BC-Department of Environmental Health

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    Implications of Urban Livestock Farming on Meat Quality: Assessment of Selected Heavy Metals in Meat Consumed in Eldoret Town, Kenya and their Health Implications on Consumers
    (VDM Verlag Dr. Müller, 2010) Nyamari, J. M.; Gelas, M.
    The main objective of this study was to assess levels of selected heavy metals lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in meat consumed in Eldoret Town, Kenya. This study focused on Liver and Kidney of bovine, since these are depository sites for toxic heavy metals.404 samples of liver and kidney were collected, dried and ground, two grams of dried samples were wet digested using concentrated nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide and the digest was analyzed for Pb and Cd using flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer - Varian 200 Lead concentrations in liver ranged from 0.01 - 0.33mg/kg, while Cd was 0.001 - 0.17mg/kg. In kidney samples, Pb ranged from 0.01 - 0.33mg/kg, while Cd, ranged from 0.001 - 0.436mg/kg. The maximum concentrations of Pb and Cd found in liver and kidney were from animals samples obtained from urban areas. Most of the samples had concentrations below maximum levels recommended by the WHO / FAO, but considering that relatively higher concentrations were observed in animals from urban areas, there is need to educate public about the dangers of keeping animals for consumption in urban areas, and there is need for continuous monitoring studies to ensure meat is free from heavy metals
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    Health Implications of Urban Livestock Farming on Meat Quality: Assessment of Selected Heavy Metals in Meat Consumed in Eldoret Town, Kenya and Their Health Implications on Consumers
    (VDM Verlag Dr. Müller, 2010-02-17) Nyamari, J. M.; Simiyu, Gelas
    The main objective of this study was to assess levels of selected heavy metals lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in meat consumed in Eldoret Town, Kenya. This study focused on Liver and Kidney of bovine, since these are depository sites for toxic heavy metals.404 samples of liver and kidney were collected, dried and ground, two grams of dried samples were wet digested using concentrated nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide and the digest was analyzed for Pb and Cd using flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer - Varian 200 Lead concentrations in liver ranged from 0.01 - 0.33mg/kg, while Cd was 0.001 - 0.17mg/kg. In kidney samples, Pb ranged from 0.01 - 0.33mg/kg, while Cd, ranged from 0.001 - 0.436mg/kg. The maximum concentrations of Pb and Cd found in liver and kidney were from animals samples obtained from urban areas. Most of the samples had concentrations below maximum levels recommended by the WHO / FAO, but considering that relatively higher concentrations were observed in animals from urban areas, there is need to educate public about the dangers of keeping animals for consumption in urban areas, and there is need for To ensure continuous monitoring studies meat is free from heavy metals.
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    Identification and Characterization of the Microbial Contaminants: of Herbal Medicines in Kenya
    (VDM Verlag Dr. Müller, 2011) Nyamari, J. M.; Onyambu, Meshack
    With the ever increasing use of herbal medicines and the global expansion of the herbal medicines market, safety has become a concern for both health authorities and the public in many countries. This is because many contaminants and residues that may cause harm to the consumers have been reported. Many are natural such as naturally occurring radioxides, toxic metals, bacteria and fungi. Some arise from past and present use of agents or materials that pollute the environment and subsequently medicinal plants, such as emissions from factories or the residues of certain pesticides. For these reasons, there is currently a global danger to the health and well-being of the people. These risks can be reduced by ensuring that there is enough surveillance of herbal medicines so that those with harmful contaminants and residues above recommended limits do not reach the public. This study therefore was aimed at identification and characterization of the microbial contaminants in herbal medicines sold in Kenyan herbal clinics, Chemists, supermarkets and streets. The microbial loads were established and the contaminants isolated and identified.
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    Participation of Community Health Care Workers in Enhancing Long-Acting and Reversible Contraceptives in Married Women in Kilifi County, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Mbatah, Jared Adams
    Community health workers (CHWs) play a vital role in enhancing the utilization of long-acting and reversible contraceptives (LARCs). Since CHWs serve as trusted sources of information and support within their communities makes them instrumental in enhancing the utilization of LARCs among married women and contributing to improved maternal and reproductive health outcomes. Kenya faces significant challenges in ensuring widespread access to and utilization of LARCs among married women despite the proven benefits of these contraceptive methods in preventing unintended pregnancies and improving maternal and child health outcomes. The study assessed the participation of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in enhancing the utilization of long-acting and reversible contraceptives (LARCs) among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; To determine the level of knowledge of CHWs in enhancing utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya; To establish the health and community support systems available for the CHWs in enhancing utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya; To evaluate the health and community systems barriers that hinder the participation of CHWs in in enhancing utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya; To investigate the resources available for CHWs that can enhance their participation in promoting utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya. The study was anchored on the Health Belief Model (HBM). A descriptive research design was adopted, employing both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions were conducted with CHWs, healthcare providers, and community members to gather insights into their experiences, perceptions, and challenges related to LARC promotion. The study was conducted in selected Sub–County hospitals in Kilifi County. The study population was 246 CHWs working in Kilifi County. Study participants will be selected through purposive sampling. The study used structured questionnaires to collect quantitative data. The study also conducted focused group discussions and key informant interviews. Data collected was organized and entered into SPSS Version 24. This was then presented through tables, charts and narratives. Logistic regression was used to assess the levels of association. The strength of the association was measured using a 95% confidence level. The study findings revealed that level of knowledge of CHWs, community support systems, resources available for CHWs did enhance utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya. It was concluded that participation of CHWs enhanced utilization of LARCs among married women in Kilifi County, Kenya. Overall, the study findings underscored the importance of equipping CHWs with adequate knowledge, resources, and support to effectively promote LARC utilization among married women in Kilifi County. Addressing the identified barriers and implementing the recommendations can contribute to improving reproductive health outcomes and empowering women to make informed choices about their contraceptive needs.