African health sciences
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African health sciences · Sep 2021
Predictors for tuberculosis co-infection in people living with HIV/AIDs.
Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the most common chronic infectious conditions causing mortality and severe outcomes, particularly in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of TB among PLWHA. ⋯ There are still clinical challenges to predict TB diagnosis. However, CD4+ lymphocyte count and viral load may be considered as valuable predictors for TB development. Also, community strategies to reduce harmful effect of alcohol use should be developed.
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African health sciences · Sep 2021
Ingestion of supplements and fortified food with iodine on the breast milk iodine concentration in deficiency areas: a systematic review.
The level of iodine in breast milk may be inadequate and compromise the health of this, both due to excess and lack, some population groups remain deficient because of the low consumption of iodate salt, because there is an increase in consumption of other sources of iodine, such as supplements and fortified foods. ⋯ Iodine ingestion through supplements or fortified foods results in improved iodine levels in breast milk.
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African health sciences · Sep 2021
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of HIV-positive mothers regarding the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding at a regional hospital in the north east of Namibia.
In sub-Saharan Africa, over 1,000 newborns are infected with HIV every day, despite available medical interventions. Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) remains one of the primary sources of HIV infection in children and without interventions 40% of babies born from HIV-positive mothers would be infected with the virus. It is estimated that 300 000 children become infected with HIV worldwide, whilst 1.5 million children die when their mothers opt for other choices instead of breastfeeding. ⋯ HIV positive mothers had good knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. A significant number of mothers were, however, not sure about breastfeeding exclusively for 6 months as they would stop if offered free formula milk for the baby. Support by the fathers and others in the community is vital.
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African health sciences · Sep 2021
Prevalence of pre-diabetes and risk factors among secondary school adolescents in Osogbo Local Government Area, Osun State, Nigeria.
Pre-diabetes is an emerging public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. ⋯ These findings affirmed that prediabetes is becoming common problem among Nigerian adolescents. There is therefore need for stakeholders to face this challenge before it becomes endemic.
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African health sciences · Sep 2021
The use of low-cost ruggedized Android tablets to augment in-service training of community health workers in Mukono, Uganda: perspectives and lessons learned from the field.
Despite potential for community health workers (CHWs) to effectively reduce morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, they still face multiple barriers including access to on-going and refresher training. Digital technology offers a potential solution to improve the provision of ongoing training for CHWs. ⋯ The strength of the program stemmed from a grassroots approach that prioritized stakeholder input at all stages. Leadership at a local level, a history of local engagement and trust built up over a period time were also integral. As organizations aim to scale up digitally enhanced training initiatives, it is paramount that attention is paid to these human factors which are key for program success.