Knowledge of final year undergraduate nursing students about HIV and AIDS in Eswatini

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are overwhelming health issues globally. They have caused many devastating and draining health issues, which have escalated a critical need for a well-trained and sustainable healthcare workforce in order to meet the needs of people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA). Health science students are the future healthcare providers who will implement proper preventive measures, as well as health educational and promotional sessions to promote information and knowledge among the public regarding HIV and AIDS in Eswatini. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted on 140 final-year undergraduate nursing students in three nursing universities in Eswatini. A questionnaire adapted from Othman and Ali in Malaysia with closed-ended questions was modified and used to collect data. The questionnaire consisted of questions on the virus structure, transmission, prevention and management of HIV and AIDS. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 was utilised to analyse the data. Results: The level of knowledge about HIV and AIDS was high, as evidenced by a mean score and standard deviation of (91.02 ± 5.00). However, there were low scores on questions related to the transmission of the disease. Conclusion: Across all three universities in Eswatini, there were good nursing education programs on HIV and AIDS, evidenced by the high knowledge level about HIV and AIDS. However, there are still some knowledge gaps on HIV and AIDS transmission and management that need to be attended to contribution: This study contributed by providing knowledge of undergraduate nursing students' HIV and AIDS training and management of PLWHA.

Hyperhomocysteinemia and folate levels in normal healthy Nigerians living in Zaria: Subanalysis of ABU homocysteine cross-sectional survey

Background: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia and folate status in a sample of normal healthy Nigerians living in Zaria as well as assess the relationship between homocysteine, folate, and blood pressure (BP) levels. Methods: It was a cross-sectional analytical study carried out among 65 normal healthy volunteers aged 18­65 years. Participants were randomly selected from willing patient escorts, hospital employees, and willing staff presenting at the Ahmadu Bello University Medical Centre, Zaria and Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria. The percentage of participants who had high homocysteine levels as well as their plasma folate status was determined. Results: There were 9.2% with hyperhomocysteinemia >15 µmol/L and 51% with hyperhomocysteinemia >10 µmol/L. The mean plasma homocysteine level was 10.8 ± 2.7 µmol/L with male and female values of 10.7 ± 2.6 and 10.8 ± 2.8, respectively (P = 0.87). The mean plasma folate level was high (116.7 ± 44.0 ng/mL) with male value of (111.5 ± 44.9 ng/mL) which did not differ significantly (P = 0.37) from that of females (121.4 ± 43.3 ng/mL). Homocysteine showed a positive significant (P = 0.01) relationship with folate but not with BP's (P > 0.05). Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in normal healthy Northern-Nigerians which cannot be accounted for by suboptimal folate levels. Hyperhomocysteinemia may not be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease in normal healthy Nigerians despite its high levels as it showed no significant relationship with BP

Determinants of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin d levels in healthy young adults living in the Western Cape, South Africa

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is fast emerging as a global pandemic. In South Africa few studies have been conducted to determine the vitamin D status of the healthy population.Methods: This prospective study with an analytical component investigated vitamin D status of healthy undergraduate students at two time points (winter and summer) at Stellenbosch University. Serum 25(OH)D was determined, anthropometric measurements taken and dietary vitamin D intake estimated (food-frequency questionnaire). Skin tone was determined (Fitzpatrick skin type classification), and a skin reflectometry device used to measure dermal melanin content.Results: Results of 242 students indicated a mean serum 25(OH)D of 63.80 ± 41.35 ng/ml and a high prevalence of vitamin D sufficiency (88%). Significantly more females experienced suboptimal vitamin D levels than males (18 vs. 5%; p < 0.01). Participants with lighter skin tones had higher levels of 25(OH)D than those with darker skin tones (chi-square = 24.02; p = 0.02). The majority (60.74%) had a normal BMI, although there was no significant relationship between BMI and serum 25 (OH)D (Spearman's r=­0.11; p = 0.09). Total mean dietary vitamin D intake was 7.99 ± 13.81 mcg, with 87.2% having inadequate intake (< 15 mcg). The relationship between total vitamin D intake and serum 25(OH)D was found to be significant in winter (p < 0.001) and summer (p = 0.01). Serum vitamin D levels were significantly higher in the winter phase (p < 0.001).Conclusions: A low prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was found amongst healthy young adults, despite low dietary vitamin D intakes. Significant relationships were found between serum 25(OH)D and gender, skin tone and vitamin D intake. Further studies need to be conducted, especially in high-risk groups, before results are applied to the greater South African public

Diabetes in older adults: experience from a rural community in south-east Nigeria

Diabetes is increasing globally with low- and middleincome countries bearing the greatest burden and the older population most affected. This study sought to highlight the problem of diabetes among older adults who participated in a health programme in a rural community. Fasting blood glucose levels and blood pressure of 147 people, aged between 40 years and above, in a rural community in south-east Nigeria were measured. The mean age of participants was 62±10y (1.SD) Thirty-seven (25.2%) were diabetic, 16 (43%) of which were undiagnosed. Most (67%) were aged 50 to 69 years. Twelve (8.2%) had impaired fasting glycaemia (IFG), of which 83% were aged 60 to 79 years. Male gender was moderately associated with the risk of diabetes, while family history was strongly associated. Twenty-five (67%) of the 37 diabetic patients were hypertensive, and only one (5%) of the 21 with known diabetes had a fasting glucose <7.0 mmol/L. This report showed a high prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes and impaired fasting glycaemia among these participants in a rural health programme. There is a strong implication for robust studies to validate these findings and an urgent need to improve access to healthcare for rural dwellers

Application of the Information; Motivation and Behavioural Skills Model for Targeting HIV Risk Behaviour amongst Adolescent Learners in South Africa

This paper discusses the application of an information; motivation and behavioural skills (IMB) model in a school-based programme for the reduction of HIV risk behaviour among 259 Grade 11 learners in two high schools in Alexandra township; Johannesburg. School 1 was the Experimental group; while School 2 was the Control group. After a baseline study (Time 1) at both schools; a 3-week intervention programme was conducted at School 1. A post-test (Time 2) was conducted at both schools. The intervention was repeated at School 2; followed by another post-test (Time 3) at both schools. A final test (Time 4) was conducted at both schools. While there were positive changes in the levels of HIVetAIDS IMB in learner participants; these changes may not be entirely attributed to the intervention. If an IMB model-based intervention is to be maximally effective in reducing HIV-risk behaviour among adolescents; it must focus on the behavioural; structural and socio-cultural contexts in which adolescents live

Perceptions of the Availability and Effectiveness of HIV/AIDS Awareness and Intervention Programmes by People with Disabilities in Uganda

The World Health Organization has recommended collaborative activities between TB and HIV programmes with routine counselling and testing for HIV among TB patients in order to improve the uptake of HIV services. We carried out qualitative research interviews with 21 TB patients in four selected TB and HIV/AIDS treatment centres in the Northwest Region of Cameroon to explore the facilitators and barriers to HIV testing. The desire to be healthy and live longer from knowing one's status inspired by the anticipated support from loved ones; faith in a supreme being; influence and trust in the medical authority; encouraged HIV testing. Men also demonstrated their masculinity by testing; thus portraying themselves as positive role models for other men. Meanwhile; the overwhelming burden of facing both TB and HIV simultaneously; influenced by the fear of disclosure of results; harmful gender norms and practices; fear of stigma and discrimination; and misconceptions surrounding HIV/AIDS deterred HIV testing. However; as a result of conflicting emotional experiences regarding to test or not to test; the decision-making process was not straightforward and this complex process needs to be acknowledged by health care providers when advocating for routine HIV testing among TB patients

Patient Satisfaction with Quality of Primary Health Care in Benghazi; Libya

Introduction: The Libyan National Health System (LNHS) is debated for the paradox of its performance versus impact. It has poor performance; but the national health statistics are good and competitive. There are concerted efforts to manage health care services and to regain the lost trust. A primary health care (PHC) system that focuses on preventive and promotive care is the core focus of LNHS efforts. Objectives: To assess patient satisfaction with quality of PHC assessed in terms of (a) customer profile; (b) patient satisfaction; and (c) health care-seeking behavior. Methodology: A sample of nine health centers and seven polyclinics from various locations in Benghazi; Libya were selected for gathering information by structured face-to-face interviews. A total of 310 beneficiaries were interviewed by using an Arabic translation of the Charleston Psychiatric Outpatient Satisfaction Scale. Results: The beneficiaries appear to be quite satisfied with the quality of services. Geographical zone; marital status of beneficiary; and type of facility are satisfaction-related factors. There are preferences for facilities located within the City Centre over those located elsewhere. There is also an interaction effect of the geographical zone and the type of facility in creating differences in satisfaction. Conclusions: A customer-friendly facility concept that emphasizes reception; physician interaction; and cordiality shall add value. Polyclinics require more attention as does the Al Slawy area. A few utility services might also be considered

Use and Neglect of Best-Practice HIV/AIDS Programme Guides by South African Companies

Numerous guidelines set out best-practice policies for HIV/AIDS interventions in the workplace. This study analysed 14 recognised codes and guidelines to gain an understanding of the theoretical consensus regarding the key components of best-practice workplace HIV/AIDS interventions. Nine key components of best practice were drawn from the analysis; interviews aimed to verify these components by determining the extent to which HIV/AIDS practitioners in South Africa share a similar understanding of best practice. Participants in a research questionnaire and semi-structured interviews included managers responsible for company HIV/AIDS programmes; HIV/AIDS experts; consultants; and disease management service providers. There was a high level of agreement between the practitioners who were interviewed and the codes and guidelines that were analysed concerning what best practice entails. However; reported usage of the recognised codes and guidelines to inform workplace HIV/AIDS interventions was low. Although large companies in South Africa may recognise certain interventions as examples of best practice; it appears that these are not being readily implemented. This appears to be partly because the cost-benefit of a recommended intervention is not immediately apparent or conclusive; and also because the concept of best practice with respect to workplace HIV/AIDS interventions is not yet fully accepted

Evidence analysis and advocacy for equity the perspectives of Malawi Health Equity Network

"This paper presents a synopsis of experiences of Malawi Health Equity Network; in its work to deepen the evidence and strengthen the platform for civic participation in the promotion of equitable health services in Malawi. The Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN) is a non-profit independent alliance of Civil Society Organizations and other interested parties promoting equity and quality in health for all people in Malawi; by influencing policy and practice; through research; monitoring; information dissemination; advocacy and civic education. MHEN's vision is for ""All people in Malawi to have access to equitable; quality and responsive essential health care services by the year 2020 with Malawi Health Equity Network as the 'Health Equity Watch'."" MHEN was formed in 2000 when the Health Advocacy Network and Malawi EQUINET merged; since both organizations had similar goals and objectives. The Network is legally registered under the laws of Malawi. MHEN seeks to address health inequalities that are avoidable and unfair. In line with this; the Network activities are geared towards influencing redistribution of social resources; which include skilled human resources within the Public Health Sector; and the power and ability of people at the grassroots level to make choices over health inputs; thus building their capacity to use these choices to improve their health status."

AIDS in Africa: three scenarios to 2025

This book is intended to deepen people's understanding of the possible course of the AIDS epidemic in Africa over the next 20 years; its context and impacts and how particular may shape Africa's future

Composantes et axes prioritaires 1997-1998

La reponse a l'epidemie du Sida s'inscrit dans une perspective de developpement; un accompagnement des populations dans la recherche d'un mieux etre ainsi que leur implication dans des activites pour ameliorer leurs conditions de vie. La demarche d'enda et de ses partenaires s'articule autour de la recherche (socio-comportementale et d'impact); de l'action (d'information; de mobilisation communautaire; de plaidoyer; d'influence des politiques et decisions; des niveaux d'appui et d'organisation des reseaux) et de formation (des relais; leaders communautaires et decideurs. Ce rapport se divise en trois parties : partie une : composantes du programme ; partie deux : Reseaux et partenariats ; partie trois : Axes prioritaires 1997-1998