Debre Berhan Town Research Articles

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Toward Physical Activity and It’s Associated Factor Among Women Attending Antenatal Care at Public Health Institutions in Debre Berhan Town, North Eastern Ethiopia

Physical inactivity is linked to pregnancy-related complications. Exercise participation during pregnancy is restricted in low-middle income nations, including Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess factors associated with physical activity practice among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public health institutions in Debre Berhan Town Northeastern Ethiopia. Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 22, 2021 to May 22, 2021 in Debre Berhan Town. The systematic random sampling technique was used to obtain the 418 participants. Data were collected by using standardized questionnaires. Data were entered, cleaned by Epi data version 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS version 25. The variables which had p-value < .05 and with 95% confidence interval were declared as determine factors of antenatal physical exercise. According to this study, 222 (53.1%, CI [48.3, 57.7]), 220 (52.6% [47.8, 57.2]), and 218 (52.2% [CI 47.6, 56.7]) of respondents had good knowledge, favorable attitude, and good practice of physical exercise respectively. Age group of 30 to 34 years (AOR: 2.15, 95% CI [1.08, 4.29]), housewife (AOR: 7.81, 95% CI [1.48, 41.21]), cultural recommendation (AOR: 2.16, 95% CI [1.37, 3.39]), exercise before pregnancy (AOR: 2.69, 95% CI [1.72, 4.19]), and gestational age >24 weeks (AOR: 2.538, 95% CI [1.02, 6.29]) were factors associated with practice of physical exercise during pregnancy. Physical activity during pregnancy was more common in the current study than in the national average. During an ANC visit, health care providers should improve and strengthen physical activity counseling sessions.

Eye care service utilization and associated factors among adults in Debre Berhan Town, North Shewa, Ethiopia, 2023.

Globally, the utilization of eye care services varies widely, ranging from 18 to 90%. Low utilization of eye care services can lead to delayed detection of vision problems. However, there are limited data on the proportion of eye care service utilization and its associated factors in Ethiopia at the community level. The objective of this study was to determine the proportion of eye care service utilization and its associated factors among adults in Debre Birhan town, North Shewa, Ethiopia. Using a multistage sampling method, a community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 960 adults in Debre Birhan town from 8 May to 8 June 2023. Binary logistic regression was performed. Variables with a p-value of less than 0.05 were considered significant. A total of 940 study participants participated, resulting in a response rate of 97.9%. The mean age of the participants was 54.67 years (SD ± 8.69). The proportion of good-level eye care service utilization was found to be 32.98% [95% confidence interval (CI): 29.97, 35.99]. Factors positively associated with good-level eye care service utilization included older age [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.58, 95%CI: 1.00, 2.51], higher educational status (AOR = 2.25, 95%CI: 1.25, 4.06), high family monthly income (AOR = 8.70, 95%CI: 4.99,15.18), awareness of regular eye checkups (AOR = 1.77, 95%CI: 1.15, 2.73), a history of eye disease (AOR = 2.57, 95%CI: 1.77,3.74), health insurance (AOR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.34, 2.95), and history of spectacle use (AOR = 1.94, 95%CI:1.34, 2.80). The study revealed that the proportion of good-level eye care service utilization was low. Older age, higher educational status, high family monthly income, awareness of regular eye checkups, a history of eye disease, health insurance, and history of spectacle use were significantly associated with a good level of eye care service utilization.

Herbal medicine use and its impact on glycemic control among diabetes patients at governmental hospitals in Debre Berhan, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus (DM) is a major health concern worldwide. Diabetes patients are increasingly using herbal medicine (HM) without seeking advice from their healthcare providers. However, its impact on glycemic control is not documented in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess herbal medicine use and its effect on glycemic control among diabetes patients at governmental hospitals in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia. MethodsA cross-sectional study involving 430 diabetic patients was conducted at two different hospitals in Debre Berhan town from January 1 to March 30, 2024. Data were gathered using a guided self-administered questionnaire to collect data including glycemic control assessed via hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Logistic regression model was used to assess the predictors of herbal medicine usage, while an independent samples t-test was conducted to compare the mean HbA1c levels between herbal medicine users and non-users among diabetes patients. ResultsOf the 430 participants, 72.6 % were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The study revealed 48.1 % (95 % CI: 43.3–53) participants used herbal medicine. Moringa stenopetala (33.5 %), Trigonella foenumgraecum (27.4 %), and Thymus schimperi (17.9 %) were the predominant herbs utilized by diabetic patients. The use of herbal medicine was associated with the patients’ diabetic knowledge (AOR: 1.59; 95 % CI: 1.01–2.49), occupation (AOR: 3.7; 95 % CI: 1.36–10.23), income (AOR: 3.58; 95 % CI: 1.22–10.55), and family history of diabetes (AOR: 1.9; 95 % CI: 1.19–3.18). Glycemic status was not controlled for 86 % of herbal users compared to 66.8 % of non-users. Participants who used herbal medicine had significantly higher mean HbA1c by a mean difference of 0.41 (95%CI: 0.04–0.78). ConclusionsHerbal medicine use was common among diabetes patients in this study. Poor knowledge about diabetes, a family history of diabetes, lower income, and a farming occupation were identified as strong predictors of HM use. Patients who used herbal medicine had significantly higher mean HbA1c levels compared to non-users. Healthcare providers should engage patients in discussions about herbal medicine use, emphasizing the potential risks to glycemic management. Future research should explore specific herbs used, their mechanisms of action, and strategies to integrate herbal medicine safely into diabetes management protocols.

Completion of tuberculosis preventive therapy and associated factors among clients on antiretroviral therapy at Debre Berhan town health facilities, North Shoa Zone, Ethiopia

BackgroundTuberculosis preventive therapy is vital in caring for HIV-positive individuals, as it prevents the progression from latent tuberculosis infection to tuberculosis disease. The aim of the study is to assess the completion of tuberculosis preventive therapy and associated factors among clients receiving antiretroviral therapy in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia, in 2022.MethodInstitutional based cross sectional study was conducted. Random sampling methods were used to select both study participants and health facilities. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. P-values less than 0.05 were statistically significant.ResultThe study found that, 83% of participants were completed tuberculosis preventive therapy. Completed tuberculosis preventive therapy was associated with no adverse drug events, taking first-line ART, and good ART adherence.ConclusionAccording to the Ethiopian ART guidelines, the study found a low completion rate of tuberculosis preventive therapy among HIV-positive clients on antiretroviral therapy. Factors like no adverse drug events, first-line antiretroviral regimen, and good adherence were significantly associated with completing tuberculosis preventive therapy.

Ethiopian High School Students’ Reading Motivation and Their Reading Achievement in EFL Classes

This study examined the relationship between Ethiopian grade 9 students’ reading motivation domains and their reading achievement in EFL classes. A sample of 120 9th graders of Debre Eba Secondary School in Debre Berhan town, participated in the study. Employing a correlational type of design, the study utilized questionnaire and reading achievement test to collect data. SPSS (Version, 25) was used to analyze data. The findings revealed that students’ reading motivation domains were significantly associated to reading achievement. The aspects i.e. extrinsic motivation, intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy and social motivation were positively and significantly related to reading achievement. However, a negative and non-significant correlation was found between reading avoidance and reading achievement. It was also found that students’ reading motivation domains together predicted their reading achievement. Thus, it can be concluded that students’ reading motivation domains are related to reading achievement while reading texts in EFL classes. Besides, the reading motivation aspects in combination are predictors of reading achievement. Finally, the study suggests that reading motivation strategies should be given critical attention in order to improve secondary school students’ reading comprehension and achievement.

Prevalence of modern contraceptive discontinuation and associated factors among married reproductive age group women in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of modern contraceptive discontinuation and associated factors among married reproductive age (15–49 years) group women.Study design, setting and participantsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Debre...

Self-care practice and its barriers among diabetes patients in North East Ethiopia: A facility-based cross-sectional study.

Diabetes prevention and management through self-care practice is critical to reducing severe complications and death due to diabetes. Data on the prevalence of self-care practices will help us to design and implement prevention and management strategies to foster adherence and compliance with the interventions. This study was intended to assess self-care preparation and its barriers among diabetes patients in Northeast Ethiopia. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among diabetes patients visiting Debre Berhan Town Public Health Institutions from March 10, 2021- April 10, 2021. A systematic random sampling technique was utilized to select 392 samples. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Measures. Reliability analysis was done using Cronbach's alpha test, and the Hosmer and Lemeshow test also checked for model fitness. Bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression was done to identify the factors associated with dietary practices. For all statistically significant tests, p- a value < 0.05 was used as a cut-off point. The mean age of the respondents was 47.1 years, with a standard deviation (SD) of ± 13.4 years. The mean adherence to self-care practice was 29.00 ± 10.37 SD. More than half, 218 (61.1%) of the study subjects had poor self-care practices. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, being a governmental worker (AOR = 7.06 (1.61-30.9) and having social support from partners (AOR = 5.83(3.01-11.3) showed a statistically significant association with good self-care practice. The current study showed that the overall level of self-care practice of study subjects was poor. Therefore, health facilities should provide adequate health education and promotion activities to enhance patients' level of adherence. In addition, families, partners, or friends of diabetes patients should be informed about their essential roles in patients' self-care practice.

Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci Prevalence, Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns and Colonization Risk Factors Among HIV-Positive Patients in Health-Care Facilities in Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia.

The majority of multidrug-resistant organisms found in immunocompromised patients are enterococci. The rise of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) poses a significant threat to public health. There is a scarcity of information regarding the prevalence of VRE in Ethiopia. This study aims to determine the prevalence of VRE in fecal samples from Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-positive individuals, to identify associated factors, and to assess their susceptibility to selected commonly prescribed medications. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April 1 to July 15, 2023, on 170 HIV-positive clients at Debre Berhan Town. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and clinical data. Stool sample was collected by trained health workers, and processed by standard microbiological techniques. Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was used for antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Data entry and analysis was carried out by SPSS Version 25. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the associated factors. Variables with a p-value of <0.05 were considered to be significantly associated with the outcome variables and the results were displayed with tables. From the total of 170 study participants, colonization of Enterococcus species was observed among 95 (55.9%). Vancomycin resistance was found in 13 (13.8%) of them with 95% confidence interval (CI) 7.4-22.1. History of hospitalization Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 11.9 (95% CI 1.11-127.53); habit of eating uncooked food (AOR: 15.34 (95% CI 2.36-99.63)) and invasive procedures (AOR: 23.07 (95% CI 3.54-150)) were among the predictors of VRE. MDR (multidrug resistance) was observed in 83 (87.4%) of the isolates. The highest rate of resistance was observed for ampicillin with 72 (74.6%). Vancomycin and multidrug resistance of enterococci among HIV patients are significant in ART clinics of Debre Berhan Town. These warrant applicable infection prevention guidelines in the health facilities and health education on food hygiene.

Exploring factors affecting product innovation practice among micro and small scale enterprises: the case study of Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia

Exploring factors affecting product innovation practice among micro and small scale enterprises: the case study of Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia

Pathogenic Bacteria and Their Antibiotic Resistance Patterns in Milk, Yoghurt and Milk Contact Surfaces in Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia.

Bacterial contamination of milk is a primary culprit for causing foodborne illnesses, presenting a significant health hazard for millions of individuals around the globe. The level and variety of microorganisms present in raw milk determine its degree of contamination and the potential health risks it poses. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from February to August. A questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and hygiene practices from milk distributors and traders. Raw milk, yoghurt, swabs from milk containers and drinking cups were collected and processed for bacterial isolation and identification, antibiotic susceptibility testing, MDR screening and confirmation, ESBL screening and confirmation. Finally, all data were pooled and analyzed using SPSS software version 25. A total of 120 samples of fresh milk, yogurt and cotton swabs from milk containers and cups were collected. A total of 80 bacterial isolates were isolated from 120 samples. Among the bacteria isolated, S. aureus 17 (21.3%), E. coli 17 (21.3%), S. epidermidis 14 (17.5%), Klebsiella spp. 9 (11.3%) and Salmonella spp. 7 (8.8%) were detected most often. High rate of contamination was observed in fresh milk 23 (28.8%) and yogurt 23 (28.8%). All isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic tested. Comparatively, high rates of resistance were observed in all isolates to the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in Ethiopia. However, lower rates of resistance have been observed for recently introduced antibiotics in Ethiopia. Of the isolates, 20 (25.0%) were resistant to eight or more antibiotics. While 16 (20.0%), 12 (15.0%), 9 (11.3%) isolates were resistant to two, three and five antibiotics, respectively. Of the bacteria isolated, 52/80 (65.0%) were MDR, 25/49 (51.0%) were screened for ESBL production, and 20/49 (40.8%) isolates were confirmed as ESBL producer. This study showed a high rate ofbacterial isolates along with MDR and ESBL-producing strains in raw milk, yoghurt, milk container swabs and drinking cup swab samples, associated with poor hygiene and sanitation practices.

Routine Health Information System Utilization and Its Associated Factors among Healthcare Professionals in Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia

Background. A routine health information system (RHIS) is a system that records, stores, and processes health data in order to enhance healthcare decision-making. However, systematic use of health information is still not used for program decisions in developing nations, particularly in Ethiopia. Objective. Identifying regular utilization of health information systems and related factors among healthcare workers in Debre Berhan Town health facilities, North Shoa, Amhara, Ethiopia, 2022. Methods. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 22 to September 22, 2022 in Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia. Data from participants were gathered using a self-administered, pretested structured questionnaire by employing a systematic random sample technique among healthcare workers at public health facilities. Data were entered into EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS. We employed multivariable logistic regression and descriptive statistics. Variables with a p-value &lt; 0.05 were considered statistically significant factors. Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness of fit was used to check the adequacy of the model. Result. A total of 383 workers were study participants with 100% response rate. The mean age was 32 (±5.23). Utilization of routine health information among health professionals was 42.6%. Type of institution (AOR = 0.56), complexity of RHIS) (AOR = 2.19), training on HMIS (AOR = 9.35), and feeling guilty of not accomplishing their performance (AOR = 2.96) were found significantly associated with routine health information utilization (RHIU). Conclusion. Utilization of RHIS among the health professionals was low. Type of institution, complexity of RHIS, data management skills, training on HMIS, and feeling guilty of not accomplishing their target performance were factors related to RHIS utilization. Comprehensive training and improve data management skills are highly recommended for improving RHIU.

Commonly Consumed Vegetables as a Potential Source of Multidrug-Resistant and β-Lactamase-Producing Bacteria in Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia.

Recently, antibiotic resistance of bacteria contained in foods such as vegetables has become a public health problem. In Ethiopia, the diversity of bacterial contamination and level of antibiotic resistance in vegetables are poorly understood. Local analysis of vegetable contamination and its contribution to the spread of antibiotic resistance are therefore essential for One Health interventions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the level of bacterial contamination of commonly consumed vegetables and their antimicrobial resistance patterns. A cross-sectional research was conducted in Debre Berhan town from February to August 2022. Questionnaires were used to collect data on sociodemographic variables, hygiene practices, and market hygiene. Six carefully selected vegetables (30 each, 180 in total) were purchased at a local market. Bacterial isolation and identification, multidrug-resistant (MDR) screening and confirmation, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) screening and confirmation, and antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed using standard operating procedure. The data were analysed statistically using SPSS software version 25. The contamination rate of vegetables was 119 (66.1%). Of the 176 bacteria isolates, E. coli (26.1%; 46/176), S. aureus (18.8%; 176), S. epidermidis (10.8%; 19/176), Klebsiella spp. (9.1%; 16/179) and Acinetobacter spp. (6.8%; 12/176) were the most frequently detected isolates. Of the 180 samples tested, (66.1%; 119/180) were contaminated with at least one type of bacteria. Lettuce (22.7%; 40/176), spinach (18.6%; 33/176), and cabbage (19.2%; 32/176) were the most contaminated vegetables. Of the 176 bacteria isolates, (64.8%; 114/176) were MDR, and (18.5%; 23/124) isolates were ESBL producers. The kind of vegetables, vendor/seller finger-nail status, medium of display, market type, and not cleaned before to display were all significantly associated with bacterial contamination. This study found that commonly consumed vegetables are contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Vegetables were also notable for the incidence of multidrug-resistant, extended β-lactamase-resistant, and methicillin-resistant bacterial isolates. Therefore, we urge local health authorities to develop and implement effective control strategies to reduce vegetable contamination.

Antituberculosis Drug Nonadherence and Its Associated Factors: Evidence from Debre Berhan Town, North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia.

Tuberculosis is a bacterial disease caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Regardless of many efforts made to control tuberculosis, the disease remains to be a major public health problem. Nonadherence to antituberculosis treatment poses a challenge to the disease treatment as it potentially increases the risk of drug resistance, mortality, relapse, and extended infectiousness. The North Shewa Zone had a poor performed on TB control status, so this study assessed the prevalence of antituberculosis drug nonadherence and its associated factors at governmental health institutions in Debre Berhan town, North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia, 2020. An institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 180 tuberculosis patients were included in the study. The data was entered using EpiData version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20.0 for statistical analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were computed to determine factor associated with antituberculosis drug nonadherence. Study finding shows that 26.0% respondents were nonadherent to their antituberculosis treatment. Respondents who were married were less likely to be nonadherent than who were single (AOR = 0.307; 95%CI = 0.120, 0.788). Respondents who have primary and secondary education were less likely to be nonadherent than those who had no formal education (AOR = 0.313; 95%CI = 0.100, 0.976). Respondents who experienced drug side effects were two times more likely to be nonadherent than those who did not experience drug side effects (AOR = 2.379; 95%CI = 1.008, 5.615). In addition, respondents who do not screen for HIV were four times more likely to be nonadherent than their counterparts (AOR = 4.620; 95%CI = 11.135, 18.802). The antituberculosis drug nonadherence is high. Marital status, educational status, drug side effects, HIV screening status of the patients, and availability of medication were the variables that influence drug nonadherence. There is a need to strengthen awareness creation and improve quality of the TB treatment services and anti-TB drug availability.

Household food insecurity and hunger status in Debre Berhan town, Central Ethiopia: Community-based cross-sectional study.

Food security occurs when all people have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that fits their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life at all times. There is limited evidence on this topic and not well studied in Ethiopia. This study aimed to investigate food insecurity and hunger status among households (HHs) in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was undertaken from 1 January 2017 to 30 January 2017. A simple random sampling technique was used to enroll 395 HHs for the study. An interviewer-administered, structured, and pretested questionnaire was used to collect data through a face-to-face interview. The household food security and hunger status were assessed by using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and the Household Hunger Scale, respectively. Data were entered and cleaned using Epiata 3.1 and exported to SPSS software version 20 for statistical analysis. Logistic regression was fitted, and an odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a value of p of less than 0.05 were used to identify factors associated with food insecurity. A total of 377 HHs participated in the study with a response rate of 95.4%. The proportion of households with food insecurity was 32.4%, among which mild, moderate, and severe food insecurity accounted for 10.3, 18.8, and 3.2%, respectively. The mean score of the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale was 1.88 ± 3.5. Hunger occurred among 3.2% of households. The mean score of the Household Hunger Scale was 2.17 ± 1.03. Husband or male cohabitant's occupation (AOR = 2.68; 95% CI: 1.31-5.48) and wife or female cohabitant's literacy (AOR = 3.10; 95% CI: 1.01- 9.55) were the only factors associated with HH food insecurity. HH food insecurity and hunger in Debre Berhan town were unacceptably high, which can hamper achieving national targets for food security, nutrition, and health. Intensified efforts are further needed to accelerate the decline in food insecurity and hunger prevalence. Therefore, interventions need to target self-employed merchants in small businesses and women who are uneducated.

Assessment of colostrum avoidance practice and associated factors among mothers of children under 2 years in Debre Berhan town North Shwoa Zone, Ethiopia: a community-based cross sectional study

Background: A Scientific evidence has revealed early feeding of colostrum to the newborn is a key to tackle against harmful germs by coating his intestines, and helping to shield his immune system against germs. Objective: To assess Colostrum avoidance and associated factors among mothers of children under 2 years of age in Debre Berhan town North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess colostrum avoidance practice in Debre Berhan town with total sample of 296 mother’s of children under two years of age from January 15to February 20, 2021. Data were collected by using structured-interview questionnaires from randly selected four kebeles after proportionaly allocated the study population for eah kebeles. Bivariate and Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to examine the possible predictors and chi-square test was doneto check variables with the statistical association of P-value of &lt; 0.05 and OR with 95% confidence interval were considered. Result: All the study participants were enrolled in making a response rate of 100%.The mean age of the mother was 28.6 with 4.99 Standard deviation and the majority of them were orthodox 197 (66.6%) and 105(35.5%) of mothers were complete secondary education level. Out of 296, 122 (41.2%) of mothers were housewife, 262(88.5%) were married. The prevalence of colostrum avoidance was 17.9%, who did not feed colostrum for their child with different reasons. Out of this mothers who avoid their colostrum milk due to maternal illness 29(54.72%), dirty 4(7.55%) and Yellowish milk with 34(64.15%) of by their own decision and gave other feed 17 (25%).The reasons of colostrum avoidance with avoidance practice x2 =44 with p value &lt;0.01 and COR =1.3(1.1-1.5, Prelacteal feedings were 3.16 higher to avoid their colostrum than those who had aware of colostrum feeding mothers (COR=4.2, AOR=3.16, 95% CI=1.6-6.19) were statistically associated with colostrum avoidance. Conclusion and recommendation: To improve neonatal health and growth, maternal awareness is decisive factor through delivering health education and promoting immediate colostrum feeding practice therefore, attention is required by community health workers to work on it.

Determinants of Implanon discontinuation among women who use Implanon at Debre Berhan town public health institutions in Northeast Ethiopia: a case-control study.

Discontinuation of the most effective methods of contraception such as Implanon has now become a worldwide problem, which is significantly associated with mistimed and unwanted pregnancies and unsafe abortion, leading to an increased risk of maternal and child mortality and morbidity. However, studies on factors associated with Implanon discontinuation in Ethiopia, particularly in the area under this study, are limited. Therefore, this study aims to identify the determinants of Implanon discontinuation among women who used Implanon at Debre Berhan town public health institutions. A facility-based unmatched case-control study was conducted among 312 study participants (78 cases and 234 controls) from February 1, 2021, to April 30, 2021. The study participants were selected by using a systematic random sampling method for controls, and cases were selected consecutively until the required sample size was reached, during the data collection period. The data were collected by using a structured face-to-face interviewer-administered questionnaire and entered into Epidata version 4.6 and transferred to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Variables with a p-value of <0.25 in the bivariable analysis were entered into the multivariable logistic regression model. In the final model variables, a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval (CI) and the strength of association was measured using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR). In this study, the determinants of Implanon discontinuation were the following: women who had no formal education (AOR: 3.57; 95% CI, 1.62-7.87), who had no children (AOR: 2.8; 95% CI, 1.50-5.17), who had no counseling about side effects (AOR: 2.43;95% CI, 1.30-4.55), who had no discussion with their partner (AOR: 2.7; 95% CI, 1.34-5.46), who had no follow-up appointment (AOR:2.81; 95% CI, 1.54-5.12), and who had side effects (AOR:1.91; 95% CI, 1.13-3.53). Women's educational status, having no children during the insertion of Implanon, received no counseling about the side effects of insertion, no follow-up appointment, experiencing side effects, and no discussion with a partner were determinants of Implanon discontinuation. Hence, healthcare providers and other health sector stakeholders should provide and strengthen pre-insertion counseling, and follow-up appointments to increase the retention rates of Implanon.

Intimate partner violence against women of reproductive age and associated factors during COVID-19 pandemic in Northern Ethiopia, 2021: A community-based cross-sectional study.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a major public health concern that affects more than one-third of all women globally. Assessing the prevalence of intimate partner violence and associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in various localities is crucial for intervention actions. So far, a few studies have been done in Ethiopia during the current COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intimate partner violence in women of reproductive age and associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia, 2021. A community-based cross-sectional study was done. A total of 809 ever-partnered women of reproductive age were selected randomly via a multistage sampling method. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with the resulting 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to verify the strength of associations. Significant associations were declared at p-values <0.05. Among the 796 women who successfully participated in the study, 337 (42.3%) experienced at least one type of intimate partner violence. Prevalence of psychological, physical, and sexual violence was 35.3% (281), 15.3% (122), and 15.2% (121), respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that women with no formal education [AOR (95% CI): 3.66 (1.91-6.98)], having no own income [AOR (95% CI): 1.78 (1.24-2.56)], and attitude of IPV were acceptable [AOR (95% CI): 4.02 (1.33-12.14)]; a male partner with no formal education [AOR (95% CI): 3.06 (1.53-6.14)], with "level of religious beliefs" [weak-AOR (95% CI): 4.17 (1.45-12.03); and medium-AOR (95% CI): 1.64 (1.13-2.39)], who is alcoholic [AOR (95% CI): 5.91 (4.03-8.67)], and with smoking habits [AOR (95% CI): 2.04 (1.10-3.77)] and >5 [AOR (95% CI): 1.83 (1.01-3.39)] was significantly associated with the presence of intimate partner violence. This study revealed a high prevalence of IPV in the study participants. The high intimate partner violence prevalence was due to multiple factors, thus demanding empowering women and tailored health education for male partners.

Assessment of sustainable development status of micro and small enterprises in Debre Berhan town, central Ethiopia

AbstractThis study investigates the sustainable development status of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Debre Berhan town in five major manufacturing sub‐sectors (textile and garment, agro‐processing, woodwork, food processing and beverage and metal works and engineering). The sustainable development status of the selected MSEs was evaluated using 16 indicators for the three pillars of sustainable development (economic, social and environmental). The results showed that economic sustainability was at a ‘low’ level, while social and environmental sustainability and the aggregate index were at ‘moderate’ levels. Therefore, integrated support is required to overcome the identified challenges MSEs face to achieve sustainable development.

Asymptomatic nasopharyngeal bacterial carriage, multi-drug resistance pattern and associated factors among primary school children at Debre Berhan town, North Shewa, Ethiopia

BackgroundNasopharyngeal carriage of bacteria is the main source for transmission of pathogens across individuals and horizontal spread of organisms in the community. It is an important risk factor for the acquisition of community-acquired respiratory tract infection. It is the major public health problem among children. The asymptomatic carriage of nasopharyngeal bacteria is different globally, particularly in Africa, carriage is higher in children and decreases with increasing age, 63.2% in children less than 5 years, 42.6% in children 5–15 years, and 28.0% in adults older than 15 years.ObjectiveThe aims of this study was to determine asymptomatic nasopharyngeal bacterial carriage, multi-drug resistance pattern and associated factors among primary school children at Debre Berhan town, North Shewa, Ethiopia.MethodsInstitutional based cross-sectional study was conducted at Debre Berhan town primary schools from February 1 to April 30, 2021. Primarily, the schools were stratified into two strata, public and private primary schools. From a total of sixteen government and fourteen private primary schools, five government and five private schools were selected by using a simple random sampling technique. Socio-demographic variables and potential risk factors were assessed using a structured questionnaire. A total of 384 nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected using sterile swabs aseptically; and inoculated on Blood agar, Chocolate agar, MacConkey agar, and Mannitol salt agar. The colony was characterized to isolate bacteria, and bacterial identification was performed by Gram reaction, hemolysis patterns, colonial characteristics and pigmentation, catalase test, coagulase test, mannitol fermentation test, oxidase test, fermentation of carbohydrates, H2S production, motility, formation of indole, triple sugar iron agar (TSI), citrate utilization, lysine decarboxylase or methyl red vogues proskur utilization, urea hydrolysis and satellitism tests. Antimicrobial sensitivity tests were performed by using modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Data were entered into statistical package Epi data 4.0.0.6 and transferred to and analyzed using SPSS software version-23. P value of < 0.05 with Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CIs) was considered as statistically significant.ResultsThe overall prevalence of nasopharyngeal carriage of bacterial isolate was 35.7% (95% CI 30.7–40.7%). The predominant isolates were Staphylococcus aureus 54.5% followed by coagulase-negative Staphylococcus 35.8%, and Streptococcus pyogens 4.5%. Most bacterial isolates were susceptible to chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, gentamycin, nitrofurantoin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin; and the overall multidrug resistance pattern of isolated bacteria was 62.03% out of 137 bacterial isolates. Numbers of rooms ≤ 2 per house [AOR = 5.88, 95%CI 1.26–27.57], having history of hospitalization [AOR = 4.08, 95%CI 1.45–11.53], passive smoking [AOR = 4.87, 95%CI 1.49–15.97], family size of > 5 members [AOR = 2.17, 95%CI 1.24–3.81], and number of students in the classroom [AOR = 2.35,95%CI 1.37–4.02] were statistically significant associated risk factors for nasopharyngeal bacteria carriage.ConclusionAsymptomatic nasopharyngeal bacteria carriage in children is alarming for community-acquired infection. The overall multidrug resistance was very high. The risk of the carriage was increased with having a history of passive smoking, being in large family size and number of students per class. Longitudinal follow-up studies would be helpful for better understanding the infection risk in bacterial pathogen carriers.

Parasitic Contamination and Microbiological Quality of Commonly Consumed Fresh Vegetables Marketed in Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia.

Parasitic and microbial contamination and the pattern of occurrence of the parasite species depends on weather conditions, socio-cultural conditions, sampling season, analyzed vegetable products, and other factors. Therefore, local assessment of vegetable contamination is crucial for targeted and effective interventions. A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to August 2022. A questionnaire was used to assess factors associated with parasite contamination of vegetables during the marketing period. The selected vegetables were purchased and processed for parasite and microbial analysis using standard methods. Finally, all data were summarized and analyzed using SPSS software version 25. A total of 180 vegetable samples were purchased from 180 vendors. This study identified a total of 129 parasites from 180 vegetable samples, with an overall contamination rate of (75; 41.7%). Both protozoa (41; 31.8%) and helminthes (88; 68.2%) were identified from vegetables. Contamination with more than one parasite species was (38; 21.1%). The kind of produce, finger nail status of vendors/sellers, the medium of the display, the type of market and not washed prior to display were significantly associated with parasite contamination. The results also showed that vegetable microbial load for total heterotrophic count, total coliform count, fecal coliform count, yeast count, and mold count was higher in the afternoon than in the morning. To decrease risks to public health, local health authorities and/or market inspectors should establish and implement strategies to reduce contamination such as encouraging specific display medium and washing of vegetables prior to display.