Semi-urban Community Research Articles

Cigarette Smoking Behaviors Among Residents of a Semi-Urban Community in Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand

Cigarette Smoking Behaviors Among Residents of a Semi-Urban Community in Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand

Seroprevalence and risk factors for Lassa virus infection in South-West and North-Central Nigeria: a community-based cross-sectional study.

Understanding the level of exposure to Lassa virus (LASV) in at-risk communities allows for the administration of effective preventive interventions to mitigate epidemics of Lassa fever. We assessed the seroprevalence of LASV antibodies in rural and semiurban communities of two cosmopolitan cities in Nigeria with poorly understood Lassa epidemiology. A cross-sectional study was conducted in ten communities located in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Abuja, and Ikorodu Local Government Area (LGA), Lagos, from February 2nd to July 5th, 2022. Serum samples collected from participants were analyzed for IgG and IgM antibodies using a ReLASV® Pan-Lassa NP IgG/IgM enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. A questionnaire administered to participants collected self-reported sociodemographic and LASV exposure information. Seroprevalence of LASV IgG/IgM was estimated overall, and by study site. Univariate and multivariate log-binomial models estimated unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for site-specific risk factors for LASV seropositivity. Grouped Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) was used for variable selection for multivariate analysis. A total of 628 participants with serum samples were included in the study. Most participants were female (434, 69%), married (459, 73%), and had a median age of 38 years (interquartile range 28-50). The overall seroprevalence was 27% (171/628), with a prevalence of 33% (126/376) in Abuja and 18% (45/252) in Lagos. Based on site-specific grouped LASSO selection, enrollment in the dry season (vs. wet; aPR, 95% CI: 1.73, 1.33-2.24), reported inconsistent washing of fruits and vegetables (aPR, 95% CI: 1.45, 1.10-1.92), and a positive malaria rapid test (aPR, 95% CI: 1.48, 1.09-2.00) were independently associated with LASV seropositivity in Abuja, whereas, only a self-reported history of rhinorrhea (PR, 95% CI: 2.21, 1.31-3.72) was independently associated with Lassa seropositivity in Lagos. The LASV seroprevalence was comparable to that in other areas in Nigeria. Our findings corroborate those from other studies on the importance of limiting human exposure to rodents and focusing on behavioral factors such as poor hygiene practices to reduce exposure to LASV.

Willingness to Pay for Solid Waste Collection in Bo District, Southern Sierra Leone: An Analysis of Influencing Factors

This study assesses the willingness to pay for solid waste management services in Bo District, Southern Sierra Leone. The research aims to identify the key factors influencing this willingness. Five semi-urban communities were selected based on their population size, and 60 household heads from randomly selected households were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. Using logistic regression analysis, we found that factors such as income, education, occupation, and satisfaction with the current waste management system had varying degrees of significance in influencing willingness to pay. However, variables such as mode of waste collection and age were found to have a significant effect. This study suggests that policymakers in Bo District should consider these factors when implementing fee-based waste collection services.

Menstruation Related Practices among Adolescent Girls and Women in a Semi-urban Area of Nepal

Background Menstruation is often associated with restrictions from different activities. Studies about extreme form of menstruation practices i.e. “Chhaupadi” have been widely done but other practices have been less studied. Thus, this study aimed to find out the menstruation related practices among adolescent girls and women in secondary schools in a semi-urban community of Nepal. MethodsThis was a descriptive cross-sectional study done at two secondary schools in a semi-urban community of Panauti municipality which were selected purposively. The duration of study was from 31st October 2022 to 15th November, 2022. Total 158 adolescent girls and women present at the study site who have had menarche were included in the study through census sampling. Ethical approval was taken from the Institutional Review Committee [Reference number: 36/22] of Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences. Self-administered semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect the information.ResultsAmong 158 study participants, menstrual restriction practice was followed by 155(98.66%) and most common restriction was not being allowed to worship or go to worshipping room 150 (96.77%). Most (68.98%) of the study participants said that their mother insisted them to follow such practices.Conclusions Menstruation related practices were common among the study participants and most common form of restriction was not being allowed to worship.

COVID-19 vaccination in low and middle-income countries: Creating a sustainable roadmap for promoting public health intervention.

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a global public health threat ravaging the health systems. In low and middle-income countries (LMICs), COVID-19 and several other challenges concurrently worsen the health outcome indicators. Interestingly, vaccines have been identified as the most reliable and cost-effective public health intervention, and the governments in LMICs have instituted an array of plans to ensure every eligible person gets vaccinated. However, there is still considerable apathy around the use of the available COVID-19 vaccines in LMICs which is impeding the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. In this paper, we explore the multiple interrelated factors behind low COVID-19 vaccination coverage in LMICs. It is therefore recommended that the governments in LMICs embrace multicomponent and wide-ranging strategies. This should involve utilising community-based approaches such as community pharmacy-led vaccination to promote community access to COVID-19 vaccines and to revive trust in national health authorities by offering population-specific, target-driven, transparent, and timely communication to the community who they serve about the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine. Communication strategies should be tailored to reflect diverse political orientations as this can enhance vaccine acceptance. Additionally, local political parties and representative should be engaged in broad alliances to facilitate community mobilisation and support for vaccination campaigns. Also, relevant Nongovernmental Organisations and Community-based Organisations should institute programs at the grassroots that incorporate the gatekeepers to the community aimed at influencing population behaviour regarding COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Besides, the public health department in the ministry of health in LMICs should create more awareness, through social and mass media, particularly in the rural, semi-urban, and slum communities about the pivotal role of vaccination. Thus, we opined that these strategies will help LMICs achieve the COVID-19 vaccination target and further reposition the healthcare systems, and promote other public health interventions now and in the future.

An Impactful Health Fair in a Semi-Urban Community: Awolowo Town Case Study

Background: Even though most communities in developing countries understand the importance of disease prevention, they do not know how to do so. Beneficial programmes, like Health Fairs, even when relatively free, are often scorned. Understanding the importance of hypertension prevention in rural communities in developing nations is under-utilized. This study aimed to get the Awolowo community to come to terms with the benefits of an impactful Health Fair and generate convincing health information. It addressed how to motivate, generate interest and participate. Thus bridging knowledge gap and experience regarding disease prevention and medical screening. Methodology: This was a prospective study conducted over three days during a health fair at Awolowo town, Osun State, South-western Nigeria. A total of 178 Participants (18 years and above) were divided into three groups. Each group went through eight (8) different stations of specialized Health screening format. Blood pressure, Body mass index (BMI), and demographics were collected. Regression analyses was carried out on IBM SPSS (version 21) to examine the relationship between demographic features and blood pressure. Results: Our study found a high prevalence of pre-hypertension (41.6%) among participants. The study highlighted the rising rates of overweight (22.5%) and obesity (14%) in the population. Also, about 33% had hypertension, while increasing age was identified as a significant factor in its prevalence. The data demonstrates a strong correlation between obesity/overweight and hypertension. Conclusion: The specialized Health screening format and seminars/workshops served as motivation and interest generation. This should be adopted for similar studies. This study emphasizes the need for community interventions to address the growing prevalence of hypertension and obesity in Awolowo town and environ. Early diagnosis, heightened awareness, and lifestyle modifications are crucial approaches to mitigate health risks related to these conditions and enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.

Impact of Cognitive Intervention on Neurocognitive Development of Schoolchildren Exposed to Lead in a Semi-Urban Community in Mexico.

A quasi-experimental study with a control group was conducted in children aged 7 to 12years from 2 communities in Morelos, Mexico. Blood lead levels were determined, and the neurocognitive function was assessed pre- and postintervention with the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children and Children's Auditory Verbal Learning Test-2. A cognitive intervention was conducted at the school. The difference-in-differences method adjusted for variables known as priori and evaluated the impact of cognitive intervention. The differences-in-differences models indicated a significant average increase in scores on the Verbal Comprehension Index (9.58 points), Processing Speed Index (5.33 points), intelligence quotient (5.63 points) level of learning (7.66 points), interference trial (10.12 points), immediate memory span (7.98 points), and recognition accuracy (1.18 points) subtests after the cognitive intervention. The results suggest that cognitive intervention improves neurocognitive development in schoolchildren exposed to Pb.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Vitamin D, Calcium and Phosphate Deficiency among Apparently Healthy Children Aged 6-24 Months in a Semi-urban Community in Southwest, Nigeria.

Adequate levels of calcium, phosphate and Vitamin D are essential for bone physiology and growth, as well as preventing some common childhood illnesses. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of the deficiencies of these nutrients and factors affecting their serum levels in Nigerian children. This was a cross-sectional study that involved 220 apparently healthy children aged 6-24 months in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. Serum calcium and phosphate were assayed using the calorimetric method, while Vitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D) was assayed with ELISA. The mean (±standard deviation [SD]) serum Vitamin D level was 55.07 ± 16.53 ng/ml, while the mean (±SD) serum calcium and phosphate were 2.27 ± 0.13 mmol/l and 1.28 ± 0.18 mmol/l, respectively. Eleven (5%) of the children had hypovitaminosis D, 23 (10.5%) had hypocalcaemia and 12 (5.5%) had hypophosphataemia. Factors found to be significantly associated with hypovitaminosis D included low consumption of milk and the use of a hijab veil, while malnutrition (both undernutrition and overnutrition) was significantly associated with hypocalcaemia. The prevalence levels of hypovitaminosis D and hypophosphataemia were low, while hypocalcaemia was more common. Low milk consumption and use of a hijab veil were risk factors for hypovitaminosis D, while malnutrition was a risk factor for hypocalcaemia. Malnourished children, especially overnourished ones, should be routinely screened for hypocalcaemia because of its high prevalence among them.

Sun Exposure Characteristics among the Indian Population Who Are at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background and Aim: Evidence suggests a beneficial effect of sun exposure on type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). However, little is known about the characteristics of sun exposure among DM patients or individuals at risk of developing DM. The aim of this study was to analyze the sun exposure behaviors of individuals diagnosed with DM and those susceptible to developing DM within a semi-urban community in North India. Materials and Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in northern India with 494 participants aged 25–60, with or without DM. The participants’ sun exposure characteristics were assessed through a sunlight exposure questionnaire, and total sun exposure in a day was computed using the veritable sun exposure (VSE) index. Fasting blood sugar, anthropometric measurements, and demographic details were also collected. Results: The study had 56.5% female participants, and 9.1% of the participants had DM. The VSE of the study participants ranged from 0.01 to 0.81, with a mean of 0.15 (±0.14) and a median of 0.10, indicating that more than half of the study samples had less than 10% h/day of sunlight exposure. The use of sunscreen, gender, and disease status all influenced VSE. Our data suggest that the characteristics of sun exposure among Indians significantly deviate from standard recommendations. Conclusion: Our results propose a need for evidence-based guidelines and policies that promote awareness about sun exposure among DM patients as well as those at risk of developing DM. Nevertheless, these findings need to be validated through large-scale observational studies.

Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitoses among residents of Ekemkpon and Idim Ita of Cross River State, Nigeria

Background: intestinal parasitic infections are the most common infections in the world, with the most prevalent burden occurring in poverty-stricken areas. Intestinal parasitic infections are endemic in certain parts of Nigeria as a result of poor hygiene practices and pollution, which result in contamination of food and water. In semi-urban and rural communities where the dwellers are generally poor and uneducated and lack basic amenities like potable water supply and good sanitary facilities, intestinal parasitic infections cause major health problems. This study was to evaluate the influence of socio-demographic factors in the transmission of intestinal parasitoses among the residents of Ekemkpon and Idim Ita Communities of Cross River State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: this was a cross-sectional survey between April 2019 and August 2019. Samples were obtained from 359 participants in the study areas and examined for stool analysis using direct microscopy and brine floatation technique. Socio-demographic data of the study subjects were obtained using questionnaires. Results: the prevalence of intestinal parasites was higher in Ekemkpon (41.0%) than in Idim Ita (14.9%). Participants with mixed infections in Ekemkpon were 7.9%, while those in Idim Ita were 2.2%. The study has shown that level of education had an influence on the transmission of intestinal parasites in Ekemkpon (p<0.05). Open defecation played a major role as a source of contamination of domestic water and farm products in the Ekemkpon community. The overall helminthic infections in the two study areas were higher than the protozoan infections observed in this study. The only intestinal protozoa in Ekemkpon was Entamoeba histolytica/dispar while hookworm species were the commonest helminthic parasites in Ekemkpon. Balantidium coli (4.4%) was the most prevalent intestinal protozoan parasites in Idim Ita while hookworm and Ascaris lumbricoides (2.8%) were the most occurring helminthic parasites in Idim Ita. Conclusions: it is recommended that strategies aimed at health education, diagnosing and treating those positive for intestinal parasite infections, and improving the general well-being of the masses be encouraged.

Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of Hypertension among Residents of Akpor Community in Rivers State: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a serious condition of public health concern. It is the leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and premature death worldwide, and can increase the risk of heart, brain, kidney and other diseases. Aim: This study aimed at determining the knowledge, attitude, and perception of hypertension among residents of Akpor kingdom, a semi-urban community in Rivers State. Methods: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design in which 284 apparently healthy community-based adult male and female individuals were purposively selected in four semi-urban communities of Akpor kingdom in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. A structured questionnaire consisting of socio-demographic characteristics and research questions on knowledge, attitude and perception of hypertension was self-administered to the participants after obtaining their informed consents. All other ethical procedures were followed in line with the Declaration of Helsinki. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics was used to present the data in frequency tables. Results: Majority of the respondents were males 154 (54.2%), married 195 (68.7%), and between the ages of 40 and 50 (41.5%). Majority 164 (57.8%) had good knowledge of hypertension while 18 (6.3%) had no knowledge of hypertension at all. The prevalence of hypertension was 62 (21.8%), while 102 (35.9%) were not aware whether or not they were hypertensive. Majority of the hypertensive respondents 48 (16.9%) knew their status through medical diagnosis in hospitals/clinics while 14 (4.9%) knew theirs through other means. Majority of the hypertensive respondents 34 (54.8%) had a positive attitude in seeking healthcare while 28 (45.2%) had a negative attitude. Regarding lifestyle modification, 16 (25.8%) had a negative attitude/perception of hypertension out of which 9 (14.5%) never engaged in any form of lifestyle modification, while 7 (11.3%) managed their condition through prayers and other religious practices. Conclusion: A substantial percentage of most adult community dwellers still have poor knowledge of hypertension and negative attitude towards seeking healthcare despite the seemingly increase in public health campaigns in our communities. There is need for all stakeholders to join hands and intensify campaigns that would educate the populace on facts about hypertension, its prevention and management

Early childhood caries among pre-school children in rural areas

Background: Early childhood caries can occur and exist among children in slums areas, rural areas and under-served communities. Africa has countries with rural areas inhabited by diverse ethnic populations of pre-school children, with their parents and family members. Method: An electronic literature search in Science direct and PubMed was done in January, 2024 using the Population, Concept and Context framework. Search terms and keywords were combined by Boolean operators. Two independent investigators screened titles and abstracts of publications on early childhood caries among pre-school children in rural areas. The inclusion criteria was original (primary) research articles with accessible full text, related to early childhood caries among pre-school children in rural areas, carried out in Africa, published in English and in electronic databases. Original research articles related to early childhood caries among pre-school children in urban, semi-urban or sub-urban areas, hospital based studies, studies with participants selected from rural and urban or rural and semi-urban communities, review articles, systematic reviews, thesis or dissertations were excluded during screening. Results: Three articles with accessible full texts were included as it was assessed to meet the aim of the review. The study designs of the included studies were cross-sectional study, randomized, controlled field trial and a case-control study respectively. The studies were carried out in rural areas of Uganda and Egypt respectively. Conclusion: Early childhood caries has multifactorial aetiology. More studies from diverse ethnic population in Africa countries will fill the gaps in knowledge and add to the existing literature.

Understanding of cervical cancer, acceptability of HPV self-collection, and prevalence of HPV in a semi-urban setting in Bangladesh.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling has been implemented successfully as an alternative to traditional forms of cervical cancer screening in low-resource settings. Through Bangladesh's current national cervical cancer screening program, only about 10% of the at-risk population is reached. Thus, Bangladesh is an ideal setting to consider HPV self-sampling to improve cervical cancer prevention efforts. However, the feasibility and acceptability of HPV self-sampling has not been evaluated in Bangladesh. We aimed to understand levels of HPV and cervical cancer knowledge and to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of HPV self-sampling for cervical cancer screening in a semi-urban Bangladeshi community. Participants were recruited from a local clinic; 164 women completed a cross-sectional questionnaire about attitudes towards screening, and cervical cancer and HPV risk factor knowledge, and provided self-collected cervical samples for high-risk HPV testing. Of the participants, 4.3% tested positive for high-risk HPV and were referred for appropriate follow-up care. Nearly all participants had heard of cervical cancer, though specific knowledge was quite low. Self-sampling for high-risk HPV testing had high rates of acceptability, high rates of convenience, and very little discomfort and embarrassment reported in this study population, making implementing HPV self-sampling as a form of cervical cancer screening in Bangladesh appear feasible.

Ambient Air Pollution and Chronic kidney disease risk in Deltan communities: A Policy Brief, 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a persistent, devastating, yet neglected, non-communicable disease in developing and emerging countries. National, regional, and international agencies’ communications and reports on non-communicable diseases intentionally or non-intentionally do not feature CKD. The traditional risk factors for CKD, such as hypertension and diabetes, which have received relatively ample attention, do not sufficiently explain the high burden of CKD in these countries. Ambient air pollution is an emerging significant environmental risk factor for CKD; however, epidemiological data and evidence are lacking for susceptible populations in developing countries. The Niger Delta region of Nigeria is a petrochemical hub known for environmental degradation, including air pollution, and thus, serves as a good case study for investigating the association between air pollution and CKD. This brief is based on the results of a mixed-methods study conducted in four communities situated near an oil and gas refinery in Warri, Nigeria. Air pollutant concentrations measured in partnership with citizen scientists showed that all except one air pollutant (ozone) exceeded the WHO acceptable limits in all four communities. The overall prevalence of CKD was high (12.3%) but even higher (18%) in a socially deprived semi-urban community closest to the oil refinery. Hypertension, diabetes, other behavioral risk factors, and exposures associated with CKD were prevalent among the inhabitants of the four communities. However, public environmental health information and education are lacking. A multifaceted approach is required to mitigate air pollution and the associated health risks in the state. Public inclusion is strongly recommended for the planning and implementation of future interventions. Kidney disease prevention and treatment should be emphasized in health policies and insurance schemes.

Understanding antibiotic use in the community setting in Thailand: Does communication matter?

It is known that the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials leads to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Effective communication between dispensers and users is thus crucial in reducing inappropriate antibiotic use. This study aims to gain a better understanding of communication around the use of antibiotics in the community and seeks potential implementation strategies to change dispenser and user practices in communication aspects. Qualitative methods were employed, including in-depth interviews with 18 drug suppliers and 16 community members, and eight focus group discussions with key informants. Data were collected in the Kanchanaburi Demographic Health Surveillance System in urban and semi-urban communities in the western region of Thailand. The thematic analysis included communication quality, communication and imbalanced power, and misconceptions and instruction. The OpenCode qualitative software program was employed. The study revealed that the quality of communication was significantly influenced by the interaction of antibiotic dispensing with language and information. This interaction creates communication constraints between those dispensing antibiotics and the recipients, resulting in a less-than-optimal exchange of information. Consequently, users received limited information concerning the proper use of antibiotics. Furthermore, power imbalances and communication dynamics were perpetuated, mainly stemming from varying levels of access to and knowledge about antibiotics. This imbalance in power dynamics became evident between those dispensing antibiotics and the users. Users, as well as dispensers lacking proper qualifications, found themselves in a precarious position due to their inadequate knowledge of antibiotics. Moreover, it is noteworthy that misconceptions often conflicted with antibiotic instructions, leading to challenges in adhering to antibiotic regimens. These challenges primarily arose from misconceptions about antibiotics and concerns about potential side effects, particularly when users started to feel better. The findings highlight the importance of enhancing communication between dispensers and users through future interventions. These interventions should aim to bolster user understanding of antibiotics and provide clear, trustworthy instructions for their proper usage. Investigating innovative communication methods, such as the use of QR codes, presents a promising avenue for consideration. By addressing these communication gaps, we can advocate for the appropriate utilization of antibiotics and mitigate the prevalence of AMR.

Effectiveness of Health Education Intervention on Knowledge Regarding Prevention of Cervical Cancer among Women in a Selected Community of Kathmandu, Nepal

Cervical cancer is considered a cancer that is preventable by means of vaccination against human papilloma virus (HPV) and early detection by screening. Its incidence is decreasing in developed countries but not in developing countries, including Nepal. Disease ignorance and low awareness about available preventive health services are the main causes for cervical cancer still being a leading cause of death by cancer. We evaluated the effectiveness of a health educational intervention in improving women’s knowledge about cervical cancer and its prevention in a semi-urban community of Kathmandu. Health education was provided in an interactive lecture for women of reproductive age in various wards of Shankarapur Municipality, Kathmandu. Its effectiveness was assessed by comparing the level of knowledge before and four weeks after the intervention, by interviewing participants based on a questionnaire consisting of 48 questions. The study was completed in 126 women (mean age 33.5 years). The mean pre-test and post-test correct scores were 10.2 and 42.13 respectively (p <0.001). Initially, 96.8% had poor knowledge (score <60.0% of total); post-intervention, 87.3% had good knowledge (score ≥80.0%, p <0.001). Knowledge before intervention was especially poor among older age, less educated, housewives or doing small business, and married women (p <0.001). Knowledge of cervical cancer and its prevention is poor among community women. A health education is very effective in improving women’s knowledge and should be implemented as a policy to achieve the goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health issue.

Effects of Digital Health Literacy Program on Sufficient Health Behavior Among Thai Working-Age People With Risk Factors for Noncommunicable Diseases.

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for more than 75% of deaths in Thailand, which is higher than the global average of 71%. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the Digital Health Literacy (DHL) and Sufficient Health Behavior (SHB) Program on Thai working-age adults age 20 to 65 years with risk factors for NCDs (i.e., overweight and lacking physical activity), and compare the health literacy (HL) and SHB of participants living in urban and semi-urban areas at posttest. Using the lottery method, this one-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design randomly selected 200 participants and assigned them to two equally sized groups. The data were gathered through surveys with an item discrimination power between .20 and .86 and a reliability of 0.94 and were statistically analyzed using t-test and F-test. The DHL and SHB Program comprises six sessions over a 12-week period, and activities designed to enhance knowledge of NCDs, HL, health communication, and health behavior modification. It was conducted by health care workers from urban and semi-urban public hospitals via Zoom using various digital toolkits such as YouTube, animations, infographics, role-play videos, clips, and e-books. At the posttest, the participants had higher HL (t = 2.67, p = .001) and SHB (t = 3.36, p = .001). There was a difference in SHB scores (F = 4.640, p = .032) between those living in urban and those in semi-urban areas, but no difference in HL scores (F = 1.436, p = .232). The DHL and SHB Program improved HL and SHB in Thai working-age adults with risk factors for NCDs in both urban and semi-urban communities. [HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice. 2024;8(2):e93-e101.].

Attitude and predictors of exclusive breastfeeding practice among mothers attending under-five welfare clinics in a rural community in Southwestern Nigeria.

Much previous research on exclusive breastfeeding has focused on urban and semi-urban communities, while there is still a paucity of data from rural areas. We assessed the attitude and practice of exclusive breastfeeding and its predictors among mothers attending the under-five welfare clinics in a rural community. A cross-sectional study was conducted among consecutively recruited 217 mothers attending the three health facilities under-five welfare clinics in Ido-Ekiti, Southwest, Nigeria. Information was collected with a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from previously published research works. Descriptive and inferential statistics were carried out using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0. More than half of the mothers, 117(53.9%) were ≥30 years old, and 191(88.0%) were married. Almost all, 216 (99.5%) attended an ante-natal clinic; however, 174(80.2%) delivered in the health facility. The respondent's mean ± SD exclusive breastfeeding attitudinal score was 29.94 ± 2.14 (maximum obtainable score was 36), and the proportion of mothers that practiced exclusive breastfeeding was 40.6%. Married mothers were more likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding than their unmarried counterparts (AOR:6.324, 95%CI:1.809-22.114). The common reasons for not practicing exclusive breastfeeding were work schedule 57(26.3%), cultural beliefs and the need to introduce herbal medicine 32(14.7%), and insufficient breast milk 30(13.8%). This study revealed a good disposition with a suboptimal practice towards exclusive breastfeeding. Also, being married was a positive predictor of exclusive breastfeeding. Therefore, we recommend policies that will improve exclusive breastfeeding among mothers in rural areas, especially those targeting the unmarried, to achieve the World Health Organization's target.

Changing pattern of high blood pressure in Rumuomasi: A semi-urban community in southern Nigeria

Background: Hypertension is the largest contributor to global burden of disease with uncontrolled hypertension rising from 600million to nearly 1billion. Nigeria, as the most populous country in Africa, is not immune to the trend of global health and is even more vulnerable considering her population growth rate and lifestyle challenges. This study therefore aims to identify the prevalence of high blood pressure in the semi-urban community in southern Nigeria. Methods: 199 subjects participated in this community-based cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among adults age ≥18 years in an outreach held by GoodHeart and life support initiative in November 2023 at Rumuomasi community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Port Harcourt Rivers state, Nigeria. Biodata was collected and blood pressure was measured using a mercury sphygmomanometer. Results: Of the 199 subjects that participated in this study, 63 (31.66%) were males and 136 (68.34%) females with a mean age of 48.5 ± 14.33 years. The prevalence of high blood pressure in the study population stands at 71.86% (n = 143). Among the hypertensive, 100 were females and 43 males. Early detection and treatment are crucial and should be encouraged, especially in an environment where ignorance and poverty hinder proper health-seeking behavior.

Promoting the Wellness of Older Adults through Integrated Health-Promoting Programs and Supportive Peers: A Quasi-Experimental Study in Semi-Urban Communities of Northeastern Thailand.

Thailand has approached an aged society in which the proportion of older adults rose from 5% in 1995 to 20.7% in 2022 and is projected to increase to 27.2% in 2030. Older adults face health risks and challenges, requiring supportive care. This research aimed to promote the wellness of older adults through Integrated Health-Promoting Programs and Supportive Peers (IHPP-SP) in semi-urban communities. A one-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental study was conducted among 229 older adults from 22 communities. The interventions covered analyzing community situations and determinants, designing and developing IHPP-SP, enhancing the capabilities of supportive peers, and establishing a support system. Mean and proportion differences were analyzed using the paired t-test and McNemar test. After implementing IHPP-SP, the mean score significantly increased for happiness (P = .004), Activities of Daily Living: ADLs (P = .034), and family support (P < .001), but did not differ regarding depression (P = .413). The proportion of healthy behaviors significantly increased for tobacco use (P = .035), dietary intake (P = .018), and physical activity (P < .001), but not for alcohol consumption (P = .377). The IHPP-SP provided potential benefits to promote the wellness of older adults.