| 1 |
Author(s):
Amire Abayomi Stephen, Golda O. Ekenedo (Prof.), Kwarbai Aaron Maitala, Chinwe Grace Azuka.
Page No : 1-19
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Health Risk Perception and Exposure Among Nurses in Healthcare Facilities of Central Senatorial Areas in Bayelsa State.
Abstract
Introduction: Nursing is a profession whereby trained personnel (nurses) provide care for patients. Nurses are considered as the backbone of the healthcare, However, during the fulfilment of their duties and responsibilities, nurses are continuously exposed to occupational dangers and risks which affect their health and nursing quality. The objective of this study was to investigate health risk perception and exposure among nurses in health care facilities of senatorial areas of bayelsa state.
Methodology: A descriptive cross sectional survey design was adopted to investigate the health risk perception and exposure among 289 nurses in healthcare facility of central senatorial area in bayelsa state. Data was collected using a well-structured questionnaire. with a reliability coefficient of 0.70 and analyzed with the aid of the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 25. Descriptive results were presented in frequencies and percentages using tables and charts. Inferential statistics of binary logistic regression and chi-square test were employed in analyzing the hypotheses at 0.05 alpha level.
Result: The study found that the majority of respondents had a high level of health risk perception (57.4%) and exposure (60.4%). There was no statistical significant difference found in health risk perception of the respondents based on years of work experience and educational status. Respondents in the casualty unit had higher health risk perception [OR:4.606 (95% CI= 1.487-14.265)]. Those with 6-10 years of work experience had higher health risk exposure [OR:0.012 (95% CI= 0.002-0.065)]. Respondents with B.ScN were also had higher health risk exposure [OR:1.597 (95% CI= 0.823-3.101)]. Respondents in theatre and casualty units had high health risk exposure. The result revealed that respondents in the theatre (P<0.01) and casualty (P<0.05) units did significantly exhibited high level of health risk exposure. The odds ratio revealed that respondents in theatre are 0.123 times had high health risk exposure while respondents in the casualty unit are 0.050 times exhibited high level of health risk exposure.
Conclusion: The study concluded that nurses are aware of the health risks they can be exposed to in the course of carrying out their duties, hence the need to encourage them to ensure adherence to safety and protection measures to reduce health risks exposures. The study recommended that hospital management of various health care institutions should provide adequate and complete PPE, to encourage safety practices and reduce occupational health risks.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Dr. Ijabo Henry Ijabo, Kwarbai Aaron Maitala, Victor Ojoajogwu Sule, Onoja Friday Onoja.
Page No : 20-34
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Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Lassa Fever Prevention among Healthcare Workers in Makurdi.
Abstract
Introduction: Lassa fever (LF) is a severe viral hemorrhagic disease that requires prompt reporting to local, state, and national health authorities. It presents initially with nonspecific symptoms but may progress to multi-organ failure if treatment is delayed. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and infection prevention and control (IPC) practices regarding LF among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Makurdi, Benue State.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 HCWs selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using self-administered, semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed with SPSS version 26.0. Chi-square tests were applied to test associations at a 0.05 level of significance.
Results: The majority of respondents demonstrated good knowledge of LF and its preventive measures (79.6%) and reported positive attitudes towards prevention (86.5%). However, only 52.2% exhibited good IPC practices. Significant variations were observed across professional cadres.
Conclusion: Although HCWs demonstrated adequate knowledge and favorable attitudes towards LF prevention, gaps remain in IPC practices. Addressing these gaps requires targeted interventions, including consistent provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), dissemination of information, education and communication (IEC) materials within healthcare facilities, and strengthening IPC committees to ensure adherence to standard protocols at both facility and community levels.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Joshua Charles Isirima, Chinasa Godsgift Eni.
Page No : 35-52
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Effect of Jute Leaves on Indomethacin-Induced Ulcer.
Abstract
Excessive stomach acid secretion can erode oesophageal tissue, causing swelling, bleeding, and occasionally a peptic ulcer disease. This study aimed to understand the dose-dependent effect of Corchorus olitorius to ameliorate the effects of gastric acid secretion. 44 rats were divided into 2 groups: pre- and post-treatment groups, which were further subdivided into 6 groups each. The pretreatment group had the normal control, negative control, standard group receiving 0.2ml/kg of oral sucralfate and 3 groups receiving Corchorus olitorius extract at doses of 0.9ml/kg, 1.8ml/kg and 3.6ml/kg, respectively. All animals in the pretreatments were orally administered the extract for 7 days. On the 8th day, all except the normal group were induced with a gastric ulcer using indomethacin. After 24hours, the rats were sedated using diethyl ether, their stomachs were all harvested, and then, blood samples were collected. It was observed that indomethacin caused severe gastric ulcers, which were reversed by Corchorus olitorius extract. Visible changes were observed in immunoglobulin levels, indicating the anti-inflammatory and mucosal protective properties of this treatment.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Osibemekun Fiyinfoluwa Temitope, Nnodimele Onuigbo Atulomah (Ph.D.).
Page No : 53-74
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Factors Associated with Adherence to Safety-Protocols in Handling Medical Wastes Among Healthcare Workers in a Selected Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Lagos State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Background: The safe handling of medical waste is critical to preventing occupational
exposures and reducing public health risks, particularly in resource constrained settings like Nigeria. Despite institutional policies and global guidelines, adherence to safety protocols among healthcare workers appears inconsistent. Similarly, studies to determine the reasons for this inconsistency remain unsolved. Therefore, this risk behavior diagnostic study guided by behavior theories assessed predictors of adherence to safety protocols among healthcare workers (HCWs) at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
Methods: A cross-sectional survey study design was employed, involving 403 consenting
healthcare practitioners selected by stratified sampling technique. A validated structured 55-
item questionnaire was used for data collection and analysis was performed by the computer-assisted statistical software IBM SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize measures of variables in the study, while inferential statistics including ANOVA and logistic regression analyses were used to assess relationships between independent variables and adherence behavior, and to determine variables with significant predictive value at 5% level of significance.
Results: Findings revealed that respondents scored (26.1 ± 2.3) on a 33-point scale for self-
reported adherence behavior representing a prevalence of 79.1% with above average
knowledge of 63.6%, and mean score of (8.9 ± 2.1), strong motivation of 83.6%, and mean
score of (27.6 ± 1.8), and good behavioral skills of 78.2% and mean score of (25.8 ± 1.9).
Tetanus vaccination was below expectation (34.7%) and disposal of contaminated PPE was
equally unacceptably low (29.8%). Logistic regression revealed motivation as the strongest predictor of adherence (β = 0.61, p = 0.004), followed by behavioral skills (β = 0.57, p= 0.002) and knowledge (β = 0.48, p = 0.008). ANOVA indicated a significant difference in adherence across job roles with Nurses and HCWs with 6–10 years of experience showing significantly
higher adherence (p = 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively).
Conclusions and recommendations: The study concludes that multiple factors are involved
in the dynamics of adherence to safety protocols in medical waste handling. While HCWs demonstrate foundational knowledge, skills and generally high levels of motivation, intrinsic motivation was the most significant determinant of adherence. Interventions should therefore emphasize motivational reinforcement, continuous training, and supportive workplace environments to sustain high adherence. Strengthening institutional policies and promoting a safety-oriented culture can further safeguard healthcare workers. These measures align with
global occupational health goals and can reduce infections and environmental risks associated with medical waste.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Possible Okikiola Akanbi, Ogechi Cecilia Ofor, Ekaba Samson Gift, Chinedum Okafor, Oluwanifemi Omodara Ogunleye, Margaret Seun Ijibadejo, Oghenefejiro Dorcas Efeurhobo, Deborah Olufunmilayo Adejumo, Leah Titilayo Olawumi.
Page No : 75-87
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The Impact of Hydroquinone on Kidney Health.
Abstract
Hydroquinone (1,4-dihydroxybenzene) is a chemical substance with widespread uses in cosmetics, industry, and medicine as a skin-lightening agent and antioxidant. In this article, the chemical nature of hydroquinone, metabolic transformations involved, and toxicological significance, with emphasis on its renal impact have been addressed. Even though hydroquinone is anti-hyperpigmentary and anti-melasmic, it has significant risks due to its ability to cause oxidative stress, nephrotoxicity, and systemic toxicity after prolonged exposure. The medication is metabolized into reactive metabolites with the ability to damage renal tissues and disrupt cellular redox homeostasis. Chronic exposure, especially via unregulated cosmeceuticals, increases the likelihood of adverse health effects like kidney damage, exogenous ochronosis, and carcinogenicity. Hydroquinone product prevalence in locales of elevated skin lightening demand—is fueled by sociocultural constructions of beauty—underscores the need for greater regulatory oversight and education. This article emphasizes the importance of cosmetovigilance as a public health approach and endorses global regulatory measures to minimize the risks in the application of hydroquinone while ensuring consumer safety.
| 6 |
Author(s):
Gilbert Ayimaleh, Marcel Kitissou.
Page No : 88-114
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Catastrophic Health Expenditure and Infant Mortality Rate in Southwest Region of Cameroon, Policy Recommendation.
Abstract
Catastrophic health expenditure has emerged as one of the most persistent barriers to achieving universal health coverage in developing nations since 2005. In Cameroon, particularly within the Southwest Region, high out-of-pocket spending on healthcare has intensified household poverty levels and restricted access to essential maternal and child health services. This study investigates the relationship between catastrophic health expenditure and the infant mortality rate in the Southwest Region of Cameroon using secondary data covering the period from 2005 to 2016. The analysis explores how rising healthcare costs and financial shocks at the household level contribute to preventable infant deaths and poor health outcomes.
Data were obtained from reliable international and national sources, including the World Bank, World Health Organization, Demographic and Health Surveys, and the National Institute of Statistics. Using a descriptive and correlational approach, the study examines both the trend and magnitude of catastrophic health expenditure alongside infant mortality patterns over the last two decades. The findings reveal a strong positive association between the financial burden of healthcare and the level of infant mortality, particularly among low-income and uninsured households. Regions where healthcare costs consume a large share of family income consistently show higher rates of infant deaths, reflecting the vulnerability of poor families to financial hardship. The study underscores the urgent need for policy action aimed at reducing out-of-pocket health spending and improving the affordability of quality care. Recommended interventions include expanding community-based and national health insurance schemes, providing targeted subsidies for maternal and child healthcare, and investing in accessible primary healthcare infrastructure. Moreover, strengthening monitoring and data systems to track catastrophic health expenditure and infant mortality indicators is crucial for informed decision-making. The findings reaffirm that effective financial protection policies are central to improving infant survival and achieving sustainable health outcomes in the Southwest Region of Cameroon.
| 7 |
Author(s):
Daniel-Alpheaus Chioma Irene, Olanrewaju Motunrayo F. (Prof.).
Page No : 115-124
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Impact of Social Engagement on Self-Care Behaviors in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Southwestern Nigeria.
Abstract
Effective self-care is crucial for managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), as it helps prevent complications, reduces hospitalizations, and enhances quality of life. However, in low-resource settings, adherence to self-care practices such as medication use, blood glucose monitoring, diet, physical activity, and foot care remains poor due to inadequate knowledge, weak social support, and systemic barriers. To address these gaps, this study examined the effects of a social-behavioural engagement programme, a structured ten-week intervention combining social support, role-play, and educational sessions, on self-care management among adults with type 2 diabetes in Teaching Hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria.
The study adopted a quasi-experimental design with one intervention and one control group. The population comprised adults aged 30-70 with diagnosed T2DM attending outpatient diabetes clinics. A total of 60 participants were systematically selected from Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (intervention site) and Babcock University Teaching Hospital (control site). The sample size was determined using Katz, et al., 2013, N = (Zα + Zβ)2 x P0(1 – P0)/ (P1 – P0).
Data were collected using a validated and reliable researcher-developed questionnaire based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED model (Cronbach’s alpha =0.70–0.82). Data were analysed using paired and independent sample t-tests at a 5% level of significance with SPSS version 23.0.
Findings showed a significant improvement in self-care management from 19.73±3.05 to 30.30±2.91 (t(29)=15.48, p < .001). The study concludes that the Social-behavioral engagement programme substantially improved the Psychosocial and behavioural components of self-care management among adults with T2DM. It recommends that similar structured interventions be adopted and scaled across teaching Hospitals in Nigeria to enhance diabetes control and patient outcomes.
| 8 |
Author(s):
Ajayi Oluwaseun Chidera, Atulomah Nnodiemele O. S. (Prof.), Ukachukwu Soyama Felix, Aina Oluwaseun James , Akinbode Abiola , Agboola Segun Mattew.
Page No : 125-135
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Impact of Occupational-Risk Intervention Program on Knowledge and Perception of Safety Practices Among Artisans in Southwest Nigeria.
Abstract
Background: Hazards in the workplace pose a major, yet often overlooked, problem globally, particularly in developing countries. Although research on work-related injuries and illnesses among artisans in low- and middle-income countries (lmics) like Nigeria are limited and of varying qualities, available reports suggest that work-related mortality rates in lmics are higher than those in high-income countries. Therefore, this study assessed the effect of Occupational Risk Intervention Program on knowledge and perception towards safety practices among artisans in South West Nigeria. Methodology: The study employed a quasi-experimental design. A sample size of 30 artisan’s workers for each group was derived using the Power formula. Two states were selected purposively from six states in southwest Nigeria. Two Local Government Areas were randomly selected in Lagos States as the Experimental group (EG) and two LGAs were selected in Ekiti state as the Control group (CG). A structured validated questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha reliability index ranging from 0.703 to 0.812 was used to collect data. Data was collected at baseline, immediate post-intervention and six weeks follow-up. Data was analysed using descriptive, and inferential statistics at 5% level of significance. Results: Findings showed that at baseline, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the mean scores of knowledge of safety practices for EG (5.62 ± 0.38) and CG (8.07 ± 0.23). There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the mean scores of perception towards safety practices for EG (29.50 ± 2.00) and CG (28.15 ± 1.44). Furthermore, there was a significant difference (p 0.05) in the knowledge and perception of safety practices among artisans in the control group and artisans in the experimental group at 12th follow up, greatly due to the occupational-risk intervention program. Conclusion: The implementation of an educational intervention program has the potential to increase the knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy of artisans towards safety practices and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), ultimately leading to a reduction in occupational risks and hazards. As a consequence, the educational intervention program had a significant impact on the level of knowledge and perception towards safety practices with a very large margin between the 12th week follow-up safety practices score and the baseline safety score. The educational intervention program had a significant impact on the level of knowledge and perception towards safety practices among artisans in southwest Nigeria.
| 9 |
Author(s):
Abdullahi Walla Hamisu, Kfutwah Anfumbom Kitu Womeyi, Jimoh Abdullateef, Tekle Brook Tesfaye, Doungmo Wakem Yannick Arthur, Ouedraogo Silemane, Kikoo-Olonge Jean Claude, Ibrahim Ibrahim Idris.
Page No : 136-145
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Environmental Surveillance Footprint in the African Region, 2024.
Abstract
The gold standard for poliovirus detection in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) is the Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance. Environmental Surveillance (ES) complements AFP surveillance. Environmental Surveillance is the regular collection of sewage or wastewater that is contaminated with human faecal matter and testing the sample in the laboratory for the presence of poliovirus. The African region first initiated ES in 2011 in Nigeria and by December 2024, a total of 46 of the 47 countries in the region have initiated ES. The anticipated eradication of polio in the next few years brings to the fore the imperative of enhancing polio surveillance, and especially ES. It is therefore imperative for the region to ensure adequate ES footprint, especially in polio high-risk areas and sustain ES site sensitivity for timely detection of poliovirus transmission to enable prompt response. The regional polio laboratory network should be capacitated to accommodate ES expansion. In addition, ES has the potential to be upgraded to detect other pathogens of public health significance.
| 10 |
Author(s):
Obube Motunrayo Ibukun, Andrew Olu Fadoju (Prof.), Oyewole O. Oyerinde (Prof.), Obube Olumide Abiodun, Bello Olufunmilayo Esther, Fabiyi Gbolahan Akanji.
Page No : 146-156
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Impact of Edutainment on Knowledge and Attitude Towards Utilization of Sexual Health Among in-School Adolescents in Selected Secondary Schools in Lagos State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Background: Adolescence is a pivotal stage of life marked by rapid physical, emotional, and social changes, which play a crucial role in shaping an individual’s future health and well-being. During this time, adolescents begin to form their identities, develop independence, and make decisions that can have long-lasting effects on their health Therefore, this study assessed the Impact of edutainment on knowledge and attitude of sexual health services utilization among in-school adolescents in Lagos State, Nigeria.
Methodology: The study employed a quasi-experimental design. A sample size of 30 Adolescents for each group was derived using the Power formula. Two Local Government Areas were randomly selected in Lagos State. Ikorodu was the Experimental group (EG) and Eti-osa was the Control group (CG). A structured validated questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha reliability index ranging from 0.7 to 0.8 was used to collect data. Data was collected at baseline, immediate post-intervention and six weeks follow-up. Data was analysed using descriptive, and inferential st gAatistics at 5% level of significance.
Results: Findings showed that at baseline, The mean knowledge score for the control group is 1.00 ± 0.59 (SE = 0.11), which falls into the "Low" category, suggesting that participants in this group generally have very limited baseline knowledge of sexual health services. The mean attitude score for the control group was 7.81 (SE = 1.07) with a standard deviation of 3.55, while the experimental group had a mean score of 6.67 (SE = 0.33) with a standard deviation of 0.58. Both scores fall within the low attitude category. The effect size (ES) was 26.64 with a 95% confidence interval of 4.84 to 5.03, indicating a very large effect of the intervention on knowledge improvement. The effect size (ES) of 14.41, with a 95% confidence interval of 30.71 to 34.24, highlights the substantial and meaningful impact of the intervention on the adolescents' attitudes.
Conclusion: This research highlights the significant role of targeted educational interventions in improving adolescents' knowledge, attitudes of sexual health services (SHS). Prior to the intervention, both the control and experimental groups exhibited low levels of knowledge, unfavorable attitudes. However, after the intervention, the experimental group showed marked improvement in all areas, demonstrating the effectiveness of educational efforts in addressing common barriers such as misinformation, stigma, and lack of awareness.
