Ibom Medical Journal

Pattern of Haematological Indices Among Pregnant Women at Booking in a Specialist Hospital in South-South Nigeria

2026-04-14T09:41:21+00:00

Background: Pregnancy is a physiological process that induces profound changes in haematological indices of women. Variations across trimesters have been observed. This study aimed to assess the effect of pregnancy on the haematological indices of pregnant women in a specialist hospital.

Materials and Methods: A quantitative, comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted at the antenatal clinic of Central Hospital, Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria. A total of 322 participants (242 pregnant and 80 non-pregnant) who consented participated. Blood samples were collected from them and analysed. The haematological indices were compared between the pregnant and non-pregnant groups, as well as among the three trimesters.

Results: The haematocrit (31.89±3.48 vs 35.02±3.59, P=0.001), lymphocytes (30.65±7.06 vs 47.37±9.00, P=0.001) and Mix (Basophil, Eosinophils, and Monocyte) (7.32±2.85 vs 8.56±2.27, P=0.001) were significantly lower in the pregnant group. Total white blood cell count (7.16±1.81 vs 5.94±1.51, P=0.001) and Neutrophils (62.25±8.59 vs 43.60±9.81, P=0.001) increased significantly in the pregnant cohort. Comparing across the three trimesters, there was a decrease in Haematocrit as pregnancy advanced, although it was not statistically significant. There was a significant reduction in haemoglobin (11.10 ± 1.00 vs 10.53±1.12, P=0.013) and lymphocyte (33.64±8.70 vs 30.31±6.90, P=0.017) levels between the first and second trimesters, as well as between the first and third trimesters (11.10±1.00 vs 10.41±1.12, P=0.02 and 33.64±8.70 vs 29.84±6.15, P=0.008). Neutrophil levels increased significantly between the first and second trimesters (58.63±9.12 vs 63.15±8.87, P=0.008), as well as between the first and third trimesters (58.63±9.12 vs 62.24±7.46, P=0.02). The prevalence of anaemia was 22.7%.

Conclusion: Pregnancy-related haematological changes can be mistaken for pathological conditions. Healthcare providers should be aware of and identify normal physiological changes to provide accurate assessments and effective management.

Assessment of treatment-related changes in quality of life among prescholers with early childhood caries using the naija-ecohis

2026-04-14T10:02:50+00:00

Context: Early Childhood Caries (ECC), a major public health concern, significantly affects general health and the quality of life (QoL) of preschool children.

Objectives: To assess the QoL of preschoolers using the Nigerian Pidgin English version of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (NAIJA-ECOHIS) before and after treatment.

Materials and Methods: A prospective longitudinal cohort study was conducted among preschoolers aged 2-5 years presenting with ECC. Parents/caregivers completed the NAIJA-ECOHIS questionnaire at baseline, and at 2 and 4 weeks after treatment, to evaluate changes in QoL following treatment of ECC. Treatment included restorations, extractions, pulp therapy, and preventive care. Data were analysed using SPSS, comparing pre- and post-treatment scores, paired t-tests assessed changes in quality of life over time while repeated measures of Analysis of Variance assessed changes across three time points.

Results: A total of 120 preschoolers participated, with a mean age of 4.34 ± 0.80 years; females constituted 53.3%. At presentation, pain (82.5%) was the most frequently reported complaint. Mean NAIJA-ECOHIS scores decreased from 12.42±6.84 at baseline to 1.43±2.16 at two weeks and 0.79±1.24 at four weeks post-treatment. The child symptom domain and self image domain demonstrated largest and least effect sizes respectively. There were significant differences between all pre- treatments scores and four weeks’ post-treatment scores. (p < 0.001)

Conclusion: ECC had a significant negative impact on daily functioning of preschoolers and caused considerable distress to families. Dental treatment significantly improved their QoL with the child symptom domain being the most improved.

Recovery profile and discharge following day case laparoscopic gynaecological surgeries: use of sevoflurane anaesthesia vs propofol

2026-04-14T23:28:23+00:00

Context: Rapid emergence and early recovery from anaesthesia with minimal complications are desirable. Both propofol and sevoflurane meet the above needs and are established as agents of choice in laparoscopic surgeries for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. This study compared postoperative recovery and discharge profiles of sevoflurane with propofol in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynaecological surgeries under general anaesthesia.

Materials and Methods: In this prospective randomized clinical trial 60 patients, aged 18-65 years with ASA grade I and II scheduled for elective laparoscopic gynaecological surgeries under general anaesthesia were randomly allocated into two groups (Groups S and P, as sevoflurane and propofol groups respectively). Both groups were pre-treated with IV fentanyl 2μg/kg and then induced with IV propofol 2.5 mg/kg. In Group S, anaesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane inhalation 2.0 to 2.5% while in Group P, anaesthesia was maintained with propofol infusion (75-125 μg/kg/min), and 100% O2 at 4L/min.

Results: The age, weight and BMI between the two groups were comparable. The mean recovery time in group S was 6 minutes compared to 17 minutes in group P (p=0.007). The discharge time were also significantly in favour of group S which was 50 minutes compared to the 93 minutes of group P (p=0.001). The incidence of Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV), laryngospasm were comparable between the groups.

Conclusion: Sevoflurane is superior to propofol for maintenance of anaesthesia in day case laparoscopic gynaecological surgeries owing to its favourable recovery from anaesthesia and home readiness features. However, both groups were found to be comparable in terms of PONV, laryngospasm.

Comorbidities among overweight and obese adult patients seen at the General Outpatient Clinic of a Tertiary Hospital, South-South Nigeria

2026-04-14T23:48:53+00:00

Background: Overweight and obesity are major global health concerns, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. They are key risk factors for numerous non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, osteoarthritis, coronary heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. This study aimed to identify the common comorbidities associated with overweight and obesity among adult patients attending the General Outpatient Clinic of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 385 overweight and obese adults aged 18–60 years. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. Anthropometric measurements and laboratory investigations (fasting blood glucose and lipid profile) were obtained. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 17.0.

Results: Of the 385 questionnaires distributed, 380 were fully completed and analyzed (response rate: 98.7%). The identified comorbidities associated with overweight and obesity, in descending order, were: abnormal LDL (66.3%), hypertension (58.2%), hypercholesterolemia (52.6%), joint arthropathies (46.8%), erectile dysfunction (32.4%), fertility problems (30.3%), raised triglycerides (26.6%), diabetes mellitus (12.4%), and abnormal HDL (3.9%). Only osteoarthritis/arthropathies showed a statistically significant association with overweight/obesity (χ² = 4.901, p = 0.03).

Conclusion: Osteoarthritis/arthropathy was the identified comorbidity significantly associated with overweight and obesity in this population. Public health efforts should promote healthier diets and active lifestyles to prevent obesity-related comorbidities.

Clinicopathologic Characteristics of Prostate Cancer in a Nigerian Tertiary Health Facility

2026-04-16T11:11:19+00:00

Background: Cancer of prostate (CAP) is a public health problem. Its prognosis depends on various clinical and histopathological parameters.

Objective: The study aimed to analyze the clinical and histopathological characteristics of CAP diagnosed in our facility.

Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive cross-sectional study of histopathologically confirmed cases of CAP seen in our facility over a 3year period.

Results: Out of the 550 cases reviewed during the study period, CAP was histopathologically diagnosed in 201 patients, giving an incidence of 36.5% for CAP in this study.

The mean age of the patients was 69.4+10.0 years (ranges:45.0 to 95.0 years). Twenty-two patients (10.9%) had a positive family history of CAP. The commonest symptom at presentation was lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) (63.7%) followed by urinary retention (8.0%). The median PSA was 35.8 ng/ml (Ranges: 7.9 to 200.0 ng/ml) while 116 (57.7%) had abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) findings. The predominant source of tissue for histopathology was prostate biopsy (85.1%). All were adenocarcinomas histopathologically, with majority of patients, 92.0 (45.8%), having moderately differentiated tumors. Gleason grade 3, being the predominant grade, was seen in 109 (54.2%) patients while the Gleason score 7 was the commonest observed in 92 (45.8%) patients.

The commonest ISUP grade seen in 55 (27.4%) patients was grade 1 with the least (12.4%) being ISUP grade IV.

There was no correlation between the age and the Gleason grade, Gleason score, ISUP grade and serum PSA (p-value >0.05) but there was a statistically significant difference in the mean age at diagnosis with those having a positive family history of CAP presenting at earlier age compared to those without positive family history (P<0.001)

Conclusion: Adenocarcinomas were the only histopathology variant seen in this study with majority of tumors being moderately differentiated. Gleason grade 3 was the predominant pattern seen with ISUP grade 1 tumors being commonest. A positive family of CAP is an important determinant of age of onset of CAP.

Mental Health Status and Associated Risk Factors Among In-School Adolescents in a Rural Community in Rivers State, Nigeria

2026-04-16T11:46:31+00:00

Context: Globally, the mental health of adolescents is a significant public health issue preventing many adolescents from reaching their full potential. Several socio-economic, cultural, and systemic factors make adolescents, especially in Nigeria, vulnerable.

Aim: The study was therefore conducted to assess the mental health status and identify risk factors of in-school adolescents in Community Secondary school Edagberi, Ahoada West, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study among 231 in-school adolescents in Edagberi Better Land community of Rivers State was conducted. Community Secondary school Edagberi is one of the Renaissance Africa Energy Company, formerly Shell Petroleum Development Company supported schools with a recently commissioned Sick Bay and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities. A self-administered questionnaire including the General Health Questionnaire 12 (GHQ12) was used to elicit information from the respondents. Data were summarized using proportions, and X2 test was used to explore associations between categorical variables. Level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: The mean age of the respondents was 14.4 ± 2.13 years, 58.4% were females, 55.0% were from junior class, and 78.8% resided with their parents. Based on the GHQ categorization, 69(29.9%) had traits of poor mental health status, compared to 70.1% with good mental health status. Some commonly reported stressors by the students were trekking long distances to school (54.1%), high transportation costs (51.9%) and family problems (49.9%). Predictors of poor mental health status in our study were low self-image /esteem (OR 2.19; 95% CI 1.16 -4.16) and polygamous family type (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.24 -3.65) (p<0.05).

Conclusion: With a little over a quarter (29.9%) of adolescents with traits of poor mental health, provision of age-appropriate mental health services is strongly recommended to be incorporated in the school Health programme, particularly targeting students with low self-esteem and anxiety issues.

Immuno-histochemical profile and demographic pattern of breast cancer patients at a tertiary hospital, Ondo state, south western Nigeria

2026-04-16T23:40:26+00:00

Background: Breast cancer is still the most common cancer among women. It is the commonest cause of cancer death. The diagnosis of breast cancer is very important. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a pathological technique that displays the tissue component by the interaction of target antigens with specific antibodies tagged with a visible label. IHC is an important diagnostic and prognostic tool in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. It complements the routine histopathology and further helps in accurate tumour and molecular subtype classification of breast cancer.

Objectives: The study aims to determine the immunohistochemical classification of carcinomas of the breast based on the estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 neu receptors status, and also to review the socio-demographic factors associated with them in our center.

Materials and methods: This was a retrospective cross sectional analysis of 178 histologically confirmed diagnosed breast cancer cases for which estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 status data were available at the Surgery and Oncology outpatient unit of the tertiary hospital in Akure, Ondo state. Relevant bio data, pathology, and immunohistochemical information of all the patients with histologically confirmed breast cancer were extracted from the patients’ case files.

Result: The mean age was 49.08 ± 0.9years. The age of the patients ranged from 23 to 78 years. There were 175 (98.3%) females and 3 (1.7%) males. Estrogen, progesterone and HER 2neu positive breast cancers were; 49 (27.5%), 38(21.3%) and 57(32%) respectively. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) was the most prevalent type, 87 (48.9%), followed by HER2 type 39 (21.9%) and Luminal B 27(15.2%), while Luminal A 25 (14%) was the least common molecular subtype in our review. There was no significant association between the sociodemographic factors and molecular subtype.

Conclusions: The TNBC is the most common type of breast cancer seen in our setting.

Knowledge, Attitude, Practices and Factors associated with Practices of Caregivers of Children with Allergic Conjunctivitis in Kano, Northwestern Nigeria

2026-04-17T01:58:02+00:00

Background: Ocular allergies, including allergic conjunctivitis (AC), have become increasingly prevalent globally. In West Africa, AC affects up to 39.2% of children. In Nigeria, approximately 18% of children in hotspots are affected by it. Despite the high prevalence of AC, there is limited research on the knowledge, attitude, and health-seeking practices of caregivers.

Objective: The study assessed the knowledge, attitude, practices and factors associated with practices of caregivers of children with allergic conjunctivitis in Kano, Northwestern Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in three health facilities in Kano metropolis among caregivers of children with allergic conjunctivitis. Respondents were selected using systematic sampling and data were collected using an interviewer-administered, pretested questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitude and practices. Knowledge (11 items), attitude (10 Likert items), and practices (9 items) were scored and categorised into predefined levels.

Data was analysed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics were presented as means, standard deviations, frequencies and percentages. Associations between socio-demographic characteristics and caregivers’ practices were tested using Pearson’s Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test. A p-value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: A total of 398 caregivers participated, (365,89.4%) were mothers, predominantly aged 21-40 years (320,80.4%) and of Hausa ethnicity (322,80.9%). Majority had secondary education (220,55.3%), and (247,62.1%) earned less than ₦40,000 monthly. About 260(65.3%) had good knowledge of allergic conjunctivitis. and 209(52.5%) had a negative attitude toward allergic conjunctivitis. Health-seeking practices were suboptimal, and only 59(14.8%) demonstrated good practices. No socio-demographic factors were significantly associated with caregivers’ practices (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: This study revealed gaps in caregivers' practices despite adequate knowledge of allergic conjunctivitis, with socioeconomic factors like low-income influencing care. To improve practices, Context-specific interventions addressing misconceptions and structural barriers are needed to improve health-seeking behaviours. interventions and treatment adherence, timely medical care while addressing logistical barriers.

Knowledge, Perception and Uptake of the Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination among Female Undergraduates in a Nigerian Private University

2026-04-17T02:20:22+00:00

Context: Nigeria had a cervical cancer incidence rate of 26.2 cases per 100, 000 women as of 2022. The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is responsible for over 99% of cervical cancer cases, and vaccination is safe and effective for its prevention and control.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the knowledge, perception, and uptake of HPV vaccination among female undergraduates of Babcock University, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study with 300 female undergraduates. The instrument was a pretested, self-administered questionnaire. Univariate analysis was used to present the knowledge, perception and uptake of HPV vaccination, as well as the reasons for non-vaccination (barriers); while bivariate analysis (Chi-Square) was used to test for associations. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results: Majority (82%) of the respondents hmd good knowledge of the HPV vaccination, while 57.7% had good perception of the HPV vaccination. However, only 17.7% of respondents had been vaccinated, and only 2% had completed 3 doses of the vaccine. Barriers to vaccination were non-availability (26.7%), cost (24.3%) and safety concern (22.3%). The level of study was significantly associated with the knowledge (p=0.027), perception (p<0.001) and uptake of the HPV vaccination (p=0.003), while age was significantly associated with the knowledge (p=0.045) and perception of HPV vaccination (p=0.043).

Conclusion: The knowledge and perception of the HPV vaccination among the participants were good and fair respectively, but the uptake was low. There is a need for sustained health education, availability and affordability of the HPV vaccines.

Prevalence, Perceptions, and Social Determinants of Psychoactive Substance Use among Adolescents in Public and Private Secondary Schools in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

2026-04-17T22:54:17+00:00

Background: Adolescence is a critical developmental stage during which health behaviours with long-term consequences are often established. Psychoactive substance (PAS) use commonly begins during this period, necessitating continuous monitoring and understanding of associated risk factors.

Objective: To compare the prevalence, perceptions, and social determinants of PAS use among adolescents in public and private secondary schools in Uyo, Nigeria.

Methods: A comparative cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted among 844 adolescents selected through multistage sampling from public and private secondary schools. Data were collected using a pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from the WHO Global Assessment Programme. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 25, with descriptive and inferential statistics applied. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Qualitative data were thematically analysed. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital Ethics Committee.

Results: A total of 416 private-school and 428 public-school students participated. Mean ages were 13.1 ± 2.0 years (private) and 13.7 ± 2.2 years (public). Lifetime alcohol use was significantly higher in public schools (4.7%) than private schools (2.2%) (p<0.05). Other PAS use was low and occurred only among students with prior alcohol use. Key predictors of PAS use included family substance use and peer influence in both school types.

Conclusion: PAS use was generally low but higher among public-school students. Alcohol appears to act as a gateway substance. Family and peer influences are significant determinants, highlighting the need for targeted school-based and community interventions.

Use of traditional eye medicines by corneal ulcer patients presenting to a tertiary eye centre in south-south Nigeria

2026-04-17T23:46:19+00:00

Background: Unorthodox therapies, organic or inorganic agents, applied through different routes of administration to achieve a desired ocular therapeutic effect and referred to as Traditional eye medicines (TEM), are associated with devastating sequelae on the cornea, leading to avoidable blindness. The use of TEM is usually deleterious to the eye and its use on a diseased cornea is more devastating.

Objective: To investigate the frequency and forms of TEM used by patients with corneal ulcer presenting to the Eye department, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: It was a retrospective hospital-based descriptive study undertaken at the Eye department, UCTH, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.The use of TEM by corneal ulcer patients presenting to the department during a one-year period (January to December 2024) was documented. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20 (SPSS Inc. Illinois, Chicago).

Results: A total of 33 patients with corneal ulcer were seen within the study period. Over half of the patients 18 (54.5%) were in the 21-50 years age range. The male to female ratio of patients was 2.3:1. Farming (39.4%), trading (21.2%) and student/pupil (18.2%) were the three most common occupations of participants. Almost half of the patients 16 (48.5%) had applied TEM prior to presentation, of which, about half 7(43.8%) of these TEM users had instilled two different substances (either concomitantly or sequentially). Biological-based substances accounted for 22 (95.7%) of TEMs used by the patients.

Conclusion: There was a worrisome rate of TEM use in the treatment of corneal ulcer prior to orthodox ophthalmic consultation. Strategic, long term eye health educational intervention at the grassroot is necessary to curtail the prevalent use of TEM among patients with corneal ulcer.

Prevalence of refractive error among secondary school students in Katagum Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria

2026-04-18T00:07:14+00:00

Background: Uncorrected refractive error is the most common cause of childhood visual impairment and the second leading cause of treatable blindness. It significantly impacts overall socio-economic development and is particularly common in low- and middle-income countries.

Aim: To assess the prevalence and patterns of refractive errors among public and private secondary school students in Katagum LGA, Bauchi State.

Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among secondary school students selected from 10 schools across 7 wards of the LGA, using a multistage random sampling method. Ocular examinations were performed according to the modified Refractive Error Study in Children (RESC) protocol, which included visual acuity assessment, pinhole testing, and subjective refraction ± cycloplegia. Data analysis was conducted with SPSS v24. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done. The level of significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: The study included 701 students, aged 12–22 years (mean 15.7 ± 1.97), with a female: male ratio of 1:1.1. The prevalence of refractive error was 11.7% (95% CI: 4.0% to 8.8%). Myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism accounted for 63.4%, 26.8%, and 9.8% of the errors, respectively. Females and students aged 15–16 years had the highest burden. Low-grade myopia (−0.50 to −1.75 DS), hypermetropia (+0.5 to +1.75DS); astigmatism in that order were the most common. Spectacle correction significantly improved visual acuity, with 96.9% achieving 6/6 vision after refraction.

Conclusion: This study reports a high prevalence of refractive errors among secondary school students in Katagum LGA, with low-grade myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism being the most frequent, especially among females, it significantly improved with spectacles. Regular routine school eye screening and provision of affordable spectacles will reduce the burden of avoidable visual impairment among students.

Factors associated with School Health Program implementation in secondary schools in Cross River State: A Qualitative Study

2026-04-18T00:33:34+00:00

Background: School health, a vital tool for the holistic well-being of the school population has dual roles of promoting health and adapting schools as settings for health-promoting activities. The dedication and awareness of school heads regarding school health policies were recognized as key drivers of successful implementation. So, this study, through the perspectives of the school heads, aimed to explore factors influencing SHP implementation in secondary schools in Cross River State based on the Socio-Ecological Model (SEM) as the thematic framework.

Methods: This qualitative study was carried out across 56 secondary schools in Cross River State in Southern Nigeria., where 6 Focus Group Discussions were conducted among head teachers of secondary schools in Cross River State. The data were analysed through a thematic framework method tailored for analyzing qualitative data

Results: Several factors were identified across SEM levels to affect the implementation of School Health Program (SHP) in the study area. These factors include individual awareness and knowledge, interpersonal collaboration, institutional resources, community involvement, and policy support.

Conclusion: This study revealed a sub-optimal school health program implementation in the state. Multi-level strategies are required at individual and structural level to strengthen SHP implementation. There should be awareness creation, capacity building of implementers, and improved stakeholders and government commitment to effective implementation of SHP in schools

The Effect of Central Corneal Thickness on the Intraocular Pressure of Patients at a Rural Cataract Eye Camp in Nigeria

2026-04-19T04:15:38+00:00

Background: Understanding the effect of central corneal thickness (CCT) on intraocular pressure (IOP) is crucial for accurate measurement of IOP and glaucoma risk assessment.

Aim: To compare IOP values obtained before and after correction with central corneal thickness using the iCare tonometer among patients with cataract at a mobile eye outreach camp.

Methods: This was an institution-based cross-sectional study analysed consecutive records of baseline IOP, CCT values and corrected IOP from a mobile outreach register. Demographic data, such as age and sex were extracted. A Microsoft Excel sheet was created and data analysed with IBM SPSS version 25. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done, and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Records of 146 eyes of 73 patients were included of whom 64.4% were females and mean age of 53.2 years ± 13.72 SD. The mean baseline IOP, CCT and corrected IOP were 16.88mmHg ± 5.73 SD, 538.3µm ± 40.5 SD and 17.52mmHg ± 6.33 SD, respectively, on the right eye. While on the left, they were 16.08mmHg ± 6.06 SD, 537.1µm ± 52.7 SD and 16.61mmHg ± 6.29 SD, respectively. IOP increase with CCT correction was not significant.

Conclusion: The mean IOP increased following correction for CCT, but this was not statistically significant. However, the negative correlation between CCT and corrected IOP underscores the need to incorporate CCT adjustments in screening programs to improve the accuracy and guide public health interventions.

Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns, Resistance and Virulence Genes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Hospitalized Patients in Lagos, Nigeria

2026-04-19T05:17:40+00:00

Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been a major cause of healthcare-associated infections due to increasing antimicrobial resistance. This study investigates the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance and virulence determinants in P. aeruginosa from patients.

Materials and Methods: A total of 550 clinical samples were collected from patients attending public hospitals between August 2022 and July 2024 in Lagos. The samples were processed, and Pseudomonas isolates were identified. Furthermore, the isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) using standard protocols. Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction was used with specific primers to detect resistance (blaOXA-48, blaVIM) and virulence (oprL, toxA) gene markers

Results: The prevalence of 6.7% (37/550) Pseudomonas species was recorded, consisting of 23 P. aeruginosa, 11 P. alcaligenes, and 3 P. maltophilia. A higher prevalence (5.2%) occurred in females than males, with the age group 31–49 years mostly implicated. There were no statistically significant associations between age or sex and infections (p > 0.05) recorded. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was 100% resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, colistin and tigecycline, 78.3% to meropenem, and 73.9% to ceftazidime. Eighteen distinct resistance patterns were observed. Carbapenemase production was detected in 73.9% of P. aeruginosa, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESβL) in 26.1%, and AmpC β-lactamase in 13%. Interestingly, 100% of P. aeruginosa expressed oprL, and 95.7% expressed toxA, while 13% of P. aeruginosa carried blaOXA-48 and blaVIM, from septiceamia cases.

Conclusion: Multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains carrying blaOXA-48 and blaVIM and virulence genes oprL and toxA are currently circulating in Lagos. A need for antimicrobial stewardship and molecular surveillance to mitigate the effects.

Determinants of Caregivers’ Knowledge of Childhood Vaccination in Calabar South Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria

2026-04-19T07:06:28+00:00

Background: Caregivers’ knowledge of childhood vaccination, including vaccine schedules, doses, and disease prevention, varies widely across settings. In Calabar, there is limited evidence assessing caregivers’ knowledge of childhood vaccination.

Objectives: This study assessed knowledge of childhood vaccination and its determinants among caregivers in Calabar South Local Government Area.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among caregivers of children aged 12–23 months in Calabar South LGA using a multistage sampling technique. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied. Factors associated with caregivers’ knowledge were assessed using multivariate binary logistic regression, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Ethical approval was obtained from the Cross River State Health Research Ethics Committee (CRSMOH/RP/HRE/2023/401).

Results: A total of 460 caregivers participated in the study out of which 395(85.9%) were females while 65(14.1%) were males. Overall, caregivers’ knowledge of vaccine-preventable diseases was poor. Knowledge of diseases prevented by BCG, OPV, yellow fever, and pentavalent vaccines was 28.5%, 20.9%, 14.4%, and 8.2%, respectively. Health facilities were the main source of vaccine information (29.1%), followed by radio (17.9%) and home visits (14.3%). Caregivers’ age, relationship with the child, education, and occupation were significantly associated with knowledge. Vaccine timeliness, educational level, and means of transport to health facilities were significant predictors of knowledge of childhood vaccination.

Conclusion: Caregivers’ knowledge of childhood vaccination was poor. Strengthened health education campaigns are needed to improve awareness and support for childhood vaccination.

Placental thickness and imaging biomarkers as predictors of neonatal outcomes in term singleton pregnancies in a tertiary hospital in Uyo

2026-04-19T07:58:24+00:00

Context: Accurate antenatal prediction of neonatal outcomes remains a global clinical challenge, particularly in low-resource settings. Placental imaging biomarkers are underutilized in routine obstetric practice.

Aim: To assess placental thickness and selected ultrasound-derived placental imaging biomarkers as predictors of adverse neonatal outcomes.

Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional analytical study included 320 term singleton pregnancies to evaluate the association between placental thickness, Doppler indices, and neonatal outcomes. Placental thickness, echotexture, placental lakes, uterine and umbilical artery Doppler indices were measured. Neonatal outcomes assessed included birth weight, 5-minute Apgar score, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, and early neonatal morbidity. Multivariable logistic regression identified independent associations between placental parameters and outcomes.

Results: Abnormal placental thickness (thin) was observed in 38 (64.4%) and (thick) 21 (35.6%) of abnormal placentas. Abnormal echotexture and placental lakes were seen in 67 (20.9%) and 58 (18.1%), respectively. Elevated umbilical and uterine artery resistance was noted in 51 (15.9%) and 45 (14.1%) of cases. Adverse neonatal outcomes included 20 (33.9%) low birth weight, 16 (27.1%) low Apgar score, and 23 (39.0%) NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) admissions. Multivariable analysis showed that combined placental biomarkers independently predicted adverse outcomes shown by abnormal placental thickness (AOR-7.85, P-value - <0.001, 95% CI: 4.10-15.02), Elevated umbilical resistive index (AOR-5.62, P-value - <0.001, 95% CI: 2.90-10.88) and abnormal uterine artery Doppler (AOR-4.97, P-value - <0.001, 95% CI: 2.45-10.10)

Conclusion: Placental thickness combined with imaging biomarkers such as echotexture, lakes, and Doppler indices provides a practical, non-invasive approach to predict neonatal outcomes, supporting comprehensive placental evaluation in antenatal care.

Healthcare professionals’ knowledge of job stress, perceived signs and symptoms, and coping strategies: A cross-sectional study

2026-04-19T10:12:33+00:00

Context: Prolonged work hours with associated sleep deprivation through night-shifts, uncontrolled schedules, and high job demands have been adjudged major sources of job stress among healthcare professionals, thus affecting workers’ mental and physical health. This study determined healthcare professionals’ knowledge of job stress, perceived symptoms, and coping strategies in Cross River State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey that employed 30-item semi-structured questionnaire to elicit information from 422 healthcare professionals selected using simple-random-sampling technique across 21 secondary and primary healthcare facilities in Central Senatorial District of Cross River State, Nigeria. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software (version 20.0). Quantitative data were summarized as mean +/-standard deviation while categorical data were summarized as frequencies and percentages. Pearson-Chi-square test was used to test for association between categorical variables at 5% level of significance (p-value < 0.05).

Results: Majority 278(66.0%) were females; 215(50.9%) were aged between 18 and 30 years; 235(55.7%) had worked for 1-5 years. Less than half, 184(43.7%), had good knowledge of job stress (mean knowledge score was 14.0±5.1). Most 261(61.8%) perceived their symptoms of job stress to be severe; only 145(22.9%) used approved work-free days as coping strategy. Association between knowledge of job stress and coping strategies (p=0.001) and perceived stress symptoms and coping strategies (p=0.001) were significant.

Conclusion: Knowledge of job stress was good; symptoms of job stress was severe, and adoption of days-off was the main coping strategy. Hence, public health education intervention on health impact of job stress and stress reduction strategies is strongly advocated and recommended.

Coping Strategies and Generalized Anxiety Disorder among Female Breast Cancer Patients in Kano, Northwestern Nigeria

2026-04-19T13:44:20+00:00

Context/Aim: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women in Nigeria and is often diagnosed at advanced stages. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is common among patients, but the role of coping strategies remains poorly understood in Northwestern Nigeria. This study assessed the prevalence of GAD and its association with coping strategies among female breast cancer patients in Kano.

Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2023 and February 2024 at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano. Using systematic sampling, 240 adult female patients with histologically confirmed breast cancer were recruited. Coping strategies were assessed with the Brief COPE Inventory and categorised as good (adaptive) or poor (maladaptive). GAD was diagnosed using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI-7). Data were analysed using SPSS version 21, with a chi-square test used to assess association at p < 0.05.

Results: The overall prevalence of GAD was 21.3% (51/240). Good coping strategies were used by 87.1% (209/240) of participants, while 12.9% (31/240) used poor coping strategies. GAD prevalence was similar in both groups: 21.1% (44/209) among those with good coping and 22.6% (7/31) among those with poor coping. There was no statistically significant association between coping category and GAD (χ² = 0.038, p = 0.846).

Conclusion: Approximately one in five female breast cancer patients in Kano had generalised anxiety disorder. Coping strategies measured by the Brief COPE were not significantly associated with GAD in this setting. Routine screening for anxiety and culturally appropriate psychosocial support should be integrated into breast cancer care in Northwestern Nigeria.

Psychometric Validation of the TEAS and CATS Recovery Scales among Individuals with Substance Use Disorders in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital

2026-04-20T00:38:57+00:00

Context: Reliable measurement tools are critical for assessing the efficacy of substance use disorder (SUD) treatments, especially in low-resource settings. The Treatment Efficacy Assessment Scale (TEAS) and Clinical and Treatment Satisfaction Scale (CATS) were developed to monitor recovery domains and treatment satisfaction among individuals receiving addiction care.This study evaluated the psychometric properties and construct validity of the TEAS and CATS instruments among patients undergoing treatment for SUDs at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional sample of 201 respondents completed both TEAS and CATS. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. Factor structure was examined using principal component analysis (PCA) with Varimax rotation. Construct validity was assessed through correlational and logistic regression analyses involving clinical variables (e.g., comorbidities, legal issues, and functioning domains).

Results: TEAS demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (α = 0.74) and a unidimensional factor structure. CATS showed excellent reliability (α = 0.90) with a single extracted component. Both tools demonstrated significant correlation with objective clinical indicators and patient-reported outcomes, thereby supporting their construct validity. These findings support the routine clinical use of TEAS and CATS for outcome monitoring in Nigerian addiction care settings.

A rigid hymen in a patient with primary infertility: A case report

2026-04-20T01:20:15+00:00

Infertility is a cause for global concern and is associated with several negative impacts on the couple, especially the female partner.

This case report describes a 40 year old lady who presented with inability to conceive for 7 years, severe pains during sexual intercourse and cessation of menses for 3 years’ duration. A diagnosis of primary infertility, rigid hymen and premature ovarian insufficiency was made. The couple subsequently achieved successful painless deep vaginal penetration after regular counseling/psychotherapy sessions for 7 months. However, the couple are yet to adopt a treatment option for premature ovarian insufficiency.

Vaginal varicose veins in advanced pregnancy: a rare occurrence

2026-04-20T02:08:51+00:00

Varicose veins are common in pregnancy due to hormonal influences and increased venous pressure; however, vaginal varicosities are a rare and often underreported manifestation. Their presence poses diagnostic challenges and may influence obstetric management because of the potential risk of hemorrhage during vaginal delivery. We present a case of vaginal varicosity in a 32year old G3P2+0, 2 alive. She presented with complain of painless vaginal swelling noticed incidentally at 17 weeks of gestation. The swelling persisted then remained stable. She also had varicose veins on her lower limbs bilaterally. Vaginal examination revealed a bluish soft, non-tender, compressible swellings involving the vaginal walls. Doppler Ultrasound Scan revealed a mass in the vaginal walls with high flow on doppler interrogation/augmentation and Valsalva maneuver. An assessment of vaginal varicosity was made. She was counseled on the mode of delivery and had elective caesarean section on account of vaginal varicose veins and coexisting breech presentation at term. The swelling started regressing after delivery and by 6 weeks post-partum it had resolved completely.

Bicornuate uterus with successful pregnancy after recurrent miscarriages – A case report

2026-04-20T04:16:30+00:00

A bicornuate uterus is a congenital anomaly of the uterus, which is due to non-fusion or incomplete fusion of the Mullerian ducts; and has been associated with poor pregnancy outcome. This report highlights the case of a 30 year old nulliparous trader with a bicornuate unicolis uterus, who had a successful pregnancy, after six consecutive miscarriages, following insertion of a cervical cerclage. She was delivered via caesarean section at a gestational age of 33 weeks due to mild abruptio placenta. This brings to the fore the need for close monitoring of such patients and the usefulness of cervical cerclage in achieving a favourable pregnancy outcome.

Bladder Calculus Complicating Intravesical Foreign Body with Rectovesical Fistula and Fournier’s Gangrene

2026-04-20T04:32:12+00:00

We report a case of a 22-year-old man who presented with suprapubic pain and swelling, intermittent haematuria, acute-on-chronic urinary retention, leakage of urine from the rectum, scrotal gangrene and urosepsis. Abdominal ultrasound scan done showed a large bladder stone formed around a piece of bamboo stick with bilateral hydroureteronephrosis. He was treated by open cystolithotomy, scrotal debridement, suprapubic urinary diversion, scrotal wound dressing and broad-spectrum antibiotics. The chemical analysis stone showed that it was composed of calcium phosphate mixed with calcium oxalate. The rectovesical fistula healed spontaneously after three weeks and the scrotal gangrene healed by secondary intention after six weeks of antibiotics, sitz bath and wound dressing with honey-soaked gauze.