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Research Article
Digital Health Innovations on Healthcare Delivery in Cote d’Ivoire: Lessons Learned of Projects Implementation
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
1-10
Received:
27 November 2025
Accepted:
8 January 2026
Published:
29 January 2026
Abstract: Introduction: Healthcare system in Côte d'Ivoire suffers from a number of shortcomings in the delivery of health services, as in other developing countries. Digital health innovations have been an opportunity and a reality in recent years. This study aimed to understand the projects of digital health in the delivery of health services in Côte d'Ivoire. Methodology: The study was a narrative literature review in March to April 2025. The literature review was based on database (Google scholar and PubMed) and reports of digital health on Côte d'Ivoire. Results: The study analyzed three local and national projects like the National e-health project, Telemedicine project, and electronic vaccination record project. It highlighted the impact of the implementation of digital health in improving the healthcare delivery and the health of populations with reduction of the mortality and vaccination dropout rates, and amelioration of the prevention of vaccine-preventable diseases and the follow-up of the patients leaving in rural areas, and shared some barriers of this implementation. Conclusion: Digital health innovations have transformed healthcare delivery, particularly in Côte d'Ivoire. a best scalp up of pilot project and reinforce of infrastructures and human resource and interoperability would improve the impact of digital health in national health system.
Abstract: Introduction: Healthcare system in Côte d'Ivoire suffers from a number of shortcomings in the delivery of health services, as in other developing countries. Digital health innovations have been an opportunity and a reality in recent years. This study aimed to understand the projects of digital health in the delivery of health services in Côte d'Ivo...
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Research Article
Push or Pull Factors: Willingness of Medical Students to Work in Rural Areas
Gajendra Singh*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
11-18
Received:
18 December 2025
Accepted:
21 January 2026
Published:
9 February 2026
Abstract: Introduction: Healthcare service delivery in India is not possible without strengthening the primary healthcare system. Most of the Indian states struggle with the medical workforce especially doctors at Primary Health Centers (PHCs). Chhattisgarh being tribal state with mostly rural area is not an exception. It’s not easy to retain doctors at PHCs unless there is systematic investment in understanding their plans for career, preferences for medical specialization, desired location to serve and overall approach to work in rural and remote areas. This study attempts to explore the various factors during academic tenure which influence medical students to make decisions about working in rural areas through public health service. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in all the six government medical colleges in the state of Chhattisgarh. Data was collected from 1917 students admitted in last 5 years in all 6 Government Medical colleges. Study was conducted using a self-administered semi structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: Of 1,917 respondents, 50.9% were female. Overall, 38.1% expressed willingness to serve in rural areas. Gender, social category, residential background, and academic year significantly influenced willingness (p < 0.05). Students from tribal backgrounds (AOR=2.84; 95% CI: 2.10–3.84), rural upbringing (AOR=2.17; 95% CI: 1.58–2.99), and first/second-year students (AOR=1.92; 95% CI: 1.33–2.78) showed higher inclination. Motivational factors included better housing, incentives, and exposure to rural health facilities. Nearly 90.8% preferred post graduation immediately after MBBS, regardless of background. Conclusion: The Indian public sector has introduced a range of financial and non-financial incentives to encourage health workers, particularly allopathic doctors, to serve in rural areas. However, most existing strategies address isolated challenges or are implemented only after the completion of medical training. Our findings suggest the need to move away from this fragmented incentive model towards a comprehensive ‘package’ approach that creates a supportive and enabling environment during the MBBS period itself, thereby shaping career choices early on. Only through such an approach can government service and rural postings become genuinely attractive options for health professionals.
Abstract: Introduction: Healthcare service delivery in India is not possible without strengthening the primary healthcare system. Most of the Indian states struggle with the medical workforce especially doctors at Primary Health Centers (PHCs). Chhattisgarh being tribal state with mostly rural area is not an exception. It’s not easy to retain doctors at PHCs...
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Research Article
Epidemiological Assessment of Cosmetic Skin Bleaching Practices and Toxic Exposure Among Vulnerable Women in Zanzibar: Public Health Perspective
Ochieng O Anthony*,
Jeremie Minani
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
19-33
Received:
16 January 2026
Accepted:
27 January 2026
Published:
9 February 2026
Abstract: The widespread use of skin-bleaching cosmetics among women in Zanzibar poses a growing public health concern due to chronic exposure to toxic substances present in many products sold through informal markets and beauty salons. These cosmetics are suspected to contain hazardous compounds such as mercury, hydroquinone, and potent corticosteroids, which are associated with dermatological damage, endocrine disruption, nephrotoxicity, and adverse reproductive outcomes. This study assessed the epidemiology of skin-bleaching practices and evaluated associated health risks using integrated population-based data and laboratory analysis of cosmetic products. A cross-sectional study was conducted among women of reproductive age in selected urban and peri-urban areas of Zanzibar. Structured questionnaires collected data on cosmetic use patterns, duration and frequency of exposure, reproductive history, and self-reported health outcomes. Commonly used skin-lightening products were concurrently sampled from salons and retail outlets. Metallic content was quantified using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), while restricted organic compounds were identified through product label claims. Detected concentrations were compared with international cosmetic safety standards. Results indicated a high prevalence of regular skin bleaching, characterized by prolonged daily application and limited awareness of product composition and health risks. ICP-OES analysis detected mercury concentrations exceeding permissible limits in several products, while label claims confirmed the presence of hydroquinone and corticosteroids, substances prohibited or strictly restricted under regulatory standards. Epidemiological findings showed associations between long-term cosmetic use and dermatological disorders, menstrual irregularities, and symptoms suggestive of renal and hormonal dysfunction. Health professionals further raised concerns regarding potential prenatal exposure and adverse maternal and infant health outcomes. Interpreted within the Donabedian framework, these findings underscore systemic weaknesses in cosmetic regulation, product surveillance, and public health education. Strengthened regulatory enforcement, routine laboratory monitoring, and targeted public health interventions are urgently required to reduce toxic cosmetic exposure and protect women’s reproductive and maternal health in Zanzibar.
Abstract: The widespread use of skin-bleaching cosmetics among women in Zanzibar poses a growing public health concern due to chronic exposure to toxic substances present in many products sold through informal markets and beauty salons. These cosmetics are suspected to contain hazardous compounds such as mercury, hydroquinone, and potent corticosteroids, whi...
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Research Article
Contributor Factors Associate to Underutilization of Family Planning Services in Karisimbi Health Zone, Goma City’s, Democratic Republic of Congo
Bahati Desire,
Maombi Gashegu Felicien,
Mutubuki Herbert,
Bitwe Mihanda Richard,
Mashako Ruhanga Many*,
Mashako Katonda Yves,
Kanyange Kanyamihigo Sylvie,
Kajibwami Esperance
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
34-45
Received:
25 January 2026
Accepted:
3 February 2026
Published:
24 February 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.cajph.20261201.14
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Views:
Abstract: Introduction: Despite the progress made, access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in general, and in the DRC in particular, faces major obstacles, resulting in high rates of maternal mortality, unwanted pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The challenges currently being faced include the unavailability of reproductive health services, geographical inaccessibility, cultural and religious norms, stigmatization, and low levels of maternal education. Methodology: This observational cross-sectional study focuses on the knowledge, attitudes and practices of women of childbearing age (15 to 49 years) regarding family planning in the Mugunga health area, located in the Karisimbi health zone, city of Goma, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This research covers a short period of six months from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025. Data collection, entry and recording were carried out using the Open Data Kit Collect (KoBoToolbox) software, while the analysis was carried out on the statistics product and service solution (SPSS) software version 27.0. The Pearson Chi-Square (X2) statistical test was applied in this research. Results: Significant socio-demographic factors associated with low use of family planning services using modern contraceptive methods are single marital status (x² = 236.108), young age of study participants (x² = 155.83), low level of education of participants (x2 = 69.90), and low number of children at the time of the study (maximum of 2 children) (x2 = 161.69). Conclusion: adherence to modern family planning methods remains low in our study setting. Several socio-demographic, cultural and religious factors contribute to this low proportion. Promoting maternal and child health through community health workers would help improve adherence to modern family planning (FP).
Abstract: Introduction: Despite the progress made, access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in general, and in the DRC in particular, faces major obstacles, resulting in high rates of maternal mortality, unwanted pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The challenges currently being faced include the unavail...
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