Factors associated with depression among war-affected population in Northeast, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Depression is the most common mental health outcome of exposure to war-related traumatic stressors. Due to inter-communal conflict, Dessie City residents have experienced prolonged armed conflict in 2021. This conflict leads to widespread violence, negative impact on mental health, and large-scale forced migration. However, the problem is not properly addressed in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of depression in the war-affected area in Dessie City, Ethiopia. METHOD: A cross-sectional study design was conducted among 785 participants in 2022. The study subjects were selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling technique. The outcome measures used in the study were validated with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Data was entered using Epi-data version 3.1 and SPSS version 25 was used to analyze data. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were done to identify factors related to depression. In multivariable logistic regression variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were considered significant and, adjusted OR (AOR) with 95% CI was used to present the strength of the association. RESULT: The prevalence of depression among participants was found to be 24.5% (95% CI,21.7, 27.5). In multivariable analysis, post-traumatic stress disorder (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI 1.76-4.43), middle-perceived life threats (AOR = 8.25, 95% CI 2.47-17.49), low social support (AOR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.23-2.96) were variables significantly associated with depression. CONCLUSION: This study found a high prevalence of depression among Dessie City residents. post-traumatic stress disorder, middle-perceived life threats, and low social support were associated with depression. Interventional strategies should be implemented to promote healing, resilience, and the overall well-being of individuals and communities. However, the findings underscore the need to address the current lack of mental health care resources in post-conflict populations.

Problematic coffee use and associated factors among medical and health science students in Dilla University, Ethiopia.

Objective: Coffee holds a cherished place in Ethiopian culture, its consumption among students raises concerns despite its perceived benefits for alertness and productivity. Moderate caffeine intake remains unproblematic, but exceeding 400 mg daily can trigger detrimental health effects such as fatigue, memory impairment, and even attention-deficit disorder. Research on problematic coffee use among young adults, specifically Ethiopian students, remains limited, hindering our understanding of its potential scope and impact. To address this knowledge gap, researchers at Dilla University, Ethiopia, undertook a comprehensive study in 2022, focusing on the university's student population. This investigation holds significant potential to unveil the previously obscured landscape of excessive coffee consumption in this demographic and inform future research and potential interventions. Methodology: An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in August-July, 2022. To measure problematic coffee use, this study used the Diagnostic Statistical Manual five criteria for substance use disorder. Those who scored >2 out of 11 criteria were considered to have problematic coffee use. To measure a significant association between the outcome and independent variable, a multivariable logistic regression analysis at p < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval was employed. Result: This study included 414 respondents. More than half of the respondents, 347 (59.7%) were male. Out of all respondents, 182 (44.0%) had a boy/girlfriend. Nearly half of the respondents, 218 (52.7%) were orthodox, Christian religion followers. According to this study's findings, 137 (33.1%) respondents were considered to have problematic coffee use. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that 5-10 years duration of coffee use (AOR = 4.62, 95% CI: 2.96-7.85; p = 0.001), start to use coffee before joining university (AOR = 2.977, 95% CI: 1.332-6.653; p = 0.008) and 6-9 cups of daily coffee use (AOR = 3.26, 95% CI: 2.14-5.89; p = 0.00) were associated with problematic coffee use. Conclusion: This study showed that one-third of the respondents had problematic coffee use. The starting point, duration, and amount of use had a strong association with problematic coffee use. Hence, focusing on addressing the mental health challenges associated with problematic/excessive coffee consumption among higher education students is advisable. Additionally, promoting awareness of problematic/excessive coffee use and its potential remedies is recommended.

Knowledge about glaucoma among adults in Africa: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Africa is one of the continents with a substantial burden of glaucoma, where it is approximately twice as common as it is worldwide. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness and permanent vision loss if it is not addressed promptly. Good knowledge is essential for preventing glaucoma's irreversible blindness and ocular damage. However, no systematic review has been done to report the pooled percentage of adults in Africa who have good knowledge about glaucoma. This study aimed to estimate the level of knowledge about glaucoma in Africa and its determinants. METHODS: The study followed the PRISMA guidelines for systematic review. Seven electronic databases which include PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, PROQUEST (PQDT), CINAHL (EBSCO), Google Scholar, African Journal Online, and WHO HINARI databases were searched from January 1, 2013, to July 31, 2023for studies conducted with a focus on the knowledge about glaucoma among adults in Africa. The quality of the final articles was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute quality assessment tool for cross-sectional studies. RESULTS: In the present systematic review, 2781 articles were initially identified and evaluated. Of these, eight studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis. In this review, the proportion of knowledge about glaucoma among adults in Africa was low. Educational status, family history of glaucoma, occupation, being a male, and having a history of eye examination were the main determinants of good knowledge about glaucoma among adults in Africa. CONCLUSION: The systematic review found that only a few had good knowledge about glaucoma. Education campaigns and eye exam promotions are recommended to enhance awareness. TRAIL REGISTRATION: This systematic review was registered on 30/07/2023 with PROSPERO ID: CRD42023430723.

Mental health literacy and its associated factors among traditional healers toward mental illness in Northeast, Ethiopia: A mixed approach study.

BACKGROUND: Currently, the biggest issue facing the entire world is mental health. According to the Ethiopian Ministry of Health, nearly one-fourth of the community is experiencing any of the mental illness categories. Most of the cases were treated in religious and traditional institutions, which the community most liked to be treated. However, there were very limited studies conducted to show the level of mental health literacy among traditional healers. AIMS: The study aimed to assess the level of mental health literacy and its associated factors among traditional healers toward mental illness found in Northeast, Ethiopia from September 1-30/2022. METHOD: A mixed approach cross-sectional study design was carried out on September 130, 2022, using simple random sampling with a total sample of 343. Pretested, structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews were utilized for data collection. The level of Mental Health Literacy (MHL) was assessed using the 35 mental health literacy (35-MHLQ) scale. The semi-structured checklist was used for the in-depth interview and the FGD for the qualitative part. Data was entered using Epi-data version 4.6 and, then exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. The association between outcome and independent variables was analyzed with bivariate and multivariable linear regression. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data, and the findings were then referenced with the findings of the quantitative data. RESULTS: The findings of this study showed that the sample of traditional healers found in Dessie City scored a total mean of mental health literacy of 91.81 ± 10:53. Age (ß = -0.215, 95% CI (-0.233, -0.05), p = 0.003, informal educational status (ß = -5.378, 95% CI (-6.505, -0.350), p = 0.029, presence of relative with a mental disorder (ß = 6.030, 95% CI (0.073, 7.428),p = 0.046, getting information on mental illness (ß = 6.565, 95% CI (3.432, 8.680), p = <0.001, and mental health training (ß = 4.889, 95% CI (0.379, 6.455), p = 0.028 were variables significantly associated with mental health literacy. Traditional healers provide a variety of explanations for the causes of mental illness, including biological, psychological, and supernatural ones. CONCLUSION: The mean score of the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) is lower among traditional healers compared with other studies. Age, informal educational status, family history of mental illness, getting information on mental illness, and mental health training were significantly associated with mental health literacy. Therefore, different works to improve the levels of mental health literacy among traditional healers are essential.

Alcohol consumption and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at governmental hospitals in Harari regional state, Eastern, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Alcohol consumption during the pregnancy period is high despite the well-established evidence of its harmful effects on pregnancy and infant development. Early identification and behavioral modification are of great significance. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of alcohol consumption among pregnant women attending antenatal care at governmental hospitals in the Harari regional state, Eastern Ethiopia. METHOD: From April 1/2022-May 1/2022, an institutional-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 589 pregnant women attending antenatal care governmental hospitals in Harari regional state. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants during the study period. Data were collected through face-to-face interview methods using AUDIT-C. The collected data were coded, entered into Epi-data data version 3.1, and analyzed by SPSS Version 26. Binary logistic regression was carried out to identify independent predictors of alcohol consumption at a 95% confidence level. RESULTS: From a total of 617 eligible participants, 589 participated in the study with a response rate of 95.46%. The overall prevalence of alcohol consumption among pregnant women in Harari regional state governmental hospitals was 21.2% (95% CI:17.8, 24.4). In multivariate analysis, single marital status (AOR = 5.18;95% CI (2.66,10.11), previous history of abortion(AOR = 4.07;95% CI(2.06,8.04), family history of mental illness (AOR = 4.79;95% CI (1.94,11.83), depression (AOR 2.79; 95%CI(1.35,5.76), and anxiety(AOR = 2.51; 95% CI (1.23, 5.12) were variables found to have a statistically significant association with alcohol consumption during pregnancy in Harari regional state governmental hospitals. CONCLUSION: In comparison to the majority of other research, the prevalence of alcohol usage during pregnancy was high in this study. This study observed that single marital status, previous history of abortion, family history of mental illness, depression, and anxiety were highly associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Hence, responsible bodies working on mother and child health should try to mitigate or remove the above-mentioned risks when developing interventions.

Prevalence of depression among students at Ethiopian universities and associated factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Depression is the most common cause of disability in the world, which affects 350 million people. University students struggle to cope with stressors that are typical of higher education institutions as well as anxiety related to education. Although evidence indicates that they have a high prevalence of depression, no reviews have been done to determine the prevalence of depression among students at Ethiopian universities comprehensively. METHODS: Without regard to time constraints, PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE were investigated. A manual search for an article reference list was also conducted. The Meta XL software was used to extract relevant data, and the Stata-11 meta-prop package was used to analyze it. The Higgs I2 test was used to test for heterogeneity. RESULTS: A search of the electronic and manual systems resulted in 940 articles. Data were extracted from ten studies included in this review involving a total number of 5207 university students. The pooled prevalence of depression was 28.13% (95% CI: 22.67, 33.59). In the sub-group analysis, the average prevalence was higher in studies having a lower sample size (28.42%) than studies with a higher sample; 27.70%, and studies that utilized other (PHQ-9, HADS); 30.67% higher than studies that used BDI-II; 26.07%. Being female (pooled AOR = 5.56) (95% CI: 1.51, 9.61), being a first-year (pooled AOR = 4.78) (95% CI: 2.21, 7.36), chewing khat (pooled AOR = 2.83) (95% CI: 2.32, 3.33), alcohol use (pooled AOR = 3.12 (95% CI:3.12, 4.01) and family history of mental illness (pooled AOR = 2.57 (95% CI:2.00, 3.15) were factors significantly associated with depression. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that more than one-fourth of students at Ethiopian universities had depression. More efforts need to be done to provide better mental healthcare to university students in Ethiopia.

Prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Umbrella review of evidence generated across the globe.

BACKGROUND: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a class of neurodevelopmental disorders which is commonly diagnosed in school-age children, but it can occur in any age group. To provide a robust synthesis of published evidence on the prevalence of ADHD in adults, we conducted an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. METHODS: The review was guided by preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA). We searched PsychINFO, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus to retrieve pertinent studies. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023389704). A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) was used to assess the quality of the included studies. A random-effects model was used to perform a meta-analysis. RESULTS: Five systematic reviews and meta-analyses (57 unique primary studies) with data on 21,142,129 adult participants were eligible for inclusion in this umbrella review. Inverse variance weighted random effect meta-analysis of these studies indicated that the pooled prevalence of ADHD in adults was 3.10% (95%CI 2.60-3.60%). ADHD-I (the inattentive type of ADHD) remained the commonest type of ADHD, followed by ADHD-HI (the hyperactive type) and ADHD-C (the combined type). CONCLUSION: The results indicate that ADHD is relatively high in adults, with ADHD-I remaining the most common subtype. Attention should be given to preventing, reducing, identifying, and managing ADHD in adults.

Cognitive disorder and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal service at Dilla University Referral Hospital, 2022.

Introduction: Cognition is defined as the mental activity or process of learning information and understanding through reason, experience, and the senses. In Sub-Saharan African nations like Ethiopia, such assessments of a pregnant mother's mental health during antenatal care are uncommon procedures. Instead, there is a greater focus on the physical well-being of the woman and her fetus. As a result, this study aimed to evaluate the cognitive deficits and related factors in a pregnant women attending an antenatal care service. Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study included 415 pregnant women who were receiving antenatal care at Dilla University Referral Hospital in Dilla, Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia. In this study, respondents were chosen using systematic random sampling, and study participants were interviewed using administered questions to gather pertinent data. This study used the OSLO Social Support Scale, the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test, and the Mini-Mental Status Examination to assess the social support, cognitive status, and current substance use history of a respondent. Descriptive statistics including frequencies, graphs, and percentages were used to describe the results. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the connection between independent factors and the outcome variable at a 95 percent confidence level and p < 0.05. Result: Among all respondents who came for antenatal care visits, only 24 (5.8%) were unmarried (single, divorced, widowed). The mean age of respondents was 26 years old and 155 (37.3%) had attended secondary school. Variables such as strong social support [0.11 (0.03-0.23), p < 0.02], being a follower of orthodox religion [0.24 (0.12-0.39), p < 0.04], ≥5,000 Ethiopian birr monthly income [0.28 (0.17-0.48), p < 0.02], age >26 years old [1.23 (1.14-2.54), p < 0.04], unplanned pregnancy [2.78 (1.45-4.32), p < 0.02], and rural residence [3.90 (2.23-7.34), p < 0.04] were significantly associated with cognitive impairment at 95% confidence interval and a p-value <0.05. Conclusion: This study found that pregnant women who attended antenatal care experienced a significant reduction in cognitive disorders. Additionally, this study revealed adjustable factors such as unwanted pregnancy, social support, and religiosity. It is preferable to check a pregnant woman's cognitive condition at antenatal services and to follow-up on each additional visit.

Sexual dysfunction among people with mental illness attending follow-up treatment at a tertiary hospital, Jimma University Medical Center: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Sexual function is a complex behavior influenced by several factors that can result in dysfunction. It is highly prevalent among patients with mental illness who are on psychotropic medications. Assessing those patients has paramount importance for appropriate intervention to take place. Methods: This study was a facility-based cross-sectional study design conducted from 1 March to 30 June 2022. A Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ-14) was used to assess sexual dysfunctions. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 software. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between dependent and independent variables. Independent variables with a p-value < 0.05 were taken as statistically significant with sexual dysfunction. Results: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 45.4 % among respondents. The presence of chronic medical illness, being on typical antipsychotic treatment, being on psychiatric treatment for 24 months and more, moderate level of alcohol use, and being aged 35 and above were significantly associated with sexual dysfunction. Conclusion: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction among people with mental illness is high. Therefore, the clinician needs to routinely enquire about sexual symptoms during follow-up treatment and give appropriate interventions with special attention to patients with chronic medical conditions and patients taking antipsychotics and psychotropic drugs for a long period of time.

Post-traumatic stress disorder and associated factors among people who experienced traumatic events in Dessie town, Ethiopia, 2022: A community based study.

Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may develop as a serious long-term consequence of traumatic experiences, even many years after trauma exposure. Dessie town residents have experienced prolonged armed conflict due to inter-communal conflict in 2021. Those people are exposed to different kinds of trauma, and violence, making them more prone to psychological disorders. Despite the highest number of people affected due to conflict and its negative impact on mental health, post-traumatic stress disorders among people are overlooked in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of post-traumatic stress disorder among people who experienced traumatic events in Dessie town, Ethiopia, 2022. Materials and methods: Community based cross-sectional study was conducted on June 8-July 7, 2022, by using a multi-stage cluster sampling with a total sample of 785. Pretested, structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews were used for data collection. PTSD was assessed by the Post-traumatic stress disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). Data was entered using Epi-data version 3.1 and, then exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. The association between outcome and independent variables was analyzed with bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression. P-values less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: The prevalence of PTSD among Dessie town residents was found to be 19.4% (95% CI, 16.7, 22.0). In multivariable analysis, being females (AOR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.10-2.44), previous history of mental illness (AOR = 3.14, 95% CI 1.14-7.06) depressive symptoms (AOR = 3.12, 95% CI 1.92-5.07), witnessing a serious physical injury of a family member or friend (AOR = 2.82, 95% CI 1.18-6.70) and high perceived life threats (AOR = 5.73, 95% CI 3.05-10.78) were found to be significant predictors of PTSD. Conclusion: The prevalence of PTSD among Dessie town residents was found to be huge. Being female, having a previous history of mental illness, depressive symptoms, witnessing a serious physical injury of a family member or friend, and high perceived life threats were variables that are independent predictors of PSTD. People who have experienced such a severe traumatic event require psychosocial support to aid in their recovery from the terrible experiences.

Suicidal behavior and associated factors among prisoners at Dessie town correctional institution, Dessie, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Suicide is a prominent cause of death among inmates worldwide, accounting for over 30% of all deaths. Several factors, including prison-related, psychiatric disorders, stressful life events, and substance use-related factors are believed to be associated with an increased risk of suicidal behavior in a correctional facility. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of Suicidal Behavior among prisoners at Dessie town correctional institution, Ethiopia. METHODS: From February 16 to March 5, 2020, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 288 inmates at the Dessie Town Correctional Center. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants during the study period. Data was collected through face-to-face interview methods using Suicidal Behavior Revised (SBQ-R). The collected data were coded, entered into Epi-data data version 3.1, and analyzed by SPSS Version 26. Binary logistic regression was carried out to identify independent predictors of suicidal behavior at a 95% confidence level. Variables at a p-value < 0.05 with 95% CI were declared statistically significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of Suicidal behavior among prisoners was found to be 25.3% [(95% CI: 20.5, 30.6)]. This study showed that being female [AOR = 5.14;95% CI (1.62,16.29)], depression [AOR = 4.97;95%CI (2.53,9.77)], anxiety [AOR = 3.14; 95%CI (1.59,6.22)], experienced stressful life events [AOR = 5.11; 95%CI (2.24, 11.65)], and ever substance use [AOR = 2.83; 95%CI (1.41, 5.59)] were variables significantly associated with suicidal behavior among prisoners in Dessie town correctional institution. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: In this study, suicidal behavior was highly prevalent among prisoners compared to the general population. Being female, depression, anxiety, stress full life events, and substance use were variables that are independent predictors of suicidal behavior. This study recommends that the institution needs to deliver an appropriate psychiatric facility to diagnose and treat prisoners with suicidal behavior. Also, special attention should be given to early screening and treatment of prisoners through prison health services, which is the most critical prevention strategy of suicide in prisoners.

Sleep quality and associated factors among nurses working at comprehensive specialized hospitals in Northwest, Ethiopia.

Background: Poor sleep quality is common among nurses. This problem possibly results in negative emotional and psychological consequences in nurses which secondary affect their work performances. However, in Ethiopia, there is a paucity of information about poor sleep quality and associated factors among nurses. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of poor sleep quality and associated factors among nurses working at comprehensive specialized hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 542 nurses who worked at University of Gondar (UOG), Tibebe Ghion, Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals, Ethiopia, who were incorporated into the study through a simple random sampling technique from 1 May to 2 June 2021. The Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) with a cut score of above 5 was used to assess sleep quality using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Other tools used are Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), Shift Work sleep disorders (SWSD), and Oslo-3 social support scales. Epi-Data version 3.1 was used for data entry and SPSS version 25 was used for data analysis. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify variables that have a significant association with poor sleep quality among nurse professionals. The degree of association was assessed using an odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) at a two-tailed p-value of <0.05. Results: A total of 510 nurses were included in the study with a response rate of 94%. The study showed that the overall prevalence of poor sleep quality among nurses was 75.5% (95% CI (71.8, 79.1). Being female (AOR = 1.72:95% CI = 1.19, 2.28), depressive symptoms (AOR = 2.24:95% CI = 1.24, 3.85), anxiety symptoms (AOR = 2.12: 95% CI = 1.23, 3.62), stress (AOR = 2.85: 95% CI = 1.67, 4.82) and current alcohol drinking (AOR = 1.84 :95% CI = 1.27, 3.13) were significantly associated with poor sleep quality. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of poor sleep quality among nurses was high. Being female, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, stress, and current alcohol drinking had been significantly associated with poor sleep quality. Therefore, it is essential to institute effective intervention strategies emphasizing contributing factors to poor sleep quality.

Magnitude of patient satisfaction and its associated factors at the outpatient psychiatry service of Dilla university referral hospital, Southern Ethiopia, Dilla, 2020.

BACKGROUND: Patient satisfaction is a subjective attitudinal response of a client to a health institution's services and a pillar of quality assurance. Patients who are happy with their treatment are much more likely to stick with it, improve quickly, and function normally. Satisfied patients are more compliant, improve faster, and are more functional. However, there haven't been enough studies conducted across the country, and none have been conducted in this study area. As a result, the purpose of the study was to estimate the size of patient satisfaction and associated determinants at Dilla University Referral Hospital's psychiatry unit in Dilla, 2020. METHODS: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study design utilized using a simple random sampling technique. To assess patient satisfaction, we used the 24-item Mental Health Service Satisfaction Scale which was a validated tool in Ethiopia. The link between the outcome and the independent variable was determined using linear regression analysis (P< 0.05). RESULT: This study enrolled 409 respondents with a response rate of 97%. The overall mean percentage score of patient satisfaction was 55.4% (95% CI (48.4%- 59.2%). Having bipolar disorder diagnosis [ß = -2.93, 95% CI (-4.33, -1.96), p = .000], distance from the hospital [ß = -2.34), 95% CI (-3.765, -1.735), P = .001], waiting time [ß = -2.19, 95% CI (-3.49, -1.10), p = .000], monthly income (2.95, 95% CI (1.65, 5.23) and Urban residence (ß = 1.43, 95% CI (1.03-3.43), p = 0.01) were variables significantly associated with perceived patient satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: In this study, more than half of the respondents scored above the mean percentage score of patient satisfaction. The amount of time spent in the waiting area and the distance traveled to the hospital were identified as variables that could be improved by working with different stakeholders.

Neurocognitive Impairment and Associated Factors Among Elderly in the Bahir Dar City Administration, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Neurocognitive impairment is a widely common problem in the elderly. It encompasses mild and major cognitive impairment, which will lead to disability and increase the risk of death. It also compromises the quality of life of the patient and poses a burden on the family and society as a whole. However, there is a paucity of information concerning neurocognitive impairment among the elderly in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of neurocognitive impairment and associated factors among the elderly in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia 2020. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 respondents using a simple random sampling technique from 1 June to 30 June 2020. Neurocognitive impairment was measured using the Mini-Mental State Exam adjusted cutoff point (presence or absence) by the level of education of the participants. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.62 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis: descriptive statistics were used for summarization and presentation and binary logistic regression for a measure of association between exposures and outcome variable. Results: The prevalence of neurocognitive impairment was 42.1%. Factors such as having no spouse [AOR = 1.76, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08-2.86], having depression (AOR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.80-5.14), lifetime alcohol use (AOR = 2.90, 95% CI: 1.19-7.07), and having low family support (AOR = 3.07, 95% CI: 1.35-6.96) and moderate family support (AOR = 1.83; 95% CI: 1.10-3.06) were significantly associated with neurocognitive impairment. Conclusion and Recommendation: The prevalence of neurocognitive impairment was high in Bahir Dar city administration. Neurocognitive impairment has shown significant association with no spouse, depression, alcohol use, and low and moderate family social support. It is important to pay attention to old age with comorbid mental illness and also to strengthen social support systems to prevent and manage neurocognitive impairment.

Problematic substance use and its associated factors among street youth in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia.

Background: Problematic substance use is becoming a common problem in marginalized groups such as street youths. However, there is a dearth of studies on the prevalence and factors associated with problematic substance use among street youth in Ethiopia. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of problematic substance use and identify its associated factors among street youth. Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between June and July 2020. A total of 252 participants were included in this study. Systematic random sampling was used to recruit participants. Cut down, annoyed, guilty feeling, and eye opening-adapted to include drugs (CAGE-AIDs) were used to assess problematic substance use. The data were entered into epidata and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Logistic regression with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to show the strength of association. A p-value < 0.5 was statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of problematic substance use was 55.8%, 95% CI (49-63%). Peer pressure [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.01, 95% CI: 1.38, 6.59], family conflict [AOR = 5.05, 95% CI: 1.67, 15.25], physical abuse [AOR = 2.56, 95% CI: 1.11, 5.84], and substance use in the family [AOR = 2.85, 95% CI: 1.29, 6.27] were the factors significantly associated with problematic substance use. Conclusion: The prevalence of problematic substance use was high. It was also found that peer pressure, family conflict, substance use in the family, and physical abuse were the factors associated with problematic substance use. Therefore, proper screening and intervention for individuals with problematic substance use are needed, and further research should be conducted for marginalized groups.

Depression and associated factors among older adults in Bahir Dar city administration, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020: Cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Depression is the most common psychiatric condition among older adults, and it goes unnoticed by individuals themselves and is under-diagnosed by clinicians due to the misconception that these are normal parts of aging. However, the problem is not properly addressed in Ethiopia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of depression among the older adults in Bahir Dar city. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 423 older adults in Bahir Dar city. A simple random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Depression was assessed using a 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to explore the potential determinants of depression among the participants. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression among older adults was found to be 57.9% (95% CI: 53.2-62.6). This study showed that educational status with grades 5-8th (AOR: 5.72, 95% CI: 2.87-11.34), and 9-12th grade (AOR: 3.44, 95% CI: 1.59-7.41), income <2004 ETB (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.16-3.07), cognitive impairments (AOR: 3.54, 95% CI: 2.16-5.81), family history of mental illness (AOR:3.06, 95% CI: 1.03-9.04), and poor quality of life (AOR: 2.78, 95% CI: 1.74-4.46) were significantly associated with depression. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of depression among older adults was found to be huge. Having low educational status, low monthly income, cognitive impairments, family history of mental illness, and poor quality of life were associated with depression. Therefore, raising community awareness of mental health, increasing social participation, providing supportive counseling and routine screening of depressive symptoms are essential in combating depression among Bahir-Dar city older adults.

Patient Perception of Informed Consent and Its Associated Factors among Surgical Patients Attending Public Hospitals in Dessie City Administration, Northeast Ethiopia.

Background: Poor perception of informed consent compromises patients' autonomy and self-determination; as a result, they feel powerless and unaccountable for their treatment. This study aimed to assess patients' perception of informed consent and its associated factors among surgical patients attending public hospitals in Dessie City Administration, Northeast Ethiopia. Methods: Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 422 surgical patients. A systematic sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected using a pretested structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. EpiData version 3.1 was used for data entry, and then data were exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify factors associated with the outcome variable among the participants. Variables with p value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant factors. Results: The prevalence of poor perception of informed consent for surgical procedures was found to be 33.2% (95% CI: 28.8-37.8). In multivariable analysis, educational status with inability to read and write (AOR = 5.71; 95% CI: 2.76-11.80) and basic ability to read and write (AOR = 6.03; 95% CI: 2.57-14.16), rural residence (AOR = 3.71; 95% CI: 1.94-7.07), marital status being widowed and divorced (AOR = 3.85; 95% CI: 1.83-8.08), language of written informed consent different from mother tongue (AOR = 4.196; 95% CI: 1.12-15.78), poor patient-physician relationship (AOR = 2.35; 95% CI: 1.31-4.24), and poor knowledge of surgical informed consent (AOR = 3.05; 95% CI: 1.56-5.97) were significantly associated with poor perception of surgical informed consent. Conclusion: In this study, one-third of surgical patients appear to have poor perceptions of informed consent for surgical procedures. Educational status, being rural residents, being widowed/divorced, language of written informed consent, poor patient-physician relationship, and poor knowledge of surgical informed consent were variables that are independent predictors of poor perception of informed consent for surgical procedures. The ministry of health and healthcare providers should develop a plan to raise patients' awareness about the informed consent process for surgical procedures.

Prevalence and associated factors depressive symptoms among healthcare professionals at Dessie comprehensive specialized hospital, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Depression among healthcare professionals results in adverse effects which might include decreased impairment of work performance, an increased turnover rate, and vulnerability to clinical error. Despite that, there is a paucity of information concerning depression among healthcare professionals in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and identifying the associated factors of depression among health care professionals working at Dessie Comprehensive specialized hospital, Ethiopia. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 252 healthcare professionals at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northeast, Ethiopia. They were randomly selected and depression was measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) with a score of 5 and above. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to explore the potential determinants of depressive symptoms among the participants. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant and, adjusted OR (AOR) with 95% CI was used to present the strength of the association. RESULT: The prevalence of depressive symptoms among healthcare professionals was 27.8% (95% CI: 22.6,33.7). Among participants who had reported depressive symptoms, 72.2, 20.2, 6, and 1.6% reported no, mild, moderate, and severe depressive symptoms, respectively. In multivariable analysis, being female (AOR = 1.94; 95% CI: 1.12,3.67), unmarried (AOR = 2.16; 95% CI: 1.12,4.15), having a family history of mental illness (AOR = 7.31; 95% CI: 2.27,23.49), and current substance use (AOR = 2.67; 95% CI: 1.36,5.24) were found to be significant predictors of depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION: Depressive symptoms were highly prevalent among primary health care professionals. Being female, unmarried, family history of mental illness, and current substance use had a significant association with depressive symptoms among healthcare professionals. They should be promptly screened and managed at a healthcare institution.

Depressive symptoms and associated factor among public school teachers in Jimma town, Southwest, Ethiopia 2020: a multi-disciplinary, cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Depression is a common mental disorder and the leading cause of disability globally. Depression has a significant impact on the quality of life, cognition, emotion, and daily functioning and leads individuals to 39% of suicide globally. Previous studies reported that the magnitude of depression is higher among teachers than in the general population. However, little is known in the case of Ethiopia. Therefore this study aimed to assess the magnitude of depressive symptoms and associated factors among public school teachers in Jimma town. METHODS: A facility-based cross-sectional study using was conducted a multistage random sampling technique. Depressive symptoms were assessed by using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress 21 items scale. The data were entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed using STATA V 14.2. Variables with p < 0.25 in the bi-variable logistic regression analysis were entered into a multivariable binary logistic regression to identify predictors. A statistically significant association was declared at a p-value < 0.05. RESULT: The prevalence of depressive symptoms in this study was found to be 44.7% (95% CI: 40-49.3). Moderate and severe level of occupational stress (AOR; 2.63 CI; 1.32, 5.28 and AOR; 4.15 CI; 1.83, 9.45) respectively, having stress, (AOR; 2.40 CI; 1.48, 3.90), having Anxiety symptoms (AOR; 4.43 CI; 2.79, 7.06) and consumption of alcohol (AOR; 2.21 CI; 1.11, 4.37) were identified as a significant predictor for depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: The study revealed that there is a high prevalence of depressive symptoms among participants. Moderate and severe levels of occupational stress, having stress, having anxiety, and consumption of alcohol were factors that are significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Therefore, giving awareness and routine screening of depressive symptoms among teachers is crucial in early detection and management.