Melanoma awareness in Jamaican patients at the University Hospital of the West Indies: A cross-sectional study.
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SUBMITTER: Thomas RD
PROVIDER: S-EPMC10910306 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jun
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
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Melanoma awareness in Jamaican patients at the University Hospital of the West Indies: A cross-sectional study.
Thomas Romario D RD East-Innis Althea D C ADC Charles Jamee J JJ Burton Andrew T W ATW Liburd Angela A Ruddock Rodane R Ho Jonathan D JD
JAAD international 20240104
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Project description:BackgroundChikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a re-emerging arboviral pathogen. In 2014, an explosive CHIKV outbreak occurred in Grenada, West Indies, infecting approximately 60% of the population. In approximately 50% of cases, CHIKV infection transitions to painful arthralgia that can persist for years. Elucidation of the risk factors for chronic disease is imperative to the development of effective risk management strategies and specific therapeutics.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study of 240 people who were tested for CHIKV during the outbreak. We administered questionnaires to examine demographic, behavioral, psychological, social, and environmental factors to identify associations with chronic disease. Physical examinations were performed and persistent symptoms were recorded.ResultsEthnicity and socioeconomic status were not associated with risk of chronic joint pain. Female sex increased risk, and age was demonstrated to be predictive of chronic CHIKV sequelae. Mosquito avoidance behaviors did not reduce risk. Patients suffering joint pains, generalized body ache, and weakness in the extremities during acute infection were more likely to develop chronic arthralgia, and an increased duration of acute disease also increased risk.ConclusionsThese data demonstrate that chronic CHIKV affects people across the ethnic and socioeconomic spectrum, and it is not reduced by vector avoidance activity. Increased duration of acute symptoms, in particular acute joint pain, was strongly correlated with the risk of persistent arthralgia, thus effective clinical management of acute CHIKV disease could reduce burden of chronic CHIKV.
| S-EPMC5753193 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundSpontaneous miscarriage is the most common complication of pregnancy, occurring in up to 20% of pregnancies. Despite the prevalence of miscarriage, little is known regarding peoples' awareness and understanding of causes of pregnancy loss. The aim of this study was to explore university students' understanding of rates, causes and risk factors of miscarriage.MethodsA cross-sectional study including university students. An online questionnaire was circulated to all students at the University College Cork using their university email accounts in April and May 2016. Main outcomes included identification of prevalence, weeks of gestation at which miscarriage occurs and causative risk factors for miscarriage.ResultsA sample of 746 students were included in the analysis. Only 20% (n = 149) of students correctly identified the prevalence of miscarriage, and almost 30% (n = 207) incorrectly believed that miscarriage occurs in less than 10% of pregnancies. Female were more likely to correctly identify the rate of miscarriage than men (21.8% versus 14.5%). However, men tended to underestimate the rate and females overestimate it. Students who did not know someone who had a miscarriage underestimated the rate of miscarriage, and those who were aware of some celebrities who had a miscarriage overestimated the rate. Almost 43% (n = 316) of students correctly identified fetal chromosomal abnormalities as the main cause of miscarriage. Females, older students, those from Medical and Health disciplines and those who were aware of a celebrity who had a miscarriage were more likely to identify chromosomal abnormalities as a main cause. However, more than 90% of the students believed that having a fall, consuming drugs or the medical condition of the mother was a causative risk factor for miscarriage. Finally, stress was identified as a risk factor more frequently than advanced maternal age or smoking.ConclusionAlthough almost half of the participants identified chromosomal abnormalities as the main cause of miscarriage, there is still a lack of understanding about the prevalence and most important risk factors among university students. University represents an ideal opportunity for health promotion strategies to increase awareness of potential adverse outcomes in pregnancy.
| S-EPMC6245715 | biostudies-literature
Project description:IntroductionAnxiety is a prevalent psychological issue among cancer patients, significantly affecting their quality of life and potentially influencing treatment outcomes. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of anxiety among cancer patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study design was used, involving 384 cancer patients, selected by systematic random sampling technique, from the oncology ward. Data were collected using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale and the Oslo Social Support Scale (OSS-3). Descriptive and inferential statistics, including bi-variable and multi-variable logistic regression analyses, were employed to analyze the data.ResultsThe prevalence of anxiety was 88.3%, with 34.4% of patients experiencing severe anxiety, 29.2% moderate anxiety, and 24.7% mild anxiety. Significant predictors of anxiety included participants age>= 61years (AOR = 2.99, 95% CI = 1.31-6.79), participants age 30-60 years (AOR = 4.13, 95% CI = 1.53-11.07), female sex (AOR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.02-4.07), advanced cancer stage (AOR = 3.08, 95% CI = 1.11-8.53), and ongoing treatment (AOR = 2.40, 95% CI = 1.14-5.10).ConclusionThe study found a high prevalence of anxiety among cancer patients, compared to the previous studies, highlighting the need for integrated psycho-oncology services. Specific interventions are necessary for high-risk groups, including older patients, females, and those with advanced-stage cancer.
| S-EPMC11778787 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BACKGROUND:Out-of-pocket expenditure constitutes high proportion of healthcare spending in low-income countries. It can affect patients' adherence to treatments leading to serious health consequences. The objective of this study was to document costs incurred by patients visiting Gondar University Referral Hospital, in Gondar, northwestern Ethiopia. METHODS:An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 346 outpatients at the hospital from 2nd to 20th of May 2016. Data collection took place through interviews with patients coming to the outpatient pharmacy after finishing their visits at the different departments in the hospital. Data were collected on socio-demographic information, cost incurred before and during hospital visit as well as ownership of household items. RESULTS:Among the 342 interviews included in the final analysis, a median total cost of 22.25 USD was incurred by patients. This constituted spending on solutions tried before hospital visit, direct medical, nonmedical and indirect costs. Among these, direct nonmedical and indirect costs constituted a large share. Medicine, transportation and waiting time during visit were major components of direct medical, nonmedical and indirect costs respectively. Total median cost was found to be predicted by residence, marital status and payment scheme used to pay for hospital services. CONCLUSIONS:Outpatients visiting the hospital incurred significant costs for illnesses/conditions associated with their visit to the hospital, the main components being nonmedical and indirect costs. Residence, marital status and payment scheme, predicted median total cost. Direct nonmedical costs and indirect costs were found to be significant components associated to the spending and loss of earning by patients and their families in their trip to and from the hospital.
| S-EPMC6225699 | biostudies-other
Project description:BackgroundLow back pain (LBP) is one of the most serious public health problem globally with substantial socioeconomic implications. Degenerative disc disease is an important cause of LBP in the elderly. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is routinely ordered by physicians in evaluation of patients with suspected degenerative disc disease in the lumbar spine. However there is no unanimous agreement in the literatures when it comes to the association of degree of disability to that of severity of lumbar MRI findings.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to assess the association between degree of disability measured using Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and findings on lumbar spine MRI in patients with degenerative disc disease at University of Gondar comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North West Ethiopia, 2020.Methods and materialsA prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 72 consecutively enrolled patients with degenerative disc disease who underwent lumbar MRI scan. Degree of disability was measured using ODI questionnaire translated to local language. Association between lumbar spine MRI parameters and ODI score and category was tested using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and Chi square tests.ResultsThe mean age of the study subjects was 43.81 ± 1.88 years (range 22-83 years). Forty-three (59.7%) of the study population were female. In terms of ODI category, most fell under minimal 33 (45.8%) or moderate 25 (34.7%) disability. Disc bulge (81.9%) and foraminal stenosis were the most frequent MRI abnormalities detected. ODI score showed weak correlation with grade of spinal canal stenosis. Grade of foraminal stenosis showed no correlation with ODI score.ConclusionThe clinical relevance of MRI findings in predicting degree of disability in patients with degenerative disc disease is limited and MRI study should be sparingly ordered in evaluation of these patients particularly in resource constrained settings.
| S-EPMC9354276 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) is the first commonest diagnosed cancer in men and the fourth commonest in women in Ethiopia. Awareness of CRC and associated factors is crucial in the prevention of CRC. However, there have not been studies about the awareness of CRC and associated factors among adult patients in Ethiopia. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the awareness of CRC and associated factors among adult patients in Jimma, South-West Ethiopia, 2020.MethodsThis institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 422 adult patients. The study respondents were recruited by a systematic random sampling method. The Cancer Awareness Measure questions were used to measure awareness of CRC of adult patients. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were conducted.ResultsMore than half (57.6%) of respondents had low-level awareness of CRC. Respondents who were females (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.26, 2.75), who are residing in urban areas (AOR = .45; 95% CI: .30, .67), who had a monthly income of 3000 Ethiopian Birr and above (AOR = 4.72; 95% CI: 3.11, 7.15), who heard about CRC (AOR = 4.48; 95% CI: 2.90, 6.93), who get information through social media about CRC (AOR = 2.51; 95% CI: 1.18, 5.37), and who had a family history of CRC (AOR = 3.27; 95% CI: 1.45, 7.36) had a high level of awareness of CRC, while those who cannot read and write (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.49, 5.37) and learn elementary school (AOR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.15, 3.93) had a low level of awareness of CRC.ConclusionThis study indicated that awareness of CRC of adult patients was inadequate. Adult patients' gender, residency, level of education, monthly income, heard about CRC, sources of information about CRC, and a family history of CRC were found to be independent predictors of the awareness of CRC. Therefore, there is a need for health education and awareness campaigns for promoting awareness of CRC of adult patients, and the government should develop policy on CRC prevention and screening program.
| S-EPMC8351030 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BACKGROUND:Surgical site infections (SSIs) are one of the leading causes of death, and its prevention is a key element of applying the concept of patient safety and quality care. OBJECTIVE:This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge about SSIs and risks of wound infection among medical physicians in King Abdulaziz University Hospital. METHODS:All surgical and medical consultants, specialists, residents, and medical interns were invited to participate in the study. A 20-Item multiple-choice questionnaire was developed by reviewing the previous literature and with the help of a group of certified surgeons to assess the level of knowledge in all participants. RESULTS:A total of 119 doctors were included in this study. Among all respondents, 92 (77.3%) were intern doctors, 16 (13.4%) were resident doctors, and 11 (9.2%) were specialist doctors. Moreover, 66 (55.5%) doctors knew the definition of SSI. Only one-quarter, that is, 30 (25.2%) doctors knew about the incidence of SSI. In addition, 8 doctors (6.7%) had good knowledge, 75 (63.0%) had fair knowledge, and 36 (30.2%) had poor knowledge regarding SSI according to this study. CONCLUSIONS:Level of knowledge about SSIs and risks of wound infections among medical physicians should be improved to ensure better wound care and quality care for the patients.
| S-EPMC6425309 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundThe health and safety of people are often endangered during emergencies and disasters. Efficient emergency management systems ensure that mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery actions exist to preserve the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Failure to carry out appropriate responses can have adverse consequences for both emergency responders and casualties; hence, the need for emergency preparedness. This study sought to assess the state of emergency preparedness capacity of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology hospital in Ghana.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2018 and February 2019 using three guidelines developed respectively by the World Health Organization, the Ministry of Health-Ghana, and the Ghana Health Service. The hospital's emergency preparedness was assessed regarding the emergency policies, plan, protocol, equipment, and medications.ResultsOverall, the hospital's emergency preparedness level was weak (57.36%). Findings revealed that the hospital had inadequate emergency equipment, and supplies for emergency care delivery, especially during upsurge. It also did not have an emergency planning committee. There were noticeable deficiencies in some emergency resources such as chest tubes, basic airway supplies, and many emergency drugs. Other vital emergency tools such as pulse oximeter, thermometer, and emergency medications were inadequate. The hospital had a strong emergency plan and policies on assessment (77.8% and 78%) respectively.ConclusionThe Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology hospital is not prepared sufficiently for an emergency surge, and this poses a major health challenge. Emergency items must be made available, and the organization and planning of emergency service provisions must be improved to avoid preventable deaths during an emergency surge.
| S-EPMC10491938 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Determination of miRNA profiles in most prominent mosquitoes will determine the potential targets for mosquito control Some of the most medically important viruses, such as dengue virus, West Nile virus, Zika virus, and yellow fever virus, are transmitted by mosquitoes. These aptly named arboviruses impose a tremendous cost to the health of populations around the world. As a result, much effort has gone into the study of the impact of these viruses in human infections. Comparatively less efforts, however, have been made to study the way these viruses interact with mosquitos themselves. It has long been held that these viruses are introduced into the midgut of mosquitoes upon ingestion of a blood meal before being transmitted within the saliva upon subsequent feeding. This sequence requires that the mosquito be able to defend itself from infection every step along the way-from ingesting bloodmeal to subsequent feeding. The main defense mechanisms employed by the mosquitoes to control viruses is RNA interference (RNAi). Modulation of this facet of the mosquito’s immune system would thereby suggest a practical strategy for vector control. This paper will provide an up to date overview of the mosquito’s immune system along with novel data describing miRNA profiles for Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasiatus in Grenada, West Indies.
2020-04-29 | GSE149518 | GEO
Project description:ObjectiveTo assess older patients' attitude towards deprescribing of inappropriate medications.DesignThis was an institutional-based, quantitative, cross-sectional survey.SettingOutpatient clinics of the University of Gondar Referral and Teaching Hospital in Ethiopia.ParticipantsPatients aged 65 or older with at least one medication were enrolled in the study from 1 March to 30 June 2017. Excluded patients were those who had severe physical or psychological problems and who refused to participate.Main outcome measuresOlder patients' attitude towards deprescribing was measured using a validated instrument, 'the revised Patients' Attitudes towards Deprescribing' (rPATD) tool for older patients. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics and clinical data such as comorbidity and polypharmacy, and the main outcome was older patients' willingness to deprescribe inappropriate medications.ResultsOf the 351 eligible participants, 316 patients completed the survey. Of the 316 patients, 54.7% were men and were taking a median of 3 (IQR: 2-4) medications daily. Overall, most of the participants (92.1%; 95% CI 89% to 95%) were satisfied with the medications they were taking; however, still a significant number of participants (81.6%; 95% CI 77% to 86%) were willing to stop one or more of their medications if possible and agreed by their doctors. This willingness was correlated with seven items of the rPATD, including a strong correlation with the overall satisfaction of patients with the medications taken.ConclusionMany older patients have shown their willingness to reduce one or more of their medications if their doctors said it was possible. Healthcare providers should be proactive in discussing and evaluating potentially inappropriate medications for better clinical decision making.
| S-EPMC5914769 | biostudies-literature