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[The Lungs: Anatomy, Function, Disorders, and Care ]]>
<![CDATA[Muhammad Akram]]>;
<![CDATA[Misbah Ahmed]]>;
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>
<![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.v2i2.5277
<![CDATA[The lungs play a crucial role in the respiratory system, facilitating oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal. This article explores lung anatomy, including the differences between the right and left lungs, and details their function in gas exchange. It also highlights common lung disorders such as asthma, COPD, and lung cancer, along with their symptoms, diagnostic tests, and treatments. Additionally, it provides essential tips for maintaining lung health, such as quitting smoking, exercising, and staying hydrated. Understanding lung function and care is vital for overall well-being and disease prevention.]]>
<![CDATA[A Survey of Urinary and Faecal Incontinence Among Children with Cerebral Palsy in Selected Tertiary Hospitals in South-West Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Zaki Desmond A.]]>;
<![CDATA[Karaga Mahmud A.]]>;
<![CDATA[Christopher Raphael]]>;
<![CDATA[Saleh Baba A.]]>;
<![CDATA[John-Chu Cindy G.]]>;
<![CDATA[Adeleke Joana O.]]>;
<![CDATA[Akintunde Ireoluwa T.]]>
<![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.v2i2.5278
<![CDATA[Background: Previous studies have investigated the prevalence of Urinary Incontinence (UI) in children with cerebral palsy (CP), and yet a very few others have looked at Faecal incontinence (FI) in this population. However, there is a notable dearth of research on the association between UI and FI amongst this population particularly in the South-west Nigeria. Aim: To examine the prevalence of UI and FI in children with CP, as well as the association between UI and FI among this population in South-west Nigeria. Methods: Consecutive sampling technique was used to enlist 77 participants attending outpatient physiotherapy clinics in tertiary hospitals in Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Lagos and Ekiti states in south-western Nigeria. ICIQ-CLUTS questionnaire, Wexner/Cleaveland Clinic Florida Incontinence Score, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) were administered to the participants through their primary caregivers. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize participants’ socio-demographic data. Inferential statistics of chi-square was used to determine the association between selected socio-demographic characteristics and each of UI, FI and GMFCS among participants. Spearman correlation was used to test the relationship between selected socio-demographic characteristics and each of UI, FI and GMFCS among participants. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 at 0.05 alpha level. Results: Among the participants, 51.9% were females and 48.1% were males, the mean age was 2.08 ± 0.82. Prevalence of UI amongst children with CP showed majority (79.2%) experiencing moderate symptoms, (19.5%) severe symptoms and (1.3%) experienced extremely severe symptoms. Prevalence of FI showed moderate symptoms in (62.3%), mild symptoms in (31.2%) and severe symptoms in (5.2%). However, no significant relationship or association was found among socio-demographic variables and (UI, FI, GMFCS). Conclusion: This study shows a 100% prevalence of UI and 98.7% of FI among children with Cerebral Palsy, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive care and management strategies. The associated physical, psychological, and social implications for both the child and family cannot be overemphasized.]]>
<![CDATA[Phenotypic Detection and Risk Factors of Bacteria Aetiological Agents of Dental Caries in Patients in Uyo Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Ifeanyi Abraham Onwuezobe]]>;
<![CDATA[Mary Athanasius Udoh]]>;
<![CDATA[Agantem Emmanuel Ekuma]]>;
<![CDATA[Mary Bondick Takon]]>;
<![CDATA[Faith Amarachi Ngwu]]>
<![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.v2i2.5303
<![CDATA[Background. Dental caries is a highly prevalent oral disease that affects approximately 100% of individuals in the society. This disease causes severe damage to the teeth. Several acidophilic bacteria are implicated in the disease. This research was done to detect bacterial agents and risk factors implicated in caries in Uyo, Nigeria. Methods. A total of 120 dental plaque samples were cultured. Vitek 2 System (bioMe´rieux) was used for biochemical characterization and antibiotic susceptibility of isolates. Results. Several bacterial species (Thirteen) were obtained from significant culture growth of 27 (22.5%). Burkholderia cepacia group were 7(5.8%), and the most prevalent. Enterococcus faecalis 1(0.8%), Enterococcus spp (non E. faecalis) 1(0.8%), Pediococcus pentosaceus 1(0.8%), Kocuria kristinae 1(0.8%), Serratia ficaria 2(1.7%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 1(0.8%), Acinetobacter spp 1(0.8%) and Enterobacter cloacae ssp dissolvens 1(0.8%) were the least prevalent isolates. This study showed new bacteria species being implicated in caries, and high consumption of sugary foods being the main risk factor of caries. Conclusions. The identification of novel bacteria species in caries, and the attribution of staple foods as the lead risk factor of caries amongst dental caries patients in Uyo is a cause for alarm, as most of these people rely on carbohydrates for their daily food, as the soil of their farmlands are most favourable in yielding carbohydrate crops compared to other crops. Hence, there is need for frequent health enlightenment program, especially in the urban areas on adverse effect of frequent snacking and/or eating carbohydrates without rinsing the mouth frequently to rid it of food debris.]]>
<![CDATA[Psychological Framework of Early Emotional Bonds ]]>
<![CDATA[Muhammad Akram]]>;
<![CDATA[Sabahat Abbas]]>;
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>
<![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.v2i2.5304
<![CDATA[The attachment theory suggests that the parental-child relationship is the building block for future relationship patterns and immediate security and comfort. A securely attached child will likely have healthy relationships as an adult, with better emotional awareness, empathy, and capacity to create long-term love relationships. On the other hand, insecurely attached children may go on to experience issues with attachment into adulthood, leading to relationship difficulties, emotional dysregulation, and greater risk of mental health difficulties such as personality disorders, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, it has been proven that the attachment system itself is also dynamic and changes depending on a wide range of relational and environmental circumstances. The type of attachment relationships can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as parenting style, societal context, cultural expectations, and even the occurrence of outside stressors like trauma or divorce. For instance, therapies that foster secure attachment can effectively decrease the negative impacts of early trauma and adversity and allow children to be resilient.]]>
<![CDATA[Evaluation of the Effect of Rauwolfia vomitoria on Visuospatial and Cognitive Functions in Mice ]]>
<![CDATA[Esu Ukpai Enene]]>;
<![CDATA[Agnes I. Odey]]>;
<![CDATA[Imoh Ukoh]]>;
<![CDATA[Samuel Mobisson]]>
<![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.v2i2.5305
<![CDATA[Background: Due to the detrimental and adverse effect intense oxidative stress has on the brain resulting in cognitive function impairment. Hence, this study to evaluate the effect of Rauwolfia vomitoria on visuospatial and cognitive function in mice. Methods: Thirty (30) Swiss male albino mice weighing 19 to 35g were randomly assigned into three groups (A to C) ten mice each and treated as follows: Group A served as the control, Group B received 3-NP 20mg/kg via intraperitoneally for 5 days, Group C received 3-NP 20mg/kg intraperitoneally and Rauwolfia vomitoria 15mg/kg orally. Treatment was for 21 days and thereafter, neurobehavioral studies for visuospatial learning and memory was assayed using the Morris water maze test while cognition was evaluated using the novel object recognition test. IBM SPSS statistical software version 20, was used to analyze the data (P-value=<0.05) Results: 3-NP 20mg/kg significantly impaired cognition, as evidenced by decreased total exploration time, decreased index of habituation and decreased index of discrimination in the novel object recognition test. And also 3-NP caused impairment in visuospatial learning as evidenced by decreased retention quadrant duration, decreased annulus acquisition duration and decreased annulus reversal. Rauwolfia vomitoria treated group significantly ameliorated the visuospatial and cognitive impairments induced by 3-NP. Conclusions: It is based on these results, we draw the conclusion that R. vomitoria may possess memory enhancing property that resulted in the reversal of the visuospatial and cognitive decline in the Rauwolfia vomitoria (15mg/kg) treated group.]]>
<![CDATA[Advancements in Epilepsy Treatment: Challenges, Innovations, and Social Impacts on Patients ]]>
<![CDATA[Muhammad Akram]]>;
<![CDATA[Muhammad Tayyab Aslam]]>;
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>
<![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.v2i2.5327
<![CDATA[Epilepsy-related seizures can range greatly, from focal seizures that can impact certain brain areas to widespread tonic-clonic seizures. Although the exact origin of epilepsy is sometimes unknown, the underlying reasons are many and include genetic factors, brain damage, infections, stroke, tumors, and developmental abnormalities. The goal of both pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological treatments for epilepsy is to avoid seizures. With the aim of controlling seizures, antiepileptic medications (AEDs) are the first line of treatment for the majority of patients. However, about one-third of individuals with epilepsy suffer from drug-resistant seizures, which can cause cognitive, psychological, and social issues and have a significant impact on their quality of life. In these cases, alternative treatments like deep brain stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, ketogenic diets, and surgery may be considered. New insights into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying epilepsy have created opportunities for personalized medicine, allowing for more focused therapeutic approaches. New treatment approaches have been made possible by the discovery of certain genetic mutations, changed ion channel function, and neuroinflammation in some forms of epilepsy. Even with these developments, there are still obstacles in the way of attaining ideal seizure control and raising epileptic patients' quality of life. Because individuals with epilepsy may experience stigmatization, discrimination, and obstacles to social integration, work, and education, the illness also has significant social ramifications. To improve outcomes for individuals with epilepsy, comprehensive care models, enhanced diagnostic technologies, and public awareness campaigns are essential. Additionally, the burden that epilepsy causes on people and society may be lessened with continued study into the neurobiological processes of seizures and the creation of more potent therapies.]]>
<![CDATA[The Growing Impact of Telemedicine in Modern Healthcare ]]>
<![CDATA[Muhammad Akram]]>;
<![CDATA[Alam Afroz Urooj Khan]]>;
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>;
<![CDATA[Isbah Shahid]]>
<![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.v2i2.5422
<![CDATA[Telemedicine employs technology to facilitate remote consultations and treatments, fundamentally changing healthcare practices. Its application increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing healthcare access, reducing costs, and facilitating the management of chronic diseases and mental health issues. While offering distinct benefits, such as greater efficiency and enhanced accessibility, telemedicine also poses challenges, including technological hurdles, privacy issues, and legal restrictions. Emerging innovations such as artificial intelligence, smart gadgets, and interconnected health systems position telemedicine to become an essential element of contemporary healthcare. Targeted policy and infrastructure initiatives are crucial to promote equitable and effective use.]]>
<![CDATA[Percentage and Risk Factors of Urinary Tract Infections among Pregnant Women attending FANC Visits in Public Secondary Hospitals in Jama’a LGA, Kaduna State ]]>
<![CDATA[Peter Francis Yaki]]>;
<![CDATA[Nworuh B. O.]]>;
<![CDATA[Udujih G. O.]]>;
<![CDATA[Mato B. D. M.]]>
<![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.v2i2.5516
<![CDATA[Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections affecting pregnant women, contributing significantly to maternal and fetal morbidity. In Nigeria, especially in rural areas such as Jama’a Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State, limited data exist on the burden and risk factors associated with UTIs during focused antenatal care (FANC) visits. This study assessed the percentage and risk factors of UTIs among pregnant women attending FANC visits in public secondary hospitals in Jama’a LGA, Kaduna State. A hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 301 pregnant women. Midstream urine samples were collected and cultured on Cysteine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient (CLED) agar. Socio-demographic and clinical data were obtained through structured questionnaires. Chi-square tests were used to determine associations between demographic variables and UTI occurrence at a 5% significance level. The percentage of UTIs among the study population was 28.6%. Escherichia coli (45.3%) was the most frequently isolated organism, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (19.8%) and Staphylococcus aureus (16.3%). Statistically significant risk factors associated with UTI were maternal age ≥35 years (AOR=1.91; p=0.041), parity ≥4 (AOR=2.14; p=0.006), prior history of UTI (AOR=3.42; p<0.001), and poor perineal hygiene practices (AOR=1.78; p=0.027). The study revealed a high percentage of UTIs among pregnant women in Jama’a LGA. Regular screening, targeted interventions for high-risk groups, and improved hygiene education during FANC visits are recommended to reduce the burden of UTIs in pregnancy.]]>
<![CDATA[Persistent Threat of Lassa Fever in Nigeria: Epidemiology, Challenges, and Strategies for Effective Management ]]>
<![CDATA[Tensaba Andes Akafa]]>;
<![CDATA[Artu Ishishen John]]>;
<![CDATA[Gloria Omonefe Oladele]]>;
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>
<![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.v2i2.5517
<![CDATA[Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease that poses a significant public health threat in Nigeria and West Africa. This review assesses the epidemiological trends, health impacts, and socioeconomic consequences of Lassa fever in Nigeria while proposing strategies for effective management and prevention. The natural reservoir of the Lassa virus, the multimammate rat (Mastomys natalensis), is prevalent in Nigerian households, facilitating transmission through direct contact with the rodents or their excreta, which often contaminates food. Consumption of these rats as a delicacy further exacerbates the risk. Current epidemiological data reveal that Lassa fever is endemic in Nigeria, with seasonal outbreaks primarily occurring in the dry season. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported 80 deaths and 413 confirmed cases across 11 states during Epidemiological Week 6 of 2025, with Taraba, Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo states accounting for over 73% of these cases. The Case Fatality Rate (CFR) for Lassa fever has risen to 19.4% in 2025, compared to 17.5% in 2024, likely due to factors such as underreporting and limited healthcare access. Notably, the CFR can range from 1% to 50%, influenced by healthcare access and early detection. The urgent nature of Lassa fever necessitates enhanced public health interventions, community education, and effective surveillance systems to mitigate its incidence and socioeconomic impact in Nigeria, thereby contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal target 3.3 to eliminate epidemics of Lassa fever and other neglected tropical diseases by 2030.]]>
<![CDATA[Demographic Factors Influencing the Utilization of Focused Antenatal Care Services in Jama'a Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Peter Francis Yaki]]>;
<![CDATA[Nworuh B. O.]]>;
<![CDATA[Udujih G. O.]]>;
<![CDATA[Mato B. D. M.]]>
<![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.v2i2.5577
<![CDATA[Focused Antenatal Care (FANC) is a critical intervention designed to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes by ensuring timely and appropriate healthcare during pregnancy. Despite its benefits, utilization remains sub-optimal in many low-resource settings, including Nigeria This study assessed the influence of demographic factors on the utilization of FANC services among pregnant women attending public secondary hospitals in Jama’a Local Government Area (LGA), Kaduna State. A hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 301 pregnant women using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires. The data collected included socio-demographic information and FANC attendance history. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were employed for data analysis using SPSS version 23. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The study found that only 10.6% of respondents completed at least four antenatal visits as recommended by the World Health Organization. Significant demographic predictors of FANC utilization included age (p=0.003), parity (p=0.002), educational status (p=0.001), and ethnicity (p=0.027). Women aged 25–34 years, with 1–3 children, and with secondary or tertiary education were more likely to complete four or more ANC visits. FANC utilization in Jama’a LGA is low, and key demographic factors significantly influence its uptake. Interventions targeting less-educated, younger, and high-parity women are needed to improve ANC attendance and maternal health outcomes in the Jama’a LGA, and Kaduna State in general.]]>
