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Managing Hepatitis Outbreak in Biratnagar Nepal
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
808-814
Received:
26 September 2015
Accepted:
9 October 2015
Published:
22 October 2015
Abstract: This is a review article on jaundice outbreak occurred in Biratnagar during April-July 2014. The study reviewed the reports on hepatitis outbreak presented by District Public Health Officer Morang during a seminar organized by Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC), District Disaster Management Committee (DDMC) meetings and HMIS (Health Management Information System) database. District Public Health Office (DPHO) recorded 2,789 Jaundice patients in Morang district including Biratnagar city. Most of the patients (80.67%) recorded from Biratnagar. In the outbreak sex ratio of female to male was 0.56:1. Hepatitis infection was highest among 15-29 age groups and noticed remarkable among 15 to 54 years age groups. District Disaster Management Committee declared the outbreak in Biratnagar on April 28 when 95 jaundice patients recorded in the hospitals. The number reached at peak level 176 patients on May 6 and the trend came downward to normal level on July 8, 2014. Total 12 deaths recorded in the outbreak. Of them 8 deaths recorded from Biratnagar, 3 deaths from Morang district and 1 death from Saptari district. In Biratnagar ward No. 11 listed 5 deaths, ward No. 8 listed 2 deaths and ward No. 3 listed 1 death. Case fatality rate in the Biratnagar outbreak calculated as 0.43%. The causes of hepatitis infection were hepatitis viruses E and A. The transmission of infection in Biratnagar was due to sewage contamination through leaking pipes in water distribution. The level of community awareness on taking safe water observed in the Biratnagar. Before the outbreak, people used to drink tap water without treatment. After the outbreak, people changed their behavior to boil or filter water to drink in houses. Many people started to purchase mineral water in jars and bottles from the market. However, government water supply system in Biratnagar is poor which demands an upgrade to meet WHO standard of drinking water.
Abstract: This is a review article on jaundice outbreak occurred in Biratnagar during April-July 2014. The study reviewed the reports on hepatitis outbreak presented by District Public Health Officer Morang during a seminar organized by Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC), District Disaster Management Committee (DDMC) meetings and HMIS (Health Management In...
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Determinants of Correct and Consistent Condom Use Among Mizan Tepi, University Students
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
815-819
Received:
19 September 2015
Accepted:
4 October 2015
Published:
22 October 2015
Abstract: Introduction: In Ethiopia, HIV epidemic has been seen even in hard-to-reach and pastoralist communities. But the pattern and distribution of HIV greatly varies by various parameters like region, place of residence and sex. Even though it is a public health problem of all segment of the population, the epidemic among youth and economically active segment of the community is the fastest growing partly because of young people’s vulnerability and because of low use of preventive services like correct and consistent condom use. Objectives: Assessment of determinants of correct and consistent condom use among Mizan-Tepi University students, southern, Ethiopia, 2011. Methods: Institutional based cross-sectional study design triangulated with qualitative study design was conducted. Data was collected from 421 randomly selected regular students using pretested structured questionnaire through interview. Coded, entered, cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 16 Summary statistics of socio demographic variables were presented using frequency tables and graphs. A logistic regressions analysis method was employed. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to assess the association of dependent and independent variables. P-value less than 5% was taken into consideration to say there determinant factor. Results: A total of 421 students were participated in the study making the response rate 90.2%. Out of the total respondents 301 (71.5%) were males. The mean age of the study population was 17.3 with standard deviation of 2.41 years. The level of correct and consistent use of condom in the study is 43.3%. Age at first sexual intercourse, number of sexual partner and own risk perception was found to be associated with correct and consistent use of condom. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of correct and consistent condom use is 43.3%. Age at first sexual intercourse, number of sexual partner and own risk perceptions were found to be significant determinants of correct and consistent use of condom.
Abstract: Introduction: In Ethiopia, HIV epidemic has been seen even in hard-to-reach and pastoralist communities. But the pattern and distribution of HIV greatly varies by various parameters like region, place of residence and sex. Even though it is a public health problem of all segment of the population, the epidemic among youth and economically active se...
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Condom Using Perception Among Sex-Buying Men in India
Koustuv Dalal,
Jahan Shabnam,
Animesh Biswas
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
820-824
Received:
8 September 2015
Accepted:
10 October 2015
Published:
24 October 2015
Abstract: Aims: The study explores condom use among sex-buying men in India. The study also identifies the level of knowledge regarding the contraction of sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) and AIDS in relation to condom use. Methods: The observational study has designed in where purposively 156 Men were selected who reported that they paid for sex and used a condom during in the last 12 months. Respondents were from 29 Indian states during 2005-2006. Descriptive analysis was performed using SPSS Statistics version 20.0 for window for statistical analysis. Results: Majority of sex buyers were found in between 25-34 years age group, middle and higher income group were found more to buy sex than poor group. 77% of the participants used condoms every time they had paid sex with the female partner, majority of men had a good knowledge on AIDS ( 89%) and 78.8% has a believe that condom using can reduce risk of contaminated with HIV. Conclusion: Middle aged men in India with a high socio-economic status and educational background have a better perception, knowledge and attitude towards using condom during sex buying and have knowledge on HIV, however low poverty level men are vulnerable and they are expose to contamination with HIV AIDS.
Abstract: Aims: The study explores condom use among sex-buying men in India. The study also identifies the level of knowledge regarding the contraction of sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) and AIDS in relation to condom use. Methods: The observational study has designed in where purposively 156 Men were selected who reported that they paid for sex and us...
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The Epidemiological Features of Amputations at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia
Deliwe Mangowela,
Esther Munalula-Nkandu,
Kangwa M. Chileshe,
Hastings Shula,
Loveness A. Nkhata
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
825-829
Received:
14 September 2015
Accepted:
13 October 2015
Published:
28 October 2015
Abstract: Introduction: While major limb amputations are reported to be a major surgical procedure that is a preventable public health problem, they are associated with profound economic, social and psychological effects on the patient, family and the country at large. There is however, limited data on the epidemiological features of amputations in developing countries where the impact is huge due to poor prosthetic services and unaffordable costs where services are available. The aim of the study was to determine the epidemiological features of amputations done at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia. Methods: Data was collected using a checklist. The study was retrospective and descriptive in nature. Convenient sampling was used on records of patients who underwent major limb amputations between 2013 and 2014. Results: Out of 84 records that were reviewed, the commonest indication for amputation was trauma 29.8% (n=25), followed by Diabetic complications 21.4% (n=18) and the prevalent age group was 31-50 years 35.8% (n=30). Men were the most affected (70.2%; n=59) giving a ratio of 2.3:1. Lower limbs were more frequent 75% (n=63) than upper limbs 25% (n=21) ratio 3:1. Above knee amputation was the commonest procedure accounting for 45.2% (n=38) cases. Conclusion: Trauma and diabetes were the common indications for amputations at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia and mostly affected is the productive age group of 31-50 years. Given that both are non-communicable conditions we can conclude that the majority of the amputations could have been prevented with the behaviour change and adherence to traffic regulations by drivers, more road safety education for road users, health education, early presentation and intervention on patients plus appropriate management of the common indications.
Abstract: Introduction: While major limb amputations are reported to be a major surgical procedure that is a preventable public health problem, they are associated with profound economic, social and psychological effects on the patient, family and the country at large. There is however, limited data on the epidemiological features of amputations in developin...
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The Patterns of Dental Caries Influence on the Children’s Quality of Life Aged 3-5 Years Based on the Socioeconomic Characteristics
Taufan Bramantoro,
Yayi Suryo Prabandari,
Djauhar Ismail,
Udijanto Tedjosasongko
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
830-835
Received:
1 October 2015
Accepted:
13 October 2015
Published:
28 October 2015
Abstract: The objective of this research was to analyze the patterns of dental caries influence on the children’s quality of life aged 3-5 years based on the socioeconomic characteristics of their mother in Mojokerto Indonesia. This research can be considered as an observational analytic. This research was conducted in Puskesmas Wates Mojokerto and involved children aged 3-5 years as well as their mother. In total, this research involved 309 children and their mothers. Data obtained was related to the number of deciduous tooth caries cases and the assessment of children’s quality of life obtained from their mothers, that have been tested for their validity and reliability. In all of the groups of the socioeconomic characteristics, it is known that the number of dental caries cases found generally had considerable effects on the children’s quality of life. Next, based on the analysis of the influence followed with multigroup analysis aimed to know the significance of the difference between the coefficient values of each group of socioeconomic characteristics, it is also known that among those three groups there was a significant coefficient value in the socioeconomic characteristic group of children living at the same house with their mother. It can be concluded that in the group of mothers who have more than two children, dental caries has significantly greater effect on the children’s quality of life than that in the group of mothers who have fewer than or equal to two children.
Abstract: The objective of this research was to analyze the patterns of dental caries influence on the children’s quality of life aged 3-5 years based on the socioeconomic characteristics of their mother in Mojokerto Indonesia. This research can be considered as an observational analytic. This research was conducted in Puskesmas Wates Mojokerto and involved ...
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Current Status and Perception of Acne Among Chinese Adolescents: A Community-Based, Cross-Sectional Study
Jian Chun Hao,
Yan Yu,
Shao Wei Cheng,
Di Hui Lai,
Yu Fu
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
836-841
Received:
2 October 2015
Accepted:
15 October 2015
Published:
28 October 2015
Abstract: Background: Acne is a common disease in adolescents, which may result in physical and psychological damage. Objective: This study was carried out to assess the current status and perceptions of adolescents toward acne in Beijing, China. Methods: A total of 858 students aged 12–18 years were asked to complete a self- administered questionnaire to determine their perception of acne prevalence, treatment, and satisfaction of treatment. Results: The prevalence of acne in the sample was 54.7%. Adolescents obtained acne knowledge primarily from their parents (26.5%). 56.9% of adolescents were aware of acne; senior high school students were more aware of acne than junior high school students (p < 0.05). Only 35.2% of adolescents thought that they should go to the hospital for the treatment of acne; 16.8% actually did so, and 46.1% opted for no treatment. Junior high school students ignored treatment more often than did senior high school students (p < 0.05). Only 16.7% of students considered treatment to be effective. Conclusions: High acne prevalence existed in Chinese adolescents, but the number treated and efficacy of treatment were not satisfactory, which may be related to the poor perception of acne among this group.
Abstract: Background: Acne is a common disease in adolescents, which may result in physical and psychological damage. Objective: This study was carried out to assess the current status and perceptions of adolescents toward acne in Beijing, China. Methods: A total of 858 students aged 12–18 years were asked to complete a self- administered questionnaire to de...
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Assessment of Overweight and Obesity Prevalence Among Practicing Nurses and Midwives in the Hohoe Municipality of the Volta Region, Ghana
Charles Duodu,
Thomas Kwasi Awuni,
Prosper Attito,
Francis Bruno Zotor
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
842-851
Received:
21 September 2015
Accepted:
7 October 2015
Published:
3 November 2015
Abstract: Overweight and obesity describe an abnormal or excessive fat accumulation in the body that may impair health. They are associated with a greater risk of disability and premature death due to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as hypertension, stroke and coronary heart disease. Prevalence of overweight and obesity is increasing in various populations, and is becoming a huge problem among occupational or professional groups that are perceived as sedentary. The main objective of the study was to assess the prevalence and potential determinants of overweight and obesity among practicing nurses and midwives in the Hohoe Municipality of the Volta Region of Ghana. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed in this study, conducted from May to June 2015. One hundred and thirty five (n=135) eligible practicing nurses and midwives were selected using multi-stage sampling method based on probability proportionate to size (PPS). Anthropometric instruments were used to collect data such as weight, height, waist and hip circumferences; lifestyle and dietary habits; knowledge and perception of respondents on overweight and obesity were also collected. The data were entered and analysed statistically using SPSS, version 20. The ages of respondents ranged from 21 to 62 years with a mean age of 36.0 (SD 12.6) years old (χ2 = 10.4, P = .02). In terms of sex, 80.7% of respondents were females whereas 19.3% were males. Of all the respondents, 43.7% were married (χ2 = 2.9, P = .41), 96.3% were Christians (χ2 = 12.3, P < .001) and 77.8% were of the Ewe ethnic group (χ2 = 11.5, P =.04). The categories of the respondents were made up of 77.8% nurses and 22.2% midwives (Fisher’s exact = .001). Using the WHO criteria for Body Mass Index (BMI), the prevalence of overweight among respondents was 31.8% (6.7% males and 25.1% females) whereas 28.9% comprising only females were obese. Mean BMI of respondents was 27.2 (SD 5.5) kg/m2. Physical inactivity (Fisher’s exact =18.65, P < .001) and dietary habits such as eating late in the night (P < .010) were found in this study to be contributory factors to overweight and obesity. In total, 60.7% of respondents sampled were either overweight or obese. We suggest that health managers should pay special attention to nurses and midwives regarding prevention and control of overweight and obesity in order to curb serious implications on their health and productivity.
Abstract: Overweight and obesity describe an abnormal or excessive fat accumulation in the body that may impair health. They are associated with a greater risk of disability and premature death due to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as hypertension, stroke and coronary heart disease. Prevalence of overweight and obesity...
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Ethnic Pattern of Origin of Children with Spina Bifida Managed at the University Teaching Hospital and Beit Cure Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia 2001-2010
Margaret M. Mweshi,
Seyi Ladele Amosun,
Mary P. Shilalukey-Ngoma,
Esther Munalula-Nkandu
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
852-856
Received:
27 October 2015
Accepted:
4 November 2015
Published:
17 November 2015
Abstract: The incidence of spina bifida (SB) is known to differ among regions. Very little has been reported about the relationship between the incidence of SB and ethnic patterns of origin in Zambia except for the general impression that it is prevalent. The aim of the study was to establish the ethnic pattern of origin of children with SB in Zambia. It was a retrospective cross sectional study. Using a checklist, data was collected from clinical files of children with SB from the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) and Beit Cure Hospital (BCH) from 2001-2010. Descriptive statistical analysis was done in SPSS version 17. A total of 253 children with SB were identified of whom 88 (35%) of them originally came from the Southern Province of the country while the lowest province was the North-Western Province with 7 (3%). Further, a total of 77 (30%) children were referred from the Southern Province of the country and the lowest province that was represented was the North-Western Province with 5 (2%). Observed is the evidence that SB is very prevalent in the Southern Province of the country. With the presence of Uranium in the Southern Province of Zambia, a serious study ought to be done to investigate the possible link of the pollutant with the prevalence of SB in the region. It is essential that the government looks seriously at Uranium Mines being operated in the Province.
Abstract: The incidence of spina bifida (SB) is known to differ among regions. Very little has been reported about the relationship between the incidence of SB and ethnic patterns of origin in Zambia except for the general impression that it is prevalent. The aim of the study was to establish the ethnic pattern of origin of children with SB in Zambia. It was...
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Assessment of the Workplace Conditions and Health and Safety Situation in Chemical and Textile Industries of Pakistan
Najaf Shah,
Farhat Abbas,
Yawar Abbas,
Syed Ali Haider,
Qasim Khan,
Nosheen Asghar,
Sifat Noor,
Syed Naeem Abbas,
Nawazish Ali,
Attarad Ali
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
857-864
Received:
9 October 2015
Accepted:
4 November 2015
Published:
5 December 2015
Abstract: The study was conducted to assess the workplace conditions, health and safety situations in textile and chemical industries of one of the commercial cities of Pakistan i.e. Faisalabad. Risk assessment was conducted through qualitative and quantitative assessment methods. The effluents and gases emissions in the textile and chemical mills of Faisalabad were monitored. Results indicated the working conditions in the work place were not conducive for maximum productivity and there was high risk that may be befalling to the workers from multiple hazards exacerbated by inadequate physical conditions. Over all the temperature, humidity, noise and light levels were either below or above the defined NEQS (National Environmental Quality Standards) at multiple places in each industry. Workers are uninformed of the health and safety protocols at workplace and there is a dire need to give trainings and awareness regarding health and safety issues.
Abstract: The study was conducted to assess the workplace conditions, health and safety situations in textile and chemical industries of one of the commercial cities of Pakistan i.e. Faisalabad. Risk assessment was conducted through qualitative and quantitative assessment methods. The effluents and gases emissions in the textile and chemical mills of Faisala...
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Infection Prevention and Control Practices in Public Health Facilities Compared to the Confessional and Private Ones
Ndipowa James Attangeur Chimfutumba,
Yongabi Kenneth Anchang,
Dismas Ongore,
Nyabola Lambert
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
865-872
Received:
17 August 2015
Accepted:
22 November 2015
Published:
10 December 2015
Abstract: Infection prevention, control and health promotion have been a serious challenge to the public health sector in Cameroon in general and in the Bamenda health district in particular. This has led to an upsurge of many infectious diseases and epidemics in recent times. It has been aggravated by the advent of the Ebola hemorrhagic disease in neighboring countries and other existing epidemics such as Poliomyelitis, Cholera, Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and Measles. This survey compares the infection prevention, control and health promotion practices in public health facilities with those in the confessional and private health facilities. From the analyses, the number of males with sound practices doubled that of females, thus proving to be of statistical significance. Denominational or confessional health facilities equally recorded a high percentage of sound practice followed by private health facilities and then government-owned health facilities. There is also a significant relationship between “level of knowledge’’ and “infection prevention, control and health promotion practice’’ from this study.
Abstract: Infection prevention, control and health promotion have been a serious challenge to the public health sector in Cameroon in general and in the Bamenda health district in particular. This has led to an upsurge of many infectious diseases and epidemics in recent times. It has been aggravated by the advent of the Ebola hemorrhagic disease in neighbori...
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Perceived Self-efficacy in Alimentary Care and Physical Health in Mexican University Students, Comparisons by Gender
Jose R. Blanco,
Juan C. Barron,
Veronica Benavides,
Hector L. Medina
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
873-877
Received:
15 November 2015
Accepted:
24 November 2015
Published:
14 December 2015
Abstract: The objective of this research was to compare the profiles of perceived self-efficacy in alimentary care behaviors and physical health of men and women university students. The overall sample consisted of 1313 subjects; 710 women and 603 men students of the degrees offered at the Faculty of Physical Culture of the Autonomous University of Chihuahua, with an average age of 20.46 years (SD = 1.87). The approach adopted in the research was framed within a quantitative approach with a descriptive design survey type. The differences found between men and women regarding their perception of self-efficacy in the care of their diet and physical health, suggest that when designing any intervention that aims to improve perceived self-efficacy must be taken into account the gender variable. Future research should replicate these findings in larger samples.
Abstract: The objective of this research was to compare the profiles of perceived self-efficacy in alimentary care behaviors and physical health of men and women university students. The overall sample consisted of 1313 subjects; 710 women and 603 men students of the degrees offered at the Faculty of Physical Culture of the Autonomous University of Chihuahua...
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In Pursuit of the Virtuous Life: From the Perspective of the Traditional Chinese Medical Wisdom
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
878-882
Received:
24 November 2015
Accepted:
6 December 2015
Published:
30 December 2015
Abstract: To fundamentally cope with the health crisis of the modern people, we need to turn to the ancient medical wisdom for the wise guidance. Eventually, the great wisdom of health and happiness lies in the consistently virtuous life. Living the virtuous life means following the laws of nature naturally. The virtuous consciousness of one's existence and self is closely linked with the consciousness of one's health. In addition, we also need to find the ontological significance of the healthy body to the spiritual fitness. Finally, in order to make sure about the close connection between the virtuous life and the healthy life, we need to find back the ancient wisdom of the state or horizon of life, which essentially determines the health of a person.
Abstract: To fundamentally cope with the health crisis of the modern people, we need to turn to the ancient medical wisdom for the wise guidance. Eventually, the great wisdom of health and happiness lies in the consistently virtuous life. Living the virtuous life means following the laws of nature naturally. The virtuous consciousness of one's existence and ...
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Extent and Severity of Caries Among 12 year-old Students in an Endemic Fluorosis Area in Senegal
Daouda Cisse,
Massamba Diouf,
Cheikh M. Mbacké Lo,
Marthe Diouf,
Daouda Faye
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 6, November 2015
Pages:
883-887
Received:
11 December 2015
Accepted:
23 December 2015
Published:
4 January 2016
Abstract: The aim of this study was to measure the extent and severity of caries among 12 year-old students in an endemic fluorosis area of Senegal. This was a descriptive and cross sectional study covering 253 elementary school students aged 12 years and attending public, confessional and Franco-Arab schools in the city of Kaolack (Senegal). These students were in grades 4 or 5 and obtained parental permission to participate in the survey. They were selected through a cluster sampling; twenty two clusters were drawn at random. The socio-demographic information, the caries prevalence, the DMFteeth (DMFt) index and the degree of fluorosis were collected. The data was analysed using Epi info with a significance level of 5%. Girls constituted 54.2% of the sample; students in public schools were 46.8% and those in confessional schools were 31.23%. The prevalence of dental caries was 28.1%; the DMFt mean was 0.52 (sd 0.41), while 90.5% of the school population were affected by fluorosis. The prevalence of caries was significantly higher in the Franco-Arab schools than in confessional and public schools with a p-value = 0.0105. The caries prevalence and the mean DMFt remain relatively low in an area where 9/10 of the school population were affected by fluorosis. Prevention programs based on inequalities related to the types of schools are an efficient strategy to fight dental caries in the city of Kaolack.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to measure the extent and severity of caries among 12 year-old students in an endemic fluorosis area of Senegal. This was a descriptive and cross sectional study covering 253 elementary school students aged 12 years and attending public, confessional and Franco-Arab schools in the city of Kaolack (Senegal). These students ...
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