Background Breast cancer is a major health burden in Nigeria, particularly in Northwestern Nigeria, where it accounts for approximately 25% of all female cancer diagnoses. Beyond its physical effects, breast cancer is associated with substantial psychological distress—including depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)—which negatively impacts quality of life, treatment adherence, and overall outcomes. Social support plays a protective role by buffering psychological distress; however, its influence among breast cancer patients in Northwestern Nigeria remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess the impact of social support on depression and GAD among women with breast cancer in this region. Materials and Methods This cross-sectional study involved 240 female breast cancer patients attending various oncology clinics. Depression and GAD were evaluated using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI), while social support was assessed with the Oslo Social Support Scale (OSSS-3). Descriptive statistics were computed, and associations between social support, depression, and GAD were evaluated using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests. Variables with significant bivariate associations were entered into a binary logistic regression model to identify independent predictors. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Participants with poor social support experienced significantly higher rates of depression (p = 0.012) and GAD (p = 0.04). Logistic regression analysis further demonstrated that poor social support was an independent predictor of both conditions, significantly increasing the likelihood of depression and GAD among breast cancer patients. Conclusion Poor social support is strongly associated with increased rates of depression and GAD among women with breast cancer in Northwestern Nigeria. Strengthening social support systems may serve as an important intervention to improve the psychological well-being and overall treatment outcomes of this population.
Context Sickle Cell Anaemia (SCA) is a highly variable disease in which the steady state is periodically interrupted by crises. Understanding factors associated with the steady state can help early diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of SCA patients, especially in resource-poor settings. Aim To identify haematological and biochemical factors associated with steady state in adult SCA patients. Settings and Design A descriptive cross-sectional study involving adult SCA patients in steady state at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH). Materials and Methods Clinical information was obtained using structured questionnaires and case files. Haematological parameters: Haematocrit White blood cell (WBC) count Platelet count Foetal haemoglobin (HbF) Biochemical parameters: Total bilirubin Direct bilirubin Indirect bilirubin Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Significance level: P < 0.05. Results Sample size: 100 SCA patients in steady state Age range: 18–43 years Gender distribution: 78 females Male-to-female ratio: 1:3.5 Mean age at diagnosis: 45 months Mean Haematological Values Haematocrit: 23.4 ± 4.5% WBC: 12.1 ± 3.6 × 10⁹/L Platelet count: 366.1 ± 131 × 10⁹/L HbF: 7.5 ± 4.3% Mean Biochemical Values Total bilirubin: 23.7 ± 18.7 µmol/L Direct bilirubin: 9.7 ± 11.3 µmol/L Indirect bilirubin: 14.0 ± 12.2 µmol/L AST: 44.9 ± 19.0 U/L ALT: 28.8 ± 11.6 U/L Significant Differences Only HbF showed significant gender differences (p = 0.003). Conclusion The study identified the following as factors associated with steady state in SCA patients: Moderate anaemia Elevated WBC and platelet counts Raised total bilirubin Increased AST and ALT Elevated HbF Clinicians should consider these findings when evaluating and managing SCA patients.
Background Hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity globally, particularly in Africa. Despite clinic attendance and treatment, many hypertensive patients experience suboptimal blood pressure (BP) control. In Nigeria, hypertension is associated with high rates of multi-organ complications. Understanding the profiles of patients with uncontrolled hypertension is crucial for optimizing management strategies. Objective To describe the socio-demographic and clinical profile of hypertensive outpatients with uncontrolled blood pressure despite regular follow-up and instituted treatment. Methods A consecutive sampling of 78 registered hypertensive patients was conducted. Inclusion criteria were: Diagnosed with hypertension ≥6 months prior to recruitment Clinic BP ≥140/90 mmHg on at least two consecutive visits Participants were recruited as part of an ongoing interventional study. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire that incorporated the Hillbone Compliance to High Blood Pressure Scale. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were analyzed. Results Gender distribution: 66.7% female (n = 52), 33.3% male (n = 26) Mean age: 54.3 ± 11.48 years Education: 62.3% had post-secondary education, 6.5% had no formal education Marital status: 80% married Income: Most earned above the Nigerian minimum wage Mean initial BP: 143.92/89.21 mmHg (SBP range: 93–185, DBP range: 61.5–136) Obesity: 40.3% of respondents Lifestyle: Low prevalence of alcohol and tobacco use Medication adherence: 71.4% adherent A significant positive correlation was observed between poorer medication adherence and higher diastolic blood pressure (R = 2.57, p = 0.024). Conclusion Even patients with good medication adherence may exhibit suboptimal BP control. Physicians should recognize the patterns of uncontrolled hypertension regardless of favorable sociodemographic or clinical profiles and implement appropriate interventions to optimize management.
Background Assessment of surgical outcomes following unilateral cleft lip repair may be incomplete without comparison with matched non-cleft controls from the same ethno-racial group, as nasal morphology varies across populations. Evaluating nasolabial symmetry in this context provides a more accurate understanding of reconstructive success. Aim To compare the nasolabial symmetry of children with repaired unilateral complete cleft lip—with or without palate involvement—with matched non-cleft controls in Kano, Nigeria. Methods This prospective comparative study assessed nasolabial symmetry in children who had undergone repair of a unilateral complete cleft lip and matched non-cleft children. Nasal parameters measured included nostril width, nostril height, and alar base width. Labial parameters included vertical lip height, vertical philtral height, horizontal lip length, and vermilion height. Data were analyzed using the independent sample t-test. Results Comparison between cleft and non-cleft participants showed that only vermilion height demonstrated no statistically significant difference between the groups (p = 0.184, p = 0.790). All other nasal and labial parameters differed significantly, indicating persistent asymmetry despite surgical repair. Conclusion Following surgical repair of unilateral complete cleft lip in Kano, notable differences remain in several nasolabial parameters when compared with non-cleft peers. Cleft surgeons are encouraged to consider ethnic and regional norms of facial morphology during surgical planning to optimize aesthetic outcomes.
Context Divorce is one of the recognized ways of dissolving marriages. Evidence from existing literature—predominantly from Western settings—indicates that divorced women experience higher rates of psychiatric illnesses compared to their married counterparts. However, the mental health status of divorced women remains under-researched in many low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. This study examined the prevalence and pattern of psychiatric illnesses among divorced women in Kano, Northwestern Nigeria. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among divorced and married women in Kano. The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) was used to screen for mental ill health. Participants who scored ≥4 on the GHQ-12, as well as 10% of those who scored <4, subsequently underwent assessment using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI 6.0.0). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Chi-square test was used to determine associations between marital status and psychiatric diagnoses. Results A total of 300 women aged 15–60 years participated (150 divorced, 150 married). Psychiatric illness was significantly more prevalent among divorced women (58.7%) than married women (34.7%), p < 0.001, with an odds ratio of 2.7 (1.7–4.3). Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) was the most common diagnosis—25.3% among divorced women and 18.0% among married women—followed by depression (23.3% vs. 10.7%, respectively). Comorbid GAD with depression was also more frequent among divorced women (10.0%) compared to married women (6.0%) (p < 0.001). Conclusion Psychiatric illnesses were significantly more common among divorced women than married women in Kano. GAD was the most prevalent diagnosis, followed by depression and comorbid GAD with depression. Public health interventions are needed to address the mental health needs of divorced women, with emphasis on screening, early diagnosis, and psychosocial support.
Context Oral precancerous conditions and oral cancer remain major public health concerns for both the general population and healthcare professionals. Early diagnosis of oral cancer significantly improves survival outcomes. Aim To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding oral cancer and oral premalignant conditions among the general population using a structured questionnaire. Materials and Methods A pre-tested, structured 22-item questionnaire was administered to 320 participants to evaluate their KAP related to oral premalignant conditions. Data collected were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Results Out of 326 individuals approached, 320 completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 97.5%. Dental problems post-COVID-19 were reported by 10.6% of participants. Approximately 136 (42.5%) respondents were aware of the causes of oral cancer, and 205 (64%) reported that regular dental check-ups aid in early detection. Overall, participants demonstrated average to good knowledge of oral precancerous conditions, with statistically significant knowledge levels (P < 0.05). A large majority (84%) knew that dentists can diagnose oral cancer. Additionally, 268 (83.8%) participants recognized that oral screening camps help detect precancerous or early-stage oral cancer. About 82.5% expressed interest in learning about oral cancer risk factors, while only 8.7% had attended an oral health screening camp or program. Conclusion Participants in this study exhibited average to good levels of knowledge, awareness, and attitude regarding oral precancerous conditions. Early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve quality of life. Efforts should be intensified to promote awareness and provide educational initiatives on oral precancerous conditions among the general public.
Context:Clear aligner therapy (CAT) is a rapidly growing, patient-friendly, and compliance-oriented orthodontic modality. Its adoption in Nigeria remains limited, primarily due to higher costs compared to conventional fixed orthodontic treatments. Aims:To assess Nigerian dentists’ knowledge regarding the use and applications of CAT in orthodontic practice. Settings and Design:A cross-sectional analytical study conducted among dentists of various specialties and cadres practicing across all regions of Nigeria. Materials and Methods:Data were collected via a pretested, self-administered online questionnaire (Google Form) consisting of yes/no and Likert-scale items. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21. Categorical data were summarized as frequencies and percentages, while numerical data were presented as means ± standard deviations. Group differences were evaluated using the Kruskal-Wallis test with post hoc comparisons, associations were assessed using Spearman’s rank correlation, and predictors of knowledge were identified via binary logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results:A total of 161 dentists from various tertiary health centers participated, with a mean age of 33.12 ± 4.89 years. Most respondents were aged 31–40 years (62.7%) and male (70.0%). The majority were registrars (54.0%), while dental officers were the least represented (9.9%). Participants included oral surgeons (23.6%), general practitioners (14.3%), and other dental specialties. Half of the respondents (50.9%) practiced in the midwestern region, while the eastern region was least represented (9.9%). Using a baseline knowledge score of 24.67 from orthodontic senior registrars, only 21.1% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of CAT. Knowledge scores varied significantly by age (p = 0.024), rank (p = 0.036), specialty (p = 0.001), and years of experience (p = 0.003). Binary logistic regression identified specialty as the only significant predictor of knowledge (p = 0.005), with orthodontic residents having significantly higher knowledge than other residents. Conclusion:Despite its global popularity, knowledge and use of CAT among Nigerian dentists remain limited. Integrating CAT into dental curricula, workshops, and research initiatives is critical to enhance awareness, improve adoption, and align orthodontic practices in Nigeria with international standards.
Context:The success of orthodontic miniscrews is influenced by multiple factors, among which post-insertion oral hygiene plays a critical role in maintaining peri-implant health and ensuring implant stability. Aims:To evaluate the effect of three different oral hygiene practices on the success of orthodontic miniscrews placed for en-masse anterior retraction following first premolar extractions in adult patients. Setting and Design:A prospective study conducted in a tertiary hospital to assess the effectiveness of three oral hygiene regimens among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic appliance therapy. Materials and Methods:Participants were randomly assigned to one of three oral hygiene protocols for 12 weeks: Twice-daily tooth brushing Twice-daily tooth brushing plus twice-daily warm saline mouth rinse Twice-daily tooth brushing plus twice-daily 0.12% chlorhexidine mouth rinse Gingival inflammation and miniscrew mobility were assessed at day 7, week 4, week 8, and week 12 post-insertion. Statistical analyses were performed using the Chi-square test, with significance set at p < 0.05 and confidence level at 95%. Results:A total of 60 miniscrews were placed in 18 participants, divided into three groups of six participants each based on the assigned oral hygiene practice. Significant differences in peri-implant gingival inflammation were observed across groups at day 7 (p = 0.010), week 4 (p = 0.010), and week 12 (p = 0.010) post-insertion. Conclusion:Adjunctive use of warm saline or chlorhexidine mouth rinses did not provide a significant additional benefit in peri-implant stability or miniscrew success when compared to routine tooth brushing alone.
Context Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) involves multiple sequences and relatively long acquisition times. These factors can affect image quality and present challenges that necessitate continuous evaluation and optimisation to ensure diagnostic efficiency. Aim To assess the image quality and average acquisition time of adult brain MRI sequences on a 1.5T scanner. Methods This prospective study evaluated adult brain MRI images of consenting patients at a local MRI center in Nigeria.The assessment focused on the following axial sequences: T1-weighted (T1W) T2-weighted (T2W) Fluid Attenuation Inversion Recovery (FLAIR) Image Quality Evaluation: Quantitative: Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) Qualitative: Visual Grading Analysis (VGA) performed by four observers with over 5 years of experience The acquisition time for each sequence was recorded. Data were analyzed using VGA and SPSS version 25. Results A total of 100 adult brain MRI examinations were analyzed. Quantitative Findings T1W demonstrated the highest SNR for: Grey matter: 51.58 White matter: 40.16 T2W produced the highest CNR: 9.23 FLAIR displayed the lowest SNR and CNR among the evaluated sequences. Qualitative Findings T2W achieved the highest VGA score: 4.75 FLAIR was rated lowest in qualitative image quality. Acquisition Time T1W had the longest scan time: 5 minutes 38 seconds T2W had the shortest acquisition time: 2 minutes 43 seconds Conclusion T2-weighted sequences demonstrated superior contrast-to-noise ratio and visual grading scores compared to T1W and FLAIR, suggesting better overall diagnostic image quality. While T1W achieved the highest SNR, its relatively long acquisition time highlights the need for optimisation. FLAIR performed poorest in both qualitative and quantitative parameters, indicating an area for potential protocol improvement.
Context Haematological malignancies remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Understanding their local distribution is essential for effective planning, diagnosis, and management. This study evaluated the pattern of haematological malignancies among adult patients in a major tertiary hospital in Kano, Nigeria. Aim To retrospectively analyze the distribution of haematological malignancies among adult patients presenting to Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital (MMSH), Kano, Nigeria, between 2017 and 2020. Setting and Design A retrospective review of hospital records of 33 patients aged 13 years and above diagnosed with haematological malignancies at MMSH from November 2017 to December 2020. Materials and Methods Data extracted from case records included: Sociodemographic information Clinical presentation Type of haematological malignancy Full blood count parameters at presentation Statistical Analysis Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 (Windows).Chi-square test was used to assess associations between categorical variables.Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results Gender distribution: 57% males; male-to-female ratio 1.3:1 Mean age: 34.6 ± 14.9 years Types of haematological malignancies: Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML): 45% (n = 15) Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL): 24.2% Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML): 12.1% Hodgkin’s lymphoma: 12.1% Clinical presentation: Splenomegaly: 60.6% Lymph node enlargement: 24.2% History of blood transfusion: 21.2% Laboratory findings at presentation: Mean haemoglobin: 8.4 ± 2.4 g/dl Median white cell count: 133.5 × 10⁹/L (IQR: 16.7–269.6) Median platelet count: 258 × 10⁹/L (IQR: 81–411.5) Conclusion Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) was the most common haematological malignancy among adult patients presenting to MMSH, Kano, during the study period. These findings highlight the need for improved diagnostic capacity and early detection strategies for haematological cancers in the region.
Context Population-specific characteristics play a crucial role in shaping the behavior of human genotypes and phenotypes. Examining genetic relationships between populations provides insight into patterns of genetic change over time. Such comparisons help identify factors that may have influenced the evolution of specific traits, genotypes, and the overall genetic diversity of populations. Despite Nigeria’s ethnic diversity, the genetic diversity of these groups remains largely undefined. Short tandem repeat (STR) markers offer a powerful tool for characterizing such diversity. Aims To determine the genetic relationships between the Igbo, Ibibio, Yoruba, Tiv, and Hausa ethnic groups using nine autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) DNA markers. Settings and Design An observational study involving 250 consenting participants from five major Nigerian ethnic groups. Methods and Materials Participants of Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, Ibibio, and Tiv ethnic origin were randomly selected from their native communities across Nigeria. DNA Extraction: Performed on whole blood using commercial DNA extraction kits. STR Analysis: Nine autosomal STR loci were amplified using PCR and analyzed via electrophoresis. Allele Interpretation: Allele types and sizes were read, recorded, and scored for each individual across all loci. Statistical Analysis Allele frequencies, population pairwise genetic distances (FST and RST), analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA), and principal component analysis (PCA) were computed using GenAlEx v6.502. Results Fixation index (FST) values ranged from 0.001 to 0.500 across the populations. AMOVA revealed that 99.98% of total genetic variation occurred within individuals, while only 0.10% occurred among populations. PCA identified four heterogeneous genetic clusters, with the first three axes accounting for 32.86% of genetic variation. Conclusions Genetic relationships among the Igbo, Ibibio, Yoruba, Tiv, and Hausa closely mirrored their linguistic classifications. This suggests that language may have influenced historical patterns of interaction, gene flow, and ultimately the genetic structure of these populations.
Context:Thyroid lesions are highly prevalent, particularly among individuals with abnormal thyroid function tests. Their incidence increases with age and occurs more commonly in females. Ultrasound is an excellent imaging modality for characterizing thyroid lesions and assessing the risk of malignancy using the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TIRADS). Aim:To evaluate the sonographic characteristics of thyroid lesions in patients with abnormal thyroid function tests at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano, Nigeria. Methods:This cross-sectional comparative study included patients with recent abnormal thyroid function tests. Thyroid parenchyma was evaluated and classified according to the TIRADS system. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 for Windows. Results:A total of 270 participants were enrolled, comprising 45 males (16.7%) and 225 females (83.3%). The modal age group was 31–40 years. There was a statistically significant difference between the mean ages of males and females (p ≤ 0.05). Most participants (73%) had thyromegaly, while 27% had normal thyroid gland size. Hyperthyroidism was present in 218 participants (80.7%), and 52 (19.3%) had hypothyroidism. Among hyperthyroid patients, 161 (73.7%) were classified as TIRADS 2, followed by 47 (21.7%) as TIRADS 3. Among hypothyroid patients, 29 (55.8%) were TIRADS 2, and 19 (36.5%) were TIRADS 1. Differences in TIRADS categories between hyperthyroid and hypothyroid patients were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion:Thyroid lesions are more common in females, and the majority of participants had thyromegaly. TIRADS 2 was the most frequent category in both hyperthyroid and hypothyroid patients.
Background Advances in the management of sickle cell anemia (SCA) have significantly improved patient survival. However, as individuals with SCA live longer, chronic complications increasingly emerge. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is now recognized as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in adult SCA patients. Understanding the burden and correlates of PH is essential for early detection and intervention. Aim To determine the prevalence of pulmonary hypertension and its clinical and laboratory correlates among adult SCA patients in Kano, North-Western Nigeria. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 211 adults aged ≥16 years with confirmed SCA. Data collection: Demographic and clinical information were obtained using a structured questionnaire and review of clinical records. Laboratory evaluation: Complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical markers of hemolysis were measured using standard procedures. Assessment of PH: Tricuspid regurgitant velocity (TRV) was measured using 2D echocardiography. PH was defined as TRV ≥ 2.5 m/sec. Data analysis: SPSS Version 21.0 was used, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results The prevalence of PH in this SCA cohort was 31.8%. Patients with PH were: Significantly older (p = 0.036) Had more blood transfusions (X² = 7, p = 0.003) Had fewer hospitalizations (X² = 8.8, p = 0.001) Experienced fewer vaso-occlusive crises (VOC) (X² = 6.7, p = 0.000) Had higher rates of priapism (X² = 10, p = 0.036) Positive correlations with PH: Platelet count (r = 0.416) Reticulocyte count (r = 0.451) Serum LDH (r = 0.682) Serum bilirubin (r = 0.810) Negative correlations with PH: Hemoglobin level (r = –0.661) Packed cell volume (PCV) (r = –0.573) Conclusion Pulmonary hypertension is common among adults with sickle cell anemia in this setting and is significantly associated with: Higher frequency of blood transfusions Lower frequency of painful crises Elevated markers of hemolysis (LDH and bilirubin) Routine screening for PH using echocardiography and early intervention is essential to reduce morbidity, prevent early mortality, and improve overall quality of life in patients with SCA.
Context:There is a global rise in the prevalence of oral diseases, increasing the need for oral hygiene methods that are safe, effective, economical, and easily accessible. Plant-derived chewing sticks have long been used as traditional oral hygiene tools. Salvadora persica, commonly known as Miswak, is the most widely used plant for this purpose. Aim:To evaluate the efficacy of Miswak as an adjunct to tooth brushing in improving gingival health among male patients in Qassim. Materials and Methodology:This case–control clinical study was conducted at Qassim University Medical City Dental Hospital, Al-Rass, involving 30 male patients. Participants used tooth brushing alone for 14 days, followed by 14 days of tooth brushing combined with Miswak use. Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI) scores were recorded at baseline (T0) and after each intervention period. Results:There was a statistically significant reduction in Plaque Index between baseline and the tooth brushing plus Miswak period (p = 0.01214). A similar significant improvement was observed in Gingival Index scores (p = 0.011062813). Post-hoc t-test analysis showed a statistically significant difference in Plaque Index scores between T0 and the TB+M 14-day period (two-tailed p = 0.004525). Gingival Index scores also showed a statistically significant improvement between T0 and TB+M 14 days (two-tailed p = 0.00553982). Conclusion:Within the limitations of this study, the combination of tooth brushing and Miswak significantly improves plaque control and gingival health.
Context Dysmenorrhea is a common public health problem among adolescent females and can negatively affect school performance and daily activities. Aim To determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and identify predictors of its impact on school activities among high school students in Ogbomoso, South-West Nigeria. Materials and Methods A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. Using a multistage stratified sampling technique, 450 participants were recruited. Data were collected via pretested semi-structured self-administered questionnaires. Statistical Analysis:Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. Chi-square tests were applied for categorical variables, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of dysmenorrhea impact. Results Prevalence: Dysmenorrhea was reported in 72.4% of respondents. Significant predictors of negative impact on school activities: Ethnicity: Yoruba students were more likely to be affected (AOR = 8.637; 95% CI: 1.357–54.986; p = 0.022) Regular menstrual cycle: Those with regular cycles were less likely to experience negative impacts (AOR = 0.055; 95% CI: 0.006–0.500; p = 0.010) Vomiting: Reduced likelihood of negative impact among those without vomiting (AOR = 0.103; 95% CI: 0.020–0.522; p = 0.006) Severity of abdominal pain: Moderate pain (AOR = 2.737; 95% CI: 1.050–7.138; p = 0.039) and severe pain (AOR = 6.351; 95% CI: 2.148–18.772; p = 0.001) increased the likelihood of negative impact Students of Yoruba ethnicity and those with moderate or severe abdominal pain were more likely to experience school disruption, while regular menstrual cycles and absence of vomiting were protective. Conclusion Dysmenorrhea affects over two-thirds of high school students in Ogbomoso. Ethnicity, menstrual regularity, severity of abdominal pain, and vomiting are key predictors of its impact on school activities. Incorporating comprehensive menstrual health education programs into school curricula may help improve academic performance and quality of life for female students.
Context Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is a genetic disorder characterized by chronic haemolysis, vaso-occlusion, and multisystem complications. Disturbances in mineral metabolism—particularly calcium and magnesium—have been linked to the pathophysiology of SCA through effects on vascular function, oxidative stress, red cell dehydration, and bone health. Understanding these mineral alterations may provide insights into disease severity and crisis triggers. Aim To evaluate serum calcium, magnesium, and the calcium-to-magnesium ratio in adult SCA patients during steady state and vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC), compared with healthy HbAA controls, and to explore the clinical implications of these biochemical changes. Settings and Design A cross-sectional comparative study involving 180 adult participants, consisting of: 60 SCA patients in steady state 60 SCA patients during vaso-occlusive crisis 60 age- and sex-matched apparently healthy HbAA controls Methods and Materials Demographic and clinical data were obtained from consenting participants who met the inclusion criteria. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis. Serum calcium and magnesium were measured using a Selectra Chemistry Auto-Analyzer. The calcium-to-magnesium ratio was computed for each participant. Statistical Analysis Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 25. One-way ANOVA was used to compare biochemical parameters across study groups. Pearson’s correlation analysis assessed relationships between variables. ROC curve analysis evaluated the discriminatory power of calcium, magnesium, and their ratio. Results Serum calcium and magnesium levels were significantly reduced in SCA patients compared to HbAA controls (p < 0.001). The lowest levels of both minerals were recorded in patients experiencing vaso-occlusive crisis. The calcium-to-magnesium ratio was significantly elevated during VOC (p < 0.001), indicating a mineral imbalance that may worsen disease pathophysiology. ROC analysis showed that calcium, magnesium, and particularly the Ca/Mg ratio demonstrated strong discriminatory ability for identifying crisis states in SCA. Conclusion SCA patients exhibit marked abnormalities in calcium and magnesium homeostasis, with further deterioration during vaso-occlusive crises. The elevated calcium-to-magnesium ratio during crisis may serve as a potential biochemical marker for disease severity and crisis prediction. Routine evaluation of these minerals may improve clinical monitoring, early intervention, and overall patient management.
Context Sickle cell disease (SCD) results in abnormal hemoglobin, leading to complications such as vaso-occlusive crises, chronic anemia, and organ damage. One significant yet often underreported complication is sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). SNHL in SCD frequently begins with subtle elevation in hearing thresholds and can progress to permanent hearing impairment. This study compares the hearing thresholds of children and adolescents with SCD to those with normal hemoglobin genotype (HbAA). Methods and Materials A hospital-based, cross-sectional, case-control study was conducted involving 125 children and adolescents (ages 5–16 years) with SCD in steady state, compared with 125 age-matched healthy controls with HbAA genotype. Subjects were recruited from the Haematology Outpatient Clinic at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH). Controls were selected from the General Outpatient Clinic of the same hospital.Pure tone audiometry was used to determine hearing thresholds across standard frequencies. Results The mean hearing thresholds in both ears were significantly higher among SCD subjects (20.0 ± 2.5 dB) compared to HbAA controls (14.2 ± 3.4 dB) (t = 12.918; p < 0.001). Adolescents with SCD demonstrated elevated thresholds at both low and high frequencies, with thresholds increasing with age. No significant gender difference was observed: Males: 21.1 dB Females: 21.2 dB Conclusion Children and adolescents with SCD have significantly elevated hearing thresholds compared to their peers with normal HbAA genotype. This hearing impairment worsens with age and affects both genders equally. These findings highlight the need for routine hearing assessments and targeted interventions for individuals with SCD to detect hearing loss early and prevent long-term complications.
Context The prevalence of infertility is increasing globally. In-vitro fertilization (IVF) offers the highest pregnancy rates for infertile couples worldwide; however, success rates remain relatively low (11–46%). Implantation failure is the most common cause of IVF failure. The role of inflammatory mediators in implantation outcomes—particularly the potential use of follicular fluid biomarkers as indicators of oocyte quality—is currently under investigation. Aim To investigate the relationship between plasma and follicular fluid levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and implantation outcome in women undergoing IVF treatment. Settings and Design A prospective cohort study involving 150 women undergoing IVF treatment at National Hospital, Abuja. Methods and Materials Plasma levels of hs-CRP were measured at down-regulation. Follicular fluid (FF) levels of hs-CRP were measured during oocyte retrieval. Implantation outcome was assessed using plasma β-hCG levels measured on the 14th day post-embryo transfer. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 20 (Chicago, Illinois, USA). Results Plasma hs-CRP: Median level (overall): 6.00 mg/L (IQR = 6.81) Negative implantation outcome: 7.48 mg/L (IQR = 7.50) Positive implantation outcome: 3.62 mg/L (IQR = 7.17) Difference: Not statistically significant (p = 0.259) Follicular Fluid hs-CRP: Median level (overall): 3.69 mg/L (IQR = 5.18) Negative implantation outcome: 4.72 mg/L (IQR = 5.18) Positive implantation outcome: 2.25 mg/L (IQR = 5.01) Difference: Statistically significant (p = 0.035) Conclusion Follicular fluid hs-CRP levels were significantly higher in women with negative implantation outcomes than in those with positive implantation outcomes. This suggests that elevated FF hs-CRP may be associated with poorer implantation success, highlighting its potential role as a biomarker for IVF outcomes.
Context:Herbal alcoholic drinks, like other alcoholic beverages, can be intoxicating and potentially harmful to the kidneys and other vital organs when consumed excessively. This study investigated the nephrotoxic effects of graded doses of Odogwu Bitters herbal alcoholic drink in adult male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods:Sixteen adult male Wistar rats, weighing 195–230 g, were divided into four groups (A–D) of four rats each. Group A served as the control and received only feed and water. Experimental groups received daily doses of Odogwu Bitters: Group B (0.45 mL), Group C (0.75 mL), and Group D (1.05 mL). The study duration was five weeks. Kidney function tests (creatinine, urea, and uric acid) were performed, and renal histology was examined for structural changes. Results:Histological analysis showed no pathological changes in Group B, while Groups C and D exhibited mild mesangial hypercellularity. Kidney function tests revealed no statistically significant differences between the control and experimental groups for creatinine, urea, and uric acid levels. Conclusion:Moderate and high doses of Odogwu Bitters consumed over five weeks caused mild renal changes, whereas low doses did not adversely affect kidney function or histology. These findings suggest that mild consumption may be relatively safe for renal health, while higher doses may exert mild nephrotoxic effects.
Objective: To identify risk factors of breast cancer (BC) in countries with different sociodemographic index (SDI) levels and cultures, with a focus on the USA, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and Pakistan. Method: Inclusion criteria were original articles about breast cancer risk factors from USA, KSA, and Pakistan, from last 10 years. Search was done with PubMed and Google Scholar. Total of 43 articles were selected. AMSTAR 2 was used for the quality assessment of the review. This systematic review was registered with INPLASY on 12th December 2023, under the registration number INPLASY2023120049, with DOI number 10.37766/inplasy2023.12.0049. Results: Different genes were associated with BC in USA, KSA, and Pakistan. Obesity and low physical activity were risk factors in studies from USA, KSA, and Pakistan. Red meat intake in USA, and a high fat intake and chicken in Pakistan were found to be associated with BC. Alcohol was a risk factor for BC in USA, but no such relationship was found in KSA and Pakistan. Studies from USA, KSA, and Pakistan showed cigarette smoke as a risk factor for breast cancer. Studies from USA, KSA, and Pakistan also showed a relationship between hormonal therapy and BC, in both pre-and post-menopausal women. Early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity, unmarried status, no breastfeeding, and low Vitamin D levels were also risk factors for BC in Saudi and Pakistani women. Studies from USA found a relationship between hair dye use and BC risk. A study from Pakistan suggested the use of low-quality hair dye or henna as a risk factor for breast cancer. Conclusion: In conclusion, different risk factors were prevalent for BC in different cultures and countries of SDI levels. Every country needs to focus on prevention and control of its respective risk factors.
