Level and Manifestations of TB-Related Stigma Among People with Tuberculosis in Tanzania
Wilbard Deogratius Muhandiki,
Ndakibae Gabriel Mabega,
Lucas Eliaimringi Matemba,
Gerald Phares Mwing’a,
Oscar Leonard Kaswaga,
Hamimu Omary Kigumi,
Emmanuel Heriel Matechi,
Onay Godson Lwanzali,
Riziki Michael Kisonga,
Mangi Job Ezekiel,
Eliakimu Paul Kapyolo
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 5, September 2023
Pages:
63-71
Received:
3 August 2023
Accepted:
21 August 2023
Published:
6 September 2023
Abstract: Background: TB-related stigma is a recognized barrier to efforts to End TB. It affects early diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment and can potentially interrupt treatment. Understanding the dimension of TB-related stigma and its manifestations is critical to planning appropriate TB stigma reduction responses. However, this information is largely unknown in Tanzania. This study assessed the level and manifestations of self-TB-related stigma among people with TB. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was deployed to collect quantitative and qualitative data among people with TB in five regions of Tanzania between September 2021 and February 2022. Face-to-face interviews were used to obtain data from the participants using a modified questionnaire developed by the Stop TB Partnership to assess TB-related stigma among TB patients. Descriptive and thematic analysis were used to summarize and present findings. Results: Four hundred eighteen (418) participants were recruited, of whom 276 (66%) were males. The overall level of self-TB-related stigma was 40%, predominated by agreement of behaviours and attitudes limiting disclosure of TB status. TB-related stigma commonly manifested as social isolation, fear of contracting TB, verbal abuse, gossip, and an unwillingness to share eating utensils. Conclusion: This study showed a relatively moderate level of self-TB-related stigma among TB patients, characterized by fear of disclosure of TB status. Moreover, TB patients are inclined to be socially isolated, gossiped, and maltreated. These findings suggest the need to include TB stigma reduction responses in national TB prevention and control efforts.
Abstract: Background: TB-related stigma is a recognized barrier to efforts to End TB. It affects early diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment and can potentially interrupt treatment. Understanding the dimension of TB-related stigma and its manifestations is critical to planning appropriate TB stigma reduction responses. However, this information is lar...
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Research and Development of Drug Device Suitable for Pericoronitis Disinfection
Xue-Jing Lin,
Yong-Xin Chen,
Ming-Jun Wang,
Jie Zhou,
Qing Yuan,
Ling-Er Chen,
Shu-Lai Chen,
Li-Yu Man,
Diwas Sunchuri,
Zhu-Ling Guo
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 5, September 2023
Pages:
72-74
Received:
4 December 2022
Accepted:
26 December 2022
Published:
25 September 2023
Abstract: Objective: To solve the problems of non-uniform spraying, easy puncture and difficult to reach wisdom teeth in the treatment of pericoronitis. Methods: The design of this device includes a probe, a working part, a holding part and a storage part, the probe is located in the horizontal direction of the working part, the storage part is located in the vertical direction of the working part, the probe is provided with a cavity, the probe comprises an integrated probe, a probe body and a socket seat, the cavity from the socket seat to the probe pipe diameter is gradually reduced, the working part includes a gun body, the gun body is provided with a buffer cavity. A cylindrical piston, a return spring, an outlet pipe and a handle, the end of the outlet pipe is a conical nozzle corresponding to the tube cavity, the cylindrical piston is provided with a sealing rubber ring, the cylindrical piston is driven by the press handle in the buffer cavity, the holding part is a connecting cover, the connecting cover is provided with a liquid inlet pipe through the center hole into the bottom of the liquid storage bottle. Results: The device is designed into a pistol shape body for easy hand-holding, and the probe head is designed into a ball shape, which has no trauma and good spraying effect. Through the cylindrical piston and the spring with a certain pressure to speed up the potion infiltration. Conclusion: This device can effectively solve the ease, efficiency and safety of pericoronitis medication.
Abstract: Objective: To solve the problems of non-uniform spraying, easy puncture and difficult to reach wisdom teeth in the treatment of pericoronitis. Methods: The design of this device includes a probe, a working part, a holding part and a storage part, the probe is located in the horizontal direction of the working part, the storage part is located in th...
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Epidemiology, Health Implications, and Resilience Factors in Adolescent Marijuana Use: A Comprehensive Review
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 5, September 2023
Pages:
75-81
Received:
12 September 2023
Accepted:
4 October 2023
Published:
14 October 2023
Abstract: Background: Marijuana is a very common illicit drug used across the United States and around the world. It has many adverse effects on adolescents and societal health. Among adolescents, it can cause chronic brain damage and psychoactive effects. This literature review aims to discuss topics concerning the epidemiology of marijuana use, adverse health consequences, and risk and protective factors. In addition, the concept of resilience was explored in-depth. Review: Most marijuana users start in their adolescence. As the legal and social perspective of marijuana is beginning to change, many adolescents are beginning to view marijuana as harmless. However, marijuana use has negative effects on adolescents, such as on their brain development and neurocognitive functions. To prevent adolescents from engaging in marijuana use, researchers have identified risk and protective factors. In our review, we identified more risk factors for marijuana use than protective factors. Understanding these factors can help in developing intervention approaches and nurturing positive adaptation skills. Finally, regarding resilience and marijuana use, two levels could be identified, namely asset and contextual resource levels. Conclusion: The prevalence of marijuana use was found to be increasing among adolescents. In addition, the adverse consequences of marijuana use on adolescents were found to be pronounced, with both long- and short-term effects. Lastly, extensive insights were gained on the risk and protective factors related to marijuana use. Further research in relation to marijuana use and adolescents should look into ethnicity differences, social and economic costs, as well as analyzing resilience-associated protective factors that can aid in developing preventive interventions regarding marijuana use.
Abstract: Background: Marijuana is a very common illicit drug used across the United States and around the world. It has many adverse effects on adolescents and societal health. Among adolescents, it can cause chronic brain damage and psychoactive effects. This literature review aims to discuss topics concerning the epidemiology of marijuana use, adverse hea...
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