West African Journal Of Medicine[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Psychological and Somatic Challenges Identified in a Menopause Rating Scale Assessment of Women Living with HIV in Lagos, Nigeria.
Okwuraiwe AP, Shodipe O, Uwandu M … +3 more , Onwuamah CK, Ezechi OC, Flowers L
West Afr J Med · 2025 Dec · PMID 42035301
BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a global health challenge disproportionately affecting women. Women living with HIV (WLWH) may experience earlier and more intense menopausal symptoms than...
BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a global health challenge disproportionately affecting women. Women living with HIV (WLWH) may experience earlier and more intense menopausal symptoms than others, which may influence their retention in therapy and treatment response. A standardized life quality assessment scale, the menopause rating scale (MRS), is a health-related quality-of-life tool for symptoms evaluation and is valuable in diagnosing menopause challenges. OBJECTIVE: To assess the menopausal psychological and somatic challenges of WLWH on antiretroviral therapy using the MRS, and evaluate occurrence of menopausal symptoms, in comparison with women free from the infection. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was adopted. Adult WLWH (n=344), 35 to 65 years (encompassing the pre-, peri- and post-menopausal stages) on ART for at least two years were surveyed using the MRS questionnaire (psychological, somatic and urogenital) including socio-demographic queries. A control group (n=90) composed of age-matched women were also assessed for the same. Frequency distribution and p-values were calculated using Epi info (version 7). RESULTS: Among the 344 WLWH, 157 (45.6%), 12 (3.4%) and 175 (51%), were pre-, peri-, and post-menopausal, respectively. Median age of menopause onset was 48 (IQR 42-52) and 49.3 (IQR 45-55) years. Somatic and psychological challenges were more experienced by the WLWH, comprising joint/muscle complaints, sleeping disorders, anxiety, depression, irritability and exhaustion at rates of 59.4%, 29.2%, 27.4%, 26.5%, 23.5%, and 22.3% respectively. Controls had somewhat similar levels of challenges, at 52.2%, 31.1%, 27.7%, 23.3%, 21.1%, and 18.8% respectively. Participants with severe symptoms were 3.2%. CONCLUSIONS: WLWH had major psychological and somatic challenges indistinctive from uninfected women, which included joint/muscle complaints, depression and anxiety. Menopausal WLWH experience unique challenges that require thoughtful solutions. To enhance clinical care, it is essential to prioritize these factors that improve their quality of life.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Integrated Patient-Centred Care: Implications for Clinical Practice and Health Systems.
Erhabor GE, Olajubu TO
West Afr J Med · 2025 Dec · PMID 42033732
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Knowledge, Perception, Barriers and Facilitators to Sleep Medicine Practice among Nigerian Paediatricians.
Olorunmoteni OE, Kareem AJ, Oyetoke TT … +5 more , Sayomi BA, Akande JI, Afeniforo OG, Chinonye I, Komolafe MA
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41801239
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and perception of Nigerian paediatricians regarding paediatric sleep disorders and their management. It also assessed the state of their current practic...
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and perception of Nigerian paediatricians regarding paediatric sleep disorders and their management. It also assessed the state of their current practice with screening, evaluating and treating sleep disorders in children and the perceived barriers and facilitators to the provision of quality care for sleep disorders for Nigerian children. METHODS: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 153 Paediatricians who practice in Nigeria and attended the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Paediatrics Association of Nigeria (PAN) held in January 2023 at Akure, Ondo state, Nigeria. We utilized a pilot-tested, semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the Paediatrics sleep survey questionnaire. Data was analysed with the IBM SPSS software, version 20. RESULTS: The 153 respondents were from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. More than two-thirds (66.7%) had a poor knowledge score (<6). The majority of the respondents rated their confidence in diagnosing sleep disorders as fair (63.4%), while 22.2% rated it as poor. Almost all (98.7%) reported the lack of sleep laboratory in their centre of practice. Also, about two-thirds (68.0%) had no paediatric sleep clinic. The main barriers to the management of paediatric sleep disorders were lack of training (119; 77.3%) and lack of sleep laboratory (102; 66.7%). Having a sleep laboratory in the centre of practice was significantly associated with the knowledge of the paediatricians (p = 0.044). CONCLUSION: There is a need for interventions to improve the knowledge of Nigerian paediatricians on sleep medicine and the provision of Paediatric sleep laboratory facilities in Nigeria.
Willing but Unable - Exploring the Barriers to Living Kidney Donation in a Tertiary Hospital in Southeast Nigeria: A Preliminary Report.
Okwuonu CG, Ekwenna OD, Orji IJ … +6 more , Erondu MA, Sylvanus-Kanu H, Alhassan S, Chuku A, Onyebuchi AK, Balogun RA
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41801162
BACKGROUND: Kidney transplantation in Nigeria has witnessed remarkable advancements. Availability of suitable and willing living donors is one of the major factors leading to its success. The aim of this study was to ide...
BACKGROUND: Kidney transplantation in Nigeria has witnessed remarkable advancements. Availability of suitable and willing living donors is one of the major factors leading to its success. The aim of this study was to identify and analyze the reasons for exclusion of potential living kidney donors in a transplant program at a tertiary hospital in Southeast Nigeria. This is important in order to improve donor screening, maximize the living donor pool and ensure donor safety. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of kidney transplant register and medical records at the transplant clinic of Federal Medical Center Umuahia, Southeast Nigeria. Relevant clinical data of potential living kidney donors who presented for pre-donation evaluation over a period of 8 years were collated in excel sheet and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Tables, charts and graphs were used to illustrate some data. RESULTS: Pre-donation evaluation records of sixty four potential living donors were retrieved. Median age was 23 (IQR=19-39) years There were 62 males and 2 females with M:F ratio of 31:1. Majority were unskilled workers (83%) and unrelated to prospective recipients (61%). Among those related to the patients (39%), there were more second-degree relatives (22%) than first degree relatives (17%). Out of the 64 potential kidney donors, 13 (20%) eventually donated while 51(80%) did not. Factors that prevented eventual kidney donation included immunological incompatibility (32.8%), albuminuria (11%), hypertension (9%), financial motivation (9%), nephrolithiasis (4.7%), donor withdrawal from donation process (4.7%), Hepatitis B infection (3%), prediabetes (3%) and abnormal cardiac function (1.5%). CONCLUSION: The potential living donors evaluated were mostly young males that were unrelated to their potential recipients. Immunologic incompatibility was the leading cause of failure to donate a kidney; mainly from donor-recipient significant HLA mismatches.
Risk Factors Associated with Hypertension Among People Living with HIV Attending the Special Treatment Clinic, National Hospital, Abuja.
Okafor NE, Moses AL
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41801148
BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major chronic comorbidity among people living with HIV (PLHIV), and it remains a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease in this group. The study identified risk factors for hyper...
BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major chronic comorbidity among people living with HIV (PLHIV), and it remains a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease in this group. The study identified risk factors for hypertension among PLHIV and assessed their cardiovascular risk. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 284 adults attending the Special Treatment Clinic, National Hospital Abuja (June-August 2021) collected hypertension risk-factor data using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Analysis was conducted with EPI Info 7.1, and logistic regression identified factors associated with hypertension at a significance level of p < 0.05. RESULT: Two hundred and eighty-four (284) patients met the inclusion criteria and were recruited. The mean ±SD age of the respondents was 43.2±8.8 years, with a range of 20 to 67 years. The prevalence of hypertension among HIV sero-positive patients was 19.7%. After logistic regression, the independent determinants of hypertension were age group 45-54 years (OR 0.9, CI 0.8-1.0, P=0.007), female gender (OR 3.4, CI 1.3-8.5, P 0.009), secondary level of education (OR 2.9, CI 1.5-5.6, P 0.002), physical inactivity (OR 0.4, CI 0.2-0.9, P 0.033), and CD4 count >500 cells/mm³ (OR 0.4, CI 0.2-0.8, P 0.013). CONCLUSION: Hypertension is common among PLHIV. Older age, female gender, secondary level of education, physical inactivity, and CD4 count >500cells/mm³ were significantly associated with hypertension. Most participants had a low cardiovascular risk. Incorporating routine hypertension screening and risk factor assessment into HIV care is crucial to lessen the burden of this condition in this population.
Spirometry Patterns, Respiratory Symptoms, and Respiratory Diseases among Patients in a Respiratory Center in Southeast Nigeria.
Nwosu NI, Ufoaroh CU, Obiefuna AG … +7 more , Udeh CF, Nlewedim P, Uduma V, Onyedum CC, Chukwuka CJ, Anyabolu EN, Nwosu EO
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41801122
BACKGROUND: Spirometry provides useful information on lung diseases. The spirometry patterns of patients with lung disease and respiratory symptoms have not been completely identified. This study sought to determine the...
BACKGROUND: Spirometry provides useful information on lung diseases. The spirometry patterns of patients with lung disease and respiratory symptoms have not been completely identified. This study sought to determine the spirometry patterns of patients presenting with respiratory symptoms and the relationship between the spirometry patterns and the respiratory symptoms. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study involving 285 patients at a specialist respiratory laboratory in Enugu, Nigeria. Sociodemographic data, risk factors and respiratory symptoms were collected and spirometry conducted. Spirometry patterns were determined and the relationship between spirometry patterns and respiratory symptoms were determined using ANOVA and Chi-square. p<0.05 was taken as statistically significant. RESULTS: Two hundred and eighty-five subjects were studied. Their mean age was 48.4 ±21.7 years. Male patients were 117 and females 168. The most frequent symptom was cough (58.6%) followed by chest tightness (46.3%), central chest pain (46.0%), and difficulty breathing during physical activity (41.4%). Nine (3.2%) had asthma, whereas chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was found in 14(4.9%), asthma-COPD overlap (ACO) 16(5.6%), normal pattern 144(50.53%), and preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm) 63(22.11%). There was statistically significant difference (F = 3.002, p = 0.031) in the mean Forced Expiratory Time (FET) values between the groups. Abnormal ventilatory function, predominantly the obstructive pattern, was significant in patients with cough and sputum production (p=0.001), noisy breathing (p<0.001), and difficulty in breathing out (p=0.012). COPD was poorly diagnosed without spirometry, 2 (14.29%). CONCLUSION: Obstructive spirometry pattern were common in patients with respiratory symptoms in this study.
Spectrum and Prevalence of Comorbidities in Stable COPD Patients Attending a Chest Clinic in Nigeria.
Desalu OO, Aladesanmi AO, Ojuawo OB … +4 more , Opeyemi CM, Adunmo GO, Fawibe AE, Salami AK
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41801087
BACKGROUND: COPD comorbidities have a significant impact on prognosis. There is underdiagnosis of comorbidities in sub-Saharan Africa. The study aimed to assess the prevalence and spectrum of comorbidities in stable COPD...
BACKGROUND: COPD comorbidities have a significant impact on prognosis. There is underdiagnosis of comorbidities in sub-Saharan Africa. The study aimed to assess the prevalence and spectrum of comorbidities in stable COPD patients, and compare the pattern of comorbidities in COPD caused by biomass smoke (B-COPD) with tobacco smoking (T-COPD) in a Nigerian hospital's chest clinic. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional clinico-laboratory study. Standardized instruments and questionnaire administration followed by spirometry and laboratory blood tests were used to obtain relevant clinical information and identify comorbidities, and 94 (31.3%) of them were assessed retrospectively. RESULTS: All 75 patients had multiple comorbidities; 8(10.7%) had two comorbidities, and 67 (89.3 %) had ≥ 3 comorbidities. The mean comorbidity count was 4.2 in males and 3.8 in females (p=0.130). The prevalence of haematologic, neurologic, cardiovascular, psychological, musculoskeletal, and infectious conditions were 86.7%, 76.0%, 61.3%, 49.7%, 34.7%, and 33.3%, respectively. The leading comorbidities were anaemia (65; 86.7%), impaired sleep quality (57; 76%) and systemic hypertension (42; 56%). None of the subjects had polycythemia. One-third (25; 33.3%) had osteoarthritis, 23(30.7%) had anxiety, 26(34.7%) had dyslipidemia, and 13(17%) had depression. 10(13.3%) were underweight, and 9(10.7%) had pulmonary TB. Less than 10% had obesity, HIV infection and renal impairment. Anaemia was more prevalent in male patients compared to female patients (97.7% vs. 71.9%), whereas osteoarthritis was more prevalent in female patients compared to male patients (53.1% vs 18.6%). Systemic hypertension, anxiety, and HIV were significantly more frequent in COPD caused by tobacco (T-COPD) than in COPD caused by biomass smoke (B-COPD). Osteoarthritis was more common in B-COPD than in T-COPD. CONCLUSION: The study shows that most COPD patients had multimorbidity, and anaemia, impaired sleep quality and systemic hypertension were the leading comorbidities. Systemic hypertension is commoner in tobacco-related COPD. This study highlights the need for healthcare providers to be aware of these differences in comorbidity patterns compared to those in developed nations when caring for COPD patients. WAJM 2025; 42 (8): 642-651.
Solid-Waste Quantification and Characterization in A Tertiary Institution in Southwest Nigeria: A Case Study of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (Luth) / College of Medicine of The University of Lagos.
Abiola AO, AbdulKareem AT, Adelopo AO … +8 more , Omotayo MT, Ezekiel E, Matti O, Wika-Kobani B, Giwa O, Ibenye-Ugbala C, Omotayo HA, Abdulraheem KS
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41801075
BACKGROUND: Higher Education Institutions are expected to lead the paradigm shift in waste management by adopting strategies that will contribute to sustainable development in their operations. The impact of these innova...
BACKGROUND: Higher Education Institutions are expected to lead the paradigm shift in waste management by adopting strategies that will contribute to sustainable development in their operations. The impact of these innovations will expectedly diffuse to their surrounding communities. Waste composition studies in HEIs enables the identification of campus-specific opportunities for waste reduction and recycling. The aim of this study was to assess the quantity, composition of solid waste generated by the staff and students of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine, University of Lagos (LUTH/CMUL) compound. METHODS: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in the LUTH/CMUL compound. Solid waste generated from the commercial, academic and research; administrative and residential areas were quantified and characterized during the study. Solid waste generated in the four activity areas collected were sorted, classified and weighed using a weighing balance. RESULTS: An estimated 14.775 tonnes of waste is generated daily from the compound with a waste generation rate of 0.29/kg/capita/day. Plastic and polythene bags made up majority (31.1%) of the total solid waste generated in the compound followed by organic waste (23%). In the commercial area, organic waste (57.21%) formed majority of the waste, plastics formed the majority (22.95%) of the waste in the residential areas and paper waste was mostly generated in the administrative area (41.22%) and, the academic and research areas (36.10%). CONCLUSION: The quantity and composition of the solid waste generated are affected by the activities ongoing in the different categorized areas. A solid waste management scheme hinged on a zero waste policy should be designed by the LUTH and CMUL authorities. This scheme should tackle reduction of waste at source, efficient waste collection from generation points, waste recovery, recycling and composting, proper training of stakeholders and provision of incentives.
An Audit of Early Infant HIV Diagnosis and Protocol at Wesley Guild Hospital and Its Cost Effectiveness.
Oyedeji OA, Ogundele T, Oso BI … +4 more , Ayinde JB, Kuti DK, Agelebe E, Adejuyigbe EA
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41800955
BACKGROUND: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) screening protocol for high and low risk for HIV transmission exposed infants needs appraisal. OBJECTIVE: To audit the cost effectiveness of the early HIV infant diagnos...
BACKGROUND: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) screening protocol for high and low risk for HIV transmission exposed infants needs appraisal. OBJECTIVE: To audit the cost effectiveness of the early HIV infant diagnosis protocol, by the 2020 (recent) and 2016 (previous) Nigerian guidelines screening protocol. METHODS: All babies delivered by HIV infected mothers over 4years at the Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa were studied. Their HIV status, risk category and age at early infant diagnosis were analyzed. RESULTS: Seventy-two infants and their mother were studied. Thirteen (18.1%) of the total 72 studied were HIV infected. All HIV infections were in the 21 high risk category compared to none in the 51 low risk category (P <0.01). Fifty (98.0%) low risk infants had HIV DNA Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing between 6 -8 weeks compared to one (4.5%) high risk between 6-8weeks. (P <0.01). The 21 (95.5%) high risk infants had their first PCR screening between 3 and 14 months. Rapid screening was conducted at 18months for all the 67 infants that survived till this age. The calculated screening cost by the current protocol is thrice as expensive, but equally sensitive for diagnosis as the year 2016 National screening protocol, for low-risk category infants. More than 95% of infants were well immunized and stopped breast feeding at 12 months. CONCLUSION: The year 2016 HIV screening protocol is cost effective and should be adopted for screening infants at low risk of HIV acquisition. Significantly higher rates of infection occur in the high-risk category at unknown times, thus necessitating very early screening. Rescheduling of the 9th month rapid screening to coincide with MMR vaccination at 15months is advised to allow for cessation of HIV exposure following breast feeding termination at 12 months.
Digital Eye Syndrome Among Tertiary Institution Students in the Post-Covid Era: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Adepoju ST, Owolabi AT, Akande GT … +2 more , Oseji DI, Fajobi EO
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41800860
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the prevalence of the symptoms and risk factors of Digital Eye Syndrome (DES) among tertiary institution students in the post-COVID era. METHODS: This is a cross-section...
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the prevalence of the symptoms and risk factors of Digital Eye Syndrome (DES) among tertiary institution students in the post-COVID era. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional observational study conducted in a tertiary institution. Participants included students who use digital screens for academic and recreational activities. Inclusion criteria involved students with at least ten minutes of daily screen time. A structured questionnaire was used to assess screen time, symptoms, and ergonomic practices. Data collection included self-reported symptoms of DES and potential risk factors such as screen duration, posture, and lighting conditions. The primary outcomes were the prevalence of DES symptoms, including eye strain, headaches, dryness, and blurred vision, as well as associated ergonomic and behavioral risk factors. RESULTS: A significant proportion of students reported experiencing symptoms of DES as follows: approximately half of the respondents (49.8%) reported experiencing irritation or a gritty feeling in the eye(s), 26.5% reported a burning sensation in their eyes, eye fatigue (57.6%), sensitivity to bright light (68.7%), and a dry feeling in the eye (25.4%). Additionally, symptoms like blurring of vision (37.1%), itching (41.3%), and tearing (35.8%) were also prevalent among respondents. Statistical analysis (Chi-square test) revealed associations between prolonged screen time (8-11 hours screen time, p = 0.040) which is statistically significant; poor ergonomic practices are not statistically significant (p = 0.444 for lying down, placing the screen below the eye level, p = 0.560) and increased symptom severity. CONCLUSIONS: Symptoms of Digital Eye Syndrome are still prevalent among tertiary institution students in the post-COVID era, exacerbated by prolonged screen use and poor ergonomics. Implementing preventive strategies, such as regular breaks and optimized lighting, may mitigate symptoms. Further studies are recommended to explore the long-term ocular effects of digital devices.
Neonatal Eye Diseases and Associated Factors in Calabar, Nigeria.
Nkanga ED, Esu EB, Nlemadim AC … +5 more , Agweye CT, Nkanga ED, Nkanga UD, Ochigbo SO, Nkanga DG
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41800820
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To assess the pattern of eye diseases among newborn infants in newborn units in Calabar, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study of the eyes of newborns in 5 newborn units in...
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To assess the pattern of eye diseases among newborn infants in newborn units in Calabar, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study of the eyes of newborns in 5 newborn units in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria was undertaken over a 10-week period extending from February 28, 2018 through May 9, 2018. Newborn whose parent gave informed consent were included, whereas those not consented for or too ill were excluded. The study was conducted with the help of a structured questionnaire and study protocol. Each newborn had basic ophthalmic examination. Ethical approval was obtained from the Health Research and Ethics Committee of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and the Cross River State Ministry of Health. Categorical variables were compared using Chi-Square Test and Fishers's Exact Test (FET). RESULTS: A total of 410 newborn were studied. The male: female ratio was 1:1.2 and the mean age was 7.02 days. The most common eye disease was sub-conjunctival haemorrhage 47(11.5%). This was followed by conjunctivitis 26 (6.3%), retinal haemorrhage 24(5.9%), congenital cataracts 8(2%) and clinical anophthalmia 2(0.5%). The least frequent findings were congenital glaucoma, congenital eyelid eversion, macular oedema, at 1 (0.2%) each respectively. Eye disease was associated with an abnormal antenatal period (11.218, p-0.001) birth weight (FET: 12.423, 0.007), and or eventful labour history (FET: 26.805, <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A significant proportion of eye disease in newborn is associated with an eventful perinatal period. Early detection of eye disease through instituted routine eye examinations may aid in preventing permanent disability from adverse sequelae, reducing the incidence of low vision or avoidable blindness.
Universal and Selective Screening for Detection of Hyperglycaemia in Pregnancy in Low Income Country: An Appraisal of Figo Recommendation on Universal Screening.
Odoh GU, Udealor PC, Ugwu EO … +4 more , Ezugwu EC, Iloghalu EI, Nnagbo JE, Dim CC
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41793699
BACKGROUND: Hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP) comes with both maternal and fetal complications; universal and selective screening have been used by various guidelines for its diagnosis. An appraisal of FIGO's recommended...
BACKGROUND: Hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP) comes with both maternal and fetal complications; universal and selective screening have been used by various guidelines for its diagnosis. An appraisal of FIGO's recommended universal screening is essential for domestication in low-resource settings. OBJECTIVE: To compare universal and selective screening methods for the determination of hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP), including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and diabetes in pregnancy (DIP) in a low-resource setting. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of pregnant women in Enugu, southeast Nigeria. The eligible women in each group were consecutively recruited between 24-28 weeks gestational age and their fasting blood sugar (FBS) and 2 hours post prandial (2HPP) glucose levels were tested. Included were all consenting pregnant women between 24-28 weeks gestational age while excluded were those beyond 28 weeks and know diabetics already on treatment. The first group (universal group) was universally screened while in the second group (selective group) only participants with risk factors for HIP were screened. All data were analysed using statistical package for social sciences version 24 at 95% confidence level. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of HIP, GDM and DIP were 7.1% (36/508), 5.6% (28/508) and 1.4% (7/508), respectively. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of HIP, GDM and DIP between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, 42.9% of cases of GDM and 66.7% of cases of DIP recorded in the universal group were from participants without any risk factor for HIP. CONCLUSION: The detection of HIP, GDM and DIP is similar using the two screening methods. However, about half of the cases of HIP would be missed with selective screening. Obstetricians are therefore encouraged to adopt the universal screening method as selective screening is associated with missed diagnosis of HIP.
The Health Hazards of Excessive Screen Use.
Erhabor GE
West Afr J Med · 2025 Aug · PMID 41793694
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Spectrum of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases in a Rheumatology Clinic in Nigeria: A Report of the First 5000 Patients.
Adelowo OO, Ibrahim A, Airenakho E … +6 more , Ojo O, Ahmad H, Onwualu O, Aliyu H, Olaosebikan HB, Yerima A
West Afr J Med · 2025 Jul · PMID 41378782
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) are important causes of morbidity, disability, and mortality worldwide, including in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the spectrum of RMDs in this regi...
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) are important causes of morbidity, disability, and mortality worldwide, including in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the spectrum of RMDs in this region has not been well documented due to a lack of data. This is particularly true since many of the diseases observed were previously considered rare among Africans. This study aims to identify the various RMDs seen in a private rheumatology facility in Lagos, Nigeria. METHOD: The case records of the first 5,000 consecutive patients diagnosed with RMDs between January 2004 and May 2022 were reviewed. Diagnoses were made using standard rheumatology guidelines/consensus, societal guidelines, or clinical evaluation. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. RESULTS: The mean ± SD age of the 5,000 patients was 52.33 ± 16.15 years, with a female-to-male ratio of 1.7:1. The frequency of the common RMDs were degenerative joint diseases (54.16%), followed by inflammatory arthritis (14.52%), soft tissue rheumatism (13.28%) and connective tissue diseases (10.32%). Females were more commonly affected in all categories except crystal arthropathies and spondyloarthropathy. Septic arthritis, metabolic bone diseases, and orphan diseases were rarely seen, at 0.26%, 0.28%, and 0.82% of the total, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study, which includes arguably the largest cohort of RMD patients in sub-Saharan Africa, revealed a wide spectrum of RMDs, contrary to previous assumptions that RMDs are rare among Africans. As this is a hospital-based study, large population-based studies are recommended to determine the burden of RMDs in the community to guide policy implementation and resource allocation.
Rubella IgG Immunity: Spatial Distribution, Euclidean Distance Analysis, Correlates and Predictors among Women of Reproductive Age, Southwest Nigeria.
Durowade KA, Musa OI, Adeniyi MA … +6 more , Mudashiru RB, Sanni TA, Salaudeen AG, Suleiman ST, Ilori OR, Parakoyi DB
West Afr J Med · 2025 Jul · PMID 41378734
BACKGROUND: Rubella is a leading cause of preventable congenital abnormalities. Paucity of data exists on the national morbidity burden of rubella infection, particularly among women of reproductive age in Nigeria. Added...
BACKGROUND: Rubella is a leading cause of preventable congenital abnormalities. Paucity of data exists on the national morbidity burden of rubella infection, particularly among women of reproductive age in Nigeria. Added to this is the absent immunization policy on rubella vaccination in Nigeria. OBJECTIVES: To determine the spatial and Euclidean distribution, correlates and predictors of rubella immunity among women of reproductive age in Ekiti state, southwest Nigeria. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional survey for rubella IgG antibodies among women of reproductive age selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Data was collected quantitatively using interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Blood sample was collected for qualitative assay of rubella IgG. Global Positioning System (GPS) co-ordinates of sampled households were recorded. Euclidean distance tool in the ArcGIS environment analyzed the proximity to established rubella IgG negative areas. Data entry and analysis was through the use of Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) 23 and level of statistical significance was set at p-value < 0.05. RESULT: The mean age of the women was 30.5±7.9 years. A total of 482 (84.1%) had negative rubella IgG serology. There was wide spread immunity gap. Educated respondents (p=0.009), higher number of inhabitants in households (p=0.011), ever married (p<0.001) and prior vaccination history (p<0.001) were associated with rubella immunity. Secondary education (aOR=2.47; p=0.046) and urban location (aOR=0.45; p=0.003) were predictive of rubella immunity (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The rubella immunity gap cuts across both rural and urban areas with a potential for disease spread in the Euclidean-determined proximal areas. To reduce the wide spread immunity gap, increase herd immunity, the Federal Government of Nigeria needs to introduce rubella vaccination in the National Immunization. KEYWORDS: Rubella Immunity, Spatial Distribution, Correlates, Predictors, Women, Nigeria. CONTEXTE: La rubéole est une cause majeure d'anomalies congénitales évitables. Il existe une rareté de données sur la charge nationale de morbidité liée à l'infection rubéoleuse, en particulier chez les femmes en âge de procréer au Nigéria. À cela s'ajoute l'absence de politique nationale de vaccination contre la rubéole. OBJECTIFS: Déterminer la distribution spatiale et euclidienne, ainsi que les corrélats et prédicteurs de l'immunité contre la rubéole chez les femmes en âge de procréer dans l'État d'Ekiti, sud-ouest du Nigéria. MÉTHODES: Une enquête transversale communautaire a été menée pour la recherche d'anticorps IgG anti-rubéole chez des femmes en âge de procréer sélectionnées par une technique d'échantillonnage en plusieurs étapes. Les données ont été recueillies de manière quantitative à l'aide d'un questionnaire semi-structuré administré par un enquêteur. Un prélèvement sanguin a été effectué pour un test qualitatif des IgG anti-rubéole. Les coordonnées GPS des ménages échantillonnés ont été enregistrées. L'outil de distance euclidienne dans l'environnement ArcGIS a permis d'analyser la proximité des zones établies comme négatives aux IgG anti-rubéole. La saisie et l'analyse des données ont été réalisées avec le logiciel Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 23, et le seuil de signification statistique a été fixé à p < 0,05. RÉSULTATS: L'âge moyen des femmes était de 30,5 ± 7,9 ans. Au total, 482 (84,1 %) présentaient une sérologie IgG anti-rubéole négative. Un large déficit d'immunité a été observé. Les répondantes instruites (p = 0,009), les ménages avec un nombre élevé d'habitants (p = 0,011), les femmes déjà mariées (p < 0,001) et celles ayant un antécédent de vaccination (p < 0,001) étaient associées à l'immunité contre la rubéole. Le niveau d'éducation secondaire (aOR = 2,47 ; p = 0,046) et la localisation urbaine (aOR = 0,45 ; p = 0,003) étaient prédictifs de l'immunité contre la rubéole (p < 0,05). CONCLUSION: Le déficit d'immunité contre la rubéole touche à la fois les zones rurales et urbaines, avec un potentiel de propagation de la maladie dans les zones proximales déterminées par l'analyse euclidienne. Pour réduire ce déficit d'immunité, accroître l'immunité collective, le gouvernement fédéral du Nigéria doit introduire la vaccination contre la rubéole dans le Programme national de vaccination. MOTS-CLÉS: Immunité contre la rubéole, Distribution spatiale, Corrélats, Prédicteurs, Femmes, Nigéria.
Prevalence of Psychosis Spectrum Symptoms, Association with Quality of Life and Caregiver Burden in Yoruba Nigerians with Parkinson's Disease: A Matched Case Control Study.
Ojagbemi A, Adediran O, Oyedapo-Ishola H … +5 more , Olojugba T, Elugbadebo O, Imo U, Bakare AK, Taiwo F
West Afr J Med · 2025 Jul · PMID 41378672
BACKGROUND: Up to 60% of persons with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) will develop psychosis spectrum symptoms at some point during the course of illness. These symptoms are often undetected by attending physicians b...
BACKGROUND: Up to 60% of persons with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) will develop psychosis spectrum symptoms at some point during the course of illness. These symptoms are often undetected by attending physicians but are associated with great distress to patients and their caregivers. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prevalence and association of positive psychosis symptoms with quality of life (QoL) and caregivers' burden among clinic attendees with PD at two tertiary general hospitals in South western Nigeria. METHOD: A case-control study was conducted between February 2023 to June 2024. Cases (N=150) were neurology outpatients with PD. Controls (N=150) were neurologically healthy individuals matched for age, sex, education, and outpatient status. Psychosis, QoL, and caregiver burden were assessed using the Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS), PD-QoL questionnaire (PDQ-8), and Caregivers Strain Index (CSI), respectively. Adjusted odds ratios (aO.R) and standardized coefficients (aCoeff.) were estimated using regression analyses. Estimates were within 95% confidence intervals (C.I). RESULTS: Psychosis symptoms were present in 28% of cases. Hallucinations were the most frequent symptom (16.7%). Cases with Psychosis were more likely to be ≥60years (88.1%, p=0.020), ever users of alcohol (78.6%, p=0.012), had higher mean motor-severity scores (51.1±15.7, p<0.001), and probable dementia (21.4%, p=0.001). In unconditional logistic regression analyses, cases had approximately five-point increase in the independent odds psychosis (aOR=4.92, 95% C.I=2.20, 10.99), and two-point increase in the independent odds of requiring social support (aOR=1.95, 95% C.I=1.19, 3.21). CONCLUSION: The near five-point increase in the odds of psychosis spectrum symptoms in PD and their greater requirement for social support underscores the need for multidisciplinary approaches that include not only neurologists but psychiatrists, and social workers.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Contrast Induced Nephropathy in Maiduguri, Northeastern Nigeria.
Loskurima U, Sulaiman MM, Lawan M … +12 more , Farate A, Shettima J, Mamza A, Amali AO, Habibu AG, Dungus MM, Bunu B, Chiroma IK, Muhammad M, Dayar AD, Umar MS, Ummate I
West Afr J Med · 2025 Jul · PMID 41378474
BACKGROUND: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is the third leading cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) in developed countries. With the increase in contrast-based radiologic studies in developing countries, its contribut...
BACKGROUND: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is the third leading cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) in developed countries. With the increase in contrast-based radiologic studies in developing countries, its contribution to the burden of AKI is increasing. However, there are few researches conducted in this part of the world on AKI due to contrast administration. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence and risk factors of CIN in a tertiary health facility in northeastern Nigeria. METHODS: This prospective study was conducted at the Radiology department of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri, North eastern Nigeria. The study population consisted of 150 consenting adult patients referred for investigations involving contrast administration. Sociodemographic variables were obtained from each patient, and blood samples were collected before contrast administration, at 24, 48 and 72 hours after contrast administration and analyzed for creatinine. Serum creatinine obtained was used to calculate glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) using the CKD-EPI Creatinine 2012 Equation. Contrast induced nephropathy was defined as an absolute increase in serum creatinine ≥0.5mg/dl or ≥25% increase from baseline within 48 to 72 hours after administration of contrast media (CM). RESULTS: The prevalence of CIN was 30% (45 patients), and risk factors were; advancing age (OR=1.346, p=0.009), volume of contrast (OR=2.037, p=0.001), high serum creatinine at base-line (OR=1.601, p=0.006) and low eGFR at base-line (OR=1.767, p=0.003). CONCLUSION: Contrast induced nephropathy is a common complication of radiologic contrast studies in Maiduguri, northeastern Nigeria. Risk factors identified were advanced age >60 years, large volume of contrast >60ml, baseline serum creatinine >150µmol/l and GFR <60ml/minute/1.73m2.
Evaluation of Microalbuminuria Level to Determine Diabetic Nephropathy Among Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Zaria, Nigeria.
Dogara AB, Aliyu IS, Mshelia DS … +3 more , Suleiman HM, Mahmud FA, Abubakar MG
West Afr J Med · 2025 Jul · PMID 41370621
BACKGROUND: Microalbuminuria was reported to be elevated in diabetic nephropathy and high levels of this biomarker correlates with progressing nephropathy, decline in e-GFR and consequently renal failure in some patients...
BACKGROUND: Microalbuminuria was reported to be elevated in diabetic nephropathy and high levels of this biomarker correlates with progressing nephropathy, decline in e-GFR and consequently renal failure in some patients. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the level of microalbuminuria in type 2 diabetic patients and its correlation with renal function. METHOD: One hundred Type-2 diabetic patients and an equal number of apparently healthy, age and sex-matched controls were recruited. Urinary albumin and serum creatinine was measured using FIA and Jaffe kinetic methods respectively. Data was analysed using SPSS version 22.0 with level of significance at p < 0.05. Urinary albumin creatinine ratio (u-ACR) was calculated, serum creatinine was used to calculate e-GFR using Cockcroft and Gault formula; while Mann-Whitney test was used to compare difference between the two means. RESULTS: The u-ACR (3.15 (7.8, 1.3)) mg/mmol was found to be significantly higher in patients than controls (p = 0.000) while serum creatinine (74.00 (86.0, 67.0) μmol/L was found to be significantly lower in patients than controls (p = 0.000). Pearson's correlation showed significant negative correlation between u-ACR and e-GFR (r = - 0.318, p = 0.001) and between serum creatinine and e-GFR (r-value = - 0.546, p-value = 0.000), while a significant positive correlation between u-ACR and serum creatinine (r-value = 0.281, p = 0.005) among patients. CONCLUSION: The concentrations of microalbuminuria was higher in type 2 diabetic patients, and it may be used to assess renal function.
Enzymatic and Non-enzymatic Antioxidants as Related to Immediate Hospital Outcomes in Term Nigerian Babies with Perinatal Asphyxia.
Kuti DK, Ogundele T, Kuti BP … +2 more , Oyelami AO, Adejuyigbe EA
West Afr J Med · 2025 Jul · PMID 41370332
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Antioxidants are often released to neutralise free radicals and oxidants generated in babies with perinatal asphyxia (PA). This study aims to determine the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxida...
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Antioxidants are often released to neutralise free radicals and oxidants generated in babies with perinatal asphyxia (PA). This study aims to determine the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in babies with PA and the relationship between these antioxidants and hospital outcome at the Wesley Guild Hospital (WGH), Ilesa, Nigeria. METHODS: Consecutive term babies with or without asphyxia (defined as 5th minute Apgar score <7) were consecutively recruited into a comparative cross-sectional study at the labour ward of the WGH over a nine-month period. Babies were appropriately managed and outcome of hospitalisation documented. Five ml of cord blood was collected from the babies and analysed for enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants using chromatography methods (Water Incorporate, California, U.S.A). Data obtained were analysed using SPSS version 21. RESULTS: A total of 168 babies (84 for each group) were recruited with male to female ratio of 1.2:1. Sixty-one (72.6%), 23 (27.4%) had moderate and severe PA respectively. Cord blood antioxidants were lower in babies with PA. The enzymatic [glutathione peroxidase r = -0.298, p=0.006, glutathione transferase r=-0.222, p=0.042] and non-enzymatic [TAS, r=-0.316, p=0.003] antioxidants showed negative correlation with the length of hospitalization. However, no significant relationship was observed between the antioxidants and severity of asphyxia, as well as mortality among babies with PA. CONCLUSION: Low cord blood antioxidants (TAS and glutathione enzymes) may be useful indicators of increased length of hospital stay in Nigerian term babies admitted with PA. KEYWORDS: ; ; ;
Knowledge, Risk Perception and Prevention against Diphtheria among Caregivers of Children under-fives in Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Okwute TU, Joshua IA, Kabir S
West Afr J Med · 2025 Jul · PMID 41370241
BACKGROUND: Diphtheria, a re-emerging public health threat, is a vaccine-preventable acute respiratory infection caused by toxigenic strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Caregivers of this most vulnerable group must b...
BACKGROUND: Diphtheria, a re-emerging public health threat, is a vaccine-preventable acute respiratory infection caused by toxigenic strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Caregivers of this most vulnerable group must be knowledgeable of the disease, its risk factors, and preventive measures to curb its spread. OBJECTIVES: To determine the knowledge, risk perception and prevention against diphtheria among caregivers of under fives. METHOD: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in January 2024. A total of 288 caregivers of children under five years of age were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique, and data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, and results were presented in tables. The chi-square test was used to test for association between the socio-demographic variables and dependent variables, and the level of statistical significance was set at a p-value of <0.05. RESULTS: The median age of the respondents was 32 ± IQR 10.8 years. About half (51.7%) of the respondents had good knowledge of diphtheria, positive perception of the risk of the disease was reported in 77.1% of the respondents and 75.6% had good practice of the preventive measures against the disease. A quarter (26.8%) of the respondent's children took the complete 3 doses of the pentavalent vaccine. CONCLUSION: Despite positive diphtheria prevention behaviors, the identified gap in pentavalent vaccination coverage indicates a significant need for community immunization programs. Investigating the factors contributing to this low coverage is crucial for developing effective strategies to strengthen immunization programs.
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