African journal of empirical research, Apr 20, 2024
This study aimed to explore the interplay between socio-demographic enablers and the sustainabili... more This study aimed to explore the interplay between socio-demographic enablers and the sustainability of post-open-defecation-free status among households in Butere Sub-County, Kakamega County, Kenya. The research adopted a cross-sectional survey to assess the sustainability of the open defecation-free status at the household level, surveying 6286 certified Open Defecation Free (ODF) households through stratified random sampling. A sample size of 376 households across three wards was selected for the study. Both quantitative and qualitative data were employed; quantitative data was analysed using SPSS Version 28.1, summarized using descriptive statistics, and presented in tables, pie charts, and frequency tables, whereas qualitative data was analysed thematically. Data analysis involved three stages; univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses. Chi-square tests analysed the statistically significant association between dependent and independent variables. Binary logistic regression predicted the probability of post-ODF status (whether the ODF status was sustainable or not), and 2x2 contingency tables were used to compute the odd ratio. Results revealed that only 9% of households sustained post-ODF status. The chi-square tests revealed a significant association between respondents' gender (χ² = 0.124, p = 0.009*), age distribution (χ² = 6.471, p < 0.05), presence of children under 5 years old in the household (χ² = 1.884, p = 0.004*), level of education (χ² = 5.726, p = 0.006*), employment status (χ² = 9.602, p = 0.006*), and monthly earning brackets (χ² = 11.783, p<0.001*). However, there was no statistically significant association between marital status (χ² = 10.409, p = 0.94>0.05), household size (χ² = 1.782, p = 0.56>0.05), and the sustainability of ODF. On the other hand, the odds ratio for employment status suggests that significant association (OR=1.333; p = 0.007*<0.05; 95% CI: 1.082-1.642), where employed individuals were 1.333 times more likely to sustain ODF status. Further analysis revealed that employment status was a statistically significant predictor of post-ODF sustainability (aOR=1.837 P=0.011; 95% CI: 1.132-2.980). The study concluded that most households (91%) did not sustain post-ODF status after the ODF declaration. It was recommended that health practitioners improve door-to-door monitoring and develop post-ODF tracking tools at the household level, focusing on important parameters from Ministry of Health guidelines. The government and other Water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) stakeholders should support communities in establishing and enhancing economic empowerment programs to increase household income and encourage investments in sanitation infrastructure and hygiene promotion activities.
Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approximately 9... more Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approximately 91.2% of Kenyan men have undergone circumcision. However, male circumcision is not traditionally practiced in Turkana community with male circumcision rates ranging from 5-10%. The study's goals were to identify the influences on consensual medical male circumcision acceptance in Turkana County caused by psychological aspects. Methodology: The cross-sectional study was carried out in Loima, Turkana central and Turkana North subcounties between November 2021 to January 2022 with sample size of 434 adult men. Data was collected using both quantitative and qualitative tools. The researcher-administered survey, KII schedules, and a FGD guide. The Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 22 was used to analyze quantitative data, whereas qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The results were interpreted at 5% level of significance. Findings: Results showed that of 374 male participants in the study, 79.9% had undergone circumcision, 77.0% were aged 18-35 years, 94.1% were Christians, and 44.7% were unemployed while 54.8% were married. The overall mean scores of responses for psychosocial factors, psychosocial factors was 3.602 (positive). Psychological factors were predicted to increase uptake of VMMC by 0.99 [OR = 0.986; 95% CI: 0.745-1.228, P=0.000]. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that policies addressing main VMMC uptake amongst men in Turkana County should incorporate public participation, traditional leaders and local administrators for societal acceptance. There is need for effective sensitization and advocacy for behavioral change, mobilization and ownership of the initiative by the community.
HIV remains the most significant public health and development challenge in the world. In sub-Sah... more HIV remains the most significant public health and development challenge in the world. In sub-Saharan Africa, the youth bear the biggest brunt of HIV epidemic. Despite the availability of HIV prevention options, new infections among youth in Kenya only reduced by 59 % between 2015 and 2019. Various HIV prevention interventions have been implemented among youth with little or no assessment of their effectiveness in reducing new HIV infections. The objective of the study was to investigate effect of comprehensive HIV prevention information package on the risky sexual behavior among youth in Kakamega and Kericho counties, Kenya. A non-randomized control trial was conducted with Kakamega as intervention and Kericho as Comparison County. The pretest questionnaire was administered in both intervention and control counties in December 2001. The posttest questionnaire was administered in both intervention and control counties after nine months of providing HIV prevention information package...
Purpose: Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approx... more Purpose: Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approximately 91.2% of Kenyan men have undergone circumcision. However, male circumcision is not traditionally practiced in Turkana community with male circumcision rates ranging from 5-10%. The study's goals were to determine how socio-cultural factors, influence Voluntary male circumcision in Turkana County. Methodology: Utilizing a researcher-administered survey, KII schedules, and a FGD guide, data was gathered. 434 males made up the sample size. An analytical cross-sectional methodology was used in the investigation. The data was analyzed with SPSS 22. Results: Results showed that of 374 male participants in the study, 79.9% had undergone circumcision, 77.0% were aged 18-35 years, 94.1% were Christians, and 44.7% were unemployed while 54.8% were married. The overall mean scores of responses for socio-economic factors was 2.894 (negative). The study found that socioeconomic factors wa...
International journal of community medicine and public health/International journall of community medicine and public health, Apr 30, 2024
Background: Wetlands are known to harbor disease-causing bacteria, posing health risks that can b... more Background: Wetlands are known to harbor disease-causing bacteria, posing health risks that can be mitigated through improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices. This study aimed to understand the factors affecting nutritional status and its connection to WASH-related diseases among children under five in Ewaso Narok Wetland, Laikipia County. Methods: Using a mixed-method approach, qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Simple random method was used to identify the respondents. Results: Findings revealed that 36% of households surveyed had children with nutritional edema, with mean age, weight, and height at 21 months, 11 kilograms, and 73 centimeters respectively. Using WHO standards, a significant proportion of children were found to be undernourished at 45.3% and stunted at 41.3%. Socio-demographic factors like caregiver education level and marital status were identified as influential on the nutrition status. While 51% of households had unimproved water sources, 86% had access to toilet facilities, predominantly traditional pit latrines. 67% of the respondents were located near a wetland with a proximity ranging from 1km to 5km. Disease prevalence among children included diarrhea (46%), typhoid-related fevers (22%), and malaria (12%), with edema significantly associated with WASH diseases. Conclusions: Factors such as feces disposal, wetland proximity, protective gear use, handwashing, and toilet facilities were linked to child nutrition. Recommendations include implementing WASH programs, improving water and sanitation access, promoting hygiene practices, ensuring safe feces disposal, using protective gear in wetlands, and advocating for improved toilet facilities. Further research is warranted to assess intervention effectiveness and explore additional influencing factors.
INTRODUCTION HIV remains the most significant public health and developmental challenge in the wo... more INTRODUCTION HIV remains the most significant public health and developmental challenge in the world. In Kenya, just like the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, young people aged 15-24 years bear the biggest brunt of the HIV epidemic. Lack of comprehensive knowledge of HIV prevention, low condom use, low uptake of HIV services and having multiple sexual partners, have been associated with these trends. This study set out to determine risky sexual behaviour and associated factors among youth in Kakamega and Kericho Counties in Kenya. METHODOLOGY To achieve this, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among youth in Kakamega and Kericho counties, Kenya. Consenting young people residing in these counties were the study subjects. Data was collected through structured interviews with young people using a standard questionnaire and direct observation. The qualitative data were transcribed, translated and entered into NVivo software for coding and further analysis. The quantitative data were entered into SPSS for descriptive and inferential analysis. RESULTS Despite the youths in both counties having high comprehensive knowledge of HIV prevention at 79.3%, they still engaged in risky sexual behaviours and 60.6% were in a sexual relationship. The uptake of HIV testing was 58.4% with an HIV prevalence of 6.9%. Condom use was only 48.1% and both males and females did not reveal irritation in the genital area to partners χ 2-test showing (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION The results of this study will inform the design of an HIV prevention information package that will promote safer sexual behaviour among young people.
International Journal of Translational Medical Research and Public Health, Apr 12, 2023
Background and Objective: Poor adherence to antihypertensive medications is a major barrier to bl... more Background and Objective: Poor adherence to antihypertensive medications is a major barrier to blood pressure control among patients living with hypertension. In Kenya, a significant number of hypertensive patients have uncontrolled blood pressure, but data on medication adherence among this patient population is scarce. This study sought to determine the prevalence and correlates of medication non-adherence among hypertensive patients on follow-up in two referral hospitals in central Kenya. Methods: We undertook a cross-sectional study comprising of 339 hypertensive patients undergoing followup care in two referral hospitals located in Nyeri County between October and December 2019. Medication adherence was assessed using a validated medication adherence questionnaire. Medication adherence was a dichotomous variable (adherent vs non-adherent), with the prevalence of non-adherence being measured as a proportion. Independent predictors of medication non-adherence were identified by fitting a multiple logistic regression model, where adjusted odds ratios (AORs) were computed for various covariates and interpreted at a 5% level of significance and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The study sample largely comprised of the female gender (65.2%) and elderly people (mean age, 65 years +/-12). Nearly half (46.6%) of the hypertensive patients interviewed were non-adherent to their medications. The factors associated with non-adherence were: having poor hypertension knowledge (AOR, 5.6, 95% CI, 3.3, 9.4); being on more than one antihypertensive medication (AOR, 2.8, 95% CI, 1.7, 4.7) and being on two or more daily doses of medications (AOR, 2.3, 95% CI, 1.3, 4.1). Conclusion and Implications for Translation: Non-adherence to prescribed medications is highly prevalent among hypertensive patients in central Kenya, and it should therefore be identified as a public health concern. Strategies aimed at optimizing medication adherence among hypertensive patients in this region may consider focusing on educational interventions to increase hypertension knowledge and also on simplification of treatment regimens.
Introduction: The sprawling of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the developing world ... more Introduction: The sprawling of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the developing world provides several challenges to ensuring health and safety practices among workers in the urban poor. Purpose: The main objective of the study will be to determine the knowledge of physical hazards and the use of PPEs based demographic characteristics among welders in Embakasi constituency, Nairobi County. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among 214 welders from 72 workshops in the Embakasi region, namely in Kariobangi South Light Industries, Kayole, and Umoja. Data collection procedure entailed observation, focus group discussions, and interviews with welders in Embakasi, Nairobi. Data were analysed using SPSS version 22 and both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were conducted to explain the association between the study variables. Results: The study indicated that 90.2% of welders knew the activities at the workplace that pose health hazard...
Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies and Management, 2013
This study sought to assess the knowledge, attitude and perceptions of the residents of Kadhodeki... more This study sought to assess the knowledge, attitude and perceptions of the residents of Kadhodeki village on the health risks posed by the Kadhodeki dumpsite. Using households as units of sampling, a descriptive cross sectional survey was carried out in June 2012. Random data were collected using a face-to-face researcher administered structured questionnaire and 323 participants were interviewed. Chi square was used to determine the association between the different variables. Findings indicate that residents possess a significantly low knowledge and a positive attitude (χ2 (1) = 224.03, p < 0.01; χ2 (1) = 8.697, p < 0.01) towards the Kadhodeki dumpsite. They were however no differences in risk perceptions. Participant's age, duration one had lived in the village and their level of education, were proxy measures of knowledge, attitude and perception. Odds ratio analysis indicates that age and duration did not influence participant's knowledge, attitude or perceptions. Rudimentary however, education accounted for a non significant 28% variation in respondents' attitude towards the health risks of the dumpsite (OR= 1.282; CI 0.828-1.997). Also adequate education significantly accounted for 67% variation in respondents' health risk perception (OR= 1.671; CI 1.304-2.140). This study would recommend that the ministry of Health come up with health education programmes for the general population on the dangers of uncontrolled waste disposal sites.
Insecticide treated nets (ITNs) have been identified as a key strategy in addressing malaria prob... more Insecticide treated nets (ITNs) have been identified as a key strategy in addressing malaria problem among young children and pregnant women. Their utilisation among under fives, however, have been found to be low in some areas.
Vaccination has been shown to be one of the most cost-effective health interventions worldwide. D... more Vaccination has been shown to be one of the most cost-effective health interventions worldwide. Despite the efforts made towards global immunization coverage, the number of unvaccinated and under-vaccinated infants is still high. The situation is no different in Kenya. Basic vaccination coverage reduced from 77% in 2008 to 70% in 2017. National basic vaccination coverage of 70% is significantly lower than the global target of 90% by the year 2020. There are gaping regional differences in immunization coverage. The lowest national immunization coverage is documented at 31% in West Pokot County. This study sought to identify the determinants of vaccination coverage among children between 12-23 months of age in West Pokot County. The study used a community-based cross-sectional design where mothers/guardians of children between 12-23 months old were randomly sampled. The objectives of the study were to estimate the immunization coverage, investigate factors influencing immunization cov...
The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the factors that influence the use of Insect... more The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the factors that influence the use of Insecticide Treated Bed-Nets (ITNs) by women for malaria control in Ndavaya and Kinango Divisions of Kinango District of Kenya. A cross-sectional survey design using systematic sampling technique was applied to collect data from 204 women selected randomly from the two divisions. Semi structured questionnaire, Key Informant Interview and Focused Group Discussion were the instruments used to gather data. Data on variables such as age, educational level, incomes and source of nets were summarized using graphs. Chi-square test was applied to test whether the deviations observed were as a result of chance or due to other factors. Results indicated among others that the use of ITNs increased with the level of education and income. The government therefore should develop a communication package for malaria endemic areas, encourage further research to establish the factors that influence use of ITNs ...
HIV/AIDS is a global health problem whose emergence has introduced new dimensions to health care ... more HIV/AIDS is a global health problem whose emergence has introduced new dimensions to health care delivery worldwide including Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT). Despite its proven benefits, high knowledge of VCT and its availability, its uptake is varied and often poor. It is commonly argued that teachers in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries have relatively high HIV prevalence rates than the general population. AIDS is claiming teachers more quickly than they can be trained in many countries and is the leading cause of death among teachers in the SSA countries. To identify determinants of HIV-VCT uptake amongst secondary schools teachers. A cross-sectional survey involving 246 secondary school teachers randomly selected in Thika district, central Kenya. HIV-VCT utilization among secondary school teachers was 30.5%. The younger and less experienced teachers were more likely to utilize HIV-VCT services than the older and more experienced ones (Likelihood ratio, P = 0.004). Pri...
International Journal Of Community Medicine And Public Health
Background: Non-adherence to medication is documented in the literature as a major barrier to blo... more Background: Non-adherence to medication is documented in the literature as a major barrier to blood pressure control among patients on treatment for hypertension. This study sought to evaluate the potential effectiveness of a mHealth intervention in supporting medication adherence among hypertensive patients on follow up. Methods: We undertook a single blind parallel randomized controlled trial among hypertensive patients undergoing follow up care in Nyeri County Referral Hospital between January and December, 2020. The trial comprised of two arms, with a total of 120 patients randomized on a 1:1 ratio. Patients in the experimental group were put on an educational health intervention comprising of mobile phone delivered SMS messages and interactive voice calls. Patients in the control group were continued on the usual care offered in the hospital’s medical outpatient clinic. The primary endpoint was medication adherence. Data was analyzed through the intention to treat approach at 5...
Background: Insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) are known to be highly effective in reducing mala... more Background: Insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) are known to be highly effective in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality. However, usage varies among households, and such variations in actual usage may seriously limit the potential impact of nets and cause spatial heterogeneity on malaria transmission. This study examined ITN ownership and underlying factors for among-household variation in use, and malaria transmission in two highland regions of western Kenya. Methods: Cross-sectional surveys were conducted on ITN ownership (possession), compliance (actual usage among those who own ITNs), and malaria infections in occupants of randomly sampled houses in the dry and the rainy seasons of 2009. Results: Despite ITN ownership reaching more than 71%, compliance was low at 56.3%. The compliance rate was significantly higher during the rainy season compared with the dry season (62% vs. 49.6%). Both malaria parasite prevalence (11.8% vs. 5.1%) and vector densities (1.0 vs.0.4 female/house/night) were significantly higher during the rainy season than during the dry season. Other important factors affecting the use of ITNs include: a household education level of at least primary school level, significantly high numbers of nuisance mosquitoes, and low indoor temperatures. Malaria prevalence in the rainy season was about 30% lower in ITN users than in non-ITN users, but this percentage was not significantly different during the dry season. Conclusion: In malaria hypo-mesoendemic highland regions of western Kenya, the gap between ITNownership and usage is generally high with greater usage recorded during the high transmission season. Because of the low compliance among those who own ITNs, there is a need to sensitize households on sustained use of ITNs in order to optimize their role as a malaria control tool.
Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research
Pneumonia is the leading cause of childhood illness and mortality worldwide. The number of childr... more Pneumonia is the leading cause of childhood illness and mortality worldwide. The number of children under five with pneumonia in Kisii County, Kenya, was 10% compared to the national average of 9% despite the integrated Community Case Management (iCCM) roll out. In order to identify factors associated with caregivers' access to iCCM services, a study was conducted. Materials and Methods: Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in this descriptive cross-sectional study. Purposive sampling was utilized to choose 10 informants while multistage and random sampling was applied to select 330 caregivers. Thematic content analysis and discourse analysis techniques were used to analyse qualitative data, while Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 22 was used in quantitative data. Results: Only 33.6% of caregivers accessed iCCM for childhood pneumonia services. In 49% of cases, CHVs was the first point of contact after onset of pneumonia symptoms, with only 31.2%...
African journal of empirical research, Apr 20, 2024
This study aimed to explore the interplay between socio-demographic enablers and the sustainabili... more This study aimed to explore the interplay between socio-demographic enablers and the sustainability of post-open-defecation-free status among households in Butere Sub-County, Kakamega County, Kenya. The research adopted a cross-sectional survey to assess the sustainability of the open defecation-free status at the household level, surveying 6286 certified Open Defecation Free (ODF) households through stratified random sampling. A sample size of 376 households across three wards was selected for the study. Both quantitative and qualitative data were employed; quantitative data was analysed using SPSS Version 28.1, summarized using descriptive statistics, and presented in tables, pie charts, and frequency tables, whereas qualitative data was analysed thematically. Data analysis involved three stages; univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses. Chi-square tests analysed the statistically significant association between dependent and independent variables. Binary logistic regression predicted the probability of post-ODF status (whether the ODF status was sustainable or not), and 2x2 contingency tables were used to compute the odd ratio. Results revealed that only 9% of households sustained post-ODF status. The chi-square tests revealed a significant association between respondents' gender (χ² = 0.124, p = 0.009*), age distribution (χ² = 6.471, p < 0.05), presence of children under 5 years old in the household (χ² = 1.884, p = 0.004*), level of education (χ² = 5.726, p = 0.006*), employment status (χ² = 9.602, p = 0.006*), and monthly earning brackets (χ² = 11.783, p<0.001*). However, there was no statistically significant association between marital status (χ² = 10.409, p = 0.94>0.05), household size (χ² = 1.782, p = 0.56>0.05), and the sustainability of ODF. On the other hand, the odds ratio for employment status suggests that significant association (OR=1.333; p = 0.007*<0.05; 95% CI: 1.082-1.642), where employed individuals were 1.333 times more likely to sustain ODF status. Further analysis revealed that employment status was a statistically significant predictor of post-ODF sustainability (aOR=1.837 P=0.011; 95% CI: 1.132-2.980). The study concluded that most households (91%) did not sustain post-ODF status after the ODF declaration. It was recommended that health practitioners improve door-to-door monitoring and develop post-ODF tracking tools at the household level, focusing on important parameters from Ministry of Health guidelines. The government and other Water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) stakeholders should support communities in establishing and enhancing economic empowerment programs to increase household income and encourage investments in sanitation infrastructure and hygiene promotion activities.
Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approximately 9... more Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approximately 91.2% of Kenyan men have undergone circumcision. However, male circumcision is not traditionally practiced in Turkana community with male circumcision rates ranging from 5-10%. The study's goals were to identify the influences on consensual medical male circumcision acceptance in Turkana County caused by psychological aspects. Methodology: The cross-sectional study was carried out in Loima, Turkana central and Turkana North subcounties between November 2021 to January 2022 with sample size of 434 adult men. Data was collected using both quantitative and qualitative tools. The researcher-administered survey, KII schedules, and a FGD guide. The Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 22 was used to analyze quantitative data, whereas qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The results were interpreted at 5% level of significance. Findings: Results showed that of 374 male participants in the study, 79.9% had undergone circumcision, 77.0% were aged 18-35 years, 94.1% were Christians, and 44.7% were unemployed while 54.8% were married. The overall mean scores of responses for psychosocial factors, psychosocial factors was 3.602 (positive). Psychological factors were predicted to increase uptake of VMMC by 0.99 [OR = 0.986; 95% CI: 0.745-1.228, P=0.000]. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that policies addressing main VMMC uptake amongst men in Turkana County should incorporate public participation, traditional leaders and local administrators for societal acceptance. There is need for effective sensitization and advocacy for behavioral change, mobilization and ownership of the initiative by the community.
HIV remains the most significant public health and development challenge in the world. In sub-Sah... more HIV remains the most significant public health and development challenge in the world. In sub-Saharan Africa, the youth bear the biggest brunt of HIV epidemic. Despite the availability of HIV prevention options, new infections among youth in Kenya only reduced by 59 % between 2015 and 2019. Various HIV prevention interventions have been implemented among youth with little or no assessment of their effectiveness in reducing new HIV infections. The objective of the study was to investigate effect of comprehensive HIV prevention information package on the risky sexual behavior among youth in Kakamega and Kericho counties, Kenya. A non-randomized control trial was conducted with Kakamega as intervention and Kericho as Comparison County. The pretest questionnaire was administered in both intervention and control counties in December 2001. The posttest questionnaire was administered in both intervention and control counties after nine months of providing HIV prevention information package...
Purpose: Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approx... more Purpose: Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approximately 91.2% of Kenyan men have undergone circumcision. However, male circumcision is not traditionally practiced in Turkana community with male circumcision rates ranging from 5-10%. The study's goals were to determine how socio-cultural factors, influence Voluntary male circumcision in Turkana County. Methodology: Utilizing a researcher-administered survey, KII schedules, and a FGD guide, data was gathered. 434 males made up the sample size. An analytical cross-sectional methodology was used in the investigation. The data was analyzed with SPSS 22. Results: Results showed that of 374 male participants in the study, 79.9% had undergone circumcision, 77.0% were aged 18-35 years, 94.1% were Christians, and 44.7% were unemployed while 54.8% were married. The overall mean scores of responses for socio-economic factors was 2.894 (negative). The study found that socioeconomic factors wa...
International journal of community medicine and public health/International journall of community medicine and public health, Apr 30, 2024
Background: Wetlands are known to harbor disease-causing bacteria, posing health risks that can b... more Background: Wetlands are known to harbor disease-causing bacteria, posing health risks that can be mitigated through improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices. This study aimed to understand the factors affecting nutritional status and its connection to WASH-related diseases among children under five in Ewaso Narok Wetland, Laikipia County. Methods: Using a mixed-method approach, qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Simple random method was used to identify the respondents. Results: Findings revealed that 36% of households surveyed had children with nutritional edema, with mean age, weight, and height at 21 months, 11 kilograms, and 73 centimeters respectively. Using WHO standards, a significant proportion of children were found to be undernourished at 45.3% and stunted at 41.3%. Socio-demographic factors like caregiver education level and marital status were identified as influential on the nutrition status. While 51% of households had unimproved water sources, 86% had access to toilet facilities, predominantly traditional pit latrines. 67% of the respondents were located near a wetland with a proximity ranging from 1km to 5km. Disease prevalence among children included diarrhea (46%), typhoid-related fevers (22%), and malaria (12%), with edema significantly associated with WASH diseases. Conclusions: Factors such as feces disposal, wetland proximity, protective gear use, handwashing, and toilet facilities were linked to child nutrition. Recommendations include implementing WASH programs, improving water and sanitation access, promoting hygiene practices, ensuring safe feces disposal, using protective gear in wetlands, and advocating for improved toilet facilities. Further research is warranted to assess intervention effectiveness and explore additional influencing factors.
INTRODUCTION HIV remains the most significant public health and developmental challenge in the wo... more INTRODUCTION HIV remains the most significant public health and developmental challenge in the world. In Kenya, just like the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, young people aged 15-24 years bear the biggest brunt of the HIV epidemic. Lack of comprehensive knowledge of HIV prevention, low condom use, low uptake of HIV services and having multiple sexual partners, have been associated with these trends. This study set out to determine risky sexual behaviour and associated factors among youth in Kakamega and Kericho Counties in Kenya. METHODOLOGY To achieve this, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among youth in Kakamega and Kericho counties, Kenya. Consenting young people residing in these counties were the study subjects. Data was collected through structured interviews with young people using a standard questionnaire and direct observation. The qualitative data were transcribed, translated and entered into NVivo software for coding and further analysis. The quantitative data were entered into SPSS for descriptive and inferential analysis. RESULTS Despite the youths in both counties having high comprehensive knowledge of HIV prevention at 79.3%, they still engaged in risky sexual behaviours and 60.6% were in a sexual relationship. The uptake of HIV testing was 58.4% with an HIV prevalence of 6.9%. Condom use was only 48.1% and both males and females did not reveal irritation in the genital area to partners χ 2-test showing (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION The results of this study will inform the design of an HIV prevention information package that will promote safer sexual behaviour among young people.
International Journal of Translational Medical Research and Public Health, Apr 12, 2023
Background and Objective: Poor adherence to antihypertensive medications is a major barrier to bl... more Background and Objective: Poor adherence to antihypertensive medications is a major barrier to blood pressure control among patients living with hypertension. In Kenya, a significant number of hypertensive patients have uncontrolled blood pressure, but data on medication adherence among this patient population is scarce. This study sought to determine the prevalence and correlates of medication non-adherence among hypertensive patients on follow-up in two referral hospitals in central Kenya. Methods: We undertook a cross-sectional study comprising of 339 hypertensive patients undergoing followup care in two referral hospitals located in Nyeri County between October and December 2019. Medication adherence was assessed using a validated medication adherence questionnaire. Medication adherence was a dichotomous variable (adherent vs non-adherent), with the prevalence of non-adherence being measured as a proportion. Independent predictors of medication non-adherence were identified by fitting a multiple logistic regression model, where adjusted odds ratios (AORs) were computed for various covariates and interpreted at a 5% level of significance and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The study sample largely comprised of the female gender (65.2%) and elderly people (mean age, 65 years +/-12). Nearly half (46.6%) of the hypertensive patients interviewed were non-adherent to their medications. The factors associated with non-adherence were: having poor hypertension knowledge (AOR, 5.6, 95% CI, 3.3, 9.4); being on more than one antihypertensive medication (AOR, 2.8, 95% CI, 1.7, 4.7) and being on two or more daily doses of medications (AOR, 2.3, 95% CI, 1.3, 4.1). Conclusion and Implications for Translation: Non-adherence to prescribed medications is highly prevalent among hypertensive patients in central Kenya, and it should therefore be identified as a public health concern. Strategies aimed at optimizing medication adherence among hypertensive patients in this region may consider focusing on educational interventions to increase hypertension knowledge and also on simplification of treatment regimens.
Introduction: The sprawling of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the developing world ... more Introduction: The sprawling of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the developing world provides several challenges to ensuring health and safety practices among workers in the urban poor. Purpose: The main objective of the study will be to determine the knowledge of physical hazards and the use of PPEs based demographic characteristics among welders in Embakasi constituency, Nairobi County. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among 214 welders from 72 workshops in the Embakasi region, namely in Kariobangi South Light Industries, Kayole, and Umoja. Data collection procedure entailed observation, focus group discussions, and interviews with welders in Embakasi, Nairobi. Data were analysed using SPSS version 22 and both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were conducted to explain the association between the study variables. Results: The study indicated that 90.2% of welders knew the activities at the workplace that pose health hazard...
Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies and Management, 2013
This study sought to assess the knowledge, attitude and perceptions of the residents of Kadhodeki... more This study sought to assess the knowledge, attitude and perceptions of the residents of Kadhodeki village on the health risks posed by the Kadhodeki dumpsite. Using households as units of sampling, a descriptive cross sectional survey was carried out in June 2012. Random data were collected using a face-to-face researcher administered structured questionnaire and 323 participants were interviewed. Chi square was used to determine the association between the different variables. Findings indicate that residents possess a significantly low knowledge and a positive attitude (χ2 (1) = 224.03, p < 0.01; χ2 (1) = 8.697, p < 0.01) towards the Kadhodeki dumpsite. They were however no differences in risk perceptions. Participant's age, duration one had lived in the village and their level of education, were proxy measures of knowledge, attitude and perception. Odds ratio analysis indicates that age and duration did not influence participant's knowledge, attitude or perceptions. Rudimentary however, education accounted for a non significant 28% variation in respondents' attitude towards the health risks of the dumpsite (OR= 1.282; CI 0.828-1.997). Also adequate education significantly accounted for 67% variation in respondents' health risk perception (OR= 1.671; CI 1.304-2.140). This study would recommend that the ministry of Health come up with health education programmes for the general population on the dangers of uncontrolled waste disposal sites.
Insecticide treated nets (ITNs) have been identified as a key strategy in addressing malaria prob... more Insecticide treated nets (ITNs) have been identified as a key strategy in addressing malaria problem among young children and pregnant women. Their utilisation among under fives, however, have been found to be low in some areas.
Vaccination has been shown to be one of the most cost-effective health interventions worldwide. D... more Vaccination has been shown to be one of the most cost-effective health interventions worldwide. Despite the efforts made towards global immunization coverage, the number of unvaccinated and under-vaccinated infants is still high. The situation is no different in Kenya. Basic vaccination coverage reduced from 77% in 2008 to 70% in 2017. National basic vaccination coverage of 70% is significantly lower than the global target of 90% by the year 2020. There are gaping regional differences in immunization coverage. The lowest national immunization coverage is documented at 31% in West Pokot County. This study sought to identify the determinants of vaccination coverage among children between 12-23 months of age in West Pokot County. The study used a community-based cross-sectional design where mothers/guardians of children between 12-23 months old were randomly sampled. The objectives of the study were to estimate the immunization coverage, investigate factors influencing immunization cov...
The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the factors that influence the use of Insect... more The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the factors that influence the use of Insecticide Treated Bed-Nets (ITNs) by women for malaria control in Ndavaya and Kinango Divisions of Kinango District of Kenya. A cross-sectional survey design using systematic sampling technique was applied to collect data from 204 women selected randomly from the two divisions. Semi structured questionnaire, Key Informant Interview and Focused Group Discussion were the instruments used to gather data. Data on variables such as age, educational level, incomes and source of nets were summarized using graphs. Chi-square test was applied to test whether the deviations observed were as a result of chance or due to other factors. Results indicated among others that the use of ITNs increased with the level of education and income. The government therefore should develop a communication package for malaria endemic areas, encourage further research to establish the factors that influence use of ITNs ...
HIV/AIDS is a global health problem whose emergence has introduced new dimensions to health care ... more HIV/AIDS is a global health problem whose emergence has introduced new dimensions to health care delivery worldwide including Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT). Despite its proven benefits, high knowledge of VCT and its availability, its uptake is varied and often poor. It is commonly argued that teachers in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries have relatively high HIV prevalence rates than the general population. AIDS is claiming teachers more quickly than they can be trained in many countries and is the leading cause of death among teachers in the SSA countries. To identify determinants of HIV-VCT uptake amongst secondary schools teachers. A cross-sectional survey involving 246 secondary school teachers randomly selected in Thika district, central Kenya. HIV-VCT utilization among secondary school teachers was 30.5%. The younger and less experienced teachers were more likely to utilize HIV-VCT services than the older and more experienced ones (Likelihood ratio, P = 0.004). Pri...
International Journal Of Community Medicine And Public Health
Background: Non-adherence to medication is documented in the literature as a major barrier to blo... more Background: Non-adherence to medication is documented in the literature as a major barrier to blood pressure control among patients on treatment for hypertension. This study sought to evaluate the potential effectiveness of a mHealth intervention in supporting medication adherence among hypertensive patients on follow up. Methods: We undertook a single blind parallel randomized controlled trial among hypertensive patients undergoing follow up care in Nyeri County Referral Hospital between January and December, 2020. The trial comprised of two arms, with a total of 120 patients randomized on a 1:1 ratio. Patients in the experimental group were put on an educational health intervention comprising of mobile phone delivered SMS messages and interactive voice calls. Patients in the control group were continued on the usual care offered in the hospital’s medical outpatient clinic. The primary endpoint was medication adherence. Data was analyzed through the intention to treat approach at 5...
Background: Insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) are known to be highly effective in reducing mala... more Background: Insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) are known to be highly effective in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality. However, usage varies among households, and such variations in actual usage may seriously limit the potential impact of nets and cause spatial heterogeneity on malaria transmission. This study examined ITN ownership and underlying factors for among-household variation in use, and malaria transmission in two highland regions of western Kenya. Methods: Cross-sectional surveys were conducted on ITN ownership (possession), compliance (actual usage among those who own ITNs), and malaria infections in occupants of randomly sampled houses in the dry and the rainy seasons of 2009. Results: Despite ITN ownership reaching more than 71%, compliance was low at 56.3%. The compliance rate was significantly higher during the rainy season compared with the dry season (62% vs. 49.6%). Both malaria parasite prevalence (11.8% vs. 5.1%) and vector densities (1.0 vs.0.4 female/house/night) were significantly higher during the rainy season than during the dry season. Other important factors affecting the use of ITNs include: a household education level of at least primary school level, significantly high numbers of nuisance mosquitoes, and low indoor temperatures. Malaria prevalence in the rainy season was about 30% lower in ITN users than in non-ITN users, but this percentage was not significantly different during the dry season. Conclusion: In malaria hypo-mesoendemic highland regions of western Kenya, the gap between ITNownership and usage is generally high with greater usage recorded during the high transmission season. Because of the low compliance among those who own ITNs, there is a need to sensitize households on sustained use of ITNs in order to optimize their role as a malaria control tool.
Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research
Pneumonia is the leading cause of childhood illness and mortality worldwide. The number of childr... more Pneumonia is the leading cause of childhood illness and mortality worldwide. The number of children under five with pneumonia in Kisii County, Kenya, was 10% compared to the national average of 9% despite the integrated Community Case Management (iCCM) roll out. In order to identify factors associated with caregivers' access to iCCM services, a study was conducted. Materials and Methods: Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in this descriptive cross-sectional study. Purposive sampling was utilized to choose 10 informants while multistage and random sampling was applied to select 330 caregivers. Thematic content analysis and discourse analysis techniques were used to analyse qualitative data, while Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 22 was used in quantitative data. Results: Only 33.6% of caregivers accessed iCCM for childhood pneumonia services. In 49% of cases, CHVs was the first point of contact after onset of pneumonia symptoms, with only 31.2%...
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Papers by isaac mwanzo