Health Concern In Ethiopia Research Articles

Recovery rate and predictors among children aged 6-59 months with severe acute malnutrition in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a retrospective follow-up study.

Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is a critical public health concern in Ethiopia, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates among children. Despite the improvement in hospital coverage and the development of standardized WHO treatment guidelines, recent reviews indicated a wide range in recovery rates (34%-88%) due to several context-specific factors. Understanding the factors influencing the recovery time can help inform targeted interventions and improve the overall management of SAM cases. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the time to recovery and predictors of children aged 6-59 months with severe acute malnutrition in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2023. An institutional-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted among children aged 6-59 months who were admitted to Tirunesh Beijing Hospital (TBH), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from July 2019 to June 2023. The Kaplan-Meir estimate and survival curve were used to compare the time to recovery using a log-rank test among different characteristics. A Cox proportional hazard regression analysis model was used to identify significant predictors of time to recovery. Finally, a p-value of <0.05 was used to declare a significant association. The median survival time to recovery was 17 (95% CI: 16.39-17.60) days, and the incidence rate of recovery from SAM was 37.8 per 1,000 child days. Moreover, exclusive breastfeeding [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 1.97, 95% CI: 1.45-2.68], amoxicillin provision (aHR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.11-2.35), and deworming (aHR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.48-3.09) were protective factors. However, complications at admission (aHR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.23-0.73) and diarrhea during admission (aHR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.45-0.91) were identified as risk factors of recovery from SAM. The time to recovery among the current study participants was low compared with the sphere standard. Besides, exclusive breastfeeding, complications at admission, diarrhea, amoxicillin provision, and deworming were independent predictors. Therefore, appropriate provision of routine medication and early management of medical comorbidity as per the national SAM management protocol can reduce the mortality of children with severe acute malnutrition significantly.

Hotspot analysis of anaemia among pregnant women in Ethiopia: hotspot analysis of national demographic and health survey data

BackgroundAnaemia is a significant global health problem, especially, in developing nations like Ethiopia. Despite increasing rates over the past two decades, there is limited research on the specific prevalence of...

Magnitude and determinants of road traffic accidents in North Gondar Zone; Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Background Road traffic accidents are a severe health concern in Ethiopia. This study aims to examine the primary contributing variables of road traffic accidents in Ethiopia, North Gondar Zone, under 24 administrative wereda’s. Methods This study utilized secondary data collected from both the werda-level and North Gondar central-level offices within the study areas. The sector police typically submit reports to the zonal-level offices annually. Information regarding crashes, fatalities, and injuries during the study period was extracted from these police reports. The research focused on analyzing the frequency and severity of traffic accidents attributed to various factors of drivers, vehicles, road conditions, pedestrians, and environmental influences. Results In a sample of 603 aggregate road traffic accidents, the data reveals that the majority of damage results are attributed to young drivers, accounting for 58% of the cases, with junior grade level drivers contributing 29.4%. Driving without a license was a significant factor, representing 87%, while accidents involving recruited driver stood at 63.2%. Vehicles with small to articulated trucks contributing to 39%. Mechanical failures were prevalent, with an unknown diagnosis rate of 48.3%. Vehicles in service for 2-5 years accounted for 29.4%. Road surface conditions were 46%, while rural roads saw a higher percentage at 51.2%. Weather conditions played a role also influential, as dry asphalt and gravel roads under main access ownership were linked to of accident, with 91.2% occurring during visible daylight hours between 8:00-12:00 and 15:00-17:00. The victims were predominantly farmers at 49.6%, followed by students at 23%. Conclusions To reduce road traffic accidents in the study area, it is essential to manage causative factors such as driver and road users, vehicles, roads, pedestrians, and environmental behaviors. The study suggests the development of a successful, up-to-date traffic accident database system regionally within respective offices.

Ethiopia National Cholera Elimination Plan 2022-2028: Experiences, Challenges, and the Way Forward.

Cholera remains a significant public health concern in Ethiopia. More than 15.9 million Ethiopians, constituting 15% of the total population, live in areas with a history of recurrent cholera outbreaks. The last 9 years of national cholera surveillance data show the country has been experiencing cholera outbreaks every year. The current cholera outbreak, starting in August 2022, has affected the entire country, with 841 reported cases and a 3.13% case fatality rate (CFR) in 2022, and >30 000 cases with nearly a 1.4% CFR in 2023. In line with "Ending Cholera-A Global Roadmap to 2030," the government of Ethiopia is committed to eliminate cholera in the country and has prepared its "National Cholera Elimination Plan (NCP): 2022-2028" with aims to achieve zero local transmission in cholera hotspot areas by 2028 and 90% fatality reduction from the recent (2020-2022) average of 1.8% CFR. The plan is multisectoral, has a clear coordination platform, contains all interventions with in-depth situational analysis, is concordant with existing plans and strategies, and is cascaded at the regional level and implemented with existing government and public structures. Nationwide, total 118 cholera hotspot woredas (districts) were identified, and a comprehensive situation analysis of the existing cholera outbreak response capacity was assessed. This multisectoral and multiyear NCP has forecasted around US$404 million budget estimates with >90% allocated to improving the country's water, sanitation, and hygiene (US$222 million; 55% of total NCP budget) and case management (US$149 million; 37%). The cholera vaccination strategy included in the NCP exhibited a 5-year oral cholera vaccine (OCV) introduction plan with 2 doses (30 604 889 doses) and single dose (3 031 266 doses) in selected cholera hotspot areas. However, its implementation is challenged due to a lack of financial support, inability to get the requested vaccine for targeted hotspot woredas (due to the current shortage of doses in the OCV global stockpile), recurrent cholera outbreaks, and high humanitarian needs in the country. It is recommended to have a sustainable financial mechanism to support implementation, follow the requested vaccine doses, and reorganize the planned coordination platform to foster the implementation.

A five years malaria surveillance data analysis of North Shewa zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia: July 2018 to June 2023

BackgroundMalaria is a critical public health concern in Ethiopia, with significant socioeconomic consequences. Malaria data trend analysis is essential for understanding transmission patterns and adopting evidence-based malaria control measures. The purpose of this study was to determine the 5 year distribution of malaria in North Shewa zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia, in 2023.MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed to analyse the 5 year trend of malaria surveillance data in the North Shewa zone of the Amhara regional, Ethiopia, spanning from July 2018 to June 2023. The malaria indicator data were gathered from the zone’s public health emergency management database. Malaria data from the previous 5 years was collected, compiled, processed, and analysed using Microsoft Excel 2019.ResultsAmong a total of 434,110 suspected cases 47,889 (11.03%) cases were confirmed as malaria, with an average annual malaria incidence rate of 4.4 per 1000 population in the Zone. Malaria cases exhibited an increase from Epidemiological Week (Epi week) 37 to Epi week 49 (September to November) and again from Epi week 22 to week 30 (May to July). Individuals aged 15 and above, and all districts in the Zone except Angolela were notably affected by malaria.ConclusionDespite implementing various measures to reduce malaria incidence, the disease continues to persist in the zone. Therefore, the Zone Health Department should intensify its preventive and control efforts.

Ten-year trend analysis of malaria prevalence in Gindabarat district, West Shawa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Western Ethiopia

BackgroundMalaria is a major public health concern in Ethiopia, where more than half of the population lives in malaria risk areas. While several studies have been conducted in different eco-epidemiological settings in Ethiopia, there is a notable scarcity of data on the prevalence of malaria in the Gindabarat district. Therefore, this study aimed to analyse 10-year trend of malaria prevalence in Gindabarat district, West Shawa Zone of Oromia, Western Ethiopia.MethodsA retrospective laboratory record review was conducted at Gindabarat General Hospital and Gindabarat District Health Office from September 2011 to August 2020. The retrieved data included the date of examination, age, sex and laboratory results of the blood smears, including the Plasmodium species identified. Data were summarized and presented in the form of tables, figures, and frequencies to present the results. The data were analysed using SPSS (version 25.0) and Microsoft Excel.ResultsOver the course of 10 years, a total of 11,478 blood smears were examined in the public health facilities in the district. Of the total blood smears examined, 1372 (11.95%) were microscopically confirmed malaria. Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax and mixed infections (P. falciparum and P. vivax) accounted for 70.77%, 20.55% and 8.67% of the cases, respectively. Malaria prevalence was significantly higher among individuals aged ≥ 15 years (12.60%, x2 = 13.6, df = 2, p = 0.001) and males (14.21%, x2 = 59.7, df = 1, p = 0.001). The highest number of malaria cases was recorded from September to November.ConclusionMalaria remains a public health problem in the district. P. falciparum was the most predominant parasite species in the area. Malaria prevalence was significantly higher among individuals aged ≥ 15 years and males. There was a remarkable fluctuation in the number of malaria cases in different months and years. In the study area malaria cases peaked in 2015 and 2017 then decreasing from 2017 to 2019, with sharp increase in 2020. Moreover, this study showed malaria cases were reported in all seasons and months, but the highest was observed from September to November. Strengthening malaria control activities is essential to further reduce the burden of malaria and pave the way for the anticipated elimination.

Characterization of human papillomavirus genotypes and their coverage in vaccine delivered to Ethiopian women

Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern in Ethiopia. It is mainly caused by persistent infection with the human papillomaviruses. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between carcinogenic risk of probable, possible and low risk HPV infection and those of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer. A cross sectional study nested from prospective cohort study was conducted in Bahir Dar, northwest Ethiopia. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSSversion 26.0. HPV-16 was associated with a relatively higher risk of CIN II+, (AOR = 15.42; 95% CI 6.81–34.91). In addition, HPV-52, -18, -53 and -58, were significantly associated with an increased risk of CIN II+, (AOR = 7.38 (1.73–31.54), 5.42 (1.61–18.31), 4.08 (1.53–10.87), and 3.17 (1.00–10.03)), respectively. The current study shows high rate of HPV with predominance of HPV-16, -53, -58, -18, -35, and -52. The quadrivalent and nonavalent vaccine had only covered 27.1% and 45% of the circulating HPV genotypes. Ethiopia may need to consider introduction of nonavalent vaccine into the national public health strategy. Polyvalent vaccine which includes the genotypes not covered by existing approved vaccines should be considered.

Spatiotemporal distribution and bionomics of Anopheles stephensi in different eco-epidemiological settings in Ethiopia

BackgroundMalaria is a major public health concern in Ethiopia, and its incidence could worsen with the spread of the invasive mosquito species Anopheles stephensi in the country. This study aimed to provide updates on the distribution of An. stephensi and likely household exposure in Ethiopia.MethodsEntomological surveillance was performed in 26 urban settings in Ethiopia from 2021 to 2023. A kilometer-by-kilometer quadrant was established per town, and approximately 20 structures per quadrant were surveyed every 3 months. Additional extensive sampling was conducted in 50 randomly selected structures in four urban centers in 2022 and 2023 to assess households’ exposure to An. stephensi. Prokopack aspirators and CDC light traps were used to collect adult mosquitoes, and standard dippers were used to collect immature stages. The collected mosquitoes were identified to species level by morphological keys and molecular methods. PCR assays were used to assess Plasmodium infection and mosquito blood meal source.ResultsCatches of adult An. stephensi were generally low (mean: 0.15 per trap), with eight positive sites among the 26 surveyed. This mosquito species was reported for the first time in Assosa, western Ethiopia. Anopheles stephensi was the predominant species in four of the eight positive sites, accounting for 75–100% relative abundance of the adult Anopheles catches. Household-level exposure, defined as the percentage of households with a peridomestic presence of An. stephensi, ranged from 18% in Metehara to 30% in Danan. Anopheles arabiensis was the predominant species in 20 of the 26 sites, accounting for 42.9–100% of the Anopheles catches. Bovine blood index, ovine blood index and human blood index values were 69.2%, 32.3% and 24.6%, respectively, for An. stephensi, and 65.4%, 46.7% and 35.8%, respectively, for An. arabiensis. None of the 197 An. stephensi mosquitoes assayed tested positive for Plasmodium sporozoite, while of the 1434 An. arabiensis mosquitoes assayed, 62 were positive for Plasmodium (10 for P. falciparum and 52 for P. vivax).ConclusionsThis study shows that the geographical range of An. stephensi has expanded to western Ethiopia. Strongly zoophagic behavior coupled with low adult catches might explain the absence of Plasmodium infection. The level of household exposure to An. stephensi in this study varied across positive sites. Further research is needed to better understand the bionomics and contribution of An. stephensi to malaria transmission.Graphical

Prevalence of Open Defecation Practice and Associated Factors Among Households in Geshiyaro Project Implementation Sites in Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Open defecation is a significant global challenge, impacting public health, environmental sanitation, and social well-being, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Ethiopia. It is the second-largest cause of disease burden worldwide by facilitating the spread of germs that cause diarrhea diseases. Studies examining open defecation practices are insufficient, especially in areas implementing Ethiopia's Geshiyaro project. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the status of open defecation practice and associated factors in the study area. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June to July 2023. The total number of households included in this study was 7995. A structured questionnaire and observational checklist were used to collect data. Descriptive and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed using STATA version 16. The study found that 16.5% of households practiced open defecation. The following factors were significantly associated with the occurrence of open defecation: residence (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.26-1.92), education (AOR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.49-0.72), age (AOR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.41-0.69), knowledge on diarrhea prevention (AOR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.17-1.50), marital status (AOR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.32-1.97), and awareness creation about WASH services (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.71-2.25). On the other hand, no significant association was observed between the occurrence of open defecation and the household's income (AOR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.93-1.23) or the head of household sex (AOR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.78-1.12). Open defecation remains a critical public health concern in Ethiopia's Geshiyaro project sites. Various factors influencing this practice have been identified. Targeted interventions are needed to enhance access to safe sanitation facilities and promote awareness of WASH services, aligning with SDG 3 target 3, and SDG 6 target 2.

Rabies suspected human cases in and around Jimma zone, south west Ethiopia

Rabies, a viral disease affecting warm-blooded animals, poses a significant public health concern in Ethiopia, particularly concerning human transmission through dogs. To shed light on the status of suspected rabies cases in humans in the Jimma zone and surrounding areas, a retrospective study was conducted at the Jimma Town Health Center from November 2021 to May 2022. The area's rabies status had been unknown since 2012. From 2019 to 2022, a total of 2,223 suspected human rabies cases were recorded at the Health Center, with Jimma town and Xiro Afeta districts of Jimma zone reporting the highest (62%) and lowest (0.3%) numbers, respectively. Of these cases, 96.9% (2,155) resulted from dog bites, with children under 15 years old constituting the majority (52.8%) of victims. Town areas accounted for 66.8% (1,378) of the cases. Significantly variable occurrences were observed in relation to religious category, season, source of exposure, affected body part, and districts within the Jimma zone (P=0.000). The main challenges identified included an increase in stray dog populations, the absence of control centers, lack of awareness about pre-exposure vaccination for owned dogs, a scarcity of rabies vaccine in local veterinary services, and the unavailability of post-exposure prophylaxis at district health centers. Addressing these issues through awareness campaigns for dog owners on pre-exposure vaccination and ensuring the provision of post-exposure prophylaxis to all district health centers is crucial for controlling and preventing rabies in the study area. Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. 2023, 9 (4), 126-133

Antenatal Care Reduces Neonatal Mortality in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies.

Neonatal deaths remain a serious public health concern in Ethiopia; being one of the top five countries contributing to half of the neonatal deaths worldwide. Although antenatal care (ANC) is assumed as one of the viable options that contribute to neonatal survival, findings from original studies indicated disparities in the effect of ANC on neonatal mortality. Thus, this review aimed to determine the pooled effect of ANC on neonatal mortality in Ethiopia. Databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, HINARI, and Cochrane Central Library were searched for articles using keywords. Selection of eligible articles and data extraction were conducted by an independent author. The risk of a bias assessment tool for non-randomized studies was used to assess the quality of the articles. Comprehensive meta-analysis version 2 software was used for meta-analysis. Heterogeneity and publication bias of included studies were assessed using I2 test statistic and Egger test, respectively. The random-effect model was employed; an outcome is reported using a risk ratio with a 95% confidence interval. Of 28 included studies, 20 showed receiving at least one ANC visit had a significant association with neonatal mortality. Accordingly, the estimated pooled risk ratio for neonatal mortality was 0.59 (95% CI 0.45, 0.77) among infants born to women who had at least one ANC visit compared to infants born to women who had no ANC visits. This finding indicated that neonatal mortality was decreased among infants born to women who had at least one ANC visit compared to infants born to women who had no ANC visit. Therefore, promoting and strengthening ANC service utilization during pregnancy would accelerate the reduction of neonatal mortality in Ethiopia.

Micronutrients and socio-demographic factors were major predictors of anaemia among the Ethiopian population.

Anaemia is characterised by low hemoglobin (Hb) concentration. Despite being a public health concern in Ethiopia, the role of micronutrients and non-nutritional factors as a determinant of Hb concentrations has been inadequately explored. This study focused on the assessment of serum micronutrient and Hb concentrations and a range of non-nutritional factors, to evaluate their associations with the risk of anaemia among the Ethiopian population (n 2046). It also explored the mediation effect of Zn on the relation between se and Hb. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify the relationship between serum micronutrients concentration, inflammation biomarkers, nutritional status, presence of parasitic infection and socio-demographic factors with Hb concentration (n 2046). Sobel-Goodman test was applied to investigate the mediation of Zn on relations between serum se and Hb. In total, 18·6 % of participants were anaemic, 5·8 % had iron deficiency (ID), 2·6 % had ID anaemia and 0·6 % had tissue ID. Younger age, household head illiteracy and low serum concentrations of ferritin, Co, Cu and folate were associated with anaemia. Serum se had an indirect effect that was mediated by Zn, with a significant effect of se on Zn (P < 0·001) and Zn on Hb (P < 0·001). The findings of this study suggest the need for designing a multi-sectorial intervention to address anaemia based on demographic group.

Bacteriological and physicochemical quality of drinking water and associated risk factors in Ethiopia

The problem of drinking water quality is critical public health concern in Ethiopia in which poor sanitation and the use of contaminated water are blamed for 80% of disease cases. This is very important for monitoring water supply to identify and address any potential contaminants as well as investment in infrastructures and treatment technology that can improve water quality. This review aimed to evaluate the quality of drinking water in Ethiopia based on the concentration status of physicochemical and bacteriological parameters and its risk factors. Different studies in most parts of Ethiopia indicated that physicochemical quality of drinking water meet the prescribed standard limit, but in some parts of Ethiopia, water did not meet quality standard. Accordingly, an overall coliform count of drinking water in different areas of Ethiopia indicated that drinking water was at risk. Microbiological implications in the country showed that considerable amounts of drinking water were tainted with E. coli and fecal coliforms, which indicated the existence of dangerous pathogens. The quality issues several parts of Ethiopia were significantly influenced by poor handling practices. Consequently, proper handling practices of drinking water both at the source and point of use is essential to have a safe water supply and thereby protect public health. In order to guarantee that people have access to safe and clean water. The review’s findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced water quality monitoring and treatment in Ethiopia.

Magnitude and Risk Factors Associated with Adolescent Pregnancy in Ethiopia

Teenage pregnancy occurs in girls between the ages of 13–19 years and is a major cause of newborn and maternal mortality in developing countries. This study examined the prevalence and risk factors associated with early childbearing among teenage girls in Ethiopia. A Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) was conducted and a two-stage cluster sampling design was used to select the sample, and multilevel logistic regression models were used to identify the risk factors associated with early childbearing. There was a 10.26% prevalence of early childbearing among Ethiopian girls. Girls who married below the age of 15 and between 15-17 years to poor and middle-income partners, did not use contraceptives while those with primary, secondary, and higher education were less associated with early childbearing in Ethiopia. This study reveals that teenage childbearing is a major public health concern in Ethiopia. Hence, the government should implement policies to limit prevalence through formal education, and improve access to reproductive health education and contraception, especially among teenage girls from the poorest households.

Prevalence, spatial distribution and determinants of infant mortality in Ethiopia: Findings from the 2019 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey.

Infant mortality declined globally in the last three decades. However, it is still a major public health concern in Ethiopia. The burden of infant mortality varies geographically with the highest rate in Sub-Saharan Africa. Although different kinds of literature are available regarding infant mortality in Ethiopia, an up to date information is needed to design strategies against the problem. Thus, this study aimed to determine the prevalence, show the spatial variations and identify determinants of infant mortality in Ethiopia. The prevalence, spatial distribution, and predictors of infant mortality among 5,687 weighted live births were investigated using secondary data from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey 2019. Spatial autocorrelation analysis was used to determine the spatial dependency of infant mortality. The spatial clustering of infant mortality was studied using hotspot analyses. In an unsampled area, ordinary interpolation was employed to forecast infant mortality. A mixed multilevel logistic regression model was used to find determinants of infant mortality. Variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were judged statistically significant and adjusted odds ratios with 95 percent confidence intervals were calculated. The prevalence of infant mortality in Ethiopia was 44.5 infant deaths per 1000 live births with significant spatial variations across the country. The highest rate of infant mortality was observed in Eastern, Northwestern, and Southwestern parts of Ethiopia. Maternal age between 15&19 (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.51, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.37, 4.61) and 45&49(AOR = 5.72, 95% CI: 2.81, 11.67), having no antenatal care follow-up (AOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.05, 2.79) and Somali region (AOR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.05, 7.36) were significantly associated with infant mortality in Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, infant mortality was higher than the worldwide objective with significant spatial variations. As a result, policy measures and strategies aimed at lowering infant mortality should be devised and strengthened in clustered areas of the country. Special attention should be also given to infants born to mothers in the age groups of 15-19 and 45-49, infants of mothers with no antenatal care checkups, and infants born to mothers living in the Somali region.

Hotspots and determinants of women’s discriminatory attitude towards people living with HIV; evidence from ethiopian demographic and health survey data

BackgroundHuman Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the major public health concern in Ethiopia with more profound effect on women. Discriminatory attitude towards people living with HIV (PLWH) impose a significant impact on patient outcomes and related issues. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the hotspot areas and determinant factors of women’s discriminatory attitude towards people living with HIV.MethodsAn in-depth secondary data analysis was conducted based on Ethiopian demographic and health survey (EDHS) 2016. A total of weighed 13,822 reproductive-age women were included in the analysis. The non-spatial analysis was conducted using Stata 16. A mixed effect multi-level logistic regression model was fitted to identify determinant factors of discriminatory attitude towards PLWH. A p-value < 0.2 and 0.05 were used as a cut-off point to declare statistical significance for the bi- and multi-variable regression models, respectively. Four separate models i.e. the null, individual, community level model, and a fourth combined model were fitted. Model comparison was done using deviance. Random effect parameters such as correlation coefficient, median odds ratio, and proportional change in variance were used to explain the variation between and within clusters. Global and local level spatial analyses were conducted using Global Moran’s index, GetisOrd Gi* statistics, and Spatial scan statistics were conducted.ResultsThe magnitude of women’s discriminatory attitude towards PLWH was 62.66% (95%CI: 60.12, 65.10). The discriminatory attitude of women towards PLWH was spatially clustered (Moran’s index = 0.41, P < 0.01). The hotspots of discriminatory attitude towards PLWH were detected in most parts of the Tigray region; Northern, and southeast borders of the Amhara region; Addis Ababa city; Central, Southern, and western Oromiya region; and East, south, and northeastern parts of South Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region (SNNPR). Being rural resident, and having no media exposure were positively associated while better educational statuses, better wealth index, unmarried, having comprehensive HIV knowledge, Orthodox religion fellow, and ever being tested for HIV were negatively associated with women’s discriminatory attitude towards people living with HIV.ConclusionDiscriminatory attitude of women towards PLWH was high in Ethiopia. Hotspots were detected in Amhara, Oromiya, SNNPR, Tigray regions, and Addis Ababa city. Socio-demographic, socio-economic, and HIV knowledge-related factors determine the women’s discriminatory attitude towards PLWH.

Disparities in micronutrient intake among children 6-23 months in Ethiopia: a multi-level analysis based on national survey data

Both micronutrient deficiency and undernutrition among children are priority areas of public health concern in Ethiopia. The main objective of this study was to examine the factors associated with disparities in micronutrients intake among children 6-23 months. Data were drawn from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS). A total of 3076 children aged 6-23 months were used for the present analysis. The outcome variable was multiple micronutrient intake, which was constructed based on the linear combination of six sets of variables (4 supplements and 2 food-based intakes). Mixed-effect Poisson regression model was used to assess the determinants of multiple micronutrient intakes. The regression results show that micronutrient intakes were lower among children of non-first birth order by 58% (IRR=0.492, 95% CI:0.441-0.550); higher for children who got antenatal care (ANC) service during pregnancy (RR=1.121 95%CI:1.027-1.224) and postnatal care service in the first two months after birth (RR=1.255, 95% CI:1.138-1.383). Other predictors included mother’s age (RR=1.246, 95%CI: 1.118-1.389), parity (RR=1.538, 95% CI:1.316-1.798), maternal education (RR=1.204, 95%CI:1.089-1.331, maternal work status, household wealth, and access to the radio. The results also showed a regional disparity in micronutrient intake. Given the huge adverse impacts of poor micronutrient intake, fortification (supply side) is suggested as one of the ways to enable households to get easy access to these essential micronutrients. In conjunction with this, improving knowledge and attitude mothers through continuous behavioral change communication approaches could make a significant impact on the uptake of micronutrient supplements.

Precancerous Lesion of the Cervix and Associated Factors Among Women of West Wollega, West Ethiopia, 2022.

BackgroundPrecancerous cervical lesion is an abnormality in the cells of the cervix that could eventually develop into cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is a public health problem that contributes to the death of women worldwide. In line with the high burden of the issue, the Ethiopian government had attempted to expand cervical cancer screening centers and recommendation of services to age-eligible as well as high-risk groups of women. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the prevalence of precancerous lesions of cervix cancer among women aged 30-49 years and associated factors in West Wollega.MethodFacility-based analytic cross-sectional study design was conducted in selected hospitals of West Wollega from January 1- February 20, 2022, among 339 women. A face-to-face interview was conducted and the presence or absence of precancerous cervical lesion was tested by visual inspection with acetic acid. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 25. Variable with P-value <.25 in the bi-variable analysis were entered into multivariable logistic regression. Results with a P-value ≤ .05 at 95% confidence level were considered for statistical significance.ResultThe prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions was 27.4% (95% CI: 22.7%32.1%). The mean standard deviation of participants was 35.22 +6.32 years. More than half (63.4%) and 67.6% of them were regarded as having good knowledge and a favorable attitude towards precancerous cervical lesions respectively. History of menstrual irregularity had two folds higher odds of being diagnosed with the precancerous cervical lesion when compared with counterparts at, [AOR = 2.29(95% CI:1.29-4.04]. Women with a history of STI had 3.5 times higher odds of developing precancerous cervical lesion compared to women with no history of STI [AOR)=3.46(95% CI:1.94-6.18)], history of bleeding after sexual intercourse was 2.88 times more likely to have precancerous cervical lesion compared to those without it at [AOR=2.88(95% CI:1.43-5.78)]. Parity greater than or equal to five had 2.4 times higher odds of developing precancerous cervical lesions compared to women with parity less than five at [AOR=2.41(95% CI: 1.23-4.75)]. History of steroid use had 3.5 times higher odds of developing precancerous cervical lesion compared with opponents at [AOR=3.5(95% CI: 1.32-9.34) and women with an Unfavorable attitude towards screening for Cervical cancer screening, prevention, and control methods had 2.2 times higher odds of developing precancerous cervical lesion compared their counterpart at [AOR=2.15(95% CI: 1.21-3.83)].ConclusionThe precancerous cervical lesions continue to be a significant public health concern in Ethiopia. It will remain a significant cause of death of women unless effective screening methods like VIA and vaccination against HPV are scaled up. Furthermore, having a history of menstrual irregularities, STI, bleeding after coitus, parity greater than ≥5, steroid use, and having an unfavorable attitude towards screening factors are significantly associated with the occurrence of the precancerous lesion. Therefore, effective prevention approaches have to consider these factors for the control of cervical cancer in the early phase of the lesion.

Sleep quality and associated factors among adult patients with epilepsy attending follow-up care at referral hospitals in Amhara region, Ethiopia.

Globally, epilepsy is the commonest neurological disorder in adults. It has significant health and economic consequences to the affected individuals and the family. There is ample evidence that epileptic patients are at increased risk of poor sleep quality than the general population. However, there is limited evidence on sleep quality among epileptic patients and associated factors in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study investigated the prevalence of poor sleep quality and associated factors among adult patients with epilepsy. Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among adult epileptic patients attending follow-up care at referral hospitals in the Amhara region. A total of 575 epileptic patients were recruited using a stratified systematic random sampling technique. An interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire and record review were used for data collection. To assess sleep quality the pretested Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) tool was used. A binary logistic regression model was used to assess factors associated with poor sleep quality. Variables with a p-value less than 0.2 in the bivariable binary logistic regression analysis were considered for the multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. In the multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, the Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with the 95% Confidence Interval (CI) were reported to declare the statistical significance and strength of association. Model fitness was assessed using the Hosmer-Lemeshow test and was adequate (p>0.05). Multicollinearity of the independent variables was assessed using the Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) and the mean VIF was less than 10. A total of 565 participants were enrolled in the study with a response rate of 98.3%. The prevalence of poor sleep quality among adult epileptic patients was 68.8% [95% CI: 64.8%, 72.5%]. In the multivariable binary logistic regression, being unable to read and write [AOR = 3.16, 95%CI: 1.53, 6.51], taking polytherapy treatment [AOR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.37, 3.21], poor medication adherence [AOR = 2.53, 95%CI: 1.02, 6.23] and having poor support [AOR = 2.72, 95%CI: 1.53, 4.82] and moderate social support [AOR = 1.89, 95%CI: 1.05, 3.41] were significantly associated with higher odds of poor sleep quality. Poor sleep quality is a major public health concern in Ethiopia. The patient's level of education, number of medication use, medication adherence, and social support were found significant predictors of poor sleep quality. These findings highlight improving medication adherence and social support are effective strategies to improve the sleep quality of epileptic patients. Besides, it is better to give special emphasis to those epileptic patients with a low level of education and taking polytherapy to enhance sleep quality.

Infant and young child feeding practices in Ethiopia: analysis of socioeconomic disparities based on nationally representative data

BackgroundUndernutrition among children is a priority area of public health concern in Ethiopia. The purpose of this study was to examine disparities in Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices among children 6–23 months.MethodData were drawn from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS). A total of 3240 children aged 6–23 months were used for the present analysis. The outcome variable was IYCF practice score (ranging 0–7) which was constructed based on the linear and combined effects of four sets of variables: breastfeeding, avoidance of bottle feeding, diet diversity score and minimum feeding frequency. IYCF practice score was further recoded into three categories. Proportional odds regression was used to assess the determinants of IYCF category.ResultsThe proportional odds regression analysis showed that IYCF scores significantly decreased by 5% (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 0.95; 95% CI: 0.93–0.97) for every unit increase in the child’s age. Households with fathers of primary and secondary and above level education were 1.37 times (95% CI: 1.14–1.66) and 1.67 times (95% CI: 1.26–2.23) more likely to be in the high IYCF category than in the poor IYCF category. The likelihood of being in the high IYCF practice category decreased for non-working mothers by 30% (AOR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.59–0.83) compared to those working in gainful employment. The chance of being in the high IYCF practice category decreased by 29% for households with no access to radio (AOR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.59–0.85). Those with medium and rich/richer wealth category were 1.54 times (95% CI: 1.22–1.94) and 1.40 times (95% CI: 1.11–1.75) more likely to belong to high IYCF practice category than being in poor IYCF category. For every unit increase in health service utilization, the chance of falling in higher IYCF category increases by 1.15 times (95% CI: 1.08–1.23). The chance of falling in higher IYCF practice category decreases for rural residents by 37% (AOR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.47–0.84) compared to those residing in urban areas.ConclusionFor a child, the first two years is the time span during which linear faltering of growth is most prevalent and the period when the process of becoming stunted is almost complete. This study recommends improving access to women for gainful employment, provision of economic support to poor rural women, education and promotion of nutrition messages using most accessible media and boosting the positive role of fathers in child feeding practices.