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Socio-Demographic Characteristics and Prevalence of Gender-Based Violence Among Female Sex Workers in Rural Areas, South Africa Jonas, Phumla; Mokgatle, Mathildah; Mokwena, Kebogile; Hoque, Muhammad
Al-Sihah : The Public Health Science Journal Volume 16, Nomor 1, January-June 2024
Publisher : Program Studi Kesehatan Masyarakat UIN Alauddin Makassar

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24252/al-sihah.v16i1.43377

Abstract

In rural areas, a dearth of health care support services, lack of legal protection, and widespread stigma can lead to increased cases of violence and exploitation, making it increasingly difficult for female sex workers to seek help or escape situations of abuse. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) among female sex workers (FSWs) in the Westrand District area of Mogale, South Africa. This was a descriptive, quantitative study conducted among 383 FSWs who were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. About half of the FSWs (45%) were between the ages of 25 and 35. Most of the FSWs were single (91%), and half of them (54%) had completed only secondary education. Results showed that two-thirds of the FSWs (67%) experienced GBV. More than two-thirds (70%) had been belittled, 60% reported being insulted, 43% of FSWs had experienced forced vaginal sex, and another 40% had experienced forced anal or oral sex. Among those who did not report the violence, 18% indicated financial reasons, followed by personal choice. GBV is pervasive among FSWs in Mogale City and hinders HIV prevention efforts as well as access to justice and treatment. An integrated, multi-sectoral GBV strategy that addresses structural risks is required to improve safety and promote access to care and justice.
Depression Symptoms Among Early Childhood Development Practitioners in South Africa Kunene, Mercedes Zanele; Mokwena, Kebogile; Mokgatle, Mathildah
Al-Sihah : The Public Health Science Journal Volume 16, Nomor 2, July-December 2024
Publisher : Program Studi Kesehatan Masyarakat UIN Alauddin Makassar

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24252/al-sihah.v16i2.52139

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of depression is a growing global concern, including among early childhood development practitioners. However, there is a dearth of studies on the mental health of these practitioners in South Africa. The objective of this study was to screen for the prevalence and severity of depression symptoms among practitioners. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and a socio-demographic questionnaire were used to collect data from 402 practitioners. Descriptive analysis of the data was performed using Stata 14. The Pearson chi-square test and logistic regression model were applied to explore associations between socio-demographic variables and PHQ-9 scores and to identify factors significantly associated with depression symptoms. Nearly half of the participants (47.26%) tested positive for depression symptoms across various severity categories, including mild (27.11%), moderate (15.92%), moderately severe (3.48%), and severe (0.75%). Key variables such as the location of the center, the number of children living with the practitioner, substance use, the number of practitioners in the center, the number of children per class, and the total number of children in the center were significantly associated with depression symptoms (p ≤ 0.05). The study recommends the development and implementation of tailored interventions to address the mental health needs of practitioners, thereby improving both the academic and non-academic outcomes of learners.
Antenatal Depression and Its Risk Factors Among Public Clinic Attendees: A Cross-Sectional Study in Urban and Rural Area of Limpopo, South Africa Salane, Mulalo; Mokwena, Kebogile
Al-Sihah : The Public Health Science Journal Volume 17, Nomor 1, January-June 2025
Publisher : Program Studi Kesehatan Masyarakat UIN Alauddin Makassar

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24252/al-sihah.v17i1.51825

Abstract

Antenatal depression is a common yet underdiagnosed mental health issue with serious implications for maternal and child well-being. While its prevalence is well-documented globally, limited research exists on its burden and contributing factors within primary health care settings in rural South Africa. The purpose of this study was to screen for symptoms of antenatal depression and explore associated factors among clinic attendees in primary health care facilities in the Capricorn Health District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale-10 (EPDS-10) was used to screen for symptoms of antenatal depression, and a quantitative questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic data. The ages of the sample ranged from 18 to 44 years, with a mean age of 28 years. The greatest proportion, 46% (n = 186), were single, and the majority were unemployed, 67% (n = 270), with 53.25% (n = 243) having completed high school. Almost half, 47.25% (n = 189), had not planned their pregnancy. The prevalence of antenatal depression symptoms was high, at 46% (n = 184). Factors associated with antenatal depression symptoms included being unemployed, having a previous diagnosis of postnatal depression (PND), dissatisfaction with the relationship with one’s partner, and lack of financial, social, and emotional support from the partner, as well as experiencing severe stress in the previous six weeks. The results highlight the need for routine antenatal screening for depression in primary health care facilities, where the majority of pregnant women access prenatal care.
Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in A Sample of Christian Denominations: A Study From South Africa Mokwena, Kebogile; Maaga, Khomotso; Ramatsui, Oria; Ngema, Vukile Msizi; Ravhengani, Machaka
Diversity: Disease Preventive of Research Integrity Volume 6, Issue 1, August 2025
Publisher : Program Studi Kesehatan Masyarakat UIN Alauddin Makassar

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24252/diversity.v6i1.58862

Abstract

The rising global prevalence of mental disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, underscores the urgent need to assess their burden within communities. Faith-based groups represent a unique population for such assessments as they include diverse segments of society while also functioning as significant social and spiritual support systems. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms among members of Christian denominations in South Africa. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted across various provinces, and data were collected using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). A total of 508 participants constituted the final sample. The findings revealed a prevalence of 40.94% for depression and 38.98% for anxiety symptoms. Inferential analysis indicated significant associations between gender, number of dependents, and frequency of church attendance with both depression and anxiety symptoms (p≤0.05). These results highlight the elevated burden of mental health symptoms within faith-based populations, exceeding previously reported rates in the general population. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating mental health awareness and support into church settings to reduce stigma, provide targeted interventions, and promote family and community well-being within South Africa.