus. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of strabismus was 5% among children living in Bahr Dar city. A family history of strabismus, not with exclusive breastfeeding, and hyperopia ≥ +3.00 diopters sphere were associated with strabismus.

Prevalence and associated factors of myopia among school children in Bahir Dar city, Northwest Ethiopia, 2019.

BACKGROUND: Myopia is the leading cause of correctable visual impairment and preventable blindness worldwide. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of myopia. Myopia is appearing with greater prevalence in young children. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of myopia among school children in Bahir Dar city, Northwest Ethiopia, 2019. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among school children of 6 to 18 years of age in Bahir Dar city from October to November 2019. A pretested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data among 634 participants using a multi-stage sampling technique from primary and secondary schools. Cycloplegic refraction was performed by optometrists for each student with 1% cyclopentolate eye drop, and subjective refraction was carried out to determine the final prescription of the students. Myopia was defined as spherical equivalent refractive error of ≥ 0.5 diopter in either eye. Data were entered into Epi Info version 7 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23 for analysis. Tables, frequency, and mean were used for descriptive statistics. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to identify risk factors of myopia. Odds ratio with 95% confidence level was determined and variables with p-value of < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. RESULTS: Among a total of 601 study participants, 51 (8.49%) were myopic. Age group of 10-13 years (AOR = 6.54: 95% CI = 5.56-10.86), 14-18 years (AOR = 6.32: 95% CI = 5.32-9.69), 2-4 hour per day mobile exposure (AOR = 3.69: 95% CI = 1.63-8.38), > 4 hour per day mobile exposure (AOR = 11.6: 95% CI = 4.41-30.42), near working distance of < 33 centimeter (AOR = 6.89: 95% CI = 2.71-17.56) and outdoor activity (AOR = 3.94: 95% CI = 1.87-8.31) were significantly associated with myopia. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of myopia was high among school children in Bahir Dar city. Older age, longer duration of mobile exposure, shorter near working distance were the risk factors for the development of myopia whereas having outdoor activity was the protective factor.

Level of Glaucoma Drug Adherence and Its Associated Factors Among Adult Glaucoma Patients Attending Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital, Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Glaucoma is a chronic optic nerve disease, often asymptomatic in an early stage, which is usually associated with elevated intraocular pressure. Good adherence to ocular hypotensive agents is essential to control the intraocular pressure and optic nerve damage. There is limited information on glaucoma drug adherence and associated factors in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area. OBJECTIVE: To determine the level of glaucoma drug adherence and associated factors among adult glaucoma patients attending Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2019. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Felege Hiwot specialized Hospital from March 2019 to May 2019. A systematic random sampling method was used to select 402 study participants. A structured questionnaire was prepared, and adherence was assessed by using self-report questions. The collected data were entered into Epi data version 4.2.2.1 and exported into Statistical Package for Social Science version 23 for analysis. Tables, graphs, frequency, mean, and standard deviation were used for descriptive statistics. Variables with a p-value of <0.2 in the bivariable logistic regression were entered in the multivariable logistic regression, and variables with a p-value of <0.05 under multivariable analysis were taken as statistically significant factors for glaucoma drug adherence. RESULTS: Among a total of 390 study participants, 212 (56.2%) were adherent to their topical medication. Early glaucoma (AOR=2.8: 95% CI =1.29-5.91), normal vision (AOR=1.9: 95% CI=1.15-3.09), urban residence (AOR=1.6: 95% CI=1.03-2.51), family support (AOR=1.7: 95% CI=1.06-2.76) and information from pharmacist (AOR=1.8: 95% CI=1.11-2.99) were significantly associated with adherence. CONCLUSION: The level of glaucoma drug adherence was 56.2% among patients attending Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital. Early glaucoma, normal visual acuity, family support, information on medication from the pharmacist, and urban residence were positively associated with adherence.

Prevalence of pterygium and its associated factors among adults aged 18 years and above in Gambella town, Southwest Ethiopia, May 2019.

INTRODUCTION: A pterygium is a wing-shaped fibro-vascular growth of conjunctiva on the superficial cornea/conjunctiva. It is an elastotic degeneration of conjunctival stroma mainly due to Ultraviolet light exposure. The prevalence of pterygium varies in different environmental conditions. Its magnitude varies widely from 1.1% to 53% globally and in Ethiopia, it reaches from 8.8% to 38.7%. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of pterygium and its associated factors among adults aged 18 years and above in Gambella town, Southwest Ethiopia, 2019. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 15 to May 3, 2019, in Gambella town. A total of 402 study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire, torch, and magnifying loops were used to collect data. The data was entered into epidemiological information 7.1 and exported to statistical package for social science version 20 for analysis. The binary and multivariate logistic regression analysis model was fitted to identify factors associated with pterygium. Odds ratio with respected 95% CI was used to identify the direction and strength of association. RESULTS: A total of 400 participants were examined with a response rate of 99.50%. The mean age of the study participants was 39.9±9.8years. The prevalence of pterygium among adults aged 18 years and above in Gambella town was 127(31.80%), (95% CI: 27.3, 36.3). male sex (AOR = 2.10 (95% CI: 1.26, 3.45), sunlight exposure (AOR = 6.86 (95% CI: 4.00, 11.79) and outdoor works (AOR = 2.10 (95% CI: 1.21, 3.60) were positively associated with pterygium whereas wearing sunglass/hat was a protective factor. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of pterygium was high among adults living in Gambella town. Wearing sunglass/hat and reducing exposure time to the sun was important to reduce the development of pterygium in adults.

Prevalence of vernal keratoconjunctivitis and its associated factors among children in Gambella town, southwest Ethiopia, June 2018.

INTRODUCTION: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is a chronic bilateral severe form of allergic conjunctivitis which affects normal activities in school/work. It is a severe form of allergies in warm and dry tropical and sub-tropical countries. Its prevalence in Ethiopia ranges from 5.2% to7.3%. Most studies are institution based and do not address specific factors associated with vernal keratoconjunctivitis. There is no a study that shows the magnitude of vernal keratoconjunctivitis in the study area. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of vernal keratoconjunctivitis and its associated factors among children in Gambella town, Southwest Ethiopia, 2018. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 25 to May 12, 2018, in Gambella town. A total of 578 study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire, torch, and magnifying loop were used to collect data. The data was entered into epidemiological information 7.1 and exported to statistical package for social science for analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis model was fitted to identify factors associated with vernal keratoconjunctivitis. Odds ratio with respected 95% CI was used to identify the direction and strength of association. RESULTS: A total of 574 children participated in this study representing a response rate of 99.30%. The mean age of the participants was 9.74±4.0 years. The prevalence of vernal keratoconjunctivitis was 11.10% (95% CI: 8.70, 13.90). Male sex (adjusted odds ratio = 4.12(95% CI: 1.42, 11.91)), close animal contact (adjusted odds ratio = 3.45(95% CI: 1.14, 10.41)), dust exposure (adjusted odds ratio = 3.38(95% CI: 1.31, 10.04)), and personal systemic allergy history (adjusted odds ratio = 4.82(1.40, 16.72) were independently associated with vernal keratoconjunctivitis. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of VKC was high among children in Gambella town. Sex being male, close animal contact, personal systemic allergy history, and dust exposure were positively associated with vernal keratoconjunctivitis independently.