Search

Introduction: There is a high incidence of unsafe abortion among women in Nigeria and the DRC. Low knowledge of recommended abortion methods [i.e., surgical and medication abortion (MA) pills] is a barrier for women accessing safe abortions. Women often rely on friends for information about abortion methods. Understanding characteristics of women with knowledge of recommended abortion methods, and MA specifically, and how it is influenced by close female friendships may help identify women most at risk of relying on unsafe abortion. Methods: We used survey data from Performance Monitoring for Action from 11,106 women of reproductive age in Nigeria (April–May 2018) and 3,697 women in Kinshasa and Kongo Central, DRC, (December 2021–April 2022) to produce representative estimates of knowledge of abortion methods at the national and province levels, respectively. We performed bivariate and multivariate logistic regression to determine which characteristics were independently associated with knowing a recommended abortion method, with knowing of MA pills specifically, and to assess our hypothesis that having at least one female confidante would increase one's odds of knowing about these methods. Results: A minority (26.9%) of women in Nigeria and the majority in Kinshasa (76.7%) and Kongo Central (58.1%) reported having knowledge of at least one recommended abortion method, while knowledge of MA pills was low in all sites. Having at least one close female confidante was associated with increased odds of knowing a recommend abortion method in Nigeria (aOR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.25–1.79) and in Kongo Central (aOR = 2.66, 95% CI 1.40–5.40), and with increased odds of knowing about MA specifically in Kinshasa (aOR = 1.44, 95% CI 1.08–1.93) and Kongo Central (aOR = 3.61, 95% CI 1.28–10.22), but not Nigeria. Discussion: In legally restrictive contexts where knowledge of recommended abortion methods (particularly medication abortion) is low, having close female friends is related to increased knowledge of recommended abortion methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Under-5 mortality rates (U5MR) have declined drastically globally. However, it remains high in Nigeria, with variations across the Country's six geo-political zones. Understanding the factors associated with under-5 mortality (U5M) among lesser-explored subpopulations will inform strategies to curtail U5M. We investigated the factors associated with U5M in the south-south geopolitical zone (SSGZ) of Nigeria and population attributable risk percent (PAR%). Method: We analyzed population-based data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) for 2013 and 2018. Logistic regression analysis was used in SPSS version 26.0 to calculate the Odds Ratios (OR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) for U5M associated with various factors, while the PAR% was computed using Levine's formula. Results: The adjusted logistic regression analysis model showed maternal overweight (OR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.12–1.72, p < 0.05), primary education (OR = 2.18, 95%CI 1.18–4.04 p < 0.05) and secondary education (2.05, 95%CI 1.13–3.72, p < 0.05) levels, male gender (OR=1.22, 95%CI 1.01–1.47, p < 0.05), birth interval of less than two years (OR = 2.93, 95%CI 2.10–4.10, p < 0.001), and small birth size (OR = 2.54, 95% CI 1.94–3.31, P < 0.001) significantly increased U5M risk, while having seven or more household members (OR = 0.73, 95%CI 0.59–0.89, p < 0.05) and 2 under-five children in the household (OR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.52–0.83, p < 0.001) were protective factors, with PAR% for the factor significantly associated with U5M ranging from 4.5% to 47.1%. Conclusion: Increased interventions on maternal weight, maternal education, low birth size, and child spacing could reduce U5M in the SSGZ of Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Provision of services for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities (DD) in Nigeria has been influenced by US and international research and awareness efforts. Forces that impact progress include Nigerian cultural beliefs and family involvement, societal attitudes, inadequate infrastructure and resources, and inconsistent policy and enforcement of disability laws. These forces can impact families both positively and negatively. A lack of standardised teacher training and accreditation programs limit access for students with disabilities to individualised education programs (IEPs) and classroom inclusion. Effective treatments for those with ASD/DD are well-documented, however these effective interventions often do not reach more rural, low-income, or less developed nations or rural, low socioeconomic US schools. The focus of this paper is to thoroughly analyse the evolution of special education and inclusion in Nigeria and the United States and to highlight how US progression influenced Nigeria and the importance of advocating for culturally relevant, low-cost, research-based interventions and outreach African nations such as Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has become an endemic disease of global public health importance. Mass COVID-19 vaccination has been an essential global control strategy amidst challenges of limited acceptance. Because of globalization, COVID-19/similar diseases vaccination acceptance and the determinants in any particular setting are important global public health issues. Using a novel and pragmatic framework, this study explored determinants of COVID-19 vaccination acceptance among community members during the pandemic in Ebonyi state, Nigeria, and made policy-relevant recommendations on how to increase vaccination acceptance in subsequent outbreaks/pandemics. Methods: This qualitative study was based on the novel and pragmatic Individual Experiences and Perceptions and Complacency, Confidence, Convenience, and Compulsion (Four 'Cis') Determinants of Vaccination Acceptance Conceptual Framework – Omale INDEPT FORCIS Framework. On April 26 and 27, 2022, 20 semi-structured face-to-face focus group discussions were conducted in local language and pidgin English with 100 purposively selected consenting/assenting community members aged 15 years and above who had resided in the community for at least one year. Data was analysed using deductive (with some inductive) thematic analytic approach. Results: The many, diverse, and significant determinants of COVID-19 vaccination acceptance found were factors that were individual-related (individual experiences and perceptions and knowledge about COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccine/vaccination, and the vaccination process/system, sociodemographic, individual's condition (e.g. pregnancy)); COVID-19-related (factuality, transmissibility, frequency, severity, fatality); COVID-19 vaccine/vaccination-related (safety/side-effects, effectiveness, speedy production); COVID-19 vaccination process/system-related (real availability/accessibility); family, group, and other individual-related (experiences and perceptions and actions); and broader local, national, international, and global (LONING) context-related (socio-political, economic, historic, health system factors). The broader LONING contextual factors included the unprecedented disinformation/conspiracy theories, non-sustained COVID-19 risk/behaviour change communication, enforcement and non-enforcement or termination of peculiar control policies/measures (lockdowns, social/physical distancing, use of face mask etc.), mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policies, provision of incentives, past experiences regarding the Ebola viral disease outbreak, (un)trustworthiness of the Nigerian health system and her international/global partners, and the (un)trustworthiness of the governments in Nigeria and bad/good governance, inclusive of the failure of the Ebonyi state government to distribute the COVID-19 palliatives to the people during the lockdowns. Conclusion: The evidence illuminates complex and interrelated, specific underlying, and peculiar policy-relevant LONING determinants of COVID-19 vaccination acceptance and emphasizes the need for concerted and comprehensive LONING strategies (involving all the relevant LONING stakeholders/policy makers) in addressing these determinants to increase vaccination acceptance among community members in subsequent outbreaks/pandemics in Ebonyi state/Nigeria and similar settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immunization plays a significant role in global health, yet many children in Nigeria do not receive full immunization due to several influencing factors. Therefore, this study examined the trends in Nigeria's full immunization coverage and identified key predictors that influence full coverage. Methods: The data for children aged one to five years, across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria was retrieved from the 2007, 2011, 2016/17, and 2021 national Multiple Indicator Cluster surveys We analyzed the data using univariate logistic regression. Results were presented as adjusted odds ratios (aORs), and statistical significance was set at 0.05. Results: The results showed that 12,229 children (74.2%) had been fully immunized. The trend of immunization coverage was 63.6%, 82%, 63.7%, and 76.4% in 2007, 2011, 2016/17, and 2021 respectively. Children of educated mothers (aOR: 2.6; 95% CI 1.45, 4.76) and from the richest families (aOR: 2.1; 95% CI 1.41, 3.11), were more likely to be fully immunized. Conversely, children in rural areas (aOR: 0.6; 95% CI 0.42, 0.81) and from families of more than five (aOR: 0.6; 95% CI 0.46, 0.81) were less likely to be fully immunized. Conclusion: As of 2021, the rate of full immunization coverage in Nigeria was 76.4%, an improvement from the low 2003 rate (12.3%). Maternal education and wealth index are significant sociodemographic determinants for full immunization coverage. Adopting policies that improve access to education for females nationally and access to healthcare, especially in rural areas may significantly increase full immunization coverage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lassa fever is an acute viral zoonotic illness endemic in parts of West Africa. In Nigeria, the disease causes periodic large outbreaks, putting strain on healthcare resources and infrastructure. This article reviews the burden and socioeconomic impact of Lassa fever in Nigeria. The vast majority of cases are mild or asymptomatic, however severe illness still occurs in 20% of patients. Late-stage pregnancy infection has high fatality rates. Diagnosis is challenging and early supportive care is critical for survival. The disease affects all age groups in endemic regions, especially impoverished rural communities. Outbreaks disrupt local economies and agriculture and require increased healthcare spending. Specific economic impacts include industry shutdowns, expenditure on protective equipment for healthcare workers, costs for specialized training programs and treatment facilities, high treatment costs for patients, deterrence of investors and businesses, job losses, and declines in tourism revenue. Social impacts include stigmatization of patients. Recommendations for control emphasize improvements to rural healthcare infrastructure, disease surveillance, affordable diagnostics and treatment access, community outreach and education programs, and fostering local economic growth and sustainability. A multidimensional approach engaging all levels of government and civil society is required to mitigate the burden of Lassa fever on Nigeria. This article covers the disease background, populations affected, economic and social impacts, and recommendations to address the substantial public health burden of Lassa fever outbreaks on Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mental health has come into the front burner of development challenges amid declining socio-economic outcomes, especially in developing countries. Insecurity, conflicts and extremely threatening events, which trigger mental disorders, are common in South-East Nigeria, with many military operations, unknown gunmen attacks and kidnapping leading to the cold-blood assassination and kidnap of dear ones. The study aimed to analyze the demographic, socio-economic and clinical variables for mental illness in South-East Nigeria. Consecutive sampling technique was used to obtain a three-year records of the cases of 380 index and 180 post-index points data of mental illness cases that met the inclusion criteria in a purposively selected public mental health hospital. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency count, percentages, chi-square and multinomial logistic regression. Results showed that over a half (55.0%) of the patients were males, and 65.27% had post-primary education. The mean age of patients was 39.87 years. Slightly above half of the cases (55.26%) were single and 56.84% were unemployed. Schizophrenia (68.42%) topped the list of the cases. The rate of relapse was 52.1%, with males being in the majority (61.62%). About 61.62% of those who relapsed were unemployed, 9.60% were into business/trading, and 5.05% were professionals. Those with 5 years and above illness duration had a higher percentage of relapse (52.02%) as well as those with poor drug compliance (66.16%). The mean relapse age was 34.23 years. Educational status, employment status/social class, marital status, and age were socio-economic/clinical factors that associated strongly with relapse at p-value of 0.10. Patients with ≥ 5 and ≤ 3 years duration of illness were 1.17 times on the average more likely to have relapse than those with three or less than 3 years. Onset age for illness predicted 2.479 times more likelihood of relapse. Being employed and having more family support, as against being unskilled/unemployed and not having family support, reduce the likelihood of relapse by 1.110 times on the average. The study recommended policy formulation and implementation for protection against mental illness and mental healthcare provision and access; for tackling unemployment head-on; for improvement of the access to effective treatment of mental illness; and mass education, especially among unemployed, uneducated, singles, and under-35 years of age, to help reduce the high rate of relapse of mental illness in South-East Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is limited guidance on strategies for delivering complex global health programs. We synthesized available evidence on implementation strategies and outcomes utilized in the global polio eradication initiative (GPEI) across low and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. Methods: We nested our scoping review into a literature review conducted as part of a parent study, STRIPE. This review systematically searched PubMed for articles between 1 January 1988 and 25 April 2018 using polio search terms. Strategies from included studies were organized according to the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) framework, specified using Proctor's framework, and linked to various outcomes (implementation, services delivery, impact). Results: 152 unique articles fulfilled our inclusion criteria (from 1,885 articles included in the parent study). Only 43 out of the 152 articles described a suitable quantitative study design for evaluating outcomes. We extracted 66 outcomes from the 43 unique studies. Study publication dates ranged from 1989 to 2018 and represented diverse country settings. The most common implementation strategies were developing mechanisms for feedback, monitoring, and evaluation (n = 69); increasing awareness among the population (n = 58); involving stakeholders, workers, and consumers in the implementation efforts (n = 46); conducting workshops (n = 33); using mass media (n = 31); and building robust record systems to capture outcomes (n = 31). Coverage (n = 13) and morbidity (n = 12) were the most frequently identified outcomes, followed by effectiveness (n = 9) and fidelity (n = 6). Feasibility and sustainability were rarely evaluated. Conclusions: This review provides a catalogue of implementation strategies and outcomes relevant for advancing global health services delivery in LMICs drawing from the GPEI. Implementation strategies reviewed were poorly described and not adequately linked to outcomes. It calls for additional implementation research to unravel the mechanisms of implementation strategies and their effectiveness, and adaptation of the ERIC framework in LMICs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Albinism is an inherited genetic condition, which results in a decrease or absence of pigmentation in the hair, eyes, and skin. Studies on albinism in Africa have focused on a wide range of themes with little or no effort to capture the unique experiences of women with albinism, particularly in relation to their unemployment challenges. Here, we explore the unemployment challenges of women with albinism in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria. We found that rejection based on skin color, prejudicial notion that women with albinism have body odor, general notion of their incompetence because of impaired eyesight, and stereotypical adherence to myths that albinism is bad all contribute to their exclusion from the labor force. We conclude that women with albinism in Ibadan experience double jeopardy of economic marginalization and livelihood deprivation due to their condition of albinism on one hand, and their being women, on the other hand. The article explores the lived experiences of women with albinism and barriers to their employment opportunities. Although there is no written institutional policy to discriminate against women with albinism, there are unfounded assumptions driven by ignorance of the condition. The article finds a two-fold challenge-being stigmatized for albinism and being a woman in a male centric society. While women with albinism in Nigeria are deprived access to white collar jobs, their entrepreneurial skills are also undermined in private business. There is no genuine political will to implement existing international and national laws that prohibit discrimination against people with disability. The research recommended the need to mainstream and monitor disability inclusion through education and advocacy across government ministries and human resource personnel in recruitment exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key elements, or pillars, of food security are stated as food availability, food access, food utilization, and stability. These food security pillars are often linked to food security interventions at the national, community or household level. However, if the urban 'household' is the unit of interest for any food security intervention, this research asks if a more holistic element, or pillar, is needed. The aim of this research has been to explore the socio-economic aspects of food security/insecurity that we have termed as a result of the research "food acquirability". Through the use of structured questionnaires (n = 120), and analysis of the data derived from local market and supermarket settings in the city of Awka, Nigeria, the concept of food acquirability has emerged and been conceptualized and critiqued. The contribution of this paper is to frame the concept of acquirability with regard to food security in Nigeria in order to develop a better understanding of the factors that impact household urban food security/insecurity and how they can be effectively mitigated. Factors of acquirability that emerged were culture, time poverty, resource availability and cooking skills, and household food preference and meal choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite the advancement in sexual and reproductive healthcare services and several public health measures aimed at controlling fertility rates, countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) still experience higher adolescent fertility rates than other low-and middle-income countries. This study examined the disparities in adolescent fertility in 39 countries in SSA, focusing on socioeconomic and residence-based dimensions. Methods: This study involved a secondary analysis of data obtained from 39 recent Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in SSA. The measures of difference (D), ratio (R), population attributable fraction (PAF), and population attributable risk (PAR) were estimated using the Health Equity Assessment Tool (HEAT) software version 3.1 developed by the World Health Organization. The measures: D, R, PAF, and PAR were used to examine the inequalities in adolescent fertility across the socioeconomic and residence-based dimensions. Results: Out of the 39 countries included in the study, Guinea (D=27.70), Niger (D=27.50), Nigeria (D=23.90), and Côte d'Ivoire (D=23.60) exhibited the most significant residence-based inequalities in the rate of adolescent fertility, with the higher rate observed among adolescents in rural areas. Rwanda was the sole country that showed a slight inclination towards rural inequality in terms of the rate of adolescent fertility, with a value of D = -0.80. The burden of adolescent fertility was disproportionately higher among young women with low economic status across all the countries, exacerbating wealth-based inequities. The countries with the largest absolute discrepancies were Nigeria (D=44.70), Madagascar (D=41.10), Guinea (D=41.00), and Cameroon (D=40.20). We found significant disparities in educational attainment contributing to unequal inequalities in adolescent fertility, particularly among young women who lack access to formal education. Countries such as Madagascar (D=59.50), Chad (D=55.30), Cameroon (D=54.60), and Zimbabwe (D=50.30) had the most significant absolute disparities. Conclusion: This study revealed that young women residing in rural areas, those in households with low economic status and those with limited educational opportunities experience a disproportionately high burden of adolescent fertility across the 39 countries in SSA. The current findings offer valuable information to governmental entities at all levels regarding the need to ensure the provision of equitable, accessible, and dependable sexual and reproductive health services to the populace, particularly for young women. Therefore, the various stakeholders need to enhance the effectiveness of health policies and legislation pertaining to adolescent women living in rural areas, those from economically disadvantaged households, and those with limited or no access to formal education. Such interventions could potentially reduce adolescent fertility rates and mitigate the adverse maternal and child outcomes associated with high adolescent fertility in SSA. Plain summary: Adolescent fertility is a major health problem for many developing countries, especially those in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Although several sexual and reproductive health initiatives have been introduced in these countries, the number of births among adolescents continues to be high. The present study looked at the socioeconomic and geographical differences in adolescent fertility across 39 countries in SSA using data from the Demographic and Health Surveys embedded into the World Health Organization's Health Equity Assessment Toolkit (WHO HEAT) software. The study found that in countries like Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, and Côte d'Ivoire, the rates of adolescent fertility varied a lot, with higher rates in rural areas. Generally, poorer young women were more likely to have babies, which made the gap between the rich and the poor even wider. Nigeria, Madagascar, Guinea, and Cameroon had the biggest differences. Education also played a role. In countries like Madagascar, Chad, Cameroon, and Zimbabwe, young women who did not go to school (had no education) were more likely to have children as teenagers. The study showed that in all 39 countries, young women living in rural areas, those who were poorer and those who did not go to school (had no education) faced a bigger problem with adolescent fertility. The study suggests that if people who make health policies pay more attention to teenage girls in the rural areas, those who are poor and do not have much education, they could make a significant difference in reducing adolescent fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence linking maternal subjective wellbeing (SWB) to early childhood development (ECD) is scarce. Subjective wellbeing measures an individual's negative and positive affect, life satisfaction, and optimism for the future. During ECD, growth occurs in family niches where a mother's physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing affects her child through processes that harness motor, cognitive, and socioemotional functioning. Few studies in Nigeria have examined the SWB of women and much less its association with ECD outcomes. This study examined the association of maternal and caregiver SWB with child literacy and cognitive and socioemotional indices. We posit that a primary caregiver's dissatisfaction with life and hopelessness may predispose their child to poorer developmental outcomes. We conducted a structural equation modeling using Stats 16 E and data from a nationally representative sample of Nigerian women 15 to 24 years and their focal child 3- to −4 years old (N = 3176). Findings suggest an average to a high level of SWB among the women. The SWB construct had a weak, inverse association with child outcomes. The weak direct path does not change when standardized or mediated by family investments such as early education, children's books, or stimulating activities with the child (total effects −0.04). The results also highlight the positive strength of the association of family investments and its robust path to child outcomes (total effects, 0.79, p < 0.001). The study suggests that SWB is a weak proxy for mental health. Findings also underscore the need to invest in child development, child engagement, and family strengthening programs. Highlights: Nationally representative sample showed a high subjective wellbeing (SWB) level among mothers/caregivers aged 15–24 years old. Religion and educational level are associated with high levels of SWB. Maternal happiness, life satisfaction, and optimism have weak and inverse associations with child development outcomes. Investment in early education, children's books, and stimulating activities is associated with higher child development indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Investigacion & Educacion en Enfermeria is the property of Universidad de Antioquia, Facultad de Enfermeria and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The challenge of COVID-19 and the disease control restrictions in Nigeria directly affected social life. Older adults were disproportionately affected because of social vulnerabilities, socio-economic dependency, and the high risk of COVID-19 infectious disease in the population. Purpose: To this end, the study explored the instrumental coping strategies of older adults duirng the COVID-19 lockdown in Nigeria. Research Design: An exploratory research design using qualitative approach based on in-depth interviews was adopted. Study Sample: Twenty-seven (27) older adults aged 60 years and more in Ibadan, Nigeria were purposively selected for participation in the research. Data Collection and/or Analysis: Community living older adults participated in in-depth telephone interviews during the COVID-19 restrictions. Using Atlas ti 8.4, the 27 transcripts were analyzed and validated through content analysis. Results: Older adults coped with fear, anxiety, depression, and other health challenges, and three major themes emerged as problem-focused coping strategies. Older adults explored spirituality, engaged in their social networks through telephones, and focused on a healthy diet and physical activities. Conclusions: Community health promotion strategies for older adults should explore the identified problem-focused coping strategies to optimize the health and wellbeing of older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children develop dynamically, and when a child fails to reach age-appropriate developmental milestones compared to their peers, it is considered a developmental delay. In developing nations like Nigeria, several demographics, socioeconomic, childcare and external factors may influence the highly individualised process. This study assessed the prevalence and pattern of developmental delay, across Nigeria's geopolitical zones including identified factors associated with developmental delay, providing insight for appropriate interventions to prevent disability in affected children. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), which was carried out in rounds 4 (2011) and 5 (2016/2017). Every 5 years, the UNICEF-supported MICS cross-sectional household survey is carried out using the cluster sampling method. A semi-structured, questionnaire administered by the interviewer was used to obtain individual and household-level data. This study comprised a weighted sample of 17,373 under-5 children who had complete data from both survey rounds on characteristics deemed significant for the study. Data were analysed using SPSS version 23. Using the Chi-square test and multivariate binomial logistic regression, factors linked to developmental delay were identified, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) provided and the significance level set at 5%. Results: The mean age and sex distribution of the children surveyed in both rounds was comparable, with a male preponderance of 51.2% in round 4 and 50.4% in round 5. In both round 4 (51.2%) and round 5 (49.0%), the Northeast zone had the highest prevalence of overall developmental delay while the least prevalence was seen in the Southwest zone (20.3%) and the Southeast zone (14.7%) in round 4 and round 5, respectively. Across all the zones, delay in the literacy-numeracy domain of development was the most prevalent, with the highest (91.3% and 86.7%, respectively) in the Northeast zone during both rounds of the survey. Delay in the physical domain was, however, the least prevalent form of developmental delay across the zones, with the least in South South (20.6%) and Southeast (5.4%) in rounds 4 and 5. The odds of developmental delay were 1.5 and 1.7 times higher amongst children 4 years old than 3 years old in both rounds of the survey. The likelihood of having developmental delay was found to increase with the severity of stunting amongst the children during both rounds of the survey (odds ratio [OR] =1.5; 95% CI = 1.20-1.78 in round 4 and OR = 1.4; 95% CI = 1.16-1.58 in round 5). Children from the poorest wealth index had higher odds of developmental delay (OR = 5.8; 95% CI = 4.92-6.82 in round 4 and OR = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.99-3.10 in round 5). Conclusion: The prevalence of developmental delay is high across all zones; however, the burden varies amongst them. The age of the child, nutritional status and wealth index were indicators of developmental delay in Nigerian under-5 children. This underscores the need for surveillance and interventions focussed on improving child literacy, nutritional status and household standard of living across the zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a paucity of literature on the connection between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), certain socio-contextual factors, and substance use disorder (SUD). Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the socio-contextual factors (gender, age range, educational levels, and types of settlement) and ACEs as determinants of SUD among individuals between the ages of 18-40 years in Kano, Nigeria. This study used a pack questionnaire containing socio-contextual information, a 10-item Revised Inventory of Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Drug Abuse Screening Test-20 to collect data from 599-participant. Findings showed a high (55.3%) severe SUD (addiction problem) among the participants. Individuals with a history of ACEs (parental neglect, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and emotional abuse) scored more on SUD compared with their other counterparts. Moreover, male respondents scored higher on SUD than their female counterparts. Participants with a low level of education scored higher on SUD compared with secondary and tertiary certificate holders. However, types of settlement were not related to SUD. Gender, age-range, educational levels, and ACEs are determinants of SUD among participants. Policymakers should organize programs that could ameliorate ACEs and low education. Also, emerging adults and males should be psycho-educated and trained to reduce substance use problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper addresses an acknowledged knowledge gap by exploring both impact and risk in an African cultural context. • This paper is the first to assess the same methodology at two very different site types in two very different regions. • This paper presents a bottom-up, values-based and community focused approach to understanding climate risk. • This paper presents an approach to embed sustainable change, with a strong focus on capacity building and knowledge exchange. Climate change is a major threat to global heritage and many sites are already experiencing impacts from climate change and related hazards. Recent studies have indicated that this challenge is especially acute in the African continent. Climate vulnerability assessment is increasingly a key tool in periodic reporting and ongoing site management and an essential first step in climate adaptation planning. This paper presents results from climate vulnerability assessments undertaken at two UNESCO World Heritage (WH) properties: The Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Ruins of Songo Mnara in Tanzania; and the Sukur Cultural Landscape in Nigeria. These assessments each applied a version of the Climate Vulnerability Index (CVI), a values-based, science-driven and community-focused technique. A values mapping exercise identified key heritage and socioeconomic values, including key attributes associated with the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the WH property. Downscaled climate projections were used to identify key hazards over selected emissions scenarios and timeframes, before weighing potential impacts against local adaptive capacities. Based on the timeframes and emissions scenarios, the project found OUV Vulnerability was Moderate at the Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Ruins of Songo Mnara and Low at the Sukur Cultural Landscape, whilst the Community Vulnerability was Low for both properties. The paper will conclude with some wider observations on the application of climate vulnerability assessments in an African context and a focus on lessons learned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to examine the contributing role of socio-economic status on adherence to directives from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) separatist group. A descriptive survey was used for the study, while 325 participants were sampled using the respondents' chain referral sampling technique. The study showed that socio-economic factors such as income, education and employment status contribute 35.5% to determine compliance with IPOB directives. The results of the multiple regression analysis achieved a statistical significance, R 2 = 0.355, p = 0.001, F (3,310) = 51.524. Finally, we explored the implication of these results on Integrated Separatist Agitation Theory and highlighted the scholarly and practical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: This study is aimed at determining the economic efficiency of Manihot esculenta Crantz (Cassava) production in Nigeria's Delta State. The study offers a detailed analysis of how socio-economic characteristics influence production output across both early and late farming seasons. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: This study employed a multi-stage random sampling approach in selecting a diverse cohort of 500 cassava farmers engaged in both early and lateseason cultivation. Through rigorous personal interviews, primary data was gathered that was both comprehensive and insightful. Advanced parametric statistics and the Cobb-Douglas stochastic frontier function were used for the analysis. Findings: The mean economic efficiency scores were determined to be 0.63 for early-season farms, 0.78 for late-season farms, and 0.76 when considering all farms collectively. The output elasticities of material inputs, labour, and land were found to be 0.42, 0.61, and 0.05, respectively for all farms. For early-season farms, these values were 0.36, 0.68, and 0.04, whereas, for late-season farms, they were 0.31, 0.7, and 0.03. Research Limitation/Implications: This work concentrated on Cassava production efficiency within and around Nigeria's Delta area. Practical Implication: Understanding the socio-economic factors that influence production during different seasons can help in designing strategies that maximize output in both early and late farming seasons. Social Implication: This study would help agricultural development economists and policymakers in addressing the economic problems of Cassava farmers both present and future generations. Originality/Value: By examining both early and late farming seasons, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of how socio-economic factors vary across different agricultural cycles. This dual-season approach is relatively rare and offers more detailed insights into the dynamics of cassava production throughout the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated factors influencing the allocative efficiency of the small-scale tomato (Lycopersicum species) production in Kaduna State, Nigeria: implications for food security and resource management. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 small-scale tomato farmers. The data from primary sources was collected with the help of a well-structured and well-designed questionnaire. This data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result indicates that the mean age of the small-scale tomato resource farmers is 46 years old; the mean household size of the respondents is 7 persons, while the mean resource farm size is 1.17 ha. The minimum and the maximum allocative efficiency scores of the tomato farmers are 0.30 and 0.93 respectively. The results of the profitability analysis indicate that the tomato production is profitable with a gross margin and a net farm income of N550, 960 per ha and N497, 190 respectively. The gross margin and operating ratios are 0.69 and 0.28 respectively. The resource inputs and socio-economic factors influencing the allocative efficiency of tomato production are the following: age, farm size, household size, gender, marital status, level of education, access to extension services, and membership in a cooperative organization. The study recommends that farmers should be provided with the following resource inputs: improved seeds, chemicals, fertilizer inputs, credit facilities and extension services in order to reduce resource wastages, increase efficiency and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disability is one of the various challenges that people face around the world. People with disabilities are confronted with a lot of challenges, and they experience depression, social marginalization, and isolation. The study aims to explore the situation of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. To conduct this study, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were used to collect data from 45 purposively selected study participants (40 persons living with disabilities, and 5 chairpersons of a joint association of persons living with disabilities). Findings showed that some of the challenges facing persons living with disabilities in Nigeria include environmental, educational, and socio-economic challenges. In conclusion, to overcome some of these challenges social workers should advocate for inclusive strategies and one way this can be realized is by the domestication and implementation of the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Female pastoralists exhibit great strength in the drive to make a dependable livelihood from livestock tending. This is not without challenges that are genderspecific. This paper examines the socio-economic and environmental challenges faced by women pastoralists in the Sahelian Region of Northern Nigeria. Primary data were derived from an interview of 2,290 adult female household members in 6 local government areas in Bauchi and Gombe States in Nigeria. A stepwise regression analysis determined that amongst 23 socio-economic variables, 14 were significant explanatory or predictive variables (p < 0.05) for the socioeconomic status of women, as a measure of their capacity to sustain pastoralism. The results indicate that the length of time or experience in pastoralism had the most predictive power (β = 0.31; p < 0.05), and contributed 13% (R2 = 0.13) in enhancing the socio-economic status of pastoralist women. This was followed by other socio-economic factors such as the level of formal educational attained, participation in household livestock raising, ownership of large livestock, climate change awareness, prevalence of out-of-school children within the household, availability of household transportation means, category of health care facility accessed, involvement in non-agricultural economic sectors, involvement in food crop farming, ownership of small livestock, amount of rest/sleep affordable, membership of community development groups, and age. The paper recommends support for female education in pastoral communities, access to health care in remote areas, and upgrading community development groups to cooperative or self-help groups that can provide affordable loans to assist pastoralist women in thriving better in a supposedly male-dominated profession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have focused on factors that influence adoption of innovation. Studies demonstrate that all innovations are not the same with innovations serving as units of analysis in most cases. However, the dearth of empirical literature, the focus of studies on the adoption innovation by SME owners in southwest Nigeria, and the COVID-19 pandemic effect on SMEs provide a direction for this study in southeast Nigeria. Therefore, the study concentrated on the socio-economic determinants of small marketing businesses on intention to adopt PAPSS in Abia State and Anambra State. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data from 369 small marketing business owners in different ventures in Abia State and Anambra State. Logistic regression was used to analyse the data. The results demonstrate that gender, education, type of business and experience are significant and have odd ratios of occurrence while experience has the most direct and significant likelihood to occur with additional experience. Therefore, the understanding of the socio-economic factors provides a direction intention to adopt PAPSS and subsequent adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertility rates in Nigeria are declining at such a modest rate, that if more proactive measures are not employed to reduce fertility, the nation may double its population before long. We empirically examined fertility behaviour as derivatives of specific subgroup social norms, and the variations in the factors responsible for different fertility behaviours, using the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey. Descriptive bivariate, and multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to predict the contribution of demographic and sociocultural factors contributing to the fertility level, and findings were reported as odds ratios. Results revealed that age, religion and level of education are the most significant predictors of fertility level, with remarkable differences in birth rate across subgroups, whereas North-West Nigeria had the highest fertility level. Furthermore, marriage had a significantly negative effect on high fertility among North-Western women, whereas higher education significantly increased high fertility among North-Eastern women. In conclusion, subgroup social norms fertility behaviour is responsible for the persistent fertility differential outcome in Nigeria. Thus, the paper strongly advocates the need to intensify community-led, norm-based solution and not a universal approach in addressing fertility control in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigated the intra-urban distribution of child hawking in Enugu Municipality, Nigeria. The study first enumerated child hawkers across three residential areas (core, transition and sub-urban) simultaneously on different weekdays and at different locations (activity-nuclei) in Enugu municipality. A questionnaire was then employed to obtain information from 95 incidentally selected child hawkers, comprising 49, 21 and 25, respectively. Information sourced was their socio-economic characteristics and factors influencing their taking to the street to hawk. The data were analysed using percentages, cross tabulation and standard scores. Results showed that 58.9% were males, 53.7% were out-of-school and 47.4% realized ₦501.00–₦1000.00 ($1.4USD–$2.78USD) per day. Factors influencing child hawking, measured through an index tagged 'Child Hawkers' Factor Index' (CHFI) on a 5-point Likert-type scale, showed that poverty was the most prevalent factor in the core, transition and sub-urban areas of the municipality, respectively, with (CHFI = 3.67), (CHFI = 3.64) and (CHFI = 3.37). The study further showed that there was a relationship between child hawking incidence and land use activities. It observed that the core residential area, junction, Motor Park and market land uses were generators of child hawkers. The study suggested effective urban planning and policy measures in addressing the menace of child hawking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Studies on acute glomerulonephritis (AGN) in Nigeria described the epidemiological profile without an in-depth analysis of variables associated with outcomes. Herein, we describe the profile and factors associated with hospitalization outcomes (discharge or death) among childhood AGNs at a health facility in northwestern Nigeria. Material and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between 1st January 2018 and 31st December 2019 at a tertiary health facility in northwestern Nigeria. The diagnosis of AGN was based on a clinical diagnosis. We also obtained relevant history, clinical, and laboratory features. Results: Thirty-five children were admitted with AGN during the study period. The mean age was 7.7 ± 3.3 years. Most were aged 5 to 10 years (23; 65.7%), male (60.0%), and from a lower socio-economic class (77.2%). The annual incidence of AGN was 11 cases per 1000 children. The most common clinical presentations were generalized body swelling (100.0%), reduced urine output (85.7%), and hypertension (74.3%). The medians (interquartile range) of urea and creatinine were 10.0 (4.50 to 23.90) mmol/L and 85 (67.60 to 204.00) µmol/L, respectively. Among the clinical features, only fever was associated with outcomes, while serum urea and creatinine levels were significantly higher among non-survivors, p<0.05. We recorded four deaths (case fatality rate of 11.4%), two each from congestive cardiac failure and hypertensive encephalopathy. Conclusion: This study shows a high incidence of childhood AGN and mortality in Katsina, northwestern Nigeria. Fever was associated with outcomes, while serum creatinine and urea levels were elevated among non-survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most Nigerian cities, there have been an increased number of trading in charcoals, firewood, and sawdust. Yet, the fast citing of cooking gas refilling stations in these areas requires much to be studied since their increasing number suggests great demand for cooking gas. The knowledge of the different household fuel choices and the drivers of this choice was lacking in Nigerian cities, thus the inability of energy policymakers to predict and plan household fuel agenda in Nigeria. The thrust of this paper was to analyze the household energy fuel choice and the pattern of consumption as well as analyze the household socioeconomic factors that influenced the fuel choice in the Abakaliki urban area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Stratified and simple random sampling was adopted in the study. Regression was used to consider the relationship between energy fuel choice and household socioeconomic factors. It was revealed that there was a mixture of traditional and modern energy fuel choices in the study area, with the modern energy fuel choices (gas and electricity) having higher patronage. There was a significant relationship between energy fuel choice and household socioeconomic factors. It was recommended, among others, that a clear energy fuel policy that will adopt the identified explorable household socioeconomic factors that influence the choice of energy fuel be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background For effective Public Health measures, factors that influence Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) need to be understood. In this paper, we document the relationship between levels of education on the KAP towards COVID-19 among the population of Edo State, Nigeria. Methods A cross-sectional KAP questionnaire was delivered across 13 communities. The study population was dichotomized into those who had or had not completed secondary education. Chi-square tests were conducted to determine statistical significance. Results Of the 538 participants, 30% had completed secondary education. Those with secondary education were significantly more likely to recognize symptoms of COVID-19 (P  < 0.001). For attitudes, only one option showed a statistically significant association with 78.4% of those who did not complete secondary education having a high confidence in the church compared with 66% of those who had (P  = 0.022). For practices, those who have completed secondary education practiced all of the supplied measures more than those who had not, except for taking herbal supplements. Discussion Higher levels of education impacts on knowledge and practices but has less impact on attitudes regarding how well certain individuals/organizations can handle the pandemic. Findings highlighted the importance of tailoring public health communication and strategies to local populations to improve the efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Adherence to full vaccination is important in preventing childhood diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of compliance to full vaccination and identify the socio-cultural factors associated with full vaccination compliance in children. Methodology: The socioeconomic variables associated with each of the four binary dependent variables of whether or not a child is fully vaccinated against tetanus, BCG, measles, and pentavalent were determined using logistic regression. Results: While compliance to full tetanus and BCG vaccinations was > 60% at the national level, less than 50% and 10% full vaccination compliance were recorded for pentavalent and measles vaccinations, respectively. The South East region of Nigeria recorded the overall highest full vaccination compliance while the least performing region was the North West zone. The mother or guardian literacy level, employment status, antenatal care attendance, and internet usage were strong predictors of full vaccination compliance (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The socio-cultural factors associated with achieving full vaccination coverage in Nigeria in this study should drive the implementation of policies that will be best suited to each geopolitical zone of Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nigeria was the first to announce the discovery of COVID-19 cases in Sub-Saharan Africa on the 27th of February 2020 and ever since then, the rate of spread has been rapid. The effects of Socio-Economic Indicators such as the percentage of the population below and above 65 years, Unemployment rate, HIV/AIDS prevalence rate, Population density, Literacy rate and Mortality rate on the incidence rate of COVID-19 in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. The research thus used the Spatial Modelling techniques to examine the variations in COVID-19 incidence rate in the affected states in Nigeria occasioned by the above-listed socioeconomic factors, by applying four (4) different models vis-à-vis Ordinary Least Squared (OLS), Spatial Lag Model (SLM), Spatial Error Model (SEM) and Geographically weighted regression (GWR) to cover its scope and also performed spatial diagnostic analysis to ascertain the model goodness of fit. Based on the findings, GWR outperformed other models as it explained about 97.6% of the variability among the variables in the model, has the highest Log likelihood (16.873) which shows the goodness of fit and the lowest AIC (- 4.192). More so, the results were able to estimate a consistent prediction and spatial variability of the incidence rate of COVID-19 in Nigerian states which could help drive policymaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor nutrition compromises the capacity of women to perform their vital roles as mothers and productive workers in their families, communities and society. Using a conceptual framework developed by the United Nations Children's Fund, this study determines individual-, household- and community-level factors associated with the nutritional status of Nigerian women of reproductive age. A secondary analysis of pooled data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) for 2003, 2008, 2013 and 2018 was conducted involving 82,734 non-pregnant women aged 15–49 years. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine predictors of nutritional status. Study results show that a significant proportion of the women had poor nutritional status; the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity were 12.1%, 16.8% and 7.2% respectively. Statistically significant factors associated with poor nutritional status were found at all three levels, highlighting the need for effective multidimensional, multisectoral policy interventions to address the double burden of malnutrition among women in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) are often hindered in their quest to access quality healthcare. This has a significant effect towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal SDG Target 3.7. to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services. This study is focused on identifying some of the demand side barriers in accessing health care services, particularly among young girls who are survivors of SGBV within intimate relationships in poor urban areas in Nigeria. The study used an ethnographic approach to solicit information from health providers, adolescents, and young women (AYW) in 10 low-income communities in two major cities in Nigeria, Ibadan and Lagos. Findings showed that there are structural limitations within the primary health care (PHC) system that posed a great challenge for survivors of SGBV to access services. Some of these include non-existing counseling services, a lack of rehabilitation centers, poor referral, and a lack of training for health providers in handling survivors of SGBV. There is also a lack of skills among health service providers that have negative influence on support services to survivors of SGBV. On the demand side, poor knowledge of possible health seeking pathways, a lack of education, and social support are barriers to accessing appropriate services among adolescent and young SGBV survivors. The study concluded that integrated services at the PHC level should include adequate and timely treatment for survivors of SGBV and targeted intervention to upscale skills and knowledge of health care providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Identification of dietary patterns and their association with socio-demographic factors. Design: Community-based cross-sectional study design. Setting: Urban and rural communities in Abia State, Nigeria. Participants: Eight hundred and sixty-eight (868) male and female adults aged 20 to 59 years. Methods: Identification of Dietary patterns (DP) by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) based on the consumption of 10 food groups, assessed using a 7-day qualitative food frequency questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses evaluated the association between identified patterns and socio-economic factors. Results: Two dietary patterns 'traditional and convenience DPs were identified, explaining 52% of the total variance. The traditional DP was loaded with starchy staples, vegetable soups/sauces, and animal proteins. The convenience DP was characterised by high factor loading of processed cereals, carbonated drinks and alcoholic beverages. Larger households (>3) had lower odds of adhering to high traditional DP [AOR =0.633; 95% CI (0.429-0.934); p = 0.021]. Females [AOR =1.586; 95% CI (1.104-2.279); p = 0.013] and middle-aged adults (AOR = 1.750; 95% CI (1.075-2.848);p = 0.024] were more likely to adhere to the convenience DP, whereas, the odds of adhering to the convenience pattern was lower among adults residing in rural areas [AOR =0.3161.586; 95% CI (0.219-0.456); p = 0.001]. Conclusion: Socio-economic variables (age, gender, household size and place of residence) were associated with dietary patterns among community dwellers in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetables are crucial for a healthy diet; however, when not washed properly, they can act as carriers of protozoa cysts and helminth eggs/larvae, posing a risk of transmission. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of parasitic contamination of fluted pumpkin promoted by inadequate handling conditions in Delta State, Nigeria. Samples of Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin vegetables) were collected from Effurun town and Otokutu local markets in washed and unwashed conditions and examined for parasitic contamination. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on the socio-economic factors associated with parasitic contaminations on vegetables. The vegetable samples were examined using the simple sedimentation concentration method. The educational status of the vendors was ascertained, and 75% of the vendors had secondary school education, while 25% had primary school education. Four hundred seventyeight parasitic contaminants were recovered from the 48 vegetables samples. The species and stages of parasites detected were Trichuris spp, Moniezia spp, Enterobius vermicularis, Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides spp, Hookworm eggs, Strongyle eggs Strongyloides stercoralis larvae, Schistostoma spp, Platynosomum fastosum and Eimeria spp. Fifty per cent (50%) of the produce was not washed, while 50% of the produce was washed before displaying by the retailers. The result from the paired t-test revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) in total parasitic contamination between washed and unwashed vegetable samples from both Effurun and Otokutu markets. This study showed that handling conditions of washing and the environment where vegetables are sold can influence the amount of parasitic load. Therefore, adequate washing and proper handling of raw edible vegetables before consumption are recommended. The government must create awareness and educate vegetable vendors about the importance of proper handling and hygiene, as they can play a major role in mitigating public health issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maternal health is the mother's state of well being before, during, and after conception. Studies have suggested that the increasing maternal mortality rate is preventable provided maternal health services are accessible during pregnancy. This study explored the association between socioeconomic status and the utilization of maternal health services in the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, Ogun State. Materials and Methods: This study is a cross sectional survey. One hundred and eighty eight pregnant women from the antenatal unit of a tertiary hospital in Southwestern Nigeria were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected via a pretested, self designed questionnaire. The descriptive statistics were used to analyze the resulting data, and the hypotheses were tested using the Pearson product moment correlation at 0.05 level of significance. Result: From the study, 72 (38.30%) and 58 (30.90%) agreed that their income and occupation influence their maternal health services utilization. Significant relationship (p < 0.05) existed between maternal health service utilization and age and between socioeconomic factors (occupation and income level) and utilization of maternal health services of pregnant women. Conclusions: Overall, this study revealed that the level of utilization of maternal health services among expectant women attending FMC is moderate. As this study has shown that socioeconomic factors influence the utilization of maternal health services, we recommend that interventions by health workers targeted at improving the utilization of maternal health services should consider these factors when designing such interventions. It is hoped that this will contribute to reducing maternal mortality and morbidity in this state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Childhood is a period of rapid physical, emotional and cognitive development and nutrition plays a key role in infant health and well-being. Malnutrition occurs when a child does not receive adequate nutrients from diet due to multifaceted underlying factors that differ across geographical regions. Maintaining adequate nutrition have been established to be influenced by diverse factors and these associated factors have been understudied in the locality of study. This study investigated socio-economic and cultural determinants of nutrition in under-five children in Southeastern Nigerian. Descriptive cross-sectional study using a validated structured questionnaire was done among randomly selected 153 mothers of under-five children accessing healthcare in a rural health center in Amechi community of Enugu state, Nigeria. Data were analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 24.0 using descriptive statistics of proportions, percentages, mean and standard deviations. Majority of the respondents (n=117, 76.5%) were married, 134(87.6%) attained secondary education, 50(32.7%) were self-employed with 53(34.6%) making fifteen thousand naira (₦15,000) monthly income. Financial constraint (3.39±1.03), lack of spousal support (2.60±0.87), children's food preferences (2.69±0.98), peer influence over choice of food (3.54±0.92) and conflict with mothers and mother in-laws over practice of exclusive breastfeeding adversely influenced nutrition (2.65±0.96). Financial empowerment and stronger family support can enhance nutritional practice in poor resource communities thereby curbing malnutrition in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a paucity of information on the use of traditional medicine TM to improve sexual performance. This study aims to assess the prevalence and self-reported adverse effects associated with the use of TM as a sexual enhancer in northern Nigeria. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional design among adults aged 18 years and above, who are residing in northern Nigeria. A mixed-mode approach was utilized using face-to-face interviews and an online survey. For the online survey, a link to the questionnaire was shared on the social media platforms of the targeted participants. Results: A total of 794 eligible participants completed the survey over the six weeks. Of this number, 508 reported ever using TM for sexual enhancement, with a prevalence of 64% (95% CI: 60.5, 67.3). About 30 (3.8%) reported daily use, 49 (4.9%) weekly, 65 (8.2%) monthly and 473 (59.6%) as when needed. Islamic medicine was the most frequently implicated TM. Most respondents obtained it TM practitioners 213 (26.8%). Participants 164 (20.7%) reported experiencing side effects, mostly headaches 59 (35.9%), and 31 (3.9%) were severe (required hospitalization). Predictors of TM use for sexual enhancement were found to be gender, marital status, number of wives, ethnicity, educational level, and lifestyle. Conclusion: The use of TM for sexual enhancement is common among the adult population in northern Nigeria. One out of five of the users reported an adverse event. Therefore, there is a need for improved awareness of the safe use of the TM in the community, especially among females, those with multiple wives, a low education level, and poor lifestyles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The socioeconomic factors driving the adoption of birth limitation and lengthening birth intervals as fertility control mechanisms in sub-Saharan Africa are a subject of debate. There are also arguments over what accounts for the low performance of the adopted fertility control mechanisms, and the break experienced in the fertility transition process. To fill the gaps, the authors work from a life-course perspective and linked data from the National Bureau of Statistics and the National Population Commission to collect retrospective data from 416 participants. Drawing on the socioeconomic framework, the roles of unemployment and grandparental support in reproductive decisions were tested. Results suggest that the unemployment situation is an underlying mechanism that triggered the adoption of birth control measures in Nigeria. The results also suggest that grandparental support accounts for the slow pace of the fertility transition process. This current study concludes that the unemployment situation pressures parents to reduce the number of childbirth. However, where grandparental support for grandchildren is available, parents tend to have a large family size in line with the pro-natalist nature of Nigerians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates how Nigerian consumers perceive and use Islamic banking. Data were gathered using a quantitative research technique using a standardized questionnaire that was given to 400 individuals, only 345 of them completed it and returned it. The study examines the variables that affect consumer behavior, such as religious beliefs, cultural norms, economic concerns, and societal influences. It evaluates the degree of understanding and awareness of Islamic banking concepts among Muslims and non-Muslims and identifies any potential misconceptions or obstacles preventing non-Muslims from accepting Islamic banking more widely. The investigation of the influence of socioeconomic factors on perception, as well as the potential and problems related to the acceptance and expansion of Islamic banking, are emphasized. The results of this study offer insightful analysis and suggestions for the growth and promotion of Islamic banking in Nigeria, with the goal of fostering greater public acceptance and adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on energy conservation and household behavior were predominantly based on econometrics using secondary data, with limited studies employing primary data. In addition, secondary data from developing countries are not without their inadequacies due to missing data points. However, generating data may lead to over or underestimations which led to this study deploying a structural equation model and using cross-sectional data from a developing country perspective. With 329 respondents from each household in Akure Metropolis, Nigeria, who were chosen at random to fill the structured questionnaire provided the data. The Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling method was used for the study. The study's findings demonstrated that socioeconomic factors such as home size, income, number of appliances, and weather substantially impact people's behavior regarding energy conservation, with income having the highest structural weight. This suggests that income is crucial to residents' electricity-saving habits since households with higher incomes use more electricity and conserve it less. Therefore, it is advisable that policies to save energy focus on limiting the purchasing power per unit at the household level, where the wealthy pay more tax than the poor. This would encourage improvements in energy conservation in the Nigerian economy's household sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a gradual tendency towards prolonged bachelorhood among men in Nigeria. Studies have linked this to socio-economic factors, but this evidence is sparsely explored in the context of Nigeria. Hence, this study fills the knowledge gap. The 2016/17 Nigeria Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey data of 7803 adult men (aged 18–34 years) was analysed by using descriptive and fitting binary logitic regression and Cox regression models. Results show that slightly more than one-third of adult men in Nigeria (35%) had a marriage history and their median age at first marriage was about 24 years. Educated men (than the uneducated) and those in middle wealth group (than the poor men) were less likely to have ever been married and to delay marriage, respectively. Wealthy men were more likely to delay marriage. Employed men were more likely to have a marriage history and to delay marriage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Τhe global economic downturn during the pandemic and the current geopolitical tensions may be marking a resurgence in maritime piracy, rendering close examination of its determinants useful for the international shipping industry and for policymakers. We contribute to pertinent literature by focusing on legal factors that affect sea piracy in Nigeria and Somalia, two countries that feature prominently among the traditional piracy hotspots of West and East Africa respectively. Using data for the period 2002–2020 and panel estimation, we assert prior research by finding institutional factors, mainly corruption, and socioeconomic factors, notably youth unemployment, being conducive to maritime piracy. Specifically, we find institutional factors to be more important for Nigeria, while socioeconomic factors to stand out in the case of Somalia. The results obtained confirm our key hypothesis that in both cases examined pirates have a preference to attack ships with Western European countries' flags, where legislation tends to be less severe in terms of punishment for the crime of maritime piracy. Our findings support the argument that to discourage pirates from exploiting differences in national legal frameworks worldwide, deterrence of maritime piracy needs to be coordinated at the international level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescent maternal healthcare utilisation is low in Nigeria, and little is understood about the pregnancy experiences and drivers of maternal healthcare utilisation among of adolescent girls. This study investigated the pregnancy experiences and maternal healthcare utilisation among adolescent mothers across Nigeria. Methods: The study used the qualitative design. Urban and rural communities in Ondo, Imo and Katsina states were selected as research sites. Fifty-five in-depth interviews were conducted with adolescent girls who were currently pregnant or had given birth to a child recently, and nineteen in-depth interviews were conducted with older women who were either mothers or guardians of adolescent mothers. Additionally, key informant interviews were conducted with five female community leaders and six senior health workers. The interviews were transcribed, and resulting textual data were analysed via framework thematic analysis using a semantic and deductive approach, with the aid of NVivo software. Results: The findings showed that the majority of unmarried participants had unintended pregnancies and stigma against pregnant adolescents was common. Social and financial support from family members, maternal support and influence, as well as healthcare preferences shaped by cultural and religious norms were the major drivers of maternal healthcare use among adolescent mothers, and the choice of their healthcare providers. Conclusions: Interventions to support adolescent mothers and increase maternal healthcare utilisation among them must focus on ensuring the provision of social and financial support for adolescent mothers, and should be culturally sensitive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)