Research Article
Economic and Social Determinants of Micronutrient Consumption and Supplementation Among Children Under Five Years in Cameroon
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 4, August 2024
Pages:
81-93
Received:
30 May 2024
Accepted:
8 July 2024
Published:
23 July 2024
Abstract: Malnutrition among children less than five years is an important public health challenge in resources limited countries. This study analyzes the economic and social determinants of micronutrient consumption and supplementation among Cameroonian’s children under five years. A cross-sectional study design was undertaken using a stratified nationwide, two-level sampling with a sample of 4,074 children under five years and their mothers. Data were analyzed using a logistic regression model with the level of statistical significance set at p<0.05. The slightly majority of children were male (50.8%). Children in age groups older than 23 months were less likely (OR<1; p<0.01) to be consuming and/or supplemented with micronutrients compared to children aged 6 to 23 months. Children of mothers of middle and high income quintiles were more likely to be consuming and/or supplemented with micronutrients compared to children of mothers of low and very low income quintiles, while those in the very high income quintiles were less likely (OR=0.994 p>0.05). Children of mothers with low (primary) and average (secondary) education were likely (OR=0.854 and 0.870 respectively), while children of mothers with high (tertiary) education were non-significantly more likely (OR=1.093; p>0.05) to be consuming and/or supplemented with micronutrients compared to children of non-educated mothers. Overall, these study’s findings showed that the gender of the child, the child's birth order, the children from married mothers, the education’s level of mothers, standard of living, the non-use of any contraceptive method by mothers with intention to use one, employment, religion, and the children from mothers in the low, middle and high income quintiles were significant determinants associated with the function of micronutriments’ consumption and/or supplementation in children under five in Cameroon. Policy makers should therefore strive to improve the socio-economic conditions of women while raising their awareness of the harmful effects of child malnutrition.
Abstract: Malnutrition among children less than five years is an important public health challenge in resources limited countries. This study analyzes the economic and social determinants of micronutrient consumption and supplementation among Cameroonian’s children under five years. A cross-sectional study design was undertaken using a stratified nationwide,...
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Research Article
Prevalence of Meconium Stained Amniotic Fluid and Predictors for Poor Fetal Outcomes Among Women Delivering at Bugando Medical Centre Mwanza Tanzania
Simon Malihu Kamuli*,
Innocent Lutakyamilwa Kaiza,
Albert Kihunrwa,
Elieza Chibwe,
Ndakibae Gabriel Mabega
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 4, August 2024
Pages:
94-102
Received:
1 July 2024
Accepted:
23 July 2024
Published:
15 August 2024
Abstract: Background: Meconium stained amniotic fluid occurs in up to 20% of all deliveries and is reported to vary in different settings across the world. Babies delivered by these women are at high risk of low score and meconium aspiration syndrome. Limited studies have reported on the predictors for poor fetal outcomes in women presenting with meconium stained amniotic fluid. Methods: This was a cross sectional study involving 209 pregnant women with meconium stained amniotic fluid. Semi structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using STATA version 12. Results: A total of 1202 women delivered during the study period from December 2017 to February 2018. Amongst, 209 (17.4%) women had meconium stained amniotic fluid. Of the 209 babies, 35 (16.7%) had low score, 41 (19.6%) were admitted due to meconium aspiration syndrome and 3 (1.4%) died due to meconium aspiration syndrome related complications. Predictors for poor fetal outcomes were found to be Thick meconium (Grade III), Meconium as a new event during labor monitoring and null parity. Conclusion: The prevalence of meconium stained amniotic fluid at Bugando Medical Centre was found to be 17.4%. Thick meconium, development of meconium as a new event and nullparous were found to predict for poor fetal outcomes. Immediate interventions are recommended for those with the identified predictors for poor fetal outcome.
Abstract: Background: Meconium stained amniotic fluid occurs in up to 20% of all deliveries and is reported to vary in different settings across the world. Babies delivered by these women are at high risk of low score and meconium aspiration syndrome. Limited studies have reported on the predictors for poor fetal outcomes in women presenting with meconium st...
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Review Article
Invasive Fungal Disease Associated with COVID-19 Infection
Negeri Debela*
,
Solome Nekahiwot
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 4, August 2024
Pages:
103-110
Received:
28 June 2024
Accepted:
16 July 2024
Published:
27 August 2024
Abstract: While COVID-19 primarily attacks the lungs, its reach can extend to various organs. Patients battling severe cases, especially those in intensive care, face a heightened risk of secondary infections caused by fungi, bacteria, and even other viruses. This vulnerability stems from a weakened immune system due to the initial infection, extended hospital stays, and the use of medications that suppress the immune response. Fungal infections pose a significant threat, with aspergillosis, candidiasis, mucormycosis, Cryptococcus, pneumocystis, and even regional fungal strains being identified in COVID-19 patients. Weakened immunity and underlying lung issues make these patients particularly susceptible to aspergillosis. Prolonged hospitalization, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and a compromised immune system increase the risk of Candida infections. Additionally, diabetics receiving corticosteroids are more likely to develop mucormycosis. Diagnosing fungal infections in COVID-19 patients is challenging because symptoms often mimic those of the initial COVID-19 infection. However, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Doctors often rely on a combination of tests, including traditional microbiology, advanced molecular techniques, and tissue examination (histopathology). Improved monitoring of fungal infections, optimized treatment protocols, and the development of new antifungal therapies are all critical weapons in the fight against this global pandemic.
Abstract: While COVID-19 primarily attacks the lungs, its reach can extend to various organs. Patients battling severe cases, especially those in intensive care, face a heightened risk of secondary infections caused by fungi, bacteria, and even other viruses. This vulnerability stems from a weakened immune system due to the initial infection, extended hospit...
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