Kampala International University Research Articles

Parents’ Economic Status and Undergraduate Selected Courses in Private Universities in Western Uganda. A Case study of Kampala International University Western Campus

Parents’ Economic Status and Undergraduate Selected Courses in Private Universities in Western Uganda. A Case study of Kampala International University Western Campus

New Trauma Score versus Kampala Trauma Score II in predicting mortality following road traffic crash: a prospective multi-center cohort study

IntroductionMortality due to injuries disproportionately impact low income countries. Knowledge of who is at risk of poor outcomes is critical to guide resource allocation and prioritization of severely injured. Kampala Trauma Score (KTS), developed in 1996 and last modified in 2002 as KTS II, is still widely being used to predict injury outcomes in resource-limited settings with no further revisions in the past two decades, despite ongoing criticism of some of its parameters. The New Trauma Score (NTS), a recent development in 2017, has shown potential in mortality prediction, but a dearth of evidence exist regarding its performance in the African population.ObjectivesTo compare NTS to the modified Kampala Trauma Score (KTS II) in the prediction of 30-day mortality, and injury severity amongst patients sustaining road traffic crashes in Ugandan low-resource settings.MethodsMulti-center prospective cohort study of patients aged 15 years and above. Of the 194 participants, 85.1% were males with a mean age of 31.7 years. NTS and KTS II were determined for each participant within 30-minutes of admission and followed-up for 30 days to determine their injury outcomes. The sensitivity, specificity, and area under receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) for predicting mortality were compared between the two trauma scores using SPSS version 22. Ethical clearance: Research and Ethics Committee of Kampala International University Western Campus (Ref No: KIU-2022-125).ResultsThe injury severity classifications based on NTS vs. KTS II were mild (55.7% vs. 25.8%), moderate (29.9% vs. 30.4%), and severe (14.4% vs. 43.8%). The mortality rates for each injury severity category based on NTS vs. KTS II were mild (0.9% v 0%), moderate (20.7% vs. 5.1%), and severe (50% vs. 28.2%). The AUC was 0.87 for NTS (95% CI 0.808–0.931) vs. 0.86 (95% CI 0.794–0.919) for KTS II respectively. The sensitivity of NTS vs. KTS II in predicting mortality was 92.6% (95% CI: 88.9–96.3) vs. 70.4% (95% CI: 63.0-77.8) while the specificity was 70.7% (95% CI: 64.2–77.2) vs. 78.4% (95% CI: 72.1–84.7) at cut off points of 17 for NTS and 6 for KTS II respectively.ConclusionsNTS was more sensitive but its specificity for purposes of 30-day mortality prediction was lower compared to KTS II. Thus, in low-resourced trauma environment where time constraints and pulse oximeters are of concern, KTS II remains superior to NTS.

Assessment of Factors Associated with Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among HIV Patients at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Ishaka, Uganda

HIV has increasingly become a chronic, manageable disease due to the introduction of antiretroviral therapies (ARTs). For the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy, a high level of adherence is required. This study therefore seeks to assess the adherence level and the influence of its determinants in HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy at the Kampala International University Teaching Hospital (KIUTH) HIV clinic in Ishaka, Uganda. Quantitative cross-section study approach was conducted to assess the factors associated with adherence to a-ntiretroviral therapy among HIV patients at KIUTH in Ishaka, Uganda. Data was collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire in 150 respondents in this study. The qualitative data collected was statistically analysed and documented using Microsoft Excel and Word version 2019, which were then analyzed. The analysed data was presented in the form of tables and graphs, which formed the basis for discussion and conclusion. Of a total of 150 clients interviewed, equal proportions of 26% were in the age groups of 40–49 and 50–59 years, with a mean age of 46 years. The majority (65%) were female, with most (45%) being Anglicans, followed by Catholics (32%), Muslims (14%), and other religions (9%). Nearly half (45.1%) of the respondents were married. About 7% had tertiary education, while 37% had completed the ordinary level of high school. Nearly half (47%) knew the name of the ART they were taking, while 17% did not. Less than a third (26.7%) did not know the name of the ART drug they were taking. A large proportion (93%) stated that ART prevents mother-to-child transmission of infection, while 7% reported that they did not know. Nearly all (96%) respondents knew HIV could be controlled by ART. The majority (87%) stated that taking ART prevents disease progression, and 63% opined that missing ART drugs can lead to transmission of the disease. Overall, adherence to ART was 39% while non-adherence was 61%. In conclusion, the study discovered a high degree of awareness but a low level of adherence to ART among patients living with HIV. Forgetfulness, financial level, employment status, and knowledge of the benefits of the intervention are all important factors in nonadherence among some HIV patients. As a result, ART clinics should increase the level of education provided to customers to encourage patients to take complete responsibility for their health status. Keywords: Adherence, Antiretroviral Therapy, HIV, AIDS

Students' Awareness of Waste Management Practices at Kampala International University

Students' Awareness of Waste Management Practices at Kampala International University

Selection and acquisition of grey literature in Kampala International University Library, Uganda

The study investigates the selection and acquisition of grey literature in Kampala International University-Uganda. Four research objectives and questions were formulated to guide the study. The literature was reviewed accordingly. A survey research method was adopted for the study. The population used was fifty respondents consisting of all library staff in the KIU library. No sampling technique was used since the entire population was used (census approach). We handed out a questionnaire called "How We Choose and Get Grey Literature at Kampala International University (SAGLKIULQ)" to gather data. The data collected was analyzed and interpreted using simple percentages due to the nature of the variables involved in the study. The finding revealed among others that lack of funds to acquire materials, poor handling, and manpower. The research work recommends that more funds should be made available or allocated to the library to enable the acquire materials for their collections.

Cover, Content, and Editorial Note from Borneo J Pharm Vol. 7 No. 2 May 2024

Assalamu’alaikum Wr. Wb. Alhamdulillahirabbil ‘alamin. The next edition of the Borneo Journal of Pharmacy (Borneo J Pharm), has been published in May 2024. This edition contains ten articles: Pharmacology-Toxicology, Pharmacognosy-Phytochemistry, Pharmaceutical, Analytical Pharmacy-Medicinal Chemistry, Microbiology Pharmacy, Natural Product Development, Clinical-Community Pharmacy, and Management Pharmacy. This edition includes writings from five countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Uganda. The authors come from several institutions, including Institut Teknologi Bandung, Universitas Darussalam Gontor, Universitas Koperasi Indonesia, Universitas Lambung Mangkurat, Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. DR. HAMKA, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Biomatics Indonesia, Indonesian Institute of Bioinformatics, Universitas Nasional, University of Ilorin, Summit University, Ambrose Alli University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Kampala International University, Premium Medical Services, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Clarke International University, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, International Islamic University Malaysia, Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar, Universitas Indonesia, Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Jakarta, National Research and Innovation Agency of the Republic of Indonesia, Menur National Mental Hospital, and East Java Provincial Health Service. Editorial boards are fully aware that there is still room for improvement in this edition, hence with all humility willing to accept constructive suggestions and feedback for improvements to the publication for the next editions. The editorial board would like to thank all editors and reviewers, and contributors of the scientific articles who have provided the repertoire in this issue. We hope that all parties, especially the contributors, could re-participate for publication in the next edition on August 2024. Wassalamu’alaikum Wr. Wb.

Genotyping the human papillomavirus and associated risk factors in mono- and co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus among women attending KIU-TH

The study set out to identify the circulating “high-risk HPV (Hr-HPV) genotype” and examine the risk factors linked to HPV/HIV co-infection and HPV single infection among women receiving medical attention at the Kampala International University Teaching Hospital (KIU-TH). A total of 114 women attending the KIU-TH Clinton Health Accesses Initiative (CHAI) and gynecology units were enrolled. Questionnaires were administered and information regarding the “risk factors associated with Hr-HPV infection” was collected. Subjects were examined for cervical cytological features with use of “visual inspection with acetic acid” (VIA) and Pap smears, and HPV genotype were assessed using the Xpert gene. The analysis of data was done using SPSS v29. The study hypotheses were tested at the common level of P ≤ 0.05. In this study, 37(32%) patients were positive for VIA, 28(24%) were Pap smear-positive, and 3(3%) and 2(2%) were atypical “squamous cells” of undetermined significant (ASCUS) positive for VIA and Pap smears, respectively. Furthermore, a study revealed that 20% of Hr-HPV was from co-infections and 10% from mono-infections. The circulating Hr-HPV genotype were HPV (17.2%), HPV16(9%), and HPV 18/45(7%). Results showed significant relationships (P < 0.05) between condom use, marital status and having many partners as “risk factors” and Hr-HPV infection. In contrast, age, education, vaccination, and educational level were not. This study revealed several factors linked to HPV infection and calls for the integration of cervical cancer screening using the combination of both VIA and Pap smear or gene Xpert, as well as creating awareness and implementation of vaccination programs within Bushenyi District and the country at large.

Prevalence of Adverse Drug Reactions in HIV/AIDS Patients on Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy in Bushenyi Medical Centre, Ishaka Adventist Hospital, and Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda

The World Health Organization (WHO) delineates an Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) as an unintended and harmful response to a drug when it is used for disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or physiological function modification in humans. This definition specifically excludes therapeutic failures, overdose, drug abuse, noncompliance, and medication errors. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of ADRs among HIV/AIDS patients undergoing Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) at Bushenyi Medical Centre, Ishaka-Adventist Hospital, and KIU Teaching Hospital in the Bushenyi district, western Uganda. Patient interviews were conducted using structured questionnaires. A cohort of 333 patients participated in the study. The investigation revealed a prevalence of ADRs at 13.5% (95% CI: 10.2-17.6). Among the 333 patients interviewed, 44 reported experiencing ADRs, with a significant 97.8% of these cases occurring in female patients. Importantly, individuals with co-morbidities had a 55.6-fold higher likelihood of developing ADRs compared to those without any co-morbid conditions (95% CI: 2.4-1286.7). Furthermore, the study indicated an increased risk of ADR development among patients starting HAART within the first year of treatment. In summary, our findings highlight the notable prevalence of ADRs among females, emphasizing the need for gender-specific initiatives to raise awareness and prevent ADRs. Regular monitoring is particularly important for patients with co-morbidities due to the established association between co-medication and susceptibility to ADRs. Additionally, adherence to HAART therapy is essential, as the incidence of ADRs tends to decrease over time. Keywords: Adverse drug reaction (ADR), HIV/AIDS, Co-morbidities, Anti-Retroviral Therapy, Uganda

Prevalence of Alcohol Use Disorders and Self Esteem Levels among Undergraduate Students: A Cross-Sectional Study at Kampala International University's Western Campus, Uganda

This cross-sectional study conducted at Kampala International University's Western Campus (KIU-WC) in Western Uganda aimed to investigate the prevalence of alcohol use disorders and assess self-esteem levels among undergraduate students. Utilizing the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale, data were collected from 366 participants to explore the relationship between alcohol consumption and self-esteem within the academic environment. Results revealed that 33.1% of participants acknowledged alcohol use, with 18.6% identified as being at a higher risk of alcohol use disorder. Among alcohol users, the prevalence of alcohol use disorders (AUDIT score ≥20) was 33.9%, leading to an overall prevalence of 11% across the entire undergraduate student population. Self-esteem scores ranged from 11 to 30, with a median of 18. Findings indicated that 7.9% of respondents exhibited low self-esteem, while 91% demonstrated normal self-esteem, and 1.1% showcased high self-esteem. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address alcohol use disorders and promote positive self-esteem among university students in Uganda. Keywords: Prevalence, Alcohol, Disorders, Self-esteem, Undergraduate Students, Uganda.

Socio-Economic and Demographic Determinants of Safe Sex Practices among Young Adults: Insights from Kampala International University, Western Campus

This study aimed to assess young adults' knowledge and practices that affect safe sex behavior among university students in Uganda, with a particular focus on Kampala International University Western Campus. The study was conducted at the university's Western Campus, involving medical students aged 19-25. The sample size was 249. The study used Raosoft's online sample size calculator and simple random sampling techniques to obtain respondents. Data collection involved self-administered questionnaires consisting of 29 closed-ended questions. The study found a negative relationship between socio-economic and demographic factors and safe sex behaviors among young adults at Kampala International University. However, the relationship between socio-demographic factors and safe sex behaviors was not statistically significant. The findings revealed a positive and significant relationship between knowledge, practice and safe sex behaviors among young adults at Kampala International University Western Campus. Recommendations include providing comprehensive sex education to all young adults at Kampala International University to enable them to learn about sexuality and the risks associated with it. Comprehensive sex education should be holistic, incorporating age-appropriate and culturally appropriate information about reducing the risk of being sexually unsafe. Keywords: Safe sex, young adult, university students, questionnaire, Uganda.

Assessment of Hospital Infection Prevention and Control Practices: Insights from Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Ishaka, Uganda

The study aimed to identify factors affecting hospital infection prevention and control practices among medical personnel at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Ishaka, Uganda. The research was conducted using a quantitative descriptive research design. The result revealed that 76% of respondents felt they had sufficient knowledge about infection control and prevention practices. However, 34% of respondents found precautionary measures interfered with their work, and 70% recap needles after use. Only 32% reported a 0.3% chance of acquiring HIV after a needle stick injury. The study also showed 44% of respondents had received training on hand washing within 6 months. Most respondents 78% were able to wash hands before and after procedures. Only 44% of respondents had received training on waste segregation within a 6-month period. Policies and guidelines also influenced infection prevention and control practices. 52% of respondents considered the hospital infection prevention and control committee active, and 78% of them believed that waste segregation and post-exposure prophylaxis policies were available in their departments. The study found that hand washing is being carried out as recommended due to adequate on-the-job training. However, 54% of staff perceive hand washing as a challenge, and 78% were able to wash hands before and after every procedure as recommended. Only 30% of workers have access to a regular supply of soap and detergents for washing hands. Waste segregation is being practiced as recommended, but challenges persist for medical personnel. The management team should integrate infection prevention and control into the regular supervision of healthcare providers. The study suggests that promoting hand washing in a hospital requires adequate training, facilities, supplies, staffing, and a positive attitude. It recommends frequent hand washing training, accessible running water infrastructure, disposable towels, and soap and detergents. Staff should be trained on attitude change and proper waste segregation. Keywords: Hospital, Infection, Waste, Hand washing, supplies, training.

Exploring Hepatitis B Vaccination Compliance, Knowledge, and Attitudes among Preclinical Medical Students: A Study at Kampala International University Western Campus

This study delves into the hepatitis B vaccination landscape among preclinical medical students at Kampala International University Western Campus, aiming to illuminate compliance, knowledge, and attitudes toward vaccination. Employing a robust cross-sectional study design and quantitative data collection methods, 296 participants were randomly selected and surveyed. Results unveiled a concerning low compliance rate of 46.28%, indicative of potential gaps in vaccination coverage within this high-risk cohort. Nonetheless, a notable 69.81% expressed willingness to receive the vaccine, hinting at a latent potential for heightened compliance. While 66.22% of students demonstrated adequate knowledge, a significant 33.78% exhibited knowledge gaps, underscoring the need for targeted educational initiatives. Despite apprehensions regarding side effects and cost, attitudes toward vaccination remained largely positive, with 90.54% affirming its safety and effectiveness. These findings spotlight the imperative for tailored interventions to bolster vaccination rates, rectify knowledge deficits, and mitigate barriers to compliance among preclinical medical students. Keywords: Hepatitis B virus infection; Vaccination compliance; vaccinated students; Hepatitis B vaccine; and medical students.

Protective Activity of Palm Oil Extracts against Dichlorvos Poisoning in Rats: Biochemical Parameters and Mechanisms of Action

Protective activity on biochemical parameters and possible mechanisms of action of palm oil extracts were investigated in orally Dichlorvos poisoned rats and the efficacy of treatments in the poisoned rats. The safety profile of the extracts was evaluated via acute toxicity studies which was done in two phases. To screen for phytochemicals, present in this extract. This study was carried out in Pharmacy and KIUTH laboratories, Kampala International University, Uganda. Wistar rats of both sexes, weighing 85g and above were used for the study. Selection of rats was done by simple random sampling. At the end of the administration, plasma biochemical parameters were measured as indices of organ toxicity. The red palm oil used in treatment of Dichlorvos poisoned rats caused a reduction in concentration of some of the biochemical parameters of the rats when given simultaneously compared to the kernel oil combinations. Administration of palm oil does not have prophylactic effect against the poison. However, it does seem to have similar protective effects against oxidative stress with ascorbic acid. In summary the administration of palm oil seemed to have limited ameliorative role against Dichlorvos poisoning in rats. Keywords: Dichlorvos, palm oil, palm kernel oil, rats, acute toxicity, oxidative stress.

Exploring Factors Influencing the Low Utilization of Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) Among Youths Attending Family Planning Clinics: A Case Study at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Bushenyi District.

This study investigates the factors contributing to the low utilization of intrauterine devices (IUDs) among youths aged 18–30 attending family planning clinics at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Bushenyi District, Uganda. Despite the global recognition of IUDs as a safe, cost-effective, and highly efficient contraceptive method, their adoption remains disproportionately low among youths in various regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The research employs a descriptive cross-sectional study design utilizing quantitative data collection methods. Data was gathered through questionnaires focusing on demographic characteristics, individual factors, and health facility-related factors associated with low IUD utilization. Findings reveal that only a small percentage of participants (15.7%) were utilizing IUDs, with factors such as education level, parity, awareness, alternative method usage, health education, and accessibility to services significantly influencing IUD utilization. Recommendations include increasing awareness, providing comprehensive health education, and improving accessibility to IUD services to promote their uptake among youths. Keywords: Family planning, IUDs, Youths, Contraceptive methods, Mothers.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Unwanted Pregnancies among Female Students between 15 and 35 Years at Kampala International University Western Campus Ishaka Bushenyi

An unwanted pregnancy is either mistimed or unwanted at the time of conception. It was a core concept in understanding the fertility of populations and the unmet need for contraception. In this context, low use of contraception and high rates of maternal mortality make preventing unwanted pregnancies critical. The study conducted by Global Health Action in 2018 revealed that the non-use of contraception among Ugandan university students differs for men and women. A systematic sampling method was used to select 300 participants, of whom all female students taking health science courses were selected. This study was an institutional-based cross-sectional study. The study showed that having good knowledge of contraceptive use at an odds ratio of 0.91 (0.24–1.47) and a p-value of 0.001 and proper use of contraceptives at a p-value of 0.004 and an odds ratio of 0.60 (0.36–6.67) were significant factors in reducing unwanted pregnancies. The study recommends that students should be encouraged to use family planning to reduce the occurrence of unwanted pregnancies. There should be continued sensitization of students about unwanted pregnancies and the dangers of early sex involvement. Keywords: Unwanted pregnancy, contraceptive use, Conception, Ugandan university students, Family planning.

Factors Influencing Antenatal Care Service Utilization among Pregnant Mothers: A Study at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Bushenyi District

Antenatal care (ANC) services play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of pregnant women and their unborn children, yet disparities exist in their utilization globally. This study investigates the factors influencing ANC service utilization among pregnant mothers attending Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Bushenyi District. A cross-sectional study involving 138 participants was conducted, employing descriptive analysis and logistic regression. Results revealed that only 40.6% of mothers had good ANC service utilization, with factors such as post-primary education, manageable cost of services, and knowledge of ANC services significantly associated with higher utilization rates. Conversely, lack of awareness about when to start ANC services and inadequate knowledge of ANC services were barriers to utilization. Additionally, multiparous women and those with a primary education level were less likely to utilize ANC services optimally. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions, including education outreach programs and improved accessibility to ANC services, to enhance maternal and fetal health outcomes. Keywords: Antenatal care, Utilisation, Hospital, maternal mortality, Pregnant mother.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices on HIV/AIDS Patient Care among Clinical Medical Students at KIUTH

Globally, HIV-related deaths have fallen, most likely due to the intervention of Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART). New HIV infections have fallen by about 35% since 2016, with approximately 180 000 newly infected in 2021, compared to approximately 270 000 in 2016. The study assessed knowledge, attitude, and practices on HIV/AIDS patient care among clinical medical students at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital (KIUTH). Using a questionnaire as a method of data collection, the descriptive study design included both male and female participants from a population of 322 people. The study showed that there was good knowledge of students on HIV patient care, as all the students knew how HIV is diagnosed at an odds ratio of 1.0 (0.5–4.22) and a p-value of 0.05, although 127 (70.6%) of those who had never taken care of people living with HIV didn’t know different HIV ART combinations. The study also showed good student attitudes towards HIV patient care, in which most students were willing to stay near HIV patients and treat them at an odds ratio of 0.7 (0.022–8.05) and a p-value of 0.444, but poor practices, in which only 142 (44.1%) had cared for HIV and 61.7% had never counselled HIV patients at an odds ratio of 1.5 (0.75-7.78) and a p-value of 024. In conclusion, the majority of the participants had knowledge, attitude, and practice of HIV patient care among clinical medical students. The study recommends that medical students should be given health education about patient care so as to increase their knowledge and capacity to look after patients. The study recommends that the government decentralise HIV services to low-level health centres so as to bring services closer to people. The study also recommends that there should be outreach to communities to do voluntary testing and counselling for the population to know the people who could be HIV positive but are not yet tested. Keywords: Assessment, Knowledge, Attitude, Practices, HIV/AIDS Patient, Clinical students.

Prevalence of dysmenorrhoea and its associated factors among female medical students at Kampala International University Western Campus

The study aimed to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and its associated factors among female medical students at Kampala international University–western campus. A descriptive cross sectional study design was conducted in order to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and its associated factors among female medical students at Kampala International University Ishaka. A cross sectional study is chosen due to its ability to provide quantitative data. The study was conducted among female medical students that is; those offering certificate, diploma and bachelor nursing at Kampala International University western campus Ishaka. The study sampled 259 respondents to represent the whole population. The data collected was statistically analyzed and documented using Microsoft Excel. The excel file was imported into a software Statistical Package Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Among the respondents 6.9% had experience their first menstrual period at age of 12, 37.8% of the respondents experience at age of 12-14, 44.8% of the respondents experience at age 15-16 while 10.4% of the respondents experience at age of 16. It was concluded that prevalence of the dysmenorrhea is high in our study population. So, from the study it can be concluded that dysmenorrhea is a very common problem among girls, such high prevalence makes dysmenorrhea a significant public health problem among young students that demands some attention from policy makers. The recommended that enlightenment programmes should be organized periodically by the school health nurses on the various management strategies for menstrual disorders and how to use them effectively. Keywords: dysmenorrhea, menstrual period and disorders

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Iron Deficiency Anaemia among Children Aged 6-23 Months in Southwestern Uganda.

Iron deficiency anaemia is still a global public health concern with the highest burden among children 6 to 23 months due to their rapid growth spurt exceeding breastmilk supply. Therefore, nutritional supply is a key source of iron to attain the required nutrients for better growth and development. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study done at Ishaka Adventist Hospital (IAH) and Kampala International University Teaching Hospital (KIUTH) from April to July 2022. Participants were consecutively enrolled in the study. Structured questionnaires, 24-hour dietary recall, and clinical assessment were used to obtain data. Data analysis was done using the statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) V22.0. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were done using logistic regression for associations with significance set at P value < 0.05. A total of 364 participants were enrolled, with the majority being males (198, 54.4%) and born at term (333, 91.5%). The modal age was 12-17 months [163(44.8%)] with a mean age of 14.1 months (SD 5.32). The overall prevalence of IDA was 151/364 (41.5%). The factors associated with IDA included male sex (aOR 1.61), current episode of diarrhoea (aOR 1.71), poor meal frequency (aOR 1.78), no vegetable consumption (aOR 2.47), and consuming fruits once (aOR 1.97) in 7 days preceding the study. The study finds a high prevalence of IDA among infants 6-23 months with at least four in 10 being affected. Screening for IDA should be recommended in male children with current diarrhoea, poor intake of fruits and vegetables, and poor meal frequency. The Mentzer index is an equally good alternative screening test for IDA.

Factors influencing Teenage Pregnancy among Girls attending Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Bushenyi, Uganda

Teenage pregnancy and subsequent childbirth to women less than 20 years of age continue to be a major global public health concern in both developed and developing countries, affecting more than 16 million girls and young women, or an estimated 11% of all births worldwide. This study determined the factors influencing teenage pregnancy among teenage girls aged 13–19 attending ANC at KIU-TH, Bushenyi District. A cross-sectional study design was employed for this study. Quantitative data was collected using structured interviews. Questionnaire tools were checked for their accuracy and data completeness, then the data was coded and entered into Epi Info version 7, then exported into SPSS version 22.0 for analysis. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify the determinant factors. A collinearity diagnostic test was conducted using tolerance to check for collinearity between independent variables and the interaction effect. Variables in the bivariable analysis having a p-value &lt;0.2 were considered for the multivariate analysis to adjust the confounders. The strength and presence of a statistical association were assessed by the OR, p-value, and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Variables with a p-value ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant determinants of teenage pregnancy. The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-offit test (p = 0.9289) was used to assess the fitness of the model. A total of 310 adolescents were included in the study, with a response rate of 100%. The majority (39.7%) were aged 16–17, and more than half (59.0%) were from rural areas. The proportion of teenage pregnancies among study participants was 19.0. In the multivariate logistic regression model, age, residence, parents’ marital status, level of education, monthly income, substance abuse, history of use of contraceptives, age of first sexual contact, and awareness of safe sex were statistically significant. The study showed a high prevalence of teenage pregnancy. Age, residence, parents’ marital status, level of education, monthly income, substance abuse, history of use of contraceptives, age of first sexual contact, and awareness of safe sex were found to have a statistically significant association. Keywords: Teenage pregnancy, Childbirth, Girls, Marital status, Age.