Kabul City Research Articles

A Qualitative Study on the Effects of Health Literacy in Population with Hypertension at Blossom Health Care Center, Kabul City, Afghanistan

A Qualitative Study on the Effects of Health Literacy in Population with Hypertension at Blossom Health Care Center, Kabul City, Afghanistan

URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND WASTE MANAGEMENT PLANNING IN KABUL NEW CITY, AFGHANISTAN: A CASE STUDY

The municipal solid waste collection system and services of existing Kabul City are not acceptable socially, economically, and environmentally. This study was carried out in 2020–2021 for the Phase-1 area of Kabul New City (KNC). The study aims to analyze different MSWCSS for the KNC area and choose the best option during the planning stage. The average incremental cost for different collection systems was determined, and the results show that the total annualized cost (AN) of the proposed waste collection system (PWCS) is 855.3699 AFN/tonne, while the total operation and maintenance cost (OP) is 577.1235 AFN/tonne. The AN and OP of the stand-alone underground waste collection system (SAUWCS), tailored collection point system, traditional (prevailed) system, and alley waste collection system (AWCS) are 911.3032 AFN/tonne and 499.9017AFN/tonne, 1,681.762 AFN/tonne and 1,267.28 AFN/tonne, 308.9254 AFN/tonne and 186.3363 AFN/tonne, and 716.7706 AFN/tonne and 410.5375 AFN/tonne, respectively. The social and environmental analysis for the PWCS, SAUWCS, existing system, and AWCS obtained scores of 19, 29, -6, 17, and -5, respectively. From the cost-benefit analysis, it has been proposed that for the PWCS of low-rise residential areas, three wheelie bins of different colors will be provided to each housing unit. The total costs per tonne of solid waste for the PWCS, SAUWCS, TCPS, and traditional system are 2,832.1952, 3,638.137205, 3,888.6272, 751.45984, and 1,975.8152, respectively. For the PWCS of residential areas, chute waste collection systems are planned for high-rise apartment buildings and SAUWCSs are planned in commercial areas.

Investigating groundwater recharge using hydrogen and oxygen stable isotopes in Kabul city, a semi-arid region

There are significant concerns about the sustainability of groundwater, and the inhabitants that depend on it, due to rapid groundwater depletion from the alluvium aquifers in Kabul city. Sustainable groundwater management in Kabul requires an understanding of the sources and rates of groundwater recharge, however, both these parameters are poorly quantified. In this study, we examined the stable isotopic composition (δ18O and δ2H) of groundwater and surface water from the Upper Kabul River and Logar River. Utilizing the hydrograph separation approach, we assessed the percentage contribution of river water to groundwater, including the uncertainty analysis of its estimation. Our results, based on isotopic analysis, demonstrated that precipitation was the primary source of groundwater recharge in the Central Kabul sub-basin. Mixed recharge from the river, precipitation and irrigation return flow governed groundwater recharge in the Logar sub-basin. In Paghman and Lower Kabul, and Upper Kabul sub-basins, more rainfall input was observed besides the river contribution to groundwater recharge. We have noted substantial spatial and depth-related variation in the contribution of the river water to groundwater recharge. In the study area, the river water contribution (fraction contribution) to groundwater recharge has changed from over 60 ± 5 % (on average) in 2007 to less than 50 ± 5 % (on average) in 2020. We documented significant groundwater level depletion in the Central Kabul sub-basin and western parts of Kabul city (Paghman and Upper Kabul sub-basins). The present study provides important insights into the local water cycle in Kabul City, which is critical for developing sustainable management strategies for groundwater sources in this semi-arid region.

Identifying Parenting Styles of Parents in Kabul City

Identifying Parenting Styles of Parents in Kabul City

A Cross-sectional Study of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Rabies Among Residents of Kabul City, Afghanistan

Objectives: The main aim of the present study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of Kabul City residents towards Rabies. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was carried out from September to December 2022. Eight of the 22 districts of Kabul city were selected, and after oral consent was obtained, 400 questionnaires were filled out. The data were analyzed using MS Excel and SPSS software. Results: The results of the present study showed that 85% of the sample population have heard the name Rabies while, only 46% of them had information about the disease. Three-fourths of the participants knew that Rabies is transmitted by a suspected dog bite. Furthermore, only half of the interviewees knew that Rabies is a vaccine-preventable disease. Likewise, pet animal vaccination practice against Rabies was poor among dog and cat owners. Conclusion: It is concluded that community awareness and animal vaccination practice about the disease was poor especially, in the illiterate population of the city. A comprehensive awareness campaign across the country is needed to enhance community awareness regarding Rabies.

Narcotics Related Deaths in the Kabul Forensic Medicine Center in 2018 and 2019

Introduction: Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances are substances that, even in small quantities, can lead to substantial changes in the body, mind, or both. These substances have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and disrupt mood and perception. Examples of such substances include opiates, alcohol, hashish, cocaine, and 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (commonly known as ecstasy or the drug "K"). Deaths resulting from narcotic poisoning refer to cases in which one or more narcotics are found in the body. Objectives: obtaining the prevalence of death due to narcotic drugs and psychotropic in forensic cases Method: The research was conducted through descriptive cross sectional study in Kabul Forensic Medicine Center in the year 2019 and 2018. Results: Out of 2838 cases that were referred to the Kabul Forensic Medicine center in the year 2019 and 2018, (14%) were due to narcotic drugs and the rest were due to other causes of death. Deaths due to narcotic drugs in 2019, compared to 2018, showed an increase of 17.47%. The majority of cases were in the range of 21-40 years (an average of 30 years) which included 58.2 % of entire cases: 97% of the cases were males, 57.5% were single, most of them were unemployed (39.3%), low educated and illiterate cases were 53.39%, and the lowest cases were with higher education (8.98%). The highest incidence happened in the winter (51.69%), and the lowest in the summer (13.8%). The most common cause of narcotics-related death were opiates (75.7%) and a significant of the narcotics were MDMA (please mention the complete form at least once) (5.8%). Most cases occur in the first (17%), fifth (16%), eighth (15%) and third (11.65%) security districts of Kabul city Conclusion: narcotic -related death make up about one-seventh of all forensic cases, which are on the rise, mostly among young, male, single, illiterate, unemployed, and low-income people. Most of the causes of drug-related deaths are opium and addicts. The significant point of cases was MDMA (K tablet) (5.8%), which has become common among young people in recent years. Most incidents occur in the winter and from central and western parts of Kabul.

Selection of Bus Rapid Transit Corridor for Kabul City, Afghanistan: A Case Study

This thesis presents a comprehensive study on the selection of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor in Kabul. The objective of this study is to identify the most suitable corridor for BRT implementation, based on the needs and preferences of the local population, as well as the technical and operational requirements of the BRT system. The study employed a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, including field surveys, interviews, and literature reviews. A multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework was used to analyze the data, taking into account a variety of factors including travel demand, land use characteristics, road infrastructure, and environmental implications. The results of the study indicate that [Kote Sangi-Deh Afghanan-Sara Shamali] is the most suitable corridor for BRT implementation, based on its high travel demand, mixed land use characteristics, and existing road infrastructure. The study also identified a set of key success factors and challenges for BRT implementation in the selected corridor, such as the need for adequate financing and institutional support, the importance of stakeholder engagement and public awareness, and the need for effective integration with other modes of transport. The present methodology combines both, existing travel demand estimates and feasibility analysis in terms of traffic and road infrastructure characteristics for the selection and phasing of BRT corridors. Overall, this study contributes to the body of knowledge on BRT corridor selection, and it provides valuable insights for policymakers, planners, and transit professionals who are interested in implementing BRT systems in similar contexts. The study also highlights the importance of conducting rigorous and transparent selection processes that consider a range of factors, beyond technical and operational considerations, to ensure the success and sustainability of BRT systems.

Impact of air pollution on human health in Kabul City

Impact of air pollution on human health in Kabul City

The Relationship Between Empowerment and Social Support Among Pregnant Afghan Women: A Crosssectional Study in Kabul City, Afghanistan

Background and Purpose: Afghanistan experiences a significant maternal mortality rate, which could be mitigated through the empowerment of women and increased social support. This study aimed to explore the relationship between empowerment and social support among pregnant women seeking care at governmental hospitals in Kabul City, Afghanistan. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 4 governmental hospitals in Kabul, Afghanistan, in 2020. Through a convenient sampling, 428 pregnant women were recruited. The Kameda empowerment (Cronbach α=0.89) was used to measure woman empowerment. Sarason social support questionnaires with two subscales, including social support number (Cronbach α=0.95) and social support satisfaction (Cronbach α=0.96), were used to collect the study data. Then, the obtained data were analyzed using SPSS software, version 16, and the Pearson correlation test determined the association between variables at the significance level of P<0.05. Results: The study participants’ Mean±SD age was 26.55±5 years. Many were illiterate (28.3%), and more than half (79.7%) were homemakers. Almost two-thirds had no sources of income (71.3%). The Mean±SD gestational age was 32.16±5.04 weeks, and 77.6% of participants wanted their pregnancy. The Mean±SD score for empowerment from 428 research samples was 85.48±9.02, for social support number was 5.49±0.65 (which indicates the low number of people who support women), and for social support satisfaction was 1.5±0.43 (which indicates a low level of social support satisfaction). Empowerment had a positive significant relationship with social support satisfaction (r=0.157, P=0.01) and social support number (r=0.129, P=0.007). Conclusion: Given the significant positive relationship between empowerment and social support in pregnant Afghan women, the low scores of social support call for more attention to the special needs of Afghan women to enhance the social safety net and improve social support, particularly among pregnant women, and eventually enhance the empowerment and reduce the maternal mortality rate among them.

Preliminary discussion about the air pollution status in Afghanistan from Aerosol Optical Depth

Kabul city, the capital of Afghanistan, has suffered from poor air quality for the last two decades. This study focuses on Kabul’s spatiotemporal characteristics of aerosol optical depth (AOD). The annual and long-term 20 years of AOD data were retrieved from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) a combination of Terra and Aqua satellites using the Google Earth Engine geospatial analysis platform to determine seasonal variation and long-term trend of the aerosols. The air mass backward trajectories were calculated using the Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) model. Furthermore, ArcGIS 10.7.1 is used to visualize the AOD over the city. The results show high AOD in summer. However, autumn is recorded as the lowest average AOD season. In addition, the 20 years of data from 2001 to 2021 shows a slight increase in AOD. We suggest that the increase in AOD in the city is due to the rapid growth of the population. The cross-boundary atmospheric aerosols affect the air quality in the city.

Socioeconomic Impacts of Development-Induced Displacement on Informal Settlement in Qalacha Khamdan, Kabul City, Afghanistan

Development-induced displacement projects mainly involved locations with informal settlements, especially slum and squatter areas which left behind many socioeconomic impacts on displacement households. This forced displacement has caused breaking living patterns and social networks, destroying economic status, increasing infectious diseases, and other severe health problems. Many development projects, such as dam projects, airports, and road projects, have been implemented since 2001 in Afghanistan. The Kabul-Logar Road extension project, located on the southern side of Kabul city, has foreseen will destroy the existing socioeconomic status of Qalacha Khamdan's dwellers. Therefore, this paper examines the socioeconomic impacts of development-induced displacement on informal settlements in Qalacha Khamdan by the Kabul-Logar Road extension project. Data has been collected through site observation, questionnaires survey of heads of families affected, interviews with key informants, committees’ members, and some data from Cernea's model (IRR). The finding shows that the displaced population has lost social cohesion, social ties, close connectivity with brothers, relatives and neighbourhoods, businesses, valuable lands and well-designed homes. Finally, this study argues for more government and private sector involvement to manage the socioeconomic impacts of development-induced displacement after displacement.

Oral hygiene status among 5 to 15-year-old children stomatology National Hospital in Kabul city

: The practice of oral hygiene needs to be strengthened during adolescence, a time when there is a significant change in habits, leading to an increase in the prevalence of tooth decay associated with less frequent brushing. The propose of the study is to determine the oral hygiene status in 5-15-year-old children, the lack of the previous data in this field is one the reasons for conducting this research so that we can provide accurate statistics data in Afghanistan.: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between 5-15-year-old in 431 children of stomatology national hospital of Kabul city. Sample size was selected randomly from both gender group which were 161 males and 270 females. Oral hygiene status was assessed by using simplified-oral hygiene index. Gingival index (loe and silness, 1963) was used for assessing gingival status. dmf and DMF for decayed, missed and filled teeth in primary and permanent dentition used to assess the prevalence of dental caries. Statistical analysis done by SPSS .20.21.2% of children had good oral hygiene status, 65.2% fair oral hygiene and 13.6% had poor oral hygiene. The mean OHI-S was 2.4±1.19. There is no Statistical significant difference between gender and oral hygiene status (p<0.05). The prevalence of dental caries was 80.9%. Boys mean dmf was 4.15±3.03 and it was in girls 3.05±2.67, that shows higher prevalence of dental caries in boys than girls. Overall mean of dmf scores was 3.48±2.86. 173 (40.9%) had normal gums. 31.6% of children not brush their teeth, 37.4% brush once in a day.: Oral hygiene status was fair in more than half of the sample size. High prevalence of dental caries seen in males. Dental caries is a major public health problem and an active and effective dental care prevention program for children is needed.

The effects of dual-strain probiotics on the weight gain in premature neonates of Kabul City: A randomized clinical trial

BackgroundPrematurity is prevalent worldwide and accounts for the leading cause of neonatal death. Preterm neonates face numerous challenges, including slow weight gain, prolonged hospital stays, and high mortality. Dual-strain probiotics containing Bifidobacterium bifidum and Clostridium butyricum can manage such complications of prematurity. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of dual-strain probiotics consisting of Bifidobacterium bifidum and Clostridium butyricum on the weight gain of preterm neonates in Kabul City. MethodsThis randomized clinical trial was conducted at the Neonatal Units of Malalai Maternity and Maiwand Teaching Hospitals in Kabul City. Finally, 84 preterm neonates were assessed for the effects of dual-strain probiotics. The clinical parameters were daily weight gain and the risks of feeding intolerance and neonatal mortality. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS 26. ResultsForty-two premature neonates in the probiotics group and another forty-two preterm babies in the control group were investigated. In the probiotic group, 250 mg or 25 × 108 CFU of dual-strain probiotics dissolved in 1–3 ml milk were given twice daily for three weeks. At the time of intervention, the preterm neonates in the probiotics versus control group had a mean age of (7 ± 3.3 vs 6.8 ± 3.3 days; P = 0.69), weight of (1497.5 ± 272 vs 1483.3 ± 271 g; P = 0.8) and gestational age of (33.6 ± 2 vs 33 ± 2.4 weeks; p = 0.31). Gender distribution in the probiotics group was (boys 54.8%, girls 45.2%) and in the control group it was (boys 50%, girl 50%). The premature newborns in the probiotics versus control group had a higher mean daily weight gain (15.5 ± 9.4 vs 10 ± 7.9 g; P = 0.001), lower mean age to reach full enteral feeds (8.74 ± 3.08 vs 10.81 ± 3.43 days, P = 0.005) and lower mean hospital stays (10.02 ± 4.68 vs 12.81 ± 4.86 days, P = 0.009) . The risk ratios of feeding intolerance and mortality during the hospital stays were (RR=0.59, P = 0.71) and (RR=0.67, P = 0.5) in probiotics and non-probiotics groups respectively. ConclusionDual-strain probiotics consisting of Bifidobacterium bifidum and Clostridium butyricum significantly improved the daily weight gain, and decreased the time to full enteral feeding and admission days for premature neonates.

Investigation of the Physical and Chemical Properties of Underground Water in Kabul City

The objective of this research is to assess the quality of underground water in Kabul city in terms of health and compliance with WHO and other relevant standards. To evaluate underground water quality in Kabul city, 25 water samples are collected from various locations. Advanced instruments such as the HQ440d Multi-Meter, Turbidity Meter, Conductivity Meter, and Wag-WE10500, along with reagents like Alkali Solution and Calcium and Magnesium indicator Solution, are used to measure different chemical and physical parameters of the water. Various tests are conducted in the field and laboratory. Chemical parameters including bicarbonate, sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, fluorine, potassium, chlorine, chloride, arsenic, and nitrate are evaluated. Some parameters, such as fluoride, iron, arsenic, sodium, potassium, and chlorine, are within permissible limits for underground water in Kabul. However, findings confirm previous concerns about deteriorating water quality, including increased water hardness and nitrite levels. Parameters such as chloride, nitrite, total hardness, sulfite, and magnesium exceed permissible limits in most areas, including Kabul. Additionally, physical parameters like turbidity, conductivity, TDS, electrical conductivity, alkalinity, acidity, color, taste, smell, and temperature are assessed. All chemical and physical parameters are compared against WHO, S.EPA, ANSA, E.U, IL standards, and the results are presented in a chart for clarity. Comparisons with established standards are analyzed and discussed.

An Evaluation of Space Use Efficiency in Residential Houses, Kabul City

Space efficiency is one of the significant segments of building that requires consideration. This study focuses on the evaluation of space use efficiency in existing residential buildings and seeks to look at the current space use practices in interior design. The study analyzes (1) how the interior space of buildings is used. (2) Considering the architectural guidelines to evaluate the space deficit of buildings. Therefore, the study takes the form of a literature review, with direct observation used for data collection. A total of six residential houses were observed, with interior space dimensions and areas measured using measurement tools. Comparative analysis is a technique used for data analysis. The findings of this study revealed that most residential buildings are not meeting space use regulations and standards ascribed to not considering the interior design process and governmental building guidelines. Most of the constructed buildings were not properly designed, the architectural design procedure was not considered. The study concluded with suggestions for raising public awareness about architectural design significance, imposing governmental regulation and building laws, and eradicating nonengineered construction in the city. Findings will serve clients and municipalities; policymakers should concentrate on public awareness and imposing building laws to ensure affordable houses in Kabul city.

Kabil Şehri’nde yaşayanlar arasında COVİD-19 aşılarına yönelik tutum ve kabul kabulü: Kesitsel bir çalışma

Objective: The present study aimed to assess the attitude and perception of Kabul city’s residents toward COVID-19 vaccines hesitancy and acceptance. Methods: Applying a cross-sectional study design, the data was collected from 665 participants in Kabul city using a predesigned validated questionnaire. For statistical analysis, Spearman correlation, chi-square, and logistic regression techniques were used. Results: Although the vaccine availability was limited for the public during the survey period, 70.5% of the participants were willing to receive COVID-19 vaccines. Meanwhile, 49.2% participants were concerned about the COVID-19 vaccines side effects. The presence of positive COVID-19 cases among family members and friends (OR: 2.7), presence of fears during COVID-19 pandemic (OR: 4.4) and beliefs that vaccine has important and vital role in people’s protection against COVID-19 (OR: 5.3), increase the likelihood of vaccine acceptance among the participants. On the other hand, participant’s mistrust of the safety of COVID-19 vaccines (OR: 0.21) and disbelief on ministry of public health “MoPH” advice about COVID-19 vaccine safety and efficiency (OR: 0.27) decrease the odds of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among the respondents. In addition, a strong correlation was found between vaccine attitude and vaccine acceptance scales (Spearman ρ=0.52, p<0.001). Conclusion: Although majority of the participants were willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccines, due to high level of participant’s concerns about COVID-19 vaccines-related side effects, a great proportion of the respondents were hesitate to receive the COVID-19 vaccines. Accordingly, public awareness about COVID-19 vaccines must be increased to counteract incorrect and misleading propaganda about vaccination and immunization.

A Study on Urban Ethnic Segmentation in Kabul City, Afghanistan

The Pashtun, Tajik, and Hazara ethnic groups, divided into three zones, make up most of the ethnic segments in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. However, each ethnic settlement is subdivided into smaller geographical communities. In this research, we want to validate the existence of these ethnic communities and how these communities are valuable to the residents of Kabul city. We also aimed to analyze what facilities the community shares and why it is crucial to consider these communities while redeveloping the informal settlements in Kabul city. We did a literature review on ethnic segmentation, chose a case study in district 13 of Kabul, interviewed the residents and head of the community, and distributed socio-economic questionnaires made by the Ministry of urban development and land Afghanistan in three streets to determine how the ethnicities are subdivided. Ethnicities are divided into smaller sub-ethnic communities based on their migrated rural districts. People live together because of a communal identity known as Qawm. Each community shares a mosque, and to redevelop their areas, they want to be relocated near their current community of ethnicity. Moreover, ethnicity is a significant factor in choosing where to live in Kabul. Hence, the government policymaker must consider the importance of these communities in redeveloping informal settlements.

Psychological Impact of Mixed-use Housing Commercial Activities for Residential Area: in the Case of District 11 Kabul City

The urban population is increasing rapidly in most developing countries. Kabul as the capital and largest city of Afghanistan has been facing undesired urban issues due to its rapid population growth. According to the master plan of 1968, Kabul city was designed for two million people, but after the evolution of 2001, the city encountered to unexpected rising in population which reached almost five million, living in this city. For this reason, most of the low-rise residential houses are transferring to commercial and residential mixed-use housing. These housings are facing a lack of privacy and a good correlation between commercial and residential spaces. Therefore, as a significant matter, this paper studies the correlation of commercial with residential space, in the quest to determine which activities are suitable to be allocated in this type of housing and which activities are inappropriate based on cultural and regional fit. Additionally, a list of activities based on their suitability is classified in this paper which helps to segregate unsuitable activities accordingly. This study draws insights from primary data collection using questionnaires for Post Occupancy Evaluation, semi-structured interviews, and fieldwork observations in the mixed-use housing apartments and from the analysis of secondary data such as government documents.

Pottery studies in Kabul (Afghanistan) and its region from 100 BCE to 1000 CE

During the last ten years, intense archaeological activities have taken place both in the city of Kabul (Afghanistan) and on its outskirts. They presently highlight the development of this region from the 1st century CE, and especially the 5th century CE, onwards under the influence of important Buddhist monasteries. This presence was already known from excavations done during the 1930s, but in recent years, excavations on the Bala Hissar and the remains of Tepe Narenj and Qol-e-Tut, located on the slopes of Koh-e-Zanbourak (“the mountain of the small wasp”) south of the Kabul citadel, have revived the question of occupation. The establishment of a chronology based on clear criteria coming from new research on pottery allows us to rethink the first step of the occupation of Kabul and the Islamization of this region.

Health-related quality of life in persons with haemophilia in Afghanistan.

Haemophilia is the most common severe congenital bleeding disorder and can significantly influence patients' quality of life. The health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a multi-dimensional concept that assess effect of different aspects of health status, including physical, mental, and social domains. Identification of the factors affecting the HRQoL of Persons with Haemophilia (PWH) can guide health care system to better management of patients. The aim of the present study is to evaluate HRQoL in PWH in Afghanistan. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 PWH in Kabul City, Afghanistan. Data were collected using 36-Item-Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire and analysed using correlation coefficients and regression analysis. The mean scores for the SF-36 questionnaire 8 domains range from 33±38.3 to 58.15±20.5. The highest mean value belongs to physical function (PF) (58.15), whereas the lowest is related to restriction of activities due to emotional problems (RE) (33.00). A significant association (p<.005) was observed between all domains of SF-36 and patients' age except for PF (p=.055) and general health (GH) (p=.75). A significant association was also observed between all HRQoL domains and the severity of haemophilia (p<.001). The severity of haemophilia was the significant predictor for Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) (p<.001). Due to the reduced HRQoL in Afghan PWH, special attention by health care system should be paid to improve patients' quality of life.