Background: Digitalizing the healthcare system presents significant challenges in nations like Bangladesh, where resources are extremely limited and there is a general hesitancy in technology adoption. The study aimed to assess the status of digital technology (DT) adoption among nurses in public hospitals across Bangladesh and to identify its predictors using the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Methods: A cross-sectional study using a mixed-methods design was conducted in three levels of Bangladeshi hospitals during the first half of 2025. Quantitative data were gathered from 380 randomly selected nurses through face-to-face interviews. Qualitative data were collected via 16 in-depth interviews (IDIs) and 4 focus group discussions (FGDs)with various stakeholders. Results: More than 80% of the surveyed nurses were female and Muslim, with a mean age of 39.1 years; 71.1% worked in a tertiary-level hospital. More than half of the nurses demonstrated poor knowledge (56.3%), attitude (54.2%), and practice (54.5%) regarding DT adoption, and 46.4% reported poor self-control. Statistical analysis using hierarchical regression and pathway analysis revealed that knowledge, attitude, motivation, and self-control had significant positive effects on DT practices (p<0.05). Key barriers to DT adoption included poor attitudes of nurses, inadequate organizational support, and a lack of policy-level emphasis on digital health. The poor capacity of nurses to adopt DT and inadequate logistics hindered services. Conclusion: An integrated approach is essential to build nurses' capacity for DT adoption. Implementing a robust digital health policy and ensuring technology adoption at the user level is crucial for digital transformation in public healthcare settings
Background: The Sustainable Drug Revolving Fund (SDRF) scheme was introduced in Lagos State as a revised model of the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) to ensure continuous availability and affordability of essential medicines in Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs). This study assessed the operational performance of the SDRF and examined factors influencing staff satisfaction with its implementation in Lagos State Health District 1. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted across all 59 functional PHCs in Lagos Health District I between May and July 2024. The primary outcome was the SDRF's operational performance, measured by drug availability, stock-out rates, and procurement frequency. The secondary outcome was staff satisfaction with SDRF operations, assessed alongside patient perspectives on drug availability, pricing, and dispensing time. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires, prescription review checklists, and facility audits. Descriptive statistics summarized key indicators, while chi-square tests and binary logistic regression identified predictors of staff satisfaction at a 5% significance level. Results: SDRF was operational in 96.6% of facilities, with 76.3% having functional SDRF committees. Essential drug availability was high (90%), though prices varied across facilities. About half of PHCs reported delays in fund disbursement, and about half (50.9%) of the staff were averagely satisfied, and the remaining were very satisfied (49.1%) with the facilities' operational factors. Patient feedback corroborated these findings, with over 50% strongly agreeing that drugs were regularly available, and more than 91% of prescriptions were mainly dispensed. Logistic regression revealed that delays in fund disbursement negatively affected staff satisfaction. Conclusion: The SDRF has improved drug availability and efficiency in PHCs. Sustaining staff satisfaction and long-term performance requires timely disbursement of funds, strengthened governance, standardized procurement cycles, and adequate capitalization.
Background: Nigeria's rapidly growing and diverse population requires a resilient public health system capable of delivering equitable, high-quality healthcare. This review synthesized evidence on the current state of Nigeria's public health system and explored community-based initiatives as potential solutions to strengthen service delivery. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of bibliographic databases and grey literature sources. Studies published between 2000 and 2025 reporting on the status of Nigeria’s public health system, health indicators, systemic challenges, and community-based solutions were included. Results: Findings identified persistent system-level challenges, including a high burden of communicable diseases, recurrent epidemics, and a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases. Maternal and child health outcomes remain suboptimal: only 43% of live births occur in health facilities, and 63% of women receive antenatal care from skilled providers. Mortality rates remain high, with under-five, infant, and neonatal deaths at 110, 63, and 41 per 1,000 live births. Child nutrition is suboptimal, with 40% of children under five stunted, 27% underweight, 8% wasted, and 1% overweight. These outcomes are linked to high out-of-pocket expenditures, health-worker shortages, inequitable infrastructure, inadequate policies, and limited public awareness. Evidence highlights community-based initiatives, including community needs assessments, community engagement, community-based health insurance (CBHI), and the local recruitment and training of health workers, as viable approaches to improve access, utilisation, and system performance. Conclusion: Strengthening and evaluating the feasibility and impact of diverse community-based health models may improve utilisation, equity, quality, and accountability within Nigeria’s public health system.
Background Drug abuse among undergraduates has increased and is now considered a major public health problem in Nigeria. This study assesses the prevalence and predictors of drug abuse amongst university students in Delta State, Nigeria. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2023 among 1134 university students in Delta State, using multistage sampling. Data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire to assess the prevalence and predictors of drug abuse. All undergraduate students from three accredited universities were included in the study. Data analysis was done using the IBM SPSS Statistics (version 26). Ethical approval was obtained from the Health Research Ethics Committee of Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara. Results The mean age of participants was 20.9 ± 2.89 years, and the prevalence of drug abuse was 27.4%. The significant factors associated with drug abuse were religion (p=0.001), faculty of study (P = 0.007), parental status (P= 0.001), and marital status (P<0.001). However, having only the mother alive (AOR= 2.62; 95%CI: 1.25-5.48), both parents alive (AOR=2.64; 95%CI:1.39-4.97), and being in the faculty of basic medical sciences (AOR=6.96; 95%CI:1.14 - 42.54) were the only significant predictors of drug abuse. Conclusion This study revealed a relatively high prevalence of drug abuse among respondents, and the major reasons for drug abuse were stress, curiosity, and peer pressure. It is therefore recommended that targeted interventions to reduce negative parental influences, peer pressure and stress among students should be regularly implemented in universities to reduce the prevalence of drug abuse.
Background: Child marriage, defined as marriage before 18 years, remains a significant public health and human rights concern globally and in Nigeria. In southeastern Nigeria, socio-cultural norms, family expectations, and economic pressures perpetuate early marriage despite legal restrictions. This study assessed community knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of child marriage and its health consequences in Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2025 among 412 adults sampled from five wards in Nsukka LGAof Enugu, Nigeria. Structured questionnaires captured socio-demographics, awareness, knowledge, and attitudes, scored and graded as good/fair/poor and negative/neutral/supportive. Qualitative data from six focus group discussions and ten key informant interviews were analyzed thematically. Quantitative data were summarized with descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression to identify predictors of supportive attitudes. Results: Participants were mostly female (56.3%) and aged 25–34 years (38.6%). Awareness was high (82.3%), but only 58.2% correctly identified the legal minimum age. Negative attitudes predominated (69.4%), with 30.6% supportive or neutral. Low education, poverty, and poor knowledge predicted supportive attitudes. Recognized maternal and neonatal risks included obstructed labour (44.2%), anaemia (38.8%), and low birthweight (34.5%). Conclusion: Child marriage persists in Nsukka due to socio cultural and economic factors. Targeted health education, legal enforcement, socio-economic empowerment, community engagement, and adolescent-friendly health services are needed to reduce early marriage and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major global health concern, with Nigeria facing persistent transmission due to limited knowledge and poor preventive practices. Young adults are a critical population for intervention. This study assessed knowledge, perception, and preventive practices related to HBV infection among young adults in Lagos, Nigeria Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from April 12 to July 10, 2025, involving 1,113 young adults aged 18–35 years across three Local Government Areas in Lagos State. Multi-stage sampling was employed, and data were collected using interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaires. Outcomes included knowledge, perception, and preventive practices. Data were analysed using SPSS version 30, with significance set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained from the Lagos University Teaching Hospital Health Research Ethics Committee. Results: Respondents’ mean age was 25.7 years (SD = 5.29); most were male (52.9%) and had a tertiary education (57%). Good knowledge was demonstrated by 67.1%, positive perceptions by 81.5%, and good preventive practices by 43.8%. Although 82.5% were aware of HBV, 76% had not been screened, and 84.9% had not been vaccinated. Lack of knowledge of vaccination sites was the main barrier (61.6%). Educational attainment was significantly associated with knowledge (p = 0.006), perception (p < 0.001), and preventive practices (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Despite high knowledge and positive perceptions, preventive practices remain inadequate. Strengthening vaccination programs, expanding screening, and addressing barriers to vaccination access are essential to reduce HBV transmission in Nigeria.
Background: Elder abuse is rapidly gaining attention as a concern globally, undermining not only the health, dignity, and quality of life of older adults but also having attendant social and public health consequences. Nevertheless, in Nigeria and several parts of the world, it is often underreported and neglected. This study assessed the prevalence, patterns, perpetrators, and factors associated with elder abuse in two urban communities of Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 257 elderly persons in Benin and Uromi, Edo State, from November 2019 to February 2020, using multistage sampling. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analysed using IBM SPSS version 23.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained for the study. Results: The respondents had a mean age of 69.6 ± 7.8 years, with more than half aged 60-69 years (55.3%). The prevalence of elder abuse was 29.2%, and the common types were emotional abuse (85.3%), neglect (84.0%), financial abuse (78.7%), and physical abuse (69.3%). The main perpetrators were children (50.7%), followed by house helps and caregivers (17.3%). Associated factors included educational status, financial dependency, living arrangements, health status, marital status, and age. Conclusion: Elder abuse is a common and serious public health issue in the study setting. Hence, there is a need for social and welfare support, community-based awareness, and interventions to promote respectful ageing and enhance the prevention and early detection of elder abuse.
BACKGROUND: Older persons are more vulnerable to food insecurity due to factors such as retirement and loss of income, social isolation, inadequate social safety nets, and declining health status. This study assessed the prevalence, pattern, and risk factors of food insecurity among older persons in Ilorin metropolis, Nigeria. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 269 eligible respondents selected using a multistage sampling technique between May and November 2024. The study tool was adapted from the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) and administered via electronic questionnaire. HFIAS consists of 9 questions, graded 0 to 3, to determine the presence of food insecurity. Data were analyzed using STATA 11.0. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted, and the level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained. RESULTS: Mean age was 71.0±8.4 years. About 44% live in an urban setting, while more than two-thirds have fewer than six people per household. Most respondents (72.6%) earn less than 50,000 naira monthly. Most respondents (94.1%) were food insecure. Age (p=0.015) and place of residence (p=0.008) were significant risk factors associated with food insecurity. Age, place of residence, wealth index, number per household, average monthly income and BMI were predictors of food insecurity. CONCLUSION: The study revealed high levels of food insecurity among older persons, indicating it's a multifactorial issue influenced by various socio-economic factors. These results underscore the need for targeted interventions that address identified risk factors among older adults.
Background: Immunization coverage disparities leave many children vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases. The situation in urban slums in Cross River State remains undocumented. This study assessed missed opportunities for vaccination (MOV) among children aged 12–23 months in Calabar South, Cross-River State, Nigeria. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among children aged 12–23 months. Information was obtained from their caregivers. Data collection occurred from August to September 2023. A sample of 460 was determined using Cochran’s formula, adjusted for a 10% non-response rate and a design effect of 1.25. Data were collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire via Kobo Toolbox. Analysis was done using SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were presented, associations tested using Chi-square, and significant variables were pulled into a multivariate logistic regression at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained (CRSMOH/RP/HREC/2023/401). Results: There were 190(41.3%) male children and 270(58.7%) female children in the study. Among caregivers, 65 (14.1%) were males, while 395 (85.9%) were females; the majority were mothers (92.0%), aged 30–39 years (42.8%), with secondary education (61.3%). MOV prevalence was 8.0%. OPV0 was the most missed vaccine, while PENTA1 and BCG were the least. The main reason cited for MOV was the perception that the child was 'too old.'. In multivariate binary logistic regression, lower age of caregiver, and having timely vaccination reduced the likelihood of MOV. Conclusion: Strengthening routine immunization, retraining health workers on a “no MOV” policy, and targeted caregiver education are needed to reduce MOV in Calabar South.
Background: Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) is a strategic approach to addressing the rising burden of diseases and public health threats. With the increasing frequency of disease outbreaks globally, early detection and timely response have become essential. This study assessed healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding IDSR in a health facility in Ogun, Nigeria. Method: A health facility-based, cross-sectional study, involving 332 healthcare workers (HCWs) selected through a simple random sampling method from January to March 2025. Data were collected using a quantitative method and analysed using IBM SPSS version 27. Logistic regression was performed with a statistical significance level of p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained from Babcock University Health Research and Ethics Committee. Result: Mean age of participants was 34.5 ± 11.1 years, and 189 (56.9%) were male. Regarding IDSR, 65.7% had good knowledge, 56% had a good attitude, and 41% had good practices. Factors associated with knowledge include educational qualification (AOR: 0.613, CI 0.444-0.846, p=0.003), years of experience (AOR: 0.568, CI 0.442-0.778, p=0.0001), IDSR forms availability (AOR: 0.443, CI 0.257-0.764, p=0.003), and occupation (AOR: 0.602, CI 0.438-0.828, p=0.002). Years of experience (AOR: 0.722, CI 0.537-0.971, p=0.031) was associated with attitude. Factors associated with practice include educational qualification (AOR: 1.494, CI 1.034-2.073, p=0.032), previous IDSR training (AOR: 10.016, CI 5.070– 23.076, p=0.0001), and IDSR forms availability (AOR: 11.729, CI 6.002-22.922, p=0.0001). Conclusion: To enhance IDSR implementation, HCWs’ capacity should be strengthened through targeted training and improved availability of IDSR tools to support early detection and response to disease outbreaks.
Background: This study compared antiretroviral adherence among stable adult HIV clients receiving care at community pharmacies (CP)—licensed private facilities supervised by pharmacists—and specialty clinics (SC), which are ART clinics in tertiary hospitals. The objective was to assess differences in adherence outcomes between CP AND SC in Rivers State, Nigeria, following the decentralization of HIV care for stable ART clients. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study involving 165 SC clients and 166 CP clients was conducted using systematic random sampling. Stable adults (viral load <1,000 copies/mL and no complications) on ART for at least 1 year were interviewed by phone between February and April 2021. Adherence, the primary outcome, was measured using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 and classified as adherent or non-adherent. Data were analysed with SPSS 25. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and Rivers State University Teaching Hospital. Results: Community pharmacies (CP) served slightly older, more urban, and more employed clients than specialty clinics (SC). ART adherence was higher in CP (77.7%) than SC (64.2%), a significant 13.8% difference (χ²=7.29; p=0.007). CP clients had nearly twice the odds of adherence compared to SC [OR=1.94; 95% CI: 1.19–3.15; p=0.007]. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that clients receiving ART through CP had higher adherence rates than those in SC. In view of these findings, it is recommended that the CP ART program be scaled up to other LGAs, as outcomes in CP are comparable to those observed in SC settings.
Background: Routine immunization is vital for preventing vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) and reducing infant mortality. In Delta State, Nigeria, progress has been inconsistent, with major setbacks following COVID-19 service disruptions. Methods: A retrospective longitudinal study analyzed 842,779 infant immunization records from the Delta State Ministry of Health covering January 2018–December 2022. Data on immunization coverage, dropout rates, and vaccine-preventable diseases were examined using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests in IBM SPSS version 26.0, comparing pre-pandemic (2018–2019), pandemic, and post-pandemic (2020–2022) periods (p < 0.05). Results: Among 842,779 infant records analyzed, 52% were male and 48% female, with 62% residing in rural areas. Full immunization coverage improved from 67% in 2018 to 78% in 2019, but declined to 61% in 2020, recovering slightly to 63% in 2022 (p = 0.04). Uptake of the Hepatitis B birth dose increased from 31% to 49%, reflecting more facilitybased deliveries. Measles second-dose administration rose markedly from 11,814 in 2018 to 95,462 in 2022. However, coverage for Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus (DPT3) and yellow fever vaccines declined, with Pentavalent 3 dropout rates rising from 8.2% to 9.9%. Infant mortality peaked at 14.4 per 1,000 live births in 2020. Conclusion: Despite gains in Hepatitis B and measles coverage, overall routine immunization remains fragile. Strengthened monitoring, resilient service delivery, and targeted outreach to underserved populations are essential to restore coverage, close immunity gaps, and reduce preventable infant deaths.
Background: Antenatal depression and anxiety are prevalent in low- and middleincome countries, but the link with social support is under-researched. This study examined the role of perceived social support, anxiety, and depression among pregnant women attending Primary Health Care Centres (PHCCs) in Amuwo-Odofin LGA, Lagos State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 281 pregnant women at PHCCs was conducted between January and March 2023 using a multistage sampling method. Participants, who had no diagnosed mental or chronic illnesses and provided informed consent, were evaluated for anxiety, perceived social support, and depression using established scales. Data analysis using IBM SPSS included descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression at the p < 0.05 significance level. The Babcock University Health Research Ethics Committee granted ethical approval. Results: Most participants were aged 29–35 years. Results indicated moderate anxiety (13.55 ± 5.7), strong social support (34.61 ± 3.14), and minimal depression (10.10 ± 3.8). Anxiety had a weak positive, non-significant association with depression (r = 0.114, p = 0.056), and social support showed a very weak negative correlation (r = –0.049, p = 0.414). Together, anxiety and social support explained only 1.6% of the variance in depression. Anxiety emerged as a borderline predictor of depression (B = 0.08, p = 0.051), while social support was not (B = –0.07, p = 0.367). No associations between income, anxiety, and depression. Conclusion: Strengthening routine maternal mental health services within PHCCs is recommended to promote antenatal well-being in Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos State.
Background: Children often can't recognize or communicate vision problems, so parents must be vigilant in identifying risks, noticing subtle signs, and reporting concerns. This study assesses parental knowledge and practices regarding primary eye care for children in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between October 2023 and May 2024 among parents of children under 18 years in the Ashanti region. A Stratified random sampling method was used to recruit 454 consenting participants. Data was collected using a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire to assess children’s eye care-seeking behaviors, children’s eye examination history, and sources of information regarding pediatric eye health. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis were performed using SPSS version 28. Ethical approval for the study was obtained. Results: A total of 454 parents participated, with the majority being females (60%), between the ages of 31 and 40years, and having at least a junior secondary education. The overall parental knowledge of child eye health was rated as good in 51.0% of participants. The majority (60.8%) of parents had never taken their children for eye consultations and 78.5% expressed no concerns about their children wearing spectacles. School teachers and radio programs were the most preferred sources of information about children’s eye care. Conclusion: The level of knowledge and practices regarding pediatric eye health among parents in the Ashanti Region is moderate, with a notable gap in seeking timely interventions. Targeted community-based programs should be organized to emphasize the importance of early detection and routine pediatric eye examination.
Background: Influenza is a significant health threat, especially in low- and middleincome countries (LMICs) like Nigeria, where healthcare workers (HCWs) play a vital role in curbing its spread. This study examined the awareness and willingness of HCWs at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) to receive and recommend the influenza vaccine. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May 2024 to September 2024, using a structured electronic questionnaire to assess HCWs' uptake and willingness to recommend influenza vaccination. Two hundred and fifty-two (252) respondents participated in this study, and they were chosen using consecutive and convenience sampling. Ethical approval was obtained from the LASUTH Ethics and Research Committee. The dataset was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25, with univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis done to identify significant relationships, setting statistical significance at p < 0.05. Results: The modal age group was 35-44 years (31.0%), more than three-quarters of respondents were females (77.8%), and the majority of the respondents had at least a tertiary education (67.9%). Most respondents (59.29%) demonstrated good knowledge of influenza, with 92.3% recognizing it as a viral infection. Willingness to recommend (81.4%) and receive (85.7%) the vaccine was high. Clinical roles and educational levels significantly influenced willingness, with clinical staff being more likely to recommend (p < 0.001) and receive (p = 0.0086) the vaccine. Conclusion: This study examines HCWs’ uptake and willingness to recommend the influenza vaccine. Targeted education about vaccine safety misconceptions could enhance HCW uptake, promoting broader public vaccination.
Background: Diabetes mellitus and impaired glucose tolerance have become significant global health issues. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in a rural community in Edo State. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 310 residents of Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, Edo State, from February to October 2023. The respondents were selected using a multi-stage sampling method. Using the modified WHO STEPS tool for chronic diseases, anthropometric measurements and standard glucose level assessments were performed in stages, and data were analyzed with IBM SPSS version 22.0. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of glucose intolerance, with a p-value of <0.05 indicating statistical significance. Ethical approval was obtained for the study. Results: Out of 310 recruited for the study, 206 (66.5%) were females. The mean (SD) age of the participants was 58.9 (+13.5) years. The prevalence of impaired fasting glucose was 1.3% (Males, 1.0%; females, 1.4%). The overall prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) was 10.3%. Females had a higher rate of DM than males (13.6% vs. 3.8%), a statistically significant difference (p = 0.008). Factors associated with glucose intolerance included increased weight (OR=0.929, CI=0.883-0.978), body mass index (OR=1.195, CI=1.064-0.343), waist circumference (OR=2.401, CI=1.025-5.622), and alcohol consumption (OR=0.399, CI=0.183-0.870). Conclusion: A greater number of females were diagnosed with DM in the study. Health authorities should promote health-promoting and disease prevention initiatives that focus on healthy lifestyles and dietary habits, with particular emphasis on women.
Background: Access, quality, and utilization of maternal health services (MHS) have remained policy and public health concerns in many developing countries, including Nigeria.This study examined the accessibility, quality, and uptake of MHS in a rural community in Osun State, Nigeria. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2024 among 72 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) who were homogeneous in terms of their socioeconomic attributes. Study participants were recruited using a convenience sampling method. Six focus group discussions were held, with data collected via an interview guide and analyzed thematically using Atlas Ti. Ethical approval was obtained, and the study outcomes included quality, access, and utilization of MHS in the setting. Results: Among the respondents, 55.6% were aged 20-29 years, 66.7% practiced Christianity, and 83.3% came from monogamous families. The majority of respondents indicated that maternal health services (MHS) were neither financially nor physically accessible to them, as women frequently travel beyond their immediate communities to seek care. The quality and utilization of MHS were assessed as sub-optimal. Perceived barriers to access, quality, and utilization of MHS included the absence of blood transfusion services, lack of obstetric ultrasound facilities, unavailability of ambulance services, frequent stock-outs of essential medicines, and the unavailability of skilled birth attendants. Conclusion: There is an urgent need for policymakers to design and implement interventions that can improve access, quality, and uptake of MHS services in rural Nigerian communities to meet global targets.
Background: Cervical cancer is the second most frequent cancer in South Africa despite the availability of the HPV vaccination. The success of the HPV vaccine lies with the caregiver's acceptance, as their daughters cannot be vaccinated without their consent. This study aimed to determine the perception, acceptability, and uptake of the HPV vaccination among caregivers of girls aged 9-13 in the Tshwane sub-district of South Africa. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 368 caregivers who were selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-administered, anonymised questionnaire between March and April 2020. Stepwise logistic regression was used to determine predictors for HPV vaccine uptake using STATA version 12. Ethical approval was obtained from the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University Ethics Committee. Results: The mean age of caregivers was 38 years (SD = 7.11). Most respondents were female (88%), black (94%), single (52%), and 45% had a secondary education. About half (48%) reported that their daughters had received the HPV vaccine, yet 68% were uncertain about the number of doses administered. The majority (74%) were vaccinated because of disease severity, followed by 8% citing effectiveness. Factors such as awareness of HPV vaccination, clarity of procedures, and understanding of the effects of the HPV vaccine were identified as being associated with the acceptance of vaccination (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study found that caregivers have limited knowledge about the HPV virus and HPV vaccination. Therefore, it is advisable to develop HPV vaccine programs specifically for caregivers with less education, focusing on vaccination schedules, recommended doses, and cervical cancer prevention.
Background: The Yorubas in Nigeria are widely regarded as pronatalist, yet little is known about whether this extends to the acceptance of adopted children. Existing studies often rely on secondary data or focus solely on infertile individuals. This study explores the influence of sociocultural factors on child adoption among both fertile and infertile Yorubas. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological design was employed, using Key Informant Interviews(KIIs) and In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) with 25 purposively selected participants: ten fertile couples, seven infertile couples, three adoptive parents, an orphanage manager, a legal expert, a gynecologist, a fertility expert, and a motherless babies’ home administrator. Eligible primary participants were Yoruba couples residing in Ekiti, married for at least two years, and aged 18 years or older. Thematic analysis was used to identify the various sociocultural factors. Data were thematically analyzed using NVivo and ethical approval was obtained. Results: The couples were mainly between 30 and 49 years old, identified as Christians, and had between 1 and 6 children. The women in the infertile couples were aged 20 to 49 years, experiencing primary infertility, for a duration of 3 to 12 years. Three themes emerged: cultural factors, social factors, and cultural–social hybrids. Fertile couples expressed greater openness to adoption, while infertile couples often viewed it negatively, citing stigma and community pressure. Overall, traditions, religious beliefs, and societal expectations discouraged adoption, although it was also regarded as a means of gaining family support. Conclusion: Interventions should address cultural attitudes, reduce stigma, and simplify adoption processes. Policies must tackle unplanned pregnancies and enhance the availability of adoptable children through transparent procedures
Background: Adequate birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) among pregnant women can reduce decision-making delays, increase skilled birth service use and prevent maternal and neonatal complications. This study compares BPCR between women displaced by insurgency and women of host communities in Northeast, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in Yobe in November 2021 involved 946 women (IDPs and host) selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected via an interviewer-administered ODK-based questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS v20.0. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses assessed associations between sociodemographic factors and BPCR knowledge, attitudes, and practice at a significance level of p ≤0.05. Result: Most respondents were aged 25–29 years (mean - 29.5 (±7.3) for IDPs and 29.0 (±6.8) for hosts). While BPCR awareness was high (hosts: 84.1%, IDPs: 82.9%), knowledge was poor in both groups (hosts: 14.8%, IDPs: 13.1%). Factors associated with BPCR knowledge included education, ANC attendance, income source, and husband’s occupation. Among IDPs, having a source of income significantly predicted better knowledge (AOR = 3.3). In host communities, husbands’ education and occupation were significant predictors (AOR = 9.9 and AOR = 2.5, respectively). Positive attitudes toward BPCR were common in both groups (hosts: 86.7%, IDPs: 86.9%). In IDPs, ANC attendance and knowledge predicted positive attitudes (AOR = 3.36 and AOR = 8.22). Among hosts, husband’s education, occupation, and knowledge of danger signs predicted positive attitudes (AOR = 3.81, 3.72, and 3.72, respectively). Conclusion: Despite awareness and positive attitudes, BPCR knowledge and practice are low. Targeted education and enhanced ANC services are crucial to promote BPCR, especially among vulnerable IDP populations.
