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- ItemRevitalizing the state of primary healthcare towards achieving universal health coverage in conflict affected fragile northeastern Nigeria: Challenges, strategies and way forward(Narra X, 2024-11-06) Abdulafeez K. Abdulkadir; Shuaibu S. Musa; Adamu M. Ibrahim; Molly U. Ogbodum; Usman A. Haruna; Ahmed A. Gololo; Enyinnaya Ukaegbu; Joseph Agyapong; Muktar M. Shallangwa; Nuruddeen A. Adamu; Bello A. Muhammad; Don E. Lucero-Prisno IIIThe Alma-Ata Declaration of 1978 defined primary healthcare as a critical way to obtain universal healthcare and 'health for all.' In Nigeria, the National Health Policy (NHP) and the subsequent formation of the Primary Health Care (PHC) system aim to modernize healthcare delivery at the grassroots level. In recent decades, however, the status of primary healthcare in Nigeria, particularly in the northeastern region, has significantly deteriorated, further posing significant threats to health equity and universal access to healthcare. Armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, insufficient finance, inadequate infrastructure, and labor shortages have negatively impacted the region's PHC facilities. This article discusses the poor state of primary healthcare in northeastern Nigeria and its implications for achieving universal health coverage in the region. In addition, the article elaborates on the historical context, highlights the difficulties and challenges in the development of primary healthcare, and explores potential solutions to improve the system.
- ItemPaucity of health data in Africa: an obstacle to digital health implementation and evidence-based practice(Public Health Reviews, 2023-08-29) Musa, S.M; Haruna, U.A; Manirambona, E; Eshun, G; Ahmad, D.M; Dada, D.A.; Gololo, A.A; Musa, S.S; Abdulkadir, A.K; Lucero-Prisno III, D.EAmong the numerous challenges that Africa faces in improving its healthcare systems, the paucity of health data stands out as paramount. This study aims to examine the challenges related to the paucity of health data in Africa and its impact on the implementation of digital health and evidence-based practice. The findings of the study reveal that health data availability in Africa is both limited and frequently of poor quality. Several factors contribute to this concerning situation, encompassing inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of resources, and cultural barriers. Furthermore, the available data, despite its limitations, is often underutilized due to a lack of capacity and expertise in data analysis and interpretation.
- ItemSkin Lightening Among Young Adults in Ilorin West, Nigeria: Health Risks, Societal Pressures, and the Pursuit of Fairness.(Koozakar LLC. Norcross GA 30071, United States, 2025-01-30) Olaolu Oyinlola Bilewu *1 , Morufu Olalekan Raimi 2 , Oyeniyi Adegboyegba1 , Ige Taiye1 , Saka Bolakale Sulayman1 , Idowu David Alake 3Skin-lightening practices are increasingly common among young adults, influenced by societal beauty standards, cultural traditions, and economic factors. However, these practices pose serious health risks, including skin damage and psychological distress. Limited awareness of these dangers, coupled with regulatory gaps, exacerbates the issue, necessitating targeted interventions. This study investigates the health risks and socio-demographic factors influencing skin-lightening practices among young adults in Ilorin West, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 450 participants, primarily aged 18–23 years. Structured questionnaires captured data on sociodemographic characteristics, product usage, health effects, and influencing factors. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were used to assess associations between socio-demographic variables and skin-lightening prevalence. Findings indicate a high prevalence (65.3%) of skin-lightening, particularly among young, single, female students with secondary education. Reported adverse effects include skin irritation (37.8%) and hyperpigmentation (25.3%). Alarmingly, 76.2% of respondents were unaware of the long-term health risks. Cultural and economic factors significantly influenced behavior, with affordability and tribal norms playing key roles. The Hausa ethnic group exhibited the highest prevalence (73.5%), while usage was highest among individuals aged 21–23 years. These findings underscore the urgent need for public health interventions. Raising awareness through culturally sensitive education campaigns, enforcing stricter regulations on harmful products, and engaging social influencers can help reshape societal beauty norms. Policymakers must implement stronger controls on the production and sale of hazardous skin-lightening products. Additionally, promoting self-acceptance and healthier beauty ideals through community-based advocacy can reduce reliance on harmful practices. This study highlights the critical health risks associated with skin-lightening among young adults. Addressing the cultural and societal drivers of these behaviors can improve physical and mental health outcomes, fostering a healthier perception of beauty. and mental health outcomes, fost
- ItemPERCEIVED FACTORS INFLUENCING UTILIZATION OF TRADITIONAL BIRTH ATTENDANTS’ SERVICES AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN ILORIN SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KWARA STATE, NIGERIA.(INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCED RESEARCH IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY STUDIES (IJARMS), 2024-06-20) Abdulmajeed Opeyemi AgboolaThis study investigates the Perceived Factors Influencing the Utilization of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) Services Among Women of Reproductive Age in Ilorin South Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. It examines sociodemographic characteristics, and factors responsible for the utilization of services of Traditional Birth Attendants, and recommends appropriate measures based on identified gaps. A cross-sectional study was conducted in selected communities within Ilorin South Local Government Area, Kwara State. The population involved women of reproductive age. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The sample size of 245 women was determined using Fisher’s formula. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select participants. The results indicate a significant relationship between the sociodemographic characteristics (age, place of delivery, education level, husband's education level, occupation, and monthly income) and TBA utilization at a p-value of 0.0001 for all sociodemographic characteristics were less than 0.05 (p<0.05) when using a chi-square test level of significant association threshold at a p-value of 0.05. As a result, the alternative hypothesis was accepted and the null hypothesis, which suggests no correlation between sociodemographic traits and the use of TBAs, was rejected. The study highlighted the complex interplay of cultural norms, healthcare access, financial considerations, and personal experiences in influencing childbirth decisions. The preference for TBAs, driven by their perceived friendly and professional attitudes, underscores the need for integrating TBAs within the healthcare system. The findings suggest a need for targeted interventions to improve maternal healthcare access and quality, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The government should conduct training sessions for every identified traditional birth attendant and strengthen basic obstetric care and emergency procedures regulations to improve their skills and knowledge.
- ItemBridging the gap to malaria vaccination in Africa: Challenges and opportunities(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-01-23) Okesanya Olalekan John; Atewologun Faith; Lucero-Prisno Don Eliseo; Adigun Olaniyi Abideen; Oso Adebimpe Tolutope; Manirambona Emery; Olabode Olaleke Noah; Eshun Gilbert; Okon Ime Inibehe; Agboola Abdulmajeed OpeyemiThe current state of malaria is devastating owing to the continual dominance of P. falciparum in the African region. Despite progress, the burden remains high, with the African continent contributing significantly to global malaria deaths. The introduction of malaria vaccines, such as RTS,S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M™, brings hope to the continent, but challenges persist in achieving widespread coverage. Financial constraints, fragmented supply chains, logistical challenges, and vaccine hesitancy are key obstacles. The complex interplay of social, cultural, biological, political, and educational factors further complicates the fight against malaria. To bridge the vaccination gap, a multifaceted approach involving healthcare facilities, governments, non-profit organisations, and global agencies is expedient. It emphasises the importance of community engagement, collaboration with cultural and religious leaders, and leveraging mass media for awareness campaigns tailored to diverse African cultures. Specific recommendations include improving healthcare infrastructure, enhancing access to qualified healthcare providers, creating effective transportation management systems, and implementing comprehensive inventory management policies. Governments are urged to prioritise multistakeholder collaboration, strengthen technical working groups, expedite bureaucratic processes, and invest in multidisciplinary research to identify and address obstacles to malaria vaccination. It calls for cooperative efforts, better data utilisation, improved diagnostics, and comprehensive interventions to reduce the prevalence of malaria and improve public health in Africa. By emphasising the significance of education, knowledge, targeted awareness campaigns, and strategic communication in the malaria vaccine rollout, we can bridge the gaps in malaria vaccination in Africa.