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Association Between Statin Use and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, March 2016
Pages:
81-87
Received:
3 February 2016
Accepted:
17 February 2016
Published:
1 March 2016
Abstract: The relationship between statin use and the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to clarify this issue. Data on the relationship between statin use and the risk of HCC were collected through an electronic search of PubMed database. Summary odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidential intervals were calculated using a random-effects model. Six studies were selected for the final meta-analysis, involving 3778 cases and 482452 patients. Our meta-analysis showed that statin use was significantly associated with a decreased risk of HCC (OR, 0.60, 95% confidence interval, 0.48–0.76). In conclusion, the meta-analysis suggests that statin use is associated with a reduced risk of HCC. However, our findings should be interpreted with caution due to limited studies.
Abstract: The relationship between statin use and the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to clarify this issue. Data on the relationship between statin use and the risk of HCC were collected through an electronic search of PubMed database. Summary odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidential inter...
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Influence of Job Description on Performance of Health Workers in Public Hospitals: A Case of Mbagathi Hospital, Nairobi City County
Felistus Ndanu Musyoka,
Maureen Atieno Adoyo,
Musa Oluoch Ongombe
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, March 2016
Pages:
88-93
Received:
6 February 2016
Accepted:
16 February 2016
Published:
1 March 2016
Abstract: Sound human resources management (HRM) practices are essential in strengthening the health systems (HS). HRM practices including use of job description (JD) can transform health workers (HWs) into a productive and motivated workforce that improves healthcare services. Kenyan HS miss this nonmonetary motivator of health workers which is correlated with health worker poor job satisfaction and poor performance in service delivery. This study sought to determine how JD influences the performance of health workers (HWs) using descriptive and exploratory research study design. Questionnaires and key informant guides were completed by sampled technical staff and managers working at Mbagathi hospital. Quantitative and qualitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis respectively. Results indicated that the health service managers were not aware of policies on HRM practices. Clear JD, work plans and task description were available to a little extent (54.0%, 53.2% and 52.6% respectively). Established lines of authority were available to a moderate extent (59.3%). The health workers performance was rated at a mean score of 57.6% with a standard deviation of 4.2%. The study concludes that HRM practices were poorly implemented in the hospital. Health service managers needed basic training on JD among other HRM practices including and to establish a department that will implement the practices.
Abstract: Sound human resources management (HRM) practices are essential in strengthening the health systems (HS). HRM practices including use of job description (JD) can transform health workers (HWs) into a productive and motivated workforce that improves healthcare services. Kenyan HS miss this nonmonetary motivator of health workers which is correlated w...
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Socio-Demographic Characteristics Influencing Uptake of Screening for Cervical Cancer in Women Aged 18-49 Years in Imenti North Sub-county, Meru County, Kenya
Mutuma Agnes Muthoni,
Otieno George Ochieng,
Kei Robert Mburugu,
Ndege Samson,
Ndwiga Taratisio,
Gacheri Rose
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, March 2016
Pages:
94-99
Received:
13 January 2016
Accepted:
12 February 2016
Published:
4 March 2016
Abstract: Background: Cervical cancer continues to kill approximately 274,883 women globally every year, despite robust programs for the prevention and control of the disease. Kenya has an uptake of cervical cancer screening (3.2%) compared to the National Cervical Cancer Prevention program target of 70%. The purpose of this study was to determine the socio-demographic characteristics influencing uptake of cervical cancer screening in Imenti North Sub-County. Methods: This was institution-based descriptive cross- sectional study conducted among 422 randomly selected women aged 18-49 years attending general outpatient clinics in health facilities of Imenti North Sub-County, Kenya. Health Facilities were stratified based on functional levels to include county referral, health centers and dispensaries. Data was collected using interviewer administered questionnaire Characteristics influencing uptake of cervical cancer screening were analyzed using chi-square test and logistic regression to determine predictors for cervical cancer screening. Results: The study found out that the level of uptake for cervical cancer screening by the respondents was 15.2%. However, the level of the uptake was lowest among women aged 18-25 (4.4%) and women with primary level of education (11.6%). In addition, the study found significant association between uptake and age (p-value<0.001). Other significant socio-demographic characteristics include marital status and level of education. Women in age category 42-49 years were 6 times more likely to be screened compared to women aged 18-25 years (p-value=0.022). Conclusion and recommendations: The level of uptake for cervical cancer screening by the respondents was 15.2%. The main determinants of uptake of screening were age, marital status, occupation, and high level of education. It was recommended that Health Managers should conduct refresher seminars for health workers, increase facilities offering screening services and intensify community health education in order to increase uptake of cervical cancer screening.
Abstract: Background: Cervical cancer continues to kill approximately 274,883 women globally every year, despite robust programs for the prevention and control of the disease. Kenya has an uptake of cervical cancer screening (3.2%) compared to the National Cervical Cancer Prevention program target of 70%. The purpose of this study was to determine the socio-...
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A Stage Analysis of the Main Inputs and Outputs of China’s Health Reform
Feng Deng,
Juhong Lv,
Honglin Wang,
Jianmin Gao
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, March 2016
Pages:
100-106
Received:
6 March 2016
Published:
6 March 2016
Abstract: This paper analysis the main input and output of China's health reform from 2009 to 2013, the main purpose is find the main problems of China's health reform, and put forward policy recommendations, to provide references for the improvement of China's health reform and other national health reform in the future. The paper uses the method of empirical data analysis, the relevant data from the Chinese government statistics yearbook. Study found, although China's health reform has been implemented for seven years, China's health care model is still the center of disease treatment. Such health care model not only did not effectively reduce the medical burden of residents, but also did not improve the health level of residents. In fact, the health of the Chinese population is declining. Therefore, China should change the center of health care as soon as possible, from disease treatment to disease prevention, in order to improve the input and output performance of health care.
Abstract: This paper analysis the main input and output of China's health reform from 2009 to 2013, the main purpose is find the main problems of China's health reform, and put forward policy recommendations, to provide references for the improvement of China's health reform and other national health reform in the future. The paper uses the method of empiric...
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Eating Behavior and Body Mass Index Status of Senior Regular Undergraduate Students of Addis Ababa University
Tefera Tezera Negera,
Jemal Haidar Ali
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, March 2016
Pages:
107-116
Received:
9 February 2016
Accepted:
24 February 2016
Published:
12 March 2016
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to assess eating behavior and Body Mass Index status of Senior Regular Undergraduate students of Addis Ababa University. Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 774 sampled regular senior undergraduate students from three conveniently selected campuses of Addis Ababa University namely the main Campus, Technology and Science faculties. A pre-tested structured and semi structured questionnaires was used to collect the socioeconomic, demographic and eating behavior of the participants. This study highlights the presence of unhealthy eating behaviors attitude and a high prevalence of underweight among university students. It is concluded that promoting healthy eating behavior among young adults is crucial to achieve a healthy nutritional status.
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to assess eating behavior and Body Mass Index status of Senior Regular Undergraduate students of Addis Ababa University. Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 774 sampled regular senior undergraduate students from three conveniently selected campuses of Addis Ababa University namely the main Camp...
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Village Health Team Functionality in Uganda: Implications for Community System Effectiveness
Babughirana Geoffrey,
Muhirwe Barungi Lorna,
Kimurahebwe Clare
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, March 2016
Pages:
117-126
Received:
28 February 2016
Accepted:
9 March 2016
Published:
22 March 2016
Abstract: Community health workers have long been recognized as a critical cadre for the timely delivery of basic primary health care packages in low resource settings. In most countries, community health workers are semi-skilled workers who receive in-service training without structured curricula, mentorship approaches and clear opportunities for career advancement which affects their functionality. Several other external issues may affect community health worker functionality including availability of equipment and supplies, community involvement, country ownership and health system performance. Assessment of village health team (VHT) functionality was conducted in 24 districts in Uganda and involved 2369 village health workers. The study utilized guided self-assessments and participatory performance improvement processes based on the Community Health Worker Assessment and Improvement Matrix (CHWAIM) toolkit. Functionality assessment focused on 15 programmatic components regarded as essential for effective CHW programs. Data collection and functionality scoring was done at district level with the involvement of district leaders and VHTs themselves. Data from study districts was pooled into one national data set and aggregated to provide an aggregate representation of the national VHT functionality situation in Uganda. VHT functionality is affected by various programmatic components interacting at various levels. Our findings indicate that the four operational regions of the country are at different levels of VHT functionality with Karamoja region having the highest functionality level (52%) and Central region having the lowest functionality (38%). At an aggregate level, the national VHT functionality stood at 46%. In all the regions; supervision, individual performance evaluation and referral linkages registered a functionality score of 1 or 0 indicating either partial or non-functionality. This was the same finding for reporting and availability of equipment and supplies which obtained a score of 1 in all the regions except Karamoja. Overall program evaluation and country ownership scores were both 1 which has implications for achieving optimum VHT functionality levels in Uganda. As Uganda looks towards re-engineering its health system to meet the sustainable development goals, sufficient attention must be paid to strategies that support routine monitoring of the functionality of village health teams for overall program excellence.
Abstract: Community health workers have long been recognized as a critical cadre for the timely delivery of basic primary health care packages in low resource settings. In most countries, community health workers are semi-skilled workers who receive in-service training without structured curricula, mentorship approaches and clear opportunities for career adv...
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Evidence of Co and Triple Infections of Hepatitis B and C Amongst HIV Infected Pregnant Women in Buea, Cameroon
George Mondinde Ikomey,
Graeme Brendon Jacobs,
Becky Tanjong,
Martha Tongo Mesembe,
Agnes Eyoh,
Emilia Lyonga,
Ebot Mfoataw,
Rose Ngoh,
Cynthia Raissa Tamandjou,
Greg Ikomey,
Marie Claire Okomo Assoumou
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, March 2016
Pages:
127-131
Received:
17 January 2016
Accepted:
1 February 2016
Published:
28 March 2016
Abstract: Little epidermiological data is available on the prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Co-and or triple infection during pregnancy in Cameroon as well as many other resource limited settings. HIV and Hepatitis B and C are major public health concerns world wide. Our study aimed at assessing the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C amongst HIV infected pregnant women in Buea, located in the Southwest region of Cameroon. A Cross-sectional study on consented pregnant women were conducted from March 2015 to August 2015. HIV-1 infections were detected using the national HIV-1 test algorithms. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBe and anti- Hepatitis C (anti-HCV) were detected using Enzyme linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs). Of the 1230 recruited pregnant women, 97/1230 (7.8%) (95% CI: 3.5, 29.0%) were confirmed HIV-1 positive. HIV/HBV co-infection were observed in 14/97 (14.4%) (95% CI: 39.8, 100%), whilst 11/97 (11.3 %; 95% CI: 27.5, 100%) were HIV/HCV co-infections. Two HIV-infected pregnant women (8/97(8.2%; 95% CI: 0.1, 17.2%)) were HIV/HBV/HCV triple-infected. Anti-HBc was detected in all HBV-infected pregnant women (14/14; (100.0%)) (95.0% CI: 39.8, 100.0%). Seropositivity for HIV-1 was higher (37%) amongst subjects aged between 32-37 years, whilst none was found above 40. From our results we conclude that Co- and triple infections of HIV, Hepatitis B and C were present amongst pregnant women in Buea. Epidemiological data generated from this study are limited due to the existence of triple infected. It will therefore serve as a guide to the government policies to reinforce screening, treatment and prevention strategies, through its Mother–to-Child–transmission (pMTCT) Programme nationwide.
Abstract: Little epidermiological data is available on the prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Co-and or triple infection during pregnancy in Cameroon as well as many other resource limited settings. HIV and Hepatitis B and C are major public health concerns world wide. Our study aimed at assessing the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C amongst HIV infect...
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Epidemiological Analysis of Malaria Outbreak in Ankesha District, Awi Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia, 2012: Weaknesses in Control Measures and Risk Factors
Mastewal Worku Lake,
Mulugeta Mebratu,
Degu Mehari,
Kelemu Dessie
Issue:
Volume 4, Issue 2, March 2016
Pages:
132-137
Received:
28 December 2015
Accepted:
12 January 2016
Published:
24 March 2016
Abstract: While malaria is mostly an endemic disease in Ethiopia. It may also occur as outbreaks in areas with low seasonal transmission because of an increase in vector breeding sites, migration of infected people into a vector-rich area populated with susceptible individuals, breakdown of vector control measures and resistance of the vectors to insecticides. The aim of this study was to verify, investigate the outbreak epidemiologically and guide intervention measures. We reviewed data from health post records from 2007 to 2011 and screened randomly 50 fevers cases from the community members by Rapid Diagnostic Test/RDT/ to determine the baseline incidence of malaria in Ankesha District. We defined a confirmed malaria cases as any person with fever or fever with headache with plasmodium parasites by confirmed microscopy and RDT. We conduct descriptive epidemiological study and Entomological survey. A total of 2,061 confirmed malaria cases and one death (CFR=0.05%) were identified. Among the species distributions, plasmodium falciparum was accounted 1484 (72%). The alert threshold (Quartile for 5th year’s data/doubling the last year data) had been reached and crossed in 24th March, 2012 in all health facilities. It showed highest peak between the epidemiological weeks of 17-27 in 2012. The median age was 17 years with a range 0.2 to 83 years. The highest age specific attack rate was in 5-14yr, 17.9 per1000 (642) population. Among sex distribution male comprise 53.3%. The attack rate was high in Azena Kebele which was 165per 1000(883) population in under-fives and 132 per 1000(745) population in>5 years old. Environmental assessment revealed the presence of multiple breeding sits, which was favorable for larvae of Anopheles mosquito. Arbitrarily 53 visited households were observed the LLIN bed net utilization, only 17 (32.1%) households were hanging in their ceiling directly to the bedding. And also IRS was not sprayed for last one years in all affected kebeles. The outbreak was caused by the breakage of Ayehu river formed high larva density, improper usage of LLIN’s bed net and impediment / low coverage of IRS operation. Factors such as delayed detection and notification and inadequate surveillance were also instrumental for the outbreak. We recommended creates awareness giving health education, strengthen the surveillance system and implement a community based program on the LLINs utilization, IRS and environmental management.
Abstract: While malaria is mostly an endemic disease in Ethiopia. It may also occur as outbreaks in areas with low seasonal transmission because of an increase in vector breeding sites, migration of infected people into a vector-rich area populated with susceptible individuals, breakdown of vector control measures and resistance of the vectors to insecticide...
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