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Asian Journal of Medicine and Health
Number of Followers: 1  Open Access journalISSN (Online) 2456-8414 Published by SCIENCEDOMAIN international  [66 journals]
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- Vitamin D: A Key Factor in Prostate Health
Authors: Lana Lekić, Ervin Alibegović, Jasna Rahimić, Bojan Pavlović, Ana Pavlović, Aida Hamzić-Mehmedbašić, Aldijana Mahmutović Milićević, Nehra Mosorović, Emil Mujkić, Asja Šarić, Dino Alibegović
Pages: 1 - 5
Abstract: This study examines the correlation between vitamin D levels and the severity of symptoms and quality of life in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A total of 125 participants were categorized based on their prostate symptoms (mild, moderate, and severe) and vitamin D levels (deficient, insufficient, and optimal). Among those with mild symptoms (n=60), 37.93% were vitamin D deficient, 44.11% had insufficient vitamin D, and 54.83% had optimal levels. For moderate symptoms (n=55), 44.82% were deficient, 47.05% had insufficient, and 41.93% had optimal vitamin D levels. In severe cases (n=10), 17.04% were deficient, 8.82% had insufficient, and 3.22% had optimal vitamin D levels. Overall, 23.02% of participants were deficient, 27.02% had insufficient, and 49.6% had optimal vitamin D levels. Quality of life assessments revealed that 56.8% of participants reported a good quality of life, with 46.66% of these being vitamin D deficient, 57.57% insufficient, and 61.29% optimal. An indifferent quality of life was noted by 29.6% of participants, with 28.57% deficient, 27.27% insufficient, and 29.03% optimal vitamin D levels. A very poor quality of life was reported by 13.6% of participants, with 21.42% deficient, 15.15% insufficient, and 9.67% optimal vitamin D levels. These results indicate a potential association between higher vitamin D levels and improved prostate symptoms and quality of life in BPH patients. Further research is needed to establish causality and underlying mechanisms.
PubDate: 2024-07-03
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81064
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Effect of Health Insurance on Inpatient Health Service Utilization among
Households Affected by Non-Communicable Diseases in Busia County, Kenya
Authors: Wilson Kemei, Jackline M. Nyaberi, Simon K. Ruttoh
Pages: 6 - 14
Abstract: Background: Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are increasingly becoming important agents of illness and premature deaths globally, killing up to 41 million people annually, most of which occur in LMICs. In Kenya, major NCDs are cardio-vascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, cancers and diabetes. They account for 50% of all inpatient morbidities and 39% of all hospital mortalities. Patients afflicted with NCDs go through expensive treatment regiments, restraining them from utilizing available care. NCDs deepen inequality and are major drivers of unending poverty. World leaders resolved to deal with the devastating consequences of NCDs as a developmental challenge under SDGs. Kenya successively reformed its National Health Insurer to include a package that address the blight of NCDs and transform it into a primary enabler for achieving UHC. There is however, evidence suggesting that enrolment in health insurance (HI) does not necessarily guarantee inpatient utilization of NCDs care. This study examined the effect of HI on inpatient health service utilization among households with NCDs. Methods: A quasi experimental design was conducted among eligible households with HI cover and those without, involving a representative sample of 350 households. Interviewers conducted interviews at baseline and after one year among household heads. Results: Utilization of Inpatient NCDs care improved 1.256 (95% CI= 0.965-1.634), times more among insured households, (P=0.04). Conclusion: HI improves inpatient utilization of NCDs care. To accelerate progress towards UHC, national government should expand HI program to all counties, improve awareness of cover package entitlements and remove payment preconditions for inpatient procedures. County government to ensure health systems at primary level are well equipped to tackle inpatient NCDs care needs.
PubDate: 2024-07-09
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81065
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Analytics: From Diagnosis
to Treatment Optimization
Authors: Tushar Khinvasara, Kimberly Morton Cuthrell, Nikolaos Tzenios
Pages: 15 - 31
Abstract: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare analytics has brought about a transformation in the medical field of diagnosis and treatment optimization. AI technologies have unmatched abilities in processing substantial amounts of medical data and extracting valuable insights by combining big data analytics and advanced machine learning algorithms. AI algorithms provide healthcare professionals with enhanced accuracy and speed in diagnosing illnesses, predicting patient results, and tailoring treatment plans across the entire healthcare journey. This abstract explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize healthcare analytics in various areas such as genomics, electronic health records (EHRs), medical imaging, and clinical decision support systems. Healthcare providers can improve healthcare services by optimizing workflows, enhancing patient outcomes, and using AI-driven initiatives to make services more accessible and high in quality. In order to ensure ethical and accountable use of AI in healthcare, it is necessary to address problems such as algorithm bias, data privacy worries, and regulatory obstacles. Despite these challenges, the ongoing advancement of AI technologies has vast potential to transform patient care models and healthcare delivery methods.
PubDate: 2024-07-10
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81066
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- The Liver of Young and Old Female Rats Exhibits Heightened Susceptibility
to Dichlorvos Exposure
Authors: Serah Funke Ige, Bolade S. Olateju, Salami Kauthar, Andrew Sharon Julius, Amusan Joshua Tolulope
Pages: 32 - 44
Abstract: Exposure to industrial and agricultural environmental contaminants has been shown to produce deleterious effects on different organs of the human body. Dichlorvos [O, O-dimethyl O-(2,2-dichlorovinyl) phosphate, DDVP] is a major organophosphate pesticide used mostly in developing countries for domestic and agricultural insect control. The toxic effects of DDVP have been reported on many organs. However, its gender and age-dependent effects on the liver are yet to be documented. This study investigated the influence of gender and age on liver damage in male and female rats exposed to DDVP. Animals were divided into control and experimental groups with age and gender classification. Using age, rats were classified into young, middle-aged, and old age groups. Rats in the experimental groups were exposed to DDVP from 8 am to 12 noon for five weeks. Rats were subsequently euthanized and liver tissues were harvested for biochemical assay. Glutamyl transferase (GGT), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), Albumin, and conjugated bilirubin were assayed using ELISA kits. Statistical analysis was done using two-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey post-Hoc test at significance level of p<0.05. Our study found that DDVP exposure caused liver damage in female rats only with significant elevation in liver enzymes such as ALP, ALT, AST, and LDH. However, the male rats showed more resistance to DDVP exposure. The liver damage observed in female rats was age-dependent, with young and old rats showing higher susceptibility compared to middle-aged female rats. Nutritional and pharmacological strategies are recommended to mitigate the effect of DDVP exposure, particularly in populations at higher risk of exposure.
PubDate: 2024-07-10
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81067
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Occupational Hazard Exposure: Assessment of Hypogonadism and Dyslipidemia
in House and Automobile Painters in Ilorin, Nigeria
Authors: Ganiyu O. Adeosun, Aminat T. Akorede, Remilekun Akinrinmade, David D; Ajayi, Kabiru A Ajibola, Abdullahi O. Olawuyi, Johnson K Fadairo
Pages: 45 - 55
Abstract: Aims: To investigate the impact of human exposure to the constituents of paint on serum reproductive hormone and Lipid profile among occupationally exposed House and Automobile spray painters in Yakuba district of Ilorin East Local Government area of Kwara State. Nigeria. Study Design: Experimental./ Cross sectional. Place and Duration of Study: Yakuba district of Ilorin East Local Government area of Kwara State. Nigeria, 6months; between July 23 and January 2024. Methodology: 120 male participants were recruited for this study with the mean age 33.15±0.86 years. The participants included 40 automobile painters, 40 house painters, and male artisans who were not painters and served as the control group .Venous Blood samples were collected from both the test and control subjects for the measurement of serum lipids and testosterone using reference techniques. Results: Total Cholesterol, Triglyceride, HD and LDL cholesterol were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the exposed automobile and house painters than the control groups. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between the serum lipid values of the automobile and the house painters. The serum testosterone level in both group of exposed painters was statistically similar(P>0.05). There was no significant correlation (P>0.05) between the frequency of cars or houses painted per month and work experience with the lipid profile parameters and testosterone levels in the occupationally exposed house and automobile painters. Conclusion: Occupational exposure to some chemical constituents of paint is associated with dyslipidemia and decrease serum testosterone which may precipitate adverse ill health among the painters.
PubDate: 2024-07-16
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81068
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Perception and Acceptance of Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine by Mothers in
Owerri, Nigeria: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Joseph Ezeogu, Kingsley Asinobi, Chidimma Noela Okeji, Chioma Theresa Chimah
Pages: 56 - 64
Abstract: Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among female children 9-14 years is critical to reducing the burden of HPV-related cancers in Nigeria. We assessed caregivers’ perception and acceptance of HPV vaccination for their wards; using a structured, pretested, self-administered questionnaire in a face-to-face interview among caregivers attending a well-child/immunization clinic in Owerri, Nigeria. Methodology: Participants were recruited by convenience sampling method between August and October 2023.We analysed the cross-sectional data from 267 caregivers of caregivers aged 20–57years in a Nigerian Teaching hospital. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis to investigate the factors associated with HPV vaccination uptake. Among the respondents, 132 (49.4%) of them had heard about HPV, and 52 (19.5%) stated that it could prevent cervical cancer. Bivariate analysis, demonstrated that tertiary education in the mother (OR 2.25, 95%CI 1.27 to 4.02) and father (OR 2.25, 95%CI 1.28 to 3.85) were significantly associated with their knowledge of HPV vaccine and their wards’ probability of taking the HPV vaccine. Participants’ intention to give HPV vaccination to their children was 77.5%. Our findings suggest that interventions tailored to enhance education and support of caregivers would significantly increase HPV vaccination among females in Nigeria. Conclusion: Being well-educated appears to guarantee good knowledge of the HPV vaccine, but not HPV prevention of cervical cancer role. Our respondents’ intention to have the HPV vaccine administered to their children was high. Concerted efforts need to be made by government and health workers to create awareness about HPV infection, HPV vaccine amongst caregivers to enhance HPV vaccine uptake.
PubDate: 2024-07-17
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81069
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Efficacy of Nitrofurantoin and Fosfomycin against Extended Spectrum Beta
Lactamase Producing Uropathogens in the Era of Antibiotic Resistance: A
Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ankita Dhaiya, Pragati Grover, Bharti Arora, Deepti Jain, Sonia Chugh
Pages: 65 - 71
Abstract: Background: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections that require medical care. It accounts for 25% of all infections. Limited number of antibiotics are available for the treatment of UTI due to increased resistance among uropathogens. Aim of the study is to determine the causative agents of UTI and to evaluate the action of nitrofurantoin and fosfomycin against Enterobacteriaceae in ESBL (Extended spectrum beta-lactamase) producing strains. Material and Methods: It is a retrospective study carried out in the department of Microbiology, MAMC, Agroha. Data related to urine culture and antibiotic susceptibility pattern from January 2023 to December 2023 was taken from the records and analysed. Results: Out of 1648 urine samples processed, 569 showed significant bacterial growth. Escherichia coli (45.3%) was the most common isolate followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (20.5%), Enterococcus (17.2%), Staphylococcus aureus (5%). Among the gram negative bacilli, 40% were ESBL producers. These ESBL producing strains were 99% sensitive to Fosfomycin and 75% sensitive to Nitrofurantoin. Conclusion: The study revealed that Nitrofurantoin and Fosfomycin are very effective oral drugs for empirical treatment against gram negative uropathogens causing UTI, especially multi drug resistant strains.
PubDate: 2024-07-17
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81070
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Development of Digital Surveillance for the COVID-19 and Dengue
Co-Epidemic (SMART-CODEN) in Indonesia
Authors: Sang Gede Purnama, Made Subrata, Pasek Kardiwinata
Pages: 72 - 81
Abstract: Background: The concurrent occurrence of COVID-19 and Dengue is a significant public health issue that requires attention. Developing a digital-based integrated surveillance system is crucial for data collection. Objective: This project aims to create a digital surveillance system, SMART-CODEN, specifically designed for monitoring the co-epidemic of COVID-19 and Dengue. SMART-CODEN is a cutting-edge surveillance system that integrates real-time data analysis and case mapping to effectively and efficiently monitor and analyze the progress of these two illnesses. Method: This study employs the SLDC framework, utilizing an Agile Model approach. The agile model is a versatile and incremental approach to software development. During the needs analysis stage, extensive interviews were carried out with healthcare professionals, technological innovators, and other relevant parties to comprehensively understand the requirements and difficulties in COVID-19 and Dengue surveillance. The acquired data is utilized to develop systems that can identify, monitor, and conduct precise analysis early. Findings: The research findings demonstrate that SMART-CODEN can enhance the velocity and precision of early identification of COVID-19 and Dengue cases compared to conventional monitoring approaches. This approach also enables health authorities to take faster and more focused preventive measures and promotes decision-making based on data. Implementing SMART-CODEN can also foster active community engagement in reporting symptoms and cases, mitigating the disease transmission rate. SMART-CODEN specifically decreased the time it takes to identify anything by 40%, attained a detection accuracy rate of 95%, enhanced the speed at which health authorities respond by 35%, and raised community reporting by 50%. Conclusion: In summary, this study determines that creating the SMART-CODEN design results in a successful and original surveillance system that may be used for controlling infectious diseases.
PubDate: 2024-07-18
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81071
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Central Hypopituitarism with Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency after
Postpartum Hemorrhage in a 41 Years Old Female Patient
Authors: Samar Soliman
Pages: 82 - 85
Abstract: The case about female presented with chronic fatigue for more than 1 year with progressive weight loss and her basic blood investigations were normal and mis diagnosed as gastritis due to H-PYLORI Infection with multiple courses of antibiotics but after careful history taking a relation made between onset of her symptoms and her last complicated childbirth followed by failed lactation , so focused laboratory investigations requested to rule out pituitary infarction and secondary adrenal insufficiency which was confirmed and patient started to get the proper treatment and follow up with much improvement later on. In conclusion, this case demonstrates the typical symptoms and difficulties in diagnosing Sheehan syndrome. While H. pylori infection can contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms, a thorough history taking is crucial to differentiate it from other causes of chronic fatigue and weight loss. This comprehensive approach can prevent unnecessary treatment and ensure timely diagnosis of potentially more serious conditions. It is crucial to regularly follow up and monitor patients with Sheehan syndrome to effectively administer hormone replacement therapy and identify any developing endocrine issues.
PubDate: 2024-07-19
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81072
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Phytochemical Screening, In vitro Antioxidant Capacity and
Nephro-protective Effects of Combined Extract of Psidium guajava and
Carica papaya Leaves in Rats Intoxicated with Cadmium
Authors: O. C. Orororo, O. Efekemo, O. B. Odeghe, P. D. Clark, E. P. Awhin, E. O. Egbune, I. O. Efejene
Pages: 86 - 97
Abstract: Aim: Toxic effects arising from heavy metals and other contaminants in the environment are presently been tackled by the use of medicinal plants. Thus, this study evaluated the protective effects of combined extract of Psidium guajava and Carica papaya leaves on kidney injury occasioned by cadmium (Cd) toxicity. Materials and Methods: Phytochemical investigation of the combined extract revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, triterpene, steroids, alkaloids, cardiac glycoside, anthocyanins, and anthraquinone and the the extract displayed excellent antioxidant capacity in vitro. Eighteen adult female rats were divided into three groups: Group 1 (Control, received feed and water only); Group 2 (Cadmium, received single dose of cadmium, 30mg/kg body weight at the start of the experiment) and Group 3 (Cadmium + combined leaf extract, received cadmium as in group 2 above and 200mg/kg body weight of extract, daily for two weeks). Results: Intoxication with Cd causes significantly (p<0.05) increased in the levels of lipid peroxidation and in the activity of glutathione peroxidase. Cd intoxication also depleted glutathione (GSH), super oxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) reserves and brought about a significant increase in serum urea, creatinine, sodium and potassium. However a significant (p<0.05) normalization in the levels of GSH, SOD, CAT, urea, creatinine, sodium and potassium was observed in Cd-intoxicated rats administered the extracts as compared to the control (untreated rats). Conclusion: The results reveal that Cd causes nephro-toxicities manifested via lipid peroxidation, increase in serum levels of urea, creatinine, sodium and potassium ions and that the combined extract of Psidium guajava and Carica papaya leaves possess adequate antioxidant power against Cd-induced nephro-toxic effects.
PubDate: 2024-07-25
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81073
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Narrative Review on Complicated Cholecystitis: An Update on Management
Authors: Kumar H.R
Pages: 98 - 105
Abstract: Complicated cholecystitis is a term used to describe the local complications that occur in acute cholecystitis. It included gangrenous, empyema and perforation of the gallbladder. The diagnosis of these conditions involves clinical, laboratory investigations and imaging modalities. The treatment of complicated cholecystitis is by performing a cholecystectomy, either by an open or laparoscopic method. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with a high conversion rate due to inflammation of the gallbladder which makes dissection difficult. Subtotal cholecystectomy is an alternative surgical procedure in patients who have adhesions at the calot’s triangle. We have conducted this review article to look at the types of complicated cholecystitis, and the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.
PubDate: 2024-07-25
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81074
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Comparative Assessment of Histopathological and Biochemical Indices of
Renal Function in Alloxan-induced Male and Female Diabetic Rats
Authors: Iwuji Joy Chidinma, Nwanjo Harrison Ugochukwu, Nwosu Dennis C, Osuegbu Mercy Chukwujindu, Ohaeri Evangelina Ozoemena
Pages: 106 - 116
Abstract: It has been observed that alloxan-induced diabetes causes free radical production, which ultimately damages the pancreatic β-cells and impact several organs especially the kidney. This study was a comparative assessment of histopathological and biochemical indices of renal function in alloxan-induced male and female diabetic rats. A total of twenty-four (24) male and female albino wistar rats were divided into five groups (6 rats per group): normal control female (group A), normal control male (group B), diabetic female (group C) and diabetic male (group D). Diabetes mellitus was induced in the rats via intraperitoneal injection of alloxan at a dose of 120 mg/kg bwt. The rats were observed for 48 hours and were allowed access to water and feed as much as they wanted and were then sacrificed 48 hours post alloxan-induction. Serum urea, creatinine and electrolyte profile (sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate) were determined using standard laboratory methods while the histology of the kidney determined by H and E technique. The histopathological section of the group C rats showed thickened glomeruli which are closely adherent to the bowman’s capsular space. There was interstitial fibrosis, hyaline changes, epithelial cellular vacuolar degeneration and arteriopathy. The group D rats showed milder histological alterations of glomeruli and arterioles. There was significantly increased mean serum Urea, sodium, chloride and bicarbonate levels in the female diabetic rats than in female control (p=0.000; 0.020; 0.009; 0.027) respectively while potassium was significantly increased in male diabetic rats than in male control (p=0.018). Also, the mean serum urea and creatinine level was significantly increased in female diabetic rats compared to male diabetic rats (p=0.017; 0.010) respectively. This study has revealed the variable alterations in kidney histology and functions due to alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus. The kidney functions of male and female wistar rats with alloxan-induced diabetes was found to exhibit varying degrees of significant histopathological and biochemical changes.
PubDate: 2024-07-25
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81075
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- The Relationship of Tofu Coagulants and Irritant Contact Dermatitis in
Tofu Maker at Serang Banten Indonesia
Authors: Desdiani Desdiani, Ari Estuningtyas, Amalia Fitri Hakim
Pages: 117 - 123
Abstract: Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) is the second most prevalent occupational ailment, following musculoskeletal disease. This condition occurs due to direct exposure to irritants, either acutely or persistently. The primary irritants responsible for contact dermatitis are acids or bases. The individuals most susceptible to contact dermatitis are the staff working in the tofu sector. This is because coagulants come into direct touch with personnel during the tofu production process. The study design is an observational analytic approach utilizing the cross-sectional method, which involves a questionnaire. According to this research, the prevalence of ICD among tofu makers in Serang is 59.8%. 85.9% of the workers in this industry are male. The study found that 79.3% of workers had an ICD, 16.3% had a history of atopic conditions, 6.5% always used Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), 93.5% had adequate personal hygiene, and 55.4% had a strong awareness of the ICD. The chi-square data analysis revealed that exposure to tofu coagulants is a causative factor instead of the protective factor for ICD, with a p-value of less than 0.001 and an odds ratio of 0.164. There is a correlation between the coagulants used in tofu production and the incidence of ICD in tofu manufacturers in Serang city.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81076
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Effect of Two Regimens of Rectal Diclofenac on Post Adenotonsillectomy
Pain in Children
Authors: Chinedu Paul Iwuoha, Alfred Tamunoigbanibo Aggo, Uyoata Udo Johnson
Pages: 124 - 133
Abstract: Aim: To determine the post adenotonsillectomy analgesic effect of single versus divided dose regimen of rectal diclofenac in children. Study Design: Prospective, randomized, double blind, comparative study. Place and Duration of Study: University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Port Harcourt, Nigeria, from June to November, 2023. Methodology: Following ethical approval (Ethical reference UPTH/ADM/90/S.II/VOL.XI/1285, granted 25th November, 2021) and parental consent, 50 children, of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class I and II, aged 1 – 6 years, were randomized into groups I and II, of 25 each. All children had intratracheal general anaesthesia induced with propofol, followed by atracurium, fentanyl, and maintained by isoflurane in 100% Oxygen. Group I received suppository diclofenac 2 - 3mg/kg rectally, in two divided doses 12 hours apart (first dose at induction), while group II received suppository diclofenac 2 - 3mg/kg rectally, as single dose (at induction). Pain was assessed using the Face, Leg, Arm, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) scale. The time to first analgesic request, (TTFAR) was defined as the period from rectal drug administration to pain score of ≥ 4. Analgesic was given when FLACC score was ≥ 4. Results: All 50 subjects completed the study. The mean TTFAR (hours) was significantly more prolonged (7.82±1.18) in group I compared to 5.42±1.19 observed in group II, P = 0.0081, with significantly greater 24-hour analgesic consumption in group II, P = 0.0044, and 0.0003. Conclusion: Suppository diclofenac administered rectally in two divided doses achieved significantly more prolonged postoperative analgesia compared to single equivalent dose.
PubDate: 2024-08-02
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81077
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Telemedicine: Benefits and Pitfalls
Authors: Ganesh Ramachandran, Aung Ko Ko Min
Pages: 134 - 138
Abstract: The concept of providing healthcare remotely for patients is not new. It is a part of everyday medical practice and complements the traditional face-to-face encounters between doctors and patients on a regular basis. However, with the disruption of traditional healthcare delivery between 2020 and 2022 due to the COVID 19 pandemic telemedicine has become the focus as a method of healthcare delivery that could in some cases replace the traditional time-tested method of physical doctor patient encounters. This paper aims to look at the advantages and disadvantages of telemedicine, in the provision of quality healthcare without compromising patient safety and guaranteeing good outcomes via a review of the literature. This reviews the aspects of good practice that must be adhered to in the implementation of telemedicine.
PubDate: 2024-08-02
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81078
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- E-cigarettes Use among People Living with HIV: Prevalence, Health Impacts,
and Behavioral Insights
Authors: Samia Amin, Tasmia Afrin, Sharmin Rahman
Pages: 139 - 146
Abstract: Background: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have gained popularity as an alternative to traditional tobacco smoking among people living with HIV (PLHIV). While e-cigarettes may offer harm reduction benefits, their impact on PLHIV is not fully understood. Aim: This study aims to synthesize current research on e-cigarette use among PLHIV, focusing on prevalence, health impacts, mental conditions, perceptions, and attitudes. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases was conducted. This search included studies from January 2003 to April 2024. We included observational and experimental studies that reported on e-cigarette use among adult PLHIV. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts, with data extraction using a standardized form. Results: Out of 33 initially identified articles, 4 met the inclusion criteria. The studies, conducted in the USA between 2019 and 2023, included 15,617 adults, with approximately 29.29% smokers and 3.08% e-cigarette users. Findings indicated significant e-cigarette use among PLHIV, ranging from 4% to 11% for daily users. Demographic factors influencing e-cigarette use included younger age, male gender, non-Hispanic white ethnicity, and higher education levels. Dual use of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes was common. Mental health issues, such as depression and panic disorder, were more prevalent among e-cigarette users. Health benefits included reduced cigarette consumption and improved respiratory symptoms. Implications: The findings highlight the complex interplay between e-cigarette use, HIV progression, mental health, and overall well-being in PLHIV. These insights are crucial for developing targeted interventions and public health strategies to reduce smoking-related harm in this population. Conclusion: E-cigarette use among PLHIV is prevalent and associated with both benefits and risks. Continued research is essential to monitor long-term health impacts and inform evidence-based guidelines and interventions tailored to the needs of PLHIV.
PubDate: 2024-08-03
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81079
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Socio-demographic Determinants of Healthcare Utilization among Adults in
Rural Communities of Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Samuel; G. K., Ogar, Okpe
Pages: 147 - 157
Abstract: This study investigated the determinants of HealthCare Utilization among Adults in Rural Communities in Benue State. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. Population for the study consisted of 4,253,641 adults in rural communities in Benue State. A sample size of 612 adults was selected by a multistage sampling procedure. The instrument for data collection was a self-structure questionnaire with reliability coefficients of 0.82. Data analysis was done using the statistical package for social sciences. Percentage and Mean (x) sores were used in analyzing the demographic variables and research questions, while Spearman rank order was used in testing the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study showed that socio-demographic variables such as age, educational level, marital status and location had no significant difference in the utilization of health services (\(\bar{X}\)>2.50) while religion have significant difference (\(\bar{X}\)<2.50) in the utilization of health care service in the study area. It was concluded that sociodemographic variables have influence utilization of health care services among adult was high. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that, Government need to improve on accessibility to health care facilities by building additional health care facilities where distance will be closer to the people.
PubDate: 2024-08-05
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81080
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Knowledge Level of Caregivers on Immunization for Children (under-5 Years)
in Nigeria
Authors: Ngozi G. Orofuke, Ayirioritse Peace Ighosewe, Uzochukwu Ofonakara, Christiana I. Elusoji, Charles C. Ofilia, Michael O. Otutua, Eugene O. Ohanme
Pages: 158 - 173
Abstract: Background: Families, especially mothers are the major role players with regard to their children’s immunization. This study empirically Knowledge Level of Caregivers on Immunization for Children under-5 years in Delta North Senatorial District of Delta State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A well self-structured questionnaires drawn from caregivers of under-5 children who were disposed to immunization in the nine (9) local government areas in Delta North senatorial district was used. However, the questionnaires were distributed to 3843 caregivers across the Nine (9) local government areas under study but the researcher was able to successfully retrieve 3624, representing 94% of the sample size.. Two major hypotheses were tested using analysis of variance (ANOVA) regression analysis with the aid of SPSS. Results: The data showed that 3030, representing about 85.0% of the respondents were mothers while the remaining 544 (15.0%) were male (fathers) with under-5 children in Delta North Senatorial District The findings shows that the knowledge level of caregivers, and enablers are respectively statistically significant in the immunization of under-5 children in Delta North senatorial district of Delta State, Nigeria. Conclusion: It is therefore concluded that for the immunization to becomes successfully performed caregivers must have basic or advanced education and training to avoid the an increased mortality rate of death to children below five (5) years old.
PubDate: 2024-08-06
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81081
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
- Anaemia and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Brief Review on the Direction of
Their Relationship
Authors: Prajeesha. K, Swathi. D, Harsha. V
Pages: 174 - 181
Abstract: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 10% of the adult population worldwide. Anaemia is the common complication in CKD, which severely impacts patient quality of life and increases the risk of cardiovascular complications. The primary cause of anaemia in CKD patients is insufficient production of erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone essential for red blood cell production, due to impaired kidney function. Other contributing factors include disruptions in iron metabolism, chronic inflammation, and elevated hepcidin levels, which hinder iron absorption and availability. Anaemia exacerbates symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and cognitive impairment in CKD patients, significantly diminishing their daily functioning and overall well-being. Effective management of anaemia in CKD patients necessitates a comprehensive approach involving regular monitoring of haemoglobin and iron levels, timely administration of treatments such as EPO and intravenous iron, and addressing underlying causes. This review provides an overall overview of the pathophysiological connections, clinical implications, diagnosis, and management strategies for anaemia in CKD patients, highlighting the need for ongoing research and integrated care approaches.
PubDate: 2024-08-06
DOI: 10.9734/ajmah/2024/v22i81082
Issue No: Vol. 22, No. 8 (2024)
