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ORIGINAL ARTICLES
Sonographic measurement of uterine dimensions in healthy nulliparous adults in Northwestern Nigeria
Umar Muhammad Umar, K Isyaku, Yahuza Mansur Adamu, SA Abubakar, NA Kabo, I Nura, AT Naimatu
January-March 2017, 20(1):1-7
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.204328  
Background: Data on uterine dimensions in nulliparous women are vital for public health consideration as the presence of uterine pathology in nulliparous women effectively reflects the status of fertility and other gynecological conditions in general population. In the last two decades, sonography has become the most important imaging modality for the study of the uterine pathology. The estimation of uterine size has been widely reported by several authors from different parts of the world. Materials and Methods: Sonographic measurements of the uterine size in 400 nulliparous women with age ranging from 15 to 25 years were done during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, with the uterus measured in the anteroposterior (AP), longitudinal, and transverse planes. The uterine volume was calculated using the ellipsoid algorithm. Height and weight of the subjects were also measured. The data were analyzed with the aid of computer-based SPSS 20.0 software for Windows. Results: The mean AP diameter of the uterus was 3.3 cm with standard deviation of 0.3 while the mean longitudinal and transverse dimensions were found to be 6.4 cm ± 0.4 cm and 5.1 cm ± 0.2 cm, respectively. The mean uterine volume of the subjects was 57.4 cm 3 with standard deviation of ± 9.1. The uterine AP diameter showed poor correlation with age and weight but showed positive correlation with the height. Uterine length and width correlated positively with age and height but poorly correlated with weight of the subjects. Conclusion: Mean uterine dimensions in nulliparous women in Kano, Northwestern Nigeria, is virtually the same as that reported in Southwestern and north central parts of Nigeria, Iran, and Scandinavia but differ from those of other Europeans probably due to body habitus, racial, and genetic factors. This emphasizes the fact that normograms for each geographical area should be established.
  171,064 1,263 -
Bleeding prostate: A 10-year experience in the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (Umth), Nigeria
Gadam Ibrahim Ahmed, Suleiman Aliyu, Nuhu Ali
July-September 2014, 17(3):79-82
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.140284  
Background: Bleeding from an enlarged prostate gland is a major complication of benign prostatic enlargement (BPH). This review details our management over a 10-year period. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of patients who presented with bleeding BPH between January 2001 and December 2010 was carried out to determine the outcome of management. Results: Forty-two patients with bleeding prostates treated by open prostatectomy were analyzed. The peak incidence was in the age group of 60-69 years. The main associated co-morbidities were hypertension in 17 (40.48%) and diabetes in seven (16.67) patients. Urine culture was positive in 24 (57.14%) patients, with E. coli in 13 (54.17%) and Pseudomonas in four (16.67%) patients as the main isolates. Most patients (37; 88.08%) received blood transfusions ranging from two to four units. Operative techniques were transvesical in 30 (76.92%) and retropubic in nine (23.08%) patients. Isolated median lobe enlargement of the prostate was seen in 18 (46.15%) and whole organ enlargement in 21 (53.85%) patients. The weight of the prostates ranged from 47 to 403 g (mean, 127 g). Incidental carcinoma was seen in one patient (2.56%). The mean hospital stay was 11 days (range 9-21), and the mean follow-up was 21 months (range 3-26). There was one (2.38%) mortality. Conclusion: BPH with massive hematuria invariably has an enlarged median lobe and is managed by open prostatectomy, without risk of re-bleeding.
  77,853 778 -
CASE REPORTS
Haematoma of the labia minora following consensual sexual intercourse
Matthew Chum Taingson, Joel A Adze, Stephen B Bature, Amina Mohammed Durosinlorun, Mohammed Caleb, Abubakar Amina
January-March 2018, 21(1):52-54
DOI:10.4103/smj.smj_33_16  
This is a case report of a 21-year-old woman who presented with a large hematoma of her right labia minora after consensual sexual intercourse that resolved following nonsurgical intervention.
  27,161 465 1
ORIGINAL ARTICLES
The profile of infertility in a teaching Hospital in North West Nigeria
Abubakar A Panti, Yusuf T Sununu
January-March 2014, 17(1):7-11
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.129145  
Background: Infertility is a global health problem and a socially destabilizing condition for couples carrying several stigmas and a cause of marital disharmony. We determined the prevalence, causes, and clinical pattern of infertility at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted at the Gynecological Department of UDUTH Sokoto between 1 st January, 2011 and 31 st July, 2011. All the patients that presented with infertility within the study period were recruited into the study. Relevant demographic, clinical, and laboratory/radiological data were documented using a structured questionnaire. The patients had their case folders tagged and followed up to 31 st December 2011 (6 months). Data was analyzed using SPSS version 11. Results: A total of 1,264 new gynecological cases were seen during the study period, and 198 infertile patients were evaluated. The prevalence of infertility was 15.7%. Primary infertility constituted 32.8%, while secondary infertility was 67.2%. Previous history of evidence of genital infection including lower abdominal pain (78.8%) and vaginal discharge (76.6%) were common. Female gender-related causes of infertility accounted for 42.9%; male causes accounted for 19.7%. Both partners contributed to infertility in 16.7%, while no cause was found in 20.7% of patients. Conclusion: The study shows a dominance of secondary infertility with probable genital tract infection being a major contributor. Early presentation and prompt treatments of genital tract infections may reduce the prevalence of infertility in the study population.
  24,995 1,839 17
Differentiating acute epididymitis from testicular torsion using scrotal scintigraphy
Zabah Muhammad Jawa, Onyedika Okoye
July-September 2017, 20(3):89-92
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.223171  
Introduction: In patients with acute scrotal pain, differentiating acute epididymitis from testicular torsion should be made promptly and accurately, to treat the underlying cause correctly. Acute epididymitis is treated with a simple course of antibiotics while testicular torsion requires emergency surgical exploration to salvage the testis. The assessment of patients with acute scrotal pain is done mainly using color Doppler ultrasonography, which, however, requires skills and has limitations of being highly operator-dependent and uncomfortable to patients with scrotal pains because it may take too long to perform and often involves probe compression. Scrotal scintigraphy using 99m Tc-pertechnetate may provide an alternative reproducible, quick noninvasive and reliable nuclear medicine functional imaging technique that could be used in the evaluation of patients with acute scrotal pain. The aim of this study is to document our clinical experiences with the use of scrotal scintigraphy in differentiating acute epididymitis from testicular torsion in patients with acute scrotal pain. Material and Method: All scrotal scintigraphy performed in our institution between 2007 and 2015 were included in this study. Scrotal scintigraphy was performed after intravenous administration of 99m Tc-pertechnetate radiotracer and images were acquired using MEDISO dual-headed gamma camera. Acute epididymitis is diagnosed when there is increased blood flow on dynamic images and increased uptake around the region of the epididymis, while testicular torsion as decreased blood flow and photopenic area in the testis on dynamic and static images, respectively. The final diagnosis was documented based on relief of symptoms after a course of antibiotics or surgical exploration. Results: All patients were examined by urologist and only patients in whom the differentiation between acute epididymitis and torsion could not be made clinically were include in this study. A total of 21 patients were studied. There were 16 patients diagnosed with acute epididymitis and five patients with testicular torsion. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that scrotal scintigraphy is a simple, accurate, and effective functional imaging technique that can differentiate acute epididymitis from testicular torsion in selected patients presenting with acute scrotal pain.
  22,468 459 1
A descriptive study on dengue fever reported in a Medical College Hospital
Jimmy Antony, TM Celine
July-September 2014, 17(3):83-86
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.140285  
Background: Dengue fever is a serious public health problem in terms of its morbidity and mortality. It reports from almost all countries and it is endemic in the tropical countries. Aim: The present hospital study aims to describe  the frequency , distribution and case fatality of dengue fever based on the variables such as age, sex and year. Settings and Design: It is a hospital-based retrospective study of 5 years in tertiary care and teaching hospital in South India. Materials and Methods: The data were collected from the medical records department of the hospital and analyzed by using Microsoft excel. Result: Out of 341 reported cases of dengue, 60.70% were males and 39.29% were females. In both males and females, the high proportion of cases were reported in adult age groups (>20 years). Case fatality rate of dengue fever is 1.2%, with 0.97% in males and 1.49% in females. Out of 341 cases, 333 (97.65%) were Classical Dengue Fever and remaining 8 cases (2.34%) were dengue hemorrhagic fever. Conclusion: More cases of dengue fever were reported in the adult age group (20 years and above) and in males compared to low age groups (<20 years) and females. It highlights the involvement of work component in the occurrence of disease. Community-based action program is required for source reduction activities in the outdoor area for arresting the breeding and multiplication of Aedes mosquitoes and thereby to reduce the morbidity and mortality of dengue fever.
  21,011 1,184 11
Trends of measles in Nigeria: A systematic review
Jalal-Eddeen Abubakar Saleh
January-March 2016, 19(1):5-11
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.181887  
Background: Measles, a highly infectious viral disease, is endemic in developing countries with a peak of transmission from October to March. The case fatality rate of measles in the developing countries stands at around 3-5%; this could be as high as 10% during epidemics. Although natural infection with the measles virus confers life-long immunity, those vaccinated with the vaccine could get up to 10 years of protection. In spite of the availability of measles vaccines, there have been sporadic measles outbreaks, especially in developing countries, hence the need to know the underlying cause. Study Design: Systematic review. Method: Relevant literature was reviewed on trend of measles. The literature accessed from the W.H.O and UNICEF sites, and also using Google search include case-series studies, community-based studies on age-specific measles case fatality ratios (CFRs), and cohort analysis of surveillance data. Results: The review shows that lowest measles CFR is seen among the vaccinated children and highest seen among the unvaccinated children. Additionally, the broad range of case and death definitions of measles as well as the study population and geography, clearly highlight the complexities in extrapolating results for global public health planning. Conclusion: The outcome of several studies has shown that measles outbreaks are associated with factors that include: weak measles case-based surveillance in some areas, lack of awareness about the disease among parents, vaccine stock-out, and lack of adequate cold chain equipment to preserve the vaccine in remote hard-to-reach areas.
  19,447 1,382 11
The prevalence of genital Candida species among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in a tertiary health center in North-west Nigeria
Daniel Chukwunyere Nnadi, Swati Singh
January-March 2017, 20(1):33-37
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.204333  
Background: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common genital tract infection that affects the quality of life in many women. It is more prevalent in pregnancy and may lead to complications. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of VVC among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of a tertiary health institution in North-West Nigeria and to emphasize the need for accurate diagnosis and adequate treatment. Subjects and Methods: This is a 2-month cross-sectional study performed at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in association with the Department of Medical Microbiology of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto in North-Western Nigeria. It involved pregnant women at various periods of gestation presenting with vaginitis and selected by simple random sampling. A pair of high vaginal swabs was collected aseptically from the study subjects which was used for Gram's staining and inoculation into Sabouraud's dextrose agar (SDA). The samples were then cultured according to standard procedures on sterile SDA. Infection with Candida species was diagnosed by microscopy of a saline wet mount, Gram-stained smear and colony growth on SDA. Results: Of the 288 pregnant women sampled, 175 were positive for candidiasis giving a prevalence rate of 60.8%. The ages of the women ranged from 16 to 45 years with a mean of 26.8 (standard deviation ± 4.93). Pregnant women aged 26–30 years recorded the highest prevalence of 37.1% (65/175). The multigravidae were more affected 41.7% (120/288) than the primigravidae 19.1% (55/288). VVC showed a progressive increase with trimester of pregnancy. Candida albicans was the most prevalent species isolated in 73.7% of the women. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of VVC among pregnant women in our institution. There is need to educate the women on genital hygiene and practice of regular screening for candidiasis in our antenatal program.
  18,688 1,100 -
Prevalence of diabetes mellitus and its risk factors among the suburban population of Northwest Nigeria
Anas Ahmad Sabir, Salisu Balarabe, Abubakar Atta Sani, Simeon A Isezuo, Kabiru Sada Bello, Abdulgafar O Jimoh, Sandra O Iwuala
October-December 2017, 20(4):168-172
DOI:10.4103/smj.smj_47_16  
Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) was previously considered to be rare in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the prevalence is on the increase mainly because of urbanization and changes in lifestyle. Aim: The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of DM and its correlates in the suburban population of Northwest Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional community-based study was carried out. Two hundred and eighty participants were recruited using a multistage sampling technique. Interviewer-administered questionnaire was utilized in obtaining demographic data from the participants. Anthropometric variables, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and blood pressure measured using standard guidelines. The diagnosis of DM was based on the WHO guidelines. Results: The mean age was 42.3 ± 10.7 years. The overall prevalence of DM was 4.3% (males 4.5% and females 4.0%). The mean FPG was higher in the females (5.9 ± 1.2 mmol/L) than males (5.8 ± 2.5 mmol/L) though the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.81). Obesity and increasing age were the major risk factors for DM among the suburban population. Conclusion: DM is common in suburban areas of Northwest Nigeria. We recommend increased awareness of the epidemic potential of this public health problem even in suburban areas.
  17,882 1,161 13
Prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes of obstructed labor at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri, Nigeria
Babagana Bako, Emmanuel Barka, Abubakar A Kullima
July-September 2018, 21(3):117-121
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.242748  
Introduction: Obstructed labor is a common cause of feto-maternal morbidity and mortality in Maiduguri, Nigeria. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, causes, risk factors, and outcome of obstructed labor at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective observational study of all cases of obstructed labor managed from January 2012 to December 2014 at the UMTH, Maiduguri, Nigeria. For each case, the next woman who delivered without obstruction was used as a control. Data were analyzed for sociodemographic variables, labor, delivery and postdelivery events using SPSS version 20.0. The Chi-square test and odds ratio (OR) were used and statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Results: The prevalence of obstructed labor was 2.13%. Cephalopelvic disproportion, persistent occipitoposterior position, and malpresentation were seen in 65.37%, 16.58%, and 11.71%, respectively. The risk factors were teenage pregnancy (χ2: 26.96, P < 0.0001, OR: 4.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.45–8.05), nulliparity (χ2: 50.70, P < 0.0001, OR: 4.63, 95% CI: 2.99–7.15), illiteracy (χ2:53.91, P < 0.0001, OR: 5.26, 95% CI: 3.31–8.33), and unbooked status (χ2: 113.26, P < 0.0001 OR: 11.9, 95% CI: 7.24–19.61). Complications were observed in 37.56% of the women with obstructed labor. The common morbidities were wound sepsis, ruptured uterus, and puerperal sepsis, seen in 16.59%, 13.17%, and 7.81%, respectively. The case fatality rate was 0.98% and perinatal mortality was 34.15%. Conclusion: Obstructed labor is common in Maiduguri. We recommend amelioration of the risk factors through advocacy, girl child education, and public enlightenment on the need for antenatal care and hospital delivery, identification, and referral of high-risk patients.
  16,860 1,012 9
Factors responsible for under-utilization of postnatal care services in Maiduguri, north-eastern Nigeria
Idris Usman Takai, Haruna Dantaro Dlakwa, Mohammed Bukar, Bala Mohammed Audu, Aliyu Salihu Kwayabura
July-September 2015, 18(3):109-115
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.169282  
Background: In Maiduguri, the utilization of available postnatal care services is still very low. This may be influenced by demographic, socioeconomic, cultural, and obstetric factors among others. Objective: The aim of this study is to understand the current status of utilization of maternal postnatal health care services and identify factors responsible for under.utilization of available postnatal care services in Maiduguri. Materials and Methods: A. cross.sectional, questionnaire.based study was conducted involving 350 women in their reproductive age group. (15.49. years), who had delivered previously, residing in Maiduguri and who came to access any of the available maternal health care services at the State Specialist Hospital, Maiduguri over a 3.month period. The Chi.squared statistics and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used. Results: Out of the grand total of 350 questionnaires that were distributed during the study period, 18 questionnaires were excluded from analysis due to incomplete responses, 332 with complete responses were therefore analyzed, giving a response rate of 94.9%. The results showed that only 16.9% of the respondents attended postnatal care services within 42. days after delivery. Most of the mothers. (60.9%) were not knowledgeable about postnatal care services. A. very high proportion of participants. (69.4%) did not attend antenatal clinics, and over. 70% of the study population had delivered at home. The study has identified some factors that have an important influence on utilization of postnatal care services in Maiduguri. These included awareness of postnatal care services. (odds ratio. [OR] 12.04, 95% confidence interval. [CI]: 10.26, P =. 0.000), higher educational status of the woman. (OR 7.15, 95% CI: 5.19, P =0.000), lower parity. (OR 5.22, 95% CI: 3.21, P = 0.001) and marital status. (married woman.OR 3.44, 95% CI: 2.17, P =0.002). Educational attainment of the husband also significantly affected the respondents' seeking behavior of postnatal care. (OR 2.01, 95% CI: 1.13, P =0.042). Conclusion: Utilization of postnatal care services is quite low in Maiduguri. Socioeconomic and sociodemographic factors influenced the use of postnatal care services. Government should provide culturally acceptable health educational programs and expands maternal health care services into the communities for the better, effective and efficient health care delivery.
  16,631 1,143 13
Sociodemographic factors associated with the healthcare-seeking behavior of heads of households in a rural community in Southern Nigeria
Vincent Yakubu Adam, Adesuwa Queen Aigbokhaode
January-March 2018, 21(1):31-36
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.232781  
Objective: This study identified the factors associated with the healthcare-seeking behavior of heads of households in a rural community in Southern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2014 among 410 household heads in Ivhiunone, Fugar in Edo State, Nigeria using two-staged sampling technique. Data collection was by means of a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. IBM SPSS version 20 and PEPI version 4.0 were used for data analysis. Results: Over three-quarters of the respondents, 357 (87.1%) and 346 (84.4%) were males and married. The mean age of respondents was 49.5 ± 15.9 years. The majority of the respondents, 180 (43.9%) and 208 (50.7%) had a secondary level of education and were in the skill level 1 occupational classification. Almost all 406 (98.8%) respondents sought healthcare when ill, and of these, 399 (98.3%) use medications given. The preferred place to seek healthcare when ill by 373 (91.9%) of the respondents was patent medicine stores. Predictors of healthcare-seeking behavior included marital status, level of education and income. Other associated factors were age, sex, and occupational classification. Conclusion: The sociodemographic predictors of healthcare-seeking behavior included marital status, level of education and income. Other associated factors were age, sex, and occupation. Most of the household heads preferred home treatment and sought healthcare in patent medicine stores and hospitals. Improved quality of care provided to clients/patients in healthcare facilities could address the inappropriate healthcare-seeking behavior in the community.
  15,940 1,170 14
Submucosal diathermy in inferior turbinate hypertrophy: Review of 12 cases in Benin City
Amina Lami Okhakhu, Festus Oritsemajemite Ogisi
April-June 2015, 18(2):71-73
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.160802  
Background: Nasal obstruction is a very common Ear, Nose, and Throat outpatient problem. We report a case series illustrating the safety and clinical effectiveness of submucous diathermy (SMD) in the treatment of medically refractory nasal obstruction caused by hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate. Methods: Consecutive patients presenting over a 5-year period with medically refractory nasal obstruction secondary to hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate were offered SMD as a technique for turbinate reduction. Subjective symptom score of the degree of obstruction was assessed preoperatively and 3 and 12 months postoperatively. Results: A total of 12 adults aged between 18 and 42 years with a mean age of 27.8 years, consented to SMD for turbinate reduction. The patients all had subjective improvement in their nasal airways postoperatively. Subjective symptom score declined to 66.7% by the 1 st postoperative year. Recurrence of symptoms of nasal obstruction occurred earlier in patients with allergy. The complications encountered included intranasal adhesions and crusting which was amenable to adhesiolysis with stenting and regular saline douching of the nasal cavity. Conclusion: SMD of the inferior turbinate is an effective and safe way of treating nasal obstruction secondary to hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate.
  16,433 388 -
Breast cancer mortality in a resource-poor country: A 10-year experience in a tertiary institution
Said Mohammed Amin, Henry Azuh S Ewunonu, Emmanuel Oguntebi, Idris Mohammed Liman
July-September 2017, 20(3):93-97
DOI:10.4103/smj.smj_64_15  
Introduction: Breast cancer is a major global public health problem accounting for massive morbidity and significant mortality worldwide. Factors contributing to breast cancer mortality have been a topic of intense research and discussion in the scientific world. There is, however, a dearth of information on the incidence of breast cancer mortality in most resource-poor countries including Nigeria. Available data from most African workers on breast cancer focused on incidence, risk factors, and complications rather than mortality. The unique ethnic heterogeneity of Abuja and its peculiar lifestyle (as compared to other Nigerian cities) provides added impetus for assessing breast cancer mortality in one of the Nigeria's fastest growing cities. This study is carried out in a 400-bedded public tertiary hospital in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of all breast samples in the department of histopathology over a decade is performed supported by clinical information from the medical record archives. Results: Of 2292 breast samples received in the department, 35.3% (n = 810) are malignant out of which 10.6% (n = 86) died. Breast cancer incidence increased from 29 in 2005 to 141 by 2013 while mortality declined from 11 to 9 over the same period. A crude fatality rate of 3.7% is observed. The ages of the decedents ranged from 20 to 90 years with a mean of 43.5 years. Infiltrative ductal carcinoma accounts for the largest mortality with 87.4%. Conclusion: Breast cancer is an important cause of mortality among females and efforts at early detection and treatment should be intensified.
  14,900 893 9
Knowledge and prevalence of diarrheal disease in a suburban community in north western Nigeria
Victoria Nanben Omole, Teyil Mary Wamyil-Mshelia, Ramatu Aliyu-Zubair, Onyemocho Audu, Abdulrazak A Gobir, Bilkisu Nwankwo
July-September 2019, 22(3):114-120
DOI:10.4103/smj.smj_50_18  
Background: Diarrheal disease is the second leading cause of under-five mortality, accounting for 700,000–800,000 preventable deaths, globally. Most of these occur in rural and suburban areas of developing countries. Correct knowledge about the dynamics of the disease is crucial in arresting and reversing its prevalence. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of diarrheal disease in a suburban community and explore the knowledge of the disease among mothers of children <5 years of age therein. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted among 350 mothers of under-fives in a suburban community. Respondents were selected by multistage sampling method and interviewed using interviewer-administered, closed-ended questionnaires. Results: About 89.4% of the respondents had correct perception of the definition of diarrhea. Over 60% of them had correct knowledge of the cause (s) of diarrheal disease, and none was ignorant of the potential complications. Both point and period prevalences for the disease were 13.14% and 30.29%, respectively, and these were relatively higher than local, regional, and national values. Conclusion: The good knowledge of diarrheal disease observed among respondents was not reflected in the unacceptably high prevalence and frequency of the disease. This may be attributable to the challenges of poor water sources and insanitary environmental conditions. Public health interventions are recommended with particular attention to environmental sanitation and water supply in suburban and rural communities.
  14,277 851 4
Ritual hot bath (wankan jego) in Kano: Are they still practicing? What are the implications?
Ayyuba Rabiu, Ibrahim Garba, Idris Sulaiman Abubakar
October-December 2016, 19(4):215-219
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.196368  
Background: Postpartum ritual hot bath is one of the harmful cultural beliefs commonly practiced in Northern Nigeria. It is linked with health hazards especially among women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study conducted among 199 pregnant women over the period of 3 months. Ethical approval was obtained from The Kano State Ethical Committee. Questionnaire was administered among consenting pregnant women. Information on sociodemographic characteristics and practice of hot bath was obtained. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 17 computer software (SPSS Inc., SPSS Statistics for Windows, Chicago, IL, USA). Results: One hundred and ninety-nine pregnant women were recruited for the survey. The mean age ± standard deviation was 28.09 ± 5.55 years. The rate of hot bath was 56.80% and the days spent taking the hot bath ranged from 4 to 40 days. An average of 195.41 ± 96.050 Naira was spent on firewood per day for the hot bath. The method of boiling the water was mainly the use of firewood 87 (78.40%). They mainly used leaves 76 (68.50%) and towel 35 (31.50%) for bathing. The responsibility of the cost of the hot bath was mainly on husband 102 (91.90%). The hot bath was enforced mainly by the parents 68 (61.30%). Up to 82 (73.90%) of the respondents were ready to abandon the hot bath if alternatives such as drugs are provided. Conclusion: The prevalence rate of hot bath was 56.80%. The burden of its financial implications lies mainly on husbands leading to other social and financial problems.
  14,227 466 4
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Socio-demographic and Anthropometric risk factors for Type 2 diabetes in Maiduguri, North-Eastern Nigeria
ID Gezawa, FH Puepet, BM Mubi, AE Uloko, B Bakki, MA Talle, I Haliru
January-March 2015, 18(5):1-7
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.149495  
Background: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is on the increase in developing countries due to urbanization, ageing population, physical inactivity and the high prevalence of obesity. Identifying the risk factors for T2DM is a necessary step in the planning of preventive measures to reduce the burden of the disease. The aim of this study was to determine the socio-demographic and anthropometric risk factors for type 2 diabetes in Maiduguri, northeastern Nigeria. Methods: We randomly selected 242 subjects resident in the study location. Trained interviewers obtained socio-demographic data from each respondent using a pretested questionnaire. Physical measurements for anthropometric indices were carried out using standard methods. Fasting blood samples were collected for the determination of fasting plasma glucose and diagnosis of diabetes. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16 for windows and a P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: All the 242 subjects recruited for the study responded. The mean (SD) age of 96 (39.7%) males and 146 (60.3%) females was 40.0 (14.6) years and 41.5 (12.0) years respectively, P > 0.05.The crude prevalence of diabetes was 17 (7.0%). The prevalence was 10(10.4%) in males and 7(4.8%) in females (M: F = 2.1:1), P < 0.05. The independent risk factors for diabetes identified were increasing age (OR = 3.72, 95% CI = 0.83-16.7, P = 0.007) and waist circumference in both males (OR = 1.65, 95% CI = 0.75-3.63, P = 0.036). and females (OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 0.56-4.78, P = 0.025). Conclusion: We identified increasing age and waist circumference to be the independent risk factors for T2DM in Maiduguri, Northeastern Nigeria.
  9,452 4,444 14
ORIGINAL ARTICLES
Clinico-pathologic spectrum of accessory axillary breast; case series and literature review
Usman Bello, Samaila Modupeola Omotara
July-September 2017, 20(3):129-133
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.223167  
Accessory breast and the diseases affecting these aberrant breast tissues are relatively uncommon, and with variable prevalence among different populations. These are commonly located in the axilla, chest wall, and vulva. The most common disease in these tissues is carcinoma; however, other benign neoplastic and nonneoplastic lesions do occur. In this review, we present a clinicopathologic analysis of all the consecutive cases seen in a major referral teaching hospital over a period spanning 10 years (2006–2015).
  13,065 504 -
Cord care education and its content given to mothers at antenatal clinics in various health facilities in Edo state, Nigeria
Blessing I Abhulimhen-Iyoha, Michael O Ibadin
July-September 2015, 18(3):129-133
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.169278  
Introduction: Hygienic umbilical cord care is necessary for the well-.being of the newborn. Health education is a strong tool for lifestyle modification aimed at healthy living. This ought to extend to mothers who care for their infants' umbilical cord stump in various ways especially after discharge from hospital. The content of health education on cord care given to mothers (if any) at various health institutions which they accessed for antenatal care is thus worth evaluating. Objective: To evaluate the content of health education on cord care given to mothers at various health facilities which served as their places of antenatal care in Benin City, Nigeria. Methods: The study subjects included mothers who brought their babies to Well Baby/Immunization Clinic of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to assess their biodata, places of antenatal care, whether health education on cord care constituted part of the services received in health facilities and the content of the cord care education. Results: Of the 497 subjects studied, 487 (98.0%) received antenatal care (ANC) in both orthodox and unorthodox facilities. Amongst these, 352 (72.3%) received health education on cord care while 135 (27.7%) did not. Teaching and private hospitals contributed 116 (48.9%) and 103 (43.5%) respectively to the total documentation of the advice concerning use of methylated spirit alone. The relationship between content of health education on cord care and method of cord care practiced by mothers was statistically significant. Conclusion: Health education on cord care is lacking in some of our health facilities and where available, content may not be evidence-.based. We must equip health workers with facts required to enlighten patients. A standard and universal method of cord care should be adopted to reduce or abolish the confusion which mothers presently encounter in caring for their babies' umbilical cords.
  12,831 697 5
Prevalence of trichomoniasis among pregnant women in Benin City
Frederick Olusegun Akinbo, Cynthia Nwabu Mokobia, Adedapo Babatunde Anibaba Ande
April-June 2017, 20(2):67-71
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.215037  
Background: Trichomonas vaginalis has been recognized as a cosmopolitan parasite of male and female genital tract. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic trichomoniasis among pregnant women in Benin City, Edo State. Materials and Methods: A total of 300 patients and subjects consisting of 250 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics and 50 non-pregnant apparently healthy subjects who served as controls were recruited in this study. The age ranged from 20 to 40 years. High vaginal swab was collected from each participant and T. vaginalis was diagnosed by microscopy. Results: An overall prevalence of 2.8% of trichomoniasis was observed among pregnant women. Gestational age and educational status of pregnant women were significantly associated with the prevalence of trichomoniasis. Conclusion: Asymptomatic T. vaginalis infection is common in pregnancy. We recommend routine screening for this infection in order to reduce the potential adverse pregnancy outcomes.
  12,818 705 3
Effect of plasma storage on prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time at a Nigerian public laboratory
Mohammed A Ndakotsu, Abdul-Aziz Hassan, Abubakar U Musa, Yazid B Gusau, Ibrahim K Kwaifa
January-March 2013, 16(1):1-4
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.112038  
Background: Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) are the tests used in the investigation and monitoring of hemostatic disorders. Plasma is used to perform these tests immediately or stored for later use. The time and storage temperature have been shown to affect the results of these tests. Thus, all coagulation laboratories need guidelines for plasma storage to ensure reliable results. Objective: To determine the effect of varying storage times and temperatures on plasma PT and APTT. Materials and Methods: PT and APTT were run on plasma from 40 healthy adults using a semi-automated coagulometer. PT and APTT were measured at 0, 4, 6, and 24 h on samples stored at room temperature, refrigerated samples, and frozen samples. The values at 0 h were compared with the values at 4, 6, and 24 h. Results: PT and APTT values were within the reference ranges at 0 h. For refrigerated plasma, PT values at 4 h were within normal, but at 6 and 24 h, they were significantly deranged (P < 0.05). PT was significantly different at 4, 6, and 24 h for both room temperature and frozen plasma (P < 0.05). The APTT showed significant differences between 0 h value and values at 4, 6, and 24 h for all the varying temperature conditions. Conclusion: For reliable PT and APTT results, samples should be processed and run immediately after collection. However, plasma for PT can be stored at 2°-4°C for only 4 h.
  12,718 759 1
Prevalence and pattern of unintentional domestic accidents and trauma amongst children attending public hospitals in Kano, Nigeria
Sanusi Abubakar, Abdulazeez Ahmed, Zubaida Farouk, Mukhtar Gadanya, Mustapha Lawal Jimoh
January-March 2018, 21(1):6-12
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.232787  
Background: Unintentional injury remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children worldwide. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, prevalence, and practices toward the prevention of domestic accidents and injuries among caregivers of under-five in Kano, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Three hospitals located within Kano metropolis were chosen because they are the main referral hospitals located strategically in three local government areas and well patronized by the populace as evidenced by their patient turnover. Respondents (caregivers) were selected for administration of the questionnaires using systematic sampling technique based on the order of their presentation at the emergency pediatric unit (EPU). Results: Overall prevalence of domestic accidents in the three hospitals in the study was 13.7%. The mean age of caregivers was 29.6 ± 9.7 years and the majority of them were female 81.3%. Nearly 64.6% have formal education out of which 27.8% have up to tertiary education and most with at least five and above under-five under their care, with mean ages of the under-five children of 2.87 ± 2.82 years. Only 7.7% of the respondents had an overall good knowledge of domestic accident and injuries. Kerosene poisoning was the commonest domestic accident reported (34.4%) followed by falls (17.5%). Significantly, 30% of respondents had good practice toward domestic accident prevention largely due to preventive behaviors such as self-motivation (9.7%) and perceived danger (41.5%). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that domestic accidents especially those involving kerosene is common among children aged less than 5 years in a large sized family.
  12,770 662 4
Headache associated with sexual activity: From the benign to the life threatening
Frank Aiwansoba Imarhiagbe
January-March 2016, 19(1):1-4
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.181886  
Background: Neurologic syndromes like headache may on occasion complicate sexual activity. Though largely benign, the headache may seldom be a symptom of an underlying sinister and life threatening neurologic disorder such as aneurysmal subarachnoid heamorrhage. Method: Relevant published materials on the subject of headache associated with sexual intercourse and their cross references from Pubmed Medline, Cochrane Library, International Headache society, EMBASE and other relevant bibliographic repositories were ferreted since 1980 till date. Result: HAS is mainly a diagnosis of exclusion. The secondary or malignant form has a course that is dictated by its underlying cause. HAS in the primary or benign form is amenable to treatment with drugs including indomethacin, propranolol and calcium channel blockers (nimodipine, verapamil and diltiazem) with excellent prognosis. Conclusion: Early evaluation for underlying cause of HAS and institution of appropriate treatment is recommended.
  12,569 514 2
Presentation and outcome of snake bite among children in Sokoto, North-Western Nigeria
Usman M Sani, Nma M Jiya, Paul K Ibitoye, Mohamad M Ahmad
October-December 2013, 16(4):148-153
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.125557  
Background: Snake bite with envenomation is a medical emergency. Children are at risk of severe manifestations due to small body mass. Unlike adult population, there is limited data on snake bite among children in Sokoto, North-Western Nigeria. We described the presentation and outcome of snake bite in children presenting to the Emergency Pediatric Unit of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto. Materials and Methods: Case records of all children managed for snake bites from 1 st January 2003 to 31 st December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic and other relevant information were retrieved and data analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results: Out of 23,570 Pediatric admissions, 36 children had snake bites giving prevalence of 0.0015 (1.5/1000). Male: Female ratio was 1.6:1, with a mean (standard deviation) age of 9.6 ± 2.8 years (range = 1-14 years). Snakebites involved the lower limbs in 52.8%; and at home in 69.4%, and during the night in 58.3% of patients. The highest prevalence of bite was between April and July. Features of envenomation included local swelling (100%), prolonged clotting time (61.1%) and spontaneous hemorrhage (epistaxis and hematemesis) in 11.1%. One patient (2.8%) had seizure which may be incidental, though common causes such as hypoglycemia, malaria and meningitis were excluded by laboratory investigations. Polyvalent anti-snake venom was administered in 29 (80.6%) children, with adverse reaction observed in 13.8% (4/29) of the patients. Thirteen patients (36.1%) signed against medical advice while the remaining 23 (63.9%) were discharged home. Conclusion: Snake envenomation is associated with low morbidity and mortality in our study. Measures aimed at eliminating snake habitats around residential areas should be encouraged.
  11,881 784 7
Test-retest reliability of a questionnaire to assess the knowledge and attitude of dental students toward tobacco counseling services
AO Ehizele, CC Azodo
January-March 2013, 16(1):28-31
DOI:10.4103/1118-8561.112066  
Objective: To determine the test-retest reliability of a new questionnaire designed to assess the attitude of students in a Nigerian dental school to tobacco cessation services. Materials and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was administered twice at 4 weeks interval to the same set of final year dental students (N = 36) in one of the Nigerian dental schools. Ten questions were randomly selected from the 35-item questionnaire. Intra-class correlation (ICC) coefficients at 95% confidence interval were computed for each selected item and the Cronbach's alpha coefficients were calculated to assess the internal consistency of the questionnaire. Results: The results showed that the least Cronbach's alpha value was 0.49 and the highest was 0.98. Only two items had less than a substantial agreement level (<0.60) and seven items had an almost perfect agreement level (>0.80). The results also indicated that the ICC coefficient is very highly statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The questionnaire demonstrated adequate test-retest reliability to assess the attitude of dental students to tobacco cessation services.
  11,100 616 -
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