Southeast Ethiopia Research Articles

Association between dietary diversity, nutritional status, and academic performance of school-age children in Southeast Ethiopia using structural equation modelling

Association between dietary diversity, nutritional status, and academic performance of school-age children in Southeast Ethiopia using structural equation modelling

Geohazard Mapping and Mitigations of Landslides Along the Road Corridor Gasera–Indeto, Oromia Regional State, Southeast Ethiopia

Geohazard Mapping and Mitigations of Landslides Along the Road Corridor Gasera–Indeto, Oromia Regional State, Southeast Ethiopia

Impact Assessment of Forest Degradation on Peoples Livelihood: The Case of Harena Buluq Woreda Bale Eco Region, Southeast Ethiopia

In developing countries like Ethiopia, forest degradation, characterized by the decline in forest cover and diminished capacity to provide essential goods and services, presents significant environmental, social, and economic challenges. The purpose of this study is to assess the effects of forest degradation on the way of life for the people living in the southeast Ethiopian woreda of Harena Buluq. Examining how forest degradation affects local livelihoods with a particular emphasis on livelihood strategies and the degree of reliance on forest resources is the main goal. In order to obtain qualitative insights, data was gathered by means of a combination of secondary sources and key informant interviews, which were complemented by on-site observations of the consequences of forest degradation. After gathering, the data was examined and shown. The findings underscore the multifaceted impact of forest degradation on the socio-economic fabric of communities in Harena Buluq, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate its adverse effects and promote sustainable livelihood practices.

Patterns of upper gastrointestinal diseases among patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy at three hospitals in Asella town, Southeast Ethiopia

Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) symptoms are among the common complaints among patients visiting health facilities. Because of the scarcity of gastrointestinal endoscopy services and gastroenterologists, the pattern of common upper gastrointestinal diseases has not been well studied in the study setting. This study aimed to determine the pattern of upper gastrointestinal diseases among patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted at three hospitals in Asella town, southeast Ethiopia. A total of 279 study subjects were included in the study. Three-fourths (74%) of the study participants had abnormal endoscopic findings. The clinical indications for endoscopic examination were dyspepsia (32.6%), peptic ulcer disease (PUD) (27.2%), suspicion of gastric cancer (13.3%), and suspicion of esophageal cancer (11.5%). The abnormal endoscopic findings were esophageal cancer (10.4%), gastric cancer (10%), duodenal ulcer (DU) (9.3%), and gastritis (8.6%). The abnormal biopsy findings were esophageal cancer (7.5%), gastric adenocarcinoma (6.4%), and gastritis (3.9%). Dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease, and suspicion of UGI malignancies were the most common clinical indications for endoscopic examination, while esophageal cancer and gastric cancer were the most common abnormal endoscopic findings. The most common abnormal biopsy results were esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and gastric adenocarcinoma. It is advised to have a high index of suspicion for esophageal cancer and gastric cancer for patients who present with alarming upper gastrointestinal symptoms in the study setting.

Prevalence of injury and utilization of personal protective equipment among building construction workers and associated factors in Bale and West Arsi Zones, southeast Ethiopia 2022.

The building construction industry is well known for being one of the most dangerous industries worldwide. Statistics show it is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of injury, personal protective equipment usage among building construction workers, and associated factors in Southeast Ethiopia. Institutional-based cross-sectional study was done among 406 selected construction workers in Southeast Ethiopia. Study participants were selected randomly. Data were collected by using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize study variables. Binary logistic regression was utilized to investigate factors associated with injury among study participants. Accordingly, adjusted odds ratio along its 95% confidence interval were calculated and a p value of <0.05 was used to declare statistical significance. Generalized linear models were utilized to investigate factors associated with the use of personal protective equipment. Accordingly, an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was determined and a p value of <0.05 was used as a level to declare a significant statistical association. In this research 406 building construction workers were interviewed and 393 participants gave complete responses, yielding a 96.8% response rate. Of all participants included in this study, 27 (6.8%) drink alcohol and 26 (6.6%) chew khats. Uses of personal protective equipment among study participants was 133 (33.3%, with a 95% confidence interval of 28.3% to 37.7%). Of 393 participants in this study, 213 (54.2%) of them sustained at least one building work-related injury in the last year. The commonest type of injury that occurred among this population was abrasion 43.3% followed by muscular pain (13%). Not having orientation about personal protective equipment, without safety training, didn't use personal protective equipment, and rural residence were factors significantly associated with injury among building construction workers. Residence, age, monthly income, service year, orientation about personal protective equipment, safety training, and start using personal protective equipment immediately after the job offers were significantly associated with the uses of personal protective equipment by participants of this study. In general, this study has identified a relatively high prevalence of injury and low use of personal protective equipment in the study subjects and associated factors.

Additions to and revisions of the endemic and near-endemic Acanthaceae of Ethiopia

Taxonomic studies in the Acanthaceae of Ethiopia and neighbouring countries reveal the presence of several previously overlooked endemic and near-endemic taxa. The Isoglossa somalensis Lindau complex is revised, resulting in the description of a new species, Isoglossa recurva Hanny &amp; I.Darbysh. from the forests of southwest Ethiopia, and a new variety of I. somalensis, var. glandulosa Hanny, G.Hoban &amp; I.Darbysh. from montane southeast Ethiopia. Barleria induta C.B.Clarke from Ethiopia and Eritrea, treated as B. prionitis L. subsp. induta (C.B.Clarke) Brummitt &amp; J.R.I.Wood in the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea (FEE), is reevaluated and found to represent two species, with B. praetermissa I.Darbysh. described from the Tigray region of northwest Ethiopia. Finally, Hypoestes microphylla Nees is resurrected as a good species, separate from the widespread H. triflora (Forssk.) Roem. &amp; Schult. under which it was treated as a synonym in FEE. Descriptions, tables of comparison and notes on the habitat, ecology and extinction risk for these taxa are provided. The first record of I. gregorii (S.Moore) Lindau for Ethiopia is also noted and a revised key to Isoglossa in Ethiopia is presented. The endemic Acanthaceae of Ethiopia now stands at 21 species (23 taxa), whilst an additional 23 species (24 taxa) are considered to be range-restricted near-endemics.

Determinants of survival time for HIV/AIDS patients in the pastoralist region of Borena: a study at Yabelo General Hospital, South East Ethiopia

IntroductionHIV/AIDS is one of the most dangerous diseases globally, impacting public health, economics, society, political issues, and communities. As of 2023, the World Health Organization estimates that 40.4 million people are living with HIV/AIDS. This study aimed to identify the determinants of survival time for HIV/AIDS patients in the pastoralist region of Borena at Yabelo General Hospital.MethodThe study design was a retrospective cohort study, with a sample size of 293 individuals living with HIV/AIDS, based on recorded data. This research utilized survival model analysis, employing Kaplan-Meier plots, the log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazard model analysis.ResultOut of the total sample size, 179 (61.1%) were female and 114 (38.1%) were male. Among these males, 36 (31.6%) were deceased. The analysis using the Cox proportional hazard model revealed that the following variables were significantly associated with the survival time of HIV/AIDS patients: gender, educational status, area of residence, tuberculosis (TB), and opportunistic infections.ConclusionsWe concluded that individuals living with HIV/AIDS in urban areas have a lower risk of death compared to those in rural areas, indicating that rural residents have a reduced survival probability. Therefore, the Borena zone administration should focus on adult patients to enhance life expectancy.

Effect of nutrition education on the nutritional status of pregnant women in Robe and Goba Towns, Southeast Ethiopia, using a cluster randomized controlled trial

Maternal malnutrition is pervasive throughout the world, notably in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), including Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the effect of nutrition education on the nutritional status of pregnant women in urban settings in Southeast Ethiopia. A community-based two-arm parallel cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among 447 randomly selected pregnant women attending antenatal care (224 intervention and 223 control). We used a multistage cluster sampling technique followed by systematic sampling to select the pregnant women. Pregnant women who participated in the intervention arm received six nutrition education sessions. Women in the control group received standard care. A nonstretchable mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) tape was used to measure the MUAC. A linear mixed effects model (LMM) was used to evaluate the effect of the intervention on MUAC, accounting for the clustering. The net mean ± standard error of MUAC between the intervention and control groups was 0.59 ± 0.05 (P < 0.0001). The multivariable LMM indicated that having received nutrition education interventions (β = 0.85, 95% CI 0.60, 1.12, P < 0.0001) improved the MUAC measurement of pregnant women. Thus, nutrition education during pregnancy will combat undernutrition among pregnant women.Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov (PACTR202201731802989), retrospectively registered on 24/01/2022.

Delayed time to pregnancy and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in bale zone administrative towns health facilities: multi-center cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe desire to conceive and become parents is a fundamental aspect of human life that carries immense personal, emotional, and societal significance. For many couples, achieving pregnancy represents a long-cherished dream, but the journey to parenthood is not always straightforward. The duration it takes to achieve the desired pregnancy can vary significantly among individuals and is influenced by many factors. This study explores the factors that influence the delayed time of pregnancy among women with naturally planned conception.MethodsAn institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 1 to May 30, 2023, in public health facilities of Bale Zone administrative towns, Southeast Ethiopia. Using systematic random sampling, 388 women participated in the study and a pretested questionnaire was used to collect data. Bivariate logistic regression was done, and variables with p-values < 0.25 were exported to multivariable logistic regression, and a statistically significant association was declared at p-value < 0.05.ResultsThe study revealed delayed time to pregnancy was 18.6% with 95% (CI = 14.67-22.44%). Women’s age ≥ 35, (AOR = 2.61; 95%, CI: 1.17–5.82), menstrual irregularity (AOR = 3.79; 95% CI: 1.98–7.25), and frequency of sexual intercourse/week (AOR = 2.15; 95% CI: 1.05–4.41) and women’s sexual dysfunction before conception (AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: 1.62–6.01) were significantly associated factors with delayed time to pregnancy at p-value < 0.05.ConclusionThe study revealed a substantial proportion of delayed time to pregnancy. This delayed time to pregnancy was associated with older maternal age, irregular menstrual cycles, coital activity per week, and the women’s sexual dysfunction before pregnancy. Consequently, addressing delayed time to pregnancy requires a targeted approach, prioritizing initiatives such as raising awareness, fostering increased frequency of sexual activity per week, exploring interventions for women with irregular menstrual patterns, and challenges related to sexual dysfunction.

Response of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) genotypes for grain yield in a multi-environment trial in Southeastern Ethiopia

Field pea (Pisum sativum L.) is a key cool-season food legume grown in Ethiopia, particularly in the Southeastern Arsi Zone. Although there is potential for field pea production in the area, adopting new and improved varieties is challenging because local farmers frequently prioritize cereal crops over field peas. To tackle this issue, a study was conducted to identify and promote high-yielding, improved field pea varieties suitable for the Southeastern farming community and similar agro-ecologies. The study focused on assessing the relationship between genotype and environment as well as the stability pattern of 14 advanced field pea genotypes. The genotypes were evaluated in eight environments in two consecutive cropping seasons (2014–2015) in southeast Ethiopia. The study utilized a randomized complete block design consisting of four replications. Various parametric stability analyses were used, including joint regression, additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI), and additive main effect and multiplicative interaction stability value (ASV). The grain yield was significantly influenced by genotype, location, and their interactions. The average grain yield ranged from 2809.5 kg ha−1 to 3509.1 kg ha−1. Eberhart's stability analysis identified stable genotypes: G3, G4, and G8, while G14 was unstable. According to additive main effect and multiplicative interaction stability value (ASV) and yield stability index (YSI), genotypes G12 and G13 had very low ASV values, whereas genotype G4 had very low ASV and YSI values. The AMMI and GGE biplot graphs showed that the principal component axes (PC1) and (PC2) accounted for 64.1 % and 61.36 % of the total variation, respectively. The results indicated that genotypes responded differently to environmental conditions and that the environment also influenced genotype performance. Genotypes G4 and G3 consistently performed well and exhibited remarkable stability, making them excellent cultivars for improving field pea productivity.

Engineering Geological Investigation of the Katar Dam Foundation and Abutment Slope Stability Analysis, Southeast Ethiopia

Engineering Geological Investigation of the Katar Dam Foundation and Abutment Slope Stability Analysis, Southeast Ethiopia

Assessment of community-driven drought risk management strategies in pastoral and agro-pastoral district of Bale zones south east Ethiopia

Assessment of community-driven drought risk management strategies in pastoral and agro-pastoral district of Bale zones south east Ethiopia

Pattern of ABO and Rhesus Blood Group Distribution among Second Year Medical Students of Arsi University, Southeast Ethiopia

Pattern of ABO and Rhesus Blood Group Distribution among Second Year Medical Students of Arsi University, Southeast Ethiopia

Exclusive Breastfeeding Practice and Associated Factors among Mothers having Infants (Aged 0-6 Months) in the Pastoral Community of Sawena District, Bale Zone Oromia, Ethiopia, 2023

Background: Breastfeeding is the recommended feeding method for infants due to its ease, health benefits, and cost-effectiveness. However, there is limited understanding of Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) in pastoral communities, such as the Sawena district in Ethiopia. Objective: To assess the prevalence and factors associated with EBF among mothers with infants (aged 0-6 months) in pastoral communities in Southeast Ethiopia. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study design with a convergent mixed-method approach was employed from March 01 to April 2023 G.C and involved 631 women selected through random sampling. Face-to-face interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using statistical software. Variables with a p &lt; 0.25 in the analysis were included in the logistic regression model. Results: Out of 631 eligible mothers, 625 participated in the study, resulting in 53.8% (95% CI; 49.8%-57.4%). prevalence of EBF in the study area. Factors significantly associated with EBF included household food security [AOR = 1.6, 95% CI (1.1-2.2)], ANC follow-up during pregnancy, [AOR = 5.3, 95% CI (2.4-11.9)], counselling about EBF during ANC visits [AOR = 5; 95% CI (2.1-11.7)], number of children [AOR = 1.6, 95% CI (1.1-2.3)] and attitudes toward EBF [AOR = 1.8; 95% CI (1.4-2.6)]. The qualitative findings revealed reasons for not practicing EBF, such as concerns about insufficient breast milk, concerns about the baby becoming thirsty, refusing solid foods later, or being negatively affected. Conclusion: The prevalence of EBF in the Sawena district was lower than recommended. The influential factors include household food security, ANC follow-up, counselling during ANC, number of children, and attitudes toward EBF.

Analyses of LULC dynamics in a socio-ecological system of the Bale Mountains Eco Region of Southeast Ethiopia.

Analysis of land use and land cover (LULC) change and its drivers and impacts in the biodiversity hotspot of Bale Mountain's socio-ecological system is crucial for formulating plausible policies and strategies that can enhance sustainable development. The study aimed to analyze spatio-temporal LULC changes and their trends, extents, drives, and impacts over the last 48 years in the Bale Mountain social-ecological system. Landsat imagery data from the years 1973, 1986, 1996, 2014, and 2021 together with qualitative data were used. LULC classification scheme employed a supervised classification method with the application of the maximum likelihood algorithm technique. In the period between 1973 and 2021, agriculture, bare land, and settlement showed areal increment by 153.13%, 295.57%, and 49.03% with the corresponding increased annual rate of 1.93%, 2.86%, and 0.83%, respectively. On the contrary, forest, wood land, bushland, grass land, and water body decreased by 29.97%, 1.36%, 28.16%, 8.63%, and 84.36% during the study period, respectively. During the period, major LULC change dynamics were also observed; the majority of woodland was converted to agriculture (757.8 km2) and grassland (531.3 km2); and forests were converted to other LULC classes, namely woodland (766.5 km2), agriculture (706.1 km2), grassland (34.6 km2), bushland (31.9 km2), settlement (20.5 km2), and bare land (14.3 km2). LULC changes were caused by the expansion of agriculture, settlement, overgrazing, infrastructure development, and fire that were driven by population growth and climate change, and supplemented by inadequate policy and institutional factors. Social and environmental importance and values of land uses and land covers in the study area necessitate further assessment of potential natural resources' user groups and valuation of ecosystem services in the study area. Hence, we suggest the identification of potential natural resource-based user groups, and assessment of the influence of LULC changes on ecosystem services in Bale Mountains Eco Region (BMER) for the sustainable use and managements of land resources.

Youth-friendly health services utilization and associated factors among youths in Dinsho district, southeast Ethiopia

Youth-friendly health services utilization and associated factors among youths in Dinsho district, southeast Ethiopia

Investigated the role of community based approaches for biodiversity conservation and socio-economic development in Bale Mountains National Park, Southeast Ethiopia

Community based conservation approaches are the holistic way to ensure appropriate biodiversity conservation and livelihood improvement in many protected areas across the world. However involvement of local community in conservation activities and benefit sharing in many protected areas are not well implemented. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of community based conservation approaches for biodiversity conservation and socio-economic development. To address the stated objectives, required data were gathered from both primary and secondary sources. The result of the study revealed that parks provide various benefits for the local communities which are found in and adjacent to the park. Regarding perceived benefits from park, there was significant difference among community based association and non-community based association at (X2 = 92.071, df = 1, P < 0.05) while no significant difference was observed across kebeles. In spite of variation in perception among local community on park conservation, it was revealed that the communities contribute towards conservation of the park by controlling outbreak of fire and informing wildlife attack. Regarding strengths and weakness of community based conservation approaches as the finding indicated that internal factors out weight the external factors which imply that implementing the approaches is crucial for successful conservation of the park.

Establishing reference intervals for common hematology test parameters from apparently healthy geriatrics in Asella town, Southeast Ethiopia, 2020: a community-based cross-sectional study.

Reference intervals are an important method tool for identifying abnormal laboratory test results. Complete blood count reference values are useful to interpret complete blood count (CBC) results and make clinical decisions, but these values have not been established for geriatrics in Asella town. Therefore, this study aimed to establish reference intervals (RIs) for complete blood count (CBC) parameters from geriatric participants/subjects in Asella town, Southeast Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2019 to May 2020. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemography and other characteristics from 342 eligible geriatric participants. Weight, height, and vital signs were measured, and 8 mL of blood sample was collected. Screening tests such as HIV, HBsAg, HCV, syphilis, stool examination, and urinalysis were performed. The hematological parameter was measured using a Sysmex kx-21 hematology analyzer. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 software. The non-parametric independent Kruskal-Wallis test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test (Mann-Whitney U test) were used to compare the parameters between age groups and genders. The 97.5 and 2.5th percentile were the upper and lower reference limit for the population. According to the study's findings, the reference intervals of red blood cell, white blood cell, platelet count, hemoglobin (HGB), and hematocrit (HCT) in male geriatrics were 3.8-5.85 × 1012/L, 3.1-9.66 × 109/L, 115.8-353 × 109/L, 12.4-17.76 g/dL, and 35.06-50.2%, respectively. The respective values for women were 3.94-5.48 × 1012/L, 3.13-8.4 × 109/L, 137.5-406 × 109/L, 12.5-16.4 g/dL, and 36.09-48.2%. Most of the hematological parameters showed significant differences between the two genders (p value <0.05). Accurate gender and age-specific reference intervals are crucial in managing patient health. The current study offers essential CBC hematological parameters that can assist clinicians in interpreting laboratory results and can improve healthcare quality in the geriatric population. Therefore, it is more relevant to use the current RIs in the geriatric set-up.

Determinants of birth asphyxia among new born babies in Bekoji public hospital, Arsi zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia, 2023

Background: Birth asphyxia stands out as a significant factor contributing to morbidity and mortality among newborns. However, the determinants of birth asphyxia have not been thoroughly investigated within the local context, particularly in this specific area. Hence, this study aims to identify these determinants to tackle the issue effectively. Objectives: The goal of this study is to pinpoint the determinants of birth asphyxia at Bekoji Public Hospital in Bekoji Town, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Southeast Ethiopia, in 2023. Methods: A case-control study was conducted between June 1, 2023, and August 30, 2023. A total of 198 newborns (75 cases and 123 controls) at Bekoji Public Hospital were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data collection involved a checklist for record review and an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data were entered into Epi Data version 7.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Variables with a P-value &lt; 0.25 were subjected to multivariable regression analysis. The Odds Ratio estimated with a 95% Confidence Interval was utilized to indicate the strength of association, with a significance level set at P &lt; 0.05. Results: 196 mothers of newborns (73 cases and 123 controls) were interviewed, resulting in a response rate of 98.9%. Factors such as prolonged duration of labor (AOR=2.54; [95% CI: 1.78, 6.39]), delivery by Caesarean section (AOR=0.64; [95% CI: 0.004, 1.114]), presence of stained amniotic fluid (AOR=0.473; [95% CI: 0.180, 1.242]), and non-cephalic fetal presentation (AOR=2.12; [95% CI: 1.019, 3.80]) were identified as predictors of birth asphyxia. Additionally, being male (AOR=1.885; [95% CI: 0.899, 3.950]) was also found to be a predictive factor for birth asphyxia. Conclusion and recommendations: Duration of labor, fetal presentation, type of amniotic fluid, mode of delivery, and the gender of newborns emerged as significantly associated factors with birth asphyxia. As a result, interventions targeting these factors, particularly focusing on duration of labor and fetal presentation, should be rigorously implemented.

Anemia and Associated Factors among Public Elementary School Children in Asella Town, Southeast Ethiopia: A Facility-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Anemia has a negative impact on school children, including poor physical growth and reduced mental performance. Children show poor attentiveness, behavior, and memory and reduced school performance. There is limited evidence of the magnitude of anemia and associated factors in school-age children in Ethiopia, including the study area. To assess the magnitude of anemia and associated factors among public elementary school children in Asella Town, Southeast Ethiopia, in 2022. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Asella Town from April 5 to May 5, 2022. A total of 442 school children aged 7-14 years were included in the study using the multistage sampling method. Data were collected using a pretested and semistructured questionnaire through a face-to-face interview technique. The hemoglobin concentration was determined by using the HemoCue 301+ analyzer. Anthropometric data and stool examinations were collected from participants. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.6, transported, and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out. Adjusted odds ratios along with their 95% confidence interval were used, and a p value of ≤0.05 was used for declaring statistical significance. A total of 435 students with a mean age and standard deviation of 10.77 ± 2.21 years participated in the study. The magnitude of anemia was 78 (17.9%), with a 95% CI (14.3, 21.47). Of the participants, 63 (14.5%) were mild anemic and 15 (3.4%) were moderately anemic. Children whose mothers have no formal education (AOR = 3.94, 95% CI: 1.89, 8.21), underweight children (AOR = 3.83, 95% CI: 1.98, 7.40), and parasites in their stool (AOR = 3.72, 95% CI: 1.50, 9.20) were significantly associated with anemia in school-age children. Anemia among school-age children was found to be a mild public health problem. Uneducated mothers, intestinal parasite infections, and underweight children were found to be determinants of anemia among school-age children. Health professionals should provide health education for mothers about child-feeding practices and the consumption of dietary sources of iron.