Student's Journal of Health Research Africa
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Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of helicobacter pylori and associated factors among symptomatic Patients at Butagaya health center iii, Jinja district
No full textBackground: H. pylori infection rates are higher in resource-poor settings and developing countries such as Uganda. Despite the fact that most health facilities in Uganda including government health facilities have put in place a number of measures including diagnostic methods for H. pylori and antibiotics used in treatment and management of H. pylori infection,
Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design that involved 384 individuals at the Outpatient department at Butagaya Health Centre III, who presented with signs and symptoms of H. pylori infection; selected using simple random sampling. H. pylori antigen tests, an interviewer administered structured questionnaire and disc diffusion were used to obtain data,
Results: The study found that 22.4% of respondents were positive H. pylori tests. However, growth was only registered on 9(10.5%) of which, 4(44.4%) were susceptible and 5(55.6%) were resistant. Of the resistant samples, 1(20.0%) was resistant to Clarithromycin, 2(40.0%) to Metronidazole, 1(20.0%) to Levofloxacin and 1(20.0%) to Tetracycline; 2(40.0%) were resistant to only one antibiotic, 2(20.0%) had dual resistance (1(50.0%) to Clarithromycin and Metronidazole, 1(50.0%%) Levofloxacin and Metronidazole) while 1(20.0%%) had multiple resistance to Clarithromycin, levofloxacin and metronidazole. Age, gender, marital status and source of drinking water had a significant association with H. pylori infection (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The prevalence of H. pylori was established at 22.4%. Full susceptibility to antibiotics was established at 44.4%. The highest resistance was to Clarithromycin and dual resistance to Clarithromycin + Metronidazole and Levofloxacin + Metronidazole. Age, marital status, gender and source of drinking water were the only factors found to be significantly associated with H. pylori infection
Recommendations: Individuals should take care to obtain water from safe sources, culture and sensitivity should always be performed for all suspected H. pylori infections and clinical trials should be done to guide the development of new antibiotic
IMPROVING ADHERENCE TO METHADONE TREATMENT AMONG YOUNG ADULTS AGED 20-35 YEARS RECEIVING CARE AT BUTABIKA MEDICALLY ASSISTED TREATMENT CLINIC.
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Adherence to Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT) is a critical determinant in managing opioid use disorders. Despite MMT’s proven efficacy, suboptimal adherence rates, particularly in Uganda, impeded its effectiveness. At Butabika Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) Clinic, only 45% of patients adhered to methadone, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Methodology
A quality improvement project was conducted among 378 patients aged 20–35 at Butabika MAT Clinic. Interventions included group and individual psychosocial therapy, patient-led group sessions, psychoeducation, contingency management (token rewards), and mobile methadone dispensing. The Logical Framework Approach, Root Cause Analysis, PESTELI, SWOT, and 7S models guided the project. Monitoring and evaluation were conducted monthly and quarterly, respectively.
Results
The introduction of peer-led group therapy improved engagement and reduced monotony. Contingency management, such as reward tokens and meal provision, incentivized daily attendance. Mobile van dispensing reduced missed doses by addressing logistical barriers. Humanistic, psychodynamic, and behavioral counseling approaches facilitated psychological recovery and treatment adherence. Leadership strategies, including transformational and task-oriented styles, positively influenced service delivery and patient engagement.
Conclusions
Psychosocial interventions, logistical support through mobile units, and contingency-based motivational strategies significantly enhanced adherence to methadone treatment among young adults. Change management frameworks such as Lewin's and Kotter’s models facilitated the implementation and sustainability of new practices.
Recommendations
MAT programs should integrate individualized psychosocial treatment plans, scale contingency management, and expand mobile dispensing services. Staff training and leadership development are crucial to sustaining adherence improvements.
A QUANTITATIVE STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF E -LEARNING AND MODERN TECHNOLOGY ON TEACHING AND LEARNING IN THE NATURE CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT AT MANGOSUTHU UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY: ENHANCING STUDENT PERFORMANCE IN RURAL COMMUNITIES AND SUPPORTING UNTRAINED LECTURERS.
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The adoption of eLearning and modern technologies is transforming education globally, offering enhanced teaching and learning experiences. However, in specialized fields like Nature Conservation, students from underprivileged rural areas and untrained lecturers face considerable barriers. At South African institutions such as Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), addressing digital access and literacy challenges remains critical.
Methods
This study employed a quantitative research design to evaluate the impact of e-learning and technology integration in the Nature Conservation Department at MUT. A structured survey was conducted with 150 final-year students and 20 lecturers. Data collection focused on access to eLearning tools, digital literacy, lecturer training, and academic performance. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.
Results
Among the students, 85% were aged between 20–25 years, while lecturers had an average of five years of teaching experience. The study found notable disparities between rural and urban students. Seventy percent of rural students reported access challenges, and 65% experienced difficulties in practical applications, while over 70% of urban students demonstrated strong digital literacy and learning outcomes. Lecturer training improved from 30% in year one to 70% in year three, but 30% remained untrained. E-learning was reported to enhance theoretical understanding (30%) and flexibility (25%), though practical challenges (25%) and limited resources (20%) were ongoing issues.
Conclusion
While eLearning enhances theoretical learning and flexibility in Nature Conservation education, disparities in access, digital literacy, and training hinder its full potential, particularly for rural students.
Recommendations
To bridge the digital divide, institutions should prioritize targeted lecturer training, expand infrastructure, and develop context-specific e-learning strategies tailored to under-resourced environments
ASSESSING THE EFFECTS OF ILLEGAL HARVESTING ON FISH BIODIVERSITY IN SOUTH AFRICA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY DESIGN.
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Subsistence fishing is vital for the livelihoods and food security of many coastal and inland communities in South Africa. However, unsustainable harvesting practices threaten both freshwater and marine biodiversity. Despite the existence of formal regulations, weak enforcement and limited community involvement reduce the effectiveness of conservation efforts. This study examines how policy implementation influences subsistence fishing practices and biodiversity outcomes in selected rivers of the Eastern Cape.
Methods
A mixed-methods approach was used, combining ecological field surveys with structured interviews involving 150 subsistence fishers and consultations with 20 extension officers. Quantitative data were analyzed using statistical models to assess the relationship between fishing practices, policy implementation, and biodiversity trends. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically to explore challenges in policy enforcement and community perceptions.
Results
Findings showed that 75% of participants were male, with an average age of 42 years, and 60% relied on fishing as their primary income source. Despite existing regulations, 65% of fishers lacked permits, often citing poverty and bureaucratic barriers. Key species, including abalone, line fish, and various freshwater species, showed declining populations. Major challenges included weak enforcement, a disconnect between permit systems and fishing realities, and minimal community involvement in policymaking.
Conclusion
Illegal and unregulated fishing remains prevalent in Eastern Cape rivers, undermining conservation goals and placing fish biodiversity at risk. Current policy frameworks are ineffective in addressing the complex socioeconomic and ecological realities faced by small-scale fishers.
Recommendation
To improve sustainability, the study recommends stronger enforcement, increased community participation in policy design, and the adoption of adaptive, context-specific management strategies. Collaborative governance involving government agencies, local communities, and NGOs is essential to harmonize conservation objectives with the livelihood needs of subsistence fishers
PREVALENCE OF MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT ORGANISMS IN HOSPITAL-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA AMONG ICU PATIENTS AND ITS CLINICAL OUTCOMES: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY.
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Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) are a growing concern in hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) among ICU patients, contributing to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, resistance profiles, clinical outcomes, and impact of antibiotic therapy on ICU patients with MDRO-related HAP.
Methods
A total of 100 ICU patients diagnosed with HAP were included in the study. The prevalence of MDROs, resistance profiles of the organisms, and clinical outcomes were assessed. Data on mechanical ventilation, ICU stay duration, mortality rates, and antibiotic therapy were collected and analyzed. The study also examined co-infections and complications in patients with MDRO infections.
Results
100 ICU patients were included, with a mean age of 58.4 ± 12.3 years; 60% were male and 40% were female. The majority of patients had comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus (45%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (33%), and hypertension (30%). The most common MDROs identified were Klebsiella pneumoniae (24%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (21%), and Acinetobacter baumannii (19%). These organisms exhibited high resistance to third-generation cephalosporins, carbapenems, and fluoroquinolones. Patients with MDRO infections had significantly higher rates of mechanical ventilation (69% vs. 28%), prolonged ICU stays (62% vs. 14%), and a higher mortality rate (35% vs. 12%) compared to non-MDRO patients. Appropriate antibiotic therapy improved clinical outcomes, with a 40% improvement rate in the proper therapy group. Co-infections, including Candida albicans (12%) and Staphylococcus aureus (10%), were common in MDRO-infected patients.
Conclusion
MDROs significantly impact the clinical outcomes of ICU patients with HAP, leading to increased mechanical ventilation, longer ICU stays, and higher mortality. Appropriate antibiotic therapy plays a critical role in improving patient outcomes.
Recommendations
Early MDRO detection in ICU-HAP patients requires surveillance, rapid diagnostics, strict infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship to prevent resistance
FUNCTIONAL AND RADIOLOGICAL OUTCOMES OF UNCEMENTED TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTER.
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Uncemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) is increasingly preferred in younger patients due to its potential for long-term biological fixation and reduced cement-related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the functional and radiological outcomes of uncemented THA performed for various hip pathologies at a tertiary care center.
Materials and Methods
This prospective observational cohort study was conducted at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital, Warangal, and included 30 patients aged 20–60 years who underwent uncemented THA between September 2022 and August 2024. The mean age was 43.6 ± 9.2 years, with 56.6% males and 43.3% females. Clinical indications included chronic arthritis (53.3%), avascular necrosis (23.3%), femoral neck fractures with or without implant failure (19.9%), and developmental dysplasia of the hip (3.3%). Functional outcomes were assessed using the Modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS), and radiological outcomes focused on implant positioning and osteointegration.
Results
The mean MHHS improved significantly from a preoperative score of 46.2 ± 5.8 to a postoperative score of 85.6 ± 7.4 (p < 0.001), indicating substantial functional recovery. At final follow-up, 10% of patients had excellent functional outcomes (MHHS 90–100), 63.3% had good outcomes (80–89), 20% had fair outcomes (70–79), and 6.3% had poor outcomes (<70). Radiologically, 76.6% showed neutral femoral stem alignment, and 83.3% had optimally placed acetabular cups. Complication rates were low and manageable.
Conclusion
Uncemented THA provides significant functional improvement and satisfactory radiological outcomes with minimal complications. Proper patient selection, surgical technique, and structured rehabilitation are critical for optimal results.
Recommendations
Uncemented THA should include careful patient selection, accurate implant placement, and long-term follow-up to ensure functional success and stability
Dheerghayushmanbava – A survey on the perceptions of doctors towards physiology of aging and self-care strategies for healthy aging and longevity.
Get PDFBackgroundThe global rise in aging populations underscores the need to understand healthcare professionals’ perspectives on the physiology of aging and strategies to promote healthy longevity. Physicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and personal practices significantly influence public health promotion and geriatric care delivery. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of doctors regarding aging physiology and self-care interventions for healthy aging and extended lifespan.
MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 medical professionals from various specialties across India using a pre-validated structured questionnaire. The tool assessed demographics, perceptions on aging biology, importance attributed to self-care strategies, personal adoption of healthy aging behaviors, awareness of longevity-enhancing interventions, and perceived barriers to promoting healthy aging. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings.
ResultsThe majority (41.0%) of respondents were aged 36–45 years, with 55.0% males and 45.0% females. Most doctors (91.5%) agreed that aging is a natural biological process, and 77.0% identified hormonal decline as a key contributor. Balanced diet (94.0%), physical activity (92.5%), and smoking/alcohol avoidance (90.5%) were rated as essential for longevity. However, only 55.0% underwent annual health check-ups and 49.0% used dietary supplements. While 65.0% were aware of caloric restriction, only 28.5% practiced it. Common barriers included lack of patient compliance (42.0%) and inadequate public awareness (36.5%).
ConclusionDoctors largely recognize aging as a natural and modifiable process and acknowledge the value of lifestyle-based longevity strategies. However, there is a noticeable gap between their perceived importance and actual implementation of such practices in personal and clinical contexts.
RecommendationsTargeted training in geroscience, physician wellness programs, and public education campaigns are recommended to bridge the knowledge-practice gap and enhance the role of doctors in promoting healthy aging
Examining the Association Between Internal Control Systems and Financial Performance of SACCOs in South Western Uganda
No full textThis study investigated the association between internal control systems and the financial performance of SACCOs in South Western Uganda, addressing concerns about low financial performance, as seen in profitability, liquidity, and leverage ratios reported by the Association of Microfinance Institutions of Uganda (AMFIU) Annual reports, 2022/2023. Using a cross-sectional design with quantitative methods, the study focused on 36 SACCOs licensed by the Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority (UMRA, 2023), selecting a sample of 252 respondents (7 per SACCO, including top management and board members). Data was collected through questionnaires and document review, and analyzed with SPSS v26.00. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship (r=0.615**, p<0.01) between internal control systems and financial performance, indicating that enhanced internal controls lead to better financial results. Based on these results, the study recommends that SACCOs focus on improving their internal control systems by strengthening risk management, enhancing monitoring mechanisms, and fostering a culture of accountability through regular training and clear policies to ensure long-term financial stability
Levosulpiride-induced extrapyramidal symptoms: A 15-case series from a tertiary care centre.
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Levosulpiride, a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist commonly used in India for gastrointestinal disorders, has been increasingly associated with extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), especially with prolonged use and in fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Despite its widespread use, awareness of its neurological adverse effects remains limited.
Objective
To present a case series highlighting the clinical profile, management, and outcomes of patients who developed extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) following levosulpiride use, with an emphasis on the importance of early detection and rational prescribing practices.
Methods
A prospective observational case series was conducted at the ADR Monitoring Centre of Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur, Odisha. Fifteen patients presenting with neurological symptoms following levosulpiride administration were systematically evaluated. Detailed clinical histories, imaging, and laboratory investigations were performed to rule out alternative causes. Causality was assessed using the WHO-UMC scale, and all cases were reported to PvPI. Levosulpiride was withdrawn in all cases, and treatment was tailored to symptom type.
Results
Among 15 patients (8 females, 7 males; aged 18–66 years), drug-induced Parkinsonism was most common (10 cases), followed by acute dystonia (2), tardive dyskinesia (2), and akathisia (1). The onset ranged from 9 to 164 days post-levosulpiride initiation. Most patients improved post-withdrawal. Fixed-dose combinations were implicated in prolonged exposure.
Conclusion
Levosulpiride, even at therapeutic doses, can cause significant and sometimes persistent extrapyramidal symptoms. This case series underscores the importance of restricting its use to short durations, monitoring for neurological symptoms, and educating both prescribers and patients. Regulatory action against inappropriate FDCs and improved pharmacovigilance reporting are warranted to ensure safer therapeutic outcomes.
Recommendations
Use levosulpiride short-term with regular neurological checks. Educate patients and caregivers to recognize early symptoms. Avoid high-risk groups. Prefer safer alternatives. Stop immediately if EPS occurs. Report to pharmacovigilance. Avoid unnecessary fixed-dose combinations
A CASE-CONTROL STUDY OF CHOROIDAL THICKNESS IN PATIENTS WITH CENTRAL SEROUS CHORIORETINOPATHY: A STUDY AT RIMS, RANCHI, JHARKHAND
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Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is a retinal disorder characterized by the accumulation of subretinal fluid, often linked to retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) dysfunction and choroidal hyperpermeability. Choroidal thickness, a key parameter in understanding the pathophysiology of CSCR, has been implicated in disease onset and progression. Despite extensive research, regional variations in CSCR and choroidal thickness remain underexplored, especially in Indian populations.
Objectives: This study analyzed and compared choroidal thickness in patients with CSCR and healthy controls. It also sought to investigate the relationship between choroidal thickness and disease severity.
Methods
A 12-month case-control study was conducted at RIMS Ranchi from January 2024 to December 2024, Jharkhand. The study included 50 patients diagnosed with CSCR and 50 age—and sex-matched healthy controls. Choroidal thickness was measured using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) in the subfoveal region and 500 μm nasal and temporal to the fovea. Descriptive statistics were used for baseline data, while t-tests and correlation analyses assessed differences and relationships between choroidal thickness and clinical parameters.
Results
CSCR patients exhibited significantly greater mean subfoveal choroidal thickness than controls (p < 0.001). Similar differences were observed in the nasal and temporal regions. A positive correlation was noted between disease duration and choroidal thickness (r = 0.46, p = 0.001), while an inverse relationship was found between choroidal thickness and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (r = -0.39, p = 0.005). These findings reinforce the role of choroidal thickening in CSCR pathophysiology and its association with disease progression.
Conclusion
This study highlights the clinical relevance of choroidal thickness as a diagnostic and prognostic marker in CSCR. The findings emphasize the importance of early detection and monitoring choroidal changes to improve management and outcomes.
Recommendation
Further longitudinal and multicenter studies are recommended to validate these observations and explore therapeutic implications