Prevalence and factors associated with short birth interval in the semi-rural community of Kaya, Burkina Faso: results of a community-based survey.

BACKGROUND: A short birth interval adversely affects the health of mothers and children. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of short birth intervals and identify their associated factors in a semi-urban setting in Burkina Faso. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in which data were collected in households between May and October 2022. The dependent variable was the short birth interval (SBI), defined by the World Health Organization as the time between two live births. We performed a multilevel mixed-effects Poisson regression with robust variance to determine the factors associated with the SBI by reporting adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: A total of 5544 birth intervals were recorded from 4067 women. A short birth interval was found in 1503 cases out of 5544, i.e., a frequency of 27.1%. The prevalence of short birth interval (time between two live births less than 33 months) was higher in never users of modern contraceptive users (aPR = 1.24; 95% CI [1.14-1.34] vs. previous users), in younger ages with aPR of 4.21 (95% CI [3.30-5.37]), 2.47 (95% CI [1.96-3.11]), and 1.45 (95% CI [1.16-1.81]), respectively for under 18, 18-24 years old, and 25-34 years old, compared to 35 and over. Childbirths occurring before the implementation of the maternal and infant free health care policy (aPR = 2.13; 95% CI [1.98-2.30]) and also before the free family planning policy (aPR = 1.53; 95% CI [1.28-1.81]) were more likely to have SBI. Women with low socio-economic positions were also more likely to have SBI. CONCLUSION: This study found a high SBI in Burkina Faso (more than one woman out of four). Our results have programmatic implications, as some factors, such as contraceptive practice and socioeconomic status, are modifiable. These factors need particular attention to lengthen birth intervals and, in turn, improve mother-child couple health by reducing short birth interval consequences.

Magnitude, associated factors of difficult airway, and predictive value of airway examinations among maxillofacial surgery patients at public hospitals in Southern Ethiopia: a multicentre cross-sectional study.

Background: "Difficult airway" is the clinical situation in which a conventionally trained anesthesiologist experiences difficulty with mask ventilation, laryngoscopy, and difficulty with tracheal intubation, or both. Associated factors and predictive value difficult airways, maxillofacial surgery study setup is under studied. Objective: To determine the magnitude and associated factors of difficult airways and predictive value of airway examinations among adult patients who underwent maxillofacial surgery at public hospitals in Southern Ethiopia 2022. Methods and materials: An institutional-based multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 maxillofacial patients from March to 30 June 2022 at selected hospitals. The data were entered into Epi_Data software version 4.3 and analyzed by STATA software version 14. All variables that were statistically significant in bivariate analysis, at the P less than 0.25, were included in the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The predictive value or the effectiveness of airway examinations in predicting difficult airways was analyzed by receiver operating curve. Results: In the current study, the magnitude of difficult airways was 21.2% (95% CI = 16.3-26.1%) and the magnitude of difficult intubation, difficult laryngoscopy, and difficult mask ventilation was 6.4% (95% CI 3.3-9.4%), 9.6% (95% CI 6.1-13%), and 13.6% (95% CI (9.1-16.8%), respectively. History of head and neck surgery adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=6.3, 95% CI (2.85-14.34), cervical collar AOR=4.9, 95% CI (1.96-12.49), and cervical spine injury AOR=2.4, 95% CI (1.07-5.38) were independently and significantly associated with difficulty of airway. Modified Mallampati class and sternomental distance were identified as good preoperative tests to predict difficult laryngoscopy, intubation, and mask ventilation. Conclusion and recommendation: The magnitude of difficult airways was maxillofacial surgery. Among various airway assessment tests, no single test was perfectly accurate. Anaesthesia professionals are recommended to use a combination of preoperative airway assessments.

Impacts of clinical psychiatric posting experience on specialization intention and associated factors among Nursing Science students.

BACKGROUND: Globally, there is increasingly high prevalence of mental disorders across all age groups and social classes with more being projected by 2030, but without commensurate resources for mental health care delivery especially in developing countries. PURPOSE: This study examined the impacts of clinical psychiatric posting on career choice in psychiatry among nursing students in Ebonyi state, Nigeria. METHODS: A prospective cohort research design was used and data were collected using attitude towards psychiatry (ATP), mental illness clinician attitude scale (MICA-4) and researcher developed questionnaires on career choice in pre and post clinical posting approach. This study was conducted between November, 2023 to May 2024. A sample size of 400 students (with data collected before posting and after posting) were involved in the study. Data were coded, cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 26. McNemar Test was used to determine effects of clinical posting on career choices in psychiatry. Simple and multiple logistic regressions were used to analyze data on determinants of career choices in psychiatry. The hypotheses (Null and alternative hypotheses) were tested at p-value < 0.05. RESULTS: Psychiatric and mental health nursing was one of the least preferred specialty, 21(6%) respondents showed interest before clinical posting and 25(7.1%) after the posting. Commonly preferred specialty was pediatric nursing (20.5%), community health nursing (17.1%) and midwifery (17.7%). McNemer test showed no statistically significant differences in choice of psychiatry before and after clinical posting. Key determinants of career choices were interest in psychiatry (AOR = 16.06(95% CI = 1.10, 14.96) P = 0.009), interest in community services (AOR = 4.01(95% CI = 1.32, 12.20)P = 0.014), family influence(AOR = 13.76(95% CI = 1.74, 108.57)p = 0.013) and job satisfaction(AOR = 0.10(95% CI = 0.03, 0.26)P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The researcher therefore concluded that clinical psychiatric posting has no significant impacts on career choices in psychiatry among nursing students in Nigeria. Interest of the students, family influence and job satisfaction were significantly associated with career choices among the respondents.

Analysis of care-seeking pathways and factors influencing early and appropriate care-seeking for malaria patients in the Republic of Guinea: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Malaria is a major public health issue in Guinea and care-seeking behaviour is dominated by self-medication and delayed access to appropriate care. However early and appropriate care-seeking are essential to control and reduce complicate forms and mortality, particularly for the most vulnerable. This study was conducted to analyse the diagnostic pathway, and the factors associated with early and appropriate care-seeking for malaria patients in the Republic of Guinea. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out between December 2022 to March 2023 in nine health districts within health facilities and at community level. The study population was confirmed malaria patients with RDT or microscopy. Kroeger's conceptual framework was used to design the questionnaire. Conventional recourse was defined as using a healthcare facility or community services, early and appropriate care-seeking was defined as within 24 h of symptom onset in a conventional recourse, and care pathway as the sequence of recourses followed by each patient. Sankey alluvial plots were used to represent patients' diagnostic pathways, and logistic regression to identify factors associated with early and appropriate care-seeking. RESULTS: A total of 3300 malaria patients were studied, of which 1632 (49.45%) were female and 1132 (34.30%) were under 5 years of age, with a median age of 23 months. At the time of the survey, 1337 (40.52%), 1423 (43.12%), and 437 (13.85%) of patients were respectively in their first, second and third recourse. A total of 2002 (60.67%) patients had sought care from a conventional recourse as a first line. Of all patients, 1757 (53.25%) had sought care within 24 h, while 28.55% had sought early and appropriate care. In the initial stages of treatment, self-medication was the most common approach, used by 1214 (37.30%). Patients from the health districts of Boffa (Lower Guinea, coastal region) OR = 0.48 95% CI 0.33-0.70, Dabola (Upper Guinea, savanna region) OR = 0.43 95% CI 0.30-0.63 and Labe (Middle Guinea, mountain region) OR = 0.63 CI 95% 0.43-0.91 (p < 0.05) were more likely to delay appropriate care-seeking, when compared to those in Dixinn, (Conakry). However, the under 5-year-old group OR = 1.55 95% CI 1.30-1.85 (p < 0.001) and the availability of a stable monthly household income OR = 4.98 95% CI 3.03, 8.27 (p < 0.001) were positively associated with early and appropriate care seeking. CONCLUSION: A low rate of early and appropriate care-seeking was observed. Patients sought care through multiple means, often resulting in a delay in adequate management. The results show the need to deploy strategies adapted to the needs of communities.

Knowledge, attitude and practices towards prevention and early detection of chronic kidney disease and associated factors in Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Early detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is important because it enables clinicians to initiate effective treatment, preventing loss of kidney function, and delaying or avoiding progression to kidney failure. This study was aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices towards prevention and early detection of CKD and associated factors. Methods: Institution based cross-sectional survey was done at Adama Hospital Medical College, Ethiopia, between November 24/2021 and December 24/2021 among 190 hypertensive patients. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.2.0.0 and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Result: The level of good knowledge, positive attitude, and good practice was 40.5%, 53.7%, and 47.4%, respectively. Government employed (AOR = 3.30, 95%CI: 1.38, 7.90), having an average monthly income of ≥3000 ETB (61.43 US dollars) (AOR = 2.95, 95%CI: 1.31, 6.66), and having a duration of ≥4 years since diagnosis of hypertension (AOR = 2.37, 95%CI: 1.11, 5.06) were factors significantly associated with good knowledge. Government employed (AOR = 2.56, 95%CI: 1.12, 5.87), having duration of hypertension ≥4 years since diagnosis (AOR = 2.16, 95%CI: 1.07, 4.36) were factors significantly associated with positive attitude. Government employed (AOR = 4.16, 95%CI: 1.38, 12.58), having an average monthly income of ≥3000 ETB (61.43 US dollars) (AOR = 6.74, 95%CI: 2.93, 15.52), having good knowledge towards prevention and early detection of CKD (AOR = 2.57, 95%CI: 1.14, 5.80) were significantly associated with good practice. Conclusions: The level of good knowledge, positive attitude, and good practice towards was low. Educational programs on these issues are required to minimize the burdens.

Professionalism and associated factors among nurses working in Hawassa city public hospital, Sidama, Ethiopia.

Background: The foundation of the global healthcare system is nurses, and professionalism in nursing is a basic idea that helps patients, organizations, and people. Studies that have been published in Ethiopia, though, are limited, out-of-date, and poorly documented, especially when it comes to the study setting. Because of this, this study aimed to close a knowledge gap on the level of professionalism in public hospitals in Sidama, Ethiopia. Objective: This study aimed to assess professionalism and associated factors among nurses working in Hawassa city public hospitals, Hawassa, Ethiopia. Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among nurses working in Hawassa city public hospital from June to July 2022. A computer-generated simple random sampling technique was used to select 413 study participants. The level of professionalism was assessed through a self-administered questionnaire, using the guidelines of the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario. All the loaded data using Epi-data version 4.6 were exported to a statistical package for social science. An ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to identify the associations between the outcome and predictor variables. The statistical significance of the factors influencing the outcome variable was declared in multivariate logistic regression analysis using an adjusted odds ratio at a 95% confidence interval with a p-value <0.05. Results: A total of 405 nurses participated in the study, with a response rate of 98%. Of the total participants, more than half were females (55.3%). The level of professionalism was found to a moderate level. There was a strong link between completing their degree in a governmental institution, being part of a professional organization, serving for several years, and having a BSc or above qualification with a moderate level of professionalism. Conclusion: We found a moderate level of professionalism among nurses working in the study setting. This suggests that the Regional Health Bureau should collaborate with other responsible bodies to develop various opportunities for nursing staff to increase their professionalism. The minister of health should be focused on private college nurses, nurses lacking the association, and the qualification of the profession.

A higher body mass index and increased syndesmophytes volume are associated with facet joints ankylosis on thoracic spine in patients with ankylosing spondylitis: a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between syndesmophytes and facet joint (FJ) lesions in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and to identify clinical factors associated with FJ ankylosis (FJA) in thoracic segment. METHODS: Ninety-seven patients with AS who underwent thoracic spine computed tomography (CT) or chest CT and without completely thoracic spine fusion were included. FJ lesions were analyzed for the numbers and distribution of normal, ankylosis, erosions, joint-space narrowing, osteophytes, and subchondral sclerosis. The volume of vertebral syndesmophtes unit (VSU) and total thoracic syndesmophtes volume were separately calculated by Mimics software. Clinical factors associated with FJA were investigated using generalized estimation equation (GEE). The association between syndesmophtes volume and numbers of FJ structural lesions was analyzed using generalized additive mixed model (GAMM). RESULTS: 2328 FJ and 1164 VSUs in thoracic spine were assessed. The majority FJ structural lesions were ankylosis (32.39%). FJA was more frequently seen in vertebrae with syndesmophytes formation (p < 0.001). GEE showed that patients with normal BMI (18.5-24.9 kg/m2) and high BMI (> 24.9 kg/m2) were more likely to have FJA in thoracic spine (odds rations [95% confidence interval]: 0.27(0.12-0.59), 1.45(1.03-8.57), respectively). GAMM showed that syndesmophytes volume increase the numbers of FJA (standard ß = 0.009, p < 0.05) and decreased the numbers of normal FJ (standard ß = -0.07, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: FJA was the most common FJ structural lesion in thoracic spine, and it increases linearly with syndesmophytes before the bridging syndesmophytes formed. A higher BMI (especially > 24.9 kg/m2) and increased syndesmophytes volume are associated with FJA in thoracic spine.

Level and factors associated with entry into motherhood among adolescents in a crisis context: Case of internally displaced adolescent girls in Kaya and Kongoussi communes, Burkina Faso.

This study aims to measure the level of entry into motherhood among internally displaced adolescent girls in Kaya and Kongoussi communes, Burkina Faso, and to analyze the factors associated with it. Data were collected from 404 adolescent girls aged 12-19 years in a cross-sectional survey conducted between July and August 2021. The proportion of internally displaced adolescent girls who had started childbearing was 26.5%. Age, marital status and current use of modern contraception were found to be significantly associated with entry into motherhood among internally displaced adolescent girls. Marital status mediates the effect of religion and employment on entry of the adolescents into motherhood. The results suggest that actions aimed at preventing early marriage and improving employment opportunities among adolescent girls could potentially prevent their early entry into motherhood.

Cette étude vise à mesurer le niveau de l'entrée en vie féconde chez les adolescentes déplacées internes dans les communes de Kaya et Kongoussi, Burkina Faso, et d'analyser les facteurs qui y sont associés. Les données étaient recueillies auprès de 404 adolescentes âgées de 12-19 ans dans une enquête transversale réalisée entre juillet et août 2021. Le niveau de l'entrée en vie féconde chez les adolescentes déplacées internes était de 26,5%. L'âge, le statut matrimonial et l'utilisation actuelle de la contraception moderne ont été trouvés être significativement associés à l'entrée en vie féconde chez les adolescentes déplacées internes. Nous avons montré que le statut matrimonial médiatise l'effet de la religion et de l'emploi sur l'entrée en vie féconde. De tels résultats suggèrent que les actions visant à prévenir le mariage précoce et à améliorer les possibilités d'emploi chez les adolescentes pourrait potentiellement prévenir leur entrée précoce en vie féconde.

Overview of the prevalence of loneliness and associated risk factors among older adults across six continents: A meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Globally, loneliness is a growing public health concern associated with poor mental and physical health among older adults. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to explore the prevalence of loneliness and associated risk factors among older adults across six continents. METHODS: Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and references lists were comprehensively searched until April 2024. Data analysis was performed using Logit Transformation model in R-Software for pooled prevalence and DerSimonian-Lard random-effects model in Comprehensive Meta-Analysis for associated factors of loneliness. Heterogeneity was quantified by I2 and τ2 statistics. The funnel plot and Egger's regression test assessed publication bias. RESULTS: A total of 70 studies with 462,083 older adults were included. The pooled prevalence of loneliness was 26 % (95 %CI, 23 %-30 %) with 38 % for North America, 34 % for Africa, 32 % for Asia and South America, 23 % for Europe, and 13 % for Oceania. Cognitive impairment (2.98; 95 %CI, 1.30-6.81), poor health (2.35; 95 %CI, 1.59-3.45), female (1.92; 95 %CI, 1.53-2.41), depression (1.74; 95 %CI, 1.40-2.16), widowed (1.67; 95 %CI, 1.13-2.48), single (1.51; 95 %CI, 1.06-2.17), institutionalization (2.95; 95 %CI, 1.48-5.88), rural residency (1.18; 95 %CI, 1.04-1.34) were associated with increased risk of loneliness. Being married (0.51; 95 %CI, 0.31-0.82), male (0.55; 95 %CI, 0.43-0.70), and non-institutionalization (0.34; 95 %CI, 0.17-0.68) were associated with lower risk of loneliness. CONCLUSION: Approximately, three among ten older adults aged ≥ 60 years are lonely worldwide. Early detection, prevention, and management of loneliness among older adults should consider diverse needs using gender-specific approaches.

State of the maternal healthcare continuum in Guinea, awaiting the next Demographic and Health Survey: the case of the five communes of Conakry in 2022.

Background: The continuum of maternal health care ensures consistency in the delivery of care from pregnancy to the postnatal period. It recommends a minimum of 4 antenatal visits, skilled birth attendance, and 42 days of postnatal care. This approach helps reduce maternal deaths. The aim of this study was to estimate the proportion of women who had completed the different stages of the continuum of maternal health care (four antenatal visits, given birth under the care of qualified personnel, and received postnatal care within 42 days of delivery). Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted in the five communes of Conakry, using a two-stage cluster sampling for data collection. Results were described using medians and percentages. The proportions of women in the continuum of care, and at the different stages of this continuum, have been weighted. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with non-completion of the different stages of the maternal health care continuum among the women included in this study. Results: We found that 26.9% of women had completed all stages of the maternal health care continuum, while 73.1% had not. While 56.7% received four antenatal visits, only 29.5% delivered under the care of a qualified healthcare professional. Key factors associated with discontinuity were not attending school (AOR 1.825: 1.594-2.089), unemployment (AOR 4.588: 3.983-5.285), having two or more living children (AOR 1.890: 1.016-1.296), and not receiving a free Long-Lasting Insecticidal Net at the first Antenatal Care. Conclusion: Maternal care discontinuity is a major issue in Guinea. The country's Health Development Plan had set an expected level for maternal care which has not been met as of 2022. The completeness of care is influenced by various factors, including individual socio-demographic characteristics and factors related to the organization, availability, and quality of health services. To reduce maternal and child mortality rates, it is essential to improve interpersonal communication during antenatal care, ensure the availability of quality health services, and conduct a national study on maternal health service quality and maternal satisfaction. This will help establish a proper continuum of care for mothers and children.

Video slot machine use in adolescence: the role of self-efficacy beliefs, current and expected personal fulfillment at the social and educational level.

Introduction: Video slot machines (VSMs), which are available on electronic gaming machines and online platforms, are widely recognized for their high potential to trigger harmful gambling behaviors. Yet, the psychological factors associated with VSM use among adolescents remain poorly investigated. Methods: We estimated adjusted odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) of current regular (at least monthly) VSM use according to self-efficacy beliefs regarding everyday problem-solving ability, along with current and expected personal fulfillment at the social, and educational level among 7,959 Italian high school students aged 15-17. Results: Current regular VSM use was reported by 108 students (1.4%). Notably, this behavior was more frequently reported by those with either particularly high or low self-ratings in problem-solving ability, current and expected social fulfillment, as well as by those with lower self-ratings in both current and expected educational/work fulfillment. Conclusions: These findings underscore that during adolescence, gambling behaviors are associated with diverse psychological profiles, each entailing distinct vulnerabilities. Effectively addressing adolescent gambling necessitates a comprehensive approach, with a strong emphasis on educational support. Given the increasing challenges in curbing underage exposure and access to the most harmful gambling formats, this study offers valuable insights for the design of health promotion and prevention strategies.

Factors Affecting the Perceived Social Support of Adolescent Girls and Women Aged 10-45 Years With Disabilities in Selected Sub-districts of Bangladesh.

Background Perceived social support is crucial for the well-being of women and adolescent girls with disabilities. In Bangladesh, social support can significantly influence their quality of life, yet it remains understudied. This study aims to identify the factors affecting perceived social support among women and adolescent girls with disabilities in selected sub-districts of Bangladesh. Methodology In this cross-sectional study, a total of 152 women and adolescent girls with disabilities participated. The study was conducted in Bogura Sadar and Chapainawabganj Sadar upazilas of Bangladesh. The implementation timeline of the study was from March to April 2023. The chi-square test and multiple linear regression analysis were conducted to explore the factors affecting perceived social support among the participants in the selected sub-districts of Bangladesh. Results In the chi-square test, associations were noted between menarche age, male education, and household income categories with perceived social support categories. In Fisher's exact test, an association was observed between females with partial hearing disability and perceived social support categories. The multiple linear regression analysis showed that better levels of education in men, high household income, and a younger age of menarche and partial hearing disability were the predictors of higher perceived social support among women and adolescent girls with disabilities. Conclusions This study underscores the multifaceted nature of perceived social support among women and adolescent girls with disabilities in Bangladesh. Interventions aimed at enhancing social support should consider identified predictors to provide tailored support for women and adolescent girls with disabilities. Enhanced social support can lead to overall well-being for this vulnerable population.

Household Water Treatment Practice and Associated Factors in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Introduction: Household water treatment practices, also known as point-of-use water management, offer means to enhance the overall drinking water quality and reduce the prevalence of diarrheal diseases. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of information on household water treatment practices and related factors in sub-Saharan Africa. Objective: This study aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of water treatment practices and associated factors in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: We conducted a search of eligible primary studies in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Hinari, as well as gray literature available in online repositories. The Stata v.17 software was utilized to extract and analyze the data obtained from these studies. To determine the overall pooled prevalence of water treatment practices and their predictors, a weighted inverse-variance random-effects model was employed. We assessed variations across the included studies using forest plots, funnel plots, I 2 statistics, and Egger's tests. Results: In this study, we reviewed a total of 927 articles, 28 of which were eligible for inclusion. The overall pooled prevalence of water treatment practices in sub-Saharan Africa was 36.31(95% CI: 27.64, 44.98). The factors associated with water treatment practices included having formal education (AOR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.70, 3.34), being male (AOR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.39, 2.29), having a higher income (AOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.39, 3.25), and having received training in water treatment (AOR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.59, 3.18). Conclusions: In this review, the pooled prevalence of water treatment practices in sub-Saharan Africa was found to be considerably low. Therefore, we recommend that household heads receive enhanced information on water treatment practices through strengthened health education and intensive training in small-scale water treatment practices.

Anxiety in Patients with Post-COVID Syndrome: Associated Factors.

Introduction: The term "post-COVID-19 syndrome" describes a range of symptoms persisting beyond the acute phase of the disease. These symptoms predominantly include fatigue, muscle pain, shortness of breath, and psychological issues. Research additionally suggests the possibility of long-term neurological and psychiatric impairment associated with COVID-19. Methodology: The study included patients who visited the post-COVID outpatient clinic between April 2020 and June 2022. The examination included the detailed history taking, including the COVID-19 course, posteroanterior chest X-ray and pulmonary function tests. Anxiety level was assessed using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). The relationship between anxiety, demographic data, and course of the disease, need for hospital admission during the acute phase, oxygen therapy, post-inflammatory changes on the chest X-ray and lung function parameters was investigated. Results: This study included 1756 patients who experienced COVID-19 and visited a post-COVID outpatient clinic. The majority of individuals experienced a mild form of the infection. The results showed that younger age and female gender were associated with significantly higher anxiety scores. Inpatients had lower BAI values than those who were not hospitalized during acute phase. Patients with post-inflammatory changes on chest X-ray had surprisingly lower BAI values. Lower values of FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in 1 second), DLCO (diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide), and KCO (carbon monoxide transfer coefficient) were associated with significantly higher BAI values. Female gender was associated with higher levels of anxiety. In contrast, higher FEV1 values reduced the risk of a pathological level of anxiety. Conclusion: In our study, the influence of age, gender, inpatient care during the acute phase of infection, the presence of post-inflammatory changes on the chest diagram and selected parameters of lung function (FEV1, DLCO, and KCO) were shown to be important factors in the assessment of anxiety symptoms in post-COVID patients.

Prevalence and associated factors of post-stroke depression in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Depressive disorder is considered the most frequent and burdensome mental health complication after stroke. Post-stroke depression is under-recognized in Africa and data remain scarce. These systematic reviews and meta-analyses were, therefore conducted to fill the gap. METHODS: An inclusive review of both published and unpublished articles was conducted. An initial search was conducted in PubMed, African Journal Online, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Google Scholar. Data were extracted using an Excel data format and the analysis was done using STATA version 14 statistical software. The heterogeneity of studies was determined using the Cochrane Q test statistic and I2 test statistics with forest plots. A random effects model was used to examine the pooled prevalence of post-stroke depression and subgroup analysis was conducted for those having significant heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias were also assessed. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Results were presented in narratives, tables and forest plots. RESULT: A total of 25 Articles with 3098 stroke patients from African countries were included to pool the prevalence of post-stroke depression in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of post-stroke depression in Africa at any time was 38.35% [95% CI, 34.07-42.63%]. The pooled estimate for post-stroke depression using clinical diagnostic tools was [38.53%, 95%CI: 34.07-42.63] and (36.81% [32.09-41.52%]) by rating scale. Subgroup analysis by region showed that Central Africa [50.92%, 95% CI: 45.94-55.90] had the highest pooled estimate of depression among stroke survivors with high heterogeneity (92.5%). Female gender, cognitive dysfunction and younger age were found associated in the primary studies but their pooled Odds ratio and overall effect were not significant in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate of the Odds ratio of physical disability in Africa was 2.02[95% CI, 1.04-3.94] with no heterogeneity but the overall effect was significant (p = 0.038). CONCLUSION: Post-stroke depression was relatively higher in Africa. Central Africa had the highest burden of post-stroke depression followed by West Africa. Physical disability was significantly associated with post-stroke depression in the current meta-analysis.

Postoperative delirium among elderly elective orthopedic patients in Addis Ababa Ethiopia: a multicentere longitudinal study.

BACKGROUND: Delirium is a neurocognitive disorder characterized by an acute and relatively rapid decline in cognition, disturbance of consciousness, reduced ability to focus, and shift of attention. It mainly affects elderly patients with an incidence of about 8-23% after an operation. It frequently occurs between 24-hrs and 5 days after surgery. It results in serious medical management problems. Hence, identifying the incidence and associated factors may help prevent and manage its sequel in the elderly. OBJECTIVE: Assessment of the incidence and associated factors of postoperative delirium(POD) among elderly elective orthopedic surgical patients in Addis Ababa public hospitals, Ethiopia, 2024. METHODS: A multi-centered longitudinal study was conducted on 220 elderly (age ≥ 65 years) patients in four selected public hospitals of the study area from February 2024 to May 2024, and a systematic sampling technique was used to select the study units. Data was collected through chart review and interviews of patients, and postoperative delirium was assessed using the confusion assessment method (CAM). Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used for statistical analysis. The strength of association was determined with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval(CI) at a p-value of < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 220 patients were studied, and the incidence of POD among elderly elective orthopedic surgical patients was 33.7%. Age 65-75(AOR = 0.47, 95%CI (0.226-0.97)), Induction using ketamine (AOR = 1.32, 95%CI(1.109-3.87), p = 0.003)), perioperative opioid use (AOR = 2.20, 95%CI(1.073 4.5313)), intraoperative anticholinergic use(AOR = 2.24,95%CI(1.831-4.235)), recent hospitalization history (AOR = 2.24,95%CI(1.202-4.206)), and transfusion (AOR = 2.83,95%CI(1.295-6.193)) were significantly associated with POD (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The incidence of POD in the study area was high (33.7%); advanced age, hospitalization history, Anesthesia induction by Ketamine, perioperative anticholinergic uses, opioid use, and blood transfusion use were associated factors for postoperative delirium. We recommend giving due attention to elderly patients with advanced age, history of hospitalization, perioperative Ketamie use, perioperative anticholinergic uses, opioid use, and blood transfusion use undergoing elderly elective orthopedic surgery.

Fear of childbirth and its associated factors among pregnant women in East Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Tokophobia is a mild to extreme fear of pregnancy and/or childbirth that may cause a woman to avoid giving birth. It is a common obstetrical problem that affects women's health. Some studies have found that fear of childbirth is common in East African countries. However, there was inconsistency across those studies, and no study was undertaken to report the pooled prevalence of fear of childbirth and its associated factors. As a result, the purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to identify the pooled prevalence of fear of childbirth and its associated factors in Eastern Africa. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on the prevalence and associated factors of childbirth fear using Pub Med, Hinari, Google Scholar, and East African University archives. Data were extracted using a data extraction format developed in Microsoft Excel, and the analysis was carried out with STATA 14 statistical software. Each article's quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tool for prevalence studies. The Cochrane Q statistics and I2 test were used to examine heterogeneity between studies. Subgroup analysis was done by country and sample size. To assess publication bias, a funnel plot, and Egger's regression test were used. RESULTS: This systematic review and meta-analysis included eleven studies. The pooled prevalence of the fear of childbirth among pregnant women in East Africa was 27.86 %. A history of labor and delivery complications (OR = 5.41, 95 %CI = 2.20, 8.63), poor social support (OR = 4.50, 95 %CI = 1.70, 11.92), primiparity (OR = 1.91, 95 %CI = 1.17, 3.12), no ANC follow-up (AOR=2.65, 95 %CI=1.48, 4.74), and unplanned pregnancy (AOR=4.88, 95 %CI=1.23, 19.31) were statistically associated with the fear of childbirth. CONCLUSION: The pooled prevalence of fear of childbirth was high. Previous labor and delivery complications, poor social support, primiparity, a lack of antenatal care follow-up, and unplanned pregnancy were all statistically associated with fear of childbirth. To address this, healthcare providers should focus on individualized psychological support for pregnant women who experience tokophobia. Furthermore, encouraging comprehensive antenatal care and strengthening social networks can reduce the fear of childbirth and promote maternal well-being.

Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinics at public hospitals in West Shoa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia.

Bacterial vaginosis is a polymicrobial syndrome characterized by the decrease of Lactobacilli and an overgrowth of facultative and anaerobic bacteria in vaginal fluid. Though it has received little attention, it has been associated with poor pregnancy outcomes, such as pre-term labor and delivery, premature rupture of membranes, low birth weight, spontaneous abortion, and postpartum infections. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinics from September 15 to December 14, 2021, at public hospitals in West Shoa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 260 pregnant women, and systematic random sampling was employed to recruit the study participants. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and the vaginal swab was collected using a sterile cotton swab. The gram staining result was interpreted using the Nugent scoring system. Data was entered into an Excel spreadsheet and exported to STATA-14 for analysis. Data were presented using tables and graphs. Binary and multivariable logistic regressions were performed. Variables with a P value ≤ 0.25 at the binary logistic regression were entered into the multivariable logistic regression. Finally, variables with a P value ≤ 0.05 were considered predictors of bacterial vaginosis and interpreted using adjusted Odds Ratios (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). A total of 260 pregnant women attending antenatal care were included in the study. The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis according to the Nugent scoring system was 22.3% (95% CI 17.4 to 27.9%). Pregnant women with other marital status were at reduced risk of bacterial vaginosis as compared with married pregnant women (AOR = 0.260, 95% CI 0.068 to 0.9995; P = 0.05). Rural residence (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.05 to 4.24; P = 0.036), use of one pant per week (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI 1.04 to 7.2; P = 0.041), and use of two or more pants per week (AOR = 4.96, 95% CI 1.49 to 16.57; P = 0.009) were significantly associated with bacterial vaginosis. In the current study, a high magnitude of bacterial vaginosis was reported. Residence, marital status, and number of pants used per week were found significantly associated among pregnant women. Hence, screening for the disease should be integrated into the recommended basic laboratory investigations during antenatal visits.

Prevalence of newly diagnosed hypertension and its associated factors in an opportunistic screening program in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a recognized risk factor that underlies the epidemic of cardiovascular diseases. Guidelines, including those from the European Society of Hypertension, recommend opportunistic screening for hypertension in all adults. However, there have been no institution-based studies on the prevalence of hypertension and its associated factors with an opportunistic screening program in Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of newly diagnosed hypertension and its associated factors in an opportunistic screening program in Ethiopia. METHODS: This was an institution-based cross-sectional study conducted on adult participants in an opportunistic hypertension screening program at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from November 1, 2023, to February 1, 2024. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, constructed as per the WHO STEPwise approach to non-communicable disease risk factor surveillance (STEPS). The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 26. Descriptive analysis was used to compile the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the participants, and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with hypertension. RESULTS: A total of 301 adult participants were included in this study. The mean age of the participants was 47.6 years (standard deviation: 13.5), and 62.5% were males. The prevalence of newly diagnosed hypertension was 36.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.6, 66.8). Male sex (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.06, 95% (CI): 1.05, 4.04), being married (AOR = 4.8, 95% CI: 1.84, 2.77) or widowed (AOR = 5.14, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.46), less frequent intake of vegetables and/or fruits [< 3 days per week (AOR = 2.88, 95% CI: 1.12, 7.39), and 3 to 5 days per week (AOR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.02, 4.86)], physical inactivity (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.21, 4.22), and body mass index (AOR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.26), had significant associations with hypertension. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated a high prevalence of newly diagnosed hypertension in an opportunistic screening program in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It also revealed that most of the factors significantly associated with hypertension were modifiable, underscoring the importance of promoting lifestyle changes. Most importantly, expanding institution-based opportunistic screening programs could be an effective approach to maximize the detection of hypertension and improve access to its treatment.

Health-related quality of life and associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS in Lagos, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND:  Although people living with HIV (PLWH) now have a longer life expectancy due to antiretroviral therapy, several factors impact their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Understanding the dimensions and determinants of HRQoL among PLWH is crucial to developing solutions to improve their overall wellbeing. AIM:  This research aimed to explore the HRQoL and its associated factors among PLWH in Lagos, Nigeria. SETTING:  Seven HIV testing and treatment centres in Lagos. METHODS:  A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 385 participants. Socio-demographic and HRQoL data were obtained using questionnaires and the Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey (MOS-HIV). Logistic regression models were used to identify variables that were associated with quality of life. RESULTS:  The physical health summary and mental health summary scores measured by the MOS-HIV were 54.2 ± 5.3 and 56.3 ± 6.7, respectively. Being married, having higher levels of education, shorter duration of HIV and higher income levels were significantly associated with better HRQoL. The duration of HIV was found to have an inversely proportional influence on the quality of life of PLWH, both in physical health (χ2 = 9.477, p = 0.009) and mental health (χ2 = 11.88, p = 0.004) dimensions. CONCLUSION:  The HRQoL of PLWH in Lagos, Nigeria was relatively low. Education, duration of HIV, marital status and income level are predictors of HRQoL.Contribution: This study is valuable for healthcare professionals and policymakers, providing them with essential information to tailor interventions and allocate resources effectively to improve the overall wellbeing of PLWH in Nigeria.