Prevalence, Pattern and Predictors of Elder Abuse in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria: An Urban and Rural Comparison.

BACKGROUND: Elder abuse is a growing concern globally and the consequences can be detrimental to the wellbeing of the elderly. In Nigeria, it is a hidden problem, under-reported with limited national response. This study compared the prevalence and pattern of elder abuse and its determinants between urban and rural communities in Benin-City. METHODS: A comparative cross-sectional analytical studywas conducted among 445 urban and 468 rural elderly respondents selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analysed by IBM SPSS version 23.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done with level of significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: The lifetime prevalence of elder abuse was 18.6% and 17.6% while the one-year prevalence was 14.7% and 13.3% in the rural and urban areas, respectively. The most common was psychological abuse (86.2% vs 84.2%) while the least was sexual abuse (3.4% vs 9.2%) in rural and urban areas, respectively. The predictors of elder abuse in the urban area were low level of education (aOR=2.080; 95%CI=1.031-4.196), poor social support (aOR=2.249; 95%CI=1.005-5.033) and social dissatisfaction (aOR=9.308; 95%CI=3.876-22.353) while predictors in the rural area included male gender (aOR=2.051; 95%CI=1.042-4.036), poor social support (aOR=3.555; 95%CI=1.642-7.696), social dissatisfaction (aOR=65.320; 95%CI=21.656-97.022) and good social network (aOR= 0.261; 95%CI=0.092-0.739). CONCLUSION: Elder abuse is not uncommon in our environment and the pattern is in consonance with the global typologies. Appropriate strategies to raise awareness on this emerging public health concern and establishing a holistic policy to respond to the problem and care for the elderly are recommended.

BACKGROUND: La maltraitance des personnes âgées est une préoccupation croissante dans le monde entier, et ses conséquences peuvent être préjudiciables au bien-être des personnes âgées. Au Nigéria, il s'agit d'un problème caché, insuffisamment signalé avec une réponse nationale limitée. Cette étude a comparé la prévalence et le modèle de la maltraitance des personnes âgées et ses déterminants entre les communautés urbaines et rurales de la ville de Bénin. MÉTHODES: Une étude analytique transversale comparative a été menée auprès de 445 personnes âgées en milieu urbain et 468 en milieu rural sélectionnées à l'aide d'une technique d'échantillonnage à plusieurs degrés. Les données ont été recueillies à l'aide d'un questionnaire structuré administré par un enquêteur, et analysées par la version 23.0 du IBM SPSS. Des statistiques descriptives et inférentielles ont été réalisées avec un niveau de signification fixé à p<0,05. de signification fixé à p<0,05. RÉSULTATS: La prévalence à vie de la maltraitance des personnes âgées était de 18,6 % et 17,6 %, tandis que la prévalence sur un an était de 14,7 % et 13,3 % dans les zones rurales et urbaines respectivement. La plus fréquente était l'abus psychologique (86,2% vs 84,2 %) et la moins fréquente était l'abus sexuel (3,4 % vs 9,2 %) dans les zones rurales et urbaines, respectivement. Les prédicteurs de la maltraitance des personnes âgées dans la zone urbaine étaient un faible niveau d'éducation (aOR=2,080; 95%CI=1,031-4,196), soutien social insuffisant (aOR=2,249; 95%CI=1,005-5,033) et l'insatisfaction sociale (aOR=9,005 ; 95%CI=1,005-5,033), sociale (aOR=9,308; 95%CI=3,876-22,353), tandis que les prédicteurs prédicteurs dans la zone rurale comprenaient le sexe masculin (aOR=2,051; 95%CI=1,042-4,036), un faible soutien social (aOR=3,555; 95%CI=1,642-7,696), l'insatisfaction sociale (aOR=65,320; 95%CI=21,656-97,022) et un bon réseau social (aOR= 0,261; 95%CI=0,092-0,739). CONCLUSION: La maltraitance des personnes âgées n'est pas rare dans notre environnement et le modèle est en consonance avec les typologies mondiales. Des stratégies appropriées pour sensibiliser à cette problème de santé publique émergent et l'établissement d'une politique politique holistique pour répondre au problème et prendre soin des personnes âgées recommandées. Mots clés: Maltraitance des personnes âgées; Prévalence; Modèle; Déterminants; Ville de Bénin.

Knowledge and Skills of Health Care Workers Implementing Integrated Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Strategy in Edo State, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: The Integrated Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (IMNCH) strategy which advocates for integrated care of mother and newborn requires skilled health care workers (HCWs) for effective implementation. This study assessed the capacity of HCWs in Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities in Edo State to implement the IMNCH strategy. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 333 HCWs drawn from PHC facilities in Edo State using multistage sampling technique. Data was collected by structured self-administered questionnaire and analysed using IBM SPSS version 21.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done with level of significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: One hundred and seventy-four (52.3%) of the respondents had good knowledge of IMNCH strategy, 223 (67.0%) had good practice of focused antenatal care (FANC) while 92 (27.6%) had good of routine and basic emergency obstetric care (BEOC) including essential newborn care (ENC). Respondents' designation was the only significant predictor of knowledge of IMNCH strategy (aOR=5.03, 95%CI=2.92-8.67, p<0.001). Respondents' designation (aOR=6.50; 95%CI=3.11-13.99, p<0.001) and good knowledge of IMNCH strategy (aOR=0.21, 95%CI=0.12-0.38, p<0.001) were the significant predictors of good practice of FANC. Respondents' designation (aOR=6.13, 95%CI=3.27-11.48, p<0.001) and good knowledge of IMNCH strategy (aOR=0.28, 95%CI=0.14-0.54, p<0.001) were the significant predictors of good practice of routine and BEOC including ENC. CONCLUSION: The study found overall good knowledge of IMNCH strategy, good practice of FANC but poor practice of routine, basic emergency obstetric and newborn care among HCWs in PHC facilities in Edo State. Engaging more skilled HCWs and continuous professional training of employed staff is recommended for effective implementation of the IMNH strategy.

CONTEXTE: La stratégie de la santé intégrée de la mère, du nouveau-né et de l'enfant (IMNCH), qui préconise des soins intégrés pour la mère et le nouveau-né, exige des travailleurs de la santé qualifiés pour une mise en œuvre efficace. Cette étude a évalué la capacité des travailleurs de la santé dans les établissements de soins de santé primaires (SSP) de l'État d'Edo à mettre en œuvre la stratégie IMNCH. MÉTHODES: Cette étude transversale a impliqué 333 travailleurs de santé sélectionnés dans les établissements de soins primaires de l'État d'Edo en utilisant une technique d'échantillonnage à plusieurs degrés. Les données ont été collectées au moyen d'un questionnaire structuré auto-administré et analysées avec IBM SPSS version 21.0. Des statistiques descriptives et inférentielles ont été réalisées avec un niveau de signification fixé à p<0,05. RÉSULTATS: Cent soixante-quatorze (52,3%) des répondants avaient une bonne connaissance de la stratégie IMNCH, 223 (67,0%) avaient une bonne pratique des soins prénataux ciblés (FANC) tandis que 92 (27,6%) avaient une bonne pratique des soins obstétricaux d'urgence de routine et de base (BEOC), y compris les soins essentiels au nouveauné (ENC). La désignation des répondants était le seul prédicteur significatif de la connaissance de la stratégie IMNCH (aOR=5,03, 95%CI=2,92-8,67, p<0,001). La désignation des répondants (aOR=6,50 ; 95%CI=3,11-13,99, p<0,001) et une bonne connaissance de la stratégie IMNCH (aOR=0,21, 95%CI=0,12-0,38, p<0,001) étaient les prédicteurs significatifs d'une bonne pratique des FANC. La désignation des répondants (aOR=6.13, 95%CI=3.27-11.48, p<0.001) et la bonne connaissance de la stratégie IMNCH (aOR=0.28, 95%CI=0.14-0.54, p<0.001) étaient les prédicteurs significatifs de la bonne pratique de la routine et du BEOC incluant l'ENC. CONCLUSION: L'étude a révélé une bonne connaissance générale de la stratégie IMNCH, une bonne pratique des FANC mais une faible pratique des soins de routine, des soins obstétriques d'urgence de base et des soins aux nouveau-nés parmi les travailleurs de santé dans les établissements PHC de l'état d'Edo. L'engagement d'un plus grand nombre d'agents sanitaires qualifiés et la formation professionnelle continue du personnel employé sont recommandés pour une mise en œuvre efficace de la stratégie IMNH. MOTS CLÉS: IMNCH ; Mise en œuvre ; Agents de santé ; Soins de santé primaires, État d'Edo.

Knowledge, Attitude and Preventive Practices Against Lassa Fever Among Residents in a Rural Community in Southern Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Lassa fever is of significant public health concern due to the high morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. There is need for the general public, especially those in the rural communities, to have adequate knowledge of Lassa fever as well as engage in proper measures that will prevent the occurrence of future outbreaks. OBJECTIVE: To assess the knowledge, attitude and preventive practices against Lassa fever of adult residents among a rural community in Edo State, Nigeria. METHODS: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study among adult residents of a rural community in Etsako Central LGA, Edo State. The participants were selected using multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires and data analysis was by IBM SPSS version 21.0. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Four hundred and sixty-five respondents with a mean age of 34.6 ± 14.7 years participated in the study. Majority (89.0%) had heard of Lassa fever and of these, 82.9% and 85.3% had poor knowledge of Lassa fever and positive attitude towards preventive measures against Lassa fever, respectively. Over half (59.1%) had poor preventive practices against Lassa fever. Knowledge, attitude and preventive practice was found to be better among educated respondents. CONCLUSION: The study showed a gap in knowledge of Lassa fever and preventive practices against the disease among the respondents. Adequate measures such as enforcing policies against bush burning should be put in place by all stakeholders to ensure that this gap observed is bridged.

Fetal Congenital Anomaly in Tertiary Hospital in Lagos, South-West Nigeria: A Review of Presentation and its Outcome.

BACKGROUND: Congenital Anomalies are a major contributor to perinatal deaths worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 303,000 newborns die within the first 4 weeks of life worldwide as a result of it. The exact cause is often difficult to determine and as such efforts are geared towards prevention AIM AND OBJECTIVE: This study was done to determine the common presentations as well as epidemiological features of pregnant women with anomalous fetus and at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. This may help to develop strategies for patient counseling and management. METHOD: This study is a retrospective, cross sectional hospital based study conducted at the department of Obstetrics and Gyneacology of the Lagos University Teaching Hospita,l Idi-Araba during the period Jan 2012-Dec 2016. Relevant information regarding maternal age, parity, gestational age and pregnancy outcomes was documented from the delivery records of the mothers. RESULTS: One hundred (100) babies out of the total of 5,747 babies within the period under study were born with congenital anomalies giving a prevalence rate of 1.7% at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. The commonest congenital anomaly seen was hydrocephalus, others were omphalocele, anorectal anomalies and multiple congenital anomalies (in particular neural tube defects coexisting with various forms of limb defects). CONCLUSIONS: Public awareness of the importance of preconceptional care, elimination of environmental risk factors as well as provision of prenatal diagnostic facilities and improvement of antenatal care are of great benefit in early detection and management of congenital anomalies.

Lung function indices of flour millworkers in Edo and Delta States.

UNLABELLED: AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Flour dust has been associated with lung function impairment and Chronic Obstructive Airway Disease (COAD) among grain workers. This study was therefore conducted to assess the lung function indices of flour mill workers in Edo and Delta states, of Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS Comparative cross-sectional study designed was utilized for the study and it was carried out over a period of six months, (Nov 2010 to May 2011) among 200 flour mill workers and 200 hospital workers in Edo and Delta states.A modified Medical Research Council (MRC) questionnaire which was interviewer administered and an electronic hand held spirometer was used to collect data. Data analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Scientific Solution (SPSS) version 17. RESULTS: The Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) of the flour dust exposed workers was significantly lower (p<0.001) compared to that of the unexposed population. All other lung function parameters were also lower although not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Flour dust exposed workers in Edo Delta states like grain workers elsewhere have lung impairment, hence the need to provide protective equipment and also carry out regular periodic medical checks.

Medication Adherence and Risk Factors for Non-adherence among Patients taking Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy

Background: ART is a life long treatment and its effectiveness depends critically both on the efficacy of the antiretroviral drugs against the virus, and achieving a very high level of adherence (> 95 %) to the medications. Adherence poses a special challenge and requires commitment from the patient and the health care provider.Objectives: The study evaluated medication adherence, and identified risk factors for non-adherence in HIV-infected ART patients.Methods: In a cross-sectional survey, medication adherence of 118 HIV-infected ART patients who received pretreatment and ongoing adherence counseling and education for 6 months was evaluated using a self-administered studyspecific 16-item questionnaire. Self-reported adherence was calculated as the mean of patients' adherence to the medication schedule and the number of prescribed doses of medications missed. Chi-square statistics was used to test the association of adherence with occupation and education at 95 % CI.Results: The mean age of participants was 33.9 (95 % CI, 29.6-38.2) years; and 82.2 % of participants were aged 26-45years; 60.2 % females, 80.5 % attained secondary education at the least; and 77.1 % were employed. All participants reported been counseled on the benefits of ART and medication adherence at ART initiation. On assessment of participants' knowledge of the benefits of ART and medication adherence, 92.2 % were very knowledgeable, 2.9 %reported wrongly that ART is a cure for HIV. The self-reported adherence to medication schedule was 68.9 %(range: 0 % - 100 %), of which 83 (70.3 %) reported > 75 % adherence; while adherence to prescribed doses of medications was 89.2 % (range: 20 % - 100 %), of which 100 (84.7 %) participants reported > 80 % adherence. Mean self-reported adherence (±SD) was 79.1 % ± 14.4 %. Employment status was associated with poor adherence (P < 0.05), unlike the educational status. The major reasons reported for non-adherence were busy at work or school (33.1 %), forgetfulness (15.5 %), fasting (12.0 %), and travelled away from home (10.6%). Conclusion: The self-reported adherence was relatively poor compared to the desired value of > 95%. Employment status was associated with poor adherence and this may be corroborated by the major reason reported for non-adherence (busy at work or school). Routine adherence monitoring and multiple adherence interventions in clinical practice are recommended

Health-Related Quality of Life and CD4 Cells Status of Patients Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in Nigeria

Background: The goals of antiretroviral therapy (ART) are to improve patient's health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and restore immunologic function among others. Objectives: The study evaluated HRQOL and CD4-cells response of HIV-infected patients at months 0 and 6 of receiving ART in Maitama District Hospital Abuja, Nigeria. Methods: HRQOL of a cohort of 150 HIV-infected patients was evaluated at months 0 and 6 of receiving ART using Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (MOS SF-36) which has 8 domains. These include physical functioning, physically and emotionally related role limitations, social functioning, pain, energy/fatigue, emotional well-being and general health. A paired samples t-test was used to compare the HRQOL scores and CD4 cells count of participants at months 0 and 6. Wilcoxon's signed-ranks test was used to compare HRQOL of male and female participants. At two-tailed test, p value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age (±SD) of the 150 participants at ART initiation was 34.3 ± 8.4 years; 59.3% were females. The mean (±SD) HRQOL of participants increased significantly from 71.9% ± 20.9 at ART initiation to 89.7% ± 10.6 after 6 months of ART (p<0.05). The change in all SF-36 domains was statistically significant (p<0.05) except for the domains of role limitation due to emotional problems, social functioning and pain. The improvement in the mental component score (MCS) was significant (p<0.05) unlike that of the physical component (PCS). The difference in the HRQOL of male and female participants at months 0 and 6 was not significant. The mean CD4 cell count (±SD) increased from 185.7 ±91.0 cells/mm3 at month 0 to 199.0 ±104.7 cells/mm3 after 6months of ART; though this increase was not statistically significant. Conclusion: There was significant improvement in the mean HRQOL scores of participants which was not associated with significant improvement in the CD4 cells status after six months of ART. The evaluation of HRQOL alongside the clinical and immunological parameters when monitoring treatment outcomes is recommended

Epidemiology of pulmonary tuberculosis in University of Benin Teaching Hospital and Central Hospital, Benin City.

BACKGROUND: Poverty, overcrowding, homelessness, malnutrition and the AIDS pandemic has worsen the problem of tuberculosis in the developing countries, Nigeria inclusive with Nigeria being the fifth among the twenty-two high tuberculosis burden countries. OBJECTIVE: To identify the epidemiological factors associated with the distribution of tuberculosis in Benin City, Nigeria. METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional and descriptive one and carried out in two major public hospitals in Benin City, Nigeria, namely University of Benin Teaching Hospital (a tertiary hospital) and the Central Hospital (a secondary hospital) within one year period. RESULTS: The results of study revealed more males were affected than females (1.7:1). The mean age was 39.9 +/- 16.7 years with the largest number of patients (71.5%) being in the age groups 21 - 30 years. The major defaulters to anti-tuberculosis drugs were those with primary education and no formal education, which together constituted 80%. CONCLUSION: Tuberculosis was seen to be more common in males than females and the age group mostly affected was between 21 and 30 years. It still remains a disease of the low socio-economic status and those living in overcrowded environment. Compliance was poor amongst the uneducated and the poor.

An epidemiological study of football (soccer) injuries in Benin City, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: The increase in popularity of soccer and expectations from players make significant numbers of soccer injuries conceivable. Concerns have been expressed about the demand placed on the modern-day footballer and translation of these physical and mental demands into injuries. Despite the popularity and importance of the game of soccer in Benin, no detailed study on the occurrence of soccer injury has been carried out. OBJECTIVE: The study sets out to describe and assess the determinants and effects of soccer injuries. METHODOLOGY: Seven clubs (196 players) from the premiership, professional, national and state amateur clubs were studied using a descriptive cross-sectional study design. A pre-designed semi-structured questionnaire and key informants interview guide were used for data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis, with significant levels generally taken at 5% level of significance. RESULTS: A total of 196 players sustained 204 injuries with a prevalence rate of 81.6%. More injuries were recorded during matches (46.1%) than during training (36.8%). Injuries occurring by body contact constituted 62.3% of the total injuries. The ankle (25%) was the most affected site, followed by the knee (20.1%), while sprain injury (33.3%) and strain (13.2%) were the commonest injury types. Moderate injury (28.9%) was the highest form of severity recorded. Recurrent injury accounted for 38.8% of injuries, occurring more in training (44.9%) than in matches (36.7%). A greater percentage (86.8%) of the injuries were traumatic in nature, with tackling (44.6%) being the commonest mechanism. Defenders (34.3%) and strikers (31.4%) had higher injury occurrence. The association between the player's role and the mechanism of injury was significant (p = 0.02), while that between weather condition and injury type was very significant (p = 0.004). Moreover, the association between experience and mechanism of injury was extremely significant (p<0.001). The study also shows that injury has economic, physical and psychological impacts on players. CONCLUSION: A prevalence rate of 81.6% was recorded. Sprain was the leading injury type, while the ankle was the most affected anatomical site. Factors such as weather, previous injury, experience, role, and activity tend to influence injury occurrence. Soccer injury also has economic, physical and psychological implications. It is therefore recommended that preventive measures such as adequate treatment of injuries, full rehabilitation after injuries, use of protective equipment, appropriate exercises and warm-ups, continual team education on injury managements and skill improvement, etc., be utilised and enforced to protect this group of sport workers.

Knowledge attitude and practice about breast cancer among civil servants in Benin City, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is often associated with severe morbidity and mortality especially when the patients present late. A major reason why patients present late is the lack of awareness about breast cancer, its complications and the management. METHODS: The study was carried out using a structured questionnaire. A total of 400 female civil servants were enlisted in the study, but only 385 respondents completed and returned the forms. RESULTS: Two hundred and seventy seven (72.0%) respondents had tertiary level of education. Sixty six (17.1%) respondents were in the 30-34-year age group. Three hundred and twelve (81.0%) respondents knew correctly that breast lump is usually the first symptom of presentation of breast cancer. One hundred and forty four (37.5%) respondents knew that a positive family history of breast cancer is a risk factor, while two hundred and seventy four (71.2%) respondents answered that cancer of one breast in a woman increases her chances of having cancer of the other breast. Three hundred and twenty one (83.4%) respondents knew that breast cancer could spread from one breast to the other and two hundred and thirty (59.7%) knew that breast cancer could spread to other parts of the body. One hundred and eighty three (47.5%) respondents would visit the hospital as the first reaction if they were to detect a breast lump, while twenty three (6.0%) respondents would ignore the lump. While three hundred and twenty seven (85.0%) respondents have heard of breast self- examination, only one hundred (26.0%) could correctly describe the procedure of breast self -examination. While one hundred and thirty five (35.0%) respondents have heard of mammography, only twenty seven (7%) respondents go for yearly mammography screening. Three hundred and seventy two (96.6%) respondents know that mastectomy is done as part of the management of breast cancer, but only forty nine (12.7%) respondents have heard about conservative surgery. CONCLUSION: The level of awareness about breast cancer among civil servants in Benin City is low. There is the need to organize series of health education programs to enlighten the women about breast cancer. This can be done by government agencies or the non-governmental organizations. If properly executed, it may influence the attitude of women in Benin City about breast diseases and encourage early presentation to the hospital.

Knowledge Attitude and Practice about Breast Cancer among Civil Servants in Benin City; Nigeria

Background: Breast cancer is often associated with severe morbidity and mortality especially when the patients present late. A major reason why patients present late is the lack of awareness about breast cancer; its complications and the management. Methods: The study was carried out using a structured questionnaire. A total of 400 female civil servants were enlisted in the study; but only 385 respondents completed and returned the forms. Results: Two hundred and seventy seven (72.0) respondents had tertiary level of education. Sixty six (17.1) respondents were in the 30-34-year age group. Three hundred and twelve (81.0) respondents knew correctly that breast lump is usually the first symptom of presentation of breast cancer. One hundred and forty four (37.5) respondents knew that a positive family history of breast cancer is a risk factor; while two hundred and seventy four (71.2) respondents answered that cancer of one breast in a woman increases her chances of having cancer of the other breast. Three hundred and twenty one (83.4) respondents knew that breast cancer could spread from one breast to the other and two hundred and thirty (59.7) knew that breast cancer could spread to other parts of the body. One hundred and eighty three (47.5) respondents would visit the hospital as the first reaction if they were to detect a breast lump; while twenty three (6.0) respondents would ignore the lump. While three hundred and twenty seven (85.0) respondents have heard of breast self- examination; only one hundred (26.0) could correctly describe the procedure of breast self -examination. While one hundred and thirty five (35.0) respondents have heard of mammography; only twenty seven (7) respondents go for yearly mammography screening. Three hundred and seventy two (96.6) respondents know that mastectomy is done as part of the management of breast cancer; but only forty nine (12.7) respondents have heard about conservative surgery. Conclusion: The level of awareness about breast cancer among civil servants in Benin City is low. There is the need to organize series of health education programs to enlighten the women about breast cancer. This can be done by government agencies or the non-governmental organizations. If properly executed; it may influence the attitude of women in Benin City about breast diseases and encourage early presentation to the hospital

Awareness of high blood pressure status, treatment and control in a rural community in Edo State.

A cross-sectional study was carried out in Udo, a rural community in Ovia South-west LGA of Edo State to assess the level of awareness of high blood pressure status, treatment and control. Cluster sampling method was used to select participants and data collection was by researcher administered questionnaire. Blood pressure measurement was by standardized method. A total of 590 respondents with mean age 30.7 +/- 14.6 years participated in the study. The prevalence of hypertension was 20.2% using the WHO/ISH criteria of SBP > or = 140 mmHg and/or DBP > or = 90 mmHg. Twenty two (18.5%) of the hypertensives were aware of their high blood pressure status. Awareness was higher in females, increased with age and decreased with higher educational status. Of those aware of their condition, 77.3% were on treatment and ofthese, 29.4% had adequate blood pressure control. This study has revealed a low level of awareness of high blood pressure status and control in this rural community. Therefore, there is urgent need for regular community-based hypertension screening programmes.

Environmental sanitation in an urban community in benin city, edo state.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the sanitary conditions in an urban community in Benin City, Edo State. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study using multi-staged sampling method. Data collection was by means semi-structured researcher-administered questionnaires. Intervention in the form of health education was carried out among the respondents on various environmental sanitation issues. Data was analysed using the Computer Programme for Epidemiologists (PEPI). RESULTS: A majority 213(50.4%) of the respondents obtained their water from private boreholes while 93(22.0%) obtained irregular pipe-borne water supplies from the public utility board, with only 160(37.8%) having adequate supplies and 291(68.8%) not using any form of water purification methods. 321(75.8%) of the respondents used the water closet for sewage disposal though these toilets were not flushed after every use in 70.7% of cases. The commonest methods of refuse disposal were open dumping (59.0%) and burning (26.4%). Indices of personal hygiene practices were high (average 87.8%), though the proportions of respondents who used soap for hand washing were all lower than those of hand washing without soap. Vector and pest control were mainly by the use of mosquito nettings of doors and windows (30.4%) and fumigation (18.8%). CONCLUSION: The overall level of sanitation is unsatisfactory. There is therefore need for intensive and continued health education to address these deficiencies.

Prevalence of pterygium and pingueculum among motorcyclists in Nigeria.

OBJECTIVES: To find out the prevalence of pingueculum and pterygium among commercial motorcyclists in Benin City, Nigeria and to note any associated or risk factors. DESIGN: A prospective, cross sectional, case control study. SETTING: A local Government Area (Oredo) and University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria. SUBJECTS: One hundred and forty four commercial male motorcyclists in motorcycle parks in the local Government area and a control group of 114 male indoor workers. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Presence of pterygium or pingueculum. RESULTS: One hundred and forty four male motorcyclists formed the subjects of this study. The age range was 18 to 65 years with a mean age of 34.9 +/- 8.0 years. The total number of motorcyclists with pingueculum was 37 with 26 bilateral cases, 63 eyes were involved. The prevalence rate was 25.7%. Pterygium was present in 18 patients including 12 bilateral cases making a total of 30 eyes. The prevalence rate was 12.5% The total number of indoor workers with pingueculum was 24 and it was present in 46 eyes. The prevalence rate was 21.05%. Pterygium was present in 12 eyes of nine persons in the control group and the prevalence rate was 7.9%. There was no association between the duration of work as a commercial motor cyclist and the presence of a pterygium or a pingueculum. The usage of a hat/cap was found to have a protective effect as motorcyclists who do not wear hats are more likely to develop pingueculum than those who wear them. The use of glasses and hats together was found to be protective against the development of pingueculum and pterygium in this study. CONCLUSION: The prevalence rate of 12.5% of pterygium and 25.7% of pingueculum in commercial motorcyclists in this study is quite high when compared with that of the controls. The wearing of face caps/hats was found to have a protective effect. They should be educated about the importance of wearing protective goggles and caps/brimmed hats.

Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and sexual practices among adolescents in Benin City, Nigeria.

A cross sectional study to determine the knowledge of HIV/AIDS and sexual practices of adolescents was undertaken in Benin City, Nigeria. Benin City the capital of Edo State, Nigeria, has 40 government owned secondary schools comprising 6 boys, 10 girls, and 24 mixed. Out of these 3 schools were randomly selected for survey viz; Adolor (boys only), Iyoba (girls only), Army Day (mixed). The sample size for the survey was 920 while the total population for selected schools was 1692 giving a sampling ratio of 1:2. Using the systematic sampling method and class register as sampling frame every other child was selected for the study. However, only 852 students consented to participate giving a response rate of 92.6%. An overwhelming majority of the adolescents were aware of HIV/AIDS but only 16.2% knew the cause of the disease. The submission that kissing, living with infected persons and sharing their utensils could lead to infection was an indication of ignorance. Sexual intercourse was the predominant route of transmission mentioned by 60.0% while multiple sexual partners was prevalent among age group 13-15 years. Playing with sharps, frequent clean head shave with unsterilised instruments in the barbing saloon and promiscuity were some of the activities that adolescents were involved in that could lead to HIV/AIDS infection. In conclusion, the knowledge of the study population was poor and correlates with their reckless sexual practices. Prevention is the best option to the disease. Better informed youths on HIV/AIDS will enhance the principle of prevention.

An assessment of food hygiene among food handlers in a Nigerian university campus.

INTRODUCTION: Food handlers play a major role in ensuring food safety throughout the chain of producing, processing, storage and preparation. Mishandling and disregard for hygiene measures on their part may result in food contamination and its attendant consequences. OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to assess the knowledge and practice of food hygiene by food handlers in a Nigerian University Campus. METHODOLOGY: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out on randomly selected food handlers operating on the campus. A total of 102 respondents were interviewed and inspected using a structural questionnaire administered by researchers. RESULTS: Ninety (88.2%) of the respondents were female, and there was a predominantly poor level knowledge of food hygiene. The practice of storing and reheating leftovers was low and agreed to by 15 (14.7%) of the respondents; there was a very low frequency of hand washing. Inspection of food handlers showed a low level of personal hygiene. Only 31 (30.4%) had had pre employment medical examination and only 49 (48%) had received any form of health education. CONCLUSION: This study has revealed a poor knowledge and practice of food hygiene among food handlers providing food for undergraduates in a Nigerian University. It is recommended that a massive health education campaign directed at both the public and food handlers be embarked on, to enable people take necessary steps to prevent food borne diseases.

Current practices and medico-legal aspects of pre-operative consent.

BACKGROUND: Written informed consent is a pre requisite for surgical intervention as it provides the forum for the patient to appreciate implications of the procedure and the doctor to explain details and effects of the surgery. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the practice of obtaining informed consent pre-operatively by surgeons in Benin City and proffer solutions that would enhance its practice. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study involving surgical patients or their relations or gurdian (in cases involving minors and unconscious patients) who were interviewed with structured ended questionnaires. SETTING: Study was carried out at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, between 5th July and 6th September 2002. RESULTS: One hundred and thirty-three respondents; 53(39.2%) males and 80(60.2%) females were interviewed. Documentations regarding consent were noted in 118(88.7%) cases. Of these, 74.6% felt they had enough time to reflect on the consent obtained while 48(36.1%) respondents were meeting the individual who obtained their consent for the first time. The content of information offered patients prior to obtaining consent was found to be significantly related to the levels of education (X2= 31.44; P<0.001). Over a hundred respondents were not informed of risk of procedure. Nonetheless over 50% of respondents felt satisfied with information supplied. CONCLUSION: The quality of consent obtained from the average patient fell below expected standard. There is need for greater awareness amongst administrators of consent on the essence of improving quality of information given and mode of obtaining consent from patients.

Psychosocial effects of river blindness in a rural community in Nigeria.

Onchocerciasis (river blindness) is a serious public health problem with important socioeconomic consequences. The presence of onchocercal skin lesions is unsightly and has a psychosocial effect on the affected. This cross-sectional study was undertaken to assess the perception and social implication of onchocerciasis in the village of Apana in Nigeria. Apana is a rural community, hyper-endemic for onchocerciasis and currently receiving ivermectin treatment. The village is one of the ten communities of Uzairue district of Etsako West Local Government Area (LGA), Edo State, Nigeria. There are many water streams in the community which serve the domestic needs of the inhabitants but also provide the breeding sites for the vector flies of onchocerciasis. Multi-stage sampling methods were used to select the 385 respondents that participated after informed consent was obtained. A structured researcher-administered questionnaire was the tool for data collection. Of the 385 respondents that participated in the survey, 240 (62.3%) were male while 145 (37.7%) were female. The awareness of the disease among the respondents was fair. They were aware of the nuisance value of blackflies ('Uja-ini') and associated the bite with itching. The signs and symptoms of onchocerciasis were recognised as specific diseases with specific local names. They called itching and rashes 'Erhue', nodules and leopard skin 'Evbiomu-Ogui', worm in the eye 'Okogho-Ikpalo' and blindness 'Orunalo'. The attitude of the non-affected towards the affected was partially discriminatory and suspicious. The affected were socially withdrawn, probably due to the frustration of their health condition. There is a need to improve people's attitude towards the disease and improve disease awareness through appropriate health education, which will encourage the acceptance of ivermectin as adequate treatment and compliance to the treatment regimen to reduce morbidity and promote self-esteem.

Attitude and practice of health care workers in a tertiary health facility towards voluntary counselling and testing for HIV

Context: Nigeria is right now battling with the epidemic of HIV/AIDS with a median prevalence of 5.0. Voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) is being advocated so that people can know their HIV status and modify their behaviour appropriately. Health workers are at risk of contracting and spreading the HIV infection and it would therefore be needful for them to know their status and they also are in a vantage position to promote and encourage VCT. This study was therefore designed to assess their attitude and practice towards this strategy. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among health workers in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital; a tertiary health institution in Benin City; Edo State between October 2002 and April 2003 using a stratified random sampling method in selecting respondents. Information was obtained through the use of self-administered questionnaire. Results: A total of 242 health workers made up of 48.8 doctors; 33.1 nurses; 11.2 laboratory scientists and 6.9 pharmacists were involved in the study. Mean age of respondents was 35.8 + 8.7 years. One hundred and seventy four (71.9) had actually been screened for HIV. Eighty-two (47.1) of these did so voluntarily while it was mandatory for 92 (52.9) others. A total of 227 (93.8) appreciated the importance of knowing one's HIV status observing that it will enable them take precautions (52.1) and enable them commence treatment early; (19.4). Conclusion: Since VCT for HIV is an important component of HIV prevention and care; it should be promoted in health care settings

Hospital workers' opinions on the predisposing factors to blood-related work accidents in Central Hospital, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION: Hospital workers are prone to accidental injuries during their day-to-day activities at work. These accidental injuries are of importance because many of these predispose the workers to blood-borne infections. METHODS: A total of 242 hospital workers at Central Hospital, Benin City, Edo State participated in a cross-sectional study carried out between June and August 1999 aimed at finding out the predisposing factors to blood-related work accidents. The study group consisted of 53 doctors, 34 laboratory workers and 155 nurses. All doctors and laboratory workers at Central Hospital were involved in the study, while 50% of the nursing population were involved in the study. The nurses were selected using a stratified random sampling method. The respondents completed a pretested self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: The results showed that the four main factors responsible for accidents among the hospital workers were: non-availability of protective measures; desire to hasten the procedure; type of procedure; and use of inadequate/inappropriate equipment. The major factor responsible for accidents at work among hospital workers was non-availability of protective measures. RECOMMENDATIONS: It is therefore recommended that adequate materials and equipment should be provided. This study could be further validated using a qualitative study design (focus group discussions).