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High Altitude Medicine & Biology Jul 2024
PubMed: 38957954
DOI: 10.1089/ham.2024.0093 -
Ghana Medical Journal Dec 2023To determine the prevalence and severity of anaemia and assess the relationship between dietary lifestyle, hypoalbuminaemia, and anaemia of older persons.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the prevalence and severity of anaemia and assess the relationship between dietary lifestyle, hypoalbuminaemia, and anaemia of older persons.
DESIGN
A cross-sectional hospital-based study.
SETTING
This study was conducted in the General Outpatient Clinic, the primary care unit of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano, Nigeria.
PARTICIPANTS
A total of 378 patients aged ≥ 60 years who presented to the General Out-patient Clinic.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Prevalence and severity of anaemia, relationship between anaemia and hypoalbuminaemia, and dietary lifestyle of the participants.
RESULTS
A total of 348 respondents completed the study. The mean age of respondents was 67.83 ±7.53 years, with female (60.9%) predominance. The prevalence of anaemia and hypoalbuminaemia were 42.2% and 17.8%, respectively. Hypoalbuminaemia (β=0.335, 95%CI=0.131-0.229, <0.001), long duration of comorbidities (β= -0.179, 95%CI= -0.165-0.047, <0.001), one full meal/day (β=0.130, 95%CI=0.224-1.879, =0.013), and low monthly income (β=0.122, 95%CI=0.179-1.543, =0.026) were the predictors of anaemia among the older persons in this study.
CONCLUSION
This study revealed a high prevalence of anaemia among older adults. The identified predictors, such as hypoalbuminaemia, long duration of comorbidities, reduced food intake and low monthly income, will be useful in developing guidelines and strategies for managing the condition in primary care settings and other similar sites.
FUNDING
None declared.
Topics: Humans; Female; Nigeria; Male; Aged; Hypoalbuminemia; Cross-Sectional Studies; Middle Aged; Anemia; Prevalence; Primary Health Care; Life Style; Diet; Aged, 80 and over
PubMed: 38957852
DOI: 10.4314/gmj.v57i4.7 -
Ghana Medical Journal Dec 2023The study aimed to determine the prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics among attendants of the Out-patient Department (OPD) at Madina Polyclinic before seeking...
OBJECTIVES
The study aimed to determine the prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics among attendants of the Out-patient Department (OPD) at Madina Polyclinic before seeking medical consultation and associated factors.
DESIGN
Cross-sectional study.
SETTING
The study was conducted at Madina Polyclinic.
PARTICIPANTS
The study involved 319 general OPD attendants aged 18 years and above accessing healthcare services at the Madina Polyclinic between May and June 2019.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
The prevalence of antibiotic self-medication and the factors associated with this practice.
RESULTS
From the study, 46.4% (95% CI 40.8%- 52.0%) had self-medicated with antibiotics before presenting for medical consultation at the hospital. Less than half of the respondents (44.5%) had adequate knowledge about the use of antibiotics. Having a tertiary level of education was significantly associated with self-medication (aOR= 8.09, 95% CI 2.31-28.4, p = 0.001), whilst adequate knowledge on the use of antibiotics reduced the odds of self-medication by 53% (aOR= 0.47, 95% CI 0.23- 0.66, p<0.001). The level of education modified the relationship between knowledge and self-medication with antibiotics.
CONCLUSION
The practice of antibiotic self-medication is rife among OPD attendants. Therefore, adequate public education on the use of antibiotics and the effects of using them inappropriately must be done. The Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) policy ought to be reinforced and made known to all, especially among the pharmacies that dispense antibiotics indiscriminately.
FUNDING
None declared.
Topics: Humans; Self Medication; Male; Female; Adult; Cross-Sectional Studies; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Middle Aged; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Young Adult; Outpatients; Adolescent; Aged; Educational Status
PubMed: 38957850
DOI: 10.4314/gmj.v57i4.8 -
Ghana Medical Journal Dec 2023To compare clinical characteristics of COVID-19 among vaccinated and unvaccinated patients in a major treatment facility in Ghana. (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
OBJECTIVES
To compare clinical characteristics of COVID-19 among vaccinated and unvaccinated patients in a major treatment facility in Ghana.
DESIGN
A retrospective study drawing on data from COVID-19 patients' records visiting the facility from March 2021 to December 2021.
SETTING
Ghana Infectious Disease Centre, Ga East Municipality, Greater Accra Region, Ghana.
PARTICIPANTS
In-patients and outpatients who reported to the facility from 1st March 2021 to December 2021 were included in the study, and patients with missing data on vaccination were excluded.
OUTCOME MEASURES
underlying conditions, symptoms, case management information, hospital service rendered (OPD, HDU or ICU), length of hospital stay, treatment outcome.
RESULTS
The study included 775 patient records comprising 615 OPD and 160 hospitalised cases. Less than one-third (26.25%; 42) of the patients hospitalised were vaccinated compared to almost 40.0% (39.02%; 240) of the patients seen at the OPD. Vaccinated individuals were nearly three times (aOR = 2.72, 95%CI:1.74-4.25) more likely to be managed on an outpatient basis as compared to the unvaccinated. The death rate among the vaccinated group and the unvaccinated were (0.71%; 2) and (3.45%; 17), respectively, with a significant reduction in the risk of dying among the vaccinated compared to the unvaccinated (aOR = 0.13, 95%CI: 0.028 0.554).
CONCLUSIONS
Less than half of the in-patient and OPD patients were vaccinated. Mild infections, fewer days of hospitalisation, outpatient treatment and higher chances of survival were associated with being vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. Prudent measures should be implemented to encourage the general public to take up SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
FUNDING
None declared.
Topics: Humans; COVID-19; Ghana; Male; Female; Retrospective Studies; COVID-19 Vaccines; Middle Aged; Adult; Hospitalization; Vaccination; SARS-CoV-2; Aged; Length of Stay; Young Adult; Adolescent
PubMed: 38957848
DOI: 10.4314/gmj.v57i4.6 -
Cureus Apr 2024Unilateral hypertrophy of the Tensor Fasciae Latae (TFL) muscle is a rare condition often characterized by a palpable mass in the lower limbs or hip pain. Despite its...
Unilateral hypertrophy of the Tensor Fasciae Latae (TFL) muscle is a rare condition often characterized by a palpable mass in the lower limbs or hip pain. Despite its rarity, several causative factors have been identified, necessitating accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Here, we present the case of a 53-year-old patient who sought outpatient consultation for a mass in the anterolateral aspect of the right thigh. Through this case study, we aim to contribute to the limited literature on this condition by discussing our diagnostic approach, management plan, and outcomes. Upon presentation, the patient underwent a thorough physical examination, revealing a non-tender, sessile mass seemingly originating in the deep connective tissue of the thigh. A magnetic resonance image (MRI) was performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of muscle involvement. This noninvasive modality provided valuable insights into the nature and localization of the mass, providing the diagnosis and guiding subsequent management decisions. Given the benign nature of the condition and absence of associated symptoms, conservative management was favored. Physical therapy focusing on stretching and strengthening exercises was initiated to address the underlying probable causes and improve functional capacity. Close monitoring through regular follow-up appointments was also recommended to track the progression of the hypertrophy and ensure symptomatic relief. Unilateral hypertrophy of the TFL muscle is a rare entity that presents diagnostic and management challenges. Through our case study, we have highlighted the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic workup, including imaging studies, in confirming the diagnosis and guiding management decisions. Conservative approaches, such as physical therapy, can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life in affected individuals. Continued research and documentation of cases are essential to expand our understanding of this condition and refine treatment strategies.
PubMed: 38957828
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58547 -
Ghana Medical Journal Sep 2023To determine the clinical presentation, imaging features and outcomes of children with adenoid hypertrophy in our setting.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the clinical presentation, imaging features and outcomes of children with adenoid hypertrophy in our setting.
DESIGN
A retrospective study.
SETTING
The paediatric clinic of a private hospital in Enugu.
PARTICIPANTS
51 children, aged 2 to 108 months, with suggestive clinical features and radiographic report of adenoid hypertrophy who presented over 3 years.
INTERVENTIONS
Clinical information was obtained from the patient's medical records. Data was analysed for the clinical characteristics of the patients, the relationship between the degree of airway narrowing on a postnasal space (PNS) radiograph and treatment outcomes.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Degree of airway narrowing as measured on a PNS radiograph, the type of and outcomes of treatment.
RESULTS
There was an almost equal male (54.7%): female (45.1%) ratio in the occurrence of adenoid hypertrophy, with a mean age of occurrence of 31.50 ± 3.64 months. Noisy breathing was the commonest symptom (94.1%); history of atopic rhinitis in 64.7% of cases and hyperactive airway disease in 45.1% more than 50% of cases with airway narrowing resolved with medical management only.
CONCLUSION
Adenoid hypertrophy should be considered in evaluating the upper airway in children under five. Paediatricians should be conversant with diagnosing and managing this common cause of upper airway obstruction.
FUNDING
None declared.
Topics: Humans; Adenoids; Male; Female; Nigeria; Retrospective Studies; Hypertrophy; Child, Preschool; Child; Infant; Treatment Outcome; Radiography; Adenoidectomy; Ambulatory Care Facilities; Airway Obstruction
PubMed: 38957679
DOI: 10.4314/gmj.v57i3.7 -
Dermatology Reports Jun 2024Few studies have examined pruritus in elderly patients, a common dermatological condition. The study examines pruritus prevalence and characteristics in elderly patients...
Few studies have examined pruritus in elderly patients, a common dermatological condition. The study examines pruritus prevalence and characteristics in elderly patients referred to the Dermatology Unit, at Genoa's Galliera Hospital. The demographic characteristics of all Outpatient Clinic patients with any skin condition were examined, focusing on pruritus patients over 65. Pruritus was present in 36/262 patients (14%; M:F =20:16; mean age: 59.55 years). About 14% of 140 patients aged ≥65 years had pruritus, with 20/262 (8%; M:F =14:6; mean age: 74.6 years) exhibiting it. Visual analog score pruritus did not differ between patients aged ≥65 years (20/36) and <65 years (16/36) statistically. In 89% of patients, itch was related to a dermatological condition, mainly psoriasis. Only extracutaneous diseases resulted more frequently in the patients aged >65. No anamnestic link was found between drug use and pruritus in these patients. We confirm that pruritus is a common skin problem that affects both sexes, young and old, and is almost always caused by an underlying skin condition (mainly psoriasis). It is rarely caused by a new drug.
PubMed: 38957626
DOI: 10.4081/dr.2023.9778 -
Electrolyte & Blood Pressure : E & BP Jun 2024Hyperkalemia is a frequent and potentially lethal complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We retrospectively examined the potassium-lowering effect of oral...
BACKGROUND
Hyperkalemia is a frequent and potentially lethal complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We retrospectively examined the potassium-lowering effect of oral fludrocortisone and its adverse effects in hyperkalemic CKD patients not yet on dialysis.
METHODS
Thirty-three patients (23 men and 10 women, ages 69±14 years) were included. To control hyperkalemia at the outpatient clinic, twenty-one patients (Group 1) received fludrocortisone (0.05-0.1 mg/day) without changes in angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and calcium polystyrene sulfonate (CPS), while twelve patients (Group 2) were treated with fludrocortisone in addition to stopping ARBs and/or adding low-dose CPS.
RESULTS
Fludrocortisone was administered for a median of 169 days (interquartile range, 47-445). At the first follow-up after fludrocortisone administration, serum potassium dropped from 6.14±0.32 mEq/L to 4.52±1.06 mEq/L (p<0.001) in Group 1 and from 6.37±0.35 mEq/L to 4.08±0.74 mEq/L (p<0.01) in Group 2. Ten patients in Group 1 and five patients in Group 2 measured serum potassium levels at four outpatient visits before and after fludrocortisone administration, respectively. The frequency of serum potassium ≥6.0 mEq/L decreased from 19/40 (48%) to 2/40 (5%) (p<0.001) in Group 1 and from 11/20 (55%) to 0/20 (0%) (p<0.001) in Group 2. Eleven patients experienced sodium retention-related problems after fludrocortisone administration: 7 with worsening leg edema, 2 with pleural effusions, and 2 with pulmonary edema.
CONCLUSION
In pre-dialysis CKD patients, fludrocortisone at low doses effectively reduced serum potassium levels; however, sodium retention was a common adverse effect.
PubMed: 38957547
DOI: 10.5049/EBP.2024.22.1.8 -
ATS Scholar Jun 2024
PubMed: 38957488
DOI: 10.34197/ats-scholar.2024-0058ED -
Ghana Medical Journal Mar 2024To uncover variables linked to breast cancer patient satisfaction in order to improve policy choices and actions for breast cancer care in Ghana.
OBJECTIVES
To uncover variables linked to breast cancer patient satisfaction in order to improve policy choices and actions for breast cancer care in Ghana.
DESIGN
We employed a cross-sectional design using a quantitative approach.
SETTING
The Radiotherapy, Oncology and Surgery Departments of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra.
PARTICIPANTS
Inpatient and outpatient breast cancer patients.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
The level of inpatient and outpatient satisfaction was measured using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. The Shapiro-Wilk test was employed to assess normality, while the Heckman selection model assessed significance with outcomes of interest.
RESULTS
A total of 636 participants, with a mean age of 52.64±14.07 years, were recruited. The measured inpatient and outpatient levels of satisfaction out of 100 were 74.06±7.41 and 49.99±1.00 respectively, while the self-reported satisfaction levels out of 5 were 4.22±0.63 and 4.11±0.85 respectively. The level of inpatient satisfaction was significantly influenced by age, marital status, income level, and number of previous facilities visited (p<0.05). Outpatient satisfaction level was significantly associated with place of residence and income level (p<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
The study offers insight into the satisfaction levels of breast cancer patients receiving inpatient and outpatient services at the largest tertiary referral centre and teaching hospital in Ghana, as well as the factors influencing attendance and satisfaction levels. Understanding and improving breast cancer patients' levels of satisfaction is a way that providers can safeguard their emotional well-being. Improvement in patient satisfaction at our institution among outpatients is an area for future growth.
FUNDING
Gardner-Holt Women's Health Grant program, Centre for Global Surgery 2021.
Topics: Humans; Ghana; Female; Breast Neoplasms; Middle Aged; Cross-Sectional Studies; Adult; Patient Satisfaction; Aged; Tertiary Care Centers; Outpatients; Inpatients
PubMed: 38957283
DOI: 10.4314/gmj.v58i1.3