-
The Use of 3S Technology to Assess Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease in Offinso Cocoa District Area, Ghana
Fred Oduro Sarpong,
Jonathan Arthur Quaye-Ballard,
Ernest Biney
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 4, December 2021
Pages:
169-180
Received:
3 September 2021
Accepted:
26 September 2021
Published:
12 October 2021
Abstract: The cocoa industry is ruined by Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD) caused by a virus transmitted by mealybugs. Initiatives by Ghana Cocoa Board to control the disease have not been all that successful over the years. The study aimed at exploring Geographic Information System (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), and Global Position System (GPS) techniques to assess the prevalence of CSSVD in terms of their geographic locations by comparing the 2nd and 3rd Country Wide Surveys (CWS) undertaken by Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) in the Offinso cocoa district of Ghana. Handheld GPS, GIS shapefiles, and Landsat 7 and 8 satellite images were used. Geo-spatial overlay operations of shapefiles and performances on NDVI computations yielded relationships between the 2nd and 3rd CWS on CSSVD farms over ten years period from 2009 to 2019. It was revealed that only 12.99 hectares of the disease are found in the 2nd CWS was persistent under the 3rd CWS and this was due to successful treatment of infected area during the 2nd CWS. Also, the health of cocoa under the 3rd CWS had improved to 262.89 hectares from the previously infected 275.89 hectares. Thus, treatment of the CSSVD was effective and the vegetative health index of the farms emanated from the treatment was also encouraging. The results show the impact on the control of CSSVD for the sustainable production of cocoa. In addition, the research method serves as a guideline for other related studies in an attempt to investigate, quantify and project CSSVD.
Abstract: The cocoa industry is ruined by Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD) caused by a virus transmitted by mealybugs. Initiatives by Ghana Cocoa Board to control the disease have not been all that successful over the years. The study aimed at exploring Geographic Information System (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), and Global Position System (GPS) techni...
Show More
-
The Effect of Public Health Intervention on the Knowledge of the Hazards of Smoking in Students
Sulaemana Engkeng,
Maureen Irinne Punuh,
Afnal Asrifuddin
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 4, December 2021
Pages:
181-184
Received:
8 September 2021
Accepted:
29 September 2021
Published:
12 October 2021
Abstract: The national percentage of smoking every day for population>10 years is 23.7%. Most of the students in Kotamobagu were smokers, according to the initial survey were carried out by looking directly at the surroundings of Kotamobagu 1 Public Senior High School. Several students smoked around the school. Based on this, it is necessary to research public health interventions as an effort to prevent the dangers of smoking in students through counselling in increasing knowledge about the dangers of smoking. The research objective was the effect of public health interventions on knowledge about the dangers of smoking in students at Kotamobagu 1 Public Senior High School. The output target in this study is that after this research, it is hoped that the effect of public health interventions on knowledge about the dangers of smoking will be known. The research methodology used was experimental research with a quasi-experimental approach with one group pre-test and post-test. The population in this study were all students in class XI totalling 391. The total sample was 80 students. The statistical test results obtained p-value=0.000, compared with the coefficient alpha (α)=0.05 (0.000)<0.05, thus Ho is rejected and Ha is accepted which can be concluded that the average knowledge before and after the extension is different. It can be stated that counselling affects students' knowledge about the dangers of smoking.
Abstract: The national percentage of smoking every day for population>10 years is 23.7%. Most of the students in Kotamobagu were smokers, according to the initial survey were carried out by looking directly at the surroundings of Kotamobagu 1 Public Senior High School. Several students smoked around the school. Based on this, it is necessary to research publ...
Show More
-
Spatial Distribution and Associated Risk Factors of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infection in a Semi-urban Community in Southwest Nigeria
Oluwatoba Olufunke Abiodun,
Taiwo Olalekan John,
Nwuba Roseangela Ifeyinwa
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 4, December 2021
Pages:
185-191
Received:
21 September 2021
Accepted:
14 October 2021
Published:
28 October 2021
Abstract: Parasite distribution exhibit heterogeneity within households and communities. The aim of this study is to identify the spatial distribution, clustering and associated risk factors of Soil-transmitted Helminths infection in a semi-urban area in Southwest Nigeria. Geographical information System (GIS) was used to map the town into three density areas; low, medium and high density areas. Two hundred and thirty six soil samples were obtained from the surroundings of 137 households and stool samples were collected from the inhabitant of the households. Moran index was used to analyze the spatial distribution of STH within the community. A total of 137 households were sampled for human STH and environmental soil samples from the household were analyzed. The prevalence of human STH infection was 41.7% while that of soil parasite was 27.7% within the selected household. Ascaris lumbricoides was the predominant STH infection in the community sampled with 24.1% prevalence followed by Hookworm. Spatial analysis showed that A. lumbricoides infection was significantly clustered only in the GIS mapped medium density area of Igbo-Ora (z-score 2.302, p=0.021), while hookworm infection was randomly distributed in all the GIS mapped areas of Igbo-Ora. There was a statistically significant association between human STH infection and presence of parasite in the household soil (x2 5.74, p-value 0.017). None of the risk factors evaluated was found to have significant association for the clustering pattern of infection found in the medium density area of the community. Meanwhile, factors such as; the physical presence of a popularly patronized local market in the area, lack of any visible public toilet and the use of bushes around the area by the people for defecation contribute to the reasons for the clustering of the Ascaris infection. Also, the ability of Ascaris to withstand environmental conditions than other STH parasite may contribute to the pattern observed. The differences in the pattern of distribution and associated risk factors revealed that environmental conditions and exposure factors are major determinant of STH infection.
Abstract: Parasite distribution exhibit heterogeneity within households and communities. The aim of this study is to identify the spatial distribution, clustering and associated risk factors of Soil-transmitted Helminths infection in a semi-urban area in Southwest Nigeria. Geographical information System (GIS) was used to map the town into three density area...
Show More
-
Study of the Association Between Socio Demographic Characteristics and Dietary Diversity Among Adults Living with HIV Attending Kerugoya Referral Hospital
Githongo Faith Wangari,
Otieno Samwel Boaz
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 4, December 2021
Pages:
192-197
Received:
28 September 2021
Accepted:
21 October 2021
Published:
29 October 2021
Abstract: PLWHIV needs to eat a balanced diet and a diverse diet with foods in sufficient quantities to meet their energy, protein and micronutrient needs. The purpose of this study was to determine the dietary diversity among adults living with HIV in the Kerugoya Comprehensive clinic, Kirinyaga County, Kenya. The study adopted analytical cross-sectional design. Data was collected from a sample of 169 persons and stratified random sampling technique was used to determine the proportion of each gender for the study from Kerugoya Comprehensive clinic ART booking register. Quantitative and qualitative methods which include structured questionnaire, focused group discussions and In-depth Interviews were used in collection of data. Pre testing of the questionnaires was done to 10% of sample in a nearby public facility Kagumo Health Centre Comprehensive Care Clinic. Confidentiality was observed by coding the questionnaires and names were not written. Informed consent was sought from the respondents before the data collection. Privacy was also observed as interviews were conducted in closed rooms. Completed questionnaires were kept in the cabinet under lock and key for safety and security reasons. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (Chi square) were used for data analysis. All quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 20 while qualitative data were analysed thematically using computer software NVIVO. The study established that demographic factors are associated with dietary diversity among HIV positive adults attending Kerugoya Comprehensive clinic. Socio-demographic factors associated with dietary diversity were gender, marital status and levels of education (p<0.05). From the findings, interventions targeting individuals with demographic factors associated with low dietary diversity scores can be organized. This can be done by the county governments, NGOs and faith-based organizations. For gender, interventions could target the male PLWHIV, unmarried individuals within this category should also be targeted. Such interventions should aim at ensuring positive dietary diversity behaviours among PLWHIV.
Abstract: PLWHIV needs to eat a balanced diet and a diverse diet with foods in sufficient quantities to meet their energy, protein and micronutrient needs. The purpose of this study was to determine the dietary diversity among adults living with HIV in the Kerugoya Comprehensive clinic, Kirinyaga County, Kenya. The study adopted analytical cross-sectional de...
Show More
-
Contextualizing the Impacts of COVID-19 in Bangladesh: An Evidence from Social and Environmental Perspective
Mahmuda Akter,
Md. Mizanur Rahman Sarker,
Nazneen Islam Nishat
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 4, December 2021
Pages:
198-205
Received:
11 October 2021
Accepted:
3 November 2021
Published:
27 November 2021
Abstract: COVID-19 has spotted profound concerns over time in Bangladesh as the country is known as a developing country though it has lower HDI. This densely populated country is facing various fundamental problems caused by the spreading of Coronavirus. One of the most difficult challenges is to ensure social distancing, while the environmental impacts of COVID-19 wastages need foresight to be taken care of. Another environmental impact of COVID-19 is rather positively accepted that the pollution rate dropped greatly for a while due to lockdown, but it was knowingly temporary as people tend to not follow the pandemic situation. Social distancing and health protective instructions are moderately followed by different classes of people from different socio-economic levels. Changes in social norms and family rituals to avoid the infection are noticeable. The importance of digitalization has increased during this pandemic; people are being dependent on various social media and digital communication apps for education, work and social belongingness. Telecommunication and digital media sectors are contributing to build awareness about Coronavirus among people. Due to the economic impact, Bangladesh is undergoing a social transition. Skyrocketing unemployment, limited sources of daily supplies, problems in digital schooling of children, lack of social security, emergency aids for the vulnerable possess great concerns. Initially the Government distributed 0.2 million PPE to the doctors and medical staff, but the management of these PPE wastages are neglected which possesses great health and environmental threats. Air pollution in major cities was deducted to a great level which did not happen for many decades whereas demand for proper water supply has increased. Many organizations are working alongside the Bangladesh Government for ensuring social distancing as well as distributing relief aids to the vulnerable group. Local authorities and voluntary workers are trying to deliver essential supplies in the lockdown areas. People now are conscious about cleanliness and management of wastages which boosted environmental benefits.
Abstract: COVID-19 has spotted profound concerns over time in Bangladesh as the country is known as a developing country though it has lower HDI. This densely populated country is facing various fundamental problems caused by the spreading of Coronavirus. One of the most difficult challenges is to ensure social distancing, while the environmental impacts of ...
Show More
-
Food Consumption, Dietary Diversity and Associated Factors in Pregnant Women Receiving Ante-Natal Care in East Gojjam Zone, Amhara, Ethiopia
Birhanie Muluken Walle,
Adeyemi Olu Adekunle,
Ayodele Olatunji Arowojolu,
Tesfaye Tolessa Dugul,
Akiloge Lake Mebiratie
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 4, December 2021
Pages:
206-213
Received:
1 November 2021
Accepted:
19 November 2021
Published:
29 November 2021
Abstract: Introduction: Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) and Food Consumption Score (FCS) are indices developed to indicate micronutrient deficiency and food inadequacy. This study assessed the association between socio-economic-demographic, environmental, anthropometric and risky behavioral factors with DDS and FCS. Although these indices are significantly applicable in low-income countries set up, limited studies have been conducted on the effect of these factors on DDS and FCS. Materials and Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 423 pregnant women of<17 weeks gestation from randomly selected health institutions in five Woredas that are located in the local administration of Amhara Regional State from June 2019 to October 2019. Weekly and daily nutritional reports were collected using food frequency questionnaires. In addition, the Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) of each participant was also recorded using a “MUAC tape”. Moreover, Wealth Index (WI) was developed and categorized using principal component analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were calculated between DDS and/or FCS and their associated factors. Results and Discussion: The prevalence of low DDS and FCS were 53.2 and 19.7%, respectively. Attainment of education up to junior school level (AOR of 0.260 (0.096, 0.709); P<0.009), low FCG (0.008 (0.001, 0.058); P<0.0001), alcohol (0.307 (0.145, 0.651); P<0.002) and frequent coffee consumption (0.393 (0.177, 0.874); P<0.022) were found to be significant risks for low DDS. Whereas, sharing toilets with other households and low DDS were associated with low FCS with AOR of=0.396 (0.174, 0.901); P<0.027 and 0.008 (0.001, 0.06) P<0.0001, respectively. In addition, the poorest WI quintile reduced the probability of the DDS by 53.9% while an increased MUAC will put the participant in the adequate or high DDS group by 11%. Conclusion and Recommendation: Low level of education, low FCS, poorest WI, low MUAC, alcohol and frequent coffee consumption were found to contribute to the reduction in DDS. A low FCS was associated with the use of a shared toilet between households as well as low DDS. Therefore, aggressive promotion of women’s education, provision of health education about the use of diversified or fortified food and supplementation of micronutrients, ceasing alcohol and coffee consumption is recommended. Moreover, policies on fostering plant and animal food production and consumption would be of high priority. In addition, the fortification of food with essential amino acids and micronutrients, and supplementation of MMN should be encouraged until sufficient production and diversification of the consumed food are attained.
Abstract: Introduction: Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) and Food Consumption Score (FCS) are indices developed to indicate micronutrient deficiency and food inadequacy. This study assessed the association between socio-economic-demographic, environmental, anthropometric and risky behavioral factors with DDS and FCS. Although these indices are significantly app...
Show More
-
Factors Influencing Students’ Participation in Environmental Sanitation
Julia Adesua Agbonifoh,
Norris Igbinosa Erhabor
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 4, December 2021
Pages:
214-218
Received:
30 June 2021
Accepted:
15 November 2021
Published:
24 December 2021
Abstract: Background: Waste disposal, refuse disposal as well as inadequate water supply are problems in our environment especially in institutions. It may be caused by a lot of factors. These include neglect of the operation and maintenance of health facilities, lack of hygiene education for the students, non-existence or insufficient water supply, poor sanitation and inadequate hand washing facilities, dirty and unsafe water supply, toilets or latrines that are not adapted to the needs of the students as well as unhealthy and dirty classrooms/school compounds. These factors have led to the consequences on students’ health. Objective: The study aimed at investigating factors that affect students’ improvement of the sanitary condition of their halls of residence in University of Benin, Ugbowo campus. Method: To guide this study, two (2) research questions were raised. For the instrument used by the researcher in carrying out the study, it was a questionnaire and it was administered to 220 respondents. Result: The study discovered that most students believed that they can dispose waste anywhere aside the designated collection points, and that for the purpose of collection and transportation of wastes, it is imperative that students’ residents should make use of waste bins. Conclusion: It was concluded that some perceived factors affecting students’ improvement of the sanitary condition of their halls of residence include: non-chalant attitudes of student, also that most students feel it is humiliating for them to tidy their surroundings, most students usually do not have enough time due to academic workload coupled with the inadequate water facilities in the hostel, and further added that the lack of supervision by the hostel porter coupled with the bad habits of students in the hostel. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended by the researchers that the school management should provide refuse receptacles in large quantity and place them at intervals but very close within the hostels among others.
Abstract: Background: Waste disposal, refuse disposal as well as inadequate water supply are problems in our environment especially in institutions. It may be caused by a lot of factors. These include neglect of the operation and maintenance of health facilities, lack of hygiene education for the students, non-existence or insufficient water supply, poor san...
Show More
