Pathogenesis of chronic enteropathy associated with the SLCO2A1 gene:Hypotheses and conundrums

Chronic enteropathy associated with the SLCO2A1 gene(CEAS)is a complex gastroenterological condition characterized by multiple ulcers in the small intestine with chronic bleeding and protein loss.This review explores the potential mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of CEAS,focusing on the role of SLCO2A1-encoded prostaglandin transporter OATP2A1 and its impact on prostaglandin E2(PGE2)levels.Studies have suggested that elevated PGE2 levels contribute to mucosal damage,inflammation,and disruption of the intestinal barrier.The effects of PGE2 on macrophage activation and Maxi-Cl channel functionality,as well as its interaction with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs play crucial roles in the progression of CEAS.Understanding the balance between its protective and pro-inflammatory effects and the complex interactions within the gastrointestinal tract can shed light on potential therapeutic targets for CEAS and guide the development of novel,targeted therapies.

Factors Associated with Renal Impairment in Patients on Tenofovir for Chronic Hepatitis B in Yaoundé (Cameroon)

Background: Tenofovir (TFV) is widely used to treat patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. But kidney abnormalities are the main concern using this drug. Few studies have described the renal impairment due to the TFV in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in Sub-Saharan Africa. The objective was to evaluate factors associated with renal impairment observed in patients on TFV for CHB. Method: It was a hospital based cross sectional prospective study carried out from June 2023 to July 2023 in Yaoundé (Cameroon) and included any patient treated with TFV for CHB during at least a period of 6 months. For each participant, we collected in the medical report socio-demographic data, clinical data, baseline creatinine, treatment information (type of TFV which was Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) or Alafenamide (TAF), duration). Then, we collected blood samples to measure serum creatinine and phosphate levels and urine dipstick analysis. Factors associated with renal impairment were assessed with the Odds Ratio. A p value of Results: A total of 60 participants were included. The median age was 44 years [36-55] and median duration of TFV therapy was 17.5 months [11.7-25.7]. The prevalence of reduced eGFR (Conclusion: Kidney function was impaired in some patients receiving TFV for CHB. It should be monitored, particularly after 36 months and for those receiving TDF prodrug.

Fifteen acute retrobulbar optic neuritis associated with COVID-19:A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND A subtype of the Omicron variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)is suggested to be responsible for the outbreak in Northern China since the quarantine was lifted in December 2022.The coronavirus disease 2019 virus is primarily responsible for the development of respiratory illnesses,however,it can present a plethora of symptoms affecting a myriad of body organs.This virus has been theorized to be linked to demyelinating lesions of the peripheral and central nervous system including transverse myelitis and acute retrobulbar optic neuritis(ARON).For example,magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)of the orbit and brain showed enlargement of the retrobulbar intraorbital segments of the optic nerve with high T2 signal,and no abnormalities were seen in the brain tissue.In this case series,we analyzed the connection between SARSCoV-2 infection and the onset of ARON.CASE SUMMARY Fifteen patients,and a teenage boy who did not have any pre-existing ocular or demyelinating diseases suddenly experienced a loss of vision after SARS-CoV-2 infection.The patients expressed a central scotoma and a fever as the primary concern.The results of the fundus photography were found to be normal.However,the automated perimetry and MRI scans showed evidence of some typical signs.Out of the 15 patients diagnosed with ARON after SARS-CoV-2 infection,only one individual tested positive for the aquaporin-4 antibody.CONCLUSION Direct viral invasion of the central nervous system and an immune-related process are the two primary causes of SARS-CoV-2-related ARON.

Epidemiological, Clinical Aspects and Factors Associated with Typical Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in the General Population of Parakou, Republic of Benin

Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a benign and chronic disease that can impair the quality of life. Objective: To study the epidemiological, clinical aspects and factors associated with typical GERD in the general population of Parakou in the Republic of Benin. Methods: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study with prospective data collection which took place from May 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019. The study population consisted of any subject aged at least 15 years and living in Parakou. Subjects aged at least 15 years, present on the day of the survey and having given their free and informed verbal consent were included. The Short form of QRS®(Reflux-Qual Short form) questionnaire and the “Hospital Anxiety and Depression” score were used to assess the quality of life and anxiety/depression, respectively. The sampling was probabilistic through a 2-stage cluster sampling. The variable of interest was the presence of GERD. Results: Out of 390 subjects surveyed, 28 had symptoms of typical GERD, representing a prevalence of 7.18%. The average age of these subjects was 27.11 ± 7.88 years. Fifteen subjects (53.57%) were male, giving a sex ratio of 1.15. Fourteen (50%) had a secondary level of education, 12 (42.86%) were pupils/students, 18 (64.29%) were single. The monthly income of 22 subjects (78.57%) was lower than the guaranteed interprofessional minimum wage (40,000 FCFA). The average duration of progression of symptoms was 15.89 ± 4.97 months. Symptoms occurred less than twice a week in 22 subjects (78.57%). The clinical manifestations were both diurnal and nocturnal in 12 subjects (42.86%). None of the 28 subjects with GERD had clinical warning signs. Asthma, diabetes, consumption of high fat or spice foods, carbonated drinks, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alcoholic beverages and tobacco were statistically associated with the occurrence of GERD. Each of the 28 subjects had at least one associated factor. A significant impair in quality of life was observed in 27 patients (96.43%). Conclusion: Typical GERD is relatively common in the general population of Parakou in the Republic of Benin. It often affects young males. Among the risk factors identified, the most common are carbonated drinks, spicy meals and diabetes. GERD significantly impairs quality of life. Raising awareness about the disease and its associated factors is necessary among the general population.

Factors associated with the incidence of patient falls in hospitals:A scoping review

When a patient falls within a hospital setting,there is a significant increase in the risk of severe injury or health complications.Recognizing factors associated with such falls is crucial to mitigate their impact on patient safety.This review seeks to analyze the factors contributing to patient falls in hospitals.The main goal is to enhance our understanding of the reasons behind these falls,enabling hospitals to devise more effective prevention strategies.This study reviewed literature published from 2013 to 2022,using the Arksey and O’Malley methodology for a scoping review.The research literature was searched from seven databases,namely,PubMed,ScienceDirect,Wiley Library,Garuda,Global Index Medicus,Emerald Insight,and Google Scholar.The inclusion criteria comprised both qualitative and quantitative primary and secondary data studies centered on hospitalized patients.Out of the 893 studies analyzed,23 met the criteria and were included in this review.Although there is not an abundance of relevant literature,this review identified several factors associated with falls in hospitals.These encompass environmental,patient,staff,and medical factors.This study offers valuable insights for hospitals and medical personnel aiming to enhance fall prevention practices.Effective prevention efforts should prioritize early identification of patient risk factors,enhancement of the care environment,thorough training for care staff,and vigilant supervision of high-risk patients.By comprehending the factors that contribute to patient falls,hospitals can bolster patient safety and mitigate the adverse effects of falls within the health-care setting.

Study of Factors Associated with Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding Rabies in the Commune of Niakhéne in Senegal, in 2022

Introduction: Rabies is a serious disease, as it is always fatal, but it can be prevented by sero-vaccination. It is a neglected tropical disease endemic in Asia and Africa. The aim of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding rabies and to determine the factors associated with them among people aged 18 and over in the commune of Niakhène. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical survey of subjects aged 18 and over living in the commune of Niakhène. A sample of 300 individuals was drawn from a two-stage cluster survey stratified by age and sex. Bivariate analysis was performed using association tests. Results: The mean age of respondents was 35.3 ± 16.9 years. It was noted that 67% (201) of respondents had a good knowledge of rabies. The results showed that 7.3% (22) of respondents owned a dog. Of the 278 people who did not own a dog, 78.4% (218) said they would have vaccinated their dog if they had had one. It should be noted that 83.7% (251) of respondents said they would go to a health facility if an animal bit them. None of the dog owners had vaccinated their dogs against rabies. Of the 41 people exposed to rabies, 39% went to a health facility. The age and education of the respondents had statistically significant associations with knowledge of rabies. Respondents’ age and education were statistically significantly related to whether they had vaccinated a domestic dog. The age, education and economic well-being quintile of respondents’ households had statistically significant associations with the use of a health facility in the event of being bitten or scratched by an animal vector. The education of respondents who had been bitten by an animal vector was statistically significantly associated with the use of a health facility. Conclusion: It would be imperative for human and animal health authorities to collaborate in a “One Health” approach in order to increase knowledge and promote the adoption of good practices in rabies prevention.

Women Breast Cancer: Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices and Factors Associated with Early Screening in the Municipality of Abomey-Calavi in Benin in 2018

Background: Breast cancer is the dominant cancer in women in both developed and developing countries. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practices and factors associated with early breast cancer screening among women in the Municipality of Abomey-Calavi in Benin. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, analytical study with prospective data collection from October 1 to 8, 2018, involving 1740 women in the Municipality of Abomey-Calavi, aged 18 years or older and selected by WHO four-stage random cluster sampling. Consenting women who were mentally competent, 18 years of age or older at the time of the survey, and residing continuously in the Municipality of Abomey-Calavi for the last six months prior to the survey were included. On the other hand, women who belonged to a breast cancer prevention service, women in whom secondary screening was noted, or non-consenting women were not included. The initial minimum size was estimated by the Schwartz formula with a cluster effect of k = 2. Information was collected by questionnaire survey, entered with Epidata 3.1. Fr and analyzed with R Studio 3.5.1. software. Results: The mean age of the women surveyed was 32.0 ± 11.5 years with a range of 18 and 71 years. Regarding knowledge, the clinical manifestation known by the majority of women was the presence of a nodule (68.50%). In the series, 1308 (75.17%) declared having heard about breast cancer once before, either on the radio, television or from friends and 726 (55.50%) had heard about breast cancer screening. Five hundred and twelve (70.52%) of the 726 who had heard of breast cancer said they knew that breast cancer could be screened earlier. Breast self-examination was the most cited screening method (67.58%). The disease is of natural origin according to 37.84% of them. Regarding attitudes and practices, the prevalence of early breast cancer screening was 12.93%, of which 11.67% declared that they had checked themselves to know whether they were carriers of the disease or not. The main means of the early screening used was breast self-examination (85.78%). Factors associated with early breast cancer screening found in multivariate analysis were age (≤50 years), education level (increasingly higher), marital status (married/coupled), place of residence (downtown), and socioeconomic level (average/high). Conclusion: The frequency of early breast cancer screening among women is still low in the municipality of Abomey-Calavi, although they have a good knowledge of the disease. This raises the need to strengthen awareness of early breast cancer screening.

Associated Factors with Early Sexual Intercourse among In-School Adolescents in Brazzaville

Background: Early sexual intercourse (ESI) is a global public health problem. In Congo, associated factors with ESI have been under-studied. Objective: To analyse factors associated with early sexual intercourse among in-school adolescents in Brazzaville. Method: A cross-sectional analytic study with three-stage random sampling was carried out from March 2 to June 2, 2022 in Brazzaville secondary and high schools. Adolescents in the selected schools were interviewed about their sexual and social behaviour, and their family and school environment. Multivariate analysis using logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with ESI. The significance level of the p-value was set at 5% and the confidence interval at 95%. Results: Of a total of 1100 adolescents surveyed, 800 (72.7%) had ESI, 98% of them were female. The main reason for early initiation of sexual intercourse was curiosity (81.8%). Non-use of condoms and multiple sexual partnerships were noted respectively in 98.7% and 68.7% of adolescents who had experienced ESI. Female gender (p Conclusion: The prevalence of ESI is high, and the factors identified in this study may help to reduce it.

Tectonic Style Associated with the Doleritic Dykes of the Téra-Ayorou Pluton (Liptako, Western Niger)

The doleritic dykes present in the Téra-Ayorou pluton crosscut the basement of the Nigerien Liptako and are part of the system of intrusive mafic dykes in the Paleoproterozoic domain of the Léo-Man ridge. In the previous work, emphasis was placed on the petrology, geochemistry and geochronology of the Liptako doleritic dykes. This study aims to analyze the tectonic style of intrusive doleritic dykes in the Téra-Ayorou pluton. The characterization of the deformation which affected the doleritic dykes of the Téra-Ayorou pluton is important for the evaluation of their economic potential. To this end, measurements of tectonic structure planes were taken in the field, and samples were taken from the chilled margin and cores of dolerite dykes, before being processed in the laboratory. Analysis of the tectonic structures collected revealed a brittle tectonic pattern, characterizing a phase of deformation subdivided into two episodes D1 and D2. Episode D1, with its subvertically dipping normal faults and simple N70˚ - N110˚ fractures, is compatible with N-S extension. On the other hand, episode D2, which created shear corridors by reactivation of pre-existing fractures and oriented N150˚ - N170˚, is associated with a WSW-ENE extension. These results open up prospects for the exploration of gold, uranium mineralization and diamonds in the north-west of Niger.

Systematic Analysis of Factors Associated with Late Breast Cancer Screening in Women in Sub-Saharan Africa from 2014 to 2020

Research background: Breast cancer remains a major public health problem, with a high number of new cases and deaths each year. However, despite advances in research to improve this disease, there is a high rate of late detection, leading to diagnosis at an advanced stage and a reduced chance of survival. Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the factors associated with late detection of breast cancer in women in Sub-Saharan Africa from 2014 to 2020.Setting: This systematic review focuses on sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: We searched for articles in four databases (PubMed, Embase, Global-Health and CINAHL) between 2014 and 2020 and performed a narrative synthesis to organize and group the different factors associated with late breast cancer detection. Result: After reviewing 583 publications, 6 studies were selected, highlighting factors such as lack of awareness, knowledge gaps, difficulties in accessing health services and financial constraints associated with late breast cancer screening. The participants, who ranged in number from 20 to 1776, were mainly aged between 18 and 25, with a mean age of 25 years and 6 months. Conclusion: The analysis enabled us to identify various factors associated with late breast cancer screening. Collaboration between health professionals, community organizations and policy-makers is essential to foster an environment conducive to the prevention and early detection of breast cancer.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Chronic Low Back Pain in the Mining Sector in Burkina Faso

Introduction: Low back pain is nowadays a real public health problem in companies. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with chronic low back pain among workers of a mining company in Burkina Faso. Material and Methods: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study with a retrospective collection that took place from August 1, 2021 to March 16, 2022 in a gold mine in Burkina Faso. It focused on mine workers who participated in the 2019 annual medical visit. Results: Out of a total workforce of 880 workers who took part in the annual medical visit in 2019, 165 had chronic common low back pain, i.e. a prevalence of 18.75%. The average age of low back pain workers was 37.21 ± 7.5 years. Among the workers suffering from low back pain, 62 (37.58%) held the position of machine operator. Clinically, mechanical pain was found in 113 low back pain workers (76%) and twenty-nine (17.58%) had radicular pain. Standard radiography of the lumbar spine was abnormal in 129 workers (78.18%. In the univariate analysis, the factors associated with the pathology were sex, level of study, work station and seniority in the position. After a logistic regression, the factors associated with its occurrence were whole-body vibration (Fisher’s test = 12.7541;P = 0.000), male sex (Fisher’s test = 8.363;P = 0.004), and seniority for 4 to 5 years (Chi2 = 4.0234;p = 0.046). Conclusion: The study reveals the existence of chronic low back pain cases among the workers of the mining company. There is a predominance of the pathology in men, workers exposed to vibrations and those with a seniority of 4 to 5 years. It is necessary to establish a policy of prevention of low back pain for the benefit of workers, in particular those exposed to vibrations.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Low Back Pain among Healthcare Workers in Two Hospitals in Yaoundé-Cameroon: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a very common health problem amongst the general population and a major cause of disability that affects work performance and well-being. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are especially at risk of developing LBP because of physical and emotional factors. Little is known about the burden of LBP in Cameroon. Objective: To determine the prevalence of low back pain and identify its associated factors among healthcare workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire was conducted among healthcare workers in the Yaound Central Hospital and the Yaound University Teaching Hospital. The questionnaire collected data regarding recent, past year and lifetime occurrences of LBP, socio-demographics and work conditions. Data were analysed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Results: A total number of 268 HCWs participated in the study, including 197 (73.5%) females and 71 (26.5%) males. The mean age of the study participants was 40.60 8.38 years (extremes of 20 and 65 years). The lifetime, annual, and point prevalences of LBP among the participants were 67.5% (CI: 61.6 - 73.1), 61.5% (CI: 55.6 - 67.1) and 35.7% (CI: 29.7 - 41.5) respectively. Multivariate analysis confirmed a moderate stress level, a sedentary lifestyle, working in the medicine and specialities department, lifting heavy objects and bending to work as associated factors to LBP. Most sufferers had a minimal functional disability (65.7%) while 34.3% had a moderate to severe disability. Conclusions: Healthcare providers have a considerably high prevalence of low back pain. Factors associated with LBP found in this study were similar to those widely recognized in the literature. A substantial proportion of healthcare providers are suffering from functional disability associated with low back pain, affecting their social and work lives. There is a need for multilevel interventions to prevent and control low back pain in this highly vulnerable occupational group.

Prevalence and Tasks Associated with Respiratory Symptoms among Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Handlers in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso in 2019

Introduction: The uncontrolled management of waste electrical and electronic equipment (W3E) causes respiratory problems in the handlers of this waste. The objective was to study the stains associated with respiratory symptoms in W3E handlers. Methods: The study was cross-sectional with an analytical focus on W3E handlers in the informal sector in Ouagadougou. A peer-validated questionnaire collected data on a sample of 161 manipulators. Results: the most common W3E processing tasks were the purchase or sale of W3E (67.70%), its repair (39.75%) and its collection (31.06%). The prevalence of cough was 21.74%, that of wheezing 14.91%, phlegm 12.50% and dyspnea at rest 10.56%. In bivariate analysis, there were significant associations at the 5% level between W3E repair and phlegm (p-value = 0.044), between W3E burning and wheezing (p-value = 0.011) and between W3E and cough (p-value = 0.01). The final logistic regression models suggested that the burning of W3E and the melting of lead batteries represented risk factors for the occurrence of cough with respective prevalence ratios of 4.57 and 4.63. Conclusion: raising awareness on the wearing of personal protective equipment, in particular masks adapted by W3E handlers, favoring those who are dedicated to the burning of electronic waste and the melting of lead could make it possible to reduce the risk of occurrence of respiratory symptoms.

Socio-Demographic and Economic Factors Associated with Uptake of COVID-19 Vaccine among Pregnant Women at Pumwani Maternity Hospital in Nairobi County, Kenya

Introduction: Pregnant women are a highly vulnerable population for COVID-19 with increased risk of hospitalization, intensive-care unit admission, invasive ventilation support, and mortality. Objective: This study determined the socio-demographic and economic factors associated with the uptake of COVID-19 vaccine among pregnant women utilizing antenatal care services in Pumwani Maternity Hospital, Nairobi County-Kenya. Methods: The study was carried out from 15 June to 23 July 2023. Systematic sampling was used to select 302 women from whom data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS software in which bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were done at a significance level of p Results: A total of 302 pregnant women participated in the study. Of these, 105 (34.8%) were aged between twenty-six (26) and thirty (30) years. The mean age of the women was 28.60 ± (SD = 5.297). The uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine was 41.1%. The common side effects reported to be associated with the vaccines were fever, headache, joint pain, vomiting and skin rash. Uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine was significantly associated with being married (AOR = 3.65, 95% CI: 0.62 - 1.80, p = 0.001), having a secondary level of education (AOR = 3.78, 95% CI: 0.99 - 2.88, p = 0.001) and being employed (COR = 2.66, 95% CI: 1.31 - 3.06, p = 0.001). Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccination uptake remains low among pregnant women in seeking ANC in Nairobi. The individual factors associated with the uptake of COVID-19 vaccine among pregnant Women at Pumwani maternity hospital in Nairobi County were being married, having secondary level of education and being employed. Integration of the COVID-19 vaccine with other routine vaccinations as per the national immunization program in Kenya and the enhancement of education regarding the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy and breastfeeding and economic empowerment of women are recommended.

Factors Associated with Acute Respiratory Infections in Children Aged 0 - 5 Years in the Yénawa District of Cotonou (Benin) in 2023

Introduction: Acute respiratory infections remain one of the main causes of mortality in children aged 0 to 5. This work aimed to study the associated factors with the occurrence of acute respiratory infections in children 0 to 5 years old in Yénawa, Cotonou in 2023. Subjects and Method: It was an analytical cross-sectional study of children aged 0 - 5 years and their mothers in Yénawa, selected by four-degree random sampling. The sampling size, calculated using the Schwartz formula, was 126 children and 126 mothers. The dependent variable was the occurrence of acute respiratory infections. The independent variables were classified into four groups: socio-demographic and economic characteristics, behavioral factors, child-related factors, and environmental factors. Data collected by observation and questionnaire survey were analyzed using STATA version 15 software. Associated factors were investigated by bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression, at the 5% significance level. Results: A total of 126 children aged 0 - 5 years and 126 mothers were surveyed, aged 23.5 (11 - 36) months and 30 (18 - 48) years respectively. The prevalence of acute respiratory infections was 74.60% (CI95% = 66.89 to 82.30). The associated factors were the mother’s age between 18 and 28 (OR = 10.77;CI95% = 1.89 to 61.27;p = 0.007), the use of charcoal/wood for cooking (OR = 7.36;IC = 1.99 to 27.10;p = 0.003)), children's poor personal hygiene (OR = 8.87;IC = 2.92 to 26.97;p 0.001)), and cohabitation with domestic animals (OR = 7.27;IC = 1.67 to 31.71;p = 0.015). Conclusion: Communicating with mothers about the factors identified will help reduce the prevalence of acute respiratory infections in children aged 0 to 5.

Factors Associated with Closely Spaced Pregnancies at the Departmental Hospital Centre of Zou-Collines (Benin) in 2022

Introduction: Birth spacing to prevent closely-spaced pregnancies, which are a source of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, is not always respected by our women, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). The objective was to study the factors associated with closely-spaced pregnancies among women followed at the Departmental Hospital Center du Zou et du Colline (DHC/Z-C) in 2022. Study Method: This was a descriptive, analytical cross-sectional study with prospective data collection from 20 May to 30 June 2022. Results: At the end of the study, 83 of the 117 women surveyed had close pregnancies, a frequency of 70.94%. They had an average age of 27.0 ± 6.3 years and were of Fon ethnicity and related in 91.57% of cases. The majority were married (96.60%). The factors significantly associated with these closely spaced pregnancies were age between 25 and 30 years, household occupation, age at first birth, age at marriage, women’s perception of contraceptive method (CM), women’s knowledge of the existence of a center providing family planning services and non-use of MC. Conclusion: Close pregnancies are still very common in the commune of Abomey. It is therefore important to increase the use of contraceptive methods in this part of the country.

Factors Associated with Mortality in Children Aged 1 Month to 15 Years Hospitalized in the Pediatric Ward of the Kalaban-Coro Reference Health Center: Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Infant and child mortality is a worldwide concern, but developing countries such as Mali are more affected. The aim of this study was to investigate morbidity and factors associated with mortality in children aged 1 month to 15 years. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study which took place from January 1 to December 31, 2020 covering children aged 1 month to 15 years hospitalized at the Kalaban-Coro CSRéf. Data were entered into Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. Results: Five hundred children aged 1 months to 15 years were included. The age range 1 to 5 years (53.6%) and male sex (58.2%) were the most represented. Malaria (72.2%), acute respiratory infections (6.2%) and diarrhea/dehydration (3%) were the main morbidities. Mortality was estimated at 10.6%, and the two main causes of death were malaria (56.6%) and acute respiratory infections (7.54%). Univariate analysis revealed a statistically significant association between the dependent variable (death) and age (p Conclusion: This study confirms the high rate of infant and child morbidity and mortality in our health facilities. Strengthening human resources and intensifying behavior-change communication can help reverse the trend.

Factors Associated with Voluntary Cosmetic Depigmentation in Schools in the Collines Department (Benin)

Skin depigmentation is a worrying practice that is gaining popularity, particularly among young girls. However, this practice poses health risks. It also reflects a negative view of black skin color. This was a cross-sectional study carried out between April and May 2023 which involved 1039 female students from schools and universities in the Collines department selected by stratified sampling. Data was collected during a face-to-face interview using a questionnaire providing information on the demographic, socio-cultural, and economic characteristics of the girls. The depigmentation products used were identified as well as the complications caused by the use of these products. Statistical analysis made it possible to calculate the frequencies and logistic regression made it possible to identify the factors associated with depigmentation. The prevalence of depigmentation among the girls surveyed was 78.2%. The main products used were soaps based on mercurial derivative and hydroquinone (21.6%) and lotions based on hydroquinone and corticosteroids (75.7%). The factors associated with the practice of depigmentation were the ethnicity of the respondents (OR = 2.52;95% CI = [0.47 - 13.33], p = 0.001);the average monthly income of the parents (OR = 3.26;95% CI = [1.71 - 6.09], p = 0.003);the opinion of the respondents on depigmentation (OR = 2.48;95% CI = [0.84 - 7.3], p < 0.001) and the value given to light skin versus black skin (OR = 3.41;95% CI = [2.32 - 5.01], p < 0.001). In conclusion, the prevalence of depigmentation among the girls surveyed is high. Consequently, reinforced awareness measures and stricter control of bleaching products are imperative to address this high prevalence of the phenomenon.

Factors Associated with High Blood Pressure and Diabetes Cormobidity in Littoral Department of Benin, in 2023

Introduction: The number of people suffering from diabetes and hypertension (HBP) is increasing worldwide and particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, despite the fact that they are preventable. The aim of our study is to determine the factors associated with hypertension and diabetes comorbidity in the Department of Littoral in 2023. Study Setting and Methods: Our study took place in the Department of Littoral in Benin. It was a cross-sectional general population study conducted over a three-month period from April 10 to July 10, 2023. It included subjects aged 18 and over with or without a history of hypertension and/or diabetes. The sampling method was probabilistic and the technique used was a WHO three-stage cluster survey. The dependent variable is comorbidity of hypertension and diabetes. A logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with hypertension-diabetes comorbidity. Results: The study population was predominantly female (59.9%). The mean age was 44 ± 17. A total of 48 (8.8%) of the subjects in the study suffered from both diabetes and hypertension. Factors associated with comorbidity of hypertension and diabetes were age ≥ 50 years (OR: 5.48;95% CI: 2.69 - 12.20;p = 0.001);male sex (OR: 2.98;95% CI: 1.39 - 6.46;p = 0.005);too much salt or salty sauce consumed (OR: 6.06;95% CI: 1.56 - 22.20;p = 0.034);abdominal obesity (OR: 6.12;95% CI: 2.79 - 14.3;p = 0.001). Conclusion: Hypertension and diabetes are emerging as major public health problems in Benin. The main associated factors were age, gender, the amount of salt or salty sauce consumed and abdominal obesity. A response is urgently needed to act on the factors identified in order to avoid possible complications and an increase in prevalence.

Factors Associated with Overweight among Workers of the Ministry of Labor and Public Service in Benin in 2023

Introduction: The problem of excess weight is pandemic and affects the majority of nations, regardless of their level of development. However, the prevalence of overweight among workers in Benin is very poorly documented. To fill this gap, the present study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with overweight among workers of the Ministry of Labor and Public Service (MTFP) in 2023 in Benin. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study with analytical purposes carried out from August 16 to December 17, 2023, among MINISTRY OF LABOR AND PUBLIC SERVICE staff. The variables studied were overweight, sociodemographic, occupational and dietary characteristics, lifestyle, anthropometric factors and family history of obesity. An exhaustive recruitment of workers meeting our inclusion criteria and a questionnaire survey was carried out. Data were analyzed using R 4.0.4 software. A bivariate analysis followed by a multivariable analysis made it possible to identify the factors associated with overweight at the p Results: In total, 379 workers were included in our study. The average age of the surveyed workers was 44.86 years ± 7.67 years, with 202 (53.30%) workers at least 45 years old. Men predominated with a number of 228 (60.16%). The prevalence of overweight was 63.32% (95% CI: [58.23 - 68.15]) and the associated factors after multivariate analysis were: female sex (ORa = 4.00;95% CI [2.11 - 7.76];p Conclusion: The prevalence of overweight is high among ministry of labor and public service workers. Education and awareness in the professional environment on the prevention and management of risk factors are essential for a long-term impact on a notable regression of this public health phenomenon.