-
Research Article
Therapeutic Compliance Among Chronic HBV Carriers in Burkina Faso, 2021 - 2023
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
321-329
Received:
30 September 2025
Accepted:
3 December 2025
Published:
4 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20251306.11
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Background: Non-compliance with treatment is a major obstacle to reducing the morbidity and mortality of hepatitis B. According to the World Health Organization, solving the problem of non-compliance with treatment would represent significant progress. Burkina is a country with high endemicity and the factors associated with non-compliance with treatment remain poorly understood. Objective: This study aims to identify these factors and guide strategies. Methodology: This was a retrospective cohort study of 210 chronic carriers of hepatitis B from 2021-2023 in Burkina. The average scores for compliance with hygiene and dietary measures, compliance with medication intake and follow-up at the 6th; 12th, 18th, 24th month of our study were calculated. We speak of non-compliance with treatment if this average is < 75%. We conducted interviews with patients and performed a documentary review to collect data. The data were processed and analyzed by SAS 9.4® software. Results: The incidence of therapeutic non-compliance was 47.9%, including 60.9% among participants with a monthly income of less than 200,000 FCFA compared to 33.3% among those with an income greater than or equal to 200,000 FCFA. Adjusted for the values present, the factors associated with therapeutic non-compliance are monthly income <200,000 FCFA (p-value = 0.0066), inadequate knowledge of hepatitis B (p-value = 0.0440), age ≥ 50 years (p-value = 0.0191) and male gender (p-value = 0.0256). Conclusion: Hepatitis B treatment non-compliance remains a public health problem in Burkina. Factors associated with non-compliance include low income, inadequate knowledge of hepatitis B, age and gender. Addressing this requires making care more affordable, increasing awareness, diagnostic and management capacities.
Abstract: Background: Non-compliance with treatment is a major obstacle to reducing the morbidity and mortality of hepatitis B. According to the World Health Organization, solving the problem of non-compliance with treatment would represent significant progress. Burkina is a country with high endemicity and the factors associated with non-compliance with tre...
Show More
-
Research Article
Level of Awareness on Prevention of Injuries Among Soapstone Mine Workers in Tabaka, Kisii County, Kenya
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
330-337
Received:
26 October 2025
Accepted:
8 November 2025
Published:
9 December 2025
Abstract: Mining is an industry that significantly contributes to the improvement of economic growth and development in many countries. The global rates of occupational injuries, illnesses and fatalities associated with mining are alarming. The international Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that quarrying activities accounts for 8% of the world work related fatalities. Quarrying in Kenya creates employment opportunities, support local construction and a major source of national economy. Kisii County is enriched with soapstone resources in Tabaka which are mined and carved to form different sculptures that are sold both locally and internationally. Despite the enactment of legal and institutional frameworks many workers in different sectors work in the presence of occupational hazards which lead to huge burden of accidents, and occupational injuries. The objective of the study was to assess the level of awareness on prevention of injuries among soapstone mine workers in Tabaka, Kisii County, Kenya. The research adopted cross sectional design from a population of 222 soapstone mine workers from five selected registered self-help groups involved in mining and carving of soapstone products. A sample of 174 was proportionately randomly selected from the five self-help groups. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on nature and frequency of accidents and awareness on prevention measures on occupational hazards. An interview was conducted with the quarry managers and key informants involved in occupational safety and health. An observational checklist was used to record how quarry activities were performed. Data collected was cleaned, coded, tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 21.0. It was established that 43.1% of the miners were involved in the main activity of cutting of soapstone into different sizes and shapes. More than half, 58.6% of the miners were aware mining has occupational hazards but were not trained (63.8%) to identify occupation hazards. Respondents were aware of use of protective equipment 55.2% but 53.3% had not been trained on occupational health and safety with 53.4% soapstone miners not reporting the accidents. The study revealed statistical significance on training and identification of hazards (p<0.001), awareness on prevention of occupation injuries (p<0.001), wearing PPE (p<0.001), type of PPE (p=0.017) and trainer of OSH with awareness on prevention of occupation injuries. The study concluded that the respondents could identify occupational health and safety hazards and related effects of soapstone quarrying activities. However, soapstone mine workers lacked awareness on prevention of injuries and occupation safety.
Abstract: Mining is an industry that significantly contributes to the improvement of economic growth and development in many countries. The global rates of occupational injuries, illnesses and fatalities associated with mining are alarming. The international Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that quarrying activities accounts for 8% of the world work relat...
Show More
-
Research Article
Assessment of Blood Lead Level and Knowledge of Health Hazards, Safety Practices and Work Habits Amongst Battery Technicians in Nigeria
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
338-347
Received:
5 November 2025
Accepted:
19 November 2025
Published:
17 December 2025
Abstract: Battery technicians who repair lead-acid batteries are consistently exposed to elemental lead, which poses a significant occupational health risk. This exposure is associated with an elevated risk of developing serious lead related diseases and long-term disability. Understanding the interplay between occupational practices, knowledge of hazards, and actual lead exposure is critical for developing effective public health interventions in this high-risk occupational group. The primary objective of this study was to comprehensively assess the blood lead levels (BLLs) of battery technicians, and evaluate their current knowledge of lead health hazards, their attitude towards preventive measures, their adherence to safety practices, and their general work habits. This investigation employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design. The study population comprised a total of 150 currently active battery technicians operating within a defined geographical area. Data collection was performed using a structured, pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire. This instrument gathered information on socio-demographics, detailed knowledge of lead's health hazards, specific safety practices utilized, and daily work and personal hygiene habits. The BLLs were concurrently measured for all participants using an appropriate laboratory technique. Statistical analysis, including the Chi-square test, was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 20, to test for significant associations, with the significance level set at p≤0.05. Analysis of the data revealed that a substantial proportion of the technicians exhibited elevated BLLs. Key findings indicated that knowledge regarding the appropriate use of a rubber apron, attitude towards the inhalation of lead fumes, and the crucial habit of face washing before eating/smoking were all significantly associated with the measured blood lead level of the battery technicians (p≤0.05). These results underscore that specific behavioral practices directly correlate with the biological burden of lead exposure. The study concludes that there is an urgent need to improve occupational hygiene and health literacy among battery technicians. It is strongly recommended that workplaces ensure the provision and mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly rubber aprons and face masks. Furthermore, intensified health education and regular training on the proper use of PPE, the provision of readily available running water at all workplaces for personal hygiene, and targeted behavioral change communication are essential strategies that will promote consistent personal hygiene habits and, ultimately, reduce the significant occupational lead burden for this vulnerable workforce.
Abstract: Battery technicians who repair lead-acid batteries are consistently exposed to elemental lead, which poses a significant occupational health risk. This exposure is associated with an elevated risk of developing serious lead related diseases and long-term disability. Understanding the interplay between occupational practices, knowledge of hazards, a...
Show More
-
Research Article
Assessment of Pre-hospital Management for Major Trauma Patients at a Tertiary Hospital in Khartoum State, Sudan, 2022
Sabir Abosror*
,
Ahmad Izzoddeen,
Dyaeldin Elsayed
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
348-353
Received:
9 November 2025
Accepted:
22 November 2025
Published:
20 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20251306.14
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Background: Trauma is defined as physical injury resulting from exposure to external energy. Major trauma poses a significant public health challenge in Sudan, where effective pre-hospital care is critical for survival and better outcomes, yet remains underdeveloped. This study aimed to quantitatively assess the pre-hospital management received by major trauma patients at a tertiary hospital in Khartoum State. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted at Ibrahim-Malik Hospital in August 2022. We enrolled 308 major trauma patients via consecutive sampling. Data on demographics, trauma characteristics, and the delivery of 14 predefined standard interventions were collected via face-to-face interviews. The primary outcome was the proportion of needed interventions actually delivered. Results: The majority of participants were male (79%) and aged 17-40 years (80%). The most common injury mechanisms were road traffic accidents (24%), being hit by solid objects (24%), and stab wounds (23%). Only 2% of patients were transported by ambulance. While 73% received some form of first aid, merely 3% received it from a trained person. Critically, 81% of patients received less than 40% of their needed interventions. Significant gaps were identified in managing airway obstruction (only 13% of affected patients received care) and controlling bleeding (59%). Conclusion: Pre-hospital trauma care in Khartoum is significantly inadequate, characterized by reliance on untrained laypersons, severely limited ambulance services, and a critical deficit in essential intervention delivery. Urgent establishment of a formal pre-hospital care system, including community first responder training and expanded ambulance coverage, is imperative to mitigate preventable trauma deaths and disabilities.
Abstract: Background: Trauma is defined as physical injury resulting from exposure to external energy. Major trauma poses a significant public health challenge in Sudan, where effective pre-hospital care is critical for survival and better outcomes, yet remains underdeveloped. This study aimed to quantitatively assess the pre-hospital management received by ...
Show More
-
Research Article
Predictors of AIDS-defining and Non-AIDS-defining Cancers Among PLHIV Accessing Services in Selected Hospitals in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
354-368
Received:
8 August 2025
Accepted:
16 September 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20251306.15
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Human infection with HIV compromises the immune system and reduces the body’s ability to fight viral infections that may promote the development of certain types of cancers. The diagnosis of AIDS-defining cancers in PLHIV indicates the progression of an HIV infection to the AIDS stage. Non-AIDS-defining cancers occur in HIV-positive individuals without necessarily being caused or exacerbated by HIV infection. WHO estimates that 39.9 million are PLHIV, whereas 42.3 million lives have been lost to HIV. Kenya’s HIV prevalence was 3.3% and in Nairobi, 4.3%. NCD mortalities in Kenya were 39%, including cancers, up from 27% and HIV remains a major risk factor. This study’s main purpose was to identify the predictors of AIDS-defining and non-AIDS-defining cancers among PLHIV accessing services in selected hospitals in Nairobi City County, Kenya. An analytical cross-sectional design was used. Study sites were purposively selected, whereas a simple random method was used to select 406 adults, aged 18 years and above, HIV positive and on ART. The study was conducted in seven selected facilities in Nairobi County. Quantitative data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, whereas qualitative data were obtained from seven key informant interviews and three focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics (percentages, graphs, and charts) and inferential statistics (chi-square and logistic regression models) were performed using SPSS v. 27. Qualitative data were transcribed, coded, and grouped into themes. AIDS-defining cancers were the most prevalent (74.6%) among PLHIV accessing services in the selected hospitals. A Pearson’s Chi-square (X2) test revealed that socio-demographic characteristics such as sex (p = 0.00), age in years (45-54 for AIDS-defining cancer and 65 and above for Non-AIDS-defining cancers) (p = 0.00), marital status (married and widowers for ADC and NADC, p = 0.02) and level of education (secondary and ‘other’ for ADC and NADC respectively; p = 0.005) were associated with the type of cancer development among people living with HIV. A binary logistic regression model found that age (χ2(5) = 14.96, p = 0.011), income level (X2 (5) = 9.96; p = 0.076), history of cigarette smoking (B = 1.53; p = 0.001; OR = 4.638; 95% CI: 2.28 – 9.42), alcohol consumption (B = 0.295; p = 0.356), family history of cancers (B = 1.04; p = 0.001; OR = 2.827; 95% CI: 1.61 – 4.97), were statistically associated with AIDS and non-AIDS-defining cancers. These findings will help formulate programmatic and policy interventions for ADC and NADC among PLHIV.
Abstract: Human infection with HIV compromises the immune system and reduces the body’s ability to fight viral infections that may promote the development of certain types of cancers. The diagnosis of AIDS-defining cancers in PLHIV indicates the progression of an HIV infection to the AIDS stage. Non-AIDS-defining cancers occur in HIV-positive individuals wit...
Show More
-
Research Article
Knowledge, Attitudes and Prevention Practices of the Populations of Tchaourou and Parakou (Benin) Regarding Monkeypox
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
369-375
Received:
15 November 2025
Accepted:
4 December 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20251306.16
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Introduction: Monkeypox is a re-emerging viral zoonosis that poses a serious threat to public health, particularly in West Africa. A precise understanding of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of the population is essential for designing effective community-based responses. This study aimed to assess the level of KAP in the population and to identify factors independently associated with good KAP. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted in Tchaourou and Parakou, in the Borgou department of Benin, between February and April 2025. A total of 427 people were included. Cumulative scores for knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices regarding monkeypox were calculated. Three linear regression models were used to identify factors associated with good knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Results: Mean score of knowledge was 56.0%, mean score of attitude 67.0%, and mean score of practice only 44.3%. Factors significantly associated with an increase in the level of knowledge were higher education level (coefficient = 3.22; 95% CI: [1.98; 5.24]) and access to media (coefficient = 1.95; 95% CI: [1.19; 3.21]). Positive attitude was related to good knowledge (coefficient = 1.88; 95% CI: [1.26; 2.80]) and age (coefficient = 1.65; 95% CI: [1.09–2.50]). Regarding good practices, a positive attitude (coefficient = 2.85; 95% CI: [1.97; 4.13]) and female sex (coefficient = 1.62; 95% CI: [1.11; 2.37]) were significant predictors. Conversely, being a farmer/livestock breeder (coefficient = -0.35; 95% CI [-0.74; -0.22]) and living in a rural area (coefficient = -0.59; 95% CI [-0.81; -0.37]) were associated with poor practices. Conclusion: Although the overall attitude is relatively positive, this study reveals significant gaps in knowledge and, especially, in the adoption of effective preventive practices. Targeted interventions are recommended, including the use of communication channels adapted to low-education populations and communication strategies for behavioral change.
Abstract: Introduction: Monkeypox is a re-emerging viral zoonosis that poses a serious threat to public health, particularly in West Africa. A precise understanding of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of the population is essential for designing effective community-based responses. This study aimed to assess the level of KAP in the population an...
Show More
-
Research Article
Influence of Phone and Internet Use on the Use of Insecticide-treated Bed Nets Among Pregnant Women: Analysis of DHS 2021 Data
Sekou Sidate Sylla*,
Almamy Amara Toure,
Boubacar Bamba Keita,
Mamadou Billo Aye Barry,
Naby Camara,
Nouonan Gbamou,
Jolie Kasongo Kayembe,
Ibrahima 1 Bah,
Alseny Yarie Camara,
Mamady Sidibe,
Mamadou Diakite
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
376-389
Received:
19 November 2025
Accepted:
10 December 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20251306.17
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Background: Malaria remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among pregnant women. Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are an effective preventive measure; however, their use in Guinea remains below the World Health Organization’s recommended threshold of at least 80%. At the same time, the rapid expansion of information and communication technologies, particularly mobile phones and the Internet, provides new opportunities to promote positive health behaviors. Nevertheless, little is known about the influence of these technologies on ITN use among pregnant women in Guinea. This study aimed to assess the association between mobile phone and Internet use and ITN utilization among pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted based on secondary analysis of data from the 2021 Guinea Malaria and Anemia Indicator Survey (EIPAG). The study population included women aged 15–49 years who had given birth within the three years preceding the survey. Data analyses were performed using R software version 4.1.3 to describe the sample, conduct bivariate analyses, logistic regression, and regression tree modeling to identify predictive factors. Results: Among the participants, 2,225 women (57%) reported sleeping under an ITN the night before the survey. After adjustment, mobile phone use (73%) and Internet use (24%) were not significantly associated with ITN utilization. In contrast, several factors were significantly associated with higher ITN use, including higher parity (OR = 1.43; 95% CI: 1.17–1.76 for 2–5 children and OR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.32–2.24 for ≥6 children), attending at least four antenatal care visits (OR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.17–1.73), access to radio (OR = 1.25; 95% CI: 1.07–1.45), and receiving malaria prevention messages (OR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.32–1.77). Conversely, large household size and an indirect relationship to the household head were associated with lower ITN use. Conclusion: Mobile phone and internet use had no significant influence on ITN utilization among pregnant women in Guinea. Factors such as household size, relationship to the household head, access to radio, parity, and number of ANC visits were significant predictors of ITN use. Strengthening programs aimed at improving ANC attendance, enhancing radio access, and intensifying media campaigns are recommended to optimize ITN utilization among pregnant women.
Abstract: Background: Malaria remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among pregnant women. Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are an effective preventive measure; however, their use in Guinea remains below the World Health Organization’s recommended threshold of at least 80%. At the same time, the rapid expansion of...
Show More
-
Research Article
Attitudes Toward Food Safety Among Street Food Vendors in Demerara-Mahaica, Guyana
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
390-410
Received:
30 November 2025
Accepted:
10 December 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20251306.18
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Street food vending provides an important source of income and affordable meals in Guyana; however, its largely informal nature raises persistent concerns regarding food safety and public health. Vendors’ attitudes toward food safety are critical, as attitudes influence food-handling behaviors and can ultimately affect the risk of foodborne illness. Despite this relevance, no empirical study in Guyana has previously examined food safety attitudes among street food vendors, creating a notable gap in the food safety literature. This study aimed to assess food safety attitudes among night street food vendors in the Demerara-Mahaica region and to examine the extent to which demographic characteristics are associated with these attitudes. Demographic and attitude data were derived from a larger street food safety survey, in which a questionnaire was administered to 104 vendors between April and June 2024. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize overall attitude patterns. At the same time, hypothesis tests using the chi-square test, t-tests, ANOVA, and binary logistic regression assessed associations between attitudes and demographic characteristics. The results show that most vendors demonstrated a positive attitude toward general food safety principles; however, notable misconceptions emerged in areas requiring a technical understanding. These include proper thawing, refreezing, cross-contamination, and the cold storage hierarchy. Statistically significant associations were identified between a few high-risk attitude items and overall attitude scores. The logistic regression model comprises education level and place of schooling, and, based on the Nagelkerke R2 statistic, it explains 10% of the variation in attitude scores. These findings indicate that although vendors value food safety, targeted, context-appropriate education is necessary to address persistent misconceptions that may compromise safe practices. Efforts to strengthen vendor training, enhance risk communication, and support regulatory oversight could meaningfully improve food safety outcomes within Guyana’s informal street food sector.
Abstract: Street food vending provides an important source of income and affordable meals in Guyana; however, its largely informal nature raises persistent concerns regarding food safety and public health. Vendors’ attitudes toward food safety are critical, as attitudes influence food-handling behaviors and can ultimately affect the risk of foodborne illness...
Show More
-
Research Article
Analysis of Health System Preparedness for Monkeypox Response in Benin
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
411-417
Received:
15 November 2025
Accepted:
18 December 2025
Published:
31 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20251306.19
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Introduction: Benin, as a West African country sharing borders with high-risk areas, is on the front lines of the threat of Monkeypox (Mpox) epidemics. This study aimed to assess the preparedness of the Beninese health system for this emerging zoonotic risk. Method: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and qualitative approach was conducted from April to September 2025, structured into three phases: documentary analysis of national regulatory documents, interviews with strategic managers (central and departmental directorates), and direct observation of Epidemic Treatment Centers (ETCs). Results: The analysis revealed a robust regulatory framework (National Preparedness and Response Plan for Monkeypox, updated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)) aligned with the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005). Interviews confirmed strong inter-institutional coordination, led by the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC). Observation of the ETCs revealed high operational capacity, with trained human resources, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and medical supplies satisfactorily prepositioned. Conclusion: These results demonstrate good overall preparedness of the Beninese health system, transforming lessons learned from previous crises into a proactive and organized response strategy, although the sustainability of logistical supplies and regular simulation exercises must remain a priority.
Abstract: Introduction: Benin, as a West African country sharing borders with high-risk areas, is on the front lines of the threat of Monkeypox (Mpox) epidemics. This study aimed to assess the preparedness of the Beninese health system for this emerging zoonotic risk. Method: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and qualitative approach was conducted from April t...
Show More
