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Biochemical Effect of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Detarium microcarpum in Wistar Rats Maryam Usman Ahmed; Domasun Isreal; Diowato Titus; Abdulfatai Abayomi Ayinla; Kamaludden Aliyu; Idongesit Etuk
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.v2i3.6146

Abstract

Herbal remedies have been used since ancient times, often sourced from local traditional healers. However, many of these preparations are administered without thorough scientific evaluation. This study aimed to assess the effects of aqueous leaf extract of Detarium microcarpum on liver and kidney function in Wistar rats. A total of 25 male rats were randomly assigned to five groups of five animals each. Groups 2, 3, 4, and 5 received oral doses of 200, 400, 600, and 800 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively, for 21 consecutive days. Group 1, serving as the control, received only normal saline. Liver function was evaluated by measuring serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein, and albumin. All liver parameters exhibited a significant dose-dependent increase (p<0.05) in the treatment groups compared to the control, indicating hepatotoxic effects. Similarly, kidney function parameters, including bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), chloride (Cl⁻), sodium (Na⁺), and potassium (K⁺), also showed a significant dose-dependent increase. Conversely, levels of urea and creatinine significantly decreased (p<0.05) in the extract-treated groups relative to the control. The findings suggest that the aqueous leaf extract of D. microcarpum adversely affects liver and kidney function in a dose-dependent manner. Therefore, despite its traditional use, the extract should be considered potentially toxic and used with caution.
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.
Evaluation of The Antidiarrheal Activity of Aqueous Stem Bark Extract of Anogeissus leiocarpus on Castor Oil-Induced Diarrhea in Rats Maryam Usman Ahmed; Comfort Emmanuel; Yusuf Muhammad Adamu
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.v2i1.4532

Abstract

Diarrheal diseases are a major public health problem in developing countries. Anogeissus leiocarpus is used in Africa and particularly in Nigeria for the empirical treatment of diarrhea. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of aqueous stem bark extract of Anogeissus leiocarpus on castor oil-induced diarrhea in rats. Thirty (30) Wistar rats of both sexes were grouped into six groups (the first three of which served as the normal control, negative control and standard treatment respectively, the last three were used as test groups) of five rats per group. Diarrhea was induced by administering 1 ml/rat of castor oil orally. Phytochemical screening of the aqueous stem bark extract of Anogeissus leiocarpus revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, saponins and phenols. Treatment with the extract produced a significant dose-dependent inhibition of diarrhea. The percentage inhibition of diarrhea increased with corresponding increase in dose of the extract and was comparable with the percentage inhibition produced by the standard drug (loperamide). Treatment with this extract also produced a modest dose-dependent reduction on intestinal transit in rats and a statistically significant (p<0.05) dose-dependent reduction in the volume of intestinal content when compared with the negative control group. The results obtained from this study suggests that the aqueous stem bark extract of Anogeissus leiocarpus have significant antidiarrheal effect on animal models and this finding supports the traditional use of the plant extract in the management of diarrhea.
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.