African journal of medicine and medical sciences
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Comparison of low dose and standard dose adrenocorticotropin stimulation tests in healthy Nigerians.
Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction is a potentially life-threatening condition. It is of paramount importance that safe, reliable diagnostic tests be available to identify patients at risk for adrenal insufficiency. The 250 microg Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test is commonly used to assess adrenocortical function. ⋯ There was no statistically significant difference in mean serum cortisol levels between the two test doses at 30 minutes (928.4 vs 929.8 nmol/L). There was a strong correlation between 30-minute cortisol responses to 1 microg and 250 microg ACTH stimulation tests, r = 0.999; p < 0.001. In agreement with other published data, our study confirms that 1 microg ACTH stimulates adrenocortical secretion in normal subjects in the period 30 minutes post injection comparable to 250 microg ACTH testing.
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Dental health workers like other workers have occupation related health problems and hazards which include neck and low back pain. Previous studies have shown that the prevalence and location of pain may be influenced by posture and work habits and as well as demographic factors. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of neck and back problems among dentists and dental auxiliaries in private and government dental hospitals in south western Nigeria. ⋯ For neck pain, the prevalence was highest among therapists followed by technologists, dentists and least among the DSA. More females missed work due to back and neck pain than males. There is therefore the need to address ergonomic issues and change the way dentistry is practiced.
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HIV infection is a major factor in the deteriorating. quality of life particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, the HIV prevalence in Nigeria is 4.4% with wide variation across the states. Though much data exist on the socio-economic aspects of HIV/ AIDS, information on quality of life of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) is still scanty. ⋯ Poor financial status of majority of PLWHA in Ibadan restricted their access to treatment and other care and services. Discrimination towards them by family, friends and the community affected negatively their quality of life. A combination of strategies--health education, psycho--social interventions is needed in addressing the needs of people living with HIV/AIDS.