Abstract Background: Cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of global morbidity and mortality, with a high burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Limited access to cardiac catheterisation services contributes to poor health outcomes. This study reviewed catheterisation procedures, indications and outcomes in a government-owned Nigerian tertiary hospital. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of all diagnostic and interventional procedures performed at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital cardiac catheterisation laboratory between July 2022 and October 2025 was conducted. Data on patient demographics, procedures, anaesthetic techniques, indications and outcomes were extracted from the laboratory register and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 588 procedures were performed. Mean patient age was 57.09 ± 16.62 years, with a slight male predominance (52.7%). Most procedures were conducted under local anaesthesia (72.6%). The most frequent procedures were inferior vena cava filter insertion (18.5%), coronary angiography (16.2%), percutaneous coronary intervention (15.8%) and pacemaker implantation (14.5%). Commonest indications were acute coronary syndrome (30.8%), venous thromboembolism (21.6%) and arrhythmias/conduction abnormalities (16.2%). Procedural volume increased progressively over the study period, with gradual expansion from predominantly diagnostic to more therapeutic procedures. Procedural success was high across all categories, with three deaths recorded (0.51%). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that cardiac catheterisation services can be safely and effectively delivered in a government-owned tertiary hospital within an LMIC. Strategic investment in establishing and expanding cardiac catheterisation is imperative to strengthen cardiovascular care delivery across the LMICs.
Abstract Introduction: Chronic viral hepatitis remains a major global health concern, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where Nigeria bears a high disease burden. Despite the World Health Organisation’s (WHO’s) target to eliminate hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections by 2030, testing and treatment coverage in Nigeria remain suboptimal. This study assessed HBV and HCV prevalence in a community in North Central Nigeria to inform local elimination efforts. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted during a medical outreach at the Emir’s palace in Shabu, Nasarawa State, in October 2022. A total of 117 participants, including royal family members, village heads and nearby residents, were screened for HBV and HCV using rapid diagnostic test kits. Data on age, gender, and test results were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 27, with significance set at a P value of < 0.05. Results: Amongst 117 participants (median age: 45 years; 58.1% male), the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HCV antibodies was 8.5% each. Overall, 15.4% had either infection, whereas 0.9% were co-infected. Participants positive for HBsAg were significantly younger than those negative (median age: 33 years vs. 47 years; P = 0.016). Conclusion: The prevalence of HBV and HCV in the community exceeds national averages, revealing persistent gaps in awareness and screening even amongst privileged populations. Targeted education, screening, and access to antiviral therapy are essential to achieve the WHO elimination goals and promote equitable hepatitis control in Nigeria.
Abstract Background: Cancer treatment causes significant sexual dysfunction, yet this complication remains under-recognised in Nigerian oncology settings. This study assessed the prevalence, predictors and lived experiences of treatment-related sexual dysfunction among patients attending a tertiary cancer centre in Lagos, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A concurrent mixed-methods design was employed. The quantitative component enrolled 330 adult cancer patients (64.8% female; mean age: 54.2 years) receiving active treatment at the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority-Lagos University Teaching Hospital Cancer Centre between September 2024 and August 2025. Sexual dysfunction was measured with the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Sexual Health 22-item. Logistic regression identified treatment-specific predictors. For the qualitative component, in-depth interviews were conducted with 30 purposively selected participants until data saturation; transcripts underwent thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework. Results: Vaginal dryness or dyspareunia was reported by 72% of female participants, and erectile dysfunction by 68% of male participants. Radiotherapy was the strongest predictor of sexual dysfunction (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8–5.6; P < 0.001), followed by chemotherapy (adjusted OR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.1–3.4; P = 0.023). Qualitative analysis yielded three major themes: body image disturbance, partner communication breakdown and clinician–patient communication gaps. Conclusion: Sexual dysfunction is prevalent among Nigerian cancer patients and inadequately addressed in current practice. Culturally adapted, multidisciplinary interventions, including clinician training and structured sexual health screening, are urgently needed to integrate sexual health into cancer survivorship care in low-resource settings.
Abstract Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a comprehensive assessment of the physical, mental and social well-being of individuals. It can be impacted negatively by obesity. Some studies in Nigeria suggest a high prevalence of adolescent obesity and its attendant medical consequences. However, the effect of obesity on the HRQoL has not been explored amongst adolescents in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was carried out amongst 1010 secondary school students in Abeokuta using a multi-stage sampling method. The participants were categorised into obese and normal-weight groups based on their body mass index using the World Health Organisation charts. The HRQoL was assessed using a self-administered Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scales questionnaire. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare data obtained from the two groups. Results: The scores of the male obese participants in the social and school functioning domains were significantly higher than those of their normal-weight counterparts [85.0 (65.0–100.0) vs. 75.0 (55.0–100.0); P < 0.001] and [90.0 (75.0–100.0) vs. 85.0 (70.0–100.0); P = 0.010], respectively. Obese adolescents from high socio-economic status had higher scores than those in the normal-weight participants in the physical functioning domain [87.5 (75.0–100.0) vs. 81.3 (68.8–93.8); P = 0.044], respectively. Conclusions: This study demonstrates better HRQoL scores in the obese adolescents than in their normal-weight counterparts in Abeokuta.
Abstract Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) remains an important cause of postoperative morbidity after heart procedures and is associated with prolonged recovery and increased healthcare utilisation. Prospective data evaluating both determinants and early postoperative impacts within the same cohort are limited. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted on 271 consecutive patients who underwent heart procedures at Institutes of Cardiovascular Diseases, Madras Medical Mission, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, a tertiary cardiac centre. Procedures included surgical myocardial revascularisation, valvular intervention, congenital cardiac procedures and combined surgeries. SSI surveillance was performed for 30 days using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate predictors of infection. Postoperative outcomes, including reintubation, re-exploration, blood transfusion, hospital stay and in-hospital mortality, were compared between patients with and without SSI. Results: SSI developed in 24 patients, yielding an incidence of 8.9%. Severe ventricular dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction <35%) remained independently associated with infection following multivariable adjustment (adjusted odds ratio = 4.11, 95% confidence interval: 1.31–12.9, P = 0.015). Patients who developed SSI experienced longer hospitalisation and higher rates of postoperative interventions, including reintubation, re-exploration and blood transfusion. Mortality occurred more frequently in infected patients, although the number of events was limited. Conclusion: SSI is a clinically significant complication of cardiac surgery. Severe ventricular dysfunction was the strongest independent predictor of infection in this cohort study. Patients with severe ventricular dysfunction may benefit from closer perioperative surveillance and postoperative optimisation.
Abstract Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) exhibits significant rates of illness and death. Most of these deaths occur in less developed countries. PTB is associated with substantial weight loss, a characteristic detectable on chest radiographs. Objective: To evaluate the lateral chest wall thickness in patients with PTB compared to normal adult subjects. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted over a 6-month period at the Radiology Department of University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. One hundred and thirty-two adults who were bacteriologically proven to have PTB with normal body mass index were recruited as cases. The same number, age- and sex-matched healthy individuals with normal chest radiograph findings were recruited as controls. The radiographs of the participants were reviewed, and the lateral chest wall soft-tissue thickness was measured. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences software version 25.0. P value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant, and the results presented in tables. Results: There was a significant decrease in lateral soft-tissue thickness in cases compared to the controls. The mean total thickness was 8.43 ± 1.38 mm (mean ± SD) for the case as against the control with a mean thickness of 15.49 ± 3.49 mm (mean ± SD; P < 0.001). The mean thickness of the muscle and fat thickness were significantly lower in the cases than in the control ( P = 0.003 and P = 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: The lateral soft-tissue thickness is significantly reduced in patients with PTB as compared to healthy individuals; the same also applies to various soft-tissue components.
Abstract Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is an uncommon but potentially fatal cause of heart failure in late pregnancy or the puerperium, with more complex management in resource-limited settings and in patients who decline blood transfusion. A 35-year-old unbooked primigravida at 37 weeks, Jehovah’s Witness, presented with New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class IV heart failure: dyspnoea at rest, orthopnoea, productive cough and bilateral leg swelling. O 2 saturation was 86%–88% on room air, and haematocrit was 21%. Echocardiography confirmed PPCM with dilated left ventricle, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 30%, mild functional mitral regurgitation and mildly impaired right ventricular (RV) function (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion: 14 mm). After intensive care unit stabilisation with vasopressors, diuretics and oxygen, labour was induced under epidural analgesia to reduce sympathetic stress. She delivered vaginally a live neonate with good Apgar scores. Postpartum, she required intermittent continuous positive airway pressure and haemodynamic support. Owing to refusal of transfusion, blood conservation was achieved with erythropoietin, iron dextran and haematinics. At 6 months, LVEF > 50%, RV function normalised and she improved to NYHA Class I–II. Structured multidisciplinary care, neuraxial analgesia, non-invasive ventilation and patient blood management strategies can achieve favourable outcomes in severe PPCM complicated by significant anaemia and transfusion refusal, even in resource-limited settings.
Abstract Background: As populations age rapidly, addressing mobility challenges among the elderly is essential for promoting healthy ageing, independence and overall quality of life. Objectives: This study assessed mobility challenges among the elderly in the Anaocha Local Government Area (LGA), Anambra State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: After obtaining approval from the ethics and research committees at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, a cross-sectional study involving 206 elderly residents in Anaocha LGA, Anambra State, who met the eligibility criteria, was conducted. They were selected using a multistage sampling technique from 1 March to 1 August 2024. Data were collected via pre-tested, semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science software, version 25.0 (IBM Inc., Armonk, New York, United States). The level of significance for this study was set at p ≤ 0.05 Results: Most respondents were female (61.7%), married (97.1%), and Christian (96.6%), with more than half (143; 69.4%) experiencing varying degrees of mobility difficulties. A significant association between mobility difficulties and social participation was found ( χ 2 = 54.927, p = 0.000; P < 0.05). A statistical relationship between mobility difficulties and overall health status was also found ( χ 2 = 114.76, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings revealed the vulnerability in mobility among the elderly when variables such as social support, social participation and overall health status are considered. This suggests the need for targeted interventions.
Abstract Background: Neonatal mortality remains a major global health concern, with approximately 2.3 million deaths annually, predominantly in low- and middle-income countries. Infections such as neonatal sepsis and omphalitis are key contributors, with the umbilical cord stump serving as a major entry point for pathogens. Materials and Methods: This narrative review synthesised evidence from studies published between 2000 and 2025. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library. Eligible sources included randomised controlled trials, observational studies, systematic reviews and programme reports. Findings were analysed thematically. Results: Harmful traditional cord care practices, including the application of ash, dung and oils, remain widespread and increase infection risk. Evidence shows that 7.1% chlorhexidine digluconate significantly reduces omphalitis, neonatal sepsis and mortality, particularly in high-risk, community-based settings in South Asia, with more modest effects observed in Africa. Chlorhexidine is safe, cost-effective and widely accepted, although challenges such as supply constraints, limited training and cultural barriers affect implementation. Conclusion: Chlorhexidine is an effective, scalable intervention for improving neonatal outcomes in high-mortality settings. The World Health Organization recommends its use in such contexts, alongside dry cord care in low-risk environments. Strengthening health systems and community engagement is essential for maximising impact.
Abstract Mallampati class 0 is a rare airway variant where the epiglottis is visible during routine clinical oropharyngeal examination. Although linked to favourable laryngoscopy, it is rarely reported in Sub-Saharan Africa. To report Mallampati class 0 in a Nigerian woman. A 41-year-old female, scheduled for right modified radical mastectomy for invasive ductal carcinoma, presented for preoperative anaesthetic assessment. Routine clinical airway examination revealed adequate mouth opening, a thyromental distance greater than 6.5 cm, a sternomental distance greater than 12.5 cm and normal neck mobility. A visible epiglottis was noted on oral examination, consistent with Mallampati class 0 airway. Following induction of anaesthesia, direct laryngoscopy using a Macintosh size 3 blade revealed a Cormack–Lehane grade I view. Tracheal intubation with a 7.0-mm cuffed endotracheal tube was successful at the first attempt. Anaesthesia and surgery proceeded uneventfully, and the patient was extubated successfully. We report Mallampati class 0 airway, an uncommon anatomical airway variant associated with uncomplicated tracheal intubation in a Nigerian patient. Nevertheless, comprehensive airway assessment and difficult airway preparedness remain essential.
Abstract Vulvar fibroma is a rare and benign tumour in women of the reproductive age group. A 48-year-old multiparous housewife presented in the gynaecological unit of Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital with a painless vulvar and buttock swelling of 5 years’ duration, which had progressively increased in size. It was associated with discomfort after a long walk or during sexual intercourse. On examination, there was a firm, non-tender mass involving the right vulva and measuring 12 cm by 10 cm. The uterus was of normal size, and the adnexa were normal. She underwent an excision biopsy under saddle block, and the histology confirmed fibroma of the vulva. She had an uneventful postoperative period, and the wound healed well. A high index of suspicion is required to avoid missing the diagnosis of this rare condition.
Abstract Introduction: Workplace violence occurs in all work settings, but some sectors are more affected than others. The worst affected are workers who render service to the public, especially in healthcare. The consequences of violence against healthcare workers can be severe, including physical harm, emotional trauma, decreased job satisfaction and increased turnover rates. Nigeria’s healthcare system faces numerous challenges, including inadequate funding, insufficient staffing and poor infrastructure. These challenges can contribute to a stressful work environment, increasing the risk of violence against healthcare workers. Aim: To ascertain the pattern of workplace violence and its impact on the victims. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in 2025 in two publicly owned teaching hospitals in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Results: The number of research participants was 649. Proportionate allocation was used to determine the number of healthcare workers to be recruited. There were more persons aged 20–29 years, 35.0%, with 63.0% females. The most common form of violence was verbal, 66.4%, and the least was sexual harassment, 1.0%. Among victims of physical assault, 5.5% were attacked with a weapon, and 95.9% were not injured. The incident had a psychological impact on the victim. The impact of the incident was anger (59.0%), fear (11.9%), reduced job morale (8.5%), reduced job satisfaction (4.8%) while 15.7% reported no impact. Conclusion: Verbal abuse is the most common form of workplace violence, whereas most healthcare professionals were not sexually harassed. The incident negatively affected the victims and their jobs.
Abstract Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a non-invasive marker of subclinical atherosclerosis and a useful tool for cardiovascular risk assessment. This study investigated the correlates of CIMT among CKD patients at Jos University Teaching Hospital. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 189 CKD patients and 126 age- and sex-matched controls. Eligible participants were recruited consecutively. Clinical evaluation, laboratory investigations and CIMT measurements were performed. Data were analysed using Epi Info version 7, with P value < 0.05 considered significant Results: Mean age was similar among CKD patients and controls (47.02 ± 13.63 vs 47.66 ± 13.84 years; P = 0.684). Mean CIMT was significantly higher in CKD patients than among controls (0.89 ± 0.20 vs 0.50 ± 0.01 mm; P < 0.001). Increased CIMT was observed in 28.6% of CKD patients, while 10.1% had atheromatous plaques. Independent correlates of increased CIMT included advancing age, diabetes, systolic and diastolic hypertension, increased waist circumference in males, increased urine protein creatinine ratio, reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate, low haemoglobin, elevated serum phosphate, increased calcium–phosphate product, elevated total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, increased cardiothoracic ratio and higher uric acid levels. Conclusion: Increased CIMT is common in CKD and associated with multiple cardiovascular risk factors. CIMT is a valuable tool for early detection of subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk stratification.
Abstract Background: Cervical cancer is a major health issue in low- and middle-income countries, mainly caused by persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Prevention depends on HPV vaccination and screening, but awareness of HPV and its vaccine is often low. This study evaluated women’s awareness of HPV, knowledge of the vaccine and their willingness to vaccinate their daughters after they undergo cervical screening. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using telephone interviews among women who had undergone cervical cytology screening within the previous 3 years. Participants were identified from a screening clinic register. Data on the awareness of HPV infection, awareness of HPV vaccination and willingness to accept vaccination for daughters were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 748 women participated (response rate: 87.9%). The awareness of HPV infection was very low (2.0%), and only 15.0% had heard of the HPV vaccine. However, 93.7% were willing to vaccinate their daughters if the vaccine was available. Educational status ( χ 2 (3) = 4.52, P = 0.034) and awareness of the HPV vaccine ( χ 2 (1) = 8.74, P = 0.003) were significantly associated with willingness to vaccinate, while marital status ( χ 2 (3) = 7.85, P = 0.049) showed marginal significance. Age, parity and awareness of HPV infection were not significantly associated with willingness. Conclusion: Despite the high willingness to vaccinate daughters, the awareness of HPV infection and vaccination remains very low; improving public education and integrating HPV information into screening services could boost vaccine uptake and cervical cancer prevention.
Abstract Sturge–Weber syndrome type I (SWS-I) is the predominant variant of SWS, characterised by leptomeningeal angiomatosis, port-wine stain (PWS), cortical calcifications and occasionally ophthalmological symptoms. This index case is that of a 29-year-old female with a facial PWS who has had recurrent generalised tonic–clonic seizures. She has also had stroke-like symptoms presenting as left hemiparesis. These symptoms have been present since childhood; she never sought hospital treatment because her family attributed her ailment to a ‘spiritual attack’, meaning spiritual forces influenced her bodily manifestations. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain demonstrated distinctive features of right cerebral hemiatrophy, right gyriform calcifications, ipsilateral choroid plexus enlargement, leptomeningeal enhancement and asymmetrically enlarged frontal sinus. These distinctive radiological and clinical findings recently led to the diagnosis of SWS-I. She is on anticonvulsant medications, and her seizures are now controlled. This case underscores the delayed hospital presentation due to inadequate awareness, thus leading to a delayed diagnosis. It also emphasises the essential significance of neuroimaging in identifying SWS-I. Identifying distinct radiological patterns is crucial for prompt diagnosis, effective therapy and follow-up.
Abstract Background: Acute appendicitis is mainly a clinical diagnosis, and a delay in diagnosis could result in serious complications with attendant morbidity and mortality that could be as high as 25%. This study aims to compare the efficacy of two appendicitis scoring systems: the modified Alvarado and Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis (RIPASA) in reducing negative appendectomy rate in patients with acute appendicitis. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective comparative study that was carried out at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria, on 48 patients from August 2018 to May 2019. Patients aged 16 years and above with suspected acute appendicitis who satisfied the inclusion criteria and, after obtaining their informed consent, were recruited for this study. A proforma was used to collect data. Results: A total of 48 patients had open appendectomy: 21 males (43.8%) and 27 females (56.2%). The age range was 18–46 years with a mean age of 26.9 years. Out of the 48 patients, 44 (91.7%) had acute appendicitis and 4 (8.3%) had a normal appendix at histology. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value for the two scoring tools were, 52.1%, 50.0%, 92.6% and 9.5% for modified Alvarado’s score (MAS) and 87.5%, 0.0%, 91.3% and 0.0% for RIPASA respectively. Conclusion: In this study of an African population with suspected uncomplicated acute appendicitis, the RIPASA score demonstrated higher sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy but lower specificity compared with the MAS. Overall, neither scoring tool effectively reduced the rate of negative appendectomies.
Abstract Background: Post-void residual (PVR) volume is a common finding in patients with prostate enlargement, and accurate assessment of the PVR volume by a non-invasive technique forms an important first-line investigation, with a high diagnostic value than the invasive catheterisation technique. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted within 6 months in 400 patients with prostatic enlargement within the age range of 45–70 years in the Radiology Department of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria. A greyscale ultrasound scanner (DC 8) with 3.5-MHZ curvilinear transducer was used for measurement. PVR was calculated automatically by measuring the three dimensions of the urinary bladder: longitudinal (L), transverse (T) and anteroposterior (H) dimensions. Under aseptic conditions, a urethral catheter was passed to drain the PVR and measure it using a calibrated measuring cylinder. The last scan was done to ensure that the PVR urine was totally drained and measured. The collected data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25.0. P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant, and results are presented in tables and figures. Results: The ranges of the PVR volume determined by the US and catheterisation techniques were 35–430 mL and 47–450 mL, respectively. The mean PVR by US was 168.48 ± 102.28 Ml, and by catheterisation, it was 176.23 ± 102.24 mL., Conclusion: US estimation of PVR is as good as the catheterisation technique in estimation of PVR volume in a patient with prostate enlargement.
Abstract Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) can lead to reduced quality of life among postmenopausal women. It is a condition in which the supporting structure of the pelvic floor of a woman becomes dysfunctional. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study of all POP cases managed at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, a tertiary care hospital in Southeastern Nigeria from January 2019 to December 2023. The case files of the women who were diagnosed with POP were obtained from the Medical Records Department of the hospital based on data extracted from the Gynaecology Clinic and Theatre Register. Data were compiled using Microsoft Excel and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26. Descriptive statistics were conducted. Results: During the study, 3100 gynaecological cases presented at the hospital and 60 POP cases were seen, giving a prevalence of 1.94%. The mean age of women with POP was 56 ± 14.43 years, and median parity was 5 (2–7). The majority of the patients were postmenopausal (82.9%). The commonest presenting complaint was protrusion through the vagina (54.3%), while 25.7% of patients presented with protrusion through the vagina as well as urinary symptoms. Second-degree (34.3%) and third-degree (42.9%) POP were commonly diagnosed. The most common risk factor was grand-multiparity (57.1%). Vaginal hysterectomy and pelvic floor repair (57.1%) were the most common procedures performed. Conclusion: The prevalence of POP among women from this study was 1.93%. Grand-multiparity is a common risk factor identified in our centre.
Abstract Background: Gastric cancer represents a significant global health challenge, ranking as the fifth most common malignancy and third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. While traditionally considered rare in sub-Saharan Africa, emerging evidence suggests increasing incidence rates across the continent. Objective: To analyse the clinicopathological characteristics, management approaches and outcomes of gastric cancer patients at a tertiary healthcare facility in Northwestern Nigeria over 10 years. Methodology: This retrospective and cohort study reviewed the medical records of 110 histologically confirmed gastric cancer patients managed at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital from January 2014 to December 2023. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, histopathology, staging, treatment modalities and outcomes were analysed using the SPSS software version 22. Binary logistic regression identified the independent predictors of mortality. Results: The study included 110 patients (mean age 55 ± 14.65 years; 63% male). The majority (86%) presented with stage III disease, while 9% had stage IV and 5% had stage II disease. The gastric body and antrum were equally affected (40% each). Adenocarcinoma was the predominant histological type (87%). The risk factors were unidentifiable in 40% of patients. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was administered to 68% of patients, while 42% received palliative chemotherapy. Surgical interventions included gastrectomy (21%), gastrojejunostomy (29%) and feeding jejunostomy (8%). The overall mortality rate was 50%, with hospital stay duration ranging from 3 to 120 days. Conclusion: Gastric cancer incidence appears to be rising in Northwestern Nigeria, with most patients presenting at advanced stages. The high mortality rate underscores the need for improved early detection strategies and comprehensive cancer care programs in the resource-limited settings.
Background: The placenta plays a vital role in sustaining the developing foetus. Ultrasound measurement of placental thickness may correlate with birth weight and neonatal outcomes. Adverse neonatal outcomes may be seen when the placenta is abnormally thick or thin. There is a need to evaluate the correlation of placental thickness with birth weight and neonatal outcomes in order to institute appropriate measures to forestall untoward effects on the foetus. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between placental thickness at the early and late third trimester and neonatal outcomes. Materials and Methods: This prospective study included 187 participants to assess the relationship between ultrasound measurement of placental thickness at 28–30 weeks and 36–38 weeks of gestation and followed-up for assessment of neonatal outcomes. Participants were recruited by the consecutive sampling method. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 24. Categorical variables were presented as numbers and percentages, as well as means and standard deviations for continuous variables. Correlations of variables were calculated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r). A P value of ≤0.05 was statistically significant. Results: Out of the 187 participants, 57.2% of the participants were multipara. The incidence of thick placenta was 5.4%. At 28–30 weeks, 82% of the placentae were of normal thickness and 80% were of normal thickness at 36–38 weeks. There was a positive correlation between placental thickness and birth weight, which was statistically significant, but there was no relationship with other neonatal outcome measures. Conclusion: Ultrasound measurement of placental thickness correlates well with low birth weight and adverse neonatal outcomes.
