An unintended pregnancy is a pregnancy that is either mistimed or unplanned. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of unintended pregnancy as well as to document the determinant factors among p...An unintended pregnancy is a pregnancy that is either mistimed or unplanned. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of unintended pregnancy as well as to document the determinant factors among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. It was a descriptive, cross-sectional study of 215 women attending the antenatal clinic of UPTH from July to August 2022. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, reproductive history, desirability of the current pregnancy at the time of conception, knowledge and use of contraceptive methods were collected using a pretested questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Chi-square test was used for test of associations with the level of significance set at P < 0.05. The prevalence rate of unintended pregnancy from the study was 16.28% (≈16%). The contraceptive awareness was very high (209, 97.21%), however, 101 (46.98%) participants had never used any form of contraceptives. Univariate analysis using Chi-square test showed a statistically significant association between age and unintended pregnancy (P = 0.042), level of education and unwanted pregnancy (P = 0.033) as well as parity and unintended pregnancy (P = 0.019). The prevalence of unintended pregnancy among women attending antenatal clinics was high, possibly due to low contraceptive usage. More efforts should be geared towards ensuring access to comprehensive contraceptive care and contraceptive methods, this will enhance uptake and reduce the rate of unintended pregnancy.展开更多
Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) still causes significant morbidity and mortality amongst adults and children despite all the efforts which have been put into the control of the disease. However, the prevalence of the ...Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) still causes significant morbidity and mortality amongst adults and children despite all the efforts which have been put into the control of the disease. However, the prevalence of the disease in school age children is unknown because of scarcity of TB screening surveys in Nigerian schools. The aim of this study was to evaluate the proportion of school age children treated for TB in the Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS) clinic of University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). Methods: The records of all children 6 to 18 years who were treated in the DOTS clinic from 2011 to 2014 were reviewed. Information sought included age, sex, sputum Acid Fast Bacillus (AFB) status, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) status and treatment outcome. Results: One hundred and forty children aged 6 to 18 years were treated in the University Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital DOTS clinic, representing 41.79% of childhood TB cases seen over the study period. Seventy one (50.71%) patients were males and 69 (49.29%) were females. Their mean age was 12 ± 3.86. Thirty-one (22.14%) had smear positive TB. Sputum smear positivity was commonest (54.84%) among those who were 16 years and above compared to the other age groups and this is statistically significant (x2 = 17.72, p = 0.001). Forty-one (35%) patients were HIV positive and 6 (4.29%) were positive for both HIV and AFB. Ninety (64.29%) patients recovered fully following treatment, 48 (34.29%) were referred to other DOTS centres and 2 (1.43%) died. Gender, age group, AFB and HIV status showed no relationship with treatment outcome. Conclusion: School age children 6 to 18 years made up a large proportion of childhood TB cases seen within the study period in the DOTS clinic. More than one third of them were HIV/TB co-infected. An effective School Health Services should be established in schools in Port Harcourt to curb the spread of TB and other communicable diseases within the schools.展开更多
Background: While the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) is one of the most commonly used methods of birth control especially in the developed countries, robust and current information on the pill use in developi...Background: While the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) is one of the most commonly used methods of birth control especially in the developed countries, robust and current information on the pill use in developing countries including Nigeria is at best lacking. Objectives: The study was conducted to determine the prevalence rate, efficacy and side effects of COCP at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria. Methods: It was a retrospective analysis of all clients who used the COCP between 1st January 1997 and 31st December, 2016, at the family planning clinic of UPTH Port Harcourt. Data on sociodemographic profile, side effects and source of information were extracted from the clients’ case notes coded and fed into Excel spread sheet and analysed. Results: Of the 8310 new acceptors of modern contraceptive methods in UPTH, 399 clients used the COCP, giving a prevalence rate of 4.8%. The mean age of the acceptors was 26.42 ± 4.27 years while the mean parity was 1.90 ± 0.36. Menstrual disruption was the most common complications with 78 episodes constituting 47.0% of all the complications. One unintended pregnancy occurred during the period of observation, giving a Pearl index of 0.01. Conclusion: The study showed that although COCP is very effective, readily available, safe and reliable method of fertility control, the acceptance rate is very low and the patronage rapidly declining and may therefore go into extinction as a family planning method in Port Harcourt, Southern, Nigeria.展开更多
Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Occupational exposure of health care workers and medical students increases their risk of acquiring HBV infection, an...Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Occupational exposure of health care workers and medical students increases their risk of acquiring HBV infection, and many authorities recommend vaccination. However, significant proportions of health care workers do not receive HBV immunization, and remain at increased risk to HBV infection. Objective: To determine the hepatitis B vaccination rate among Medical students at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and to determine their knowledge of HBV infection. Result: Three hundred and sixteen medical students at UPTH completed self-administered questionnaires which included questions about demographic characteristics, HBV vaccination status, knowledge of hepatitis B vaccine and reasons for not receiving the vaccine. All (100%) of the respondents had heard of hepatitis B vaccine. Two hundred and twenty two (70.2%) of them thought they were at risk of acquiring hepatitis. Two hundred and seventy (85.4%) had received at least one dose of hepatitis B vaccine while 46 (14.6%) had never received the vaccine. One hundred and ten of the respondents had received 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine, giving a vaccination rate of 34.8%. One hundred and sixteen (36.7%) had received 2 doses, while 44 (13.9%) had received one dose. There was a statistical significant relationship among marital status (p = 0.01), clinical level (p = 0.02) and hepatitis B vaccine uptake. Conclusion: The hepatitis B vaccination rate among medical students at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital is low. National and institutional legislation for adult vaccination against Hepatitis B should be promulgated for those at higher risk.展开更多
Background: The evaluation of the uterus and its tubes cannot be overemphasized in the management of infertile women. Transvaginal saline sonohysterosalpingography (SHG) is another novel method with certain advantages...Background: The evaluation of the uterus and its tubes cannot be overemphasized in the management of infertile women. Transvaginal saline sonohysterosalpingography (SHG) is another novel method with certain advantages for uterine and tubal assessment in women. Objective: To determine the accuracy of saline SHG findings by comparing it with conventional Hysterosalpingography (HSG) findings in infertile women. Result: The concordance between saline sonohysterosalpingography and hysterosalpingography for the diagnosis of submucous fibroids, uterine adhesions and tubal patency in this study was over 94%. The saline SHG had sensitivity and specificity of 93.8% and 94.1% respectively for diagnosis of uterine fibroids (submucous) and a sensitivity and specificity of 62.5% and 98.9% in the diagnosis of intrauterine adhesions. It also had a sensitivity and specificity of 98.9% and 78.6% respectively in the detection of patent fallopian tubes. Conclusion: The ability of saline SHG to diagnose uterine pathology and tubal patency was comparable to that of conventional HSG. Saline SHG has the potential to replace HSG as the first-line test for the evaluation of uterine or tubal disease in infertile women.展开更多
Background: Despite the fact that Tuberculosis (TB) is preventable, treatable and curable, it has remained a significant cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. Identifying patterns of TB and its treatment outcome...Background: Despite the fact that Tuberculosis (TB) is preventable, treatable and curable, it has remained a significant cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. Identifying patterns of TB and its treatment outcome which is the aim of this study is relevant for TB control programmes. Methodology: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study carried out over a three-month period from April-June 2019 at the directly observed treatment Short course (DOTS) clinic of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Nigeria. Relevant information on all children 0 - 18 years with tuberculosis over a four-year period from January 2015 to December 2018 was retrieved and analysed. Information retrieved included the age, sex, HIV status, method of diagnosis of tuberculosis, type of Tuberculosis and the treatment outcome of the patients. Results: There were 202 childhood (0 - 18 years) cases seen over the study period. Out of these, 109 (53.96%) were males and 93 (46.04%) females. Majority of them (40.59%) were 1 - 4 years of age. There were 194 (96.04%) new cases, 6 (2.9%) transfer and 2 (0.99%) retreatment cases. One hundred and six (80.69%) had pulmonary TB, 23 (11.39%) TB adenitis, 10 (4.95%) had TB spine, 3 (1.49%) TB abdomen and 3 (1.49%) TB meningitis. TB/HIV co-infection rate was 48.45%. One hundred and eight completed treatment, 10 (4.95%) were cured, 22 (10.89%) died, 46 (22.77%) defaulted and 16 (7.92%) were transferred out. Successful treatment outcome rate was 58.41%. Conclusion: Pulmonary TB was the commonest type of TB found and treatment success rate was just above average.展开更多
Background: Studies have suggested epidemiological transition in the mortality pattern in Nigeria from communicable to non-communicable diseases of which Diseases of the cardiovascular system (DCVS) is prime. DCVS is?...Background: Studies have suggested epidemiological transition in the mortality pattern in Nigeria from communicable to non-communicable diseases of which Diseases of the cardiovascular system (DCVS) is prime. DCVS is?thus a growing public health concern but its mortality profile is under-studied?in Port Harcourt. This study was therefore designed to review the mortality profile of DCVS in Port Harcourt. Methodology: A retrospective case controlled study of deaths ascribed to DCVS at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) between January 2012 and December 2017. The composite diseases were grouped using the ICD10 scheme and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Minitab version 16 was used for trend analysis. Results: Of the overall 1902 deaths recorded within the period, 566 (29.8%) were cardiovascular system related. Of these, 301 (53.3%) were males and 265 (46.7%) were females. The elderly of 50 - 99 years were most commonly affected (65.5% of the mortalities). Cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) accounted for 322 deaths (56.9%);various types of shock caused 116 deaths (20.5%) while?congestive cardiac failure (CCF) accounted for 114 deaths (20.1%). Pulmonary?embolism, myocardial infarction, carotid aneurysm, and hypertensive encephalopathy caused 1.8%, 0.4%, 0.2%, and 0.2% deaths respectively. Peak annual mortality of 143 (25.3%) was recorded in 2013. Although the trend of mortality was undulating, there was an overall increase in annual incidence over the years.?Conclusion: DCVS constitute the commonest systemic cause?of death in Port Harcourt. Governmental and donor agencies involved in public health policy planning and implementation should scale-up strategies for the prevention and control of DCVS in order to stem the rising tide of associated mortalities.展开更多
Dermatophytoses are the most common dermatological conditions but they are however not life threatening or debilitating hence medical care is sought usually due to aesthetic reasons and chronicity of the lesions despi...Dermatophytoses are the most common dermatological conditions but they are however not life threatening or debilitating hence medical care is sought usually due to aesthetic reasons and chronicity of the lesions despite several self-medications. The purpose of this study was to determine the distribution pattern of dermatophytes isolated in the medical microbiology laboratory of University of Port Harcourt teaching hospital (UPTH). This is a 5-year desk review of the Dermatophytes isolated in the medical microbiology laboratory of UPTH. Relevant Patients’ data were retrieved and analyzed. A total of seventy (70) dermatophytes were isolated over the five-year period as follows: Trichophyton species accounted for 55 (79%), Epidermophyton species were 8 (11%) and Microsporum species 7 (10%). The peak age range of patients from which dermatophytes were isolated was 31 - 40 years with a male to female ratio of 1:1.7. The majority of patients being 49 (70%) were referred from the dermatology outpatient clinic (DOPC) and the most frequent clinical diagnosis was Tinea corporis. Trichophyton species were the commonest cause of dermatophytoses in adult patients in Port Harcourt where the most common clinical presentation was Tinea corporis.展开更多
Background: Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is a very important tool in the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis in the new born. Bacterial meningitis is a potent cause of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal age group, ...Background: Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is a very important tool in the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis in the new born. Bacterial meningitis is a potent cause of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal age group, with a very high incidence of neurological complications. Aim: To identify the bacterial pathogens isolated from the cerebrospinal fluids of neonates at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and their sensitivity patterns. This will assist the neonatologist in the choice of empirical antibiotic treatment. Study Design: Retrospective, descriptive, cross sectional study. Place and duration of study: University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2014. Methods: Records of bacterial analysis of cerebrospinal fluid from neonates seen at the special care baby unit of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital with clinical suspicion of meningitis between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2014 were retrieved from the microbiology record book. Data on patients age, sex, appearance of Cerebrospinal fluid, cell count, microscopy/gram stain, culture and antibiotic sensitivity were retrieved from laboratory record books and entered into a Microsoft? excel spread sheet and analysed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: One hundred and thirteen neonates: 70 (61.95%) of these patients were male while 43 (38.05%) were females. Only 1 (0.89%) was positive for culture yielding a growth of Escherichia coli which was sensitive to Imipenem, moderately sensitive to Ampicillin, Gentamicin, ceftazidime, cefuroxime, ciprofloxacin and Amoxicillinclavulanic acid. It was resistant to cefotaxime. 112 (99.11%) of the neonates had presumed neonatal meningitis while only 1 (0.89%) had proven neonatal meningitis. Conclusions: There is a low yield of organisms in cerebrospinal fluid of neonates at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.展开更多
Background: The most common surgical treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids, particularly in women with fertility concerns, is open myomectomy. Given the high vascularity of the uterus, haemorrhage during the proc...Background: The most common surgical treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids, particularly in women with fertility concerns, is open myomectomy. Given the high vascularity of the uterus, haemorrhage during the procedure is a serious risk that is often mitigated with a uterine tourniquet. Aim and Objectives: To evaluate the effect of uterine artery occlusion with a tourniquet during open myomectomy on ovarian reserve using serial anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) measurements. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective longitudinal study with a quasi-experimental design and a convenient sampling technique. The study enrolled 47 women who had abdominal myomectomy between September 1, 2021, and March 31, 2022, at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Blood samples were collected before anaesthesia was administered in theatre, on day two, and three months after open abdominal myomectomy for anti-Mullerian hormone assay. The data was collected using a semi-structured proforma, entered into an Excel spreadsheet, and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 with a 95% confidence interval. Statistical significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The pre-surgery AMH mean value was 1.67 ± 1.44 ng/ml, while the values after using a uterine tourniquet at myomectomy on the second day and three months later were 1.22 ± 1.24 ng/ml and 1.59 ± 1.43 ng/ml, respectively. There was no statistically significant change in AMH levels, and there was no statistically significant relationship between blood loss and tourniquet time and AMH after open abdominal myomectomy. Conclusion: The use of a uterine tourniquet and blood loss during open myomectomy has no effect on ovarian reserve.展开更多
Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuou...Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuous surveillance and interventions. This study investigates the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV infections within the academic community of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Given the potential for transmission in university settings and the importance of early detection and intervention, this research explores the extent of these infections and evaluates the outcomes of a medical outreach program aimed at addressing them. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit 513 participants using a convenience sampling approach between the 20<sup>th</sup> and 22<sup>nd</sup> of April 2022. Participants included students and staff members who voluntarily consented to the medical outreach and study. Serological assays were utilized to identify HIV, HBV and HCV infections. The medical outreach program’s design, implementation, and outcomes were evaluated, focusing on testing uptake, counselling utilization, and linkage to care. Statistical analysis employed GraphPad Prism version 9 software. Result: The study revealed low prevalence rates of HIV (0.6%), HBV (1.2%), and HCV (0.6%) infections within the university population. Age-based analysis indicated a slightly higher prevalence in the 15 - 24 age group. Gender-wise, HBV showed a marginal difference, with 1.3% among females and 0.9% among males. The medical outreach program achieved a testing uptake of 80.8%, with 75% utilizing counselling services, and 75% of those identified with infections successfully linked to care. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of infections and the effectiveness of a medical outreach program within a university community. While low prevalence rates are encouraging, the findings emphasize the continued importance of awareness and prevention efforts. The success of the outreach program in encouraging testing, providing counselling, and facilitating care linkage underscores its potential as a model for future interventions. Further research should delve into determinants of infection prevalence and barriers to care linkage for a more comprehensive understanding and improved intervention strategies.展开更多
Background: Jadelle, a long acting reversible progesterone contraceptive, has been in use in our centre for over 10 years and has not been comprehensively evaluated. Objectives: To determine the acceptance, efficacy, ...Background: Jadelle, a long acting reversible progesterone contraceptive, has been in use in our centre for over 10 years and has not been comprehensively evaluated. Objectives: To determine the acceptance, efficacy, and safety profile associated with the use of Jadelle contraceptive implant in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching hospital, Port Harcourt. Methods: This is a 10-year retrospective study of clients who accepted and used Jadelle for contraception in the university of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Port Harcourt. The case files were retrieved and information on their socio demographic profile, source of information, side effects, failures and reason for removal were extracted using a proforma. Data were filled into a spread sheet, analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 and presented in tables of frequencies and percentages. Results: Within the period under review, March 2007 to February 2017, 569 clients used Jadelle out of the 3829 women who accepted and used modern contraceptive in the UPTH. The mean age of users was 33.7 ± 4.2, 536 (94.2%) were multipara with a mean parity of 4.5 ± 3.8 while 541 (95.1%) had secondary education and above. The major side effect was irregular vaginal bleeding 36 (60.9%) while the main reason for removal of the device was expiration of method 272 (53.9%). A pregnancy was recorded during this period giving a pearl index of 0.002. Conclusion: Jadelle is a popular and a very effective means of contraception with increasing acceptance among our clients. The safety profile is high.展开更多
Background: The high risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) is largely associated with cervical cancer with identifiable dysplastic changes on cytology. The use of cervical cancer screening strategies has largely improved...Background: The high risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) is largely associated with cervical cancer with identifiable dysplastic changes on cytology. The use of cervical cancer screening strategies has largely improved the general outcome of cervical malignancies globally. Objective: To compare cervical cytological features against human papilloma virus genotypes in non HIV positive patients presenting for cervical cancer screening in UPTH. Method: A cross sectional prospective study of 82 non HIV positive women who presented for cervical cancer screening at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching hospital. A prestructured questionnaire was used to obtain socio demographic information. Cytobrush extracts of cervical samples were subjected to cytology and human papilloma virus DNA genotyping using real-time polymerase chain reaction. The information obtained was analyzed using SSPP version 20 and results presented as frequency tables, percentages and tested for significance using student t-test and chi square with p value Results: The mean age of the women was 36.61 ± 7.75 with an age range of 22 - 58 years. The prevalence of HrHPV was 4.88%. Twenty-two of the respondent have abnormal cytological pattern. While the 4 cases of HrHPV positivity were of normal cytological pattern and occurred in respondents that were in their reproductive age, the 22 that showed abnormal cervical cytology were mainly of low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LGSIL). There was no case of high grade squamous cell intraepithelial lesion (HGSIL). Conclusion: HrHPV prevalence rate of 4.88% occurring in low socioeconomic class patients. All the cervical abnormalies were of LGSIL, hence the risk of transformation into cervical cancer is equally low. There may be no correlation between hrHPV and cervical cytology in low risk patients.展开更多
Background: Family planning has clearly been a major public health success as evidenced by substantial fertility decline and reductions in maternal mortality in countries with high contraceptive prevalence rates. Nige...Background: Family planning has clearly been a major public health success as evidenced by substantial fertility decline and reductions in maternal mortality in countries with high contraceptive prevalence rates. Nigerian governments have continued to expand the scope and improve accessibility and availability of contraceptive commodities to improve uptake, giving the numerous benefits. Objective: To determine the trends in contraceptive usage and the preferred method among clients visiting the family planning clinic of University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Nigeria. Method: It was a cross sectional study of all clients who accepted contraceptive methods at the UPTH, between 1st January 2000 and 31st December, 2015. Results: During the period, a total of 9190 clients accepted contraceptive methods, and 40,334 women were delivered in the maternity unit giving an acceptance rate of 1 in 4 deliveries or 22.8%. The acceptors of modern contraceptives increased steadily from 491 clients in 2001 to a peak in 2008 with 1477 clients and sharply declined to 381 in 2009 before increasing gradually again to 519 clients in 2015. The most commonly used method was the male condom by 3194 clients (37.9%), followed by injectables, which was accepted by 2185 clients (23.8%) while 1752 clients (19.1%) used the IUD. Implant contraceptive was used by 915 clients (9.9%), followed by oral contraceptive pills used by 547 (6.0%). Female sterilization was the least commonly used method by 302 clients (3.3%). There was no vasectomy over the 15 years period. Conclusion: Contraceptive trend in Port Harcourt has an ambivalent acceptance pattern. Although male condom and injectable contraceptives are the most commonly used method over time, the subdermal implants are increasingly becoming very popular in recent time. Female sterilization remains the least common method with no record of vasectomy.展开更多
Globally, efforts are being intensified to control and possibly eliminate malaria. Transfusion transmitted Malaria unfortunately still occurs commonly in malaria endemic countries such as Nigeria and may continue to h...Globally, efforts are being intensified to control and possibly eliminate malaria. Transfusion transmitted Malaria unfortunately still occurs commonly in malaria endemic countries such as Nigeria and may continue to hamper efforts at control of malaria because blood donors are not routinely screened for malaria before donation. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium Parasitaemia among blood donors who presented in our institution between 2012 and 2014, using light microscopy. Among the 200 donors studied, 135 (67.5%) were infected. Males (97.5%) were statistically more than females (2.5%) but infection rate was higher among the female population (100% as against 66.7% in males), with this difference being statistically significant. All donors were infected with Plasmodium falciparum with the majority of the donors having mild to moderate degrees of Parasitaemia. Women (52.5%) and children (17.5%) formed the bulk of recipients for which blood was donated. The high prevalence of Plasmodium Parasitaemia among blood donors in Port Harcourt highlights the need for more efforts to be targeted at preventing transmission of malaria via blood transfusion as this will ultimately contribute to reduction in the incidence of malaria and indeed its control/elimination in Nigeria.展开更多
The two most common techniques available for diagnosis of malaria in Nigeria are microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). However, in diagnosing asymptomatic Plasmodium parasitaemia among donors, the preferred te...The two most common techniques available for diagnosis of malaria in Nigeria are microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). However, in diagnosing asymptomatic Plasmodium parasitaemia among donors, the preferred technique should not only be timely but must not compromise diagnosis. It should be more sensitive with minimal chances of false negative results. This study was carried out to compare microscopy and RDTs as effective tools for diagnosis of Plasmodium parasitaemia among blood donors in Port Harcourt. There were 200 donors involved in the study among which 135 (67.5%) tested positive and 65 (32.5%) tested negative on microscopy whereas 30 (15.0%) tested positive and 170 (85.0%) tested negative to RDT with a statistically significant difference between both techniques. Data were analysed using the statistical package epi-info version 7.02. We therefore recommend that microscopy using giemsa-stained blood films remain the method of choice for diagnosis of Plasmodium parasitaemia among blood donors to prevent the spread of transfusion malaria.展开更多
<strong>Background:</strong> Client satisfaction is considered as one of the desired outcomes of health care service delivery and it is directly related to the utilization of any health services. The famil...<strong>Background:</strong> Client satisfaction is considered as one of the desired outcomes of health care service delivery and it is directly related to the utilization of any health services. The family planning clinic remains one of the important health care delivery outlets where client satisfaction guarantees continuation of usage, hence this study. <strong>Objective: </strong>The objective of this study is to assess the determinants of client satisfaction with the family planning (FP) services provided in Port Harcourt. <strong>Materials and methods: </strong>This was a descriptive prospective cross-sectional study conducted between 18th of June 2018 and 18th of July 2018. The target population is women of reproductive age group (15 - 49) who visited 11 randomly selected family planning health facilities in Port Harcourt during the study period. A set of exit interviewer-administered questionnaire (pretested for reliability and validity) was used for data collection from a sample size of 195 respondents;and analyzed using SPSS 22.0. Standard deviation was used for continuous variable while categorical variables were presented in simple percentages and frequencies. The P value was set at <0.05 and confidence interval was 95%. <strong>Results: </strong>Age range 30 - 39 years constituted the largest proportion of 51.3%. A large proportion of the women (87.2%) expressed satisfaction with FP services provided. All respondents said the facilities were easily accessible, clean and were treated respectfully. However, only about half of the clients (51.3%) received their chosen contraceptive product after 1 hour. <strong>Conclusion: </strong>A huge proportion of family planning clients expressed satisfaction with family planning service delivery in Port Harcourt;not minding the longer waiting time. Implication of this is continued use and by implication improved contraceptive prevalence.展开更多
Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) are significant global public health burdens associated with liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and are responsible for over a million deaths yearly. Prisons and other confined facil...Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) are significant global public health burdens associated with liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and are responsible for over a million deaths yearly. Prisons and other confined facilities offer opportunities for the acquisition and transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis B and C during and after imprisonment. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C as well as their associated risk factors among inmates in the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre. A cross-sectional study was conducted among inmates incarcerated in the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre from July to December 2022, and 200 consenting subjects completed a structured questionnaire in addition to screening for the presence of HBsAg and anti-HCV antibodies. Data generated from this study was represented as frequency and percentages, and inferential statistics were carried out using chi-square with the aid of GraphPad Prism Software Version 9. Statistical significance was defined as a p-value of less than 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval. The seroprevalence of HBV was 4% while 3.5% was recorded for HCV with no cases of co-infections reported. HBV seroprevalence was significantly associated with blood oath and a history of surgery (p p < 0.05). The findings from the current study highlight a relatively lower prevalence of HBV and HCV amongst inmates in Port Harcourt in comparison to studies in Nigeria. These infections can be further controlled by multifaceted approaches by the prison personnel, administration, and Government by employing combative measures such as regular screening, easy access to therapy, awareness, and vaccination programs for HBV are crucial to prevent the transmission of these diseases.展开更多
Background: Circumcision is the removal of the fore skin of the penis. It is one of the commonest operations performed worldwide. Meatal stenosis is an uncommon long-term complication of circumcision that can lead to ...Background: Circumcision is the removal of the fore skin of the penis. It is one of the commonest operations performed worldwide. Meatal stenosis is an uncommon long-term complication of circumcision that can lead to problems voiding. Aim: To identify the clinical presentations and management of meatal stenosis in Port Harcourt. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients who presented with features of meatal stenosis between January 2012 and December 2021. The patients’ history, physical examination findings, investigations and treatment received were analysed. Results: A total of 52 patients with features of meatal stenosis were recruited for the study. The number of patients less than a year old, between a year and 5 years, between 6 and 10 years and greater than 11 years were 8, 12, 28 and 4 respectively. Only 8 patients presented within 6 months of onset of symptoms. The most common symptom was poor urine stream, followed by straining. Meatotomy was the most commonly performed procedure for meatal stenosis 24 (46.15%). The patients were followed up for at least 6 months. Six patients had recurrence after treatment of meatal stenosis. Three patients each had a recurrence following dilatation and meatotomy. No patient had recurrence after meatoplasty. Conclusion: Meatal stenosis is an uncommon complication post circumcision. Patients usually present late to the hospital in our study. Meatoplasty had the best outcome. After treatment of meatal stenosis patients should be followed up for 6 months.展开更多
Background: The burden of COVID-19 and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are some of the major and persistent global health challenges of the twenty-first century. HIV and COVID-19 are expected to overlap in high HIV...Background: The burden of COVID-19 and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are some of the major and persistent global health challenges of the twenty-first century. HIV and COVID-19 are expected to overlap in high HIV-burden countries, posing several public health challenges as a result. Prisons are overcrowded, have limited space for social distancing and have inadequate ventilation systems, making it difficult to contain the spread of COVID-19 in addition to the high-risk behaviours of inmates which contribute to the spread of HIV within these facilities. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 among inmates in a prison facility with a relatively high HIV burden in Port Harcourt, Nigeria;investigating potential risk factors and co-infection with HIV. Methodology: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design sampling 200 inmates from the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre from July to December 2022. A well-structured questionnaire was administered via interviews in addition to screening for HIV-1/2 antibodies as well as COVID-19 antigens using rapid diagnostic test kits. Descriptive statistics and chi-square were carried out on the GraphPad Prism 9 software with statistical significance defined as a p-value of less than 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval. Result: The prevalence of HIV from the current study was 6.5%, COVID-19 prevalence was reported to be 12.5% while HIV/COVID-19 co-infection was 1.5% The duration of incarceration, face mask use, frequent visitations and vaccination against COVID-19 were found to be significantly associated with the prevalence of COVID-19 in the studied population (p Conclusion: The current study reports a relatively high prevalence of HIV and COVID-19 among the inmates in the study area. It becomes expedient for the administrators of the correctional facility to properly screen new inmates for COVID-19, quarantine and manage cases, as well as provide them with personal protective equipment such as face masks. In-person visitation should be balanced with measures to prevent the spread of the infection, and mass vaccination campaigns should be promoted. Improving access to HIV screening and therapy for all prisoners should be prioritised to identify and manage the incidence of HIV early, reducing the risk of transmission, mitigating comorbidities and improving health outcomes.展开更多
文摘An unintended pregnancy is a pregnancy that is either mistimed or unplanned. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of unintended pregnancy as well as to document the determinant factors among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. It was a descriptive, cross-sectional study of 215 women attending the antenatal clinic of UPTH from July to August 2022. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, reproductive history, desirability of the current pregnancy at the time of conception, knowledge and use of contraceptive methods were collected using a pretested questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Chi-square test was used for test of associations with the level of significance set at P < 0.05. The prevalence rate of unintended pregnancy from the study was 16.28% (≈16%). The contraceptive awareness was very high (209, 97.21%), however, 101 (46.98%) participants had never used any form of contraceptives. Univariate analysis using Chi-square test showed a statistically significant association between age and unintended pregnancy (P = 0.042), level of education and unwanted pregnancy (P = 0.033) as well as parity and unintended pregnancy (P = 0.019). The prevalence of unintended pregnancy among women attending antenatal clinics was high, possibly due to low contraceptive usage. More efforts should be geared towards ensuring access to comprehensive contraceptive care and contraceptive methods, this will enhance uptake and reduce the rate of unintended pregnancy.
文摘Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) still causes significant morbidity and mortality amongst adults and children despite all the efforts which have been put into the control of the disease. However, the prevalence of the disease in school age children is unknown because of scarcity of TB screening surveys in Nigerian schools. The aim of this study was to evaluate the proportion of school age children treated for TB in the Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS) clinic of University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). Methods: The records of all children 6 to 18 years who were treated in the DOTS clinic from 2011 to 2014 were reviewed. Information sought included age, sex, sputum Acid Fast Bacillus (AFB) status, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) status and treatment outcome. Results: One hundred and forty children aged 6 to 18 years were treated in the University Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital DOTS clinic, representing 41.79% of childhood TB cases seen over the study period. Seventy one (50.71%) patients were males and 69 (49.29%) were females. Their mean age was 12 ± 3.86. Thirty-one (22.14%) had smear positive TB. Sputum smear positivity was commonest (54.84%) among those who were 16 years and above compared to the other age groups and this is statistically significant (x2 = 17.72, p = 0.001). Forty-one (35%) patients were HIV positive and 6 (4.29%) were positive for both HIV and AFB. Ninety (64.29%) patients recovered fully following treatment, 48 (34.29%) were referred to other DOTS centres and 2 (1.43%) died. Gender, age group, AFB and HIV status showed no relationship with treatment outcome. Conclusion: School age children 6 to 18 years made up a large proportion of childhood TB cases seen within the study period in the DOTS clinic. More than one third of them were HIV/TB co-infected. An effective School Health Services should be established in schools in Port Harcourt to curb the spread of TB and other communicable diseases within the schools.
文摘Background: While the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) is one of the most commonly used methods of birth control especially in the developed countries, robust and current information on the pill use in developing countries including Nigeria is at best lacking. Objectives: The study was conducted to determine the prevalence rate, efficacy and side effects of COCP at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria. Methods: It was a retrospective analysis of all clients who used the COCP between 1st January 1997 and 31st December, 2016, at the family planning clinic of UPTH Port Harcourt. Data on sociodemographic profile, side effects and source of information were extracted from the clients’ case notes coded and fed into Excel spread sheet and analysed. Results: Of the 8310 new acceptors of modern contraceptive methods in UPTH, 399 clients used the COCP, giving a prevalence rate of 4.8%. The mean age of the acceptors was 26.42 ± 4.27 years while the mean parity was 1.90 ± 0.36. Menstrual disruption was the most common complications with 78 episodes constituting 47.0% of all the complications. One unintended pregnancy occurred during the period of observation, giving a Pearl index of 0.01. Conclusion: The study showed that although COCP is very effective, readily available, safe and reliable method of fertility control, the acceptance rate is very low and the patronage rapidly declining and may therefore go into extinction as a family planning method in Port Harcourt, Southern, Nigeria.
文摘Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Occupational exposure of health care workers and medical students increases their risk of acquiring HBV infection, and many authorities recommend vaccination. However, significant proportions of health care workers do not receive HBV immunization, and remain at increased risk to HBV infection. Objective: To determine the hepatitis B vaccination rate among Medical students at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and to determine their knowledge of HBV infection. Result: Three hundred and sixteen medical students at UPTH completed self-administered questionnaires which included questions about demographic characteristics, HBV vaccination status, knowledge of hepatitis B vaccine and reasons for not receiving the vaccine. All (100%) of the respondents had heard of hepatitis B vaccine. Two hundred and twenty two (70.2%) of them thought they were at risk of acquiring hepatitis. Two hundred and seventy (85.4%) had received at least one dose of hepatitis B vaccine while 46 (14.6%) had never received the vaccine. One hundred and ten of the respondents had received 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine, giving a vaccination rate of 34.8%. One hundred and sixteen (36.7%) had received 2 doses, while 44 (13.9%) had received one dose. There was a statistical significant relationship among marital status (p = 0.01), clinical level (p = 0.02) and hepatitis B vaccine uptake. Conclusion: The hepatitis B vaccination rate among medical students at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital is low. National and institutional legislation for adult vaccination against Hepatitis B should be promulgated for those at higher risk.
文摘Background: The evaluation of the uterus and its tubes cannot be overemphasized in the management of infertile women. Transvaginal saline sonohysterosalpingography (SHG) is another novel method with certain advantages for uterine and tubal assessment in women. Objective: To determine the accuracy of saline SHG findings by comparing it with conventional Hysterosalpingography (HSG) findings in infertile women. Result: The concordance between saline sonohysterosalpingography and hysterosalpingography for the diagnosis of submucous fibroids, uterine adhesions and tubal patency in this study was over 94%. The saline SHG had sensitivity and specificity of 93.8% and 94.1% respectively for diagnosis of uterine fibroids (submucous) and a sensitivity and specificity of 62.5% and 98.9% in the diagnosis of intrauterine adhesions. It also had a sensitivity and specificity of 98.9% and 78.6% respectively in the detection of patent fallopian tubes. Conclusion: The ability of saline SHG to diagnose uterine pathology and tubal patency was comparable to that of conventional HSG. Saline SHG has the potential to replace HSG as the first-line test for the evaluation of uterine or tubal disease in infertile women.
文摘Background: Despite the fact that Tuberculosis (TB) is preventable, treatable and curable, it has remained a significant cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. Identifying patterns of TB and its treatment outcome which is the aim of this study is relevant for TB control programmes. Methodology: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study carried out over a three-month period from April-June 2019 at the directly observed treatment Short course (DOTS) clinic of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Nigeria. Relevant information on all children 0 - 18 years with tuberculosis over a four-year period from January 2015 to December 2018 was retrieved and analysed. Information retrieved included the age, sex, HIV status, method of diagnosis of tuberculosis, type of Tuberculosis and the treatment outcome of the patients. Results: There were 202 childhood (0 - 18 years) cases seen over the study period. Out of these, 109 (53.96%) were males and 93 (46.04%) females. Majority of them (40.59%) were 1 - 4 years of age. There were 194 (96.04%) new cases, 6 (2.9%) transfer and 2 (0.99%) retreatment cases. One hundred and six (80.69%) had pulmonary TB, 23 (11.39%) TB adenitis, 10 (4.95%) had TB spine, 3 (1.49%) TB abdomen and 3 (1.49%) TB meningitis. TB/HIV co-infection rate was 48.45%. One hundred and eight completed treatment, 10 (4.95%) were cured, 22 (10.89%) died, 46 (22.77%) defaulted and 16 (7.92%) were transferred out. Successful treatment outcome rate was 58.41%. Conclusion: Pulmonary TB was the commonest type of TB found and treatment success rate was just above average.
文摘Background: Studies have suggested epidemiological transition in the mortality pattern in Nigeria from communicable to non-communicable diseases of which Diseases of the cardiovascular system (DCVS) is prime. DCVS is?thus a growing public health concern but its mortality profile is under-studied?in Port Harcourt. This study was therefore designed to review the mortality profile of DCVS in Port Harcourt. Methodology: A retrospective case controlled study of deaths ascribed to DCVS at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) between January 2012 and December 2017. The composite diseases were grouped using the ICD10 scheme and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Minitab version 16 was used for trend analysis. Results: Of the overall 1902 deaths recorded within the period, 566 (29.8%) were cardiovascular system related. Of these, 301 (53.3%) were males and 265 (46.7%) were females. The elderly of 50 - 99 years were most commonly affected (65.5% of the mortalities). Cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) accounted for 322 deaths (56.9%);various types of shock caused 116 deaths (20.5%) while?congestive cardiac failure (CCF) accounted for 114 deaths (20.1%). Pulmonary?embolism, myocardial infarction, carotid aneurysm, and hypertensive encephalopathy caused 1.8%, 0.4%, 0.2%, and 0.2% deaths respectively. Peak annual mortality of 143 (25.3%) was recorded in 2013. Although the trend of mortality was undulating, there was an overall increase in annual incidence over the years.?Conclusion: DCVS constitute the commonest systemic cause?of death in Port Harcourt. Governmental and donor agencies involved in public health policy planning and implementation should scale-up strategies for the prevention and control of DCVS in order to stem the rising tide of associated mortalities.
文摘Dermatophytoses are the most common dermatological conditions but they are however not life threatening or debilitating hence medical care is sought usually due to aesthetic reasons and chronicity of the lesions despite several self-medications. The purpose of this study was to determine the distribution pattern of dermatophytes isolated in the medical microbiology laboratory of University of Port Harcourt teaching hospital (UPTH). This is a 5-year desk review of the Dermatophytes isolated in the medical microbiology laboratory of UPTH. Relevant Patients’ data were retrieved and analyzed. A total of seventy (70) dermatophytes were isolated over the five-year period as follows: Trichophyton species accounted for 55 (79%), Epidermophyton species were 8 (11%) and Microsporum species 7 (10%). The peak age range of patients from which dermatophytes were isolated was 31 - 40 years with a male to female ratio of 1:1.7. The majority of patients being 49 (70%) were referred from the dermatology outpatient clinic (DOPC) and the most frequent clinical diagnosis was Tinea corporis. Trichophyton species were the commonest cause of dermatophytoses in adult patients in Port Harcourt where the most common clinical presentation was Tinea corporis.
文摘Background: Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is a very important tool in the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis in the new born. Bacterial meningitis is a potent cause of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal age group, with a very high incidence of neurological complications. Aim: To identify the bacterial pathogens isolated from the cerebrospinal fluids of neonates at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and their sensitivity patterns. This will assist the neonatologist in the choice of empirical antibiotic treatment. Study Design: Retrospective, descriptive, cross sectional study. Place and duration of study: University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2014. Methods: Records of bacterial analysis of cerebrospinal fluid from neonates seen at the special care baby unit of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital with clinical suspicion of meningitis between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2014 were retrieved from the microbiology record book. Data on patients age, sex, appearance of Cerebrospinal fluid, cell count, microscopy/gram stain, culture and antibiotic sensitivity were retrieved from laboratory record books and entered into a Microsoft? excel spread sheet and analysed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: One hundred and thirteen neonates: 70 (61.95%) of these patients were male while 43 (38.05%) were females. Only 1 (0.89%) was positive for culture yielding a growth of Escherichia coli which was sensitive to Imipenem, moderately sensitive to Ampicillin, Gentamicin, ceftazidime, cefuroxime, ciprofloxacin and Amoxicillinclavulanic acid. It was resistant to cefotaxime. 112 (99.11%) of the neonates had presumed neonatal meningitis while only 1 (0.89%) had proven neonatal meningitis. Conclusions: There is a low yield of organisms in cerebrospinal fluid of neonates at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.
文摘Background: The most common surgical treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids, particularly in women with fertility concerns, is open myomectomy. Given the high vascularity of the uterus, haemorrhage during the procedure is a serious risk that is often mitigated with a uterine tourniquet. Aim and Objectives: To evaluate the effect of uterine artery occlusion with a tourniquet during open myomectomy on ovarian reserve using serial anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) measurements. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective longitudinal study with a quasi-experimental design and a convenient sampling technique. The study enrolled 47 women who had abdominal myomectomy between September 1, 2021, and March 31, 2022, at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Blood samples were collected before anaesthesia was administered in theatre, on day two, and three months after open abdominal myomectomy for anti-Mullerian hormone assay. The data was collected using a semi-structured proforma, entered into an Excel spreadsheet, and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 with a 95% confidence interval. Statistical significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The pre-surgery AMH mean value was 1.67 ± 1.44 ng/ml, while the values after using a uterine tourniquet at myomectomy on the second day and three months later were 1.22 ± 1.24 ng/ml and 1.59 ± 1.43 ng/ml, respectively. There was no statistically significant change in AMH levels, and there was no statistically significant relationship between blood loss and tourniquet time and AMH after open abdominal myomectomy. Conclusion: The use of a uterine tourniquet and blood loss during open myomectomy has no effect on ovarian reserve.
文摘Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuous surveillance and interventions. This study investigates the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV infections within the academic community of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Given the potential for transmission in university settings and the importance of early detection and intervention, this research explores the extent of these infections and evaluates the outcomes of a medical outreach program aimed at addressing them. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit 513 participants using a convenience sampling approach between the 20<sup>th</sup> and 22<sup>nd</sup> of April 2022. Participants included students and staff members who voluntarily consented to the medical outreach and study. Serological assays were utilized to identify HIV, HBV and HCV infections. The medical outreach program’s design, implementation, and outcomes were evaluated, focusing on testing uptake, counselling utilization, and linkage to care. Statistical analysis employed GraphPad Prism version 9 software. Result: The study revealed low prevalence rates of HIV (0.6%), HBV (1.2%), and HCV (0.6%) infections within the university population. Age-based analysis indicated a slightly higher prevalence in the 15 - 24 age group. Gender-wise, HBV showed a marginal difference, with 1.3% among females and 0.9% among males. The medical outreach program achieved a testing uptake of 80.8%, with 75% utilizing counselling services, and 75% of those identified with infections successfully linked to care. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of infections and the effectiveness of a medical outreach program within a university community. While low prevalence rates are encouraging, the findings emphasize the continued importance of awareness and prevention efforts. The success of the outreach program in encouraging testing, providing counselling, and facilitating care linkage underscores its potential as a model for future interventions. Further research should delve into determinants of infection prevalence and barriers to care linkage for a more comprehensive understanding and improved intervention strategies.
文摘Background: Jadelle, a long acting reversible progesterone contraceptive, has been in use in our centre for over 10 years and has not been comprehensively evaluated. Objectives: To determine the acceptance, efficacy, and safety profile associated with the use of Jadelle contraceptive implant in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching hospital, Port Harcourt. Methods: This is a 10-year retrospective study of clients who accepted and used Jadelle for contraception in the university of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Port Harcourt. The case files were retrieved and information on their socio demographic profile, source of information, side effects, failures and reason for removal were extracted using a proforma. Data were filled into a spread sheet, analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 and presented in tables of frequencies and percentages. Results: Within the period under review, March 2007 to February 2017, 569 clients used Jadelle out of the 3829 women who accepted and used modern contraceptive in the UPTH. The mean age of users was 33.7 ± 4.2, 536 (94.2%) were multipara with a mean parity of 4.5 ± 3.8 while 541 (95.1%) had secondary education and above. The major side effect was irregular vaginal bleeding 36 (60.9%) while the main reason for removal of the device was expiration of method 272 (53.9%). A pregnancy was recorded during this period giving a pearl index of 0.002. Conclusion: Jadelle is a popular and a very effective means of contraception with increasing acceptance among our clients. The safety profile is high.
文摘Background: The high risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) is largely associated with cervical cancer with identifiable dysplastic changes on cytology. The use of cervical cancer screening strategies has largely improved the general outcome of cervical malignancies globally. Objective: To compare cervical cytological features against human papilloma virus genotypes in non HIV positive patients presenting for cervical cancer screening in UPTH. Method: A cross sectional prospective study of 82 non HIV positive women who presented for cervical cancer screening at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching hospital. A prestructured questionnaire was used to obtain socio demographic information. Cytobrush extracts of cervical samples were subjected to cytology and human papilloma virus DNA genotyping using real-time polymerase chain reaction. The information obtained was analyzed using SSPP version 20 and results presented as frequency tables, percentages and tested for significance using student t-test and chi square with p value Results: The mean age of the women was 36.61 ± 7.75 with an age range of 22 - 58 years. The prevalence of HrHPV was 4.88%. Twenty-two of the respondent have abnormal cytological pattern. While the 4 cases of HrHPV positivity were of normal cytological pattern and occurred in respondents that were in their reproductive age, the 22 that showed abnormal cervical cytology were mainly of low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LGSIL). There was no case of high grade squamous cell intraepithelial lesion (HGSIL). Conclusion: HrHPV prevalence rate of 4.88% occurring in low socioeconomic class patients. All the cervical abnormalies were of LGSIL, hence the risk of transformation into cervical cancer is equally low. There may be no correlation between hrHPV and cervical cytology in low risk patients.
文摘Background: Family planning has clearly been a major public health success as evidenced by substantial fertility decline and reductions in maternal mortality in countries with high contraceptive prevalence rates. Nigerian governments have continued to expand the scope and improve accessibility and availability of contraceptive commodities to improve uptake, giving the numerous benefits. Objective: To determine the trends in contraceptive usage and the preferred method among clients visiting the family planning clinic of University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Nigeria. Method: It was a cross sectional study of all clients who accepted contraceptive methods at the UPTH, between 1st January 2000 and 31st December, 2015. Results: During the period, a total of 9190 clients accepted contraceptive methods, and 40,334 women were delivered in the maternity unit giving an acceptance rate of 1 in 4 deliveries or 22.8%. The acceptors of modern contraceptives increased steadily from 491 clients in 2001 to a peak in 2008 with 1477 clients and sharply declined to 381 in 2009 before increasing gradually again to 519 clients in 2015. The most commonly used method was the male condom by 3194 clients (37.9%), followed by injectables, which was accepted by 2185 clients (23.8%) while 1752 clients (19.1%) used the IUD. Implant contraceptive was used by 915 clients (9.9%), followed by oral contraceptive pills used by 547 (6.0%). Female sterilization was the least commonly used method by 302 clients (3.3%). There was no vasectomy over the 15 years period. Conclusion: Contraceptive trend in Port Harcourt has an ambivalent acceptance pattern. Although male condom and injectable contraceptives are the most commonly used method over time, the subdermal implants are increasingly becoming very popular in recent time. Female sterilization remains the least common method with no record of vasectomy.
文摘Globally, efforts are being intensified to control and possibly eliminate malaria. Transfusion transmitted Malaria unfortunately still occurs commonly in malaria endemic countries such as Nigeria and may continue to hamper efforts at control of malaria because blood donors are not routinely screened for malaria before donation. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium Parasitaemia among blood donors who presented in our institution between 2012 and 2014, using light microscopy. Among the 200 donors studied, 135 (67.5%) were infected. Males (97.5%) were statistically more than females (2.5%) but infection rate was higher among the female population (100% as against 66.7% in males), with this difference being statistically significant. All donors were infected with Plasmodium falciparum with the majority of the donors having mild to moderate degrees of Parasitaemia. Women (52.5%) and children (17.5%) formed the bulk of recipients for which blood was donated. The high prevalence of Plasmodium Parasitaemia among blood donors in Port Harcourt highlights the need for more efforts to be targeted at preventing transmission of malaria via blood transfusion as this will ultimately contribute to reduction in the incidence of malaria and indeed its control/elimination in Nigeria.
文摘The two most common techniques available for diagnosis of malaria in Nigeria are microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). However, in diagnosing asymptomatic Plasmodium parasitaemia among donors, the preferred technique should not only be timely but must not compromise diagnosis. It should be more sensitive with minimal chances of false negative results. This study was carried out to compare microscopy and RDTs as effective tools for diagnosis of Plasmodium parasitaemia among blood donors in Port Harcourt. There were 200 donors involved in the study among which 135 (67.5%) tested positive and 65 (32.5%) tested negative on microscopy whereas 30 (15.0%) tested positive and 170 (85.0%) tested negative to RDT with a statistically significant difference between both techniques. Data were analysed using the statistical package epi-info version 7.02. We therefore recommend that microscopy using giemsa-stained blood films remain the method of choice for diagnosis of Plasmodium parasitaemia among blood donors to prevent the spread of transfusion malaria.
文摘<strong>Background:</strong> Client satisfaction is considered as one of the desired outcomes of health care service delivery and it is directly related to the utilization of any health services. The family planning clinic remains one of the important health care delivery outlets where client satisfaction guarantees continuation of usage, hence this study. <strong>Objective: </strong>The objective of this study is to assess the determinants of client satisfaction with the family planning (FP) services provided in Port Harcourt. <strong>Materials and methods: </strong>This was a descriptive prospective cross-sectional study conducted between 18th of June 2018 and 18th of July 2018. The target population is women of reproductive age group (15 - 49) who visited 11 randomly selected family planning health facilities in Port Harcourt during the study period. A set of exit interviewer-administered questionnaire (pretested for reliability and validity) was used for data collection from a sample size of 195 respondents;and analyzed using SPSS 22.0. Standard deviation was used for continuous variable while categorical variables were presented in simple percentages and frequencies. The P value was set at <0.05 and confidence interval was 95%. <strong>Results: </strong>Age range 30 - 39 years constituted the largest proportion of 51.3%. A large proportion of the women (87.2%) expressed satisfaction with FP services provided. All respondents said the facilities were easily accessible, clean and were treated respectfully. However, only about half of the clients (51.3%) received their chosen contraceptive product after 1 hour. <strong>Conclusion: </strong>A huge proportion of family planning clients expressed satisfaction with family planning service delivery in Port Harcourt;not minding the longer waiting time. Implication of this is continued use and by implication improved contraceptive prevalence.
文摘Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) are significant global public health burdens associated with liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and are responsible for over a million deaths yearly. Prisons and other confined facilities offer opportunities for the acquisition and transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis B and C during and after imprisonment. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C as well as their associated risk factors among inmates in the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre. A cross-sectional study was conducted among inmates incarcerated in the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre from July to December 2022, and 200 consenting subjects completed a structured questionnaire in addition to screening for the presence of HBsAg and anti-HCV antibodies. Data generated from this study was represented as frequency and percentages, and inferential statistics were carried out using chi-square with the aid of GraphPad Prism Software Version 9. Statistical significance was defined as a p-value of less than 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval. The seroprevalence of HBV was 4% while 3.5% was recorded for HCV with no cases of co-infections reported. HBV seroprevalence was significantly associated with blood oath and a history of surgery (p p < 0.05). The findings from the current study highlight a relatively lower prevalence of HBV and HCV amongst inmates in Port Harcourt in comparison to studies in Nigeria. These infections can be further controlled by multifaceted approaches by the prison personnel, administration, and Government by employing combative measures such as regular screening, easy access to therapy, awareness, and vaccination programs for HBV are crucial to prevent the transmission of these diseases.
文摘Background: Circumcision is the removal of the fore skin of the penis. It is one of the commonest operations performed worldwide. Meatal stenosis is an uncommon long-term complication of circumcision that can lead to problems voiding. Aim: To identify the clinical presentations and management of meatal stenosis in Port Harcourt. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients who presented with features of meatal stenosis between January 2012 and December 2021. The patients’ history, physical examination findings, investigations and treatment received were analysed. Results: A total of 52 patients with features of meatal stenosis were recruited for the study. The number of patients less than a year old, between a year and 5 years, between 6 and 10 years and greater than 11 years were 8, 12, 28 and 4 respectively. Only 8 patients presented within 6 months of onset of symptoms. The most common symptom was poor urine stream, followed by straining. Meatotomy was the most commonly performed procedure for meatal stenosis 24 (46.15%). The patients were followed up for at least 6 months. Six patients had recurrence after treatment of meatal stenosis. Three patients each had a recurrence following dilatation and meatotomy. No patient had recurrence after meatoplasty. Conclusion: Meatal stenosis is an uncommon complication post circumcision. Patients usually present late to the hospital in our study. Meatoplasty had the best outcome. After treatment of meatal stenosis patients should be followed up for 6 months.
文摘Background: The burden of COVID-19 and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are some of the major and persistent global health challenges of the twenty-first century. HIV and COVID-19 are expected to overlap in high HIV-burden countries, posing several public health challenges as a result. Prisons are overcrowded, have limited space for social distancing and have inadequate ventilation systems, making it difficult to contain the spread of COVID-19 in addition to the high-risk behaviours of inmates which contribute to the spread of HIV within these facilities. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 among inmates in a prison facility with a relatively high HIV burden in Port Harcourt, Nigeria;investigating potential risk factors and co-infection with HIV. Methodology: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design sampling 200 inmates from the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre from July to December 2022. A well-structured questionnaire was administered via interviews in addition to screening for HIV-1/2 antibodies as well as COVID-19 antigens using rapid diagnostic test kits. Descriptive statistics and chi-square were carried out on the GraphPad Prism 9 software with statistical significance defined as a p-value of less than 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval. Result: The prevalence of HIV from the current study was 6.5%, COVID-19 prevalence was reported to be 12.5% while HIV/COVID-19 co-infection was 1.5% The duration of incarceration, face mask use, frequent visitations and vaccination against COVID-19 were found to be significantly associated with the prevalence of COVID-19 in the studied population (p Conclusion: The current study reports a relatively high prevalence of HIV and COVID-19 among the inmates in the study area. It becomes expedient for the administrators of the correctional facility to properly screen new inmates for COVID-19, quarantine and manage cases, as well as provide them with personal protective equipment such as face masks. In-person visitation should be balanced with measures to prevent the spread of the infection, and mass vaccination campaigns should be promoted. Improving access to HIV screening and therapy for all prisoners should be prioritised to identify and manage the incidence of HIV early, reducing the risk of transmission, mitigating comorbidities and improving health outcomes.
