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Research Article
Physical Activity and Blood Sugar Control in Type 2 Diabetes Patients at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
124-134
Received:
21 April 2026
Accepted:
9 May 2026
Published:
19 May 2026
Abstract: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a growing public health burden in Kenya and in the globe. Regular physical activity remains a key non-pharmacological strategy for improving glycemic outcomes in type 2 diabetic patients. This study assessed the relationship between physical activity and blood sugar control among adults with T2DM attending the outpatient diabetes clinic at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, Nairobi, using a cross-sectional analytical design. Physical activity was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and converted into MET-min/week categories; clinical glycemic indicators were obtained from patient records and validated where necessary, with quantitative analysis conducted in SPSS. Data from 116 participants was analyzed. Most participants were found to be overweight (41.4%) or obese (27.6%). Random blood sugar levels showed that 25.0% were within the normal range (<7.8 mmol/L), 38.8% were elevated (7.8–11.0 mmol/L), and 36.2% were in the diabetes range (≥11.1 mmol/L). Reported physical activity participation was also generally high with Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET)-based categorization showing that 70.2% of the respondents had above average (≥3000 MET-min/week). A weak inverse association was as well observed between total energy expenditure (MET-min/week) and random blood sugar (r = −0.062). These findings suggest that although many patients report engaging in physical activity, the relationship with glycemic control may be limited or influenced by other factors such as weight status and broader lifestyle or clinical factors. Strengthening structured and monitored activity counselling alongside weight management support may therefore improve diabetes outcomes in this setting.
Abstract: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a growing public health burden in Kenya and in the globe. Regular physical activity remains a key non-pharmacological strategy for improving glycemic outcomes in type 2 diabetic patients. This study assessed the relationship between physical activity and blood sugar control among adults with T2DM attending the out...
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Research Article
Contribution of Community Health Workers in the Management of Malaria, Acute Respiratory Infections and Diarrhea in Children in Mali from 2010 to 2024
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
135-150
Received:
25 April 2026
Accepted:
6 May 2026
Published:
21 May 2026
Abstract: In Mali, community health workers (CHWs) were introduced in 2010 to implement Essential Community Care (ECC). This strategy aims to reduce high mortality rates (infant: 51.8‰; juvenile: 46.0‰) that exceed the targets of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.2 (25‰). Mortality is primarily caused by malaria (24%), pneumonia (11%), and diarrhea (8%), in a context of chronic shortages of skilled personnel. This study evaluated the outcomes and effectiveness of CHWs in managing these childhood illnesses. A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted from September 2022 to August 2025. Quantitative program data from 2010 to 2024 were extracted from the district health information system (DHIS2). The study covered the first five regions in Mali to implement Essential Community Care (ECC), involving 4,230 Community Health Workers (CHWs) and 415 key stakeholders. Data were collected via questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS v.25.0 and R software. The majority of CHWs were women (68.24%) and were between 28 and 38 years old (57.85%). Between 2010 and 2024, community health workers (CHWs) managed 2,429,438 cases of malaria (annual average: 269,938; 12.03% of all cases), 520,439 acute respiratory infections (ARIs) (annual average: 57,827; 6.89%), and 325,316 cases of diarrhea (annual average: 36,146; 14.19%) in the study areas. Satisfaction rates were 95% within the community and 67% among healthcare workers. CHWs demonstrate significant effectiveness in managing malaria, ARIs, and diarrhea. Although their role is essential and well-regarded by the community, ARIs coverage remains lower than that for other illnesses. Strengthening supply chains and supervision is crucial to maximizing their impact on reducing infant mortality in Mali.
Abstract: In Mali, community health workers (CHWs) were introduced in 2010 to implement Essential Community Care (ECC). This strategy aims to reduce high mortality rates (infant: 51.8‰; juvenile: 46.0‰) that exceed the targets of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.2 (25‰). Mortality is primarily caused by malaria (24%), pneumonia (11%), and diarrhea (8%), ...
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Research Article
Barriers to the Adoption of Healthy Behaviours Among Patients with Non-communicable Diseases at One Selected Referral Hospital in Rwanda
Liliane Nirere*,
Mukarugwiza Marguerite,
Rudashirikaka Jean de Dieu
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
151-164
Received:
10 May 2026
Accepted:
8 June 2026
Published:
26 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajhr.20261403.13
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Abstract: Background: Sub-Saharan Africa faces a growing epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) alongside persistent infectious diseases, creating a dual burden that strains limited healthcare resources. Although awareness and interventions promoting healthy behaviors have been introduced, many patients with NCDs continue to exhibit poor self-care practices. This study aimed to identify the barriers hindering the adoption of healthy behaviors among patients with NCDs at a referral hospital in Rwanda. Methodology: This study used a descriptive cross-sectional design with a quantitative approach. The target population included 300 patients enrolled in the NCD department of the selected referral hospital at the time of the study. A sample size of 171 participants was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula. Data were collected through a developed and validated self-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to examine associations between sociodemographic characteristics and barriers to adopting healthy behaviors. Cross-tabulations and statistical tests were used to assess the significance of these associations. Results: The most common barriers identified were financial constraints, such as the high cost of healthy food (38.6%), lack of structured exercise programs at workplaces (37.4%), and unfavorable working conditions (46.2%). Gender and education levels were significantly associated with challenges in physical activity (P=0.002) and smoking cessation (P=0.002), while age, education, and marital status were linked to different NCD categories (P=0.003, P=0.001, P=0.002, respectively). Conclusion: This study identified various personal, social, cultural, and economic barriers that hinder patients with NCD from adopting healthy behaviors. These barriers significantly impact patients' ability to choose healthier lifestyles. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted, context-specific interventions that address these challenges. Stakeholders are encouraged to consider these factors when designing and implementing strategies to prevent and manage NCD and promote sustainable and accessible health improvements for individuals living with NCD in Rwanda.
Abstract: Background: Sub-Saharan Africa faces a growing epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) alongside persistent infectious diseases, creating a dual burden that strains limited healthcare resources. Although awareness and interventions promoting healthy behaviors have been introduced, many patients with NCDs continue to exhibit poor self-care prac...
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Research Article
Development of a Binary Logistic Regression Model for Predicting Hypertension Risk Using Anthropometric and Lifestyle Variables
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
165-171
Received:
18 May 2026
Accepted:
2 June 2026
Published:
29 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajhr.20261403.14
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Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to develop a binary logistic regression model for predicting hypertension risk using selected anthropometric and lifestyle variables among adults. The dependent variable of the study was hypertension status, categorized as hypertensive and non-hypertensive individuals. The independent variables selected for the study included anthropometric variables such as Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference, hip circumference, waist-hip ratio, and body fat percentage, along with lifestyle variables including physical activity level, smoking habit, alcohol consumption, and sleep duration. A total of 200 adults aged between 30 and 60 years were selected as participants for the study using purposive sampling technique. Anthropometric measurements were obtained using standardized procedures, while lifestyle-related information was collected through structured questionnaires. Blood pressure measurements were recorded to classify participants into hypertensive and non-hypertensive groups according to standard clinical guidelines. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analysis. Odds ratios and confidence intervals were calculated to identify significant predictors of hypertension risk. The findings of the study revealed that BMI, waist circumference, body fat percentage, smoking habit, alcohol consumption, and reduced physical activity level were significant predictors of hypertension. The developed logistic regression model effectively predicted hypertension risk among adults. The study concluded that both anthropometric and lifestyle variables play an important role in the prediction of hypertension risk and that binary logistic regression modeling can be effectively used as a statistical approach for identifying individuals at greater risk of hypertension.
Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to develop a binary logistic regression model for predicting hypertension risk using selected anthropometric and lifestyle variables among adults. The dependent variable of the study was hypertension status, categorized as hypertensive and non-hypertensive individuals. The independent variables selected for the ...
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Review Article
Social Support and Spirituality as Determinants of Quality of Life in Diabetes Mellitus Patients on Hemodialysis:
A Systematic Review
Muhammad Irwan*
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
172-178
Received:
18 May 2026
Accepted:
30 May 2026
Published:
29 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajhr.20261403.15
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Abstract: Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) patients undergoing hemodialysis often experience diminished quality of life (QoL) due to physical, psychological, and social challenges associated with chronic kidney disease. Social support and spirituality have been identified as key psychosocial factors that may influence patients’ well-being and treatment outcomes. Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of social support and spirituality on the quality of life of DM patients undergoing hemodialysis, synthesizing evidence from recent studies conducted across diverse cultural and clinical settings. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Inclusion criteria focused on studies reporting social support, family support, spiritual well-being, and QoL outcomes in hemodialysis patients, specifically those with DM or chronic kidney disease complications. Ten studies meeting eligibility criteria were analyzed, encompassing cross-sectional, descriptive-analytic, and quasi-experimental designs. Results: Across the studies, higher levels of social support, particularly from family and peers, were consistently associated with improved QoL. Spirituality, including religious engagement and personal spiritual well-being, further contributed to resilience, psychological stability, and enhanced coping with chronic treatment regimens. Combined interventions addressing both social support and spirituality demonstrated synergistic effects, leading to measurable improvements in physical, emotional, and social domains of QoL. Evidence from diverse regions, including Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Iraq, indicates the universal relevance of these factors. Conclusion: Social support and spirituality are pivotal determinants of QoL among DM patients undergoing hemodialysis. Integrating structured psychosocial and spiritual interventions into routine hemodialysis care may enhance patient outcomes and promote holistic management. Future research should investigate longitudinal effects and interventional strategies to optimize QoL in this population.
Abstract: Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) patients undergoing hemodialysis often experience diminished quality of life (QoL) due to physical, psychological, and social challenges associated with chronic kidney disease. Social support and spirituality have been identified as key psychosocial factors that may influence patients’ well-being and treatment out...
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