Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with breast cancer being the most common (2.26 million new cases and 685,000 deaths). In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer ranked the first among females in 2014, accounting for...Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with breast cancer being the most common (2.26 million new cases and 685,000 deaths). In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer ranked the first among females in 2014, accounting for 15.9% of all cancers reported among Saudi nationals and 28.7% of all cancers reported among females of all ages. Early detection of breast cancer could decrease the risks, have a better prognosis, and have better outcomes/more successful treatments. Prevalence of breast cancer reached more than 25% of all diagnosed cancer in the kingdom among women. Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge and performance of women attending primary care centers about breast self-examination and mammogram screening for prevention and early detection of breast cancer in Abha city primary healthcare centers, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Research Method: cross sectional design was conducted by using questionnaire, which was distributed to primary care center nurses. The collected data was statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 25. Results: The study found that participants had poor awareness and knowledge about breast self-examination, risk factors for breast cancer, and trends and practices in early diagnosis of breast cancer. Conclusion and Recommendations: It recommends increasing awareness campaigns and providing educational programs to improve knowledge and practices.展开更多
Depressive disorder is a major contributor to years lived with disability (YLD) globally. It is estimated that 13% of all women experience the disorder in the first year postpartum. Postpartum depression (PPD) has sig...Depressive disorder is a major contributor to years lived with disability (YLD) globally. It is estimated that 13% of all women experience the disorder in the first year postpartum. Postpartum depression (PPD) has significant implications to the physical and mental wellbeing of both the mother and her baby. Only non-depressed pregnant women (score of ≤ 6 on Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) were recruited into this study. Data collection was done at 2 different stages;at recruitment stage (during the third trimester of pregnancy) and at the follow up stage (4<sup>th</sup> - 6<sup>th</sup> week postpartum). During the recruitment stage, intimate partner violence (IPV) and level of social support perception, among the women, were assessed using Hurt Insult Threaten Scream (HITS) and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) questionnaires respectively. While at the follow up stage, the Obstetric questionnaire and Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI-7) were used respectively to obtain obstetric-related data and to diagnose for occurrence of depression. The incidence of PPD was found to be 16.34%. Several factors such as level of education, husband’s socioeconomic status, stressful life events, low perception of social support, obstetric instrumentation and not having a baby of preferred gender were significantly associated with PPD. Positive predictors of PPD included not practicing breast feeding (OR = 186.72, 95% CI = 8.32 - 4188.35), family history of mental illness (OR = 4.95, 95% CI = 1.04 - 23.81) and pregnancy lasting beyond 40 weeks (OR = 7.26, 95% CI = 1.51 - 34.88). High incidence of PPD with numerous associated but largely modifiable risk factors call for more proactive measures, such as PPD screening among pregnant women.展开更多
Introduction: Mycoplasmas are bacteria commonly found in the commensal flora of humans and can occasionally be pathogenic. The population and the geographical area determine their susceptibility to various antibiotics...Introduction: Mycoplasmas are bacteria commonly found in the commensal flora of humans and can occasionally be pathogenic. The population and the geographical area determine their susceptibility to various antibiotics. Methodology: We carried out a cross-sectional study from January to June 2022 at the Douala General Hospital. All women who were sexually active and willing to participate were included. Endo-cervical swabbing was used to collect the samples. Culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed in a liquid medium using Mycoplasma-SystemPlus Gallery (Liofilchem). All samples that degraded urea (threshold > 10<sup>3</sup> for Ureaplasma urealyticum) and arginine (threshold > 10<sup>4</sup> for Mycoplasma hominis) were deemed positive. Results: A total of 107 women with a median age of 33 ± 8.3 years and a predominance of 30-40 years (41.1%) were included. The frequency of mycoplasma infection was 73.8% with 34.1%, 11.4% and 54.4% for Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma hominis and co-infection respectively. Resistance rates to Minocycline were low, 1.3% for Ureaplasma urealyticum and 3.7% for co-infection;for Pefloxacin the resistance rates were 3.7% (Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma hominis) and 22.8% (co-infection). Ureaplasma urealyticum had a resistance rate of 3.7% for Erythromycin, 1.3% for Clarithromycin and 5% for Azithromycin. There was no significant correlation between risk factors and infection. Vaginal cleansing and the development of resistance in mycoplasma infection were found to be significantly correlated (OR = 6.915 [1.52 - 31.55];(p = 0.013)). Conclusion: Minocycline was the most active antibiotic and Ureaplasma urealyticum was the species with the lowest rate of resistance. Antibiotic resistance was more common in co-infected people than mono-infected. Antibiotic resistance was independently correlated with vaginal douching.展开更多
Introduction: Pregnancy can be a risk factor for dental diseases as oral tissues are liable to changes due to hormonal variations. High levels of secretion of progesterone predispose gums tissues to inflammation leadi...Introduction: Pregnancy can be a risk factor for dental diseases as oral tissues are liable to changes due to hormonal variations. High levels of secretion of progesterone predispose gums tissues to inflammation leading to gingivitis. Also, oral pathologies in pregnant women can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. This may be because pro-inflammatory cytokines are released into the system of the pregnant woman, which can reach the womb, causing harm to the baby. Pathogenic bacteria can also get into circulation leading to septicemia. This can cause abortion, preterm delivery, low birth weight, pre-eclampsia and many others. There is a high prevalence of oral diseases in pregnant women in developing countries, but just a few of them actually access dental care services. This is more rampant in countries with no oral health programs and where oral health is not included in the antenatal care package. Lack of knowledge about the importance of oral health to pregnancy outcome, cost of dental treatment, as well as fear of the effect of dental treatment on pregnancy, are among the barriers to pregnant women not accessing dental care services during pregnancy. Objective: The main objective of the study was to assess the oral health status among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Bamenda. Methods: A cross-sectional community-based study was carried out on 295 pregnant women attending ANC in Nkwen, Mankon, and Bamendankwen, which have specialized dental units and so all these pregnan</sp.展开更多
Introduction: Nocturia has a multifactorial etiology, and its diagnostic approach involves, in addition to medical history and physical examination, the use of a bladder diary to define the pathophysiological mechanis...Introduction: Nocturia has a multifactorial etiology, and its diagnostic approach involves, in addition to medical history and physical examination, the use of a bladder diary to define the pathophysiological mechanisms present in each case. Methods: This study investigated the prevalence of nocturia, its mechanisms, and associated factors in women with lower urinary tract symptoms attending two urogynecology clinics in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Anamnesis, physical examination, and a 24-hour bladder diary were conducted. Two definitions of nocturia were considered: one or more nighttime voids and two or more nighttime voids. Mann-Whitney and Chi-square tests were used, with p-value ≤ 0.05 considered significant. Results: A total of 133 participants were included. The majority were aged 60 years or older (61.4%) and had three or more comorbidities (66.7%), with systemic arterial hypertension being the most prevalent (59.1%). Of the total participants, 54 (41.4%) completed the bladder diary. Among those with one or more nighttime voids (70.7%), the prevalence of nocturnal polyuria was 69.1%, reduced nocturnal bladder capacity was 17.3%, and global polyuria was 12.9%. Among participants with two or more nighttime voids (56.4%), the prevalences were respectively 68.2%, 19.1%, and 13.6%. Among the mechanisms, associations were found only with global polyuria, namely: use of insulin, body mass index and tobacco consumption. An association was also found between recurrent urinary tract infection and global polyuria in participants with two or more nighttime voids. Conclusions: The prevalence of nocturia was higher than that reported in general population studies and specialized services for lower urinary tract symptoms. Nocturnal polyuria was the most prevalent mechanism. Associations were observed between the use of insulin, body mass index, tobacco consumption, and recurrent urinary tract infection with global polyuria. No associations were found between any clinical or demographic variables and nocturnal polyuria or reduced nocturnal bladder capacity.展开更多
Background: Anaemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiency diseases observed globally and affects more than a quarter of the world’s population. Globally, 41.8% pregnant women and close to one third of non-...Background: Anaemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiency diseases observed globally and affects more than a quarter of the world’s population. Globally, 41.8% pregnant women and close to one third of non-pregnant women (30.2%) are anaemic. Anaemia during pregnancy contributes to 20% of all maternal deaths and it increases the risks of foetal, neonatal and overall infant mortality. In Kenya, according to the Ministry of Health, the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women is 55.1%. Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of anaemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic (ANC) at Pumwani Maternity Hospital (PMH). Methodology: A hospital based cross-sectional study design was conducted from 8<sup>th</sup> June to 18<sup>th</sup> August, 2015. Systematic random sampling method was used to select 258 pregnant women. Mothers who attended ANC during the study period and who met the inclusion criteria were interviewed and a capillary blood sample was taken. Hemoglobin level was determined by using HemoCue photometer. Data were cleaned, coded and fed into SPSS Version 20.0 for analysis. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to describe selected variables. Pearson’s chi-square test and odds ratio (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) computed to find association between independent and dependent variables. Multivariate analysis was done to determine factors significantly and independently predicting anaemia during pregnancy. Results: The present study revealed that the prevalence of anaemia among the pregnant women was 57%. Advanced maternal age (>31 years) (AOR = 2.71;95% CI = 1.25 - 5.88;P = 0.012) more than 18 - 24 years, government/private employed women (AOR = 2.94;95% CI = 1.47 - 5.88;P = 0.002) and self-employed women (AOR = 1.91;95% CI = 1.03 - 3.53;P = 0.039) compared to housewives, not taking iron/folic acid supplementation (IFAS) (AOR = 2.04; 95% CI = 1.14 - 3.64;P = 0.016) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) less than 23 cm (AOR = 2.52;95% CI = 1.36 - 4.67;P = 0.003) were found to be predictors of anaemia. Conclusion: Anaemia among pregnant women is found to be severe public health problem based on the World Health Organization classification of anaemia. Advanced age, employment, not taking IFAS during the current pregnancy and MUAC of less than 23 cm were significantly and independently associated with anaemia during pregnancy. Thus, special attention should be given to pregnant women who are employed and advanced in age. Moreover, they should be educated on the importance of taking iron and folic acid during pregnancy.展开更多
Objective: To determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis and to assess the possible risk factors associated with the infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care center at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Bah...Objective: To determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis and to assess the possible risk factors associated with the infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care center at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar town, northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional study was designed to determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women. Three hundred eighty four serum samples were collected from November 2013 to January 2014. Data on socio-demographic and predisposing factors were collected from each study participant with simple random sampling technique. The serum samples were examined for anti- Toxoplasma gondii(T. gondii) antibodies using latex agglutination test. Results: The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii among the pregnant women was 18.5%. All of T. gondii positive cases found to be positive only for Ig G antibody. Significant association was observed between seroprevalence and presence of domestic cats [AOR=2.85, 95% CI: 1.66-4.90, P=0.000], consumption of raw or undercooked meat [AOR=1.98, 95% CI: 1.15-2.43, P=0.014] and history of abortion [AOR=2.47, 95% CI: 1.40-4.34, P=0.002]. No significant association was observed between seroprevalence and socio-demographic characters, gestational age, gravidity, consumption of raw vegetable, and blood transfusion. Conclusions: The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Bahir Dar town was relatively high. Presence of domestic cats at home and consumption of raw or undercooked meat were identified as main risk factors for T. gondii infection. Therefore, health education towards avoiding eating raw or undercooked meat and avoiding contact with cats are recommended for prevention of miscarriage or defects during pregnancy.展开更多
Maternal mortality has been reported to be a challenge globally, with the highest maternal mortality in Africa. However, the first target for the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is to reduce the global matern...Maternal mortality has been reported to be a challenge globally, with the highest maternal mortality in Africa. However, the first target for the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. To achieve this goal, pregnant women’s knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) is a key. Therefore, this study set out to assess knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness among pregnant women attending antenatal classes. This pilot study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design using quantitative approach. Structured questionnaire was used to generate data from 46 respondents after obtaining ethical approval for the study. All data collected were adequate for data analysis. The mean age is 27.71 years with a standard deviation of 5.85, the average booking time was 4.69 months. Among the respondents who had given birth before, the average number of children was two children (1.8571). After categorizing the knowledge scores, 52.2% of the women have good knowledge of obstetric danger signs, 20 (43.5%) of the women have poor knowledge of BPCR and 32 (69.6%) of the respondents have good knowledge of skilled birth attendants. In conclusion, there is a need to formulate policies and strategies that will help to improve pregnant women’s knowledge of BPCR if the first target of the third SDG will be achieved.展开更多
There are a few investigations on malaria in pregnancy;however, examinations zeroing in on the discernment and current acts of malaria counteraction and treatment among pregnant women are scanty. This examination was ...There are a few investigations on malaria in pregnancy;however, examinations zeroing in on the discernment and current acts of malaria counteraction and treatment among pregnant women are scanty. This examination was pointed toward evaluating the information, recognitions about malaria anticipation with accentuation on information about placental malaria too consistence to utilization of LLIN and IPTP among pregnant women in Owerri, South Eastern Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at an emergency department, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri using a pretested questionnaire from 200 randomly selected consenting pregnant women. Acknowledgment of malaria manifestations during pregnancy, information about IPTP and placenta malaria were things used to survey the degree of information about malaria in pregnancy. Their blood tests were additionally diagnosed for malaria parasitaemia. Malaria prevalence in the examination populace by microscopy was 13.5%. Additionally 62% of the respondents were learned about the conceivable impeding impacts of the existences of malaria during pregnancy. About 79.5% of the respondent decidedly related mosquitoes to malaria contamination while 31% and 14% related reason for malaria disease to messy encompassing and stale water individually. Malaria Prevention Mentality and Practice in this examination was acceptable (60%) while 18.5% had reasonable practice. All the more so and 15.5% of the respondents had been associated with helpless practice. About 34% of the pregnant ladies rested under a mosquito net frequently study watched factual criticalness between age, occupation and malaria counteraction rehearses (p = 0.014, 0.0089). There was likewise measurably huge relationship between respondent’s training and respondent mentality (p = 0.0034). Information with respect to the utilization of Sulphodaxine primethamine (SP) as medication of decision during pregnancy was restricted (12.0%) as utilization of chloroquine was positioned most elevated (48%). The study showed low peripheral malaria prevalence and furthermore exhibited that pregnant women’s knowledge, mentality and practice towards malaria avoidance was impressively all things considered. Be that as it may, there was helpless information about discontinuous preventive treatment of malaria (IPTP) or suggested antimalarial during pregnancy.展开更多
Epidemiological monitoring of vaginal candidiasis infections associated with preterm delivery and death of the infant is highly desirable especially in pregnant women. The objectives were to determine the prevalence o...Epidemiological monitoring of vaginal candidiasis infections associated with preterm delivery and death of the infant is highly desirable especially in pregnant women. The objectives were to determine the prevalence of vaginal candidiasis and the occurrence of Candida species in pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of Thika District Hospital, Kenya. Vaginal swabs were collected from 104 pregnant women between the months of June and August 2010. The Candida species were identified by standard mycological and biochemical methods and the prevalence was determined by?, where: O is the number of individuals with the disease and P is the total number of individuals in the population involved in the study. Out of 104 samples obtained from the pregnant women with symptoms of vaginal candidiasis, 94 (90.38%) patients were tested positive and 10 (9.62%) were tested negative for vaginal candidiasis. The percentage distribution of vaginal candidiasis within age group was highest in the age brackets 26 - 35 years with 56(60%) patients and in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy with 64(68.09%) patients. The percentage occurrence of vaginal Candida species showed that Candida albicans was the most isolated species with 60(63.83%) isolates. The results indicated a high prevalence of vaginal candidiasis: 42.7%. The women at great risk were those between 26 - 35 years and in their 3rd trimester. Candida albicans was the most prevalent vaginal Candida species across all age groups and trimesters.展开更多
The high population growth rate has been associated with the increased level of poverty, morbidity, mortality, and decreased life expectancy. Modern contraception is an important factor in controlling fertility throug...The high population growth rate has been associated with the increased level of poverty, morbidity, mortality, and decreased life expectancy. Modern contraception is an important factor in controlling fertility through prevention of unintended and unwanted pregnancies. Contraception (birth control) prevents pregnancy by interfering with the normal process of ovulation, fertilization, and implantation. Contraceptive use is still very low in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where the levels of fertility and unmet need for family planning are high. The attitude of women toward contraception will usually affect the practice and utilization of contraceptives. The objective of this study is to assess the attitude, prevalence, and factors affecting contraceptive use among women attending Postnatal care in a tertiary health facility in Jos North L. G. A Plateau State, Nigeria. There was a descriptive cross-sectional study done between September to October 2019, with a sample size of 250 women. Respondents were determined using a multi-stage sampling method. Data collection was done using an interviewer-administered, pre-tested, structured questionnaire. The data was collected, entered, and analyzed using IBM Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Most women have a positive attitude 162 (64.8%) toward contraception while 88 (35.2%) had negative attitude toward contraception. Three quarters (75.2%) of women are willing to use contraception. The prevalence of contraceptive use among respondents was 35.6% while the prevalence of previous use of contraceptives among the respondents was 71.2%. Fifty (27.9%) used condom (barrier method), 40 (22.9%) used withdrawal method. Majority of the other respondents were spread across OCPs, injectables and implants. Major factors affecting the use of contraceptives were majorly attributed to informed choice with 60.1%, Partner’s decision (44.1%) and mild or no adverse reaction (12.8%). While major factors preventing use were lack of interest in 69.4%, partners’ decision in 14.9% and fear of side effects 12.5% of respondents. Respondents showed a wide acceptance of family planning services as majority of them see it as beneficial and are willing to go for another method after current pregnancy.展开更多
A study was carried out to determine the status of malaria in four (4) selected hospitals in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State. A total of 300 pregnant women attending antenatal were tested for malaria...A study was carried out to determine the status of malaria in four (4) selected hospitals in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State. A total of 300 pregnant women attending antenatal were tested for malaria parasite using rapid diagnostic test kits. Blood samples were obtained from finger by pricking and tested for malaria parasites. Structured questionnaires were administered to the pregnant women to obtain relevant information on the clinical and social aspects of malaria. A prevalence of 13.0% (39 women) was observed among pregnant women in Anyigba. Grimard Hospital and Egume General Hospital had the highest prevalence of 14.7% each;Maria Goretti Hospital had a prevalence of 13.3%, while KSUTH had the least prevalence of 9.3%. Age prevalence revealed that women with age < 20 years had the highest prevalence of 29.4% which was significant (p > 0.05) from the other age categories. Unemployed and women in their second trimester had the highest prevalence of 17.1% and 16.0% respectively. On the gravidity of the pregnant women, primigravidae (21.9%) was higher than multigravidae (10.6%) significantly (p < 0.05). Women from a polygamous family had a prevalence of 15.2% higher than those from monogamous family with a prevalence of 12.4%. The findings of this study revealed that malaria continues to exert significant public health and economic burden among pregnant women in parts of Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State. Continuous efforts at providing necessary information by relevant health organizations are needed to control and reduce incidence of malaria in this area.展开更多
Background: Contraceptive acceptance and utilization in society has been a huge challenge for communities in developing countries. There is a need to support the increase in the utilization of contraception and family...Background: Contraceptive acceptance and utilization in society has been a huge challenge for communities in developing countries. There is a need to support the increase in the utilization of contraception and family planning services. In all this, good knowledge and practice of contraception services will enable women to select the best methods. The study seeks to qualitatively assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of contraceptive use among women attending postnatal care in a health facility in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State in September 2019. This study utilized Focus Group Discussions among 36 women recruited using the purposive sampling technique. There were four (4) sessions involving nine (9) women per session. Findings: Of the 36 women, a majority (88.9%) had positive perception regarding contraception, all agreed that contraception and family planning is beneficial to families and communities. A majority felt that communities are yet to accept contraception. Most (83.3%) of the women had good knowledge of contraception. Three-quarters (77.8%) of the women have used contraception in the past, and about half (41.7%) are using it currently. Attitude towards adoption of contraceptives after current pregnancy was generally good. About half (52.7%) of the participants stated they required spousal approval before they adopt a method of contraception. Conclusion: There is a need for health agencies, development partners, and government to continue the health education, community sensitization, and support towards making contraception and family planning commodities available and accessible.展开更多
Background: Condoms offer protection against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission when used correctly and consistently. Many HIV infected people do not use condom regularly, thus leading to new HIV infectio...Background: Condoms offer protection against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission when used correctly and consistently. Many HIV infected people do not use condom regularly, thus leading to new HIV infections and reinfections. In Kenya, condom use is considered to be low and HIV prevalence is high among women aged 15 - 49 years where utilization of condoms among HIV positive women has not been studied. Objectives: The study aimed at determining the prevalence of consistent condom use among HIV positive women aged 18 - 49 years and to investigate the variables associated with it. Methods: A mixed method of study design (qualitative and quantitative approaches) was employed. A total of 422 participants were selected randomly and interviewed using a pretested structured questionnaire. Three (3) focus group discussions with 8 participants in each group were conducted. Chi-square test (p < 0.05) and odds ratio with corresponding 95% confidence interval were computed to establish the association between consistent condom use and independent variables. Binary logistic regression model was used to identify variables independently associated with consistent condom use. Qualitative data were transcribed and coded and then analysed thematically. Results: Consistent condom use among sexually active HIV positive women was found to be 57.4% (95%CI: 52.7% - 62.1%). The stepwise logistic regression revealed that attending tertiary education [aOR = 2.54;95%CI = 1.30 - 4.95;P = 0.006], disclosing HIV status [aOR = 2.27;95%CI = 1.27 - 4.06;P = 0.005], having an HIV negative partner [aOR = 4.23;95%CI = 1.99 - 8.98;P < 0.001], not taking alcohol [aOR = 1.72;95%CI = 1.10 - 2.69;P = 0.017], never encountered resistance to use condom by partners [aOR = 1.87;95%CI = 1.15 - 3.03;P = 0.011] and perceived risk of contracting STIs [aOR = 2.11;95%CI = 1.12 - 3.97;P = 0.021] as factors independently associated with consistent condom use. Conclusion: This study shows that there is still low prevalence of consistent condom use among HIV positive women. More education, campaigning and sensitization should be tailored among HIV positive women during counseling so as to avoid re-infection and transmission of infections.展开更多
<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Haema...<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Haematological profile of pregnant women provides vital information on physiological changes in pregnancy progress, outcome and possible maternal-foetal complications. The study assessed the haematological profile of pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methodology</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> The cross-sectional study was conducted at the antenatal clinic of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi between July and September 2018 among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic. Study participant w</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">as</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> recruited on voluntary basis and study questionnaire and informed consent administered. Blood samples </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">are </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">collected and analysed using System</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">x haematology autoanalyser.</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Result</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> A total of 191 study participants comprised</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> of</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> 141 pregnant women at different trimester stages and 50 non-pregnant. Mean haematocrit, haemgloblin, white blood count and platelet count of 35.8</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">±</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">9.0, 11.6</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">±</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">1.6, 7.7</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">±</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">5.7, and 234.0</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">±</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">74.6 respectively.</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Significant difference was observed between pregnant and non-pregnant women in neutrophil (0.016), mixed (eosinophil, basophil and monocyte, 0.05), lymphocyte (0.000), platelets (0.002) and RDWSD (0.025).</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Comparing haematological profile with trimester stages, significant association was observed with white blood cells count and mixed cell counts.</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: </span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">The</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">reduction in mean white blood cells count and increased haemocrit</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">concentration with the trimester stages contradict patterns in other</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">similar studies. This further highlights the need for local data for early diagnosis of pregnancy-associated clinical conditions and management approach.展开更多
Fungal infections have emerged as a worldwide health care problem in recent years, owing to the extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. We screened 104 pregnant women with symptoms of vaginal candidiasis in the a...Fungal infections have emerged as a worldwide health care problem in recent years, owing to the extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. We screened 104 pregnant women with symptoms of vaginal candidiasis in the antenatal clinic of Thika District Hospital, Kenya in order to identify vaginal Candida species and determine their susceptibility profile to commonly used antifungal drugs for treatment of the infection. The drugs tested were fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, clotrimazole and topical nystatin. Vaginal swabs were collected and subjected to mycological and biochemical tests for Candida species identification. Susceptibility profile of the identified vaginal Candida species to the antifungal drugs was carried out using broth micro-dilution minimum inhibiting concentration method based on the approved National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS, 2002) guidelines. Candida albicans was susceptible to most of the azoles drugs while the other species had varying responses. Candida krusei and Candida glabrata species isolated were resistant to fluconazole and ketoconazole. Candida albicans isolates had a high susceptibility to itraconazole (88.33%). Five percent (5%) of the isolates were susceptible in dose dependent (S-DD) with Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) of 0.25 - 0.5 μg/ml while 11.67% of C. albicans isolates were resistant (MICs ≥ 1 μg/ml). Itraconazole resistance was highest among C. glabrata isolates (50%) while 32.14% were S-DD (MICs 0.25 - 0.5 μg/ml). Only 17.85% of the C. glabrata isolates were susceptible (MICs of ≤ 0.125 μg/ml). All isolates of Candida isolates were susceptible to itraconazole and clotrimazole except C. krusei which was 100% resistant to clotrimazole. All Candida species isolates had low susceptibility to topical nystatin except Candida parapsilosis that was 100% susceptible. Data also showed an emerging resistance of Candida krusei to most of the drugs used except itraconazole. The results of this study support the continued use of these antifungal drugs for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis in the pregnant women except topical nystatin.展开更多
Introduction: Viral hepatitis B (HBV) in pregnancy is a risk for childhood transmission where the majority become chronically infected. In Uganda, HBV is not tested for during antenatal, therefore the number of infect...Introduction: Viral hepatitis B (HBV) in pregnancy is a risk for childhood transmission where the majority become chronically infected. In Uganda, HBV is not tested for during antenatal, therefore the number of infected, infectious, immune and none-immune pregnant women is unknown curtailing efforts to prevent mother to child transmission. Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study involving 254 pregnant women from four health centers in Mbarara Municipality. HBV status was assessed using an immunochromatographic (COMBO) kit, the type of infection;based on demonstration of anti hepB core IgM (acute infection) and total core IgG antibodies (chronic infection) and infectiousness;based on the presence of HBeAg and/or a quantitative HBV viral load ≥ 20,000 IU/mL. Immunity was determined using the COMBO kit and HBsAb quantification ELISA. One was deemed immune to HBV if HBsAb titers were ≥10 mIU/mL. Results: The prevalence of HBV infection was 1.2%;33% and 67% with acute and chronic HBV respectively. 33% were infectious based on a high viral load, none had detectable HBeAg. 14% were immune;amongst whom 72% had natural exposure and 18% after vaccination. There was insufficient immunity in 11% with a majority (75%) having acquired immunity following vaccination. Conclusion: The prevalence of HBV is low and most of those are chronically infected. HBeAg and Hepatitis B viral load should be performed when evaluating infectiousness. Further, there is a high transmission of HBV among adults and a low uptake of the HBV vaccine in Mbarara Municipality.展开更多
<strong>Background:</strong> Listeriosis affects immunosuppressed individual’s especially pregnant women. Maternal infections are usually mild for the woman, but may have devastating effects on the unborn...<strong>Background:</strong> Listeriosis affects immunosuppressed individual’s especially pregnant women. Maternal infections are usually mild for the woman, but may have devastating effects on the unborn child, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm labour and serious neonatal illness. WHO recommends that pregnant women should be educated to avoid foods with high risk of contamination. This study seeks to evaluate knowledge and practices predisposing to listeria infections during pregnancy. <strong>Methodology:</strong> This is a cross-sectional study on pregnant women, attending the antenatal clinic of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) using semi structured questionnaires. The knowledge score of participants was collated and analyzed using SPSS version 26. <strong>Results:</strong> The mean age of the participants was 32.07 ± 5.6 years. Forty-three (30.7%) women have had previous miscarriages with the mean no of miscarriage of 1.54. Out of 147 participants, only 20 (13.6%) admitted having heard of listeriosis while 127 (86.4%) had never heard of listeriosis and none of the participants has ever been tested for listeriosis. The Overall knowledge score was poor, and this was irrespective of age and duration of pregnancy. However, women with graduate and/or postgraduate degrees were more likely to have heard of Listeriosis (X2 = 10.88, P = 0.028). <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Our study shows a low level of knowledge about this food-borne illness, which can lead to severe illnesses in pregnant women and their unborn child. It is necessarily to educate pregnant women on the risk of listeriosis. This would be a key factor in creating and implementing accurate measures of prevention and control.展开更多
Background: Undernutrition during pregnancy in the developing countries is a major public health problem due to its strong association with maternal and child morbidity and mortality. The available data on the extent ...Background: Undernutrition during pregnancy in the developing countries is a major public health problem due to its strong association with maternal and child morbidity and mortality. The available data on the extent and determinants of under-nutrition among pregnant women in Kenya is scant. This main objective of the study is to establish the extent and determinants of undernutrition in pregnant women attending a public hospital in Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 162 randomly selected pregnant women who attended antenatal clinic at Pumwani Maternity Hospital, a well-known public health facility in Nairobi. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Nutritional status of the pregnant mothers was determined using mid-upper arm circumference measurement. Hemoglobin level was extracted from the maternal antenatal card to determine their anemic status. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done using SPSS Software (version 22.0). Frequencies and proportions were generated for categorical variables. While mean and standard deviation were computed for continuous variables. The chi-square test of independence was employed to establish the relationship between the independent variables and dependent variable. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the variables independently linked to maternal undernutrition. Results: The overall prevalence of undernutrition and anemia among the pregnant women was 27% and 39.7%, respectively. Multivariable logistic analysis showed that being single [AOR = 4.27;95% CI = 2.21 - 8.32, P = 0.001], divorced/separated [AOR = 2.25;95% CI = 1.13 - 4.87;P = 0.021], self-employed [AOR = 4.27;95% CI = 2.21 - 8.32;P = 0.022], illiterate [AOR = 4.31;95% CI = 2.55 - 8.20;P = 0.007), having short birth interval (<24 months) [AOR = 2.54;95% CI = 1.43 - 5.53;P = 0.042] and being anemic [AOR = 2.7;95% CI = 1.66 - 4.97;P = 0.037] were the variables significantly and independently associated with undernutrition among the pregnant women. Conclusions: Our findings show that the burden of undernutrition during pregnancy is still high in Kenya which requires urgent attention. Pregnant women who were never married, divorced/separated, self-employed, illiterate, and those with short birth interval were at increased risk of undernutrition. Nutrition intervention targeting social determinants of maternal undernutrition may result in positive outcomes. This will significantly help achieve the SDGs by reducing maternal child mortality.展开更多
Background: The Nnewly reported cases ofcongenital syphilis have been increaseding substantiallyover the past few years. To control the epidemic, a mu-nicipal program aimed at preventing mother-to-childtransmission of...Background: The Nnewly reported cases ofcongenital syphilis have been increaseding substantiallyover the past few years. To control the epidemic, a mu-nicipal program aimed at preventing mother-to-childtransmission of syphilis was introduced in July, 2001,which was designed aimed to screen all pregnant womenfor syphilis at their first visit to antenatal clinics or atadmission to hospitals in Shenzhen.Objectives: The aim of the study is tTo determine theprevalence of syphilis among women attending antenatalclinics and other medical institutions in Shenzhen andidentifies its patterns of infection. Methods: Upon giving informed consent, w Women whoattended antenatal care centers in Shenzhen from Janu-ary to December 2003 were included in this study subjectto obtaining informed consent. A blood sample was har-vested for syphilis screened for syphilising by using rapidplasma reagent test (RPR) and confirmed by TPHA forthose who were RPR positive. The women with pregnantsyphilispositive serology were systematically interviewedto obtain . During the interview, their demographicdetailsinformation,patterns of risk behaviors andother data. Data were collected andwere analyzedretrospectively.Results: Among Of 118,235 pregnant women surveyed,555 pregnant women were confirmed to have syphilis(prevalence of 4.69%), with a incidence of 4.69‰。 123women were excluded from the analysis because of in-complete medical records. Of 432 infected subjects withcomplete medical records, the average age was 26.8, witha range of 19 to 41. 7.41% (32/432) of them suffered fromprimary syphilis, 3.24% (14 /432) were ofhad secondary syphilis, and 89.35% (386/432) had latent syphilis. with-out any conspicuous clinical signs and symptoms.Conclusions: The prevalence of syphilis among the preg-nant women in our series was high and most of them wereasymptomatic. Screening for syphilis among pregnantwomen in Shenzhen is of importantce for the preventionof mother-to-child transmission of syphilis.展开更多
文摘Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with breast cancer being the most common (2.26 million new cases and 685,000 deaths). In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer ranked the first among females in 2014, accounting for 15.9% of all cancers reported among Saudi nationals and 28.7% of all cancers reported among females of all ages. Early detection of breast cancer could decrease the risks, have a better prognosis, and have better outcomes/more successful treatments. Prevalence of breast cancer reached more than 25% of all diagnosed cancer in the kingdom among women. Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge and performance of women attending primary care centers about breast self-examination and mammogram screening for prevention and early detection of breast cancer in Abha city primary healthcare centers, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Research Method: cross sectional design was conducted by using questionnaire, which was distributed to primary care center nurses. The collected data was statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 25. Results: The study found that participants had poor awareness and knowledge about breast self-examination, risk factors for breast cancer, and trends and practices in early diagnosis of breast cancer. Conclusion and Recommendations: It recommends increasing awareness campaigns and providing educational programs to improve knowledge and practices.
文摘Depressive disorder is a major contributor to years lived with disability (YLD) globally. It is estimated that 13% of all women experience the disorder in the first year postpartum. Postpartum depression (PPD) has significant implications to the physical and mental wellbeing of both the mother and her baby. Only non-depressed pregnant women (score of ≤ 6 on Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) were recruited into this study. Data collection was done at 2 different stages;at recruitment stage (during the third trimester of pregnancy) and at the follow up stage (4<sup>th</sup> - 6<sup>th</sup> week postpartum). During the recruitment stage, intimate partner violence (IPV) and level of social support perception, among the women, were assessed using Hurt Insult Threaten Scream (HITS) and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) questionnaires respectively. While at the follow up stage, the Obstetric questionnaire and Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI-7) were used respectively to obtain obstetric-related data and to diagnose for occurrence of depression. The incidence of PPD was found to be 16.34%. Several factors such as level of education, husband’s socioeconomic status, stressful life events, low perception of social support, obstetric instrumentation and not having a baby of preferred gender were significantly associated with PPD. Positive predictors of PPD included not practicing breast feeding (OR = 186.72, 95% CI = 8.32 - 4188.35), family history of mental illness (OR = 4.95, 95% CI = 1.04 - 23.81) and pregnancy lasting beyond 40 weeks (OR = 7.26, 95% CI = 1.51 - 34.88). High incidence of PPD with numerous associated but largely modifiable risk factors call for more proactive measures, such as PPD screening among pregnant women.
文摘Introduction: Mycoplasmas are bacteria commonly found in the commensal flora of humans and can occasionally be pathogenic. The population and the geographical area determine their susceptibility to various antibiotics. Methodology: We carried out a cross-sectional study from January to June 2022 at the Douala General Hospital. All women who were sexually active and willing to participate were included. Endo-cervical swabbing was used to collect the samples. Culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed in a liquid medium using Mycoplasma-SystemPlus Gallery (Liofilchem). All samples that degraded urea (threshold > 10<sup>3</sup> for Ureaplasma urealyticum) and arginine (threshold > 10<sup>4</sup> for Mycoplasma hominis) were deemed positive. Results: A total of 107 women with a median age of 33 ± 8.3 years and a predominance of 30-40 years (41.1%) were included. The frequency of mycoplasma infection was 73.8% with 34.1%, 11.4% and 54.4% for Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma hominis and co-infection respectively. Resistance rates to Minocycline were low, 1.3% for Ureaplasma urealyticum and 3.7% for co-infection;for Pefloxacin the resistance rates were 3.7% (Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma hominis) and 22.8% (co-infection). Ureaplasma urealyticum had a resistance rate of 3.7% for Erythromycin, 1.3% for Clarithromycin and 5% for Azithromycin. There was no significant correlation between risk factors and infection. Vaginal cleansing and the development of resistance in mycoplasma infection were found to be significantly correlated (OR = 6.915 [1.52 - 31.55];(p = 0.013)). Conclusion: Minocycline was the most active antibiotic and Ureaplasma urealyticum was the species with the lowest rate of resistance. Antibiotic resistance was more common in co-infected people than mono-infected. Antibiotic resistance was independently correlated with vaginal douching.
文摘Introduction: Pregnancy can be a risk factor for dental diseases as oral tissues are liable to changes due to hormonal variations. High levels of secretion of progesterone predispose gums tissues to inflammation leading to gingivitis. Also, oral pathologies in pregnant women can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. This may be because pro-inflammatory cytokines are released into the system of the pregnant woman, which can reach the womb, causing harm to the baby. Pathogenic bacteria can also get into circulation leading to septicemia. This can cause abortion, preterm delivery, low birth weight, pre-eclampsia and many others. There is a high prevalence of oral diseases in pregnant women in developing countries, but just a few of them actually access dental care services. This is more rampant in countries with no oral health programs and where oral health is not included in the antenatal care package. Lack of knowledge about the importance of oral health to pregnancy outcome, cost of dental treatment, as well as fear of the effect of dental treatment on pregnancy, are among the barriers to pregnant women not accessing dental care services during pregnancy. Objective: The main objective of the study was to assess the oral health status among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Bamenda. Methods: A cross-sectional community-based study was carried out on 295 pregnant women attending ANC in Nkwen, Mankon, and Bamendankwen, which have specialized dental units and so all these pregnan</sp.
文摘Introduction: Nocturia has a multifactorial etiology, and its diagnostic approach involves, in addition to medical history and physical examination, the use of a bladder diary to define the pathophysiological mechanisms present in each case. Methods: This study investigated the prevalence of nocturia, its mechanisms, and associated factors in women with lower urinary tract symptoms attending two urogynecology clinics in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Anamnesis, physical examination, and a 24-hour bladder diary were conducted. Two definitions of nocturia were considered: one or more nighttime voids and two or more nighttime voids. Mann-Whitney and Chi-square tests were used, with p-value ≤ 0.05 considered significant. Results: A total of 133 participants were included. The majority were aged 60 years or older (61.4%) and had three or more comorbidities (66.7%), with systemic arterial hypertension being the most prevalent (59.1%). Of the total participants, 54 (41.4%) completed the bladder diary. Among those with one or more nighttime voids (70.7%), the prevalence of nocturnal polyuria was 69.1%, reduced nocturnal bladder capacity was 17.3%, and global polyuria was 12.9%. Among participants with two or more nighttime voids (56.4%), the prevalences were respectively 68.2%, 19.1%, and 13.6%. Among the mechanisms, associations were found only with global polyuria, namely: use of insulin, body mass index and tobacco consumption. An association was also found between recurrent urinary tract infection and global polyuria in participants with two or more nighttime voids. Conclusions: The prevalence of nocturia was higher than that reported in general population studies and specialized services for lower urinary tract symptoms. Nocturnal polyuria was the most prevalent mechanism. Associations were observed between the use of insulin, body mass index, tobacco consumption, and recurrent urinary tract infection with global polyuria. No associations were found between any clinical or demographic variables and nocturnal polyuria or reduced nocturnal bladder capacity.
文摘Background: Anaemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiency diseases observed globally and affects more than a quarter of the world’s population. Globally, 41.8% pregnant women and close to one third of non-pregnant women (30.2%) are anaemic. Anaemia during pregnancy contributes to 20% of all maternal deaths and it increases the risks of foetal, neonatal and overall infant mortality. In Kenya, according to the Ministry of Health, the prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women is 55.1%. Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of anaemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic (ANC) at Pumwani Maternity Hospital (PMH). Methodology: A hospital based cross-sectional study design was conducted from 8<sup>th</sup> June to 18<sup>th</sup> August, 2015. Systematic random sampling method was used to select 258 pregnant women. Mothers who attended ANC during the study period and who met the inclusion criteria were interviewed and a capillary blood sample was taken. Hemoglobin level was determined by using HemoCue photometer. Data were cleaned, coded and fed into SPSS Version 20.0 for analysis. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to describe selected variables. Pearson’s chi-square test and odds ratio (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) computed to find association between independent and dependent variables. Multivariate analysis was done to determine factors significantly and independently predicting anaemia during pregnancy. Results: The present study revealed that the prevalence of anaemia among the pregnant women was 57%. Advanced maternal age (>31 years) (AOR = 2.71;95% CI = 1.25 - 5.88;P = 0.012) more than 18 - 24 years, government/private employed women (AOR = 2.94;95% CI = 1.47 - 5.88;P = 0.002) and self-employed women (AOR = 1.91;95% CI = 1.03 - 3.53;P = 0.039) compared to housewives, not taking iron/folic acid supplementation (IFAS) (AOR = 2.04; 95% CI = 1.14 - 3.64;P = 0.016) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) less than 23 cm (AOR = 2.52;95% CI = 1.36 - 4.67;P = 0.003) were found to be predictors of anaemia. Conclusion: Anaemia among pregnant women is found to be severe public health problem based on the World Health Organization classification of anaemia. Advanced age, employment, not taking IFAS during the current pregnancy and MUAC of less than 23 cm were significantly and independently associated with anaemia during pregnancy. Thus, special attention should be given to pregnant women who are employed and advanced in age. Moreover, they should be educated on the importance of taking iron and folic acid during pregnancy.
文摘Objective: To determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis and to assess the possible risk factors associated with the infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care center at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar town, northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional study was designed to determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women. Three hundred eighty four serum samples were collected from November 2013 to January 2014. Data on socio-demographic and predisposing factors were collected from each study participant with simple random sampling technique. The serum samples were examined for anti- Toxoplasma gondii(T. gondii) antibodies using latex agglutination test. Results: The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii among the pregnant women was 18.5%. All of T. gondii positive cases found to be positive only for Ig G antibody. Significant association was observed between seroprevalence and presence of domestic cats [AOR=2.85, 95% CI: 1.66-4.90, P=0.000], consumption of raw or undercooked meat [AOR=1.98, 95% CI: 1.15-2.43, P=0.014] and history of abortion [AOR=2.47, 95% CI: 1.40-4.34, P=0.002]. No significant association was observed between seroprevalence and socio-demographic characters, gestational age, gravidity, consumption of raw vegetable, and blood transfusion. Conclusions: The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Bahir Dar town was relatively high. Presence of domestic cats at home and consumption of raw or undercooked meat were identified as main risk factors for T. gondii infection. Therefore, health education towards avoiding eating raw or undercooked meat and avoiding contact with cats are recommended for prevention of miscarriage or defects during pregnancy.
文摘Maternal mortality has been reported to be a challenge globally, with the highest maternal mortality in Africa. However, the first target for the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. To achieve this goal, pregnant women’s knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) is a key. Therefore, this study set out to assess knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness among pregnant women attending antenatal classes. This pilot study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design using quantitative approach. Structured questionnaire was used to generate data from 46 respondents after obtaining ethical approval for the study. All data collected were adequate for data analysis. The mean age is 27.71 years with a standard deviation of 5.85, the average booking time was 4.69 months. Among the respondents who had given birth before, the average number of children was two children (1.8571). After categorizing the knowledge scores, 52.2% of the women have good knowledge of obstetric danger signs, 20 (43.5%) of the women have poor knowledge of BPCR and 32 (69.6%) of the respondents have good knowledge of skilled birth attendants. In conclusion, there is a need to formulate policies and strategies that will help to improve pregnant women’s knowledge of BPCR if the first target of the third SDG will be achieved.
文摘There are a few investigations on malaria in pregnancy;however, examinations zeroing in on the discernment and current acts of malaria counteraction and treatment among pregnant women are scanty. This examination was pointed toward evaluating the information, recognitions about malaria anticipation with accentuation on information about placental malaria too consistence to utilization of LLIN and IPTP among pregnant women in Owerri, South Eastern Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at an emergency department, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri using a pretested questionnaire from 200 randomly selected consenting pregnant women. Acknowledgment of malaria manifestations during pregnancy, information about IPTP and placenta malaria were things used to survey the degree of information about malaria in pregnancy. Their blood tests were additionally diagnosed for malaria parasitaemia. Malaria prevalence in the examination populace by microscopy was 13.5%. Additionally 62% of the respondents were learned about the conceivable impeding impacts of the existences of malaria during pregnancy. About 79.5% of the respondent decidedly related mosquitoes to malaria contamination while 31% and 14% related reason for malaria disease to messy encompassing and stale water individually. Malaria Prevention Mentality and Practice in this examination was acceptable (60%) while 18.5% had reasonable practice. All the more so and 15.5% of the respondents had been associated with helpless practice. About 34% of the pregnant ladies rested under a mosquito net frequently study watched factual criticalness between age, occupation and malaria counteraction rehearses (p = 0.014, 0.0089). There was likewise measurably huge relationship between respondent’s training and respondent mentality (p = 0.0034). Information with respect to the utilization of Sulphodaxine primethamine (SP) as medication of decision during pregnancy was restricted (12.0%) as utilization of chloroquine was positioned most elevated (48%). The study showed low peripheral malaria prevalence and furthermore exhibited that pregnant women’s knowledge, mentality and practice towards malaria avoidance was impressively all things considered. Be that as it may, there was helpless information about discontinuous preventive treatment of malaria (IPTP) or suggested antimalarial during pregnancy.
文摘Epidemiological monitoring of vaginal candidiasis infections associated with preterm delivery and death of the infant is highly desirable especially in pregnant women. The objectives were to determine the prevalence of vaginal candidiasis and the occurrence of Candida species in pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of Thika District Hospital, Kenya. Vaginal swabs were collected from 104 pregnant women between the months of June and August 2010. The Candida species were identified by standard mycological and biochemical methods and the prevalence was determined by?, where: O is the number of individuals with the disease and P is the total number of individuals in the population involved in the study. Out of 104 samples obtained from the pregnant women with symptoms of vaginal candidiasis, 94 (90.38%) patients were tested positive and 10 (9.62%) were tested negative for vaginal candidiasis. The percentage distribution of vaginal candidiasis within age group was highest in the age brackets 26 - 35 years with 56(60%) patients and in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy with 64(68.09%) patients. The percentage occurrence of vaginal Candida species showed that Candida albicans was the most isolated species with 60(63.83%) isolates. The results indicated a high prevalence of vaginal candidiasis: 42.7%. The women at great risk were those between 26 - 35 years and in their 3rd trimester. Candida albicans was the most prevalent vaginal Candida species across all age groups and trimesters.
文摘The high population growth rate has been associated with the increased level of poverty, morbidity, mortality, and decreased life expectancy. Modern contraception is an important factor in controlling fertility through prevention of unintended and unwanted pregnancies. Contraception (birth control) prevents pregnancy by interfering with the normal process of ovulation, fertilization, and implantation. Contraceptive use is still very low in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where the levels of fertility and unmet need for family planning are high. The attitude of women toward contraception will usually affect the practice and utilization of contraceptives. The objective of this study is to assess the attitude, prevalence, and factors affecting contraceptive use among women attending Postnatal care in a tertiary health facility in Jos North L. G. A Plateau State, Nigeria. There was a descriptive cross-sectional study done between September to October 2019, with a sample size of 250 women. Respondents were determined using a multi-stage sampling method. Data collection was done using an interviewer-administered, pre-tested, structured questionnaire. The data was collected, entered, and analyzed using IBM Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Most women have a positive attitude 162 (64.8%) toward contraception while 88 (35.2%) had negative attitude toward contraception. Three quarters (75.2%) of women are willing to use contraception. The prevalence of contraceptive use among respondents was 35.6% while the prevalence of previous use of contraceptives among the respondents was 71.2%. Fifty (27.9%) used condom (barrier method), 40 (22.9%) used withdrawal method. Majority of the other respondents were spread across OCPs, injectables and implants. Major factors affecting the use of contraceptives were majorly attributed to informed choice with 60.1%, Partner’s decision (44.1%) and mild or no adverse reaction (12.8%). While major factors preventing use were lack of interest in 69.4%, partners’ decision in 14.9% and fear of side effects 12.5% of respondents. Respondents showed a wide acceptance of family planning services as majority of them see it as beneficial and are willing to go for another method after current pregnancy.
文摘A study was carried out to determine the status of malaria in four (4) selected hospitals in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State. A total of 300 pregnant women attending antenatal were tested for malaria parasite using rapid diagnostic test kits. Blood samples were obtained from finger by pricking and tested for malaria parasites. Structured questionnaires were administered to the pregnant women to obtain relevant information on the clinical and social aspects of malaria. A prevalence of 13.0% (39 women) was observed among pregnant women in Anyigba. Grimard Hospital and Egume General Hospital had the highest prevalence of 14.7% each;Maria Goretti Hospital had a prevalence of 13.3%, while KSUTH had the least prevalence of 9.3%. Age prevalence revealed that women with age < 20 years had the highest prevalence of 29.4% which was significant (p > 0.05) from the other age categories. Unemployed and women in their second trimester had the highest prevalence of 17.1% and 16.0% respectively. On the gravidity of the pregnant women, primigravidae (21.9%) was higher than multigravidae (10.6%) significantly (p < 0.05). Women from a polygamous family had a prevalence of 15.2% higher than those from monogamous family with a prevalence of 12.4%. The findings of this study revealed that malaria continues to exert significant public health and economic burden among pregnant women in parts of Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State. Continuous efforts at providing necessary information by relevant health organizations are needed to control and reduce incidence of malaria in this area.
文摘Background: Contraceptive acceptance and utilization in society has been a huge challenge for communities in developing countries. There is a need to support the increase in the utilization of contraception and family planning services. In all this, good knowledge and practice of contraception services will enable women to select the best methods. The study seeks to qualitatively assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of contraceptive use among women attending postnatal care in a health facility in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State in September 2019. This study utilized Focus Group Discussions among 36 women recruited using the purposive sampling technique. There were four (4) sessions involving nine (9) women per session. Findings: Of the 36 women, a majority (88.9%) had positive perception regarding contraception, all agreed that contraception and family planning is beneficial to families and communities. A majority felt that communities are yet to accept contraception. Most (83.3%) of the women had good knowledge of contraception. Three-quarters (77.8%) of the women have used contraception in the past, and about half (41.7%) are using it currently. Attitude towards adoption of contraceptives after current pregnancy was generally good. About half (52.7%) of the participants stated they required spousal approval before they adopt a method of contraception. Conclusion: There is a need for health agencies, development partners, and government to continue the health education, community sensitization, and support towards making contraception and family planning commodities available and accessible.
文摘Background: Condoms offer protection against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission when used correctly and consistently. Many HIV infected people do not use condom regularly, thus leading to new HIV infections and reinfections. In Kenya, condom use is considered to be low and HIV prevalence is high among women aged 15 - 49 years where utilization of condoms among HIV positive women has not been studied. Objectives: The study aimed at determining the prevalence of consistent condom use among HIV positive women aged 18 - 49 years and to investigate the variables associated with it. Methods: A mixed method of study design (qualitative and quantitative approaches) was employed. A total of 422 participants were selected randomly and interviewed using a pretested structured questionnaire. Three (3) focus group discussions with 8 participants in each group were conducted. Chi-square test (p < 0.05) and odds ratio with corresponding 95% confidence interval were computed to establish the association between consistent condom use and independent variables. Binary logistic regression model was used to identify variables independently associated with consistent condom use. Qualitative data were transcribed and coded and then analysed thematically. Results: Consistent condom use among sexually active HIV positive women was found to be 57.4% (95%CI: 52.7% - 62.1%). The stepwise logistic regression revealed that attending tertiary education [aOR = 2.54;95%CI = 1.30 - 4.95;P = 0.006], disclosing HIV status [aOR = 2.27;95%CI = 1.27 - 4.06;P = 0.005], having an HIV negative partner [aOR = 4.23;95%CI = 1.99 - 8.98;P < 0.001], not taking alcohol [aOR = 1.72;95%CI = 1.10 - 2.69;P = 0.017], never encountered resistance to use condom by partners [aOR = 1.87;95%CI = 1.15 - 3.03;P = 0.011] and perceived risk of contracting STIs [aOR = 2.11;95%CI = 1.12 - 3.97;P = 0.021] as factors independently associated with consistent condom use. Conclusion: This study shows that there is still low prevalence of consistent condom use among HIV positive women. More education, campaigning and sensitization should be tailored among HIV positive women during counseling so as to avoid re-infection and transmission of infections.
文摘<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Haematological profile of pregnant women provides vital information on physiological changes in pregnancy progress, outcome and possible maternal-foetal complications. The study assessed the haematological profile of pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methodology</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> The cross-sectional study was conducted at the antenatal clinic of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi between July and September 2018 among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic. Study participant w</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">as</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> recruited on voluntary basis and study questionnaire and informed consent administered. Blood samples </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">are </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">collected and analysed using System</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">x haematology autoanalyser.</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Result</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> A total of 191 study participants comprised</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> of</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> 141 pregnant women at different trimester stages and 50 non-pregnant. Mean haematocrit, haemgloblin, white blood count and platelet count of 35.8</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">±</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">9.0, 11.6</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">±</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">1.6, 7.7</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">±</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">5.7, and 234.0</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">±</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">74.6 respectively.</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Significant difference was observed between pregnant and non-pregnant women in neutrophil (0.016), mixed (eosinophil, basophil and monocyte, 0.05), lymphocyte (0.000), platelets (0.002) and RDWSD (0.025).</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Comparing haematological profile with trimester stages, significant association was observed with white blood cells count and mixed cell counts.</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: </span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">The</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">reduction in mean white blood cells count and increased haemocrit</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">concentration with the trimester stages contradict patterns in other</span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">similar studies. This further highlights the need for local data for early diagnosis of pregnancy-associated clinical conditions and management approach.
文摘Fungal infections have emerged as a worldwide health care problem in recent years, owing to the extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. We screened 104 pregnant women with symptoms of vaginal candidiasis in the antenatal clinic of Thika District Hospital, Kenya in order to identify vaginal Candida species and determine their susceptibility profile to commonly used antifungal drugs for treatment of the infection. The drugs tested were fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, clotrimazole and topical nystatin. Vaginal swabs were collected and subjected to mycological and biochemical tests for Candida species identification. Susceptibility profile of the identified vaginal Candida species to the antifungal drugs was carried out using broth micro-dilution minimum inhibiting concentration method based on the approved National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS, 2002) guidelines. Candida albicans was susceptible to most of the azoles drugs while the other species had varying responses. Candida krusei and Candida glabrata species isolated were resistant to fluconazole and ketoconazole. Candida albicans isolates had a high susceptibility to itraconazole (88.33%). Five percent (5%) of the isolates were susceptible in dose dependent (S-DD) with Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) of 0.25 - 0.5 μg/ml while 11.67% of C. albicans isolates were resistant (MICs ≥ 1 μg/ml). Itraconazole resistance was highest among C. glabrata isolates (50%) while 32.14% were S-DD (MICs 0.25 - 0.5 μg/ml). Only 17.85% of the C. glabrata isolates were susceptible (MICs of ≤ 0.125 μg/ml). All isolates of Candida isolates were susceptible to itraconazole and clotrimazole except C. krusei which was 100% resistant to clotrimazole. All Candida species isolates had low susceptibility to topical nystatin except Candida parapsilosis that was 100% susceptible. Data also showed an emerging resistance of Candida krusei to most of the drugs used except itraconazole. The results of this study support the continued use of these antifungal drugs for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis in the pregnant women except topical nystatin.
文摘Introduction: Viral hepatitis B (HBV) in pregnancy is a risk for childhood transmission where the majority become chronically infected. In Uganda, HBV is not tested for during antenatal, therefore the number of infected, infectious, immune and none-immune pregnant women is unknown curtailing efforts to prevent mother to child transmission. Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study involving 254 pregnant women from four health centers in Mbarara Municipality. HBV status was assessed using an immunochromatographic (COMBO) kit, the type of infection;based on demonstration of anti hepB core IgM (acute infection) and total core IgG antibodies (chronic infection) and infectiousness;based on the presence of HBeAg and/or a quantitative HBV viral load ≥ 20,000 IU/mL. Immunity was determined using the COMBO kit and HBsAb quantification ELISA. One was deemed immune to HBV if HBsAb titers were ≥10 mIU/mL. Results: The prevalence of HBV infection was 1.2%;33% and 67% with acute and chronic HBV respectively. 33% were infectious based on a high viral load, none had detectable HBeAg. 14% were immune;amongst whom 72% had natural exposure and 18% after vaccination. There was insufficient immunity in 11% with a majority (75%) having acquired immunity following vaccination. Conclusion: The prevalence of HBV is low and most of those are chronically infected. HBeAg and Hepatitis B viral load should be performed when evaluating infectiousness. Further, there is a high transmission of HBV among adults and a low uptake of the HBV vaccine in Mbarara Municipality.
文摘<strong>Background:</strong> Listeriosis affects immunosuppressed individual’s especially pregnant women. Maternal infections are usually mild for the woman, but may have devastating effects on the unborn child, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm labour and serious neonatal illness. WHO recommends that pregnant women should be educated to avoid foods with high risk of contamination. This study seeks to evaluate knowledge and practices predisposing to listeria infections during pregnancy. <strong>Methodology:</strong> This is a cross-sectional study on pregnant women, attending the antenatal clinic of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) using semi structured questionnaires. The knowledge score of participants was collated and analyzed using SPSS version 26. <strong>Results:</strong> The mean age of the participants was 32.07 ± 5.6 years. Forty-three (30.7%) women have had previous miscarriages with the mean no of miscarriage of 1.54. Out of 147 participants, only 20 (13.6%) admitted having heard of listeriosis while 127 (86.4%) had never heard of listeriosis and none of the participants has ever been tested for listeriosis. The Overall knowledge score was poor, and this was irrespective of age and duration of pregnancy. However, women with graduate and/or postgraduate degrees were more likely to have heard of Listeriosis (X2 = 10.88, P = 0.028). <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Our study shows a low level of knowledge about this food-borne illness, which can lead to severe illnesses in pregnant women and their unborn child. It is necessarily to educate pregnant women on the risk of listeriosis. This would be a key factor in creating and implementing accurate measures of prevention and control.
文摘Background: Undernutrition during pregnancy in the developing countries is a major public health problem due to its strong association with maternal and child morbidity and mortality. The available data on the extent and determinants of under-nutrition among pregnant women in Kenya is scant. This main objective of the study is to establish the extent and determinants of undernutrition in pregnant women attending a public hospital in Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 162 randomly selected pregnant women who attended antenatal clinic at Pumwani Maternity Hospital, a well-known public health facility in Nairobi. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Nutritional status of the pregnant mothers was determined using mid-upper arm circumference measurement. Hemoglobin level was extracted from the maternal antenatal card to determine their anemic status. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done using SPSS Software (version 22.0). Frequencies and proportions were generated for categorical variables. While mean and standard deviation were computed for continuous variables. The chi-square test of independence was employed to establish the relationship between the independent variables and dependent variable. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the variables independently linked to maternal undernutrition. Results: The overall prevalence of undernutrition and anemia among the pregnant women was 27% and 39.7%, respectively. Multivariable logistic analysis showed that being single [AOR = 4.27;95% CI = 2.21 - 8.32, P = 0.001], divorced/separated [AOR = 2.25;95% CI = 1.13 - 4.87;P = 0.021], self-employed [AOR = 4.27;95% CI = 2.21 - 8.32;P = 0.022], illiterate [AOR = 4.31;95% CI = 2.55 - 8.20;P = 0.007), having short birth interval (<24 months) [AOR = 2.54;95% CI = 1.43 - 5.53;P = 0.042] and being anemic [AOR = 2.7;95% CI = 1.66 - 4.97;P = 0.037] were the variables significantly and independently associated with undernutrition among the pregnant women. Conclusions: Our findings show that the burden of undernutrition during pregnancy is still high in Kenya which requires urgent attention. Pregnant women who were never married, divorced/separated, self-employed, illiterate, and those with short birth interval were at increased risk of undernutrition. Nutrition intervention targeting social determinants of maternal undernutrition may result in positive outcomes. This will significantly help achieve the SDGs by reducing maternal child mortality.
文摘Background: The Nnewly reported cases ofcongenital syphilis have been increaseding substantiallyover the past few years. To control the epidemic, a mu-nicipal program aimed at preventing mother-to-childtransmission of syphilis was introduced in July, 2001,which was designed aimed to screen all pregnant womenfor syphilis at their first visit to antenatal clinics or atadmission to hospitals in Shenzhen.Objectives: The aim of the study is tTo determine theprevalence of syphilis among women attending antenatalclinics and other medical institutions in Shenzhen andidentifies its patterns of infection. Methods: Upon giving informed consent, w Women whoattended antenatal care centers in Shenzhen from Janu-ary to December 2003 were included in this study subjectto obtaining informed consent. A blood sample was har-vested for syphilis screened for syphilising by using rapidplasma reagent test (RPR) and confirmed by TPHA forthose who were RPR positive. The women with pregnantsyphilispositive serology were systematically interviewedto obtain . During the interview, their demographicdetailsinformation,patterns of risk behaviors andother data. Data were collected andwere analyzedretrospectively.Results: Among Of 118,235 pregnant women surveyed,555 pregnant women were confirmed to have syphilis(prevalence of 4.69%), with a incidence of 4.69‰。 123women were excluded from the analysis because of in-complete medical records. Of 432 infected subjects withcomplete medical records, the average age was 26.8, witha range of 19 to 41. 7.41% (32/432) of them suffered fromprimary syphilis, 3.24% (14 /432) were ofhad secondary syphilis, and 89.35% (386/432) had latent syphilis. with-out any conspicuous clinical signs and symptoms.Conclusions: The prevalence of syphilis among the preg-nant women in our series was high and most of them wereasymptomatic. Screening for syphilis among pregnantwomen in Shenzhen is of importantce for the preventionof mother-to-child transmission of syphilis.
