20 Articles
Abdullahi Adamu Jibir, Ali Abba Jime, Ali Goni Sanda, Bukar Mustapha, Maimuna Gubo Makinta
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global public health challenge, and the food chain is increasingly recognized as an important pathway for transmission of resistant microorganisms from animals to humans. In India, extensive use of antimicrobials for therapeutic, prophylactic, and growth promoting purposes in food producing animals has raised serious food safety and public health concerns. The aim of this narrative review is to compile data from 2010–2025 on veterinary antimicrobials use, AMR trends and antimicrobial residues in milk, meat, poultry, eggs, and aquaculture products (including the environment) in India, and highlight gaps in surveillance and policy within a One Health approach. Evidence published shows that high levels of antimicrobial resistant pathogens (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus) occur in animal-derived food with public health risks from both consumption and handling for example, MRSA was detected in 46% raw milk samples and multidrug resistance of over 60% in some poultry isolates). The scaling-up of antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary practice, improved hygiene and biosecurity in the food chain, increasing integrative surveillance for AMR and better intersectoral coordination is essential to protect public health and ensure food safety in India.
Ajayi, Felix Oluwafemi, Amos, Favour Chiamaka, Aremu, Saad Bolakale, Erubu, Saad Ayodeji, Makanjuola, Alfred Banuso
Background A wide range of side effects have been reported since the discovery of antipsychotics, amongst which are the extrapyramidal side effects that occur as a result of excessive blockade of D2 receptors in the brain. Parkinsonism resulting from use of antipsychotics or other psychotropic medications characteristically presents with rigidity, bradykinesia and tremors, and this has significantly added to the burden of illness in patients and worsened burden of care in caregivers. Case presentation We present the case of a 29year old man who was previously managed with first generation antipsychotics for a psychotic disorder at a peripheral centre but left on high dose of the medication after remission. He presented at our facility with severe features of drug-induced parkinsonism without symptoms of psychosis. He was managed on admission for four weeks and only became free of features of parkinsonism after six weeks of treatment with anticholinergic medication. Conclusion Asides from the burden of primary illness, antipsychotic-induced parkinsonism causes additional distress and impairment to patients as it was with the reported case. However, adequate anticipation and management of attendant EPSE is very crucial in reducing this additional morbidity and burden associated with managing patients with neuro-psychiatric disorders.
C. Keerthana, Devi. K, Dr. Suja Suresh
Renal pelviectasis is characterized by dilatation of the renal pelvis and is commonly identified during antenatal screening or in the neonatal period. Although most cases are benign and resolve spontaneously, renal pelviectasis may sometimes indicate underlying urinary tract abnormalities such as ureteropelvic junction obstruction or vesicoureteral reflux. Early diagnosis, appropriate investigation, and continuous follow-up are essential to prevent long-term renal complications. This case report describes the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and conservative management of a neonate diagnosed with renal pelviectasis.
C. Keerthana, Devi. K, Dr. Suja Suresh
Renal pelviectasis is characterized by dilatation of the renal pelvis and is commonly identified during antenatal screening or in the neonatal period. Although most cases are benign and resolve spontaneously, renal pelviectasis may sometimes indicate underlying urinary tract abnormalities such as ureteropelvic junction obstruction or vesicoureteral reflux. Early diagnosis, appropriate investigation, and continuous follow-up are essential to prevent long-term renal complications. This case report describes the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and conservative management of a neonate diagnosed with renal pelviectasis
Collins Kipkemoi
Hypertension is one of the non-communicable diseases that is on the rise, also referred to as a 'silent' chronic killer. It is defined as a systemic blood pressure of more than 140mmHg systolic and more than 90mmHg diastolic. Education level and accessibility to health care are vital risk factors that have a direct impact on hypertension. Awareness enables an individual to diminish the myths and misconceptions about hypertension, which include the use of herbal medications for hypertension. This review sought to evaluate the effects of healthcare access and education as risk factors for hypertension among male patients aged 35-70 who attend government health centers in Kenya. Primary studies were reviewed using four databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct). This was done systematically by employing the illustration by Arksey, O'Malley, and Levac. The scoping review adopted a broad literature search that allowed the transparency, reproducibility, and a state of reliable literature. A narrative synthesis was used to describe the included studies and results. Eleven primary studies were found to be eligible for this review. These articles met all the inclusion criteria. The studies were obtained from Western (n=3), Nairobi (n=2), Rift Valley (n=2), Coastal (n=1), Central (n=1), Eastern (n=0), North Eastern (n=0), and all regions (n=2). The studies' results picked out pertinent factors. Group medical visits are lower in both males and females, which influences disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Screening also came out as another very significant reason for hypertension; impaired screening results in delayed diagnosis of hypertension. Education has a direct impact on hypertension, i.e., the more educated one is, the lower the chances of becoming hypertensive. For male participants who took the screening positively and were started on treatment, the blood pressure was well controlled, and linkage to the nearby health facilities was done. Awareness about hypertension leads to early detection and, as a result, early initiation of therapy. Linkage to the facilities ensures that the clients are followed up on keenly to avoid late treatment. Encouraging the population to obtain health insurance is essential to making sure that they obtain access to health care.
Afunwa Emmanuel C., Greg Wale Williams, Omobitan Olumide
Introduction: Pharmaceutical advertising plays a critical role in shaping medicine use, prescribing behaviour, and public perceptions of health. While ethical promotion can support informed decision-making and rational medicine use, inappropriate or misleading advertising poses significant risks to patient safety and public health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This narrative review examines the ethical dimensions, media practices, and regulatory oversight of pharmaceutical advertising in Nigeria, with a focus on implications for public health and policy. Methods: A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature, regulatory instruments, policy documents, and grey literature were conducted to synthesise evidence on ethical standards governing pharmaceutical promotion, dominant advertising strategies across traditional and digital media, and the effectiveness of existing regulatory frameworks. International ethical benchmarks, including World Health Organization and International Pharmaceutical Federation guidance, were used to assess Nigerian practices within a global context. Key Findings/Discussion: The review finds persistent ethical challenges in pharmaceutical advertising in Nigeria, including exaggerated therapeutic claims, inadequate risk disclosure, exploitation of consumer vulnerability, and increasing use of digital and influencer-driven marketing with limited regulatory oversight. Although Nigeria has a multi-agency regulatory architecture involving NAFDAC, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, institutional overlaps, enforcement gaps, and limited capacity, particularly in digital media monitoring undermine effective governance. These challenges contribute to irrational medicine use, self-medication, antimicrobial misuse, and erosion of public trust. Conclusion: The review highlights the need for stronger inter-agency coordination, clearer regulatory mandates, enhanced digital surveillance mechanisms, professional training, and public media literacy. Strengthening ethical pharmaceutical advertising is essential to safeguarding public health, promoting rational medicine use, and advancing medicines governance in Nigeria and comparable LMIC settings.
Anas Yau, Asiya Imam Umar, Balkisu Mainasara Mikailu, Hafsat Malami Dogondaji, Hassan Sani, Muhammad Bello Tambari, Yazid Muhammad Bukkuyum
Fumonisins are mycotoxins produced primarily by Fusarium species that frequently contaminate maize and other cereal crops, posing significant food safety and public health concerns worldwide. Chronic exposure to fumonisins, particularly fumonisin B₁ (FB₁), has been associated with adverse human health outcomes, including disruption of sphingolipid metabolism, oxidative stress, immunotoxicity, neural tube defects, and increased risk of oesophageal cancer in high-exposure populations. This review synthesizes scientific knowledge on the sources, global occurrence, and epidemiology of fumonisin contamination, highlighting environmental and storage factors that influence toxin production. The key molecular mechanisms of fumonisin toxicity, especially inhibition of ceramide synthase and consequent alterations in membrane lipid homeostasis, are discussed alongside evidence from epidemiological and experimental studies. Advances in fumonisin detection methods and international regulatory guidelines established by WHO and EFSA are also reviewed. The paper emphasizes the need for continued surveillance, improved food safety practices, and effective mitigation strategies, particularly in regions where maize-based diets predominate.
Ziyad Hazim Ibrahim
Introduction: Genital warts “caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)” represent a common public sexually transmitted infection with notable psychosocial and public health considerations. Those infections are considered as important causes for both the genital warts and cervical cancers in the female population, however recent studies have demonstrated their role in the anogenital warts and malignancies in men also. Transmission of those infections can be effectively prevented with vaccination; however it is not yet part of the Essential Programme of Immunization (EPI) in Iraq. Understanding the characteristics of patients with genital warts could offer insights into disease patterns, delays in care (and its possible public health sequences), and the need for probable targeted public health interventions. Aim: To describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of male patients with genital warts and their possible public health implications. Methods: A descriptive cross- sectional study conducted on data of male patients attending a dermatology clinic in Baghdad/ Rusafa from Jan.2024 to Jun.2025 and diagnosed clinically with genital warts. Data included age, marital status, number of lesions, the duration of infection, and history of seeking health care. Analysis was performed by SPSS, applying chi-square test with a significance level ≤0.05 for the qualitative values, while means and other statistics were used for quantitative ones. Results: The study included 47 male patients aged between 22 to 53 years (mean age: 35.9), the age groups 26-35 and 36-45 years accounted for 46.8% and 27.7% respectively. Among all patients, 63.9% were unmarried. Multiple genital wart lesions were present in 59.6% of cases, and 74.5% did not receive or seek a prior health care or treatment. Infection duration was less than six months in 55.3% of patients. There was a significant association between infection duration and both the presence of multiple lesions and a previous history of seeking health care, with a p-value of < 0.001 for both variables. Conclusions: (1.) About three- quarters of patients were 26-45 years old, about two- thirds of them were not married, and most of them presented with multiple untreated lesions, this is highlighting the need to prioritize this age group in any future public preventive health strategies. (2.) Most patients did not seek a previous health care or treatment, indicating possible delayed diagnosis and limited prior medical intervention which could lead to further public wide transmission for both sexes in the community. (3.) The duration of infection was significantly associated with both the number of lesions and prior health care seeking, in which the longer duration was linked to clinical progression (multiple lesions) and to previous attempts at seeking medical care which appeared to be ineffective in resolving the condition. Recommendations: (1.) Introduce HPV vaccination into Iraqi EPI (initially could be targeting adolescent females) to reduce the community transmission of HPV and its public health consequences, and to decrease the incidence of genital warts and their complications in both sexes. (2.) Raise public awareness about HPV transmission, symptoms, and preventive strategies, particularly among men in their 20s to 40s, with integration of HPV- related services in routine sexual health care and public health programmes. (3.) Encourage early medical consultation for genital lesions to reduce the duration of untreated infection and the risk of public transmission among both sexes.
Gyar S. D., Ngwai Y. B, Tubi, A. O.
In light of the escalating issue of tuberculosis resistance, it is imperative to consistently evaluate and examine therapeutic strategies. This study focus on genotypic and phenotypic detection of multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis among HIV patients attending tuberculosis reference centres in Northwest, Nigeria. A total of 503 sputum samples were collected aseptically among three referral facilities in Northwest using random sampling method. Molecular drug susceptibility testing was performed using Geno Type® MTBD Rplus assay. The overall prevalence was 4.3 %. The highest prevalence in relation to state was observed from Katsina (22.2 %) and the lowest was from Sokoto (3.6 %). The highest prevalence was observed among male patients (4.8%) while the female patients (3.4%). Age 66-70 yrs recorded the highest prevalence (100 %) and the lowest was 36-40 yrs and 41-45yrs (4.4 %). The highest resistance patterns were isolates from Kebbi were resistance to INH+ RIF+ FLQ (50.0 %) and the lowest was from Kaduna INH+ AMG (20.0 %). Routine TB testing among HIV patients must be improved to guide co-management
Olu Akande
Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD are prevalent among home care patients and significantly impact quality of life. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project aims to assess the impact of structured education on stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), progressive muscle relaxation, cognitive reframing, and guided breathing on PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores. A selected registered nurse at Home Healthcare Organization provided targeted education to eligible patients, using a teach-back method to ensure comprehension. PHQ-9 and GAD-7 assessments administered before and two weeks after the intervention. Data analyzed to determine if stress reduction education positively affects mental health outcomes. The goal is to demonstrate the efficacy of practical, evidence-based stress management techniques in home care, leading to measurable reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms.
Josephine Atta-Nsiah
Anaemia in pregnancy remains a major global public health problem, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Ghana, despite iron–folic acid supplementation, routine haemoglobin screening, and malaria control. This study examined knowledge and perceptions of anaemia, dietary practices, and pregnancy-related factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at Kenyasi Hospital in the Asutifi North District, Ghana. A facility-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 258 conveniently sampled pregnant women. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire on sociodemographics, anaemia knowledge and perceptions, pregnancy-related health conditions, and dietary practices assessed with a 24-hour recall. Data were analysed in STATA version 16, with results presented as frequencies and percentages. Nearly half (46.5%) of respondents had good knowledge of anaemia in pregnancy, but misconceptions about its causes, prevention, and effects were common. Diets were low in iron-rich and micronutrient-dense foods, especially animal-source foods and vitamin C–rich fruits. About 15% reported pregnancy-related conditions such as malaria and persistent vomiting that may increase anaemia risk. The study concludes that although awareness of anaemia was relatively high, major gaps remain in accurate knowledge, diet, and preventive behaviours. Strengthening nutrition education, encouraging early ANC attendance, and improving adherence to iron–folic acid supplementation are crucial to reducing anaemia in pregnancy.
Josefhia Yvone A. Himoldang, Lailanie D. Esquivel, Leslie N. Gannaban, Maica Mae S. Gagarin, Queenne Kimverlee C. Landingin, Remelyn C. Gerardo
Introduction. Many older people worldwide face major challenges in adhering to medicine, which has a direct impact on their health Objective. This study aim was to thoroughly determine the level of influence on medication adherence among the elderly in Barangay Batal, Rizal, and Rosario Santiago City. Method. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, the study surveyed n=358 elderly individuals to obtain relevant and accurate information regarding their medication practices. An adopted questionnaire was used from a previous study to gather data from respondents and ensure consistency in measuring adherence. Result. The result of the study shows that the level of medication adherence among the elderly in the selected barangay has high adherence in terms of effectiveness of medicine, desire to be treated, physician’s good prescription, and influence of positive observation. Conclusion. This indicates that the elderly respondents are motivated to follow their medication regimen when they perceive the medicine to be working effectively, when they genuinely desire to be healed, when the physician prescribes medications appropriately, and when they observe positive health outcomes from doing so. Moreover, it was statistically shown that there is no significant difference between medication adherence among the elderly when grouped according to profile, such as age, gender, or other demographic factors. The findings emphasized maintaining medication adherence in improving and sustaining health to attain better outcomes, particularly among the elderly population facing chronic health challenges
A. Z. Tsovina, M. M. Shuaibu, S. D. Gyar, S. H. Abdullahi
Despite the extensive study on plant and animal biodiversity in Nasarawa state, our knowledge of microbial diversity in general and macrofungal diversity in particular is very limited. Lentinus species collected from Keana Local Government Area, Identification was based on morphological characteristics and ITS region rRNA sequences. Based on the phylogenetic analyses the Lentinus species collected was Lentinus squarrosulus. The proximate composition, phytochemical and functional properties were investigated using standard analytical techniques. The nitrogen from soil were Lentinus squarrosulus was harvested ranging from 10.1114 ± 2.01 mg/g, phosphorus 8.9562 ±1.11 mg/g, potassium2.1202 ±0.20 mg/g), calcium 1.6423 ±0.13 mg/g and magnesium 0.3415 ±0.21 mg/g. The nutritional compositions of Lentinus squarrosulus were moisture 7.54 %, ash 4.15 %, fat 2.52 %, crude protein 21.61 %, crude fiber 5.22 % and carbohydrate 58.96 %. The functional properties were foaming capacity 131.6 %, foaming stability 56.1 %, water absorption 262.0 %, oil absorption 460.2 %, oil emulsion 61.3 mLg–1, Oil emulsion stability 41.0 mLg–1 gelation concentration 14.0 % and bulk density 413.5 gL–1. The phytochemical components were flavonoids 12.67mg/g, saponins 0.95mg/g, proteins 9.41 mg/g, alkaloids 7.57 mg/g, tannins 6.55 mg/g, steroids (1.43 mg/g), glycosides 2.99 mg/g, terpenoids 3.11 mg/g, phenols 6.11 mg/g, carbohydrates 8.78 mg/g, inorganic acid 1.34mg/g, and organic acid 9.41 mg/g. The results showed that these nutrients rich mushroom studied may prove useful in the formulation of different food products.
A. Z. Tsovina, I. K. Ekeleme, S. D. Gyar, S. H. Abdullahi
Keana forests are well known for high diversity of mushroom, an un-culturable and economic mushroom in Nasarawa state, Nigeria, but their systematics is limited and unorganized. This study focused on Molecular Studies, Nutritional Composition and Functional Properties of Volvopluteus species in Keana Local Government Area, Nasarawa state, Nigeria. Identification was based on morphological characteristics and ITS region rRNA sequences. The proximate composition, phytochemical and functional properties were investigated using standard analytical techniques. The Volvopluteus species samples collected from Keana were identified as Volvopluteus earlei. The highest nutrient detected from soil the Volvopluteus earlei was harvested from was nitrogen (9.0948±0.07 mg/g) while Magnesium (0.6104±0.01 mg/g) was the lowest. Flavonoids (12.35mg/g) were the highest chemical compounds detected and saponin (0.98mg/g) has the lowest. Carbohydrates (57.83 ± 2.03%) was the most abundant nutritional component, while fat (2.83 ± 0.31%) was the least. Oil absorption (462.0 ± 3.12%) was the highest, and gelation concentration (2.2 ± 0.1%) was the lowest. From the findings of this study Volvopluteus earlei from Keana should be used as a functional ingredient in food products such as bread, pastries, soups, and flour-based foods.
Dr. D. Alekhya, Dr. K.S.V.K.S. Madhavi Rani, Dr. R. Indira, Dr. S. Pratima Kumari, N. Lakshmi Prasanna
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory obstructive airway disease that affects individuals across all age groups and continues to pose a major public health challenge worldwide. Understanding age-specific prevalence, symptom patterns, and risk factors is essential for effective disease management and prevention. The present population-based study was conducted to assess the prevalence and patterns of asthma across different age groups and to create awareness regarding its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures. A cross-sectional survey was carried out in selected urban, semi-urban, and rural areas of Eluru District, Andhra Pradesh. Data were collected from 140 selected subjects using a standardized structured questionnaire that captured information on demographic characteristics, general health status, age of onset, symptom patterns, triggering factors, risk factors (general and early life), post-COVID respiratory effects, and treatment practices. The study revealed notable variations in asthma prevalence and clinical manifestations across age groups. Common symptoms included wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and persistent cough, with dust, pollution, respiratory infections, and allergens identified as major triggers. Family history, allergic conditions, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposure emerged as significant risk factors. The findings emphasize the need for early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and sustained community-based awareness programs to reduce disease burden and prevent progression of asthma across all age groups.
Bongkiynuy Nancy, Chrisantus Eweh Ukah, Claudine Mulih Shei, Ismaila Karimu, Lawrencia Osae-Nyarko, Nsagha Dickson Shey, Randolf Fuanghene Wefuan, Tendongfor Nicholas
Background: Occupational risks remain prevalent among seafarers along the Gulf of Guinea. However, structured evaluations of safety education and capacity-building initiatives targeting these risks remain scarce. Objective: This protocol outlines a mixed-methods study to assess the impact of a tailored occupational health and safety (OHS) training program on the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of West -African seafarers using the COM-B behavioral model. Methods: A quasi-experimental design will be used to conduct the study in the ports of Douala (Cameroon), Warri (Nigeria), and Tema (Ghana). Following recruitment, participants will be randomly allocated to intervention and control groups. A pre-assessment will be conducted with both intervention and control groups to establish baseline information. A six-module OHS training will focus on safety practices, hazard identification, and behavioral reinforcement. Data will be collected through surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), in-depth interview (IDIs), and structured observation at both pre- and post‑intervention stages. Quantitative data will be analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative data will be coded and analyzed using ATLAS.ti.. The COM-B framework will guide the intervention logic and inform outcome assessment. Expected Outcomes: This protocol is designed to generate replicable, policy-relevant evidence on improving seafarers’ safety behavior through contextualized health education and capacity building intervention.
Charmaine R. Quiña, Lawrence Quincy P. Quiaño, Ma. Andrea C. Del Rosario, Michael Hendrix T. Casama, Ricardo Saronias Jr., Sheriah Grace C. Labid, Sherrie Ann Cananua-Labid, Virginia S. Ariza
Teenage pregnancy remains a significant public health concern in low- and middle-income countries, including the Philippines, where rural and underserved communities continue to experience persistent social and health inequities. Despite ongoing policy and programmatic efforts, adolescent fertility rates remain disproportionately high in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. This study examined psychosocial factors associated with teenage pregnancy using a cross-sectional retrospective design. Participants were adult women aged 20 years and above who were purposively selected from barangay records in rural communities and classified as teenage mothers (first childbirth at ages 13–19) or non-teenage mothers (first childbirth at age 20 or older). A total of 441 respondents completed structured questionnaires assessing self-esteem, study attitudes, and family attachment as recalled prior to their first pregnancy. Independent-sample t-tests were conducted to examine group differences, while multivariable logistic regression was used to identify psychosocial predictors of teenage pregnancy. Results indicated that non-teenage mothers reported significantly higher self-esteem, more positive study attitudes, and stronger maternal attachment than teenage mothers (p < .001). Logistic regression analysis showed that self-esteem (OR = 0.16), study attitude (OR = 0.66), and maternal attachment (OR = 0.20) were significant protective factors against teenage pregnancy. The model demonstrated robust predictive performance, with an overall classification accuracy of 82% and high sensitivity in identifying teenage mothers. These findings underscore the importance of psychosocial and relational factors in shaping adolescent reproductive outcomes within structurally constrained rural contexts. Strengthening adolescents’ self-esteem, sustaining school engagement, and promoting supportive mother–child relationships may be critical components of preventionoriented strategies to reduce teenage pregnancy, particularly in rural and resource-constrained settings.
Chukwuka Lucia Ogechukwu, Fatile Jacob Olufemi, Hunga Victoria Opeyemi
This study examined the effects of public policy on the public health management system at Amuwo-Odofin Primary Health Care, Festac, Lagos State, Nigeria. A pragmatist research paradigm and stratified random sampling were adopted to select 350 employees. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Pearson product–moment correlation coefficients, and regression analysis with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, Version 25.0). Findings indicated that public health policies promote equitable access to healthcare services across socioeconomic groups and support regular vaccination and immunization services in public primary healthcare centers. The study also found that health facilities provide drug abuse awareness and family planning information. Statistical results revealed significant relationships between health insurance policy and access to healthcare services (r = .877, p < .001), public health policy and vaccination services, and healthcare service policy and effective prenatal and antenatal care (r = .786, p < .001). The study concludes that public policy significantly enhances public health management and recommends increased government funding and continuous capacity building for health workers to improve service delivery.
Awotunde Williams Alamu, Ojewusi Ayoola Ayobami, Titiloye Musibau Ayoade
While proper use of drugs can promote health and well-being, their misuse or abuse can lead to serious harm. Substance abuse is a global issue, and it is on the increase and most especially among youths with devastating effects on individuals, family and society at large. However, there has been limited exploration into broader populations to uncover additional vulnerable demographics engaged in substance abuse, particularly among the youths not enrolled in school, leaving a gap in the substance use data of the country. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the prevalence of substance use and its underlying factors among out-of-school adolescent and young people, to facilitate the development and execution of targeted interventions. The study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design and utilized a multi-stage sampling approach, information was gathered from 319 respondents across five wards in Mushin Local Government Area, Lagos State, Nigeria. Data collection involved an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire via the Kobo Collect app, focusing on socio-demographic details, substance use prevalence, commonly abused substances, associated factors, and awareness of substance-related complications. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-Square and ANOVA) at p<0.05 significance. Results: The study revealed that the mean age of respondents was 21.4 ± 2.12 years. Most (82%) were 20-24 years old, predominantly male (96%). Marijuana was the most common initial drug (39%), followed by Tramadol (15%) and Colos (12%). Key motivations for drug use included curiosity (79.6%), desire for happiness (52%), improved social interactions (37.6%), and enhanced sexual performance (33.9%). Statistical analysis showed a significant association between age at first drug use and family type (χ2 = 22.840, df = 6, p = 0.001). The result underscores the need for targeted interventions. Improved education on drug complications, strict enforcement of drug regulations, and addressing socio-cultural influences are crucial to reducing drug abuse among youth.
Ajayi Philomena Hope, Ejue, Frances Umari, Udoudo Inemesit Oscar
In 2020, globally estimated cases of cervical cancer was 604,127, while the death rate from cervical cancer was 341,831. To alter this trend and accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the global cervical cancer elimination initiative. In specific, the WHO, set up the 90-70-90 target through the initiative to be achieved by 2030. Thus, it requires 90% of girls to be vaccinated by the age of 15 years. The study assessed the HPV vaccination in the Federal Capital Territory-Abuja, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the rate of HPV vaccination in the Federal Capital Territory-Abuja, to identify the determinants of the vaccination and the effects of the rate of vaccination on public health. The mixed methods of survey and the qualitative study design of in-depth interview were adopted. The multi stage sampling method was used to select participants for the study. The questionnaire and IDI were instruments for data collection. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics using the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 26-0. The qualitative data was analyzed using thematic narrative approach. The study found out that the rate of vaccination of adolescents in the Federal Capital Territory is low. The study also found out that the determinants of this low rate of vaccination is religious manipulation, lack of trust in government, fear of damaging side effects among others. The study therefore recommends that continuous aggressive sensitization on cancer, stressing the prognosis and the cost effect of cancer management, formation of anti- cancer clubs in schools and among religious bodies, to initiate training for persons who will step down the training to the target groups.