Student's Journal of Health Research Africa
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A prospective observational study on management approaches for non-healing ulcers in dermatology: From conventional to advanced modalities.
Get PDFBackground:
Non-healing ulcers are a major dermatological challenge, leading to prolonged morbidity, infection, and impaired quality of life. Conventional care often fails to achieve complete healing, prompting the need for advanced modalities such as Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT), Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), growth factors, and skin substitutes.
Methods:
A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from February 2024 to February 2025, enrolling 105 patients with ulcers persisting beyond six weeks. Participants were randomized into three groups (n=35 each): (i) Conventional care (saline dressings, antibiotics, compression/off-loading), (ii) Advanced A (NPWT with topical growth factor), and (iii) Advanced B (PRF with bioengineered skin substitute). Baseline evaluation included demographics, comorbidities, ulcer type, size, and duration. Patients were followed weekly for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the percentage reduction in ulcer area; secondary outcomes included time to granulation, complete healing rate, and infection control. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26.0 with ANOVA and Chi-square tests, considering p<0.05 as significant.
Results:
Baseline characteristics were comparable across groups (p>0.05). At 12 weeks, mean ulcer area reduction was 40% in the Conventional group, 80% in Advanced A, and 78% in Advanced B (p<0.001). Mean time to granulation was significantly shorter with advanced modalities (12.5 ± 4.8 days in Advanced A; 13.1 ± 5.2 days in Advanced B) versus Conventional care (24.2 ± 6.1 days). Complete healing occurred in 75%, 90%, and 87.5% of patients, respectively.
Conclusion:
Advanced wound therapies, particularly NPWT with growth factors and PRF with skin substitutes, markedly accelerate granulation, enhance ulcer area reduction, and improve healing outcomes compared to conventional care.
Recommendations:
Incorporation of advanced modalities into standard dermatological wound management is advised, with future multicentric trials warranted to evaluate cost-effectiveness and establish standardized treatment protocols
The influence of cultural beliefs and practices on latrine access and utilization in Awerial County, South Sudan. A cross-sectional study.
Get PDFBackground.
Lack of latrines remains a widespread health and environmental hazard in many developing countries. The study aims to assess the influence of cultural beliefs and practices on latrine utilization in Awerial County, South Sudan.
Methodology.
A Descriptive Analytical study design was utilized for the study. Awerial County was purposively selected based on its low latrine coverage within the state. Systematic random sampling of households was conducted. Quantitative data were collected from 384 community members who were interviewed using a structured household questionnaire. Qualitative data were collected through Focused Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews. Findings are presented as numerical summaries, tables, and charts.
Results.
Majority of household heads are female 76.3% (293), 66.1% (254), reported that they do not have a latrine in their homes, a significant portion of respondent’s lack knowledge (mean 2.02, 29.7%) and resources (49.2%) for latrine usage, cultural beliefs (10.9%) was, perceived as influential, Cultural practices hindering latrine use are rare (0.5%), and responsibilities for latrine maintenance are shared among children, women, men, and others. Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.396 suggests a moderate negative correlation, meaning that as the lack of resources and knowledge about latrine construction increases, the probability of having a latrine decreases. The p-value (Sig. = 0.000) confirms that this result is statistically significant, meaning the observed relationship is unlikely to be due to chance.
Conclusion
The findings from Awerial County underscore the critical interplay between cultural beliefs, gender dynamics, environmental challenges, and the effectiveness of sanitation interventions to address factors like the lack of availability of resources and knowledge for latrine construction.
Recommendation
The study suggests creating campaigns to dispel myths and misconceptions, and providing resources and knowledge for latrine construction as one of the most important approaches to improve sanitation
IMPROVING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS AMONG ADULT FEMALES IN MBINGO BAPTIST HOSPITAL COMMUNITY.
Get PDFBackground
Breast cancer awareness strategies have been proven to reduce breast cancer-related deaths in many countries worldwide. This project is ongoing, creating behavior change attitudes in most women in the community by empowering them to take responsibility for their breast health.
Methodology
This project used a logical framework with stakeholders and community involvement. Support groups and survivors to tell their stories, which acts as a boost to the project’s success. Choosing a change agent model with the help of Kotter’s change model facilitated in management of change in this process. The M & E structure has enabled the project sustainability with community training and retraining activities to “cause the change to stick”. Creating a conducive environment through good leadership, communication, and the motivation of team members further propelled the project from step to step.
Results
Learning lessons of tolerance, team building, resource management, and managing change cannot be overemphasized. This project opened avenues for further research. Granted more finances, many adult females accessing this community shall be reached, thereby promoting health through behavior change.
Conclusion
BC awareness continues to be the best strategy to fight and ensure early breast cancer diagnosis and treatment at MBH, Cameroon, Africa, and the world. This strategy has been proven to strengthen health systems and build communities through health promotion.
Recommendation
BCA campaigns should be implemented as part of a health promotion strategy aimed at enlightening communities about the dangers of late BC diagnosi
THE PREVALENCE OF CRYPTOCOCCAL MENINGITIS IN HIV POSITIVE PATIENTS THAT ARE ON ANTIRETROVIRAL TREATMENT. A RETROSPECTIVE QUANTITATIVE STUDY PERFORMED AT DURBAN ADDINGTON HOSPITAL IN KZN, SOUTH AFRICA.
Get PDFIntroduction
HIV remains a global health challenge, with approximately 37.7 million people living with HIV in South Africa by 2020 (WHO). Among HIV-positive individuals, Cryptococcal meningitis (CM), a severe opportunistic infection, is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), CM continues to be a major concern, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where HIV prevalence is high.
Aims and Objectives
This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CM in HIV-positive patients on ART at Durban Addington Hospital between January and July 2022. The findings are intended to inform health practitioners on prevention strategies and treatment needs for this group.
Methodology
A retrospective quantitative approach was employed, analyzing medical and laboratory data from 137 HIV-positive patients. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were tested for Cryptococcus neoformans, and the results were correlated with CD4 count and viral load data. This approach facilitated a statistical exploration of CM prevalence in HIV patients on ART.
Results
The study found that the majority of the participants were aged between 18 and 39 years. 17 patients (12.4%) tested positive for Cryptococcal antigen, indicating active CM infection. A significant portion of the cohort had low CD4 counts, putting them at higher risk for opportunistic infections. Additionally, 105 (76.6%) patients exhibited inadequate viral suppression, suggesting issues with ART adherence or treatment failure.
Conclusion
The study found a low prevalence of CM in HIV-positive patients on ART at Durban Addington Hospital. However, the high rate of advanced immunosuppression (low CD4 counts and high viral loads) highlights challenges in managing these patients and the need for improved diagnostic and monitoring practices.
Recommendations
Further longitudinal studies on adherence interventions, ART optimization, and integrated HIV care for opportunistic infections are recommended
Anatomical variations of renal arteries in adult cadavers in Andhra Pradesh: A multicentric cross-sectional cadaveric study.
Get PDFBackgroundAnatomical variations in renal artery morphology hold crucial significance in surgical, urological, and radiological procedures. Comprehensive knowledge of these variations enhances the success of renal transplantation, angiography, and retroperitoneal surgeries.
Objectives
To investigate and document the prevalence and patterns of anatomical variations in renal arteries, including origin, number, branching patterns, and morphometry, in adult cadavers across multiple centers.
Methods
This multicentric observational study was conducted on 60 adult cadavers during routine anatomical dissection in medical institutions. Detailed dissection of the abdominal region was performed to trace the renal arteries from their origin at the abdominal aorta to their termination at the renal hilum. Parameters such as the number, origin (related to the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries), branching pattern, presence of accessory and polar arteries, and arterial dimensions were recorded.
Results
Renal artery variations were observed in 16 cadavers (26.7%). Bilateral variations were seen in 6 cadavers and unilateral variations in 10, predominantly on the right side (n=8). Accessory renal arteries were present in 13 cadavers. Early division of renal arteries occurred in 3 cases, all within 1 cm of the superior mesenteric artery. Pre-segmental and pre-hilar branching patterns were observed in 3 and 11 arteries, respectively. Polar arteries were found in 8 cases. The length and breadth of renal arteries ranged from 1.0–9.0 cm and 0.2–0.9 cm, respectively.
Conclusion
This study revealed a 26.7% prevalence of renal artery anatomical variations, with a predominance of unilateral right-sided anomalies. Understanding these variations is essential for minimizing intraoperative complications and optimizing outcomes in renal surgical and interventional procedures.
Recommendations
Preoperative imaging to identify renal artery variations is essential for planning renal surgeries, transplantations, and interventions, minimizing intraoperative risks, and improving surgical outcomes and vascular access success rates
CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF FACTORS PREDICTING CONVERSION FROM LAPAROSCOPIC TO OPEN CHOLECYSTECTOMY.
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Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become the gold standard procedure for the surgical management of gallstone disease due to its minimally invasive nature and faster recovery. However, conversion to open cholecystectomy (OC) is occasionally required in technically difficult cases, “potentially leading to increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and higher healthcare costs. Identifying the factors associated with such conversions is essential for optimizing surgical outcomes and patient safety.
Objective
This study aims to determine the demographic, clinical, sonographic, and intraoperative factors that predict conversion from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy in patients undergoing elective surgery for gallbladder disease.
Methods
The General Surgery Department of Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi, undertook this cross-sectional observational study. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 100 elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients were included. Age, sex, BMI, clinical history, ultrasonographic findings, and intraoperative observations were gathered using a structured proforma. Conversion to open cholecystectomy was the main result. Statistical analysis used chi-square, t-tests, and multivariate logistic regression with a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results
Total conversion was 18%. In particular, 30% of patients over 50, 40.9% of those with BMI >30, and 27.8% of those with acute cholecystitis converted. Sonography showed conversion in 36.7% with gallbladder wall thickness >3 mm and 38.9% with pericholecystic fluid. Distorted Calot's triangle converted 50% and dense adhesions 42.9% intraoperatively. Significant predictors include age >50 (p=0.01), BMI >30 (p=0.002), acute cholecystitis history (p=0.006), gallbladder wall thickness >3 mm (p=0.001), and extensive intraoperative adhesions (p<0.001). These findings indicate that preoperative and intraoperative factors greatly influence conversion.
Conclusion
Identification of high-risk patients through thorough preoperative evaluation can facilitate surgical planning and improve outcomes. Incorporating predictive models into routine clinical practice may help reduce unnecessary conversions and associated complications
A CROSS-SECTIONAL EVALUATION OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN RIPARIAN VEGETATION ALONG THE UMNGENI, UTHUKELA, UMVOTI, UMDLOTI, AND UMFOLOZI RIVERS, KWAZULU-NATAL.
Get PDFBackground
Riparian vegetation is critical for maintaining riverine ecosystem health by filtering pollutants, stabilizing banks, and supporting biodiversity. However, increasing anthropogenic pressures, such as industrial effluent, agricultural runoff, and urban stormwater, threaten these zones. Heavy metals like lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) can accumulate in riparian plants, posing ecological and health risks through food chain transfer. This study assessed heavy metal contamination in riparian vegetation along five major rivers in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Methods
A cross-sectional field study was conducted in 2024 along the uMngeni, uThukela, Umvoti, Umdloti, and Umfolozi Rivers. Three sampling sites per river (upstream, midstream, downstream) were selected based on surrounding land use and pollution sources. Dominant riparian plants, Phragmites australis, Cyperus spp., and Typha capensis, were sampled. Leaf and stem tissues were dried, ground, and digested using nitric-perchloric acid, and heavy metals were quantified via Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Results were compared against international phytotoxicity thresholds and analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA.
Results
Heavy metal concentrations varied by site and species. The uMngeni and Umvoti Rivers showed elevated Pb and Cd levels downstream of industrial zones. In contrast, the Umfolozi and Umdloti Rivers had lower concentrations within ecological safety limits. Phragmites australis exhibited higher Zn and Cu uptake, indicating phytoremediation potential. Some downstream samples exceeded phytotoxic thresholds for Pb and Cd, raising ecological and health concerns.
Conclusion
Riparian vegetation across KwaZulu-Natal’s rivers is accumulating heavy metals, especially near industrial and urban areas. These findings validate the role of riparian plants as bioindicators and highlight species- and site-specific risks.
Recommendation
Regular biomonitoring and targeted phytoremediation using high-uptake species are recommended. Efforts must also focus on pollution control and improved land-use practices to safeguard riverine ecosystems and public health
STRATEGIES TO PREVENT GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AT UNIVERSITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW.
Get PDFGender-based violence (GBV) continues to be a significant public health issue affecting millions worldwide. It is pervasive and deeply embedded within societies. Despite numerous efforts by governments and various organizations to combat it, GBV has become almost a routine occurrence at South African universities. This paper explored strategies that may be adopted to reduce GBV at South African universities. This is a conceptual paper, and it relies solely on secondary data for analysis and interpretation. The authors employed a purposive sampling strategy to gather data from a variety of databases that were particularly relevant to the subject matter. Secondary data from EbscoHost, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, Jstor, Sabinet, and Proquest were sampled and reviewed using keywords and phrases related to GBV. This review highlights how universities can foster a safer, more inclusive environment where GBV is not tolerated and victims are supported and empowered through continuous training, awareness campaigns, peer support systems, clear policies, and effective response and reporting mechanisms. Preventing GBV at universities requires a collective effort from academic staff, support staff, students, and partners. Therefore, ongoing collaboration, sustained efforts, and a commitment to change are essential for making a significant difference in the prevention of GBV. To support GBV prevention efforts in universities, research should be conducted to investigate how well-coordinated strategies involving the university community contribute to creating safer campus environments. Further research should be conducted to assess the influence of digital awareness campaigns and peer-led programs on shifting student perceptions and behaviors related to GBV. University GBV policies should formally recognize and support peer-led education programs and survivor advocacy groups. These policies must also incorporate intersectional, inclusive approaches that address the unique requirements of marginalized populations, such as students with disabilities, international students, and the LGBTQ+ community
Bridging the literacy gap: A cross-sectional study evaluating the impact of the Funda Nathi literacy project on primary school learners.
Get PDFBackgroundLiteracy is a foundational skill essential for academic success and socio-economic mobility. Yet many learners in underserved communities continue to struggle with basic reading and writing due to limited resources, inconsistent instructional support, and socio-economic constraints. Despite national literacy interventions, reading proficiency remains low in early grades. The FundaNathi Literacy Project was established to strengthen literacy development among Grade 2–7 learners through structured reading programs, interactive activities, and community engagement.
MethodsA cross-sectional quantitative research design was employed. Quantitative data were collected from 180 learners (intervention group = 120; comparison group = 60) using pre- and post-intervention literacy assessments measuring reading fluency (words per minute), comprehension scores, and writing accuracy. Qualitative data were obtained through classroom observations and semi-structured interviews with 12 educators, 20 learners, and 15 parents. Descriptive statistics summarised quantitative findings, while qualitative data were analysed thematically.
ResultsParticipants had a mean age of 10.4 years (SD = 1.8), with 55% female and 45% male. At baseline, average reading fluency among intervention learners was 42 wpm; post-intervention scores increased to 68 wpm (a 62% improvement). Comprehension scores rose from a mean of 38% to 64%, while writing accuracy improved by 41%. Compared with the non-participating group, intervention learners showed significantly greater gains across all literacy domains. Educators reported improved learner confidence and engagement. Parental involvement strengthened reading habits at home, although inconsistent support, limited materials, and funding constraints hindered project scalability.
ConclusionThe Funda Nathi Literacy Project significantly improves foundational literacy skills among learners in low-resource settings, especially when supported by educators and caregivers.
RecommendationsStrengthen school, community partnerships, secure sustainable funding, and integrate digital learning tools to enhance program reach and long-term impact
Assessment of foreign body sensation and patient satisfaction after inguinal hernia repair: A prospective randomized comparative study.
Get PDFBackgroundLichtenstein tension-free mesh repair is the standard approach for inguinal hernia. However, patient-centered outcomes such as postoperative pain and foreign body sensation (FBS) influence long-term satisfaction. Lightweight meshes have been developed to reduce stiffness and mesh awareness. This study compared lightweight and heavyweight polypropylene meshes regarding FBS and inferred patient satisfaction.
MethodsThis prospective randomized comparative study was conducted at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital (AVBRH), a 1200-bed tertiary-care teaching hospital in Wardha, India, from September 2016 to September 2018. One hundred adult male patients with unilateral, uncomplicated inguinal hernia undergoing elective Lichtenstein repair were randomized equally into heavyweight mesh (Group I) and lightweight mesh (Group II). Pain (VAS), FBS, complications, and hospital stay were recorded over 12 months. Patient satisfaction was inferred based on recovery outcomes.
ResultsEarly postoperative pain was lower in the lightweight group (mean VAS 1.98 ± 0.86 vs 2.64 ± 1.15; p<0.05). FBS was significantly higher in the heavyweight group at 1 month (24% vs 12%; χ²=4.87, p=0.027), 3 months (24% vs 8%; χ²=9.52, p=0.002), and 6 months (12% vs 4%; χ²=4.34, p=0.037). No FBS was reported in either group at 12 months. Mean hospital stay was shorter with lightweight mesh (4.78 ± 1.52 vs 6.70 ± 2.71 days). No recurrence occurred.
ConclusionLightweight polypropylene mesh significantly reduces early postoperative pain, foreign body sensation, and hospital stay without compromising recurrence rates.
RecommendationLightweight mesh should be preferred for Lichtenstein repair, especially in active and working-age patients to enhance postoperative comfort and satisfaction