Department of Medicine & Surgery

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A case study of a circulating vaccine derived polio virus in a Nomad in Zaria – Kaduna state, Nigeria
(World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2020-02-02) Tukur Mustapha; Bakam Clement Kure; Balarabe Hadiza; Ogundeko Timothy Olugbenga; Bassi Amos Paul; Ramyil Mamzhil Seljul Crown; Dominic Bawa Maikaje
Immunization regarding polio has yielded quite a tremendous positive impact as a result of campaigns and involvement of various stake holders from the grass root to the federal level in Nigeria. Interventions from international agencies and organizations in light of synergic partnership with Nigeria in order to tackle polio cannot be overemphasized. All these have helped to place Nigeria as one of the polio – free nations in the world. This was retrospective case study involving a 2 year old female orphan who was moved from a hygiene and sanitation- deficient and non-immune susceptible settlement fulani settlement in Kubau LGA to Anguwan Alkali community in Zaria in order to live with her grandmother. She was taken to Babban Dodo PHC in Zaria for community management of acute malnutrition programme as a malnourished child. The child was claimed to have been vaccinated. On the 18th of August 2018, the Assistant District Nursing officer of Zaria LGA, Kaduna State, Nigeria was notified about case of a sudden onset of left limb flaccid paralysis that started on the 17th of August 2018. The case was reported to the Kaduna state ministry of health. After fitting the AFP case definition. Stool sample was taken for laboratory investigation. The sample was sent to the National Level Polio Immunization Laboratory at the University of Ibadan on the 21st August 2018. The laboratory test results came out positive for cVDPV2. Results from the community survey also showed that most of the catchment settlement for PHC Anguwan Alkali has RI coverage of less than 70%. The detection of the cVDPV2 strains underscores the importance of maintaining high level of often Routine Immunization coverage at all levels to minimize the risk and consequences of any poliovirus circulation in Zaria LGA-Nigeria
A Clinicopathological Pattern Of Tumoral Calcinosis In Maiduguri, North Eastern Nigeria
(The Internet Journal of Third World Medicine, 2005-06-28) Gali Bata Mtaku; Nggada H; Mshelia D
Background: Tumoral calcinosis is a rare disease reported mainly among blacks of African descent with paucity literature in Africa. Aims and Objective: This study aims at reviewing the clinicopathological pattern of Tumoral calcinosis in Maiduguri Northeastern Nigeria. Methods: All histologically diagnosed cases of Tumoral calcinosis were retrieved and reviewed at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital between January 1994 and December 2003. Results: There were twelve diagnosed cases of Tumoral calcinosis. All age groups were affected except the pediatrics age group. The age ranges between 15 and 70 years with a mean age of 38.5 years. There was no sex predilection. Multiple sites occurred in three patients with two recurrences. The commonest site is the hip joint and one unusual site, which is the scrotum. Surgical excision was performed on all patients with recurrences. Conclusions: Tumoral calcinosis is a rare benign lesion and most of the lesions are asymptomatic. However, morbidity may be related to the size, location and secondary infection. Early and adequate wide surgical excision is essential to avoid the morbidity and recurrence.
A Review of Child Health
(NUMSA International Journal of Medicine and Health Education, 2025-02-02) Wunti,Maryam Jibrin; Oranwusi, Emmanuel
This paper provides an in-depth exploration of child health, highlighting the key determinants that influence physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development from birth through adolescence. It discusses biological, environmental, and socio-economic factors, while also addressing the importance of growth monitoring, nutrition, and developmental milestones. The paper reviews common childhood diseases, both infectious and non-communicable, as well as the role of immunization and preventive care in reducing morbidity and mortality. Further, it emphasizes the significance of mental health, environmental determinants, and child health in emergency situations. National and global health initiatives, including the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI), are examined as frameworks for improving child health outcomes. The conclusion underscores the need for investment, policy development, and community involvement to safeguard child health as a foundation for future societal well-being.
A Review of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Nigeria
(NUMSA International Journal of Medicine and Health Education, 2025-02-02) Oranwusi, Emmanuel; Ibrahim, Abdul-Azeez O.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a critical global health challenge, with Nigeria bearing one of the heaviest burdens in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART) and prevention strategies, approximately 1.9 million people in Nigeria are living with HIV as of 2020. The virus, transmitted primarily through unprotected sexual contact, mother-to-child transmission, and contaminated needles, progressively impairs the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if untreated. This review examines the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HIV, with a particular focus on its impact in Nigeria. Persistent challenges such as stigma, limited access to ART, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic barriers continue to undermine effective control. Strengthening surveillance, expanding ART access, promoting public education, and achieving UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets are essential to mitigating the epidemic’s impact and advancing toward ending AIDS as a public health threat.
Antifertility Efficacy of n-Hexane Seed Extract of Ricinus communis Var Minor in Wistar Rats Uterus In Vitro
(Path of Science, 2024-06-02) Sanni, Ayuba Clagba; Moritiwon, Olusayo; Ogundeko, Timothy Olugbenga; Ramyil, Seljul Mamzhi Crown; Bassi Amos Paul; Okwuasaba, Francis Kanayo
The seed of Ricinus communis var minor (RICOM 1013-J) is a popular contraceptive among the tribal women in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. Several reports have confirmed the efficacy and safety of different fractions of RICOM 1013-J, particularly the n-Hexane fraction. RICOM 1013-J appears to possess a unique contraceptive effect. This study aimed to provide further insight into the impact of RICOM 1013-J on the reproductive organs compared with the activity profile of some uterotonic drugs. A total of 20 adult albino rats (15 females and five males) weighing 150-200 g were initially divided into five groups of 3 female rats each with treatments via the oral route as follows: Groups A (2ml olive oil), others n-Hexane extract of Ricinus communis seeds (RICOM 1013-J) B (5 mg/kg), C (10 mg/kg), D (20 mg/kg) and E (30 mg/kg). After three days, the five male rats were introduced into each group (ratio of 3 females to 1 male per cage) till the end of experiments for mating. The effect of the pretreatment with the n-hexane extract of RICOM 1013-J on the rat uterus was evaluated after days 10, 30, 60 and 90. RICOM 1013-J (20 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg) demonstrated potent anti-conceptive effects, protecting female Wister albino rats against pregnancy for over five gestational periods. RICOM 1013-J statistically altered the regular basal activity of the uterus in a time-dependent manner (10, 30, 60 and 90 days pretreatment). Furthermore, pretreatment with RICOM 1013-J decreased the reactivity of the uterus to some uterotonic drugs, including oxytocin (2x10-3 iu/ml), ergometrine (1x10-3 mg/ml), misoprostol (2x10-3 mg/ml), Ach (1x10-5 gm/ml) and potassium chloride (1x10-3 gm/ml). The contraction to misoprostol and potassium chloride in the uterus was abolished on day 90 of pretreatment. This study has demonstrated the dose-dependent efficacy of RICOM 1013-J in protecting against pregnancy for over five gestation periods in rats. This protective effect may be due to the alterations in the activity profile of smooth muscle quiescence and inertia in the uterus. In addition, the changes in the responsiveness of the uterus to the uterotonic drugs further confirm the anti-conceptive effects of RICOM 1013-J.
Appraisal of Antibiotic Prescribing Profile of Patients sent for Laboratory Investigations in a Tertiary Hospital, Jos - Nigeria
(IOSRPHR, 2020-11-02) Ogundeko, T.O.; Builders, M.; Ramyil, M.S.C.; Adu, P.J; Onuwe, A.A.; Ogbole, E.A.; Onubi, J.; Bassi Amos Paul; Bello, C.S.S.; Sokomba, E.N.
Background: The danger associated with unguided and unmonitored prescribing of antibiotics in health institutions calls for antibiotic policies in order to avoid deviation from the standard recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Institutions that uphold compliance should be highly commended. This study was aimed to evaluate the prescribing pattern of antibiotics in Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BHUTH), Jos Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Trend and adherence-check on antibiotics prescriptions in compliance with the WHO and the institutions essential drug lists (IEDL), identification of prevalent infections especially from clients sent to the laboratory for various investigations before prescriptions were reviewed from 620 Hospital cards of the General Out-Patients Department (GOPD). Results: Gender distribution was females 343(55.3%) than males 277 (44.7%), with the majority age range of 25-34 years 227 (36.6%). From a total of 820 (single and multiple requests), stool specimen 257 (31%) was the highest, followed by urine, blood and sputum. Though, the females had higher percentage of request from the GOPD of BHUTH, but with no significant difference between the number of laboratory investigations in relation to gender at p<0.05 (p=0.7022). In addition, the most frequently prescribed class of antibiotics was Quinolones (51.8%). This was followed by Penicillins (21.6%), Sulfonamides (13.5%), Tetracyclins (12.2%) and Cephalosphorins (0.9%) respectively from monotherapy (90.5%) and multiple therapies (9.5%). Also, there is no significant difference between the category of antibiotics prescribed and gender at p<0.05 (p=0.6788) in BHUTH. The most common indication for antibiotics prescribing was respiratory tract infections (26.3%). Present study indicated significant relationship between gender and common diagnoses to antibiotics prescribing at p<0.05 (p=3.88) in BHUTH. All (100%) prescribed antibiotics were found in both WHO and BHUTH Essential Drug Lists. Conclusion: This study points out good compliance antibiotic prescribing practice with WHO and institutional recommended standards. It further showed that females are prescribed with antibiotics more than their male counterparts.
Assessment of Knowledge of Basic Life Support Among Health Workers in Some Hospitals of the Federal Capital Territory Administration
(Nile University of Nigeria, 2025-01-02) Nwokorie, R.M.; Yakubu, S.Y.; Ekeng Offiong
Background: Basic life support (BLS) is the emergency care given to patients who have had cardiac arrest. It can be provided by trained or lay people. It maintains a patient’s life pending diagnosis and treatment. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among all health workers in some Federal Capital Territory Administration hospitals. Using an online survey tool, the Google form, we evaluated their knowledge of the 2020 American Heart Society guidelines of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and their conduct of CPR and noted their profession and years of practice. Completion of the form was voluntary and confidential. Results: The data was obtained from 188 health workers. Eighty-four (44.7%) were doctors, 79 (42%) were nurses and 25 (13.3%) were other health workers. The percentage of respondents irrespective of profession who got each question right ranged from 3.20 to 86.70%. The mean score was 50.31 ± 17.42%. Conclusion: Insufficient knowledge of cardiac arrest among health professionals is high. The relationship between profession and knowledge of BLS was found to be statistically significant. (p< 0.001) The relationship between years of practice and knowledge of BLS was not found to be statistically significant. (p = 0.290).
Bacterial and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of urinary tract infection isolated from asymptomatic and symptomatic diabetic patients attending tertiary hospital in Jos, Nigeria
(Trends in Medicine, 2017-11-23) Panshak Barnabas Bakwet; Seljul Mamzhi-Crown Ramyil; Joseph Anejo-Okopi; Bassi Amos Paul; Godwin Agada; Segun David Adeniyi; Juliet Okechalu; Ocheme Julius Okojokwu
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection caused by the presence and growth of microorganisms in the urinary tract. In most cases empirical antimicrobial treatment is usually initiated before the laboratory results are made available; hence the need for antibiotic susceptibility test to enhance management of UTI. The study was designed to determine the bacterial profile and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of urinary tract bacteria isolated from symptomatic and asymptomatic diabetic patients at Bingham University Teaching Hospital Jos. 100 mid-stream urine samples (app. 20 mls) were aseptically collected into sterile containers after informed consent of diabetic patients of ages 20 years and above were analyzed at Central Diagnostic Laboratory NVRI Vom. The isolates were identified using standard bacteriological techniques after been cultured on MacConkey and CLED agars. Antibiotic sensitivity testing was done in accordance with NCCLS disc diffusion methods. The results were then analyzed using chi square test. Of the 100 urine samples, different bacterial uropathogens were isolated, with a prevalence of 40%. The bacteria isolates were; Coagulase negative Staphylococci (CNS) (37.5%), Escherichia coli (24%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (12.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (15%) and Streptococcus spp (10%). Esherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were highly resistant to most antibiotics used, while coagulase negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus spp were highly sensitive to most antibiotics used in this study. Self-medication including antibiotics is clearly a major culprit. Behavioral Change Communication to all stake holders is increased to cover all radio and TV stations in the state. In addition, investigations (routine microscopy, culture and sensitivity of urine) be completed before treatment is commenced in order to mitigate acquisition and spread of drug resistance by bacteria.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer differentiation via platelet to lymphocyte ratio
(IOS Press, 2015-02-02) Kaynar Mehmet; Yildirim Mehmet Erol; Gul Murat; Kilic Ozcan; Ceylan Kadir; Goktas Serdar
The aim of the current study is to evaluate NLR and PLR inflammation markers in PCa and BPH.Clinical and pathological data such as age, prostate volume, PSA, NLR, and PLR levels of 201 patients were retrospectively reviewed. Pathological sample results of these patients were categorized either as benign or malign. The benign group consisted of chronic prostatitis and BPH and the malign group of PCa. The PSA levels were divided into three categories as PSA: 0-4 ng/ml, PSA: 4-10 ng/ml, and 10 ng/ml and above.In the benign category, the mean PLR values for PSA: 0-4 ng/ml is 131.8 ± 31.2, for PSA: 4-10 ng/ml 124.7 ± 83.9 and 10 ng/ml and above 124 ± 53 in chronic prostatitis group and in the BPH group for PSA: 4-10 ng/ml 120.3 ± 45.1, for PSA: 4-10 ng/ml 126 ± 54.2, and 10 ng/ml and above 191.4 ± 176.1. In the malign category, the mean PLR values of PCa patients is for PSA: 0-4 ng/ml 122.8 ± 43.8, for PSA: 4-10 ng/ml 123 ± 43.8, and above 10 ng/ml 179.1 ± 94. Related to the variables of age, NLR, and mean prostate volume, there were no statistically significant differences. Statistically significant differences were observed in the mean PLR values only if the PSA level was 10 ng/ml and above (p: 0.044) in the BPH and PCa groups. The correlation of the PCa Gleason score and PSA, NLR and PLR parameters in the malign category revealed no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05).Effective malign and benign differentiation of prostate pathologies based on noninvasive inflammation biomarkers such NLR and PLR necessitate clinical studies with larger patient series.
Breastfeeding
(NUMSA International Journal of Medicine and Health Education, 2025-02-02) Franklin, Favour; Oranwusi, Emmanuel; Wunti, Maryam Jibrin
This paper provides a comprehensive overview of breastfeeding, emphasizing its nutritional, emotional, psychological, and socio-economic importance for both mother and child. It highlights various breastfeeding positions, the nutritional and immunological benefits of breast milk, and the long-term health outcomes for infants and mothers. The study explores challenges associated with breastfeeding, including anatomical, physiological, and societal barriers, as well as the role of breast milk substitutes when necessary. Furthermore, it discusses the global perspective and initiatives by the WHO and UNICEF to promote exclusive breastfeeding through the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative. The conclusion reinforces breastfeeding as a natural, cost-effective, and vital practice that requires societal support, education, and healthcare policies to ensure its sustainability and universal adoption.
Challenges and Strategies for MPOX Management in Low Resource Settings
(Nile University of Nigeria, 2025-01-02) Medugu Nubwa; Jibril Imran; Israel-Aliu Olaitan; Nwajiobi, P.P.; Mohammed, Y.; Nwafia, I.N.; Adegboro Boaz
Mpox remains a persistent threat in low-resource settings, where overstretched healthcare systems, inadequate laboratory infrastructure, and limited vaccine availability complicate control efforts. Diagnosing Mpox in such contexts is often delayed by fragmented supply chains, unreliable power sources, and insufficient numbers of trained personnel. In addition, geographic inaccessibility and high out-of-pocket costs impede patients from seeking timely care. Sociocultural challenges—particularly stigma, misinformation, and vaccine hesitancy—further undermine prevention strategies. Humanitarian crises, characterized by overcrowding, malnutrition, and disrupted healthcare services, amplify disease spread by exacerbating vulnerabilities and impeding coordinated responses. To address these multifaceted barriers, strengthening diagnostic capacity through the deployment of point-of-care tests, mobile laboratories, and targeted training programs emerges as a critical priority. Concurrently, improving healthcare access via task-shifting approaches and infrastructural investments can help integrate Mpox management into essential health services. Equitable vaccine distribution—bolstered by international partnerships, cold chain innovations, and community-based education—holds significant promise for curbing transmission. Ultimately, robust community engagement initiatives that emphasize culturally tailored public education campaigns and localized surveillance can reduce stigma, increase awareness, and enhance early detection. By adopting these targeted strategies, low-resource regions can build resilience against Mpox outbreaks and better prepare for future public health emergencies.
Child Survival Strategy
(NUMSA International Journal of Medicine and Health Education, 2025-02-02) Isabella, Damilola Oluwademilade; Osaze-Ogedegbe, Adaora Radiance
This paper examines child survival strategies, focusing on interventions designed to reduce morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age. It highlights UNICEF’s framework and the GOBIFFFETH approach, which includes growth monitoring, oral rehydration therapy, breastfeeding, immunization, female education, family planning, food fortification, environmental protection, essential drug provision, treatment of common ailments, and health education. The paper discusses national and global policies such as the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) and Integrated Community Case Management (ICCM), as well as the role of health systems, government, and community-based interventions in improving child survival outcomes. Challenges such as inadequate funding, limited healthcare access, socio-economic barriers, and political instability are also analyzed. The conclusion emphasizes that investing in child survival is a moral and developmental imperative, requiring collaboration across governments, health systems, and communities to secure sustainable progress in reducing under-five mortality.
Cholera
(NUMSA International Journal of Medicine and Health Education, 2025-02-02) Rakiya, Sule Alhassan; Eniola, Adejumo; Bassey, Imaobong; Agan, Grace Ripeh
Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae, transmitted primarily through contaminated water and food. This review provides a comprehensive overview of cholera, tracing its historical pandemics, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations. It highlights the global and local burden of cholera, with emphasis on recurrent outbreaks in Nigeria, where poor sanitation, flooding, and limited healthcare infrastructure exacerbate transmission and mortality. The discussion explores diagnostic methods, treatment strategies such as oral rehydration therapy, intravenous fluids, and antibiotics, alongside preventive measures including vaccination, improved water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. The paper further examines global efforts to combat cholera, notably the WHO’s “Ending Cholera: A Global Roadmap to 2030,” and outlines challenges such as climate change, vaccine shortages, and weak healthcare systems. Despite advances in treatment and prevention, cholera remains a major public health threat, necessitating coordinated interventions, strengthened surveillance, and sustained global commitment to reduce mortality and achieve long-term control.
Communities’ Awareness, Perception and Participation in the Community-Based Medical Education of the University of Maiduguri
(Taylor and Francis, 2006-07-02) Omotara, B. A.; Yahya, S. J.; Shehu, U.; Bello, H. S.; Bassi Amos Paul
Background: Community-based medical education (CBME) is no longer a new innovation in medical education since the establishment of The Network: Towards Unity for Health (The Network: TUFH) 25 years ago. The CBME of the University of Maiduguri medical college is 14 years old and has never been assessed in terms of the population it serves. The study was conducted to determine the level of awareness, perception, and participation of the communities in CBME. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out in 11 village units of three Local Government Areas (LGAs) using a 14-item structured questionnaire administered to adults in randomly selected households. The questionnaire was based on guide questions used for focus group discussions held earlier with community leaders. Results: Awareness of students’ visits among respondents was 73.7%. Knowledge of the frequency of presence of the students in the communities was 72.2%. ‘‘To examine and treat’’ (33.6%) and ‘‘to ask questions’’ (16.6%) were the most prominent reasons given for the visits. The majority of respondents perceived the visits as beneficial (72.2%). More frequent visits were requested by 54.4% of the respondents. The communities were willing to be more accessible and felt that the LGAs should provide more logistic support to the program. Discussion: This study revealed that communities were aware of students’ visits and knew reasons for the visits, thought visits were beneficial, and were willing to provide more support for these visits.
Comparative laboratory diagnosis of malaria
(GSC Online Press, 2022-11-23) Aminat Omope Yusuf; Timothy Olugbenga Ogundeko; Mamzil Seljul Crown Ramyil; Catherine Nadabo; Philemon Adu; Olusegun Godwin Adeniyi; Bassi Amos Paul
Laboratory diagnosis of malaria is a vital key for its effective management. Diagnosis of malaria includes rapid, sensitive, and specific test methods. This study was aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of PfHRP2 rapid malaria test with reference to light microscopy for the diagnosis of malaria at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BhUTH) Jos –Plateau State, Nigeria. A total of 150 febrile patients attending BHUTH who were sent to the Hospital Laboratory from the General out patients Department (GOPD) for malaria parasite test (MPT)request had their blood sample collected and tested for malaria parasites (MP) using Field Stain A and B stain microscopy and PfHRP2 rapid malaria test between September and November 2021.Results shows that the sensitivity and specificity of PfHRP2 rapid malaria were 9.23% and 90.0% respectively, with corresponding positive and negative predictive values (PPV) as 90.0%and (NPV) as13. 2%. PfHRP2 rapid malaria test showed good sensitivity and specificity that is in agreement with that of the reference light microscopy. The rapid diagnostic test (RDT) results compared well with the light microscopy (Gold standard) for Laboratory diagnosis for malaria. Sustained use of RDT as an alternative to light microscopy is recommended especially in malaria endemic areas and the rural communities where electricity is out of reach.
Comparison of the efficacy of diclofenac, acupuncture, and acetaminophen in the treatment of renal colic
(Elsevier Inc, 2015-02-19) Kaynar Mehmet; Koyuncu Ferudun; Buldu Ibrahim; Tekinarslan Erdem; Tepeler Abdulkadir; Karatağ Tuna; İstanbulluoğlu Mustafa Okan; Ceylan, Kadir
The objective is to compare the analgesic effects of diclofenac, acetaminophen, and acupuncture in urolithiasis-driven renal colic pain relief.Renal colic patients were divided randomly into 3 groups. Patients in group I (n = 40) were treated with intravenous acetaminophen, those in group II (n = 41) with acupuncture, and those in group III (n = 40) with a 75-mg intramuscular injection diclofenac sodium. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and verbal rating scale (VRS) were used to assess pain intensity after 10, 30, 60, and 120 minutes.No significant differences in baseline VAS or VRS were found with regard to age or sex. After 10 minutes, all 3 groups experienced a significant decrease in VAS and VRS scores, with the most drastic decrease occurring in group II. After 30 minutes, there was a significantly higher decrease in group III than in group I (P = .001). After 60 minutes, mean VAS scores of groups I and III (P = .753) were similar. The mean VAS score of group III was lower than that of group II (P = .013). After 120 minutes, the difference in the VAS scores was (P = .000) between groups I and II and between groups II and III. Yet, the VAS evaluation made after 120 minutes revealed statistically similar outcomes for groups I and III (P = .488). The statistical findings for VRS evaluations made after 10, 30, 60, and 120 were similar to those for VAS.In renal colic patients with a possible nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and acetaminophen side effect risk, acupuncture emerges as an alternative treatment modality.
Congenital aganglionic megacolon in Nigerian adults
(Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice, 2011-06-02) Bakari AA; Gali Bata Mtaku; Ibrahim AG; Nggada HA; Ali N; Dogo D; Abubakar AM
Congenital aganglionic mega colon (Hirschsprung’s disease) is a motor disorder in the gut, due to a defect in the craniocaudal migration of the neuroblast originating from the neural crest that occurs during the first twelve weeks of gestation, causing a functional intestinal obstruction, with its attendant complications, in infants. Despite modern pediatric practice, with emphasis on early diagnosis, Hirschsprung’s disease is seen in adults in regions where perinatal care is limited. We report two cases of Nigerian adults with longstanding, recurrent constipation, getting relieved by laxatives and herbal enemata, and then presented to our Emergency Department with a history of progressive abdominal distention, colicky pain, occasional vomiting, and weight loss. Per rectal examination revealed a gripping sensation in the rectum, 10cm from the anal verge, with rectal fecal load. Barium enema showed a grossly distended proximal large colon, with high fecal retention, with the transition zone at the middle one-third of the rectum. Due to difficulty in bowel preparation of these patients, emergency laparotomy was done. The first case had a diverting sigmoid colostomy and later had a low anterior resection. The second case had a one-stage procedure. Histology of both the cases showed aganglionosis of the stenotic segment and a normal distal rectum. Both patients had complete resolution of the symptoms, without complications, in a three-year follow-up. The related literatures were reviewed. Hirschsprung’s disease should be considered in adults patient presenting with chronic constipation. Low anterior resection of the rectum would be a surgical option for the treatment of short and zonal segment of adult Hirschsprung’s disease.
Cord care among mothers of sub-urban Lewllem community of Jos South LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria
(African Journal of Pharmaceutical Research & Development, 2018-02-02) Isah, H.O.; Bassi Amos Paul; Chima, G.
Care of the cord is a known determinant of an infant’s well-being in neonatal life period, and when not according to standard frequently results in high prevalence of neonatal infections and complications, some fatal. This study sought to determine the practice of cord care among mothers of Lewllem Community of Jos South LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria. This was a community-based descriptive cross-sectional study among 300 women of reproductive age group 15-49 years with children less than 5 years of age. Substances commonly applied to cord of babies, reasons for cord care, respondents’ age, educational status and ANC attendance were determined. Along with tables and proportions, associations between respondents’ educational and age status and type of substances, reasons for cord care and duration for cord care with significant level at pV < 0.05 were determined. Methylated spirit (57.60%), Vaseline (39.22%), warm water salt solution (16.61%), plain warm water (9.54%) and herbs/native preparation (1.77%) were found in use with achieving the shrivel (drying) of the cord (50.33%), prevention of cord infection (28.33%), timely detachment of the cord (22.67%) and prevention of development of bad odor by cord (2.33%) as reasons for cord care. There was no statistical significant association between educational attainment and choice of the substances (pV = 0.1656), respondents’ age and reasons for cord care (pV = 0.9226), educational attainment and reasons for cord care (pV = 0.3006) and educational attainment and duration of cord care (pV = 1.0000). Presence of a health facility within study setting and 95.5% ANC attendance rate did not impact on respondents’ choices of appropriate substances and informed reasons for cord care. Quality of MCH services made available to pregnant mothers by the health facility, and skills of service providers will require review for remedial measures.
Countdown to 2015: Tracking Maternal and Child Health Intervention Targets Using Lot Quality Assurance Sampling in Bauchi State Nigeria
(PLoS ONE, 2015-06-18) Dele Abegunde; Nosa Orobaton; Habib Sadauki; Bassi Amos Paul; Ibrahim A. Kabo; Masduq Abdulkarim
Improving maternal and child health remains a top priority in Nigeria's Bauchi State in the northeastern region where the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and infant mortality rate (IMR) are as high as 1540 per 100,000 live births and 78 per 1,000 live births respectively. In this study, we used the framework of the continuum of maternal and child care to evaluate the impact of interventions in Bauchi State focused on improved maternal and child health, and to ascertain progress towards the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) 4 and 5.At baseline (2012) and then at follow-up (2013), we randomly sampled 340 households from 19 random locations in each of the 20 Local Government Areas (LGA) of Bauchi State in Northern Nigeria, using the Lot Quality Assurance Sampling (LQAS) technique. Women residents in the households were interviewed about their own health and that of their children. Estimated LGA coverage of maternal and child health indicators were aggregated across the State. These values were then compared to the national figures, and the differences from 2012 to 2014 were calculated.For several of the indicators, a modest improvement from baseline was found. However, the indicators in the continuum of care neither reached the national average nor attained the 90% globally recommended coverage level. The majority of the LGA surveyed were classifiable as high priority, thus requiring intensified efforts and programmatic scale up.Intensive scale-up of programs and interventions is needed in Bauchi State, Northern Nigeria, to accelerate, consolidate and sustain the modest but significant achievements in the continuum of care, if MDGs 4 and 5 are to be achieved by the end of 2015. The intentional focus of LGAs as the unit of intervention ought to be considered a condition precedent for future investments. Priority should be given to the re-allocating resources to program areas and regions where coverage has been low. Finally, systematic considerations need to be given to the design of strategies that address the demand for health services.
Determinants and Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Abuja, North Central Nigeria
(Nile University of Nigeria, 2025-01-02) Onyegbutulem Chijioke Henry; Muhammadu Mai Aminu; Henry-Onyegbutulem, P.I.; Usman, F.A.; Ugeh, U.I.; Dalhatu, H.H.
Background: The surge in the global prevalence of diabetes Mellitus is driven by modifiable factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and poor dietary habits. Non-modifiable factors include family history and advancing age. Epidemiologic transition which encourages an atherogenic diet helps to drive this trend. The surge, even though a global phenomenon, may continue mostly in low-income countries, Nigeria included. This study examined the current prevalence of diabetes and drivers in Abuja, the Nigerian capital city. Methods: Leveraging the World Diabetes Day exercises for the years 2018, 2022, and 2023, consenting participants were recruited from three locations, mainly suburbs, across the city for this cross-sectional study. A structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO STEPS tool was used. Results: 385 participants with a mean age of 48.7 + 12.18 years were involved. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 5.2%. Determinants were poor dietary habits (p<0.05) and the use of beta-blockers and thiazide diuretics (p<0.05) as antihypertensive agents. Conclusions: Diabetes prevalence was 5.2% with driving factors such as poor dietary habits, the use of beta-blockers, and thiazide diuretics as antihypertensive drugs being prominent. Appropriate dietary counseling and proper selection of antihypertensives may help prevent diabetes mellitus in Abuja.