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Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices Among Mothers of Infants [0-6 Months] Attending Immunization Clinic in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State Chinyere, Dim Lilian; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v2i1.4592

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months of life is essential for an infant's optimal growth, immunity, and development. However, global adherence remains inadequate, particularly in developing regions. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing EBF practices among mothers of infants aged 0-6 months attending the immunization clinic at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) in Rivers State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional approach, data were gathered from 382 mothers through structured questionnaires. Analysis was done using Pearson correlation and chi-square tests. The findings showed that social support from healthcare providers, family and breastfeeding support groups played a crucial role in encouraging EBF. A substantial portion of mothers (47.1%) receive help with breastfeeding decisions from healthcare providers, followed by 39.3% from husbands or relatives and 13.6% from friends. Encouragement from husbands or family members plays a crucial role, with 83.8% of mothers reporting support in this regard. Additionally, 26.2% of mothers participate in breastfeeding support groups, and 75.9% of healthcare providers discuss the benefits of breastfeeding with them, further supporting their decisions. A notable 68.1% of healthcare providers assist with the initiation of breastfeeding, and 39.3% receive post-discharge breastfeeding support. The influence of healthcare providers in the decision to exclusive breastfeeding is significant, with 47.1% attributing their decision to this guidance. The findings show that significant correlations were observed between breastfeeding education and antenatal clinic attendance (r = 0.33, p < 0.001), as well as between belief in breastfeeding benefits and the number of antenatal visits (r = 0.22, sp < 0.01). The findings show that attending antenatal clinics, receiving breastfeeding education, and strong belief in the benefits of breastfeeding were positively associated with the practice of EBF. Additionally, factors like the place of delivery, mode of delivery, and home delivery supervisor also played a significant role in determining exclusive breastfeeding practices. Logistic regression analysis further highlighted that maternal education, healthcare support, and socioeconomic factors were key predictors of EBF practices. Conclusively, this study highlights the importance of social support, breastfeeding education, and healthcare provider encouragement in promoting EBF practices. Targeted interventions that focus on enhancing breastfeeding education during antenatal visits and addressing cultural and healthcare-related barriers are recommended to improve EBF rates among mothers attending UPTH and in Rivers State.

Prevalence of Hepatitis D Virus Co-Infection among HBsAg-Positive Patients in Abakaliki Metropolis, Ebonyi State, Nigeria Azibanyam, Okosigha Saviour; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Vivian, Anyiam Ifeoma
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v2i3.7484

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus that requires co-infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) for replication and expression. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HDV co-infection among HBsAg-positive patients in Abakaliki Metropolis, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed, involving 1,000 patients who presented at the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (FETHA) and Mile 4 Hospital Ishieke during the study period. Screening for HBV infection was conducted using the Skytec one-step rapid diagnostic kit, identifying 89 (8.9%) HBsAg-positive individuals. Subsequently, anti-HDV IgM serology testing was performed using ELISA on serum samples from HBsAg-positive patients to detect HDV co-infection. HDV IgM antibodies were detected in 5 (5.6%) of the HBsAg-positive patients—four pregnant women and one blood donor. Age-specific HBsAg prevalence was highest in the 24–28-year age group (13.5%), followed by 19–23 years (9.4%) and 29–33 years (4.0%). Married individuals exhibited a higher prevalence (16.6%) than singles (4.8%). Educational level was also associated with prevalence, with tertiary education holders showing the highest rate (20.0%) compared to those with primary education (4.8%). Based on occupation, the highest HBsAg prevalence was recorded among housewives (25.0%), followed by traders (14.7%), students (9.4%), and civil servants (4.3%). The presence of HDV co-infection highlights its potential to exacerbate the clinical course of HBV infection. The study recommends routine HDV screening among HBsAg-positive patients for early detection and clinical management. Additionally, public health interventions should include RNA-based diagnostic tools, increased awareness of HBV/HDV risks in high-risk populations, and integrated care strategies tailored to region-specific epidemiological patterns in Nigeria.

Determination of Antagonistic Effects of Sludge and Urine-Associated Bacteria against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Ngozi, Opara Christiana; Samson, Efere Yarwadum
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v3i1.8284

Abattoirs, due to their very many activities, is a source of microbial diversity, many of which are able to prevent the growth of other closely related bacteria. Hence, this work was carried out to isolate and identify bacteria from sludge and urine, and evaluate their antagonistic effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The antagonistic effects of bacterial pathogens from abattoir sludge against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The culture and identification of bacteria from abattoir sludge was done using standard microbiological techniques and the bacterial antagonism assay was done using the overlay method. From the abattoir sludge, Bacillus species (37.5%) was the most prevalent, followed by Shigella species (12.5%), Escherichia coli (12.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (12.5%), Proteus species (12.5%), and Klebsieilla. species (12.5%). The bacterial isolates were most resistant to Ciprofloxacin, Cefotaxime, Cefuroxime, Imipenem and most sensitive to Nitrofurantoin, Nalixidic Acid, Gentamicin, Erythromycin, Ofloxacin, AZN. From the study, none of these abattoir sludge-associated bacteria showed antagonistic effect against Staphylococcus aureus and against Escherichia coli. This study demonstrates the antagonistic potential of sludge and urine-associated bacteria against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The identified isolates, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis, exhibited significant inhibitory activity, suggesting their potential as sources of novel antimicrobial compounds. These findings highlight the importance of exploring environmental and human-associated microbiota for bioactive molecules that could address the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance.

Urinary Tract Infection in Pregnancy: Bacterial Profile, Antibiogram, Electrolytes and Risk Factors in Otuoke and Environs, Bayelsa State, Nigeria Sam, Buta Tarimotimi; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Samson, Efere Y.; Usodo, Elkanah Edet; Etiefa, Otumbere
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v3i2.9086

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) remain a major health concern during pregnancy due to their potential complications for both mother and fetus, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study investigated the bacterial etiology, antibiotic susceptibility patterns, cytokine responses, electrolyte alterations, and risk factors associated with UTIs among pregnant women in Otuoke and Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A total of 300 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in selected hospitals were screened for UTIs, excluding those on antibiotic therapy. Urine, serum, and cerebrospinal fluid samples were processed using standard microbiological and serological techniques, bacterial isolates were identified and subjected to antibiogram testing, and interleukin-10 (IL-10) and electrolyte profiles were measured. Multivariate analysis was used to assess sociodemographic and clinical risk factors. The prevalence of UTI was 18.7% (56/300). Escherichia coli was the predominant pathogen (8.7%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (2.7%), coagulase-negative staphylococci (2.7%), Proteus spp. (2.0%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (1.4%), Citrobacter spp. (1.0%), and Streptococcus spp. (0.3%). High levels of resistance were observed to ampicillin, gentamicin, and ceftriaxone, whereas ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, nitrofurantoin, and cotrimoxazole remained effective against most isolates. IL-10 concentrations increased significantly with UTI severity, indicating an enhanced immunological response. Infected participants showed significant alterations in electrolyte and biochemical parameters, including elevated serum urea, creatinine, and proteinuria compared with controls (p < 0.05), with proteinuria demonstrating notable statistical significance (χ² = 13.39, p < 0.05); severe infections were associated with greater disturbances in sodium and potassium balance. Multiparity, low socioeconomic status, and limited educational attainment emerged as significant predictors of UTI occurrence. This study highlights a substantial burden of UTIs among pregnant women in the study area, accompanied by rising antibiotic resistance, and suggests that cytokines—particularly IL-10—and electrolyte abnormalities may serve as useful biomarkers in the immunopathology and diagnosis of UTIs during pregnancy. Routine screening, rational antibiotic use, and targeted health education are essential to reduce the incidence and complications of UTIs in this population.

Prevalence of Group B Streptococcus among Individuals in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, South South, Nigeria Patrick, Edafe Ejiro; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Ifeoma, Anyiam Vivian; Akpomedaye, Salvage
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 1 No 1 (2024): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v1i1.4036

Streptococcus agalactiae also known as Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a Gram-positive bacterium that primarily colonizes the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of humans. While it is a commensal organism in many healthy individuals, GBS can become pathogenic, causing a variety of infections. This study investigated the prevalence of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization among adults in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, to assess the distribution of GBS across various age groups and between sexes. A total of 185 individuals were included in the study which comprises of both male and female across different age groups (16–35 years). The specimens were cultured on Todd-Hewitt broth and Columbia Blood Agar. Morphological and biochemical tests, including Gram staining, CAMP test, and Hippurate Hydrolysis test, were performed to confirm the presence of GBS.Morphological analysis revealed small to medium-sized, grayish-white, beta-hemolytic colonies with characteristic cocci in pairs or chains, confirming Streptococcus agalactiae. The overall prevalence of GBS colonization was found to be 5.95%, with 5.17% in males and 6.30% in females. The highest prevalence was observed in the age group 31–35 years among females (16.00%) and in the 26–30 age group among males (9.09%). This study result provides essential baseline data on GBS prevalence among individuals in Yenagoa, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and targeted interventions in this area to reduce the risk of GBS transmission.

Responsiveness and Acceptability for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine Among Parents of Adolescent Girls in Port Harcourt City, Rivers State Ugochi N, Bright-Okere; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i1.4536

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infections and cervical cancer in Nigeria is of high prevalence. Despite this, the acceptance and utilization of the HPV vaccine which has a high effective preventive measure remain low. The aim of the study was to examine the responsiveness and acceptability of the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine among parents of adolescent girls in Rivers State, particularly Port Harcourt City. A descriptive cross-sectional study was adopted for this study. A multi-stage sampling method was used for recruiting a total of three hundred and fifty-seven (357) parents with one hundred and eighty (180) males and one hundred and seventy-seven (177) females used in the study across different age groups (21–60) years for the investigation. The results data obtained using an interviewer based semi-structured questionnaire and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29 was used in the data analysis. The findings disclosed varying degrees of awareness and understanding of HPV, cervical cancer, and the HPV vaccine, with healthcare providers being the primary source of information 120 (33.6%). Cultural beliefs and religious factors significantly affect vaccine acceptance by 180 (50.4%) and 120 (36.4%) respectively. In terms of Responses on attitude and perceptions regarding safety and efficacy of HPV vaccine, 210 (58.8%) are aware and ready to accept the vaccine, 70 (19.6%) are not ready to take the vaccine while 77 (21.6%) are not sure if they are ready to accept the vaccine. Barriers like cost and accessibility also influence willingness to vaccinate, as findings showed majority of the participants feel the high cost, location and availability of the vaccines is an issue. Statistically, a positive and statistically significant correlation (r = 0.230, p < 0.01) was found between cultural beliefs in the community and the likelihood of vaccinating daughters if religious leaders encourage it. On the other hand, the correlation between cultural beliefs and perceived affordability of the HPV vaccine were negative (r = -0.115, p < 0.05), indicating that parents who consider cultural beliefs in their decision-making may also perceive the vaccine as less affordable, potentially limiting access for financially constrained families. Similarly, there is a positive correlation between the likelihood of vaccinating if religious leaders encourage it and the perceived affordability of the vaccine (r = 0.187, p < 0.01). This suggests that religious influence may reduce the perceived financial barrier, perhaps by increasing the perceived importance of vaccination among parents. Interestingly, the perceived affordability of the vaccine is also negatively correlated with refraining from healthcare services This study in all, revealed important influences between socio-cultural, economic, and service delivery elements in shaping vaccine uptake and emphasizes the need for enhanced education, reduced logistical obstacles, and a focus on addressing cultural concerns to improve both acceptability and accessibility of the HPV vaccine in the study area. Also, the result provides essential baseline data on HPV prevalence among individuals in Port Harcourt City, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and targeted interventions in this area to reduce the risk of HPV transmission.

Menstrual Hygiene Management Among Adolescent Girls in Selected Secondary Schools in Ahoada, Rivers State Afoma, Onyenanu Obiageli; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i2.6066

Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is a critical public health and educational issue affecting adolescent girls, particularly in low-resource settings. In Ahoada, Rivers State, Nigeria, many adolescent girls face significant challenges in managing menstruation due to limited access to sanitary products, inadequate sanitation facilities, and insufficient knowledge about menstrual health. These challenges contribute to adverse outcomes such as poor self-esteem, emotional distress, increased absenteeism, and diminished academic performance. This study investigated MHM practices among adolescent girls in selected secondary schools in Ahoada, aiming to provide evidence to inform policy and programmatic interventions. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and data were collected from 300 adolescent girls using a structured questionnaire. The findings revealed that 73% of respondents lacked access to sanitary pads, 60% reported missing school during menstruation, and 67% experienced menstrual-related stigma. Emotional distress or anxiety during menstruation was reported by 70% of participants, while 63% indicated that menstruation negatively impacted their academic performance. Additionally, 27% of the respondents demonstrated inadequate knowledge of menstrual hygiene. The study highlights the pressing need for comprehensive, school-based interventions, including menstrual hygiene education, improved water and sanitation infrastructure, and access to affordable sanitary products. These findings contribute to the limited body of literature on MHM in Rivers State and underscore the importance of addressing menstrual health to support adolescent girls' well-being and educational attainment.

Hepatitis B and D Virus Co-Infection: A Study of Seroprevalence and IgM Response among Patients in Abakaliki Metropolis, Ebonyi State, Nigeria Azibanyam, Okosigha Saviour; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Ifeoma, Anyiam Vivian
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7485

Hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver commonly caused by viral infections, exists in five primary forms: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Among these, Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a defective virus that requires co-infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) for replication. Hepatitis may present as acute or chronic, and early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications. This study investigated the seroprevalence of HBV and HDV co-infection among patients in Abakaliki Metropolis, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed, involving 1,000 patients who attended the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (FETHA) and Mile 4 Hospital Ishieke. Serological testing was conducted using ELISA kits in accordance with the manufacturer’s protocols and standard laboratory procedures. Of the 1,000 participants, 89 (8.9%) tested positive for HBsAg, indicating HBV infection, while 5 (5.6%) of these were also positive for HDV-IgM, confirming co-infection. The prevalence of HBV/HDV co-infection was higher among females (7.7%) compared to males (2.7%) and more pronounced among married individuals (6.9%) than singles (3.2%). These findings indicate a notable burden of HBV and HDV co-infection in the study area. The results underscore the importance of routine HDV screening for all HBsAg-positive patients and the implementation of targeted public health interventions to prevent HDV transmission and reduce the severity of HBV-related disease.

Diarrhoea among Children under Five Years Old in Relation to Household Safe Storage Practices in Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Hassan, Boyi; Ngozi, Opara Christiana; Samson, Efere Yarwadum
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.8285

Diarrhoea remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among under‑five children in Nigeria, particularly in rural settings where unsafe water handling and inadequate storage prevail. Diarrhea is defined as the passing of three or more watery or loose stools per day, or more frequent passage than normal for an individual. This cross‑sectional study assessed the determinants of diarrhoea in relation to household water practices in Wukari Local Government Area (LGA), Taraba State. The aim was to identify water‑related risk factors—source type, treatment method, storage container, and hygiene behaviours—that influence diarrhoeal occurrence among children <5 years. A community‑based survey was conducted across randomly selected areas of Wukari LGA. Structured questionnaires captured socio‑demographics, water source (protected well, borehole, surface, sachet), treatment (boiling, chlorination, filtration, none), storage (covered narrow‑necked jerry can, open bucket, other), and hand‑washing practices. A total number of 200 sample were collected for this study among children of five (5) years of age. The result shows a prevalence of 34% (n=200) representing 34% (68) respondents of positive and 66% representing 132 respondents of negative. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that despite relatively high access to improved water sources (protected wells/boreholes) in Wukari, the prevalence of diarrhoea among children under five remains elevated (34%) because of pervasive unsafe practices downstream—principally failure to treat water before consumption, storage in uncovered buckets that permit re‑contamination, and fetching water with unclean hands. Microbiological evidence confirmed significantly higher faecal coliform counts in open‑bucket water, substantiating the causal pathway. Maternal education acted as a buffer, underscoring the role of health literacy. The findings indicate that interventions must shift focus from mere source improvement to promoting point‑of‑use safety—treatment, covered storage, and hand hygiene—to achieve meaningful reductions in diarrhoeal disease. To this end, it is recommended that; Community‑based water safety education, provision of affordable safe‑storage vessels, point‑of‑use water treatment promotion, strengthen maternal health literacy, microbial monitoring, policy advocacy and research follow‑up. Implementation and follow‑up practices which has to do with giving priorities to areas with highest diarrhoea prevalence (identified in survey) for rapid rollout; monitor via existing Integrated Disease Surveillance & Response (IDSR) system will reduce the prevalent rate of under-five diarrrhoea in Wukari which by extension Taraba State and North East in general.

Evaluating Public Awareness of Glaucoma and Their Associated Risk Factors in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State Chinwendu, Onwunali Juliet; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Samson, Efere Y.
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.9087

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease and a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, often developing without early symptoms, which makes timely detection and treatment crucial for reducing vision loss. This study assessed the level of glaucoma awareness and knowledge of its risk factors among adults in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria, and explored barriers to accessing eye care. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 440 consenting adults aged 18 years and above using a standardized questionnaire to collect socio-demographic characteristics, awareness of glaucoma, knowledge of its severity and risk factors, and willingness to seek eye care. The sample comprised 60.9% females and 39.1% males with diverse employment and educational backgrounds. While 85.7% of respondents had heard of glaucoma and many recognized it as a cause of blindness, only 26.6% knew it could be asymptomatic, and detailed knowledge of its severity profile and risk factors was limited; the main sources of information were health workers (34%), schools/lectures (24.5%), and radio/television (18.9%). A large proportion expressed willingness to undergo free eye screening, yet lack of health insurance emerged as a notable barrier to accessing timely care. These findings indicate that general awareness of glaucoma in the community is not matched by adequate understanding of its silent progression and risk factors, potentially delaying care-seeking behavior. The study concludes that awareness campaigns alone are insufficient and that comprehensive public health education, stronger collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations, and improved access to routine vision screening are essential to promote early detection and effective management of glaucoma, particularly among high-risk populations in Obio/Akpor and similar settings.

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