African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research aims to publish rigorous, peer-reviewed scholarship that advances medical science, surgical practice, and public health research through ethically grounded, scientifically robust, and practically relevant studies. • Medical Research: disseminate high-quality evidence that improves clinical understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. • Surgical Scholarship: promote research on surgical procedures, perioperative care, outcomes, innovations, and evidence-based surgical practice. • Public Health Advancement: support preventive, epidemiological, community, and policy-oriented studies that strengthen population health and healthcare systems. • Integrated Health Impact: encourage work linking clinical medicine, surgery, and public health to improve health outcomes across individual and community settings. Submissions should clearly define the clinical, surgical, or public-health problem, report methods transparently, present defensible evidence, and articulate a meaningful contribution to healthcare research and practice. Scope AJMSPHR welcomes original research papers and related scholarly contributions in medicine, surgery, and public health, especially studies that demonstrate scientific rigor, ethical responsibility, and clear relevance to health outcomes, healthcare delivery, and disease prevention. • Medicine: internal medicine, clinical research, disease management, diagnostics, therapeutics, and patient-centered healthcare studies. • Surgery: general and specialized surgery, operative techniques, perioperative care, surgical outcomes, trauma care, and procedural innovation. • Public Health: epidemiology, health promotion, disease prevention, environmental health, maternal and child health, and community-health interventions. • Health Systems and Policy: healthcare access, service delivery, health management, workforce issues, and evidence informing public-health or clinical policy. • Interdisciplinary Health Research: studies bridging medicine, surgery, and public health with implications for healthcare improvement and population well-being. Priority is given to original research articles that demonstrate methodological rigor, ethical compliance, and a clear contribution to medical science, surgical knowledge, or evidence-based public-health practice.
Articles
66 Documents
<![CDATA[Responsiveness and Acceptability for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine Among Parents of Adolescent Girls in Port Harcourt City, Rivers State ]]>
<![CDATA[Bright-Okere Ugochi N]]>;
<![CDATA[Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i1.4536
<![CDATA[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.]]>
<![CDATA[Assessment of Anti-Hepatitis B Virus Activity of Leaf Extract of Morinda Citrifolia ]]>
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>;
<![CDATA[Ismail Yunusa Yuguda]]>;
<![CDATA[Ocheifa Mathew Ngbede]]>;
<![CDATA[Kingsley Iyoko Iseko]]>;
<![CDATA[Lubabatu Abdulrasheed]]>;
<![CDATA[Tensaba Andes Akafa]]>;
<![CDATA[Ameh Godwin Okwori]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i1.4593
<![CDATA[Hepatitis B virus infection remains a global health problem, it is a leading cause of liver disease and a possible worldwide source of severe morbidity and mortality. The current standard therapy using interferons or antiviral agents is not successful in all cases and is associated with severe side effects. Consequently, the development of new medicines for the treatment of HBV is still relevant. This experimental study was therefore performed to assess the anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) potential of Leaf extract of Morinda citrifolia. The methanolic extracts of the Leaf extract of Morinda citrifolia first assessed for cytotoxicity on HepG2.2.15 cells and cytotoxicity concentration (CC50) values were resolved. The methanolic extracts of the Leaf extract of Morinda citrifolia was additionally examined on HepG2.2.15 cells for anti-HBV potential by examining the inhibition of HBsAg and HBeAg production in the culture supernatants, and calculating their half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) and therapeutic index (TI) values. Out of four concentration only three exhibit inhibition of HBsAg production in an increasing dose and time dependent manner. These four concentrations are 100 μg/mL, 200 μg/mL, 300 μg/mL and 400 μg/mL, with IC50 values of 21.15, 24.51, 118.94, 17.65, 20.93 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the presence of terpenoids, tannins, alkaloids and flavonoids that could contribute to antiviral efficacy was validated with a qualitative phytochemical study of active extracts.]]>
<![CDATA[Antihypertensive Effects of Ethanol Stem-Bark Extract of Morinda Citrifolia in Rats ]]>
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>;
<![CDATA[Ameh Godwin Okwori]]>;
<![CDATA[Ocheifa Mathew Ngbede]]>;
<![CDATA[Lubabatu Abdulrasheed]]>;
<![CDATA[Kingsley Iyoko Iseko]]>;
<![CDATA[Tensaba Andes Akafa]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i1.4594
<![CDATA[The medical term used for blood pressure is Hypertension (HTN). Hypertension is a common problem faced by most people today. The leading danger for many diseases such as CVD (cardiovascular) disorder and stroke is high blood pressure. Major diseases like CHF (congestive heart failure), renal disease and blindness can also be caused by HTN. Awareness of plant-based medication therapeutics is continuously increasing day by day. Morinda citrifolia L (Noni) has been used in folk remedies by Polynesians for over 2000 years, and is reported to have a broad range of therapeutic effects. The purpose of this study is to investigate the hypotensive potential of Morinda citrifolia L (Noni) (Family: Rubiaceae) in both normotensive and hypertensive rats. Methods: Aqueous-methanol (70:30) extract of Morinda citrifolia L stem-bark extract at doses of 25, 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg was evaluated for its effect on blood pressure and heart rate using non-invasive blood pressure measuring apparatus. After initial screening, 100 mg/kg dose that produced a maximum effect was selected for the antihypertensive study. Median lethal dose (LD50) and sub-chronic toxicity of the extract were also determined. Various biochemical parameters and organ weight were measured using standard procedures. Results: The extract produced a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean blood pressure (MBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and heart rate of normotensive rats at all test doses with maximum effect at 100 mg/kg. Similarly, a significant antihypertensive and negative chronotropic effect was observed in both hypertensive models. LD50 of the extract was 200 mg/kg in mice. The extract also exhibited a reduction (p < 0.05) in serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels while a significant (p < 0.05) increase in high density lipoproteins (HDL) level was observed. Conclusion: It seems that the aqueous-methanol stem-bark extract of Morinda citrifolia L possesses active compounds which may be responsible for the antihypertensive and negative chronotropic effects in rats.]]>
<![CDATA[Unpacking the Pain: Understanding Barriers and Unmet Needs of Adults with Low Back Pain in a Southern Nigeria Outpatient Clinic ]]>
<![CDATA[Obianuju Iheomamere Muoghallu]]>;
<![CDATA[Akaninyene Mark]]>;
<![CDATA[Tensaba Andes Akafa]]>;
<![CDATA[Gloria Omonefe Oladele]]>;
<![CDATA[Kingsley Iyoko Iseko]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i1.4610
<![CDATA[Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent health issue leading to functional disability in adults. This study aimed to evaluate the barriers to care and unmet needs of adults with LBP and functional disability attending the General Out-Patient Clinic (GOPC) at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Akwa Ibom State. The goal is to enhance quality of life by reducing disability and LBP burden through prevention, addressing barriers, and fulfilling unmet needs. Key barriers identified include limited access to healthcare, high out-of-pocket costs, inadequate insurance coverage, and a lack of understanding of LBP and self-management strategies. Methodology: Conducted at the GOPC, this cross-sectional analytical study involved 370 adult patients (18+ years) using systematic sampling. Data collection spanned two months, employing an interviewer-administered semi-structured Oswestry lumbar disability questionnaire. Analysis utilized IBM SPSS version 27, with frequency tables for pain patterns and chi-square tests to assess associations between body mass index (BMI) and LBP severity. Results: The mean age of respondents was 40.2 years. LBP was significantly linked to low function, with the association strengthening over time. Most respondents were classified as obese (BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m²), and 56.7% reported high pain intensity. Activities like lifting weights and sitting exacerbated pain for 70.3% and 66.2% of respondents, respectively. The median pain score was 52, with significant differences noted (p<0.001). Alcohol consumption was reported by 39.6% (p=0.005), while 72.2% did not smoke. Respondents with LBP were 1.70 times more likely to experience functional disability compared to those without. Conclusion: LBP is strongly associated with functional disability among adults. Unmet needs include limited rehabilitation access, inadequate education on LBP, and insufficient support for self-management. Addressing risk factors, implementing multi-modal pain management strategies, and enhancing health education are essential for preventing functional disability.]]>
<![CDATA[Intubating Conditions and Tracheal Intubation at First Attempt Without Neuromuscular Blockade Using Sevoflurane: Comparison of Clinical Versus Bispectral Index Monitored Depth of Anaesthesia ]]>
<![CDATA[Aliyu Husseina Amina]]>;
<![CDATA[Usman Yohanna Musa]]>;
<![CDATA[Kpalap Precious Barisi]]>;
<![CDATA[Shaki Rimamkanati]]>;
<![CDATA[Malau Kefas Thomas]]>;
<![CDATA[Nuhu Samuel Isaiah]]>;
<![CDATA[Embu Henry Yammoh]]>;
<![CDATA[Isamade Erdoo Suckie]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i1.4744
<![CDATA[Tracheal intubation, which is typically made possible by neuromuscular blocking agents, is an essential part of airway management in critical care and anaesthesia. To lessen related side effects such as persistent paralysis, anaphylaxis, and residual neuromuscular blockade, the avoidance of neuromuscular blocking agents is being sought after more and more. This study therefore sought to determine intubating conditions and tracheal intubation at first attempt without neuromuscular blockade using sevoflurane, comparing clinical versus bispectral index monitored depth of anaesthesia. This was a randomised, single-blind, controlled clinical study conducted in the Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria, among 56 paediatric surgical patients aged 2 to 6 years with ASA I and II scheduled for adenotonsillectomy sampled purposely. Exclusion criteria included parental/guardian refusal, recent respiratory tract infection, and patients with anticipated difficult airway or intubation. Patients were randomised into two groups, B and C, with patients in group B receiving BIS monitoring while those in group C received clinical monitoring for the depth of anaesthesia with sevoflurane and without a neuromuscular blocking agent. After a successful tracheal intubation, the number of attempts at successful tracheal intubation and the intubating conditions scores were noted and recorded for both study groups. Data was analysed using SPSS with students’ t-test and chi-square test being the statistical tests utilised, and the level of significance set at p=0.05. The BIS group had 18 (64.28%), 10 (35.71%), and 0 (0%) children, respectively, with Helbo-Hansen scores of 4, 5, and 6, while the clinical group had 12 (42.86%), 14 (50%), and 2 (7.14%) children, respectively, with similar Helbo-Hansen scores. All the study participants had successful tracheal intubation at the first attempt. The intubating conditions and success rate at the first attempt at intubation when the depth of anaesthesia was monitored using clinical signs compared favourably with when the depth of anaesthesia was monitored using BIS.]]>
<![CDATA[Factors Associated with Persistence of Malaria Prevalence Among Under Five Children in Maiha Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Chidama Ibrahim Mohammed]]>;
<![CDATA[Chinda Ndumari Kirchinga]]>;
<![CDATA[Aliyu Idris]]>;
<![CDATA[Mohammed Hayatu Girei]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i1.4745
<![CDATA[The research determined the factors associated with persistence of malaria prevalence among UN5 in Maiha Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria. Consecutive sampling method was employed to enroll a total of 2822 UN5 who attended the sampled health facilities from 19th September, 2024 to 31st October, 2024. These UN5 were subjected to malaria diagnostic tests using both mRTD and microscopy. The caregivers of these UN5 were interviewed using a structured questionnaire for data collection on factors influencing the persistence of malaria among UN5. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive and logistic regression model for the prevalence of malaria. mRTD and microscopy results revealed malaria prevalence of 76.47% (2158). Logistic regression result on demographic factors was (R2 = 0.6849) with Age of the child, Marital Status of caregiver, Educational Qualifications of caregiver, Income of caregiver and Occupations of caregiver all had positive coefficient and were all significant at 1%. The contributory Environmental factors was (R2 =, 0.5533), and its components were drainage pattern, Bushes around houses and garbage heaps were all significant at 1% as a factor influencing persistence of malaria. Care giver factors influencing malaria was (R2 =0.6826) This disclosed that care givers knew that mosquito bite causes malaria and high body temperature was a symptom of malaria as logistic regression results shows positive and is significant at 1%. Similarly, care givers in the study area don’t often use mosquito net as the result revealed shows positive coefficient. Similarly, the house hold factors has (R2 = 0.7681) having all the four household factors that are captured in this study which are the nature of houses,, time for going to bed, source of light and diet, all had positive coefficient and were significant at 1%.. Recommendations was made for a well-planned and resourced health education and promotion interventions by the government and other concerned malaria prevention organizations that focus on prevention and treatment of malaria burden amongst UN5 in Maiha local government area of Adamawa state, Nigeria.]]>
<![CDATA[Assessment of HIV 1 GP120/CD4 Binding Inhibition Potential of Methanolic Extracts of Achyranthes Aspera Leaves ]]>
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>;
<![CDATA[Tensaba Andes Akafa]]>;
<![CDATA[Ingwu Joseph Akem]]>;
<![CDATA[Ocheifa Mathew Ngbede]]>;
<![CDATA[Joseph Oteng]]>;
<![CDATA[Ashaka Fidelis Utioukpan]]>;
<![CDATA[Aboki Nwunuji Mijinyawa]]>;
<![CDATA[Odok Endurance Akam]]>;
<![CDATA[Ogholo Ogholo Ekup]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i2.5184
<![CDATA[Achyranthes aspera (Amaranthaceae) is an important medicinal herb found as a weed throughout Nigeria. Though almost all of its parts are used in traditional systems of medicines, leaves, seeds, roots and shoots are the most important parts which are used medicinally. The present article gives an account of updated information on its phytochemical and pharmacological properties. The Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is still contributing significantly in morbidities and mortalities in the world today. The drugs normally used to treat the infection are costly, toxic, and less effective due to resistance by HIV. Thus, the assessment of gp120-CD4 binding inhibition potential of Achyranthes aspera leaves extract was conducted using gp120-CD4 capture ELISA kits. Aqueous, methanol, and petroleum ether extracts were prepared at 1000, 500 and 250 μg/ml and tested for gp120-CD4 binding inhibition. Sub-cute toxicity assay was done using albino rats; Biochemical parameters including alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as well as bilirubin for liver and urea, electrolytes and creatinine for kidney functions were evaluated. The results of the effect of crude aqueous, methanol and petroleum ether Achyranthes aspera leaves extract against gp120-CD4 showed inhibition ranging from 1.4 – 17.2 %. with 1000 μg/ml showing highest percentage of inhibition. There was no significant difference (P = 0.862) in terms of percentage inhibition between the three concentrations tested. Methanol extract demonstrated the highest percentage inhibition of gp120-CD4 bindings (17.2 %). No significant difference (P = 0.124) between the three extracts against gp-120-CD4 bindings was observed. The results of the sub-acute toxicity study have shown that, there were no physical changes in animals treated with 500 mg/kg of all the extracts. The result of liver function test revealed that, ALT, AST and ALP were within the normal range (12U/L) for both the high and low concentrations of the extracts including the control. Also result for total protein, albumin, globulin for the test albino rats and that of the control rat were found to be within the normal range 5.1-6.1, 4.2-5.3, and 3.1-3.8 g/dl respectively. For serum electrolyte level, sodium and potassium ions for the various concentrations of the extracts tested and control were also found to be within normal range. The result of kidney function test revealed that, urea, creatinine and direct and total bilirubin of the rats tested and control were all found to be within normal range. In conclusion, ether Achyranthes aspera leaves extract possessed some levels of HIV-1 gp120-CD4 binding inhibition potentials and the extracts was found to be non-toxic at 250 and 500mg/ kg body weight. It can be recommended that, the bioactive compounds should therefore be isolated and tested for gp120-CD4 binding inhibition activity.]]>
<![CDATA[Urinary and Faecal Incontinence Among Adults with Stroke in South-West Nigeria – A Cross Sectional Survey ]]>
<![CDATA[Zaki A. Desmond]]>;
<![CDATA[Karaga A. Mahmud]]>;
<![CDATA[Adeleke O. Joana]]>;
<![CDATA[Tabiti O. Omotayo]]>;
<![CDATA[Lawal B. Lateefat]]>;
<![CDATA[Farounbi A. David]]>;
<![CDATA[Saleh B. Abubakar]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i2.5224
<![CDATA[Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) post-stroke has been identified as major problem among stroke survivors. The aftermath of faecal incontinence (FI) is always disturbing as it may lead to low self-esteem, caregiver stress and reduced rehabilitation participation. There is dearth of publication on urinary and faecal incontinence among adults with stroke in Nigeria.Aim: This study was designed to determine the prevalence as well as the association between UI and FI among adults with stroke in South-West Nigeria. Methods: Fifty-three participants were enlisted by consecutive sampling technique for this cross-sectional study. The Wexner/Cleveland Clinic Florida Incontinence score (CCFIS) and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF) were administered for data collection. Descriptive statistics of mean, standard deviation, percentages and frequency were used to summarize obtained data, inferential statistics of Chi-square was used to determine the association between UI and FI, and between gender and UI and FI among the participants. Also, Spearman’s correlation was used to assess the relationship between age and duration of stroke and each of UI and FI. Alpha was set at 0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 52.98±14.564 ranging from 24 to 80 years. The prevalence of UI was 69.8% while FI was 47.2% and there was no significant association between them. However, there was significant relationship between FI and duration of stoke. On the other hand, there was no significant relationship between UI and duration of stroke, but there was significant relationship between Age and FI and UI. Conclusion: The occurrence of UI and FI are independent of each other, patient age is associated with a risk of developing both UI and FI post stroke, while gender is not strong a determinant of post stroke UI and FI. Additionally, duration of stroke could significantly influence FI but not UI post stroke. More research on aetiology, incidence, and possible prevention and management of UI and FI post stroke is recommended.]]>
<![CDATA[Perception of Built Environment and Its Association with Physical Function Among Older Adults in Maiduguri Metropolis, Nigeria: A Cross-Section Study ]]>
<![CDATA[Cornelius M. Ishaku]]>;
<![CDATA[Munirat B. Onundi]]>;
<![CDATA[Mahmud A. Karaga]]>;
<![CDATA[Chungsyn C. Ajuji]]>;
<![CDATA[Desmond A. Zaki]]>;
<![CDATA[Anthony M. Audu]]>;
<![CDATA[Francis Fidelis]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i2.5225
<![CDATA[Introduction: Ageing is associated with decline in muscle mass and strength which compromise functions and participation. Physical function is a good indicator of overall health status as it lowers the risk of falls, chronic diseases and disability among older adults. Aims: To investigate the association between physical function and the perception of built environment among older adults in Maiduguri Metropolis. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted to recruit apparently 400 healthy older adults aged 60 years and above, using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics of mean, standard deviation and percentage were used to summarize the socio-demographics; physical function and perception of built environment among the participants. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between physical function and access to destination; social environment; neighbourhood infrastructure; aesthetic quality; and neighbourhood safety. Data was analysed using SPSS version 22 at an alpha level 0.05. Results: Most participants were males (68.8 %), living in low-income area (70.0 %) with average age of 68.77 6.52 and mean score of 83.30 ± 25.96 physical function. There was no statistically significant association found between physical function and perception of the built environmental variables among the participants, however, 3 out of the five built environment features are likely to improve physical functions. Conclusion: Although there was no significant association, access to destination in the neighbourhood, neighbourhood aesthetic quality and social environment were positively associated with the physical function. The findings of the study should be interpreted with caution as more that 70% of the participant fall in the category of those living in low-income area which may affect their built environment.]]>
<![CDATA[Mental Health Literacy, Stigma, and Help-Seeking Behavior: A Study Among Teenagers in Rumuolumeni, Rivers State ]]>
<![CDATA[Osebhahiemen Andrea Aisiku]]>;
<![CDATA[Edobor Peter Kenneth Imarenezor]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i2.5256
<![CDATA[Adolescence is a critical period of significant physical, emotional, and social change, during which mental health problems often emerge. In Nigeria, the prevalence of mental health issues among adolescents is a growing concern, with studies suggesting that up to 20% of adolescents experience mental health problems. However, mental health literacy (MHL), which refers to the knowledge and beliefs about mental health and mental illness, is often poor among adolescents, leading to delayed or inadequate help-seeking. Furthermore, stigma and discrimination against individuals with mental illness are pervasive in Nigerian society, creating a significant barrier to help-seeking behaviour (HSB). In Rivers State, Nigeria, where this study is situated, there is a paucity of research on mental health literacy, stigma, and help-seeking behaviour among adolescents. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by investigating the level of mental health literacy, the impact of stigma, and help-seeking behaviours among teenagers in Rumuolumeni, Rivers State. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 285 secondary school students (ages 13-19) from public and private schools. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and vignettes assessing knowledge of mental health conditions, attitudes toward stigma, and preferred help-seeking pathways. Chi-square tests were used to analyse associations between demographic factors and key mental health variables. The results show that 56.9% of participants could recognize symptoms of mental health conditions in themselves. However, fewer students accurately identified depression (36.3%), anxiety (22.8%), and addiction (41%). Stigma was a major barrier, with 24.8% of respondents reporting personal experiences of discrimination, often from friends (55.9%) and family (30.9%). Help-seeking was predominantly informal, with 64.9% preferring parents/guardians over mental health professionals (13.6%). While gender, age, and school type showed no significant associations with MHL, stigma, or HSB, religion significantly influenced stigma (p = 0.020). These findings emphasize the need for urgent attention to promote mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and encourage help-seeking behaviour among teenagers in Rumuolumeni, Rivers State. The findings suggest that adolescent-centred mental health education, stigma-reduction campaigns, and community-based interventions are essential to promote early intervention and improve adolescent mental health outcomes. By strengthening school curricula, training parents and guardians, and engaging religious leaders and the community, we can work towards creating a supportive environment that encourages teenagers to seek help and promotes positive mental health outcomes. The study's findings have important implications for policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders working to promote adolescent mental health in Nigeria.]]>
