Explore the vast range of titles available.

Background Globally malaria remains one of the high burden diseases particularly in developing countries. Ethiopia is one of the sub-Saharan countries highly endemic to malaria. Although, recently the burden of malaria was reduced remarkably through public health interventions designed during the Millennium Development Goals, it is still a major public health problem in Ethiopia. Hence, measuring the burden of the disease and assessing the trend is very important for monitoring the extent and changes over a period of time. Objective This study aimed to assess the burden of malaria in terms of death and Disability-Adjusted Life Years lost (DALY) between 2000 and 2016. Methods The research used data from Global Health Estimate 2016; that originally collected the information through vital registration, verbal autopsy, surveys, reports, published scientific articles, Global Burden of Disease study (GBD 2016) and modeling. Results In 2016 there were an estimated 2,927,266 (95% CI, 525,000-6,983,000) new malaria cases in Ethiopia. It caused an estimated 4,782 deaths (95% CI 122.5–12,750) with a crude death rate of 4.7/100,000 and Age-standardized death rate (ASDR) of 4.9/100,000 population. However, the number of deaths due to malaria declined by 54% from the 2000’s record of 10,412 deaths (95% CI 98.8–16180) within 16 years and ASDR declined by 63% from the 2000 record. In the same year, DALY due to malaria was 365,900 years (187,000 years among male and 178,900 years among females). It contributed for 0.78% of the total DALY in Ethiopia and 1% of the global DALY due to malaria. Around 332,100 life years (YLL) were lost and 35,200 years were lived with disability (YLD) due to malaria. Mortality and DALY related to malaria is slightly higher among males; and under 5 children are highly affected. Conclusion and recommendation Although, the burden of malaria is remarkably declining in Ethiopia; with a higher level of mortality and DALY, it still remained one of the public health problems. Therefore, strengthening the existing malaria prevention program is important to eliminate the disease within the target period.

Low back pain(LBP) is the most common musculoskeletal disorder in adults. According to previous studies medical students were found vulnerable for the development of LBP. We assessed the prevalence of LBP and associated factors among Medical students in Wachemo University, Southern Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional study design and simple random sampling technique was employed to select 370 medical students. A structured pretested interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The data were entered into Epi-info version 3.1 and analysed by SPSS version 25. Analytical and descriptive statistics were conducted. Simple and multiple logistic regression analyses were employed to assess factors associated with LBP. Variables at p-value ≤ 0.25 in simple logistic regression analysis were entered into multiple logistic regression. Statistical significance was declared at P-value, < 0.05 in multiple logistic analysis. The prevalence of low back pain among medical students was found to be 40.1%with 95% CI (38.5–41.8). Being male students [AOR (95% CI): 1.83 (1.09–3.08)], design of study sitting chairs without back support [adjusted odds ratio(AOR) (95% C.I): 2.81 (1.74–4.55)], stress during class [AOR (95% C.I): 2.60 (1.56–4.35)], and daily study hours greater than 6 h and above [AOR: 4.33, 95% CI (2.30–8.12)] had a significant association with LBP. The prevalence of LBP in this study is high. Better ergonomic facilities and psychosocial supports to medical students are recommended to reduce the effects of predisposing factors on LBP.

Background Cervical cancer is a preventable disease. However, it remains the commonest and deadly cancer in women worldwide. Health care seeking behaviour is not well studied in Ethiopia even though it is crucial in averting cervical cancer by maximizing cervical cancer screening utilization. Therefore, this study amid to assess health care seeking behaviour towards cervical cancer screening and its associated factors among women aged 30–49 years in Arba Minch town, Southern Ethiopia, 2023. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted on 414 women who are in the age range of 30–49 in Arba Minch town from January 2-February20, 2023. Study participants were selected by a simple random sampling technique from all kebeles and data were collected using pretested interviewer administered questionnaires. SPSS version 27 was used to conduct binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis. Socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents were described using descriptive statistics. Furthermore, binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were made to find the factors associated with health care seeking behaviour. Variables with a p -value less than 0.25 on binary logistic regression were selected for multivariable logistic regression. Variables with a p -value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The reliability and internal consistency of the constructs of health belief model were calculated independently using Cronbach’s alpha. Result The prevalence of health care seeking behaviour towards cervical cancer screening was 197(47.6%) [95%CI: 42.7-52.5%]. Respondents’ good knowledge [AOR = 1.55, 95%CI: 1.01–2.39], positive perceived susceptibility [AOR = 3.63, 95%CI: 2.06–6.42], positive perceived severity [AOR = 2.65, 95%CI: 1.71–4.09], positive perceived benefits [AOR = 4.85, 95%CI: 2.92–7.87] were significantly associated with health seeking behaviour. Conclusion The prevalence of health care seeking behaviour towards cervical cancer screening is low in this study. To maximize the health care seeking behavior of women, further acting on perceived susceptibility, respondents’ knowledge, perceived severity, and perceived benefit of the woman are crucial.

Pregnancy complications can’t always be predicted. However, pregnant women must be aware of these pregnancy complications to avoid serious complications and begin treatment as soon as possible. Maternal mortality can be decreased by offering high-quality maternity services and educating women about the early warning signs of pregnancy. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess individual and community-level factors associated with women’s knowledge about pregnancy complications in Ethiopia based on the 2019 Ethiopian mini-demographic health survey data (EMDHS). The study analyzed data from the 2019 EMDHS, including a weighted sample of 1,655 reproductive-age women. Multilevel binary logistic regression analysis was used to fit the associated variables. Using the interclass correlation (ICC), deviance, proportional change variance (PVC), and median odds ratio (MOR), the comparison and fit of the models were evaluated. The significant variables associated with knowledge about complications during pregnancy were identified using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and a 95% confidence interval (CI). The proportion of mothers with good knowledge of pregnancy complications was 44.8% (CI 42.4%–47.2%). The multi-level analysis revealed that secondary education (AOR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.04–2.29), a higher education level (AOR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.11–2.72), four and above ANC Visits (AOR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.49–0.98), women who lived in Amhara (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.24–3.55), and SNNPR (AOR = 3.92, 95% CI = 2.10–7.31) were positively associated with knowledge about pregnancy complications while, women residing in Harari (AOR = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.98–0.44) and Dire-Dawa (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.24–0.95) were negatively associated with knowledge about pregnancy complications. This study found that nearly half (44.8%) of the study participants demonstrated knowledge about pregnancy complications. This suggests a significant gap in awareness that could potentially impact access to obstetric care for women experiencing complications during pregnancy. Therefore, prioritizing enhancements in antenatal counseling services and community health education regarding pregnancy complications is crucial.

Preventive chemotherapy (PC), the main strategy recommended by the World Health Organization to eliminate soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and schistosomiasis (SCH), should be strengthened through identification of the remaining SCH transmission foci and evaluating its impact to get a lesson. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of STH/SCH infections, the intensity of infections, and factors associated with STH infection among school-aged children (SAC) in Uba Debretsehay and Dara Mallo districts (previously not known to be endemic for SCH) in southern Ethiopia, October to December 2019. Structured interview questionnaire was used to collect household data, anthropometric measurements were taken and stool samples collected from 2079 children were diagnosed using the Kato-Katz technique. Generalize mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to assess the association of STH infections with potential predictors. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni in the Dara Mallo district was 34.3% (95%CI 30.9–37.9%). Light, moderate, and heavy S. mansoni infections were 15.2%, 10.9%, and 8.2% respectively. The overall prevalence of any STH infection was 33.2% with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 31.1–35.3%. The intensity of infections was light (20.9%, 11.3% & 5.3%), moderate (1.1%, 0.1% & 0.4%) and heavy (0.3%, 0% & 0%) for hookworm, whipworm and roundworms respectively. The overall moderate-to-heavy intensity of infection among the total diagnosed children was 2% (41/2079). STH infection was higher among male SAC with Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) of 1.7 (95%CI 1.4–2.1); occupation of the household head other than farmer or housewife (AOR = 0.5; 95%CI 0.3–0.8), middle [AOR = 1.1; 95%CI 1.0–1.3] or high [AOR = 0.7; 95%CI 0.5–0.9] socioeconomic status. Dara Mallo district was moderate endemic for S. mansoni ; and it needs sub-district level mapping and initiating a deworming campaign. Both districts remained moderate endemic for STH. Evidence-based strategies supplementing existing interventions with the main focus of the identified factors is important to realize the set targets.

Background Novel coronavirus is a global pandemic and killed many individuals, including health care professionals. It caused stress on the health care system of all countries. Presently, studies are emerging regarding the COVID-19 pandemic in different aspects. However, a few have explored barriers that affecting the practice of preventive measures for the COVID-19. As such, the study aimed to fill these research gaps in the study setting. Methods A semi-structured interview guide was used to conduct this phenomenological study among 16 key informants. Key informants were recruited by the purposive sampling method. To analyze that data, thematic content analysis was employed by using an inductive approach in NVivo 12 Pro software. Results In this study, six main themes were identified with the sub-themes. Overview of COVID-19 pandemic (with the six sub-themes), consequences (with the two sub-themes), perceived practice (with four sub-themes), perceived barriers (with four sub-themes), newfangled activities (with three sub-themes), and suggestion for improvement (with seven sub-themes) were the major themes. The participants perceived the influence of shortage of personal protective equipment and solutions for hand hygiene, negligence and ignorance, inadequate infrastructure, lack of training, and lack of attention and recognition for the staff on the practice of preventive measures. Conclusions This study showed a gap in preventive measure practices for the COVID-19 in the health care system. Community influences, health care provider related barriers, institutional barriers, and lack of communication and support affect the practice. Hence, attention should give to fulfill the necessary supplies in the health facilities, improve the infrastructures, and equip health professionals by providing capacity-building activities. Besides, health care workers must recognize, and attention is needed.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) poses a major public health concern in Ethiopia, with lesions and scars commonly affecting exposed body parts, resulting in physical, social, and psychological consequences. This study aims to assess the psychosocial impacts of CL, shedding light on the experiences and perceptions of affected individuals, thus contributing to the knowledge on Cutaneous leishmaniasis in Ethiopia and informing public health interventions to address its psychosocial effects. Using a descriptive phenomenological design, the study explored the lived experiences of individuals with Cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions and scars. Participants were purposively selected, and data was collected through open-ended in-depth interviews. The analysis combined inductive and deductive approaches through an iterative process, developing a coding framework with seven themes (lesion & CL scar each) and subthemes, resulting in giving important insights in the psychosocial impacts of CL. NVivo 12v supported the analysis process. The study unveiled negative views and misconceptions surrounding CL and its impact. Application of traditional herbal medicine for CL lesions often leads to pus formation and a foul odour, triggering negative attitudes from others, resulting in embarrassment, pain, and anxiety, leading to discomfort and isolation. The negative psychosocial attitudes associated with CL scars deeply impacted affected individuals, influencing their behaviour. This included isolation and absenteeism from school. CL scars served as unique identifiers, shaping the affected individuals' identity and self-perception. The unreceptive environment affected the participant's self-esteem and coping mechanisms. The negative impact of CL scars extended to role performance, marriage prospects, and overall happiness, particularly for females facing additional societal pressure and stigma. The study highlights the need for improved education and awareness about CL to reduce misconceptions and negative attitudes towards affected individuals. Additionally, more effective treatment options and integrated preventive ways should be explored to minimize the physical and psychological impact of CL on affected individuals.

Postnatal care services are a constellation of preventive care, practices, and assessments designed to identify and manage maternal and newborn complications during the first six weeks after birth. Recognizing the role of the appropriate PNC at this critical time, the World Health Organization recommended four visits as a complete PNC for all post-partum mothers and newborns to ensure their survival. Although there have been numerous studies on the factors affecting the general PNC service in Ethiopia, there is a shortage of evidence on the use of complete postnatal care services and its determinants. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the uptake of full postnatal care service and its determinants among women who recently gave birth in the Ezha district of southern Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Ezha district. A two-stage sampling technique was applied. A total of 568 mothers who stayed for at least 6 weeks after childbirth from selected Kebeles were included in the study using computer-generated random numbers. Data collected through pre-established, structured, and interviewer-administered questionnaires were entered into EpiData3.1 and exported to SPPS version 23 for analysis. The Principal Components Analysis (PCA) was carried out to assess the wealth status of participants. The Multivariable logistic regression model has been fitted to identify the determinants of complete post-natal care service uptake. The overall uptake of complete postnatal care services in the study area was 23.9% [95% CI: (19.9, 27.5)]. The factors namely; maternal education of secondary and above [AOR: 4.31, 95%CI: 2.15, 8.05], having four and more antenatal visits [AOR: 4.03, 95%CI: 1.83, 8.85], Caesarean delivery [AOR: 3.75, 95%CI: 1.78, 7.92], having good knowledge on PNC [AOR: 4.31, 95%CI: 2.34, 9.04], and being a model household [AOR: 3.61, 95%CI: 1.97, 6.64] were recognized as determinants complete postnatal care uptake. Complete post-natal care services uptake in the study area was low. Thus, a due emphasis should be given to behavioral change communication activities to improve maternal knowledge on PNC and enhancing adequate ANC uptake by health workers in the district. Besides, health extension workers in the district need to work on creating a model household through continuing education, support, and follow-up.

Introduction The emergence of MDR-TB remained a major public health threat particularly in developing countries. With increased prevalence and complexity of treatment, the burden of MDR-TB challenged the country. It is of an important; the epidemiology of drug resistant TB is not well understood. There are few studies conducted to assess the prevalence, determinants and treatment outcome of MDR-TB with inconclusive finding. Therefore, we aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on Epidemiology of MDR-TB in Ethiopia, So that policy makers and other stalk holders could have pooled evidence on the problem to make a decision. Methods The review was conducted through a systematic literature search of articles published between 1997 and 2017. Five bibliographic databases and libraries: PubMed/Medline, Global Health Database, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and African Index Medicus were used. After cleaning and sorting, analysis was performed using STATA version 11. The pooled rate of MDR-TB prevalence, determinants and treatment outcome was estimated with a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed by the I 2 and publication bias through funnel plot. Results The 34 studies that were retained for final analysis enrolled a total of 7461 TB or MDR-TB patients. We found that 2.18% (95% CI 1.44–2.92%) of newly diagnosed and 21.07% (95% CI 11.47–30.67%) of previously treated patients have MDR-TB with overall prevalence of 7.24% (95% CI 6.11–8.37). History of previous treatment is the major determinant (pooled OR = 4.78 (95% CI 3.16–6.39)), while contact history and adherence also contributed. In this review the pooled death computed among 5 articles showed that 12.25% (95% CI 9.39–15.11%) of MDR-TB patients were died in the course of treatment. Complication, drug side effects and HIV infection were the main determinants for the death. Conclusion and recommendation The prevalence is by far higher than the previous reports. It is mainly associated with history of previous treatment along with contact history. However, the treatment outcomes are comparable with previous studies, yet it is a concern. Comorbidities, drug side effects and HIV sero-positivity were the determinants. Thus, proper treatment of drug susceptible TB and early detection and treatment of MDR-TB before complication develops along with prevention of drug side effect and contacts with MDR-TB cases are very important.

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease, which caused by a novel coronavirus. The disease disrupts health systems and resulting in social, political, and economic crises. Health professionals are in front of this pandemic and always work in a high-risk environment. The best prevention for COVID-19 is avoiding exposure to the virus. Some studies reported health professional's practice of precautionary measures for COVID-19. Nevertheless, a few have identified factors affecting. As such, this study aimed to fill those research gaps in the study setting. In this cross-sectional study, 428 health professionals involved from the public health facilities of the Gamo zone, southern Ethiopia. A simple random sampling method employed, and the data collected by the interviewer-administered Open Data Kit survey tool and observational checklist. The data analyzed in Stata version 15, and a binary logistic regression model used to identify factors. In this study, a statistically significant association declared at P< 0.05. In this study, 35.3% (95%CI: 30.7%, 39.8%) of health professionals' had a good practice on precautionary measures for the COVID-19 pandemic. Use hand sanitizer or wash hands continuously with soap and water (68.9%), cover nose and mouth with a tissue during sneezing or coughing (67.3%), and use facemask in crowds (56.8%) were the most common practice reported by study participants. Marital status, being married (AOR = 1.84, 95%CI: 1.06, 3.18), good knowledge on the COVID-19 pandemic (AOR = 2.02, 95%CI: 1.02, 3.18), and positive attitude towards precautionary measures for the COVID-19 were factors showed significant association with the practice. The magnitude of good practice of precautionary measures for the COVID-19 pandemic among health professionals was low. As such, different interventions to improve the knowledge and attitude of health professionals in the health care system are highly needed to boost the practice and to advance service delivery.