Al-Sihah: The Public Health Science Journal

Anemia During Pregnancy: A Study Between Booking Visit and Delivery from South Africa

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In South Africa (SA), the highest prevalence of anemia in pregnancy of 43% is reported in the KwaZulu-Natal province at initial Antenatal Care (ANC) visit. To prevent anemia during pregnancy, iron supplementation is provided during pregnancy. There is no study undertaken to compare anemia at booking ANC visit with the rate at delivery. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of anemia at ANC booking and delivery, and identify risk factors. Facility based retrospective cohort study was conducted among pregnant women who delivered at the health facility. Data were coded, captured and analysed using SPSS software. Logistic regression was performed to determine predictors for anemia. Results showed significantly higher prevalence of anemia (36.5%) at initiation of ANC compared to 18.6% at delivery (p<0.05). The mean Hb increased from 11.4 g/dL at ANC initiation to 12.3 g/dL at delivery. Logistic regression showed that women without syphilis (OR=0.14, p=0.014) and those initiating ANC early (OR=0.35, p=0.018) had lower odds of anemia. HIV-positive women (OR=4.2, p=0.022) and those anaemic at booking (OR=10.84, p<0.001) had higher odds of anemia at delivery. Pregnant women aged 20–24 years were less likely (OR=0.34, p=0.041) to have increased Hb, while those without syphilis at ANC booking had lower odds (OR=0.46, p=0.04) of decreased Hb. ANC initiation, screening and treatment of HIV and syphilis infection must be strengthened.

Depression Symptoms Among Early Childhood Development Practitioners in South Africa

Mercedes Zanele Kunene, Kebogile Mokwena, Mathildah Mokgatle — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The increasing prevalence of depression is a growing global concern, including among early childhood development practitioners. However, there is a dearth of studies on the mental health of these practitioners in South Africa. The objective of this study was to screen for the prevalence and severity of depression symptoms among practitioners. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and a socio-demographic questionnaire were used to collect data from 402 practitioners. Descriptive analysis of the data was performed using Stata 14. The Pearson chi-square test and logistic regression model were applied to explore associations between socio-demographic variables and PHQ-9 scores and to identify factors significantly associated with depression symptoms. Nearly half of the participants (47.26%) tested positive for depression symptoms across various severity categories, including mild (27.11%), moderate (15.92%), moderately severe (3.48%), and severe (0.75%). Key variables such as the location of the center, the number of children living with the practitioner, substance use, the number of practitioners in the center, the number of children per class, and the total number of children in the center were significantly associated with depression symptoms (p ≤ 0.05). The study recommends the development and implementation of tailored interventions to address the mental health needs of practitioners, thereby improving both the academic and non-academic outcomes of learners.

Improving Inpatient Unit Performance Through the Malcolm Baldrige Framework: A Study in a Hospital in Gresik, Indonesia

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Numerous studies have explored various aspects of performance in healthcare services, including patient satisfaction, staff well-being, and resource capacity. However, research addressing these gaps using the Malcolm Baldrige Performance Criteria framework remains limited. This study aims to evaluate and enhance the inpatient service performance at Mabarrot Gresik Islamic Hospital using the Malcolm Baldrige Performance Criteria model. An analytical observational study with a cross-sectional approach was conducted to analyze the relationships and correlations among eight Malcolm Baldrige criteria: Organizational Profile, Leadership, Strategic Planning, Customer Focus, Measurement, Analysis, and Knowledge Management, Human Resources, Operational Activity Focus, and Results. Data were collected from 34 respondents, comprising medical and non-medical staff, using a validated (CVI = 0.77) and reliable (α = 0.986) questionnaire. The analysis revealed that Human Resources (r = 0.993), Results (r = 0.837), and Strategic Planning (r = 0.758) demonstrated very strong relationships with Customer Focus, indicating these areas significantly impact inpatient service performance. Furthermore, a strong correlation was found between Customer Focus and Results (r = 0.837), emphasizing the importance of prioritizing patient satisfaction to achieve better outcomes. However, the study identified a weak relationship between the Organizational Profile and Measurement, Analysis, and Knowledge Management criteria, indicating a misalignment that requires attention. The findings suggest that improving human resource performance and addressing customer needs are critical strategies for enhancing inpatient services.

Job Satisfaction Levels and Contributing Factors Among Health Professionals in Rural Public Healthcare Facilities of Limpopo Province, South Africa

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Job satisfaction reflects an employee's motivation and contentment with their work. Globally, the turnover and retention of healthcare professionals are essential for providing vital health services. However, there has been minimal research on job satisfaction among healthcare professionals in rural areas of South Africa. This study aimed to evaluate job satisfaction and its contributing factors among healthcare professionals in the rural provinces of South Africa. A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving nurses and medical doctors across four public healthcare facilities over a three-month period. Out of 84 questionnaires distributed, 83 were completed, yielding a response rate of 98.8%. Overall, 37.3% of participants expressed satisfaction with their job. The main factors contributing to dissatisfaction were a lack of resources (81%), subpar working conditions (80%), inadequate rewards for extra efforts (75%), and a high workload (73%). The findings revealed notably low job satisfaction, underscoring the need for strategic planning and effective human resource management. Enhancing job security, improving working conditions, offering fair compensation, and supporting career advancement are essential. Addressing workload management through optimized schedules, reduced turnover, skilled recruitment, and task prioritization training is also recommended.

Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus and Awareness of Its Management among Tailors in Urban India

Nasreen Begum, Saadia Fatima — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The rising diabetes prevalence in developing countries highlights a critical public health challenge linked to lifestyle changes and limited awareness of disease management. This study addresses the gap in understanding diabetes prevalence and management knowledge among sedentary occupational groups, such as tailors. This study aims to assess the prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and evaluate knowledge regarding its management among tailors in Hyderabad. This community-based cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of DM and evaluated knowledge about its management among tailors in Hyderabad, a group particularly at risk due to their sedentary work environments and limited awareness of diabetes management. Data were collected from 170 tailors aged 30–60 years across four localities in Hyderabad using a structured questionnaire and random blood glucose level checks. Results indicated that 58.8% of participants had normal glucose levels, 25.3% were pre-diabetic, and 15.9% were diabetic. Diabetes (19.4%) and hypertension (22.9%) were common, though only 37.1% adhered to regular medication. Irregular dietary habits were noted, with 61.8% skipping meals occasionally and 45% consuming outside food monthly. The mean blood glucose level was 146.85 mg/dL (SE: 3.92 mg/dL), with 97.1% consuming tea or coffee daily and 48.2% eating street food monthly. This study highlighted that Tailors, who tend to have sedentary work environments, are at particular risk due to a lack of awareness about diabetes, its management, proper nutrition normal Blood glucose, values and complications of DM.

Geographical Disparities in Blood Pressure and Dietary Patterns: A Comparative Study of Mountainous and Coastal Communities in Gorontalo, Indonesia

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Hypertension, a leading cause of early death worldwide, affects 1.94% of the population in Gorontalo Regency, according to the local Health Department. However, limited studies have examined the relationship between hypertension prevalence and dietary patterns among mountain and coastal communities in this region. The purpose of this study was to explore differences in blood pressure and consumption patterns between people living in mountain areas and coastal areas in Gorontalo District. This research employed an analytic observational design with a cross-sectional approach. The study included 126 participants living in mountain and coastal areas of Gorontalo District, selected using a cluster random sampling technique. Data were collected using a 24-hour food recall questionnaire and a tension meter. The data were analyzed using the chi-square test. The findings revealed no significant differences in systolic blood pressure (p = 0.359, p > 0.05), diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.160, p > 0.05), or sodium consumption patterns (p = 0.324, p > 0.05) between residents of mountainous and coastal areas. However, significant differences were found in fat consumption patterns (p = 0.000, p < 0.05) and carbohydrate consumption patterns (p = 0.004, p < 0.05) between the two groups. It is recommended that residents regularly monitor their blood pressure to detect potential increases and reduce excessive salt consumption.

Sexual Violence on Campus: Student Experiences and Perceptions of Institutional Responses

Lu'lu Nafisah, Yuditha Nindya Kartika Rizqi — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sexual violence in higher education is a global issue with severe impacts on victims' health and academic performance. In Indonesia, its high prevalence is driven by peer norms, patriarchal culture, and inadequate institutional responses. However, critical gaps persist in understanding student perceptions, contributing factors, reporting barriers, and expectations for effective prevention and intervention. This study addresses these gaps by examining perceptions of sexual violence, associated risk factors and impacts, reporting barriers, and preventive expectations among university stakeholders. The research was conducted at Jenderal Soedirman University, employing a qualitative descriptive design that involved 18 informants, including students, counselors, and task force representatives. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using content analysis. The findings highlight various forms of violence, including sexual harassment, physical, psychological, and gender-based violence, committed by peers, faculty, or staff. Impacts include psychological trauma and academic disruptions. Barriers to reporting, such as stigma, fear of retaliation, and ineffective mechanisms, were commonly reported. Cultural norms, power imbalances, and insufficient supervision in non-academic activities were found to exacerbate the issue. Informants stressed the need for a shift in cultural attitudes, accessible reporting systems, and victim support services through the implementation of comprehensive prevention and intervention programs.

Contribution of Emotional, and Physical Support of Fathers in Exclusive Breastfeeding

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Exclusive breastfeeding coverage in Bogor Regency remains low, affecting infant growth and development during the first six months of life. Paternal support, as a key determinant, has been insufficiently explored. This study assessed the types of support fathers provide to breastfeeding mothers. Exclusive breastfeeding is a critical effort to support the optimal growth and development of infants during the first 6 months of life. Nevertheless, exclusive breastfeeding coverage continues to be insufficient in certain regions, including Bogor Regency. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between paternal support and the success of exclusive breastfeeding. The study employed a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach, involving 221 parent pairs selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed various forms of paternal support, including physical, emotional, and educational assistance. The data were analyzed using chi-square tests to determine the statistical associations. The results revealed that instrumental support—such as helping to change diapers and holding the baby—was not significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding practices (p > 0.05). Conversely, paternal support in the form of accompanying mothers during consultations with health workers demonstrated a significant association with exclusive breastfeeding success (p = 0.023 < 0.05) This study confirms the critical role of educative and emotional support from fathers in promoting exclusive breastfeeding success. The findings highlight the strategic role of fathers in promoting exclusive breastfeeding and support the development of family-based interventions to increase its coverage.