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Evaluating Public Awareness of Environmental Management Strategies for Malaria Control and Prevention: A Case Study of Michika Local Government Area Isaac John Umaru; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Usenobong Morgan Akpan; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Emmanuel Olofu Omanchi; Julius Ishaya Salman; Kwabena Owusu Amoah; Maryam Usman Ahmed; Hauwa A. Umaru
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.v3i2.9305

Abstract

This study investigated malaria awareness, environmental risk factors, and preventive practices among adult residents of Michika Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and field observations to generate comprehensive data. Using a multistage sampling technique, 300 adult participants were selected across five wards to ensure representative coverage. The questionnaire was pre-tested for clarity and reliability, yielding a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.78. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. The findings revealed high levels of malaria awareness, with more than 90% of respondents identifying mosquito bites as the primary mode of transmission; however, misconceptions such as attributing malaria to dirty water and contaminated food persisted. Environmental risk factors were widely recognized, particularly stagnant water, poor drainage, and open waste disposal, and field observations confirmed the presence of these conditions, especially in Michika I, which recorded the highest prevalence of stagnant water (88%) and blocked drainage (75%). Preventive practices varied across respondents, with mosquito net use emerging as the most common measure, reaching up to 80% in Michika I, whereas participation in community sanitation remained moderate. Perceptions of institutional responses were mixed, as only 50% of respondents in Michika I believed that government efforts to control malaria were adequate. These findings indicate that, despite strong individual awareness and relatively positive preventive behavior, persistent environmental challenges, limited community engagement, inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and low participation continue to constrain malaria control efforts. The study underscores the need for integrated strategies that combine public education, environmental remediation, and multi-sectoral collaboration, and it provides an empirical basis for targeted policy interventions and future research on sustainable malaria control in Michika and comparable settings.
Awareness and Perceptions of Exclusive Breastfeeding as a Method of Birth Control Among Catholic Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Rural Communities Isaac John Umaru; Hauwa A. Umaru; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Solomon O. Asare; Inemesit Samuel Essien; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Genevieve A. Yeboah; Julius Ishaya Salman; Katchin Evelyn Shadrach; Maryam Usman Ahmed
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.v3i2.9402

Abstract

Although exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is widely recognized for its nutritional and immunological benefits, its role as a natural contraceptive through the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) remains insufficiently understood, particularly in rural communities where cultural and religious beliefs shape reproductive decisions. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness, perceptions, and barriers to the adoption of EBF as a method of birth control among Catholic pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in rural communities, while also examining the influence of education and religious beliefs on knowledge and acceptance of LAM. A quantitative survey design was employed using a structured questionnaire administered to 165 Catholic pregnant women. The instrument covered demographic characteristics, awareness of EBF and LAM, perceptions and beliefs, and barriers to adoption. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to examine associations between variables. The findings showed that most respondents were aged 25–34 years (47.3%) and married (84.8%). Although 61.8% had heard of EBF as a birth control method, only 35.2% were familiar with the term LAM, and only 25.5% understood its three effectiveness criteria. Perceptions were mixed, with 47.9% considering EBF a reliable method and 59.4% believing that it aligns with Catholic teachings. The main barriers identified were lack of counseling (51.5%), cultural pressure (43.6%), and fear of pregnancy despite amenorrhea (36.4%). Education level was significantly associated with awareness of LAM (p = 0.03). The study concludes that, despite the perceived compatibility of natural family planning with Catholic teaching, substantial informational and practical barriers continue to limit informed adoption of EBF as a contraceptive method in rural settings. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the gap between religious acceptance and practical knowledge, and underscore the need for strengthened health education, engagement of religious leaders, and literacy-sensitive interventions to support safe and informed use of EBF for birth control.
Phytochemical, Nutraceutical Profiles and Potential of Soursop Leaf Extract (Annona muricata) on Bacterial Meningitis Isaac John Umaru; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Katchim Evelyn Shadrach; Julius Ishaya Salman; Jibaniya Grace Mchibuma; Kerenhappuch Isaac Umaru
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.v3i1.8300

Abstract

The rise of multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens has intensified the search for alternative antimicrobial agents. Annona muricata (soursop), a tropical medicinal plant, has demonstrated promising antibacterial properties attributed to its rich phytochemical profile. However, the mechanistic basis of its antibacterial action remains underexplored. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the mechanistic effects of A. muricata leaf extract on key bacterial targets, including cell wall integrity, membrane permeability, protein leakage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, DNA fragmentation, and quorum sensing interference, using E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa as representative strains. Materials and Methods: Fresh A. muricata leaves were extracted using ethanol and tested at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. Bacterial cultures were subjected to six mechanistic assays: crystal violet staining for cell wall integrity, propidium iodide and NPN fluorescence for membrane permeability, SDS-PAGE for protein synthesis inhibition, Bradford assay for protein leakage, DCFH-DA assay for ROS generation, and violacein quantification using the CV026 biosensor for quorum sensing interference. Ciprofloxacin served as a positive control, and untreated cultures served as a negative control. Results: The extract caused significant cell wall disruption (62.4%), comparable to ciprofloxacin (75.6%). Membrane permeability increased markedly, with PI and NPN fluorescence levels reaching 60–80% across strains. Protein leakage was elevated, with extracellular protein concentrations ranging from 25–30 µg/mL. SDS-PAGE revealed a 48.3–52.7% reduction in protein bands, indicating inhibition of protein synthesis. ROS levels surged to 8,000–9,500 RFU in treated samples, suggesting oxidative stress. DNA integrity scores dropped to 1–2, confirming genotoxic effects. Quorum sensing was inhibited by 68.9%, reducing violacein production and potential virulence. Conclusion: Annona muricata leaf extract exhibits potent antibacterial activity through multiple mechanisms, including structural disruption, metabolic interference, and oxidative damage. Its efficacy, comparable to ciprofloxacin in several assays, highlights its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent. These findings support further investigation into its bioactive compounds and therapeutic applications in combating resistant bacterial infections.
Evaluation of Malaria and Typhoid Coinfection Among Patients at Yola General Hospital, Adamawa State Isaac John Umaru; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Usenobong Morgan Akpan; Julius Ishaya Salman; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 2 (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.v3i2.9403

Abstract

Although malaria and typhoid fever remain highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, evidence on the prevalence and clinical profile of coinfection in northeastern Nigeria remains limited. This study evaluated the burden and characteristics of malaria and typhoid coinfection among febrile patients attending Yola General Hospital in Adamawa State. A cross-sectional design was employed involving 300 patients presenting with febrile illness. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and laboratory diagnostics. Malaria was diagnosed using rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy, whereas typhoid fever was assessed using the Widal test and blood cultures. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify significant associations. The findings showed that 102 patients (34%) had malaria only, 78 (26%) had typhoid only, and 54 (18%) were coinfected. Coinfection was most prevalent among individuals aged 21–40 years (55.6%) and was slightly more common in males (55.6%) than females (44.4%). The most frequently reported symptoms among coinfected patients were fever (100%), headache (88.9%), abdominal pain (77.8%), and diarrhea (66.7%). Behavioral risk factors, including inconsistent mosquito net use, poor hand hygiene, and consumption of untreated water, were significantly associated with infection. Coinfection rates also peaked during the rainy season from June to September, accounting for 74.1% of cases. The study concludes that malaria and typhoid coinfection constitutes a substantial clinical and public health burden in Yola. These findings contribute empirical evidence on the demographic, symptomatic, behavioral, and seasonal profile of coinfected patients and highlight the need for dual diagnostic screening, improved laboratory infrastructure, and targeted health education on hygiene and vector control.