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Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2997-2108.jcc-25-5518
Steven KikonyogoCorresponding author
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, with 660,000 new cases and 350,000 deaths in 2022. The burden is disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly sub-Saharan Africa. Despite proven interventions like HPV vaccination and screening, uptake remains low. While cervical cancer screening has been studied in the general population, little is known about uptake among refugee women in Uganda, which hosts approximately 1.7 million refugees. This study examines cervical cancer screening uptake and associated factors among refugee women in Uganda. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional secondary analysis of the 2021 Uganda Refugee Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (RUPHIA) survey, focusing on women aged 21–49 in refugee settlements in the West Nile and South-Western regions, which host 90% of Uganda’s refugee population. The primary outcome was self-reported cervical cancer screening status. We used descriptive statistics and logistic regression to identify factors associated with screening uptake. Results Among 731 women, only 72 (9.8%) reported undergoing cervical cancer screening. The mean age of screened women was 37 years (±7), compared to 32 years (±8) for unscreened women. Screening uptake was significantly higher among women aged 31–39 years (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI: 1.32–5.52, p = 0.007), married women (AOR = 12.0, 95% CI: 1.76–163, p = 0.03), and those in polygamous relationships (AOR = 4.76, 95% CI: 1.96–11.1, p < 0.001) Conclusion Cervical cancer screening uptake among refugee women in Uganda is critically low. Integrating culturally sensitive screening programs into refugee health services and addressing socio-economic barriers could improve access and utilization.
Nov 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-3379.jwc-25-5549
Chukwuma Sr ChrysanthusCorresponding author
This short communication/mini-review immensely emphasizes human health to explicate and elucidate management of the global scourge associated with the determinants and impact of vulnerabilities to extreme hydrologic events and climate change in the absence of risk reduction and their concomitant sequelae. The most effective approach for risk reduction associated with biodiversity, environmental, and health vulnerabilities due to climate change and extreme hydrological events, an ecological framework must take into cognizance exposure, vulnerability, and resilience. This framework emphasizes the significance of understanding the inextricable linkage between ecosystems and human communities are exposed and susceptible to hazards, sensitivity to these hazards, and capacity to cope, adapt and recuperate. Risk reduction incorporates structurally attenuating exposure, strengthening resilience, and sustainably enhancing overall vulnerability management. Extreme weather and climate-associated incidents impinge on human health with consequential morbidity, mortality and socioeconomic challenges and constraints. Climate change and extreme event have altered the frequency, intensity, geographic distribution, and propensity as drivers for change in the future. The indicted variables include hydrological events, such as precipitation, floods and droughts as well as heat waves, wildfires, global warming, extreme temperatures, and hurricanes. The pathways inextricably-linked with extreme events to economic dissipation, human health prognosis and outcomes remain inexplicably diverse and complex; and thus, difficult to predict due to their emergence and reemergence from local, societal and environmental factors which influence disease burden.
Jan 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-23-4865
Abdullahi Dahie HassanCorresponding author
Background Breastfeeding is a vital practice for infant health and well-being, with exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) during the first six months being particularly crucial. Despite its benefits, EBF is sub-optimally practiced in many low-to-middle income countries. This study focuses on Somalia, a country with historical political instability and poor health indicators, aiming to identify the prevalence and determinants of exclusive breastfeeding among women with infants under six months attending SOS Mother and Child Hospital in Mogadishu. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional design was used, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire. The study sample consisted of 345 mothers, selected using a systematic sampling technique. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess breastfeeding practices and determine factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding prevalence. Result The study found that the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among the study population in Somalia was 44%, influenced by factors such as maternal education, employment, and utilization of antenatal and postnatal care services. Male infants and younger infants had higher odds of being exclusively breastfed. Conclusion and recommendations The study emphasizes the importance of promoting exclusive breastfeeding as the optimal feeding practice for infants in Somalia, highlighting the need for comprehensive health education during antenatal care visits and postnatal counseling. It recommends the development of supportive policies, such as maternity leave and workplace accommodations, along with community-based initiatives and support groups to facilitate and encourage exclusive breastfeeding practices.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3162
Ka chun YUNG TonyCorresponding author
Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Aim Overconsumption of salt contributes to hypertension and increases the risks of cardiovascular diseases. Most studies that investigated salt intake by applying the Health belief model (HBM) have focused on urban settings. This study aims to identify the prevalence of salt overconsumption (>6 g per day) in a rural village in Southwestern China and to determine the association between knowledge regarding salt consumption/HBM constructs and salt overconsumption behavior among village residents. Methods Inthis cross-sectional study, 79 adults aged 18 years and above were interviewed using household-based and face-to-face questionnaires. Salt intake was measured using an electronic balance in accordance with a previous protocol. Results Our finding showed that the average daily salt intake is 11.19±11.14 (mean±SD) g. Moreover, 64.6% of the participants overconsumed salt. None of the participants was aware of the national recommendation for salt intake. Univariate logistic regression showed that i) knowledge about hypertension causing cardiovascular diseases (odds ratio [ORu]=3.02), ii) perceived severity of hypertension as a serious disease (ORu=4.92), and iii) perceived benefit of reducing salt intake to prevent hypertension (ORu=3.52) were unexpectedly positively associated with salt overconsumption behavior. All the studied sociodemographic factors were not associated with salt overconsumption behavior. Conclusions A high prevalence of salt overconsumption was found among residents of rural villages in Southwestern China. HBM was unable to explain the causal relationship between its constructs and salt overconsumption behavior. The extremely low awareness of the national salt recommendation highlighted the urgent need to provide relevant health education in rural China.
Feb 2019
Mohamed Alsanosy RashadCorresponding author
College of Medicine, Substance Abuse Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
Objectives This study was designed to assess the demographic characteristics, prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetSy) among patients with schizophrenia in Saudi Arabia. Methods This is a disease-oriented and observational study. Schizophrenia was defined by DSM-IV criteria. MetSy were assessed based on the international criteria (NCEP-ATP III and AHA/NHLB). Results 90% of the participants are without a university degree and 56.4% are single. Chronic and acute cases of schizophrenia were 95% and 5%, respectively. The treatment of schizophrenia was combination therapy and monotherapy with percentages of 56% and 44%, respectively. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 121.92±11.07 mmHg and 77.29±0.45 mmHg, respectively. Surprisingly, all patients have abnormal HDL. A mean waist circumference of 90.23±14.88 cm for men, and 93.38±15.28 cm for women. The analysis of 101 patients showed a prevalence of the MetSy is 15.8%. Chi-square test of independence showed lack of independency of MetSy on type of therapy. Modeling of MetSy and risk factors was also conducted. Conclusion The metabolic syndrome is greatly established among schizophrenic patients. It signifies a vital hazard for metabolic and cardiovascular ailments. Evaluation of the incidence and examining of the related threats of the metabolic syndrome should be an element of the clinical managing of patients cured with antipsychotics.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-18-2223
Jnr. John Elvis HaganCorresponding author
Neurocognition and Action - Biomechanics"- Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
Marijuana utilization among school aged adolescents is major public and mental health concern in Ghana and other developing countries, with the rate of usage soaring high among school going adolescents. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of marijuana utilization among selected Junior High School (JHS) students in the Central Region of Ghana and explore the relative impact of psychosocial factors accounting for its usage. Using a descriptive cross-sectional survey design with the Global School Based Survey GSHS questionnaire, a sample of 1400 school going adolescents students were drawn using multistage sampling procedure. Frequencies, percentages and binary logistic regression results indicated marijuana utilization prevalence of 9% (n = 122). Statistically, gender (OR = 0.52, 95% CI= 0.35 - .765, p = 0.001), religious affiliation (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.0 - 2.95, p = 0.034), socioeconomic background (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.33 - 1.23, p = 0.004) and geographical location (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.31 - .886, p = 0.016) significantly predicted marijuana utilization among school aged adolescents. No statistically significant variations were found in the odds of students’ marijuana usage for age (OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.69 - 1.88, p = 0.590), parental communication (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.56 - 1.23, p = 0.348) and academic performance (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.66 -1.80, p = 0.744). Findings suggest that school based research should reflect and perhaps replicate existing prevalence, patterns of marijuana and other drug use through multiple school surveys nationwide. This pathway may provide useful information towards the design, evaluation and implementation of drug prevention cognitive-behavioural interventions and the development of stringent drug regulative standards.
Jan 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-15-801
Lin Feng XingCorresponding author
Department of Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, Peking University, 100191
Objectives: To measure the horizontal inequity in the uptake of hospital delivery and quantify the contribution of various social determinants of health (SDH) to such inequity in China from 1993-2008 Methods: With four national representative surveys in China conducted in 1993, 1998, 2003 and 2008, we measured horizontal inequity in the uptake of hospital delivery using indirect standardized concentration indices (CIs). By decomposing Cis into components, we explored the contributions of income, health insurance, education, living conditions to such inequities. Oaxaca type decomposition was further used to explain the role for each SDH on the changes of inequities between 1993 and 2008. Results: We found that horizontal inequity in the coverage of hospital delivery approached equal line in the urban areas and shrank by 90% in rural China in 1993-2008. The data also showed that dramatic socio-economic achievement was made across the 16 years, including education, income, health insurance and living conditions, which contributed substantially to the reduction of the inequities in the uptake of hospital delivery. Income’s contribution was mainly made by its protection effect, while health insurance’s role was mainly played by its equal distributions in the rural areas. Conclusions: The horizontal inequity in the uptake of hospital births vanished in urban China and decreased in the rural. The leading contributors to such inequity were income, health insurance, living conditions and education. Decomposition analysis suggests that more investments are warranted for financial risk protection and targeted demand side subsidies may make a difference.
Jul 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-321
Ezinne Enwereji EzinnaCorresponding author
College of Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Abia State University Uturu, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria.
Background: The use of condoms in marriages is a complex decision. It however plays a role in prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The problem is, what factors and conditions determine consistent condom use among HIV positive women? This study aimed at identifying determinants of consistent condom use among HIV positive women cohabiting with their partners and attending ‘Heart to Heart’ treatment centre in Abia State University Teaching Hospital. Materials and Method: This longitudinal descriptive study was conducted among 248 married HIV positive women who attended ‘Heart to Heart’ treatment centre in the Abia State University Teaching Hospital from December 2012 to February 2013 and are cohabiting with their partners. Interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the respondents. Data were analysed using SPSS version 17 software. Results: A total of 73(29.4%) of the respondents used condom consistently. Age, level of education, and desire for more children influenced condom use (OR 7.023., CI 2.050 – 24.047, P<0.001). The older the respondents, the more condom they used (OR 164.474, CI 21.477 – 1260.2, P<0.001). Also the more educated the respondents were, (tertiary, secondary) the more likely they used condom. Women who did not desire more children used condom more than those who desired more children (OR 13.612, CI 0.043-26.311, P<0.001). Women who had disclosed their HIV status to their spouses, used condom more than those who had not (OR 13.072, CI 5.836 – 29.253, P<0.001). Conclusion The fact thatonly 29.4% of the respondents used condom consistently with their spouses shows lack of awareness of the benefits of condom use. Health education which will stress the importance of using condom in preventing HIV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is recommended for HIV positive women and their spouses.
Jul 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-26-6309
Joan NakkaziCorresponding author
Introduction Young pregnant mothers experience heightened biological, social, and economic vulnerabilities that may compromise health-related quality of life (HRQoL), especially in low-resource settings. Although maternal healthcare service utilization (MHCSU) improves clinical outcomes, evidence linking it to HRQoL among young mothers in Uganda remains limited. This study examined determinants of HRQoL among young pregnant mothers aged 10–24 years in Eastern Uganda, with emphasis on MHCSU. Methods A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 967 young pregnant mothers in selected districts of Eastern Uganda. The study used baseline data collected prior to randomization and implementation of any intervention. Although the WHOQOL-BREF instrument was administered in full, the present analysis utilized the global quality-of-life item (Question 1: "How would you rate your quality of life?") as the primary outcome measure. Responses ranged from very poor (1) to very good (5) and were analyzed as an ordinal outcome using ordered logistic regression. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA for bivariate associations and ordered logistic regression models to assess predictors of HRQoL, all conducted at a 95% confidence level. Results Results from the bivariate analysis indicated that uptake of antenatal care (ANC), skilled birth attendance (SBA), and access to postnatal care (PNC) were associated with better health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among young pregnant mothers. Mothers who attended antenatal care reported higher mean HRQoL scores compared to those who did not (2.98 ± 1.12 vs. 2.66 ± 0.96, p = .001), demonstrating that ANC utilization is positively linked to maternal well-being. Similarly, mothers who delivered with the assistance of skilled birth attendants had higher HRQoL scores than those who did not (3.00 ± 1.11 vs. 2.65 ± 0.97, p < .001), indicating the importance of skilled delivery care in improving quality of life. Access to postnatal care also showed a positive association, with mothers who received PNC services reporting higher HRQoL scores compared to those who did not (2.97 ± 1.12 vs. 2.71 ± 1.10, p = .003). Overall, these findings suggest that increased utilization of maternal healthcare services is consistently associated with improved HRQoL among young pregnant mothers. In the ordered logistic regression analysis, ANC uptake remained a statistically significant predictor of HRQoL (OR = 1.686, p < .001), indicating that mothers who accessed ANC services had approximately 1.69 times higher odds of being in better quality of life categories compared to those who did not. Similarly, skilled birth attendance was positively and significantly associated with HRQoL (OR = 1.761, p < .001), suggesting that mothers who delivered with skilled health personnel were more likely to report improved quality of life outcomes. Access to postnatal care also demonstrated a significant positive effect (OR = 1.552, p = .002), implying that mothers who received PNC services had higher odds of better HRQoL. In the multivariable model, immediate health-seeking behavior remained a significant predictor (OR = 1.411, p = .006), indicating that prompt care utilization increases the likelihood of improved well-being. Conversely, perceived quality of care was negatively associated with HRQoL; compared to mothers who perceived care as excellent, those who rated care as good (OR = 0.394, p < .001), fair (OR = 0.083, p < .001), and poor (OR = 0.077, p < .001) had significantly lower odds of reporting better quality of life. These findings highlight the critical importance of perceived care quality in shaping maternal well-being. Conclusion Maternal healthcare service utilization and positive care experiences were significantly associated with better HRQoL among young pregnant mothers. Expanding access to ANC, SBA, and PNC alongside respectful, youth-responsive care is essential to improve maternal well-being in Eastern Uganda.
Jun 2026
De Coninck LeenCorresponding author
Background A persistent gap remains between evidence-based health care and its application in routine practice. This challenge is particularly prominent in allied health professions like occupational therapy (OT), where interventions are complex, individualized and centred on patients' daily functioning. Objective To identify barriers, facilitators, and implementation strategies for integrating evidence-based OT interventions in multiple sclerosis (MS) rehabilitation. Methods A mapping review was conducted using searches in five databases. Eligible studies included adults with MS, examined OT interventions, and reported on factors influencing implementation. Data were extracted and categorized using Grol’s framework for barriers/facilitators and Mazza’s taxonomy for implementation strategies. Results Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria. Barriers and facilitators were identified at multiple levels of Grol’s framework: 1-Innovation-level: accessibility, feasibility, and perceived attractiveness supported implementation, particularly when interventions incorporated holistic approaches, gamification, or printed manuals. 2-Professional-level: therapists’ competencies and alignment between interventions and patients’ priorities. 3-Patient-related: facilitators included motivation, readiness to change, and peer support, whereas fatigue, pain, and cognitive challenges served as barriers. 4-Social and organizational: effective teamwork, resource availability, and flexible scheduling facilitated successful adoption. 5-Economic or political: no studies. Implementation strategies focused on using manuals, patient empowerment, gamification, and organizational supports. No financial or structural policy-level strategies were identified. Conclusion Successful implementation of evidence-based OT for MS requires multifaceted, context-sensitive strategies addressing innovation, professional, patient, and organizational determinants. Practical approaches enhance uptake, while substantial gaps persist at economic and policy levels. Strengthening these areas may improve longterm integration and sustainability of evidence-based OT in MS rehabilitation.
Jun 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-26-6358
Marks RayCorresponding author
Hip fractures, which remain an immense public health concern, have been subject to study and prevention efforts for many decades, but with limited success in averting either incident, second or subsequent hip fractures, commonly attributed to a combination of age related proclivity to fall, low bone and muscle mass. This review examines second hip fracture incidence rates and determinants of this serious functionally debilitating injury as observed over time remains a current 2026 public health concern. It specifically explores if more preventive efforts are currently warranted in this regard, and in what respect, if indeed, more frail older adults are living longer, but may be in excessively poor health, fearful of moving or falling, malnourished, weak with poor balance, or depressed. Based on what is published, it is concluded 1) second hip fracture incidence rates remain considerable, especially among those who are frail with osteoporotic bone disease, poor vision, heart/or cognitive conditions, plus those with muscle deficits of the lower limb, live alone and have a falls history; 2) studies to identify possible mitigation approaches appear promising in this regard, along with more routine efforts to minimize falls risk and bone attrition.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-25-5852
Anirudhan RanjaniCorresponding author
South Asian female college students in the United States face mental health challenges shaped by intersecting experiences of discrimination and violence. This study examined how discrimination and violence contribute to depression in this population. An anonymous, cross-sectional, web-based survey (N=673) was distributed nationally through South Asian organizations, listservs, and social media. Validated measures assessed day-to-day discrimination, college-based discrimination, experiences of violence during college, and depression (PHQ-9). Bivariate analyses and multivariate linear regression examined associations, adjusting for sociodemographic factors. Over half of participants (51.1%) reported college-based discrimination, 66.1% reported experiencing violence during college, and 25.7% met the criteria for depression. In adjusted models, day-to-day discrimination (β=0.261, p<0.001) and college violence (β=0.207, p<0.001) were significant predictors of depression. Bisexual and questioning/unsure students also reported higher depression scores than heterosexual peers. Discrimination and violence are key social determinants of mental health among this population. Findings underscore the need for culturally responsive mental health services, intersectional campus policies, and evidence-based interventions to promote health equity among minority women in higher education.
Nov 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-5360
Alam RashedCorresponding author
Background Malnutrition is a significant public health issue in Bangladesh, particularly impacting women and children. Rajshahi, marked by socio-economic disparities, offers a distinctive context to explore the nutritional status and health outcomes of these vulnerable groups. Objectives This study aims to assess the nutritional status of women and children in Rajshahi and investigate associated health outcomes. Additionally, it seeks to identify socio-economic and cultural factors that influence nutrition. Methods A mixed-methods approach was utilized, incorporating a cross-sectional survey of 460 households and in-depth interviews with mothers and caregivers. Anthropometric measurements were taken to evaluate the nutritional status of women and children, while dietary assessments measured nutrient intake and diversity. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the likelihood of malnutrition based on socio-economic characteristics, thereby identifying key risk factors. Results The findings indicate a troubling prevalence of malnutrition, with 36% of children under five classified as stunted and 25% as underweight. The analysis highlights critical factors contributing to chronic undernutrition, including maternal education, employment, and dietary diversity. Notably, mothers aged 27-37 exhibit a lower risk of undernutrition, and urban households with secure food access demonstrate better nutritional outcomes. Discussion Maternal education and employment were positively associated with better nutritional outcomes, as educated and employed mothers had higher chances of maintaining a normal BMI. Regular ANC visits (≥4 visits) were crucial for improved maternal nutrition. Household food security emerged as a significant determinant, with food-secure households showing better maternal nutritional status. Safe water access and adequate dietary diversity were also linked to improved maternal BMI. Additionally, factors such as child birth weight, exclusive breastfeeding, and childhood diarrhea significantly influenced maternal nutrition. Moreover, frequent antenatal care visits and a diverse diet are vital in mitigating undernutrition risks among children. Conclusion This study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted interventions to combat malnutrition in Rajshahi. Recommendations include implementing community-based nutrition education programs and improving access to healthcare services. By addressing the socio-economic and cultural determinants of nutrition, stakeholders can enhance health outcomes for women and children in the region, ultimately contributing to broader public health objectives in Bangladesh.
Sep 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-137X.ji-24-5207
Olutola AyodotunCorresponding author
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a major challenge to global efforts to control the pandemic, particularly in Nigeria, where hesitancy to other effective vaccines such as polio and measles has been widely reported. Several individual, societal, and structural factors contribute to this behaviour and prevent the effectiveness of COVID-19 prevention efforts. Objectives This study sought to identify the predictors of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the seven states of North-Central, Nigeria. Methods A population-based cross-sectional online survey was conducted among residents using a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO SAGE vaccine hesitancy scale and distributed via social media networks over 8-weeks. Results A total of 1,429 responses met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Among the respondents, 60.7% were males, 47.5% were between the ages of 26 and 45, and 80.1% had postsecondary education. A total of 421 respondents (29.5%) were hesitant and unwilling to receive the vaccine. The reasons for hesitancy were concerns about side effects (37.1%), doubt about the existence of COVID-19 (11.0%), and the perception of time required to receive the vaccine (9.6%). Post-secondary education (AOR: 0.49, 0.36-0.66) and people of the Islamic faith (AOR: 0.68, 0.52-0.90) were found to be associated with lower levels of hesitancy. Conclusion The study found that vaccine hesitancy is a complex problem that is linked with multiple social determinants of health as lower educational attainment, lower income and Christian faith were found to be predictors of vaccine hesitancy. Confidence, Complacency and Convenience factors were expressed by respondents as concerns about side effects, doubt about the existence of COVID-19 and time required to receive the vaccines were the most prominent reasons for unwillingness to receive the vaccine. In order to protect the public health of communities, targeted interventions are required to increase vaccine acceptance by cultivating trust in vaccines, disseminating accurate information, and engaging with community stakeholders including religious groups.
Jul 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-24-5146
C SteffenCorresponding author
Dietary intake of inorganic phosphates is linked to various adverse health effects. Excessive intake of highly soluble inorganic phosphates, which are used as feed and food additives, have been found to impair parameters of kidney health. As chronic kidney disease represents one of the most frequently occurring terminal diseases especially in cats, extensive knowledge regarding the safety of these additives is important. Other minerals, such as calcium, can modulate their effects on the phosphate homeostasis and kidney health. Therefore, it is crucial to examine further factors, such as the dietary cation-anion balance (CAB), resulting from the concentrations of major minerals in a diet. In this study, eleven healthy cats were fed a control diet and two diets with added sodium monophosphate (NaH2PO4) with either a low (-10 mmol/kg dry matter) or high (+450 mmol/kg dry matter) CAB for 28 days each. The serum concentrations of phosphate and parameters of phosphate homeostasis were determined in the fasting and postprandial blood samples next to the apparent digestibility and retention of phosphate and calcium. The diet with positive CAB led to an increase of serum phosphate and the phosphatonin FGF23, apparently digested phosphate, and phosphate retention. This is further proof that source and amount of phosphates in a diet are not the only determinants of the extent of potential adverse health effects. Until the interactions between inorganic phosphates and other dietary compounds are fully understood, recommendations regarding the safe use of phosphate containing additives in pet food are precarious.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-24-5036
Saeki TamieCorresponding author
According to the Japan’s National Health and Nutrition Survey, trends in the intake of vegetables and fruits (1999-2018), which are considered effective in preventing lifestyle-related diseases, are far below the target value; In the under-50 age group, less than 30% achieved the target vegetable intake of 350g, and less than 15% achieved the target fruit intake of 200g 53. Against such background, it has become a challenge to nurture children's ‘self-management ability’ that leads to spontaneous and healthy dietary habits 16. Until now, almost all research on ‘Dietary education’ has been conducted in the field of nutrition, focusing on accumulating nutritional knowledge by explaining each nutritional component and its function. However, it is difficult to nurture spontaneous and healthy dietary habits simply through repeated nutrition-based education. It can be said that the pedagogical approach of this paper has made it possible to pursue from a broader perspective that influences food choices. Research on ‘nutrition transition’ points out “worldwide obesity dynamics and their determinants” based on “a shift in the broader patterns of dietary habits (Western-style diet) and corresponding nutrition-related diseases” 42. Nutrition transition research 5040 has a broad and holistic perspective on food and health, making it easy to understand nutrition. The purpose of this paper is to pursue how to nurture the ‘self-management ability’ for spontaneous and healthy dietary habits, based on these latest nutritional knowledges. Because nutrition transition is a global phenomenon, the author choses to use broader methods of international comparative research. Comparisons lead to discoveries and value creation. This can be said to have the greatest significance in comparative research.
Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-23-4634
Makura AlfredCorresponding author
Introduction Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a persistent global public health challenge. In 2020, approximately 37.9 million individuals were living with HIV globally, including 1.7 million children <15 years old, with a global HIV prevalence of 0.8% among adults. A larger portion of people living with HIV are found in low-and middle-income countries, and Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is home to about 68% of people living with HIV in the world. Strikingly, with increased uptakes in PMTCT, challenges in ART programs, and high viremia among children and adolescents in SSA, the success rate of ART might be quickly compromised, with possible HIVDR emergence, particularly after years of paediatric ART exposure. Therefore, monitoring ART response in children and adolescents in terms of HIVDR patterns and other socio-economic determinants of disease progression might help achieve better treatment outcomes at individual levels. At a programmatic level, this can guide further optimization of treatment options for SSA especially Zimbabwean rural where there is paucity of information on HIVDR prevalence in children and adolescents. Methods We enrolled 89 children and adolescents experiencing virologic failure from Chidamoyo Christian Hospital in Hurungwe. We managed to amplify all the 89 using nested PCR and 32.5% (29) had resistance to at least one ART drug and analysis was done using the 29 samples. Results Among the 89 participants with virologic failure,29 were resistant to at least one of their ART drugs. 39.2% of males and 23.07% of females had HIV-1 with resistance to at least one medication. Among 29 participants with HIVDR mutations, the prevalence of at least one HIVDR mutation to protease inhibitors (PIs), Nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTI), and Non-Nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTI) were 6.47% ,46.76% and 46.76% respectively. Of the 29 participants who had HIVDR 19 (65.5%) had resistance to a drug they were currently taking and they needed to be switched to a better effective ART regimen Conclusion Use of HIVDR testing in guiding and monitoring development of HIVDR at the start of ART or at 1st failure can be very important in treatment options and patient management.
Jan 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-4044
Chukwuma Sr ChrysanthusCorresponding author
The Chrysanthus Centre for Future-Oriented Studies, Centre For Future-Oriented Studies, CTR Future-Oriented Ltd, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
This paper attempts to present the dissemination and transmission dynamics of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases and the underlying features of gain-of-function research and geopolitics in the ambient within and across borders. Research and publication are relevant from perspectives in the management of local and global health because disease is perspicuously a geopolitical issue ostensibly linked to gain-of-function research where health diplomacy undergirds present and future global functionalities regarding the emergence and reemergence of infectious diseases. These have generated vehement reactions with propensity for extreme geopolitics and gain-of-function natural and anthropogenic activities. Geopolitical parameters and gain-of-function issues impact on the social determinants of health and vice versa. The convening and convergence of countries for unprecented epidemic or pandemic treaty settings or other formulations to confront emerging and reemerging infectious diseases will afford considerable opportunities concerning challenges in action, preparedness and response. Provisions are pertinent for legal instruments, effective and efficient systems to curb future threats and outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-21-3752
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.
Background Falls injuries continue to contribute to numerous premature deaths as well as high disability levels, and excess morbidity rates among older adults, worldwide. But can vitamin D account for excess falls injuries among older adults? This review specifically focuses on what is known about vitamin D in the context of postural stability or balance control, both fairly consistent independent predictors of falls among older adults. Methods and Procedures Drawn largely from a review of current relevant English language peer reviewed research publications published over the last 10 years detailing the relationship between vitamin D levels and balance control among the elderly, as this relates to falls injuries, evidence for any emerging consensus on this controversial topic was sought. Used to conduct the search were various key word combinations including: falls injuries and older adults, vitamin D or vitamin D deficiency and balance or postural control. The database used predominantly to provide input into this largely descriptive assessment and narrative overview was PUBMED. Results The prevailing data show falls injuries currently constitute a widespread costly major impediment to successful aging and longevity for many older adults, despite numerous efforts to prevent this disabling set of events over the past two to three decades. However, no consistent association appears to exist between the variables of vitamin D, falls, and balance attributes in the older population-despite years of research, regardless of study approach, and a strong rationale for hypothesizing a clinically meaningful relationahip. Conclusion It is not possible to arrive at any universal recommendation concerning the value of vitamin D supplementation as regards its possible influence on balance capacity among older adults in the realm of falls prevention efforts, as has been frequently proposed. However, until more definitive research is conducted, there still appears sufficient justification for considering the screening of vulnerable aging adults for serum vitamin D levels, along with balance impairments, and intervening as required in the case of deficits in either or both of these possible falls determinants.
Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-20-3496
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, NY 10027, United States
Osteoarthritis, a widespread joint disease, commonly results in considerable pain and functional disability, especially among older adults. At the same time, falls and fall injuries, also common among the older population, may not only contribute to the onset of osteoarthritis, but once established, to falls that lead to fractures and disability in their own right. But what does the research show specifically? Objective This report aimed to examine what is known about the interrelationship between falls and osteoarthritis and the implications that can be drawn from this information. Methods Using the PUBMED data base, studies describing an association between osteoarthritis and falls were sought. Those fulfilling the eligibility criteria were reviewed and summarized in narrative form. Results Consistent support for an osteoarthritis-falls associated linkage is limited and not as robust as one would predict. Whether the observed associations between these health determinants are a cause of osteoarthritis, a consequence or both, or simply spurious findings is hard to decipher. Conclusion More numerous and carefully designed research to examine this issue is warranted and may be extremely helpful in preventing, as well as ameliorating a high degree of excess disability and associated fiscal costs due to both falls as well as osteoarthritis among the elderly.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3463
Lemogoum DanielCorresponding author
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
Background Evidence suggests that low birth weight (LBW) is associated with increased cardiovascular and metabolic risk in adulthood, including increased arterial stiffness, a marker of early vascular aging (EVA) assessable by pulse wave velocity (PWV), obesity and glucose homeostasis abnormalities. The present study aimed to explore the late impact of LBW on PWV and cardiometabolic phenotypes among young adult Cameroonians. Methods The study evaluated 120 subjects (mean age: 26 ± 5 years; 54% male sex) at the Cameroon Heart Institute, Douala, Cameroon, between January and June 2018. Birth weight (BW) and gestational age, sociodemographic, anthropometrics and fasting capillary blood glucose were recorded in all participants. Blood pressure (BP) and PWV were measured using an automatic oscillometric device (Mobil-O-Graph®). Multiple-adjusted linear regression was used to determine predictive factors for PWV. For assessment of potential impact of BW on EVA, PWV was adjusted for age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). Results 28 participants (23.3%) of the study sample had LBW (<3000g). There was no gender difference between LBW or normal birth weight patients (NBW; controls). Age- and MAP-adjusted PWV (aPWV) were higher in women with LBW compared to NBW (5.6 m/s and 5.3 m/s respectively, P = 0.038). In men, aPWV was similar in LBW and NBW. In this study population, aPWV was higher (on average +15 cm/s) in LBW than in controls, although the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.083). Multivariate regression analysis showed age, male sex, BMI and MAP were independent determinants of PWV, but not LBW. Compared to NBW controls, the prevalence of overweight/obesity, impaired glucose homeostasis and diabetes was higher in LBW: 42.9% vs 37%; 10.7% vs 3.3%, and 3.6 % vs 1.1%, respectively. Moreover, compared with controls, LBW individuals who were overweight/obese in adulthood had a much higher mean fasting capillary glucose (1.54 ±0.17 g/l vs 0.87 ±0.11 g/l in NBW, p=0.003). Conclusion This study suggests that although LBW is associated with increased aortic stiffness in young adulthood, mainly in women, the association was predominantly driven by aging, MAP, BMI and male sex. In adulthood, LBW subjects exhibited higher obesity indices and altered glucose homeostasis.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-20-3189
Mamadou Sekongo YassonguiCorresponding author
Department of Training and Research, National Blood Transfusion Center; Abidjan; Côte D’Ivoire
This article has been retracted on 29 January 2021. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-25-5854) In Côte d'Ivoire, sickle cell disease affects 14% of the population. It is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. Transfusion is a significant element in the management of major sickle cell anemia, which exposes them to post-transfusion hemochromatosis. The biological diagnosis is based on the determination of serum iron and the transferrin saturation coefficient (CST). As the determination of the CST was not available in our exercise context in Côte d'Ivoire, we determined only the ferritinemia. The interest of this work lies in the therapeutic implication linked to the identification of patients at risk of hemochromatosis because chelators are difficult to access for most patients. This was a prospective, descriptive and analytical study, on polytransfused sickle cell patients, followed at the transfusion therapy unit (UTT) of the CNTS of Abidjan, from 2010 to 2018. We included 78 sickle cell patients, all ages and genders who have received at least ten transfusions. The ferritinemia assay was carried out by ELISA. Transfusion exchange, with 59% of cases, was the most used mode of transfusion. The mean ferritinemia was 1719.19 ng / ml. Hyperferritinemia was found in 63% of patients. Most of the patients were on a long-term transfusion program with an average of 27.5 bags of red blood cell concentrates. Thirty-two patients had received at least 20 bags of red blood cell concentrates. We noted 21 patients treated, including 3 with deferoxamine and 18 treated with oral deferasirox. We have identified 33 sickle cell anemia patients at risk for hemochromatosis. The determinants of the risk of hemochromatosis were the high number of blood bags and the method of transfusion.
Sep 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-19-2994
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), India
Telomerase and SIRT1 (member of the sirtuin protein family) along with the lifestyle and diet are the major determinants of aging and its associated diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disorders. The study objective was to investigate the effect of Consciousness Energy Healing based novel test formulation in pre-adipocytes (3T3-L1) and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for anti-aging activity using SIRT1 and telomerase assay. The test formulation was divided into two parts. One portion was denoted as the untreated test item without any Biofield Energy Treatment, while the other portion was defined as the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment, which received the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The cell viability using MTT assay showed that the cell viability of 3T3-L1 and PBMCs cells was more than 70% indicating a safe and nontoxic profile. The experimental data in PBMCs cells showed that the Biofield Energy Treated Test formulation showed a significant improved telomerase activity by 39.25%, 20.86%, and 17.95% at concentrations 0.01, 5, and 100 µg/mL, respectively as compared with the untreated test formulation group. These results indicate that the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment would be the significant approach to prevent aging-related disorders such as decline cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, dementia, osteoarthritis, Alzheimer’s, hypertension, cancer, Parkinson's Disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Stress, Asthma, cataract, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), hearing loss and metabolic disorders.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-6655.jcap-18-2541
S.O OyamakinCorresponding author
Department of Statistics, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Many researchers have devoted considerable attention to the impact of individual-level factors on child mortality, but little is known about how family and community characteristics affect health of children. Trend in child mortality as well as its determinants, has long been the subject of academic and policy debates. In spite of this, the problem of child mortality remains as daunting as ever. In fact, advancement in medical sciences and the upsurge in information and telecommunication technology equipment have not significantly reduced child mortality in the country, unlike in the West. The Multilevel proportional hazards model for data that are hierarchically clustered at three levels was applied to the study of covariates of child mortality in Nigeria. This study merges two parallel developments of statistical tools for data analysis: statistical methods known as hazard models that are used for analyzing event-duration data and statistical methods for analyzing hierarchically clustered data known as multilevel models. These developments have rarely been integrated in research practice and the formalization and estimation of models for hierarchically clustered survival data remain largely uncharted. The model was estimated using the Newton-Raphsons numerical search approach. The model accounts for hierarchical clustering with three random effects or frailty effects. We assume that the random effects are independent and follow the Exponential and Weibull distribution. The results indicate that bio-demographic factors are more important in infancy while socioeconomic factors and household and environmental conditions have a greater effect in childhood. Furthermore, there is significant variation in child mortality risks even after controlling for measured determinants of mortality. Also, factors that fall under family and community level are more significant indicating that child survival is most controlled or determined by family and community factors and variables at the child level is not weighty. This suggests that there may exits unobserved or unobservable factors related to mortality.
Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2578-8590.ipj-18-2556
J. Fernandes RicardoCorresponding author
Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport (CIFI2D), Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
Swimming is a human activity that relies heavily on individual physiological capabilities. In fact, the swimming general performance equation, proposed several years ago by di Prampero 1, highlighted the energy expenditure, the propulsive efficiency and the hydrodynamic drag as its main determinants. Therefore, coaches and exercise physiologists have been proposing a number of testing protocols aiming to diagnose the swimmers physiological training status. However, most of these protocols are invasive, time consuming and costly (e.g. the oxygen uptake assessment and the blood lactate concentrations determination). In addition, some of these tests have some constraints, as the use of a cumbersome breathing valve for respiratory data collection (cf. 2) and the selection of an averaged value of blood lactate concentrations as an non individualized index of endurance performance 34.
Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-18-2464
Källestal CarinaCorresponding author
International Maternal and Child Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, SE 75185, Sweden.
Background Nicaragua has the highest prevalence of teenage pregnancies in Latin America. Knowledge regarding sexual and reproductive health plays an integral part in sexual behavior. The objective was to assess school going adolescents' knowledge about sexual and reproductive health and possible factors affecting it in the semi-rural community of Tololar, Nicaragua. Methods A cross-sectional study with a self-administered questionnaire on tablets was used for data collection. All 253 registered students at the school present at the time of fieldwork who gave written informed consent were deemed eligible for the study. A total of 225 participants in the ages of 11-19 years were included. Simple linear regression and multiple linear regression were performed analyzing the outcome knowledge. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results The general knowledge about sexual and reproductive health was moderate; however, knowledge gaps were found such as prevailing myths and poor knowledge regarding human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) transmission and contraceptive methods. Being female and single were significant negative determinants of knowledge (p-value < 0.01) and knowledge increased significantly with age (p-value < 0.05). School teachers, websites, social networks, and TV were the most frequently chosen sources of information on the topic. Conclusions Increased education on sexual and reproductive health with new interventions particularly for young females is recommended. Using IT-based materials as a complement may be an effective way to reach out to adolescents.
Mar 2018
Cordeiro de Souza WilliamCorresponding author
University of Contestado, UnC, Porto União, SC, Brazil
This article examines vitamin D insufficiency among adolescents in southern Brazil. It summarizes prevalence, potential determinants such as sun exposure and diet, and implications for bone health, calling for targeted prevention and screening strategies.
Jul 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-16-1060
Regassa NigatuCorresponding author
Visiting research scholar, University of Saskatchewan, SK, Saskatoon, Canada.
The low level of women autonomy and the key pre disposing factors affecting household decision makings among many population groups in Ethiopia is not well understood among scholars, and is less investigated. This study examined the status and the micro level factors associated with women autonomy in Sidama, the most populous zone in Southern Ethiopia. A simple random sampling technique (using the available complete listing of households) was used to select the 231 sample households from one of the districts of the zone. Sidama zone was selected due to its historically strong customs of patriarchal family system. Quantitative and qualitative data were obtained using structured questionnaire and focus group discussions. Household, women and husband characteristics were used as explanatory variables while women autonomy index, developed from a set of questions, served as the dependent variable. The study revealed that women’s decision makings on core household and personal issues were very low in the study population. The predicted probability, using Ordinary Least Square Regression shows that women’s education, alcohol intake by husbands, household size and land size were the main determinants of autonomy in decision makings in the study area. The study recommended that concerned bodies should capitalize on educating women and girls through both formal and informal learning platforms, promote income generation activities through entrepreneurship, increased access to property and economic assets, training, microfinance and markets.