Determinants of poor glycemic control among type 2 diabetes in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Prior primary studies have examined the prevalence and factors associated with glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, but studies with evidence-based synthesis of the primary data remained unknown. Hence, we aimed to determine the prevalence of poor glycemic control and identify determinants of poor glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes in Ethiopia. Methods: We performed searches in the online databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library. Microsoft Excel was used to extract data, and STATA statistical software (v. 16) was used for analysis. Publication bias was explored by forest plots, Begg's rank test, and Egger's regression test. To check for heterogeneity, I2 was computed. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on region and publication year. In addition, the pooled odds ratio for associated factors was calculated. Results: Out of 1,045 studies assessed, 23 studies were included fulfilling our inclusion criteria. In all, 6,643 individuals were enrolled in the study. It was estimated that 61.11% of type 2 diabetes patients had poor glycemic control (95% CI, 57.14-65.19). The subgroup analysis by study region and publication year revealed that the highest prevalence was observed in the Addis Ababa region (68.57%) and studies published before 2019 (61.76%), respectively. Poor glycemic control was associated with older age > 50 years (AOR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.27-2.97), not attending formal education (AOR = 3.60; 95% CI: 2.75, 4.46), having diabetes for longer duration (10 years; AOR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.65-3.49), having comorbidity (AOR = 2.43; 95% CI: 2.05-2.80), and low adherence to diabetes management (AOR = 3.67; 95% CI: 2.41-4.92). Conclusion: Our findings indicate a high prevalence of poor glycemic control among people with type 2 diabetes in Ethiopia. Being older, not attending formal education, having a longer duration of diabetes, having comorbidity, and having low adherence to diabetes management were all associated. Therefore, we recommend health organizations implement measures to monitor and control patients' blood glucose levels. Patient education and training of healthcare professionals could serve as a short-term strategy to achieve adequate glycemic control. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022349792, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022349792.

Alcohol and khat dual use among male adults in Ethiopia: A multilevel multinomial analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Substance use has been a long-standing global public health problem with detrimental physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences at individual and societal levels. Large-scale and gender-specific studies on the dual use of alcohol and khat are limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of dual alcohol and khat use and identify associated factors among male adults in Ethiopia. METHODS: The present study used data from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS). Prior to data analysis, the data were weighted to ensure a representative sample and obtain a reliable estimate. Multilevel multinomial logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with alcohol and khat use. Adjusted Odds Ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence interval and P value ≤ 0.05 in the multivariable model were used to identify significant factors associated with alcohol and khat use. RESULTS: This study included 12,688 participants, of which (80.29%) were from rural areas. The mean age of participants was 30.92 years old. The prevalence of neither Alcohol nor Khat users were (33.2%); 95% Confidence Interval (CI) (32.4-34.1) only Khat users (22.0%); 95% CI (21.2-22.7), only Alcohol users (35.6%); 95% CI (34.7-36.4), and dual Alcohol and Khat users were (9.0%); 95% CI (8.5-9.5). At the individual level: being in the age group of 15-29 years and 30-49years increases the odds of Khat chewing by AOR (95%CI) 2.27 (1.75, 2.89) and 1.55 (1.16, 2.07) times, respectively. At the community level: males from Amhara 3.49(1.91, 6.42), and Tigray 2.7(1.49, 5.05) regions were more likely to drink alcohol. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of dual alcohol and khat use implies for greater access to evidence-based treatment. Multiple factors are associated with alcohol and khat use at individual and community levels. All male adults would benefit from targeted preventive strategies.

Health professional assisted Kangaroo mother care practice in Ethiopian health care facilities: evidence from the 2016 Ethiopian demographic and health survey.

BACKGROUND: Worldwide, 15 million children born prematurely every year and over one million of them died because of prematurity caused complications. However, three-fourths of deaths from preterm related complications are preventable by using Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC). The Ethiopian government has been implementing a guideline that declares putting all low birth weight neonates at KMC. The aim of this study was to assess health professionals' assisted KMC practice and its associated factors among Ethiopian mothers who gave birth at health facilities. METHODOLOGY: This study used the 2016Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data (EDHS). The 2016EDHS used a stratified two stage sampling method to select a representative sample using validated questioner. The sample we used in this study after cleaning the children's data set from the 2016EDHS was 2,960. Logistic regression model was used to assess the association of health professional assisted KMC practice and predictor variables. RESULTS: Mothers who gave birth in health facilities and practiced kangaroo mother care were 1808(62.1%). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, women from poorest (AOR, (95%CI)), (0.60, (0.43, 0.81)) and poorer (0.62, (0.46, 0.86)) socio-economic status were not practicing KMC. CONCLUSIONS: The coverage of health professional assisted KMC practice was far lower than the expectation for mothers who gave birth in health facilities (100%). Low socio-economic status was associated with not practicing KMC. A further study on why mothers from low wealth index did not practicing KMC while they were in health facilities may be needed.

Depression and determinants among diabetes mellitus patients in Ethiopia, a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Primary studies have estimated the prevalence of depression and its determinants among diabetes patients. However, studies synthesizing this primary evidence are limited. Hence, this systematic review aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and identify determinants of depression among diabetes in Ethiopia. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis included a search of PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, PsycINFO, and Cochrane library. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel and analyzed using STATA statistical software (v. 14). Data were pooled using a random-effects model. Forest plots, and Egger's regression test were all used to check for publication bias. Heterogeneity (I)2 was computed. Subgroup analysis was done by region, publication year, and depression screening instrument. In addition, the pooled odds ratio for determinants was calculated. RESULTS: Sixteen studies, including 5808 participants were analyzed. The prevalence of depression in diabetes was estimated to be 34.61% (95% CI: 27.31-41.91). According to subgroup analysis by study region, publication year, and screening instrument, the highest prevalence was observed in Addis Ababa (41.98%), studies published before 2020 (37.91%), and studies that used Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-D) (42.42%,) respectively. Older age > 50 years (AOR = 2.96; 95% CI: 1.71-5.11), being women (AOR = 2.31; 95% CI: 1.57, 3.4), longer duration with diabetes (above 5 years) (AOR = 1.98; 95% CI: 1.03-3.8), and limited social support (AOR = 2.37; 95% CI: 1.68-3.34), were the determinants of depression in diabetic patients. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that the prevalence of depression in diabetes is substantial. This result underscores the importance of paying particular attention to prevent depression among diabetes. Being older, not attending formal education, longer duration with diabetes, having comorbidity, and low adherence to diabetes management were all associated. These variables may help clinicians identify patients at high risk of depression. Future studies focusing on the causal association between depression and diabetes are highly recommended.

Virological failure and its predictors among human immunodeficiency virus infected individuals on second line antiretroviral treatment in North-East Ethiopia, 2021.

INTRODUCTION: Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) becomes a manageable chronic disease due to the presence of effective prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care accesses. Viral load cascade analyses are important to identify gaps in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS treatment and care for quality improvements. OBJECTIVE: Time to Virological Failure and its Predictors among HIV Infected Individuals on Second Line Antiretroviral Treatment (SLART) in North-East Ethiopia, 2021. METHODS: Institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted on 474 HIV-infected individuals who were on SLART between September 2016 and April 2020. A universal sampling technique was used to recruit study participants. Data were entered by EpiData-3.3.1 and analyzed by STATA-14. Cox proportional hazard assumptions were checked to determine the effect of predictor variables on virological failure (VF). The study was conducted from February 1 to April 30, 2021. RESULTS: The rate of VF in this study was 15.4% with an incidence rate of 4.93 per 100 person-years. As participants' age and duration of ART use increased by 1 year the hazards of VF was reduced by 2.9% (AHR: 0.971, 95% CI: 0.945, 0.995) and 10.6% (AHR: 0.894, 95% CI: 0.828, 0.963), respectively. The hazards of VF were twice higher among those who were on a non-protease inhibitor-based regimen. Individuals who had a history of making enhanced adherence counseling (EAC) sessions during SLART had three times more risk to develop VF (AHR: 3.374, 95% CI: 1.790, 6.361). CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The rate of VF among SLART users was high. Keeping SLART users on PI-based regimens may improve virological outcomes in HIV care and treatment. Making EAC sessions effective in promoting better ART adherence might reduce VF.

Prevalence of urinary tract infections and risk factors among diabetic patients in Ethiopia, a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common clinical problem that comprises 1-6% of medical referrals and includes urinary tract, bladder, and kidney infections. UTI is the most commonly occurring infectious disease in diabetic patients. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of urinary tract infection and its associated factors in Ethiopia. METHODS: The online libraries of PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct, were searched. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel and analyzed using STATA statistical software (v. 16). Forest plots, Begg's rank test, and Egger's regression test were all used to check for publication bias. To look for heterogeneity, I2 was computed, and an overall estimated analysis was carried out. Subgroup analysis was done by region, and publication year. Meta-regression analysis using study-level covariates as predictors of study-level estimates to explore the determinants of potential heterogeneity in our pooled estimates. The pooled odds ratio for related covariates was also calculated. RESULTS: Out of 1128 studies assessed, 14 met our criteria and were included in the study. A total of 3773 people were included in the study. The prevalence of urinary tract infection was estimated to be 15.97% (95% CI: 12.72-19.23). According to subgroup analysis, the highest prevalence was observed in the SNNP region (19.21%) and studies conducted in and after 2018 (17.98%). Being female (AOR = 3.77; 95% CI: 1.88, 5.65), being illiterate (AOR = 5.29; 95% CI: 1.98, 8.61), prior urinary tract infection history (AOR = 3.04; 95% CI: 2.16-3.92) were the predictor of urinary tract infection. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of urinary tract infections was high in Ethiopia. Female gender, illiteracy, and prior UTI history were associated with urinary tract infections. Since UTIs in diabetic patients has serious medical and public health consequence, screening of UTIs in diabetic patients and early initiation of treatment should become a public health priority.

Prevalence of central obesity and associated factors in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Obesity is a global public health concern that is now on the rise, especially in low- and middle-income nations. Despite the fact that there are several studies reporting the prevalence of central obesity among adults in Ethiopia, there is a lack of a systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizing the existing observational studies. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of central obesity and its associated factors in Ethiopia. Methods: Online libraries such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, and Addis Ababa University were searched. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel and analyzed using STATA statistical software (v. 16). Forest plots, Begg's rank test, and Egger's regression test were all used to check for publication bias. To look for heterogeneity, I2 was computed, and an overall estimated analysis was carried out. Subgroup analysis was done by region and study setting. In addition, the pooled odds ratio for related covariates was calculated. Results: Out of 685 studies assessed, 20 met our criteria and were included in the study. A total of 12,603 people were included in the study. The prevalence of central obesity was estimated to be 37.31% [95% confidence interval (CI): 29.55-45.07]. According to subgroup analysis by study region and setting, the highest prevalence was observed in the Dire Dawa region (61.27%) and community-based studies (41.83%), respectively. Being a woman (AOR = 6.93; 95% CI: 3.02-10.85), having better socioeconomic class (AOR = 5.45; 95% CI: 0.56-10.34), being of age 55 and above (AOR = 5.23; 95% CI: 2.37-8.09), being physically inactive (AOR = 1.80; 95% CI: 1.37-2.24), being overweight (AOR = 4.00; 95% CI: 2.58-5.41), being obese (AOR = 6.82; 95% CI: 2.21-11.43), and having hypertension (AOR = 3.84; 95% CI: 1.29-6.40) were the factors associated with central obesity. Conclusion: The prevalence of central obesity was high in Ethiopia. Being a woman, having a higher socioeconomic class, being older, being physically inactive, being overweight or obese, and having hypertension were all associated. Therefore, it is vital for the government and health organizations to design and implement preventive measures like early detection, close monitoring, and positive reversal of central obesity in all patients and the general population. High-quality investigations on the prevalence of central obesity in the Ethiopian people are required to better understand the status of central obesity in Ethiopia. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier: CRD42022329234.

Mortality and Loss to Follow-Up Among HIV-Exposed Infants After Option B+ Guideline Implementation in Amhara Regional State Referral Hospitals, Ethiopia.

Background: Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV program (PMTCT) is a comprehensive approach that aimed for the wellbeing of all HIV-infected women, to prevent new HIV infection among infants born to HIV-positive mothers, and providing management for HIV-positive women and infants. Nevertheless, there was considerably high attrition within the prevention of mother-to-child transmission programs that was merely because of loss to follow-up (LTFU) followed by mortality. In resource-limited countries, one-third of infected children die before 1 year, and more than half of them die before 2 years. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence or incidence of mortality and LTFU among infants born from HIV-positive mothers in the Amhara regional state referral hospitals, Ethiopia. Methods: This study was conducted in five Amhara regional state referral hospitals' prevention of mother-to-child transmission departments. A simple random sampling technique with proportional allocation was used to assess the outcomes of 221 exposed infants. A retrospective cohort design was used in selecting the 221 exposed infants' document from the referral hospitals of the region, Amhara. The exposed infants' profiles were documented between January 1, 2014 and May 30, 2017. Results: This study described attritions (death and loss-to-follow-up) of exposed babies in PMTCT departments of Amhara regional state referral hospitals in Ethiopia. In this study, low LTFU with zero death was reported. Residence, immunization status of babies, and place of delivery were independent factors of LTFU. Conclusions: The cumulative incidence of mortality in this study was zero. This assured that the recommended option is substantial for the elimination of HIV-caused death in 2030 as per WHO plan. However, the cumulative incidence of LTFU was not zero.

Breast Self-Examination Practice Among Female University Students in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Breast self-examination (BSE) is one of the most feasible methods of screening for early stages of breast cancer. However, the practice rate is insufficient in many low and middle-income countries including Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of BSE practice among female university students in Ethiopia. METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched for studies that assessed BSE practice among female students in Ethiopian universities. The study included articles published from January 1st, 2010 to June 16th, 2020. The Cochran's Q chi-square and the respective I2 test statistics were used to check heterogeneity among the included studies. To assess publication biases, the funnel plot and Egger's regression tests were employed. Subgroup analysis was done by using different characteristics of studies. Sensitivity analysis was also run to assess the effect of a single study on the pooled outcome. STATA™ Version 14 software packages were employed for data analysis. RESULTS: Sixteen (n = 16) studies with 5,743 participants were included to estimate the pooled prevalence of BSE practice. The prevalence of regular BSE practice reported in the studies ranges from 0% to 26.4%. The estimated pooled prevalence of regular BSE practice among university students in Ethiopia is 11.23% which is very low. The prevalence of BSE practice was high, 13.6% in studies published before 2015, 12.0% among health science students, and 12.6% in studies with a sample size of 384 participants and above. In addition, the estimated pooled prevalence of irregular self-breast-examination practice was 33.28%. CONCLUSION: The rate of BSE practice among female university students is low. Thus, awareness strategies need to be designed to increase the practice rate among women in the country as BSE is one of the most feasible strategies in early detection of breast cancer if properly implemented.

Evidence from 2016 Ethiopian demographic and health survey data: association between post health education maternal knowledge and neonatal danger signs.

BACKGROUND: Globally, 4 million infants die in their first 4weeks of life every year; above 8 million infants died before their first year of birthday, and nearly 10 million children died before their 5th birthday. Majority of the deaths were occurred at home because of not receiving health care. In Ethiopia, 120,000 infants died during their first 4 weeks of life. The aim of this study was to assess maternal knowledge about neonatal danger signs and its associations after they had been thought by health professionals in Ethiopia. METHODS: This study used the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data (EDHS) as a data source. The 2016 EDHS data were collected using a two stage sampling method. All the regions were stratified into urban and rural areas. The study sample taken from the 2016 EDHS data and used in this further analysis was 325. A logistic regression model was used to assess the associations with post health education maternal knowledge on neonatal danger signs. RESULTS: In this study, mothers who had poor knowledge about neonatal danger signs (NDS) were 69.8 % (227) (95 %CI (64.8, 74.8 %). In the final logistic model, wanted no more child ((AOR = 4.15), (95 %CI = 1.12, 15.41)), female child ((AOR = 0.58), (95 %CI = 0.34, 0.98)), primary level maternal education ((AOR = 0.42), (95 %CI = 0.19, 0.92)), secondary level maternal education ((AOR = 0.37), (95 %CI = 0.16, 0.91)), and average size of child ((AOR = 2.64), (95 %CI = 1.26, 5.53)), and small size child ((AOR = 4.53), (95 %CI = 1.52, 13.51)) associated with post health education maternal knowledge about NDS. CONCLUSION: The mothers' knowledge about NDS is poor even they were gave a birth in health facilities. Wanting of additional child, child sex, maternal education and size of child were associated with NDS knowledge. This indicates that the mode of health education provided for mother might not be appropriate and needs protocol changes.

Quality of life and its associated factors among epileptic patients attending public hospitals in North Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Epilepsy is thought to be caused by witchcraft, evil spirit, and God's punishment for sins in many developing countries. As a result, people with epilepsy and their families usually suffer from stigma, discrimination, depression, and other psychiatric problems. Thus, this study aimed to assess the quality of life and its associated factors among epileptic patients attending public hospitals in North Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed in this study. A simple random sampling technique was utilized. Health-related quality of life was measured based on the total score of the Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory (QOLIE-31) instrument. Data were entered into Epi-data 3.1 statistical package and exported to SPSS Version 20 for further analysis. Linear regression models were used to assess the relationship between quality of life and the independent variables. Statistically significant values were declared at a P-value of < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 395 patients participated in the study making the response rate 98.5%. The mean age of the participants was 32.39 ±10.71 years. More than half, 199 (50.4%) of epileptic patients had an overall weighted average health related quality of life score of mean and above. Male sex (B = 4.34, 95%CI, 0.41, 8.27, P = 0.03), higher educational status (B = 7.18, 95%CI, 1.39, 13.00, P = 0.015) and age at onset of epilepsy (B = 0.237, 95%CI, 0.02, 0.45, P = 0.035) were associated with increased health related quality of life score. On the other hand, family history of epilepsy (B = -4.78, 95%CI,-9.24,-0.33, P = 0.035), uncontrolled seizure (B = -11.08, 95%CI,-15.11,-7.05, P < 0.001), more than 5 pre-treatment number of seizures (B = -4.86, 95%CI,-8.91,-0.81, P = 0.019), poor drug adherence (B = -11.65, 95%CI,-16.06,-7.23, P < 0.001), having moderate (B = -4.526, 95%CI,-8.59,-0.46, P = 0.029) to sever (B = -12.84, 95%CI,-18.30,-7.37, P < 0.001) anxiety and depression, believing that epilepsy is caused by evil spirit (B = -7.04, 95%CI,-11.46,-2.61, P = 0.002), drinking alcohol (B = -5.42, 95%CI,-10.72,-0.13, P = 0.045), and having other co-morbidities (B = -9.35, 95%CI,-14.35,-4.36, P < 0.001) were significantly negatively associated with the health related quality of life score among epileptic patients. CONCLUSIONS: Only around half of the epileptic patients have a good health-related quality of life. In addition, multiple variables including family history, uncontrolled seizure, and poor drug adherence were associated with quality of life among epileptic patients. Hence, targeting these variables in epilepsy management is recommended.

Trends of proximate low birth weight and associations among children under-five years of age: Evidence from the 2016 Ethiopian demographic and health survey data.

BACKGROUND: Low birth weight puts a newborn at increased risk of death and illness, and limits their productivity in the adulthood period later. The incidence of low birth weight has been selected as an important indicator for monitoring major health goals by the World Summit for Children. The 2014 World Health Organization estimation of child death indicated that 4.53% of total deaths in Ethiopia were due to low birth weight. The aim of this study was to assess trends of proximate low birth weight and associations of low birth weight with potential determinants from 2011 to 2016. METHODS: This study used the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data (EDHS) as data sources. According to the 2016 EDHS data, all the regions were stratified into urban and rural areas. The variable "size of child" measured according to the report of mothers before two weeks of the EDHS takes placed. The study sample refined from EDHS data and used for this further analysis were 7919 children. A logistic regression model was used to assess the association of proximate low birth weight and potential determinates of proximate low birth weight. But, the data were tested to model fitness and were fitted to Hosmer-Lemeshow-goodness of fit. RESULTS: The prevalence of proximate low birth weight in Ethiopia was 26.9% (2132), (95%CI = 25.4, 27.9). Of the prevalence of child size in year from 2011 to 2016, 17.1% was very small, and 9.8% was small. In the final multivariate logistic regression model, region (AOR = xx), (955%CI = xx), Afar (AOR = 2.44), (95%CI = 1.82, 3.27), Somalia (AOR = 0.73), (95%CI = 0.55, 0.97), Benishangul-Gumz (AOR = 0.48), (95%CI = 0.35, 0.67), SNNPR (AOR = 0.67), (95%CI = 0.48, 0.93), religion, Protestant (AOR = 0.76), (95%CI = 0.60, 0.95), residence, rural (AOR = 1.39), (95%CI = 1.07, 1.81), child sex, female (AOR = 1.43), (95%CI = 1.29, 1.59), birth type, multiple birth during first parity (AOR = 2.18), (95%CI = 1.41, 3.37), multiple birth during second parity (AOR = 2.92), (95%CI = 1.86, 4.58), preparedness for birth, wanted latter child (AOR = 1.26), (95%CI = 1.09, 1.47), fast and rapid breathing (AOR = 1.22), (95%CI = 1.02, 1.45), maternal education, unable to read and write (AOR = 1.46), (95%CI = 1.56, 2.17), and maternal age, 15-19 years old (AOR = 1.86), (95%CI = 1.19, 2.92) associated with proximate low birth weight. CONCLUSIONS: The proximate LBW prevalence as indicated by small child size is high. Region, religion, residence, birth type, preparedness for birth, fast and rapid breathing, maternal education, and maternal age were associated with proximate low birth weight. Health institutions should mitigating measures on low birth weight with a special emphasis on factors identified in this study.

Impact of knowledge and attitude on the utilization rate of cervical cancer screening tests among Ethiopian women: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer is a major public health problem, particularly in resource-limited settings. The use of vaccination and screening tests has reduced the burden of cervical cancer in developed countries. However, the situation is quite the reverse in developing countries, including Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to estimate the pooled impact of knowledge and attitude on the prevalence of cervical cancer screening service utilization rates among Ethiopian women. METHODS: Studies that examined cervical cancer screening service utilization among women in Ethiopia were searched from five international databases. Cochran's Q chi-square and the I-squared test statistics were used to check the presence of heterogeneity among the included studies. The funnel plot and Egger's regression tests were also used to assess the presence of publication bias. A weighted DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model was employed. Subgroup analysis was performed by the study population concerning the prevalence of cervical cancer screening service utilization rates. Sensitivity analysis was also conducted to assess the effect of a single study on the pooled estimates. Data analysis was performed using STATA™ Version 14 software. RESULTS: A total of 44 studies with 28,186 study participants were included. The estimated pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening service utilization was 8.11% (95% CI: 7.26, 8.97). After adjustment for publication bias with the trim and fill analysis, the estimated prevalence rate appeared to be 5.47% (95% CI: 4.66, 6.28). The prevalence of cervical cancer screening service utilization was higher among HIV-positive women, 16.85%, and in studies conducted among health care workers, 10.24%, than the general population. The pooled effect of knowledge on the utilization of cervical cancer screening tests among Ethiopian women was statistically significant (AOR = 3.20, 95% CI: 1.63, 6.31). Similarly, the pooled estimated odds of utilizing cervical cancer screening tests were 6.1 times higher (AOR = 6.09, 95% CI: 1.09, 34.36) among women who had a favorable attitude towards the screening tests. CONCLUSION: Knowledge and attitude had a significant impact on the prevalence of cervical cancer screening test utilization rates among women in Ethiopia. However, the prevalence of cervical cancer screening service utilization among Ethiopian women is very low. Hence, large-scale awareness programs and situation-based strategies need to be designed to increase the uptake of cervical cancer screening services in the country.

Association between birth interval and wasting in children under 5 years of age in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol.

INTRODUCTION: According to the UNICEF, WHO and World Bank joint estimation, 1 in every 13 children suffered from wasting globally. The highest burden of undernutrition recorded in Asia and Africa. Wasting remains a considerable public health problem in Ethiopia despite the introduction of exhaustive nutritional programmes. As reported in the literature, the prevalence of wasting in Ethiopia has remained high over the last four decades. In Ethiopia, more than one-third of child deaths are associated with malnutrition. The current nutritional interventions implemented in Ethiopia need to be evidence based. For this purpose, systematic review is preferable as it can present a more reliable and precise estimate than individual studies. The aim of this review is to assess the pooled prevalence of wasting and its association with birth interval in Ethiopia. METHODOLOGY: Studies published after 20 January 2012 will be retrieved from databases, mainly PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Embase, CINAHL and HINARI. The articles retrieved from databases will be selected after reading the title, abstract and full text. Three reviewers will independently assess the quality of each study using both the Joanna Briggs Institute and Ottawa Scale critical appraisal checklists. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist will be used to maintain scientific strength. Funnel plots, Egger's test and Begg's test will be used to deal with publication bias, and I2, forest plots and Cochrane's Q square statistics will be used for heterogeneity. Potential causes of heterogeneity will be explored through sensitivity and subgroup analyses. Because heterogeneity among studies is inevitable, given the wide geographical area and variety of study designs, the Der-Simonian and Laird random-effects model will be used. The presence of a statistical association between birth interval and wasting will be declared if the p value is <0.05 with the 95% CI. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical issues will not be applicable to this review and meta-analysis. This review and meta-analysis will report the pooled prevalence of wasting and its association with birth interval in Ethiopia. Effort will be made to publish the findings in a peer-reviewed journal such as the Ethiopian Journal of Health and Development, and the findings will be presented at national conferences. A hard copy will also be sent to Woldia University and Debre Berhan University.

The perceived determinants and recommendations by mothers and healthcare professionals on the loss-to-follow-up in Option B+ program and child mortality in the Amhara region, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: The third United Nations Sustainable Development Goal includes a commitment to end AIDS-related death by 2030. In line with the Goal, Option B+ programs hold a great promise for eliminating vertical transmission of HIV. Option B+ was introduced in 2013 in Ethiopia. The Global Plan identified Ethiopia as one of 22 high priority countries requiring improvement in prevention of mother to child HIV transmission services. Despite HIV treatment being free in Ethiopia, only 59% of children are on treatment. The discrepancies in high uptake of Option B+ and low numbers of children in Ethiopia can be attributed to Loss-to-follow-up, which is estimated from 16 to 80%. While LFTU is expected in the region, no-to-minimal evidence exists on the magnitude and its determinants, which hampers the development of interventions and strategies to reduce LFTU. The purpose of this study is to explore perception of mothers and healthcare providers on determinants of and recommendations to reduce LTFU and HIV exposed infants' mortality. METHOD: Explorative, descriptive qualitative study conducted in five zones of Amhara region. The sample consisted of mothers enrolled to the option B+ programs at the five referral hospitals PMTCT departments, nurses and midwives working in those departments, and HIV officers in zonal departments. Data were collected in 2019 using in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using content analysis and deduced to themes. RESULTS: Overall, nine themes were identified from the interviews. Five themes represented the determinants of LTFU and mortality while four themes addressed the recommendations to reduce LFTU among mothers and their infant mortality. The determinants themes centered on apathy, stigma and discrimination, poor access to services, healthcare providers behavior and attitudes, and social determinants of health. While recommendations themes suggested that improving access, capitalizing on psychosocial support, education and awareness, and empowerment. CONCLUSIONS: Social and structural issues are major contributors to low retention of mothers and death of children due to HIV. A multi-stakeholder approach, including structural changes, are required to support women and their children to ensure that individuals, communities and country enjoy the full benefits of option B+ and lead to an HIV free generation.

Sex difference in coronavirus disease (COVID-19): a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the sex difference in the prevalence of COVID-19 confirmed cases. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING: PubMed, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were searched for related information. The authors developed a data extraction form on an Excel sheet and the following data from eligible studies were extracted: author, country, sample size, number of female patients and number of male patients. Using STATA V.14 for analysis, the authors pooled the overall prevalence of men and/or women using a random-effect meta-analysis model. The authors examined the heterogeneity in effect size using Q statistics and I2 statistics. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed. Publication bias was also checked. PARTICIPANTS: Studies on COVID-19 confirmed cases were included. INTERVENTION: Sex (male/female) of COVID-19 confirmed cases was considered. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome was prevalence of COVID-19 among men and women. RESULTS: A total of 57 studies with 221 195 participants were used in the analysis. The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 among men was found to be 55.00 (51.43-56.58, I2=99.5%, p<0.001). Sensitivity analysis showed the findings were not dependent on a single study. Moreover, a funnel plot showed symmetrical distribution. Egger's regression test p value was not significant, which indicates absence of publication bias in both outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of symptomatic COVID-19 was found to be higher in men than in women. The high prevalence of smoking and alcohol consumption contributed to the high prevalence of COVID-19 among men. Additional studies on the discrepancies in severity and mortality rate due to COVID-19 among men and women and the associated factors are recommended.

Treatment outcome of Severe Acute Malnutrition and associated factors among under-five children in outpatient therapeutics unit in Gubalafto Wereda, North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia, 2019.

BACKGROUND: In Ethiopia, uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition is managed through the outpatient therapeutic program at health posts level. This brings the services for the management of Severe Acute Malnutrition closer to the community by making services available at decentralized treatment points within the primary health care settings. So far, evidence of the treatment outcome of the program is limited. OBJECTIVE: The main aim of this study was to determine the magnitude of treatment outcomes of severe acute malnutrition and associated factors among under-five children at outpatient therapeutic feeding units in Gubalafto Wereda, Ethiopia, 2019. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted on 600 children who had been managed for Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) under Outpatient Therapeutic Program (OTP) in Gubalafto Wereda from April to May/2019. The children were selected using systematic random sampling from 9 health posts. The structured, pre-tested, and adapted questionnaire was used to collect the data. The data was entered by using EPI-data Version 4.2 and exported to SPSS version 24.0 for analysis. Bivariate and Multivariate regression was also carried out to determine the association between dependent and independent variables. RESULTS: A total of 600 records of children with a diagnosis of severe acute malnutrition were reviewed. Of these cases of malnutrition, the recovery rate was found to be 65%. The death rate, default rate, and medical transfer were 2.0, 16.0, and 17.0 respectively. Immunized children had 6.85 times higher odds of recovery than children who were not immunized (AOR = 6.85 at 95% CI (3.68-12.76)). The likelihood of recovery was 3.78 times higher among children with new admission than those with re-admission (AOR = 3.78at 95% CI ((1.77-8.07))). Likewise, children provided with amoxicillin were 3.38 times recovered than their counterparts (AOR = 3.38 at 95% CI ((1.61-7.08))). SAM treatment in OTP is beneficial because of its local access for most severe cases since children reach early before developing complications as a result fatalities will be reduced. CONCLUSIONS: The recovery rate and medical transfer were lower than the sphere standard. Presence of cough, presence of diarrhea admission category, provision of amoxicillin, and immunization status were factors identified as significantly associated with treatment outcome of severe acute malnutrition. The impact on increasing the recovery rates of children treated using the OTP service indicates the potential benefits of increasing the capacity of such services across a target region on child mortality/recovery. Timely intervention is another benefit of a more local service like OTP. Building capacity of OTP service providers and regular monitoring of service provision based on the management protocol was recommended.

Evidence from 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey Data: Maternal Practice in Managing Childhood Diarrhea at Home.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associations of maternal practice in managing diarrheal diseases at home among Ethiopian mothers whose children were younger than five years of age. METHODS: This study was a secondary analysis of the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) data. The 2016 EDHS data were collected using stratified two-stage sampling method. Nine hundred and sixty-two mothers who had children who experienced diarrhea two weeks prior to the survey were included. A logistic regression model was used to assess the associations with maternal practice. RESULTS: In this study, 672 (69.9%) of mothers had limited understanding of home-based diarrheal disease management. Poorest wealth index (AOR, (95%CI), ((3.33), (1.38, 8.02), poorer wealth index ((3.55), (1.43, 8.80), medium wealth index ((3.10), (1.24, 7.72), and low level maternal education ((1.60), (1.51, 4.10) increased the odds of inadequate maternal practice. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of inadequate maternal practice was high. Lowest wealth quantities and low level maternal education increased the likelihood of inadequate maternal practice. Health facilities should emphasize teaching mothers about home based diarrheal management. PRACTICAL IMPLICATION: Inadequate personal and environmental hygiene are the major cause of diarrheal disease, which is common among children under five years of age. Diarrhea is not fatal by itself, but it causes dehydration, which can ultimately result in child mortality if not treated. Fortunately, dehydration can be managed at home, which is an opportunity for nurses and health professionals to address this public health problem.

Neonatal sepsis and its associated factors in East Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to reveal the magnitude of neonatal sepsis and its associated factors in East Africa. METHODS: Using PRISMA guideline, we reviewed and meta-analyzed studies from Google Scholar, Cochrane library, and PubMed; last search date: October 15, 2019. Heterogeneity across the studies was estimated. The subgroup analysis was done. Publication bias was also assessed. RESULTS: A total of 26 studies with 11,239 participants are included. The pooled prevalence of neonatal sepsis in East Africa was 29.765% (95% CI 23.36-35.94). Home delivery (AOR = 2.67; 95% CI 1.15-4.00), maternal history of urinary tract infection (UTI) (AOR = 2.083; 95% CI 0.24-3.93), gestational age/(preterm) (AOR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.04-2.08), prolonged labor (AOR = 3.23; 95% CI 0.04-6.51) and PROM (AOR = 1.95; 95% CI 0.53-3.37) were identified associated factors of neonatal sepsis. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of neonatal sepsis in East Africa remains high. The relevant stockholders should give attention for neonates delivered from women with intranatal fever to prevent neonatal sepsis. Pregnant women should be screened for UTI. Appropriate interventions should be put in place to manage PROM to decrease the chance of ascending microorganisms.

Prevalence and Determinants of Early Initiation of Sexual Intercourse Among Youth Girls in Ethiopia.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence and associated factors of early sexual initiation among youth girls in Ethiopia. DESIGN AND METHODS: From 15,683 women participants of the 2016 EDHS, a sub-sample of 6401 youth girls aged 15-24 years were selected; from which 5737 youth girls who had a complete response to all variables of interest were retained for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable regression analysis were carried out. RESULTS: The prevalence of early initiation of sexual intercourse among study participants was 2201(38.4%). The mean age of sexual intercourse initiation was 16.5 years. The odds of early sexual initiation was higher among respondents belonging to age group of 20-24 (AOR = 6.81, 95% CI (8.7, 12.13)), being from rural areas (AOR = 1.68, 95%CI (1.04, 2.70)), living in Gambella (AOR = 2.38, 95%CI (1.19, 4.78)), being from poorest wealth quintile (AOR = 1.41, 95%CI (0.83, 2.41)), being not employed (AOR = 1.59, 95%CI (1.23, 2.05)), have comprehensive HIV knowledge (AOR = 1.2, 95% CI (1.74, 2.35), didn't read newspaper or magazine (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI (1.77,2.53)), never used internet (AOR = 3.19, 95% CI (0.87,11.66)), smoked cigarette (AOR = 1.47, 95%CI (0.41, 5.19), used modern contraceptive (AOR = 1.20, 95%CI (0.81, 1.77)), used Voluntary, Counseling and Testing (VCT) service (AOR = 1.48, 95%CI, (1.11, 1.97)) and chewed chat (AOR = 2.21, 95%CI (3.41, 4.41)) when compared with their counterparts. CONCLUSIONS: The current study revealed that early sexual initiation is an important public health problem among youth girls in Ethiopia. Factors which were significantly associated with early initiation of sexual intercourse include: being older age, being from rural residence, living in Gambella region, being unemployment, being from poor wealth quintile, lack of comprehensive HIV knowledge, decreased frequency of reading newspaper or magazine, lack of use of internet, cigarette smoking, VCT utilization, and chat chewing. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: A legal age for buying alcohol, cigarette, and chat should be set. Strategies focusing on poverty reduction, entrepreneurship, and awareness creation on the consequence of early initiation of sexual intercourse should be emphasized.