Student's Journal of Health Research Africa

Sudan Ebola virus persistence in breastmilk: A systematic mixed-studies review of viral shedding and transmission risk.

2026-02-03T06:30:48+00:00

Introduction

Ebola virus disease (EVD) poses significant risks to pregnant and breastfeeding women, with viral persistence in breastmilk potentially enabling mother-to-child transmission. This systematic mixed-studies review synthesizes evidence on Sudan ebolavirus (SUDV) in breastmilk, transmission risks, and implications for infant feeding during outbreaks.

Methodology

This searched Google Scholar, WHO, and global databases (January 2015–December 2024; English only) for peer-reviewed articles, reviews, and grey literature using terms like "Ebola Virus Disease" and "Persistence of Ebola Virus in Breast Milk." Inclusion: studies on EVD-positive women intending to breastfeed; exclusion: non-comprehensive case identification. Secondary data from Uganda's 2022 SUDV outbreak (89 cases) used RT-PCR for breastmilk. Two reviewers independently screened/extracted data; disagreements were resolved by consensus. Risk of bias assessed via narrative synthesis (no formal tool); certainty via GRADE (low-moderate due to observational data)

Results

The earliest viral clearance was observed on day 54, and the latest clearance occurred 223 days after discharge from the hospital. Overall clearance occurred faster in the left breast (average 80 days) than in the right breast (average 115 days). Older survivors cleared slower than their younger counterparts. While mothers were eager to re-lactate, their fears lay in re-infection and loss of breast milk due to viral clearance. Additionally, (Ready-to-use Infant Formula) RUIF nourished the babies beyond the need for breast milk. Food insecurity and post-traumatic stress disorder did not spare the milk letdown reflex, perhaps even struggling to get a sample to test.

Conclusion

Sudan Ebola Virus (SUDV) persists in breastmilk with clearance rates significantly influenced by maternal age and anatomical asymmetry. Beyond these biological risks, survivors face a "double burden" of PTSD and food insecurity post-recovery.

Recommendation

Formulate guidelines on utilization of RUIF and re-lactation for comprehensive survivor care with trauma-informed psychosocial support to address the complex emotional and physiological barriers to safe infant feeding.

Prevalence and factors associated with calcium disturbances among neonates admitted with nec at Lira regional referral hospital: A cross-sectional study.

2026-05-12T06:11:22+00:00

Background:

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly among preterm and low birth weight infants. Calcium disturbances, including hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia, are common complications in critically ill neonates and are associated with poor outcomes. However, there is limited data on calcium disturbances among neonates with NEC in Uganda.

Objective:

To determine the prevalence and factors associated with calcium disturbances among neonates admitted with necrotizing enterocolitis at Lira Regional Referral Hospital.

Methods:

A hospital-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 151 neonates with NEC admitted between February and April 2025. Data were collected using a structured tool and analyzed using STATA version 14. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize variables. Bivariate analysis was performed to identify associated factors, and variables with p < 0.2 were included in multivariable logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results:

The prevalence of calcium disturbances was 15.9% (95% CI: 10.8%–22.7%). In multivariable analysis, maternal corticosteroid use (AOR = 5.22, 95% CI: 1.10–24.79, p = 0.04) and neonatal convulsions (AOR = 7.08, 95% CI: 1.19–18.65, p = 0.02) were independently associated with hypocalcemia. For hypercalcemia, urban residence (AOR = 8.99, 95% CI: 1.63–49.53, p = 0.012), maternal gestational hypertension (AOR = 6.90, 95% CI: 1.03–46.13, p = 0.046), and neonatal fever (AOR = 17.49, 95% CI: 2.32–24.89, p < 0.001) were significant predictors.

Conclusion:

Calcium disturbances are common among neonates with NEC and are associated with both maternal and neonatal factors.

Recommendation:

Neonates admitted with NEC should undergo routine serum calcium assessment for early detection and timely correction of calcium disturbances.

Comparing bacterial load and type present in Chapatti sold by different vendors at Shilabela Market, Geita District, Tanzania. A cross-sectional study.

2026-06-03T08:39:38+00:00

Background:

The study aims to compare bacterial load and type present in Chapatti sold by different vendors at Shilabela Market, Geita District, Tanzania.

Methodology:

A laboratory-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Chapatti market stalls of Shilabela Market from May to June 2025. The primary study population included chapati samples sold by vendors at Shilabela market, and the secondary study population included the chapati vendors operating in Shilabela market. Data were summarised into tables, bar graphs, and pie charts using Excel.

Results:

112 chapatti samples were collected from four separate vendors at Shilabela Market. Sample production was similar across vendors, with Vendor A and Vendor D having 28 samples (25.0% each), Vendor B having 29 (25.9%), and Vendor C contributing 27 samples (24.1%). The chapatti from Vendor D had the highest mean bacterial load at 5.7 × 10⁵ CFU/g, with 46.4% of samples higher than the limit. Vendor C had the lowest mean bacterial load at 3.9 × 10⁵ CFU/g and presumably the lowest proportion of samples above the limit. The microorganisms' species distribution differed among the four vendors at Shilabela Market. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant isolate for Vendors A and D, who both had 50% of their samples contaminated. Vendor B had the highest prevalence of Escherichia coli (48.3%). Vendor C represented a mix and was present in a more balanced presence of E. coli with S. aureus.

Conclusion:

There was substantial historical variability in contamination, with some vendors having a greater presence of certain types of pathogens. Differences in levels of bacterial contamination may be largely attributed to vendor behaviour and hygiene practices.

Recommendations:

Consumers should be made aware of the potential health issues associated with consuming contaminated chapatti products through community sensitisation campaigns.

Food safety and microbial risk assessment of mixed vegetable salads sold from Arua Park restaurants in Kampala city Centre. A cross-sectional study.

2026-04-10T14:44:15+00:00

Background:

Foodborne illnesses remain a major public health concern globally and in Uganda, largely due to microbial contamination of ready-to-eat foods. This study assessed the microbial quality and associated health risks of mixed vegetable salads sold in Arua Park restaurants in Kampala City Centre.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study design was employed. Twenty-seven mixed vegetable salad samples were collected from nine randomly selected canteens and analyzed for Aerobic Plate Count (APC), Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella spp. using standard microbiological methods. Additionally, 156 structured questionnaires were administered to consumers, and observational assessments were conducted to evaluate food handling practices. Data were analyzed using ANOVA at a 95% confidence level, while Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) was performed using Monte Carlo simulation.

Results:

APC levels ranged from 3.1 to 4.83 log CFU/g, within acceptable limits. Salmonella spp. We’re not detected in any samples. However, Staphylococcus aureus counts ranged from 2.97 to 5.13 log CFU/g, with 66.67% of samples exceeding acceptable safety limits. Most canteens (77.78%) stored salads at room temperature and served them without heat treatment. The QMRA estimated a mean exposure dose of 8.301 × 10⁶ CFU/day and a mean probability of infection of 18.4%, indicating a considerable public health risk.

Conclusion:

Although general bacterial loads were within acceptable limits and Salmonella spp. were absent, the high prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in most samples suggests poor hygiene and unsafe handling practices. This poses a significant risk of foodborne illness to consumers.

Recommendations:

Regular training of food handlers, strict enforcement of food safety regulations by authorities, and improved storage practices are recommended. Further studies should explore microbial risks in other foods and locations to strengthen food safety interventions in Uganda.

Seroprevalence of dengue infection and its correlation with platelet count: A retrospective observational study.

2026-05-30T11:37:57+00:00

Background:
Dengue fever is a virus that frequently spreads through mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions. Thrombocytopenia, a common hematological abnormality associated with dengue infections, is occasionally used as a measure of the illness's severity.

Aim:
To determine the seroprevalence of dengue infection and evaluate its correlation with platelet count in suspected cases.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred patients who were clinically suspected of having dengue were included in this retrospective analysis. Dengue NS1 antigen and IgM antibody testing were used for the serological diagnosis. Hematological records were used to determine platelet counts. The chi-square test was employed in the statistical analysis of the data to ascertain the correlation between dengue positivity and platelet count.

Results:
60 cases out of 100 samples tested positive for dengue, indicating a 60% seroprevalence. Dengue infection was substantially linked to thrombocytopenia. The platelet counts of most dengue-positive patients ranged from 50,000 to 100,000 cells/mm³. Low platelet counts and dengue infection were significantly correlated, according to statistical analysis (p = 0.006).

Conclusion:
Thrombocytopenia and dengue infection are strongly correlated. For dengue patients to be effectively managed and complications to be identified early, platelet count monitoring is crucial.

Recommendation:

In suspected or confirmed dengue cases, routine platelet monitoring is advised since thrombocytopenia reflects the severity of the illness and the likelihood of sequelae. Patients with low platelet counts must be closely monitored and given an early test diagnosis. To improve disease treatment and outcomes in dengue-endemic areas, public health awareness, vector control, and healthcare facilities must be strengthened.

Sonographic patterns of infra and supra-clavicular malignant lymph nodes in breast cancer patients at the Uganda cancer institute. A cross-sectional study.

2025-11-13T07:04:15+00:00

Background

At the Uganda Cancer Institute, the sonographic protocol for breast imaging in malignancies mainly focuses on the breast itself and level I axillary lymph nodes. Axillary Level II, level III plus supraclavicular ultrasound scans are not routinely requested and yet are vital in early detection of lesions even before they become clinically apparent.

Methodology

This was a hospital based cross-sectional study involving 378 breast cancer patients who were randomly sampled. Those with dual malignancies were excluded. Clinical evaluation of the breasts, the axilla, the sub-clavicular, the infra and supra clavicular areas was performed followed by sonographic examination by experienced sonographers and imaging technologists.

Results

Infraclavicular and supraclavicular sonographicaly malignant lymph nodes ranged from 0.13-3.8 cm in length with a mean of 2.2 cm. Most of the lymph nodes 58% maintained their oval shape and had changes in other areas such the capsular margins (45% being irregular), cortex thickened (71.8%), unclear corticomedullary boundaries (71.3%) hilar thinning, (68.5%), calcifications (21%), necrotic changes (27.6%), and presence of flow on color Doppler which when combined together, fit our criteria for classification of lymph node as malignant. Level V (the posterior triangle of the neck) had 47.4% of the supraclavicular lymph nodes.

Conclusion

The commonest stations for supraclavicular malignant lymph nodes were Level V (the posterior triangle of the neck). The presence of flow, possession of unclear corticomedullary boundaries, thickening of the cortex were among the commonest patterns in the malignant lymph nodes.

Recommendation

All medical imaging professionals particularly those doing sonography on cancer patients and suspected cancer patients should start including the scanning of axillary levels II, III and the supraclavicular areas (at least level V, III and VII) in their protocols in addition to the normal scanning of the breast and axillary level I only.

Ambulatory blood pressure patterns and associated lifestyle behaviours in a cross-sectional study of young adult university students.

2026-04-16T08:52:06+00:00

Background:

Hypertension (HTN) is a significant silent health threat in all age groups, including young adults, often presenting no symptoms while causing long-term cardiovascular damage. This study aimed to explore ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) patterns, nocturnal BP changes, BP variability, morning BP surges, and the association between ABP and lifestyle factors in healthy university students.

Methods:

Demography, lifestyle, and family history of HTN were obtained using a questionnaire. ABP was measured using a portable automatic oscillometric monitor. Study participants were recruited from students enrolled at the University of Bamenda, Cameroon, who had no known history of cardiovascular disease and voluntarily agreed to collaborate. Data were analyzed using SPSS®, and the relationship between ABP parameters.

Results:

A total of 105 individuals participated in this study, and their mean age was 23.08±4.78. With a few exceptions, the mean BPs of males were slightly higher than those of females, with elevated 24HSBP of males significantly (p<0.02) higher than that of females and normal 24HDBP of males significantly (p<0.03) higher than that of females. The pulse rate of females at 60-100 bpm was significantly higher than that of males in the daytime (p<0.009) and at 24H (p<0.003). Most participants were non-dippers, with a mean SBP change of 5.12.7 mmHg and a mean DBP change of 5.49±2.6 mmHg. Morning surge in SBP was within 10-30 mmHg in 76 participants. Ambulatory BP was associated with salty food (> 5 g salt/day), sugar-sweetened beverages, insufficient sleep, and family history of HTN.

Conclusion:

Ambulatory BP monitoring is critical in detecting a comprehensive profile of BP patterns, and if used in combination with lifestyle patterns, will be crucial for tracking BP changes and, by extension, cardiovascular health in young adults.

Recommendation:

Thus, there’s a need for widespread ABP monitoring of healthy youngsters in order to prevent future cardiovascular disease.

Lived experiences of individuals with diabetes mellitus and HIV comorbidity in Kyamulibwa Sub-County, Kalungu District. A cross-sectional study.

2026-04-09T05:43:40+00:00

Background:

The study aimed to explore the lived experiences of individuals with diabetes mellitus and HIV comorbidity in Kyamulibwa Sub-County, Kalungu District.

Methodology:

This study employed a narrative inquiry qualitative design to explore the lived experiences of individuals with both diabetes and HIV in Kyamulibwa Sub-County, Kalungu district. Participants were purposively selected from patients previously involved in a 2022 Medical Research Council study, with a sample size of 10–15 determined by data saturation. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using a semi-structured guide, audio-recorded, and conducted in participants’ homes. Thematic content analysis was applied using NVivo. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained, ensuring confidentiality, credibility, and rigorous data management throughout the study.

Results:

Thematic analysis revealed seven core themes that characterized the lived experiences of participants. These included adherence to treatment, where managing multiple medications and complex regimens proved challenging; health care accessibility and quality; psychosocial adaptation, as individuals adapted their lifestyles and identities in response to dual diagnoses; and emotional and psychological resilience, built through personal strength, spirituality, and support networks. Other key themes were social support and community engagement, where family, peer groups, and community organizations played a critical role; treatment and medication management; and health literacy and patient empowerment, which varied among participants and influenced their ability to manage both conditions effectively. Two additional themes emerged as major barriers to accessing care: health care access and systemic challenges, including drug stock-outs, limited integration of services, and financial constraints; and cultural and personal beliefs, which shaped illness perceptions and influenced treatment decisions.

Conclusion:

People with HIV and diabetes showed resilience but faced stigma, financial challenges, and fragmented healthcare, limiting effective management.

Recommendation:

The Ministry of Health and healthcare providers should strengthen integrated, patient-centred care with improved education and reliable medication supply.

A retrospective study of the peri-operative outcomes of obstetric patients with cardiac disease, presenting for a caesarean section, under regional anaesthesia at a quaternary hospital.

2026-04-27T14:50:50+00:00

Background

Cardiac disease in pregnancy remains a leading cause of maternal morbidity with increased risk of major adverse cardiac events. This retrospective study aims to analyse the anaesthetic management and the peri-operative outcomes in this patient population.

Methods

The database of pregnant cardiac patients, who delivered at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital (IALCH) from 1^st July 2018 until 31^st December 2022 was retrieved. Records of patients who delivered via a caesarean section performed under regional anaesthesia were selected, and their charts were reviewed for the type of anaesthetic and any occurrence of major adverse cardiac events.

Results

305 patients were included in the study period. 247 patients were operated under regional anaesthesia, and 58 were operated under general anaesthesia. Maternal cardiac events occurred in 4.3%. The most frequent neuraxial technique was spinal anaesthesia in 58.7%, followed by combined spinal anaesthesia (CSE) at 29.6%. A high modified WHO risk score was associated with increased rates of major adverse cardiac events (MACE).

Conclusion

The study suggests that regional anaesthesia may be used in high-risk cardiac obstetric patients without an unexpected high incidence of MACE, supporting its cautious use in appropriately selected patients within specialised centres.

Recommendations

Regional anaesthesia should be considered as the first-line anaesthetic technique in appropriately selected pregnant cardiac patients for caesarean section.

Evaluating the pericapsular nerve group block in hip fracture patients: A prospective observational cohort study.

2026-03-20T11:35:12+00:00

Background

This study aimed to assess the pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block combined with a spinal anaesthetic compared to only a spinal anaesthetic in patients presenting for hip fracture surgery. The objectives were to determine the ability of a patient to sit for a spinal anaesthetic, rest, dynamic hip pain scores, and the incidence of lower limb motor blockade following the block. Furthermore, time to first request for opioid analgesia post-operatively and the total opioid consumption in morphine equivalents were determined.

Methods

A prospective, observational study with 40 participants who were recruited via purposive sampling. Participants receiving the PENG block combined with a spinal anaesthetic were allocated to the PENG block (Group P, n = 20) and those receiving only a spinal anaesthetic (Group C, n = 20). Group P received bupivacaine 0.25% 20ml injected into the target site in the block area, followed by spinal after 30 minutes in theatre. Group C received a spinal only.

Results

There were no significant differences in participants’ characteristics. Group P had 90% of the participants able to sit adequately without IV analgesia for a spinal versus 45% in Group C. Group P had statistically significantly lower rest (p<0.001) and dynamic (p<0.001) pain scores compared to Group C at 30 minutes following PENG block injection (T1). Thirteen (65%) participants in Group P did not have motor blockade as they were able to lift the blocked leg to 15 degrees at T1. A longer duration to first opioid analgesia required was found in Group P (p <0.001). The total IV morphine equivalent analgesic requirement for Group C was almost double that required for Group P (p = 0.009).

Conclusion

PENG block combined with spinal anaesthesia is better compared to spinal anaesthesia only.

Recommendations

A randomised controlled trial with a larger sample size is recommended.

Knowledge, attitude and practice of infection prevention and control among health-care workers at a regional referral hospital in Uganda. A cross-sectional survey.

2026-04-16T11:36:26+00:00

Background:

The burden of hospital-acquired infections is highest in low- and middle-income countries, with rates of as high as 16% being documented, yet already burdened with a high prevalence of highly transmissible infectious diseases like Hepatitis B and HIV. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of infection prevention and control (IPC) among healthcare workers (HCWs) at a tertiary regional referral hospital in Uganda.

Methods:

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a pre-tested structured questionnaire among 144 participants. The healthcare workers were selected through a systematic random sampling technique. Multivariate logistic regressions were computed to identify associated factors of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of infection prevention and control, with variables having a p-value < 0.05 being considered statistically significant.

Results:

The proportions of adequate knowledge, good attitude, and practices of IPC among HCWs were 85.2%, 82.3%, and 59.8%, respectively. Advanced age (OR 1.19, 95% CI: 1.00–1.33, p-value = 0.040), male sex (OR 5.92, 95% CI: 1.02–34.5, p-value = 0.048), and longer years of work experience (OR 0.02, 95% CI: 0.00–0.47, p = 0.015) were significantly associated with high KAP scores above 70. However, having IPC training experience, the presence of infection prevention guidelines, and adequate PPE supply at the workstation did not show statistically significant associations with a KAP score above 70.

Conclusions:

The findings of this study revealed a good knowledge and attitude of infection prevention in the majority of healthcare workers, with a relatively minimal practice rate. Sociodemographic factors like age, sex, and work experience were associated with high KAP scores.

Recommendation:

Further qualitative research on behavioural factors associated with KAP on infection prevention and control is also recommended.

Profile and outcomes of COVID-19 positive patients requiring a caesarean section at an academic hospital in Johannesburg: A retrospective cross-sectional study.

2026-04-21T22:38:06+00:00

Background

The obstetrics population represents a significant proportion of patients who present to our hospital, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH). This study aims to determine the profile and outcomes of obstetric patients who are COVID-19 positive, requiring caesarean section.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional observational research study design was performed. The study population consisted of COVID-19 PCR-positive parturients undergoing caesarean section (CS) at CHBAH. A convenience contextual sampling method was used. Anaesthetic and maternal clinical records of 326 patients were reviewed during the period 1^stMarch 2020 to 31^st March 2021.

Results

One hundred and seventy-four patients with a median (interquartile range) age of 30 (IQR 26-37) years, a BMI of 26.6 (23.9-30.5) kg/m^2, and a median gestational age of 38 (37-39.5) weeks, were included in the study. Most of the patients were classified as ASA-PS 2 (81.6%) and underwent emergency procedures (86.8%). Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence was 28.7%, with hypertension (5.7%) being the next most common comorbidity. Pregnancy-related complications were predominantly related to pre-eclampsia (24.1%). Preterm delivery occurred in 40.2% of cases. Thrombocytopenia was uncommon (2.8%), with cases attributable to HELLP syndrome or isolated findings. COVID-19 severity was predominantly mild, with no significant association found between HIV status and disease severity. The patient outcome showed 94% ward admission, 5% HCU/ICU admission, minimal need for inotropic support (0.6%), and overall length of stay (LOS) of 10 days. Mortality was low at 0.6%.

Conclusion

COVID-19 in the pregnant population did not result in poorer outcomes, which is in keeping with other studies in this field.

Recommendation

Maintain standard COVID-19 risk stratification irrespective of HIV status. Prioritise early detection and management of hypertensive disorders, strengthen antenatal care to reduce prematurity, and ensure preparedness for emergency caesarean sections with continued access to critical care and multidisciplinary support.

Barriers to effective utilization of mobile health initiatives in the timely initiation of antenatal care among mothers living with HIV/AIDS in Kamuli district. A cross-sectional study.

2026-04-08T10:27:05+00:00

Background:

Mobile health (mHealth) initiatives have shown significant promise in improving antenatal care (ANC) uptake among pregnant women living with HIV (PWLHIV). This study examined the barriers to effective utilization of mHealth initiatives in the timely initiation of ANC among mothers living with HIV/AIDS in Kamuli District, Uganda.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional phenomenological qualitative design was adopted. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 10–15 pregnant women living with HIV and 5 key informant health workers from health facilities implementing mHealth initiatives in Kamuli District. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and key informant interviews using a structured interview guide. Interviews lasting 45–60 minutes were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically using Atlas. TI software, following both deductive and inductive approaches.

Results:

Most respondents were aged 25–30 years (40%), farmers/peasants (35%), and had attained primary education (40%). Seven key themes emerged as barriers to mHealth effectiveness: technological and network barriers, including poor connectivity and lack of compatible devices; privacy and confidentiality concerns regarding HIV status exposure; cultural beliefs conflicting with digital health adoption; financial constraints limiting access to data and smartphones; stigma and fear of HIV disclosure discouraging digital engagement; misinformation about mHealth and ANC services; and competing priorities and time constraints that reduced participants' capacity to engage with mHealth platforms.

Conclusion:

Despite the potential of mHealth to promote early ANC initiation among PWLHIV, its effectiveness in Kamuli District is significantly undermined by technological, socio-cultural, financial, and privacy-related barriers that collectively reduce uptake and engagement.

Recommendations:

Stakeholders should invest in rural network infrastructure, subsidize mobile data for PWLHIV, enforce robust data privacy regulations, design culturally sensitive and locally contextualized mHealth content, and integrate community-based approaches involving village health teams and local leaders to enhance mHealth reach and acceptability.

Health locus of control and prostate cancer screening uptake following prostate cancer education among male college students in Nigeria. A quasi-experimental pretest–post-test control group study.

2026-04-08T19:00:59+00:00

Background

Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy among Nigerian men and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Health locus of control (HLoC) is a well-established psychosocial construct with demonstrated influence on preventive health behaviour. This study investigated the effect of a structured disease education programme on knowledge, attitude, and uptake of prostate cancer screening among male college students in Oyo State, Nigeria, and examined the moderating roles of health locus of control and religion.

Methods

A quasi-experimental pretest-post-test control group design with a 2x2x2 factorial matrix was adopted. Two hundred (200) male students were recruited from government-owned Colleges of Education in Oyo State using a multi-stage sampling technique. Participants in the experimental group received an eight-week structured prostate cancer disease education programme; the control group received personal hygiene education. Data were collected using validated instruments: the Knowledge of Prostate Cancer Screening Scale (KPCSS, α=0.78), Attitude Towards Prostate Cancer Screening Scale (ATPCSS, α=0.81), and Uptake of Prostate Cancer Screening Scale (UPCSS, α=0.77). Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) was used to test hypotheses at p<0.05.

Results

Disease education significantly improved knowledge (F (1,192) =139.204, p<0.001, η²=0.420), attitude (F(1,192) =184.553, p<0.001, η²=0.490), and uptake (F (1,192) =143.890, p<0.001, η²=0.428) of prostate cancer screening. Locus of control had a significant main effect on uptake (F (1,192) =3.624, p=0.048, η²=0.019), with participants of external locus of control recording higher post-intervention uptake scores. Religion had no significant main effect on any outcome.

Conclusions

Disease education is an effective intervention for improving prostate cancer screening behaviour among male college students in Nigeria. Health locus of control differentially predicts screening uptake, with externally oriented individuals responding more strongly post-intervention.

Recommendation

Targeted health education programmes in tertiary institutions should incorporate psychosocial constructs such as locus of control to optimise uptake of cancer screening.

A Retrospective Descriptive Coho Outcomes of intravitreal Bevacizumab injection on diabetic macular oedema patients of different ethnic groups in a Tertiary hospital setting in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: A Retrospective Descriptive Cohort Study.

2026-04-06T02:33:55+00:00

Background:

To investigate the variation in central macular thickness and visual acuity among different ethnic groups following three intravitreal injections of Bevacizumab at McCord Eye Hospital.

Methods:

A retrospective observational cohort study of patients with diabetic macular edema from different ethnic groups at McCord Eye Hospital. Patients were classified into Black, Caucasian, Coloured, and Indian ethnic groups. Baseline measurements included visual acuity, measured in decimal and reported in LogMAR, and central macular thickness (CMT) measured with optical coherence tomography (OCT). These measurements were taken before three intravitreal Bevacizumab injections spaced six weeks apart, with follow-up measurements two weeks after the third injection. The study compared changes in VA and CMT between ethnic groups and explored the influence of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and ocular prognostic markers on treatment outcomes.

Results:

349 eyes from 204 patients were enrolled. The number of eyes per ethnic group was 170 Indian, 129 Black, 22 Caucasian, and 22 Coloured. Indians showed the least improvement, with a VA change of 0.82 LogMAR (0.15) and a CMT reduction of -90 µm. Caucasian had a VA change of 0.57 LogMAR (0.27) and a CMT of -94 µm. Black experienced a VA change of 0.63 LogMAR (0.24) and CMT of -122 µm. Coloured performed best, with VA change of 0.47 LogMAR (0.34) and CMT of -125 µm (P=0.001). Hypertension and dyslipidemia prevalence in Indian 56%, Caucasian 32%, Black 15%, Coloured 18%.

Conclusion:

The Ethnic groups with the least VA improvement and CMT reduction had the highest prevalence of systemic risk factors and poor prognostic ocular biomarkers, highlighting their significant impact on treatment outcomes.

Recommendations

Diabetic macular oedema requires a multidisciplinary approach to manage systemic risk factors rigorously and early detection of poor prognostic indicators, which will allow for prompt escalation of treatment.

Prevalence of Hypokalaemia in patients presenting with Diarrhoea at Kiswa Health Centre III, Nakawa Division in Kampala District. A cross-sectional study.

2025-12-13T10:22:41+00:00

Background:

This study aims to determine the prevalence of Hypokalaemia in patients presenting with Diarrhoea at Kiswa Health Centre III, Nakawa Division, in Kampala District.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 138 patients presenting with diarrhea. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and laboratory analysis of serum sodium levels using an automated chemistry analyzer. Results are presented in tables, graphs, and charts.

Results:

The study enrolled 138 respondents presenting with diarrhea, with the largest age group being 18–35 years (40 participants, 29.0%), followed by children under five years (36 participants, 26.1%). Young children (<5 years) and elderly adults (≥60 years) were more prone to severe electrolyte imbalances. Males constituted a slightly higher proportion of the study population (51.4%) compared to females (46.4%). Hypokalemia affected participants across all age groups, with children under five being the most affected, accounting for 32 cases (23.2%) across all severities: 14 mild (10.1%), 11 moderate (8.0%), and 7 severe (5.1%). Elderly adults contributed 17 cases (12.3%), including 7 mild (5.1%), 5 moderate (3.6%), and 5 severe cases (3.6%). Adults aged 18–35 years recorded 16 cases (11.6%), adolescents 5–17 years 10 cases (7.2%), and adults 36–59 years 11 cases (8.0%). Mild hypokalemia was the most common across all age groups, followed by moderate cases, while severe hypokalemia was less frequent. Overall, children under five and elderly adults were consistently the most affected, highlighting their increased vulnerability to potassium depletion during diarrheal illness.

Conclusion:

Hypokalemia is common among diarrheal patients, with children under five and adults over 60 being most vulnerable, and mild cases being the most frequent.

Recommendation:

Routine potassium screening, proper rehydration, and patient education are essential to prevent and manage hypokalemia, especially in high-risk groups.

Effect of social gambling on the mental well-being of the youth in Nakawa Division, Kampala District, Uganda. A cross-sectional study.

2026-04-29T14:51:28+00:00

Background:

The effect of social gambling is most pronounced on social and environmental well-being. The study aims to analyse the effect of social gambling on the mental well-being of the youth in Nakawa Division, Kampala District, Uganda.

Methodology:

A quantitative cross-sectional study. The target population was all youth in Nakawa Division, Kampala. The accessible population comprised youth in four randomly selected parishes in Nakawa Division, totaling about 11,050 youth.

Results:

There was a significant effect of social gambling on mental well-being (β=.139, p=.007). The study results show that social gambling significantly accounted for 1.9% of the variance in mental well-being (R² = .0.19, F (1,369), p =.007). The regression coefficient for social gambling was 1.093, with a standard error of 0.405. This implies that for every unit increase in social gambling behaviour, mental well-being increases by 1.093 units. The positive relationship between social gambling and mental well-being was found to be statistically significant (t (369) = 2.701, p=0.007). R² is below 0.25, indicating that the effect size is small. The R²of 0.019 obtained in the present regression model indicates that social gambling behaviour plays a less substantial role in mental well-being. The majority of the participants had attained Advanced Level (A-level) education (37.9%) as their highest level of education.

Conclusion:

Social gambling has a weak but statistically significant positive relationship with youth mental well-being, mainly influencing social and environmental well-being. Social gambling appears to provide opportunities for peer bonding and recreation, which may offer temporary psychological benefits.

Recommendations:

It is recommended that the Ministry of Education and Sports and the National Council for Higher Education introduce courses and modules on problem gambling in universities and other higher learning institutions.

A Narrative Review of Customary Power or Political Instrument: The Evolving Role of Traditional Leaders in Zimbabwe’s Decentralised Governance System.

2026-04-01T11:00:55+00:00

This study examines whether the evolving role of traditional leaders in Zimbabwe’s decentralised governance system reflects customary power or functions as a political instrument. Using a narrative review approach, the study synthesises existing literature on traditional leadership, decentralisation, and local governance to trace shifts in authority, legitimacy, and institutional positioning. It situates traditional leaders within both historical and contemporary governance frameworks, highlighting how their roles have been reshaped from pre-colonial and colonial periods to the post-independence decentralisation agenda. The analysis explores the formal and informal functions performed by traditional leaders, including community representation, dispute resolution, land administration, and participation in local development initiatives. It further examines their interaction with state institutions within decentralised governance structures, where they are expected to enhance grassroots participation, service delivery, and local accountability. At the same time, the study critically interrogates the influence of political dynamics, particularly the extent to which traditional leaders are integrated into formal state systems in ways that may align them with partisan interests. The findings reveal that traditional leaders operate within a hybrid governance space characterised by overlapping customary authority and state-driven political roles. While this dual positioning can strengthen local legitimacy and facilitate community-level governance, it also raises concerns about the autonomy and accountability of customary institutions. The study contributes to policy and governance debates by emphasising the need for clearer institutional frameworks that define and balance the roles of traditional leaders, safeguard their independence, and promote democratic decentralisation in Zimbabwe.