The disinfection of high - level bio-safety laboratories poses challenges in terms of personnel safety, disinfection efficacy, and corrosiveness to items. In this study, whole- room disinfection of BSL-3 using a dry mist H 2 O 2 generator and a vaporized H 2 O 2 generator, as well as dry mist disinfection of HEPA exhaust, were proposed. A dry-mist H 2 O 2 generator and a vaporized H 2 O 2 generator were applied individually to disinfect the space of the BSL-3, along with BSC and HEPA unit. Spores of B. subtilis var. niger and B. stearothermophilus were applied as biological indicators to conduct a qualitative assessment of the disinfection efficacy. The dry- mist H 2 O 2 generator, utilizing a 10% H 2 O 2 solution at a dosage of 10 mL/m³ and with a disinfection duration of 3h, achieved a killing logarithm of 5- 6 log10 for the two types of spores. The identical efficacy was achieved for the vaporized H 2 O 2 generator, by 35% H 2 O 2 at a dosage of 6.5 mL/m³ and with a residual duration of 3h. The disinfection of the exhaust HEPA verification port using 10% dry-mist H 2 O 2 presented significant challenges. All spores were capable of being inactivated when the port was uncovered; while the inactivation of all spores was not achieved when the port was covered. Dry mist H 2 O 2 and vaporized H 2 O 2 disinfection methods demonstrated stable spatial disinfection effect on B. subtilis var. niger and B. stearothermophilus . Achieving the disinfection effect at the disinfection verification port of the HEPA exhaust for the dry mist H 2 O 2 disinfection poses a significant challenge.
Until recently, most of the literature on migration focused on adults, and rarely have migrant children’s perspectives been heard. The number of children migrating alone has increased. Child migrants (below the age of 18) accounted for 12% of the total migrant population. Given their unique physiology, children under 18, particularly those who are very young, are more susceptible to health risks. Despite the significant health risks, health services are generally unavailable or inaccessible to child migrants, and private health services are often too costly, which places health services beyond their reach. This article examines the health risks of child migrants globally, with a special focus on child migrants in India, and identifies the barriers to them accessing health services. However, there is a lack of information on migrants in general, leading to a gap in the data on the health issues of child migrants. To understand this issue, I have reviewed a range of articles and documents, which have helped to identify these gaps in the literature. In addition, the research found that in India, health services are provided based on identity documents linked to place of origin, excluding migrant children from these essential services. Accordingly, it is recommended that public health services are delinked from place of origin requirements and that more data is collected on migrant child and their health issues.
Introduction: Tuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Koch's bacillus) and remains a major public health problem in many developing countries. This study aimed to analyze tuberculosis data from the Niono health district in Mali from 2016 to 2024. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted using routine data collected from Referral Health Centers (CSRef) and selected Community Health Centers (CSCom) in the Niono district. The study covered data from 2016 to 2024. We analyzed annual incidence rates, the proportions of new cases and relapses, and mortality rates. Data confidentiality was maintained through coding throughout the study. Results: A total of 6,711 suspected TB cases, of which 718 were confirmed (a positivity rate of 10.7%), were recorded in the Niono health district database from 2016 to 2024. Tuberculosis incidence increased from 22.1 cases per 100,000 people in the Niono district in 2021 to 26.7 in 2024. The district saw a high proportion of incident cases in 2024 (19.3%). Notification to community health centers was the most common method, at 35.6%. The district experienced frequent relapses in 2019 and 2024 (18.8% and 18%, respectively). 99% of tuberculosis cases were treated at referral health centers. The mortality rate was estimated at 1.3%. Conclusion: Tuberculosis persists in the Niono health district, with the number of cases fluctuating and rising. The implementation of national strategies is necessary to achieve the objectives of a significant reduction.
Sleep disorders constitute a major public health concern due to their high frequency and their impact on alertness and overall health. The objective of this study was to assess sleep disorders and factors associated among diabetic patients attending public healthcare facilities in the Mopti Region in 2022. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted from March 1 to August 31, 2022. The study population was diabetic patients attending healthcare facilities in the Mopti region. Patients aged 18 years and older, attending public healthcare facilities and who provided informed consent, were included. A total of 289 patients were included in the study. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire, including the Berlin Questionnaire, and were analyzed using SPSS software version 25. Results: The mean age of participants was 51.59 ± 11.39 years. Type 2 diabetes accounted for 66.9% of cases. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.62 ± 4.26 kg/m², and the mean sleep duration was 5.76 ± 1.43 hours per day. A high risk of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) was observed in 92.4% of participants. Variables statistically associated with the dependent variable (OSAS) included high blood pressure (OR = 52.4; 95% CI: 1.63–16.8), Tobacco no use (OR = 0.04; 95% CI: 0.03–0.70) and BMI ≥ 25 (OR = 3; 95% CI: 1.20–7.50) Conclusion: This study reveals a high frequency of sleep disorders among diabetic patients in the Mopti region. A nationwide study is warranted to better estimate the prevalence of this condition and to inform the implementation of effective control strategies. These findings highlight the need for large-scale national studies to more accurately estimate the burden of this condition and to guide the implementation of effective prevention and control strategies.
Street foods constitute an essential component of urban food access in Guyana. Yet, empirical evidence on consumer food safety knowledge remains scarce, with existing research focused mainly on street food vendors. This study assessed consumer food safety knowledge in Demerara-Mahaica, Guyana, and examined demographic factors associated with high knowledge. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 104 consumers using a structured questionnaire comprising demographic characteristics and 18 food safety knowledge items. Knowledge scores were derived from correct responses and categorized into low, moderate, and high levels. Descriptive analyses summarized overall and item-level knowledge, while Chi-square tests and odds ratios examined associations between knowledge and demographic variables. A multivariable binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify independent predictors of high food safety knowledge. Overall, most consumers demonstrated moderate food safety knowledge, with persistent deficiencies in technical and pathogen-related concepts despite relatively strong awareness of general hygiene practices. Item-level analyses showed significant associations between overall knowledge classification and understanding of microbial contamination, foodborne pathogens, reheating risks, and adverse health outcomes linked to foodborne disease. Bivariate analyses revealed no statistically significant associations between knowledge level and gender, age group, ethnicity, or place of education. In the multivariable model, educational attainment emerged as the only statistically significant independent predictor of high food safety knowledge (adjusted OR = 2.35), while age showed a positive but borderline association. The modest explanatory power of the model (8.8%, Cox & Snell R², and 12.4% Nagelkerke R²) suggests that factors beyond basic demographics alone shape consumer food safety knowledge. These findings indicate that improving consumer food safety in Guyana will require targeted, context-specific education to address technical knowledge gaps, implemented alongside vendor training, infrastructure support, and regulatory measures within informal food systems.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global public health issue. Its treatment is financially and socially costly, particularly in the terminal stage. The objective of this study was to evaluate the costs of dialysis in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing dialysis at the Aristide Le Dantec Hospital in Dakar. We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study with an economic focus from January 2, 2019, to June 21, 2021. A documentary review of medical records was carried out, coupled with the administration of a questionnaire to each patient meeting the inclusion criteria. Data relating to sociodemographic characteristics, epidemiology, and economics were evaluated. The database was analyzed using Epi Info version 7 software. Among the 89 patients included, 58.43% were already in the terminal stage at the time of CKD diagnosis. The initial nephropathy was dominated by vascular nephropathy, followed by CGN and CIDN, with 45.74%, 30.85%, and 10.63%, respectively. The average annual direct costs for PD patients were 1148 057 ± (792 576) CFA francs; for hemodialysis patients, these costs amounted to 1 560 417 ± (1 224 868) CFA francs. The total cost of care for all dialysis patients amounted to 1 481 922 405 CFA francs, of which 698 563 200 CFA francs (47.14%) were covered by the state and 783 359 205 CFA francs (52.86%) by the patients. The average annual cost of biological tests, travel, and special diets was statistically higher for HD patients than for other patients receiving PD (P value < 0.05). Prevention of this condition is essential in its management in order to limit or avoid its negative effects. Kidney transplantation remains a very promising alternative.
Water sanitation and hygiene practice are important aspect of Environmental and Public Health in disease prevention and control, particularly water and sanitation related diseases. Water serves as an important medium through which many illnesses are spread in the human population. To investigate water sanitation and hygiene practices in selected primary schools of Bule Hora Town. Observational checklists and questionnaires were used in an across-sectional study that used quantitative data collection techniques. Source population was four primary schools students in Bule Hora Town. The sample size of primary schools students and teachers were calculated to be 150. Students' knowledge, attitudes, and hygiene practices concerning WASH were evaluated using a systematic and pre-tested questionnaire, and the state of WASH was determined using an observational check list. SPSS was used to examine the data. There was a frequency table. Odd ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval was calculated by using SPSS software. Out of four primary schools, two (50%) primary schools were classified as having good WASH status. The SPSS of all independent variables demonstrated that the kind of the pupils at the school in (COR=1.882, 95%CI= (1.270-2.587)), understanding the significance of using the restroom (COR= 2.018, 95%CI= (1.314-3.711)), attitude toward open defecation encourages the spread of pathogens (COR=1.527, 95%CI= (1.342-2.771)). The results of this study demonstrated that the types of schools, knowledge, and attitudes were related to WASH practices. The majority of elementary schools had inadequate WASH conditions, and the majority of the pupils practiced poor WASH habits.
The health status of the Ukrainian population affected by the Chornobyl NPP (ChNPP) accident demonstrates a steady downward trend, manifested by higher growth rates of morbidity compared to national averages. The cohort of individuals of fertile age residing in radiation-contaminated territories (RCTs) requires special attention. A retrospective epidemiological analysis of morbidity and mortality from alimentary and alimentary-dependent diseases (ADDs) was conducted among individuals aged 18–49 cohort living in a region with increased environmental hazard (Zhytomyr and Kyiv regions). Official data from medical registers (SRU) for ICD-10 nosological forms for 2019–2021 were used, with calculations of absolute indicators and case fatality rates (%) for age cohorts (18–29, 30–39, and 40–49 years) and gender. It was established that the primary pathological burden is diseases of the circulatory system (DCS) (Class IX), which dominate the structure of morbidity and mortality across all groups. The highest morbidity and critically high case fatality from ischemic heart disease (IHD) were recorded in the 40–49 age group (IHD fatality reached 69.0% in 2020). Among young persons (18–29 years), hypertensive conditions and diseases of the digestive system (Class XI) dominate. Of particular concern is the critically high case fatality from malignant neoplasms (MN) of the digestive organs among young men aged 30–39, which reached 66.7%, indicating aggressive oncopathology and challenges in early diagnosis. Significant gender differences were identified: women more frequently suffer from alimentary anemias and endocrine pathologies related to iodine deficiency. The epidemiological situation indicates a synergistic effect of unbalanced nutrition and environmental stress, necessitating the development of targeted preventive programs considering age and gender specifics.
Aging is a natural biological phenomenon including oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, cellular senescence and cumulative metabolic dysfunction in human body. In Ayurveda ‘aging’, known as Jara - denotes natural aging process by progressive degradation of body tissues and declined in physiological function. Ayurvedic formulations are well known for their rejuvenation property and to support longevity, vitality and physiological balance. DRDC/2015/003, a Herbo-mineral blend derived by fortification of Chyawanprash with some well-reported Ayurvedic ingredients like Mukta (Pearl calax), Safed musli (Chlorophylum borivilianum) and Kesar (Crocus sativa) responsible for decreasing oxidative stress. Current in vitro study assessed anti-aging potential of DRDC/2015/003, on human fibroblast cell (HFF-1). The non-cytotoxic concentration of DRDC/2015/003 was evaluated by MTT assay, followed by assessment of H2O2 induced beta galactosidase activity as oxidative stress marker. Results indicated to marked reduction (17.1% decrease) in H2O2 induced cellular senescence with β–galactosidase (SA- β-gal) activity, in the test setup as compared with controlled cells setup. Such observed activity of DRDC/2015/003 in reducing H2O2 induced beta galactosidase activity in HFF-1 cells indicated to its significant role in anti- aging property and delaying premature cellular aging.
Objectives: Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is an evidence-based strategy to lower infant mortality. However, its implementation is poor. The purpose of this study is to evaluate KMC practice by mothers to their low-birthweight (LBW) newborn at home on their weight outcome in rural community. This would be beneficial in planning and executing necessary intervention in this area for LBW newborn’s better health outcomes. Methods: This was a community-based prospective study conducted in six health sectors of the Chhuria Block of Rajnandgaon District, Chhattisgarh. 150 mothers who have LBW newborn were included in the study and were provided with a KMC bag along with a demonstration on its usage. They were encouraged to practice KMC for at least 8 hours per day. Project field staff collected data manually on KMC practice and weight gain in LBW babies through a structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Results: The mean age of mothers with LBW was 25.16±3.63 years, while the mean birth weight of LBW newborn at the time of delivery was 2.22±0.21 kg. Females outnumbered male LBW newborns (ratio=1.11: 1). The time for skin-to-skin contact was 7-9 hours per day in 86.7% of cases. After the first five days of KMC practice, there was a weight gain of 0.243±0.055 kg; 0.258±0.037 kg for days five to ten; and 0.243±0.046 kg for days ten to fifteen.
The principle of justification is one of the fundamental principles of radiation protection, and even the most important one, as it is the first that must be considered before any request for an X-ray examination. The objective of this study is to assess compliance with the justification principle for CT scans performed in the University Hospitals of Ouagadougou through an analysis of the relevance of examination requests. This is a descriptive analytical study combining two approaches, a quantitative approach and a qualitative approach, based on 516 CT scans performed between August 1, 2024, and January 15, 2025. The analysis of justification was based on the consistency between the stated clinical indication and the requested CT scan. This conformity analysis was carried out using the “Good Practice Guidelines” (Guide de Bon Usage, GBU) for medical imaging examinations published by the French Society of Radiology (SFR) and the French Society of Nuclear Medicine (SFMN). Overall, 51 out of the 516 examinations (9.88%) in our study were deemed inappropriate. Among these, males were the most represented, accounting for 74%, with a sex ratio of 2.84. Lumbar and brain CT scans were the most affected by inappropriate requests, with respective rates of 23.53% and 19.61%. Spinal syndromes and tumor and/or abdominal masses were the most common inappropriate indications in our sample, representing 45.1% and 17.7% respectively. Physicians who had received training in radiation protection had a relevance rate of 92.88%, compared to 66.66% among those who had not received such training. Training physicians in radiation protection in general, and in the justification principle in particular, therefore appears to positively influence the relevance of X-ray examination requests, with a p-value of 0.036 (p < 0.05).
Introduction: Women's lack of decision-making autonomy is a concern for their access to sexual and reproductive health services. To combat maternal morbidity and mortality, Senegal launched the husbands' school strategy in 2012, with the aim of improving men's involvement. The objective is to assess the perception of the husbands' school among the communities of Koumpentoum (one of the first districts to enrol). Methods: This is a qualitative study. In-depth individual interviews were conducted with healthcare providers (12), community health workers (2) and beneficiaries (men (8) and women (8)). A purposive sampling method was used. The study included people who had been living in the district for at least one year and were involved in the strategy. A thematic analysis was performed using Nvivo 12 software. Results: The strategy is well recognised and adopted by the community because of its preventive and participatory nature in promoting family well-being. The degree of involvement of men was considered sufficient. The recruitment of peer husbands based on the exemplary behaviour of men in their households had created a positive emulation among other men. According to service providers, results were noted in terms of an increase in the fre ntion of reproductive health services and a decrease in cases of husbands opposing their wives' access to health services. Conclusion: The husband school strategy is a strategy that engages positive masculinity and improves access to sexual and reproductive health services. Policy makers could strengthen this strategy and scale it up.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continue to devastate the world, particularly women in middle and low-income countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This is principally because it is twofold, that is, gender and context, and thus the infection patterns differ across the gender divide because of biology, physiology, socially constructed gender norms, roles, unequal power relations and social-economic inequalities. The objective of the study was to investigate the efficacy of intervention strategies mitigating the challenges faced by women living with HIV and AIDS in Majengo informal urban settlements in Nyeri County. The study used the descriptive survey design that utilised qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data from participants was collected using the snowballing method and involved in-depth interviews, structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. The study adopted the social systems theory to incorporate consciousness and phenomenology in the construction of society, such as social-economic factors that significantly influence sexual behaviour. The study assessed knowledge and use of preventive measures against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among infected women and identified risky practices and appropriate strategies for curbing the spread of the virus. The inquiry established that the success of the HIV and AIDS intervention strategies depends largely on context-specific challenges facing various populations, such as women living with HIV and AIDS in informal urban settlements. It recommends adoption of HIV and AIDS intervention strategies that mitigate gender and context-specific challenges in informal settlements, including improved infrastructure and enhanced health.
Introduction: Malaria is one of the leading causes of death among children under 5 years of age worldwide, with more than 90% of these deaths located in Africa. In Burkina Faso, malaria is also highly fatal. It is therefore essential to understand the explanatory factors of these deaths in order to develop effective and efficient preventive strategies. This study aims to identify the factors associated with malaria death in children aged 0 to 5 years at the Charles de Gaulles University Hospital (CHUP-CDG). Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on a population of children under 5 years of age with malaria who had been hospitalized at the CHUP-CDG. The data were collected from the medical records of the CHUP-CDG care units. The analysis calculated, using SAS® Software version 9.4., the ORs of associations of patient characteristics with death. Results: The case fatality rate of malaria was 40.63%. The variables associated with death were rural residence 3.72 [2.48; 12:77], poverty 3:53, [1,10; 11:30], severe malnutrition 3:62, [1,61; 21:51], coma 8:72 [3:15; 24:12], vomiting 2:82 [1:81; 4:12], respiratory distress 5:46 [2:20; 13,58], metabolic acidosis 5,39, [1,79; 16,28], hypoglycemia 3.68 [1.03; 13,21], renal insufficiency 4.91 [1.37; 17.58], having had an indication for transfusion and not having been transfused 308.22 [37.06; 408,66]. Conclusion: The need to raise awareness among the population for early use of health facilities, the promotion of universal health coverage and the promotion of a community health policy is necessary in view of the factors identified.
Background: Traditional auscultation remains diagnostically valuable but is limited by examiner subjectivity and access. Smartphone-based AI phonoscopy offers an opportunity for scalable self-screening for valvular heart disease. Methods: Stethophone®, an AI-enabled software as a medical device, was made available for download in Canada, the United States, and Ukraine. Users recorded heart sounds through the smartphone's built-in microphones, processed and enhanced in real time using patented audio algorithms. Quality was automatically assessed, and users were prompted to re-record as needed. Recordings were analyzed for murmurs and aortic stenosis signatures using AI phonoscopy. Results: Among 28,188 users producing 109,882 recordings, 91.7% of lay users and 89.0% of healthcare professionals achieved a clinically interpretable recording on the first attempt. Lay-users and healthcare professionals performed similarly (91% vs 89%). The most successful auscultation site was the tricuspid point; the left carotid least. Cardiac murmurs were detected in 16.3% of recordings, corresponding to 15.6% of users. Structural murmurs were identified in 7.0% of users (4.9% of recordings). Murmurs consistent with aortic stenosis were present in 6.3% of users. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that self-auscultation with a smartphone and dedicated medical software is highly feasible in lay populations, with quality results comparable to clinicians. Pathological murmurs, notably those of aortic stenosis, are common and highlight the potential for population-wide early detection of cardiac disorders.
Introduction: Malaria remains a major public health problem in Mali. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological and clinical aspects of uncomplicated malaria cases in adults treated at the general medicine department of the Reference Health Center in Commune III of Bamako in 2023. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from July 1 to December 31, 2023. All patients aged 18 years or older with either clinically suspected or confirmed uncomplicated malaria-diagnosed through thick blood film, thin blood smear, or rapid diagnostic test (RDT)-were included. Data were gathered through a questionnaire and subsequently entered and analyzed with SPSS version 25. The national malaria control protocol served as a reference for evaluating prescriptions. Results: A total of 317 uncomplicated malaria cases were recorded among 7,584 admissions, accounting for 4.9%. The mean age was 34 ± 15 years, with a female predominance (63%). The main clinical signs were headache (86.12%), chills (49.53%), and fever (52.7%). Thick blood smears were performed in 94% of cases and were positive in 86.44%. Antimalarial treatment was primarily based on artemether/lumefantrine (60.88%). The treatment protocol was appropriate in 65% of prescriptions. Conclusion: Uncomplicated malaria remains prevalent among adults in Commune III. Strengthening preventive measures and adhering to the protocol remain essential to reduce morbidity and prevent severe forms of malaria.
Background: Malaria remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among pregnant women. Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are an effective preventive measure; however, their use in Guinea remains below the World Health Organization’s recommended threshold of at least 80%. At the same time, the rapid expansion of information and communication technologies, particularly mobile phones and the Internet, provides new opportunities to promote positive health behaviors. Nevertheless, little is known about the influence of these technologies on ITN use among pregnant women in Guinea. This study aimed to assess the association between mobile phone and Internet use and ITN utilization among pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted based on secondary analysis of data from the 2021 Guinea Malaria and Anemia Indicator Survey (EIPAG). The study population included women aged 15–49 years who had given birth within the three years preceding the survey. Data analyses were performed using R software version 4.1.3 to describe the sample, conduct bivariate analyses, logistic regression, and regression tree modeling to identify predictive factors. Results: Among the participants, 2,225 women (57%) reported sleeping under an ITN the night before the survey. After adjustment, mobile phone use (73%) and Internet use (24%) were not significantly associated with ITN utilization. In contrast, several factors were significantly associated with higher ITN use, including higher parity (OR = 1.43; 95% CI: 1.17–1.76 for 2–5 children and OR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.32–2.24 for ≥6 children), attending at least four antenatal care visits (OR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.17–1.73), access to radio (OR = 1.25; 95% CI: 1.07–1.45), and receiving malaria prevention messages (OR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.32–1.77). Conversely, large household size and an indirect relationship to the household head were associated with lower ITN use. Conclusion: Mobile phone and internet use had no significant influence on ITN utilization among pregnant women in Guinea. Factors such as household size, relationship to the household head, access to radio, parity, and number of ANC visits were significant predictors of ITN use. Strengthening programs aimed at improving ANC attendance, enhancing radio access, and intensifying media campaigns are recommended to optimize ITN utilization among pregnant women.
Introduction: Monkeypox is a re-emerging viral zoonosis that poses a serious threat to public health, particularly in West Africa. A precise understanding of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of the population is essential for designing effective community-based responses. This study aimed to assess the level of KAP in the population and to identify factors independently associated with good KAP. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted in Tchaourou and Parakou, in the Borgou department of Benin, between February and April 2025. A total of 427 people were included. Cumulative scores for knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices regarding monkeypox were calculated. Three linear regression models were used to identify factors associated with good knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Results: Mean score of knowledge was 56.0%, mean score of attitude 67.0%, and mean score of practice only 44.3%. Factors significantly associated with an increase in the level of knowledge were higher education level (coefficient = 3.22; 95% CI: [1.98; 5.24]) and access to media (coefficient = 1.95; 95% CI: [1.19; 3.21]). Positive attitude was related to good knowledge (coefficient = 1.88; 95% CI: [1.26; 2.80]) and age (coefficient = 1.65; 95% CI: [1.09–2.50]). Regarding good practices, a positive attitude (coefficient = 2.85; 95% CI: [1.97; 4.13]) and female sex (coefficient = 1.62; 95% CI: [1.11; 2.37]) were significant predictors. Conversely, being a farmer/livestock breeder (coefficient = -0.35; 95% CI [-0.74; -0.22]) and living in a rural area (coefficient = -0.59; 95% CI [-0.81; -0.37]) were associated with poor practices. Conclusion: Although the overall attitude is relatively positive, this study reveals significant gaps in knowledge and, especially, in the adoption of effective preventive practices. Targeted interventions are recommended, including the use of communication channels adapted to low-education populations and communication strategies for behavioral change.
Battery technicians who repair lead-acid batteries are consistently exposed to elemental lead, which poses a significant occupational health risk. This exposure is associated with an elevated risk of developing serious lead related diseases and long-term disability. Understanding the interplay between occupational practices, knowledge of hazards, and actual lead exposure is critical for developing effective public health interventions in this high-risk occupational group. The primary objective of this study was to comprehensively assess the blood lead levels (BLLs) of battery technicians, and evaluate their current knowledge of lead health hazards, their attitude towards preventive measures, their adherence to safety practices, and their general work habits. This investigation employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design. The study population comprised a total of 150 currently active battery technicians operating within a defined geographical area. Data collection was performed using a structured, pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire. This instrument gathered information on socio-demographics, detailed knowledge of lead's health hazards, specific safety practices utilized, and daily work and personal hygiene habits. The BLLs were concurrently measured for all participants using an appropriate laboratory technique. Statistical analysis, including the Chi-square test, was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 20, to test for significant associations, with the significance level set at p≤0.05. Analysis of the data revealed that a substantial proportion of the technicians exhibited elevated BLLs. Key findings indicated that knowledge regarding the appropriate use of a rubber apron, attitude towards the inhalation of lead fumes, and the crucial habit of face washing before eating/smoking were all significantly associated with the measured blood lead level of the battery technicians (p≤0.05). These results underscore that specific behavioral practices directly correlate with the biological burden of lead exposure. The study concludes that there is an urgent need to improve occupational hygiene and health literacy among battery technicians. It is strongly recommended that workplaces ensure the provision and mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly rubber aprons and face masks. Furthermore, intensified health education and regular training on the proper use of PPE, the provision of readily available running water at all workplaces for personal hygiene, and targeted behavioral change communication are essential strategies that will promote consistent personal hygiene habits and, ultimately, reduce the significant occupational lead burden for this vulnerable workforce.
Street food vending provides an important source of income and affordable meals in Guyana; however, its largely informal nature raises persistent concerns regarding food safety and public health. Vendors’ attitudes toward food safety are critical, as attitudes influence food-handling behaviors and can ultimately affect the risk of foodborne illness. Despite this relevance, no empirical study in Guyana has previously examined food safety attitudes among street food vendors, creating a notable gap in the food safety literature. This study aimed to assess food safety attitudes among night street food vendors in the Demerara-Mahaica region and to examine the extent to which demographic characteristics are associated with these attitudes. Demographic and attitude data were derived from a larger street food safety survey, in which a questionnaire was administered to 104 vendors between April and June 2024. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize overall attitude patterns. At the same time, hypothesis tests using the chi-square test, t-tests, ANOVA, and binary logistic regression assessed associations between attitudes and demographic characteristics. The results show that most vendors demonstrated a positive attitude toward general food safety principles; however, notable misconceptions emerged in areas requiring a technical understanding. These include proper thawing, refreezing, cross-contamination, and the cold storage hierarchy. Statistically significant associations were identified between a few high-risk attitude items and overall attitude scores. The logistic regression model comprises education level and place of schooling, and, based on the Nagelkerke R2 statistic, it explains 10% of the variation in attitude scores. These findings indicate that although vendors value food safety, targeted, context-appropriate education is necessary to address persistent misconceptions that may compromise safe practices. Efforts to strengthen vendor training, enhance risk communication, and support regulatory oversight could meaningfully improve food safety outcomes within Guyana’s informal street food sector.
