African health sciences
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African health sciences · Dec 2022
The association between different blood group systems and susceptibility to COVID-19: a single center cross-sectional study from Saudi Arabia.
Since the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic, many associated factors have been investigated to clarify the susceptibility and severity among the affected individuals. Biological markers can play an important role in identification of individual susceptibility to such pandemic. Growing evidence suggest the influence of different blood group systems on susceptibility to COVID-19 virus, with a particular blood type conferring selection advantage. ⋯ Although our study showed no significant association between ABO and D, and susceptibility to COVID-19, there was a significant association between P1+ve and COVID-19. P1+ve participants were 2.131 times more associated with the risk of COVID-19 infection than those with Anti P1-ve. Thus, P1 antigen can be used as a biological marker for identification of individuals susceptibility to COVID-19. It is strongly advised that such individuals should consider extra protective measures. Further studies on other contributing factors should also be considered for more scientific clarity.
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African health sciences · Dec 2022
Disruptive behaviours involving radiographers that impede a safe work environment. Survey at central hospitals in Harare Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe.
Understanding disruptive behaviours from the perspective of radiographers is important, as this professional group uses hazardous radiation in the execution of their duties, making patient safety of utmost concern. ⋯ More than 8 out of 10 radiographers in this study were exposed to disruptive behaviours, mostly from the patients and patient's family or escorts. A framework to increases awareness and address these behaviours is recommended.
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African health sciences · Dec 2022
The association between headache presentation, normal examination and neuroimaging findings: a retrospective analysis of patients presenting to a tertiary referral centre.
There is a high worldwide burden of headaches. Selection of patients with headaches for neuroimaging, in the absence of traditional red flags, is imperative in guiding further management. ⋯ Decision to neuroimage should be determined on an individual basis (demographic factors, history of headache and examination) as normal examination cannot preclude patients from unexpected findings on neuroimaging. Headache with nausea and vomiting in isolation may be associated with normal neuroimaging reflecting primary type headaches. Findings support a lower threshold to neuroimage men and HIV seropositive patients with headaches despite normal clinical examination.
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African health sciences · Dec 2022
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Mediterranean region over 18 months: bridging the health outcomes and sustainable development goals.
The COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe, including across the Mediterranean basin. This region presents diversity in economy, culture, and societal affairs. We attempted to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on the population and on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), our aim being to aid in the development of COVID-19 national plans. ⋯ At prima face, high-income countries seem to have sustained worse morbidity and mortality outcomes, despite having had better UHC and a greater health workforce in the pre-COVID-19 era however, one must also consider that factors such as health-seeking behaviour and underdiagnosis may have influenced this. Cross-border infectivity was, however, evident. Pan-Mediterranean action must therefore be taken to ensure COVID-19 transmissibility and mortality are reduced across borders, while ensuring an equitable health outcome across populations.
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African health sciences · Dec 2022
Factors influencing quality of life among cancer survivors in Kenya.
The number of cancer survivors is growing continuously due to advances in treatment of cancer patients. In developed countries, numerous studies on quality of life (QoL) of cancer survivors have been conducted. Little is known regarding the QoL of cancer survivors in Kenya. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the factors that contribute to QoL of cancer survivors in Kenya. ⋯ The findings highlight the importance of key factors associated to QoL in cancer survivors in Kenya. Interventions aimed at early cancer detection, treatment, and spiritual support among cancer survivors will improve QoL.