RP-Department of Environmental Health

Permanent URI for this collection

https://repository.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/5369

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 37

Accessibility factors associated with adherence to healthy timing and spacing of pregnancy among women of reproductive age in Kilifi County, Kenya
(International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, 2024-09) Supaki, Esther K.; Owaka, Isaac O.; Mutisya, Redempta K.; Okari, Geoffrey M.; Matok, Vincent O.
Background:Globally, about 25% of births occur with shorter intervals annually with over 12 million underage pregnancies mostly from Sub-Saharan Africa. Kenya records about 20% teenage pregnancies while Kilifi County reported 28.9%. In Kilifi County, 19.6% of births do not adhere to the 24-month birth-interval. The study focused on establishing accessibility factors associated with adherence to healthy timing and spacing of pregnancy (HTSP) among reproductive age women in Kilifi County, Kenya. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted with a sample of 293 respondents. All required approvals and consent were obtained. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires. Descriptive data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 and inferential statistics computed through Chi-square tests. Results: About 60.1% respondents adhered to heathy timing and spacing of pregnancy, 69.4% teenage pregnancies occurred and 67.1% of women adhered to the 24-month inter-birth interval. Availability of family planning (FP) services (p=0.008), experience with providers (p=0.005), cost of accessing FP (p=0.001) and source of information (p=0.002) were associated with HTSP. Conclusions: About 4 out of 10 women of reproductive age in Kilifi County do not adhere to the recommended HTSP. Accessibility factors such as cost and availability of family planning services, source of information and experience with healthcare providers significantly influenced adherence to HTSP. The Ministry of Health and relevant stakeholders should scale up awareness activities, provide mobile clinics and concentrate on regular continuous medical education among healthcare providers to enhance their role in provision of reproductive health services.
Aflatoxin Bioaccumulation in Broiler Chicken Meat and Organs from Selected Farms in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(International Organization Of Scientific Research (IOSR), 2023) Chepkosgei, Kirinyet Ruth; Njogu, Warutere Peterson; Nguhiu, Purity; Ojola, Patroba; Kirinyet, Joel; Koskei, Peter; Ndiritu, Alex Karuiru
Background: Food safety is a worldwide concern not only to policymakers but also to the general population. Food is regarded as safe when there is assurance that no damage will accrue from its consumption. Aflatoxins pose a major risk to the health of both humans and animals. Studies on residue levels in broiler chicken are limited in Kenya hence grounded on this knowledge, this study sought to determine aflatoxin residue levels in broiler meat and organs in Nairobi City County. Materials and Methods: The study employed a longitudinal study design for a period of six weeks. A total of 42 broilers were sampled. Samples were analyzed using the LC-MS/MS technique. Data was analyzed using STATA version 12. Tukey Kramer post hoc test was used for comparison of means and statistical significance was determined at 5%. Ethical approval was sought from relevant authorities before commencement of the study and consent was sought from the participants before taking part in the study. Results: Results from the study show that there was a significant association (p<0.05) in AFB1 and Total Aflatoxin levels in the gizzard, liver and muscle per week. AFB1 levels in the gizzard were below the WHO/FAO limit of 5 ppb however they were above the EU limit of 2ppb in week 5 and 6. In the liver AFB1 levels were above the EU limit in week 4, 5 and 6 and above the WHO/FAO limit in week 6.In the muscle AFB1 levels were all below the WHO/FAO and EU limit. Total Aflatoxin levels in the liver were above the EU limit in week 4, 5 and 6 and above the WHO/FAO limit in week 6. In the muscle Total Aflatoxin levels were all below the WHO/FAO and EU limit. Conclusion:The results of the study suggest that there were appreciable levels of aflatoxin in the liver and gizzard hence there is need for continuous surveillance and monitoring of aflatoxin levels in feed by regulatory bodies, county and national government to prevent carry over in meat.
Assessment of the Knowledge on Pre Conception Care among Women of Reproductive Age in Ruiru Sub-County, Kiambu County, Kenya
(International Peer Reviewed Journal and Book Publishing, 2018) Chepngetich, Joyce; Keraka, Margaret; Njagi, Joan
Purpose: The study aimed at determining the knowledge on pre conception care among women of reproductive age in Ruiru Sub-County, Kiambu County. Materials and methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study design was used with a target population of 65,045 women of reproductive age, para one and above in Ruiru sub-county. Simple random sampling method was used to select study participants. A total of 384 women of reproductive age took part in the study. A semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data and Focused Discussion groups. Quantitative data from the questionnaire was checked daily for completeness and coded for appropriate computer entry. Thematic content analysis was done for Qualitative data from the FGDs and triangulated during discussion. Thereafter, data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 statistical package. Univariate and bivariate data analysis were involved. Chi-square was used to determine the significance of associations between variables. Data finding were then presented using tables, pie charts and bar graphs. Results: There is low level of knowledge on preconception care services among the study participants with a larger proportion who have never heard about the services and not able to name the components of preconception care and the main source of information was obtained from the health workers in the hospitals. Recommendations: Health education of women of reproductive age on preconception care services, its components and importance in the health facilities and institutions of higher learning so that they can have the knowledge on preconception care services hence increasing its utilization. This is because the utilization of preconception care services is influenced by the level of education, occupation and age.
Associated factors with Puerperal Sepsis among Reproductive Age Women in Nandi County, Kenya
(Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, 2017) Chepchirchir, Maritim Violet; Nyamari, Jackim; Keraka, Margaret
Background & aim: Studies have shown that puerperal sepsis is a major cause of maternal morbidity and the second cause of maternal mortality in the developing world. This study aimed to determine the incidence and management of puerperal sepsis among the women of reproductive age (i.e., 15-49 years) attending to two hospitals in Nandi County, Kenya. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on 215 women who were diagnosed with puerperal sepsis and referred to two hospitals in Nandi County. Four health care providers in charge of these patients were also included in the study. The sampling was performed using the purposive sampling technique. The data were collected using a structured interview administered by the researcher. Data analysis was performed through SPSS version 20 using the Chi-square test and logistic regression. Results: According to the results of the study, there was a statistically significant relationship between antenatal care attendance and labor duration (OR=0.35, 95% CI: 0.15-0.80). The mothers who had a short labor were 0.35 times more likely to have attended health care facilities to receive antenatal care as compared to those with a long labor. In addition, the food availability showed a significant relationship with duration of labor (OR=5, 95% CI: 1.8-14.28). The mothers with adequate food were five times more likely to experience a short labor compared to those with food shortage. The results also revealed that there was a lack of knowledge on the etiology of infection in the area under investigation. Moreover, the health care facilities were short of the adequate prerequisites to perform puerperal sepsis awareness both in the clinics and community. Conclusion: The findings of the present study underscored the necessity of supplying funds by the Ministry of Health to raise the individuals’ awareness on puerperal sepsis and provide them with hygiene education in the investigated area. The integration of hygiene education and puerperal sepsis awareness into antenatal care services should be performed as a strategy to prevent and control the infection.
Association between attitude and menstrual hygiene management practices among adolescent girls with disabilities in selected schools in Wajir County, Kenya
(International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, 2024-09) Jama, Abdiwahit A.; Mutisya, Redempta K.; Njuguna, Christine W.; Matoke, Vincent O.; Okenyoru, Douglas S.
Background: Menstruation is the recurrent peeling of the uterine lining that occurs monthly on girls and women of the reproductive age. Many adolescent girls in African countries have poor knowledge regarding menstruation and this is even worse among menstruating girls with disabilities who are faced with a greater challenge as they require private and specific sanitation facilities. The study focused on establishing the association between attitude and menstrual hygiene management practices among adolescent girls with disabilities in selected schools in Wajir County. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted. Census method was used to select respondents where 101 were interviewed. Pretested questionnaires were used to collect data. All necessary research approvals from relevant institutions were obtained as well as consent and assent sought from respondents and guardians where applicable. Data was managed using SPSS version 22.0 software. Results: Most 88.1% of the respondents did not practice menstrual hygiene management. Further results revealed that 98.9% of those who had negative attitude had not practiced menstrual hygiene management. There was a significant statistical association between nature of attitude and practice of MHM (χ2=11.009, p*=0.029). Conclusions: About 9 out of 10 adolescents with disabilities in Wajir County did not practice menstrual hygiene management. The nature of attitude towards menstrual hygiene management was significantly associated with practice. The study recommended provision of free sanitary pads by relevant stakeholders to all girls who are living with disabilities and provision of enough washrooms to address privacy issues
The background, social support and behavioural characteristics associated with health insurance coverage among the older population in Kisii County, Kenya
(2012-07) Nyagero, J.; Gakure, R.; Keraka, M.; Mwangi, M.; Wanzala, P.
Introduction: Universal health coverage has increasingly become the focus for improved health systems worldwide. In Kenya, the older populations are characterized by low health insurance coverage, resulting in either limited access to quality health care services or catastrophic expenditure on health. This paper seeks to assess the background, social support and behavioural characteristics that are associated with being insured among the older population. Methods: A two level random cluster sampling technique was used to select two rural sites in Kisii County and 1,104 older persons interviewed. The Pearson chi square and the adjusted odds ratio at 95% confidence interval computed in the binary logistic regression was used to analyze the data. Results: Only 5.9% of the older population had been insured. The multivariate regression model found that health insurance coverage was significantly associated with secondary school level of education (p<0.001, AOR 3.68, 95% CI 1.92 7.07), employment history (p=0.002, AOR 2.64, 95% CI 1.43 4.86); being a member of a social welfare group (p=0.002, AOR 3.03, 95% CI 1.51 6.08) and taking of alcohol (p=0.050, AOR 1.85, 95% CI 1.00 3.33). Conclusion: Health insurance coverage remains low among the older population in rural Kenya. Contrary to previous studies, social support such as from the adult children and relatives do not significantly influence being insured among the older population. There is need to enhance the number of older persons who are insured through strengthened sensitization of social support and health promotion.
Carry Over Effect of Aflatoxin from Broiler Feed to Broiler Meat and Organs in Chicken raised in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(IOSR, 2023) Chepkosgei, Kirinyet Ruth; Njogu, Warutere Peterson; Purity, Nguhiu
Background: Aflatoxin is a threat and a food safety concern particularly in developing countries due to the climatic conditions that favor the growth of the aflatoxin fungi. Consequently, this is a major risk to feed ingredients used in the manufacture of animal feed and subsequently a great risk to human consumers due to the detrimental effects of these toxins. Since there are no documented studies on carry over effect of aflatoxin in broilers in Kenya, a study to establish the carry over effect of aflatoxin in broiler chicken was carried out in Nairobi City County. Materials and Methods: The study employed a longitudinal study design where by broiler chicken were followed for a period of six weeks. The broilers were sampled from six farms in six sub counties within Nairobi City County hence, a total of 42 birds were sampled.The samples obtained were meat (muscle, liver and gizzard), feed and water and were analyzed using the LC-MS/MS technique to determine the Aflatoxin levels.The carry over effect in this study was determined statistically. STATA version 12 was used to analyze the data. Tukey Kramer post hoc test was used for comparison of means and statistical significance was determined at 5%. Results:There was a statistical significant difference (p<0.05) in the carry over ratio of aflatoxin per week. The highest carry over ratio of >10% was observed in the liver, followed by the gizzard and the least was in the muscle.The highest transfer ratio was observed in week 5 and 6 in the liver and in week 6 in the muscle. The carry over ratio in the muscle was below 1%. Conclusion:The study concludes that it is less safe to consume the liver and gizzard as the transfer is high however it is safer to consume the muscle as the transfer is low. There is need to constantly monitor aflatoxin levels in feed and feed ingredients hence prevent carry over into animal tissues consequently reducing risk to humans.
Child Morbidity and Mortality in Slum Environments along Nairobi River
(Organization for Social Science Research in Eastern and Southern Africa, 2003) Keraka, M.; Wamicha, W. N.
The problem that guided this study was that child mortality and morbidity disparities continue to be observed in the era of improved expansion of the provision of health care services. Some areas have low mortality and morbidity while others such as the slums of Nairobi have high. Various factors may account for this scenario. On the one hand, this would be because of uneven distribution of health facilities. On the other hand, environmental factors may be the major contributors to this high rate of morbidity and mortality. Environmental factors have been analysed in thecontext of socio-economic, socio-cultural and health environments. The aim of this study was therefore to examine the impact of slum environments on morbidity and mortality profile in slum environments along Nairobi River. The main objectives were: first, to assess the influence of environmental factors on child morbidity and mortality, and second, to analyse the influence of the perception and behaviour patterns of slum dwellers on child mortality and morbidity. The data used in this study was collected using in-depth interviews and extensive literature review. The key findings of the study included the fact that poverty is a major factor in child morbidity and mortality. It is because of low-income levels that the families concerned were not able to improve the sanitation that was in turn going to improve the health status of the children. The study therefore recommended that the government should give small loans to slum dwellers, which they can use to start income- generating activities. This can help generate some money that may improve childcare practices.
Comparison of Pesticide Residue Levels in Tomatoes from Open Fields, Greenhouses, Markets and Consumers in Kirinyaga County, Kenya
(Research Gate, 2022) Momanyi, Nakhungu Violet; Keraka, Nyanjoka Margaret; Atieno, Abong’o Deborah; Warutere, Njogu Peterson
The study was carried out to determine and compare pesticide residue levels in tomatoes from Mwea Irrigation Scheme. Thirty five tomato samples of Rambo variety randomly collected from open fields, greenhouses, markets and consumers were analyzed using QuEChERS method. Results showed that pesticide residue leve;s from greenhouse tomatoes was higher compared to open fields, markets and consumers. Alpha-cypermethrin level in greenhouse tomatoes (0.0871±0.0087mg/kg) was significantly (p<0.01) higher than from consumers (0.0218±0.0061mg/kg) while difenoconazole from greenhouse tomatoes (0.2597±0.0522 mg/kg) was significantly (p<0.05) higher than from the open field (0.0295±0.0014 mg/kg). Carbendazim level in greenhouse (1.2341±0.1667 mg/kg) tomatoes was significantly (p<0.001) higher than from open fields (0.0596±0.0178 mg/kg), markets (0.1160±0.0490 mg/kg) and consumers (0.0494±0.0155 mg/kg). Imidacloprid in greenhouse tomatoes (0.1446±0.0086 mg/kg) was significantly (p<0.001) higher than from the markets (0.0236±0.0019 mg/kg) and consumers (0.0170±0.0017 mg/kg). High pesticide residue levels in tomatoes are a health concern for consumers. Enforcing the food safety laws, enhancing farmer training on safe use of pesticides and creating awareness on pesticide risks would promote production of uncontaminated crops consumed locally.
Compliance to Occupational Safety and Health Practices among Workers in Flower Farms in Embu County, Kenya
(Full Length Research, 2021) Gechemba, Barongo Bevalyne; Warutere, Peterson Njogu; Makau, Isaac K
The implementation of occupational safety and health in workplaces is of significance in improving safety working condition in horticultural sector in Kenya. The main objective of the study was to assess the level of compliance to occupational health practices among flower farm workers in Embu County, Kenya. Specific objectives were to determine risk identification and assessment practices among flower farms in Embu County, Kenya, to determine the level of compliance on surveillance of worker’s health among flower farms in Embu County, Kenya and to determine the degree of occupational safety and health awareness among flower farm workers in Embu County, Kenya. A descriptive crosssectional research design was used. The study population was 859 comprised of employees working in flower farms in Embu County. A sample size of 300 selected through stratified random sampling. Structured questionnaires, observational checklist, FGD and KII were also utilized to collect data. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistic technique and inferential analysis technique Pearson’s Moment Correlation and regression. The study revealed that there is a strong, significant positive correlation between OSH Risk identification and assessment practices and compliance with Safe Work Environment (r=0.799, P=0.001<0.01). The study established that Surveillance of workers’ health had a strong, significant, positive influence on compliance with occupational Safety and health practices in Flower farms in Embu County (r=0.711, P=0.021<0.05 ). Further, the study established that the degree of awareness on safety and health has a strong, significant and positive correlation with Compliance of Occupational Safety and Health practices (r=0.721, P=0.037<0.05. The study concluded that there was a high level of risk identification and assessment practices thus improving the level of compliance with OSH practices in the flower farms in Embu County. The study concluded that there exists a health surveillance program indicating compliance to OSH practices in the flower farms in Embu County. From the results, there was high level of employee awareness on safety and health among the workers a predictor of level of compliance with OSH practices in the flower farms in Embu County.
Demographic Study of Ionizing Radiation Exposure of Quarry Workers in Some Selected Quarries in Nyamira County, Kenya
(Environmental Health Insights, 2020) Makori, Kerubo Ruth; Warutere, Peterson Njogu; Nyamari, Jackim; Arika, Wycliffe
Cumulative effects of exposure to ionizing radiation results in oxidative-induced damage and genetic mutations that are prerequisites for many pathologies including cancer. An understanding of term “ionizing radiation,” its injurious effects and mitigation measures is therefore, imperative. The present study aimed at investigating the awareness of the term “ionizing radiation,” its injurious effects and preventive measures among quarry workers within Nyamira County, Kenya. An analytical cross-sectional study design was adopted and data collected through administration of questionnaires. The results revealed that majority of the sampled quarry workers indicated inadequacy in understanding the term “ionizing radiation,” its injurious effects and preventive measures against ionizing radiation exposures. However, it was noted that level of education and working experience of quarry workers positively correlated with the understanding of the term “ionizing radiation,” injurious effects and intervention approaches against ionizing radiation exposures irrespective of gender and age. Therefore, there is need for stakeholders to build capacity on ionizing radiation, its effects, and preventive measures against exposures to ionizing radiation among the quarry workers and the general public.
Determinants of Unmet Family Planning Needs among Women of Reproductive Age between 15 and 49 Years in Siaya County, Kenya
(Pan African Medical Journal, 2025-07) Ameso, Ruth Anyango; Gitonga, Eliphas; Owaka, Isaac Ogweno
Introduction: unmet need for family planning is still a major public health issue, impacting maternal and child health outcomes. In Kenya, 14% of women desire to avoid or delay a pregnancy but are not using contraceptives. Unmet need differs across counties, with Siaya having a high unmet need at 21% despite the target to eliminate unmet need for family planning. This study sought to establish determinants of unmet family planning needs among women of reproductive age (WRA) between 15 and 49 years in Siaya County, Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to address three specific objectives: to determine the level of unmet needs among WRA, socio-demographic characteristics of WRA, assess the level of knowledge on family planning and to determine attitudes towards family planning among WRA. Methods: the study presents findings from the baseline phase of a larger quasi-experimental study design. It utilized a mixed research design. The study adopted the World Health Organization's 30 by 30 2-stage cluster sampling method. The FANTA sample size formula was applied to arrive at 724 respondents. A total of 728 women of reproductive age participated in the study. The study included sexually active WRA, married women, or women in a companion. The study targeted over 67,023 women already in such unions and sexually active, which served as the sampling frame for the study. The current study, being a baseline study, results after the health education intervention will be presented in another study. Results were presented in tables and figures. Ethical guidelines and procedures upheld during the study included informed consent, voluntary participation of participants, confidentiality, data security measures, assent for the minors, and usage of research licenses and approval from the ethics from the school. Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS version 28.0. The statistical analysis was undertaken in two steps: bivariate analysis and multivariate analysis. Results: a total of 728 women of reproductive age participated in the study. The majority (45.2%) of the women were aged 25 to 34 years. Results showed that most (64.0%) of the women demonstrated a high level of knowledge, scoring 80% or above. However, only 2.7% had a low level of knowledge, with aggregate scores below 50%. The majority (75.5%) of the women had a positive attitude, with 24.5% having a negative attitude. The prevalence of unmet need was 52.7%. The proportion of unmet need was significantly more (COR = 1.61; 95%CI = 1.19 - 2.19; p = 0.002) among women with a low or moderate level of knowledge on family planning compared to those women with a high level of knowledge. Women aged 15 to 24 years were 3.43 times more likely to have unmet need for family planning compared to those aged 35 to 49 years (COR = 3.43; 95%CI = 2.23 - 5.26; compared to those women with a positive attitude. Conclusion: the study concludes that social-demographic factors such as education, age, or economic activity significantly influenced the unmet needs for family planning. Knowledge significantly influenced the unmet needs for family planning, where WRA with lesser knowledge were more likely to experience unmet needs. Lastly, Attitudes such as perceived harm of using contraceptives and stigmatization from their use significantly increased the odds of unmet family planning needs.
Determination of Knowledge Based on Aflatoxin Poisoning among Broiler Farmers in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Microbiology Research Journal International, 2023) Chepkosgei, Ruth; Njogu, Warutere Peterson; Nguhiu, Purity; Ojola, Patroba; Kirinyet, Joel; Koskei, Peter
Background: There is a scarcity of information concerning knowledge of aflatoxin contamination of feeds among farmers even in aflatoxin-prone regions in Kenya. Thus, knowledge of aflatoxins in feeds among poultry farmers is of paramount importance in designing plans to minimize risks of aflatoxin exposure. Therefore, this study sought to assess the Determinants of Knowledge on Aflatoxin Among Broiler farmers in Nairobi City County, Kenya. Methodology: The study utilized an analytical cross-sectional study design. A total of 240 farmers were sampled from a population of 600 farmers within Nairobi City County. A structured questionnaire was administered to farmers within Nairobi City County. SPSS version 26 was used to analyze the data descriptively. Results were presented in tables and figures. Ethical approval was sought from relevant authorities and parties before the commencement of the study. Results: Results from the study show that the majority of the farmers (58.2%) had knowledge of aflatoxin. There was a significant association (p<0.05) between the socio-demographic characteristics of farmers and knowledge of aflatoxin. Conclusion: The study concludes that the farmers had adequate knowledge of aflatoxin occurrence in feeds and methods to reduce the contamination. There is a need for continuous sensitization of farmers on aflatoxin, particularly on feed management practices by the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Health Division of Public Health in Kenya
Diarrhea Risk Factors Associated with Water, Sanitation and Hygiene among the Under Five in Kasarani, Nairobi County
(science publishing group, 2019) Kimani, Humphrey Mbuti; Akunga, Daniel Nyagetiria; Anyango, Stephen Obiero; Ndwiga, Taratisio
Provision of quality water continues to be a challenge in the developing Counties particularly in the informal settlements and Kenya is not an exception. This study assessed diarrhea disease attributable to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) among the under five in Kasarani, Nairobi County. The main objective of this study was to establish the association between diarrhea among the under five and Water, Sanitation and hygiene. To achieve this goal Kasarani was categorized into four study environs namely low density high income, Medium density middle income, high density low income and informal settlement low income. Structured questionnaire and hygiene checklist were used as data collection instruments. Association and significant differences between variables were determined using inferential statistics and Chi-square tests. To compare quantitative variables (ANOVA) test was preferred. This study determined that water consumed in Kasarani was a risk for childhood diarrhea (p=0.019). Tap water showed a significantly higher contamination 13.7% than household water container 7.2% for T. Coli Bacteria. The amount of water a household consumed per day was an important risk factor for childhood diarrhea (P=0.001). Overall, Age of a child (P=0.046), water treatment method (P=0.002), method of storage of solid waste P<0.001, quantity and frequencies of water supply (P<0.001) were also found to be the most important risk factors for childhood diarrhea. The study concluded that there was a relationship between childhood diarrhea and water, sanitation and hygiene in Kasarani. The study recommended that Nairobi water and Sewerage Company institute programs that will facilitate adequate and wholesome water supply to HDLI and ISLI residential environs respectively.
Effect of Post-Discharge Postnatal Educational Intervention on Maternal Self-Efficacy among Low-Income Primiparas Living in Informal Settlements in Nairobi County, Kenya
(IJCMPH, 2024-03) Kamau, Immaculate Wambui; Keraka, Margaret Nyanchoka; Gitonga, Eliphas
Background: Maternal knowledge and maternal self-efficacy (MSE) are crucial for the adoption of health-promoting evidence-based postnatal practices. Short hospital stay after normal deliveries curtails delivery of pre-discharge postnatal education thus inadequate knowledge and poor MSE. This is accentuated among low-income primiparas thus a need for post-discharge follow-up. Aim was to determine the effect of self-efficacy theory-based post-discharge postnatal education on low-income primiparas’ MSE. Methods: A Quasi-experimental study on low-income primiparas residing in selected slums in Nairobi, Kenya. The control and experimental sites had 118 primiparas each conveniently recruited on early discharge after normal delivery from health facilities serving the slums. An interviewer-administered entry questionnaire was applied to collect facility and demographic data. The intervention group received post-discharge PNE intervention and routine PNC while the control group received routine PNC only. Perceived maternal parental self-efficacy scale was used to measure MSE at 6 weeks. Focus group discussions were conducted for qualitative data. IBM SPSS was used to analyze data. Independent sample t-tests and multiple linear regression were derived. Results: There was a significant (t=12.322, p=0.000) difference in MSE between experimental and control groups. The intervention was a significant predictor of MSE (β=0.59, p=0.00). Respondents appreciated the multi-pronged learning methods, especially the community health volunteers. COVID-19 pandemic challenges such as loss of livelihood and disruption of social connectedness were highlighted. Conclusions: Self-efficacy theory-based follow-up PNE intervention improves MSE among low-income primiparas thus a valuable complement to routine care.
Environmental Factors Predisposing Rural Community Members to Tungiasis in Murang’a East Sub County, Murang’a County
(International Peer Revied Journal and Book Publishers, 2018) Wambani, Zablon; Nyamari, Jackim; Kimani, Harun
Purpose: To determine environmental factors predisposing rural community members to tungiasis in Murang’a East Sub County, Murang’a County. Materials and Methods: The study utilized cross sectional descriptive study design. The research adopted systematic random sampling design to identify the households to be studied where a total of 334 households were selected to participate in the study as determined by Fisher et al 1998 formula. The study was carried out in Murang’a East Sub county where household heads or their representatives were interviewed using interview schedule and observation checklist gathered data on environmental factors related to tungiasis. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the collected data. Results: The study found out that Majority of those who had tungiasis were living in temporary houses which had earthen floors. Majority (21%) of the respondents were aged between 20 to 29 years followed by those aged between 30 to 39 years that accounted for 19.2%. Majority (71.3%) of respondents were females while 28.7% were males. 39.5% of them were living in semi-permanent houses, 37.1% were living in temporary houses while 23.4% were living in permanent houses. However, for those who were jigger infested, 83.3% were living in temporary houses and 16.7% were living in semi-permanent houses. 88.6% of households had domestic animals (chicken) out of which 57.7% reported that the chicken slept next to the living house while 36.6% reported that their chicken slept away from the living house. 68.9% of the households’ surrounding was clean. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommends that the county government of Murang’a should consider subsidizing house improvement particularly for those households that experience persistent tungiasis cases
Factors Associated with Health Seeking Behaviour for Reproductive Tract Infections among Young Street Females in Eldoret, Kenya
(Kabarak Journal of Research & Innovation, 2021) Chepchirchir, V MARITIM; WANYORO, Anthony; NYAMARI, Jackim; MAINGI, John; ABALLA, Lillian; KIMANI, Eunice
Reproductive tract infections (RTIs), among young women is a public health concern, especially in developing countries like Kenya. When a reproductive tract infection occurs, urgent treatment should be done to avoid short- and long-term consequences. However, few studies have evaluated factors associated with RTIs and healthcare seeking behaviors especially, among young street women in low and middle-income countries. This study aimed at determining the factors associated with healthcare seeking behavior for RTI infections among young street females in Eldoret town in Kenya. Descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. The study participants were young street females aged between 10-24 years. The independent variables were age, education, occupation, marital status, and healthcare associated factors such as distance to the facility, and health care perspectives on reproductive health were assessed. Informed consent was obtained from participants while assent was obtained from guardians for minors and persons in charge of street families. A total of 77 young street females were enrolled. Those aged ≤15 years were 10 (13%) while those aged ≥ 20 years were 48 (62.3%). The study established that participants aged between 16 to 19 years were less likely to report having had an RTI compared to those aged between 20 to 24 years (95% CI; 0.216 (0.070-0.671), p=0.006). Majority had heard of RTI (62, 80.5%). Out of the fifty respondents (65%) who reported having ever experienced RTI in their lifetime, 36 (72%) sought treatment for the illness with 46 respondents (94%) seeking treatment after two days post-onset of symptoms. Additionally, the main first points of seeking treatment were pharmacies (21, 43%) and health facilities (25, 51%). The study findings show there’s a high burden of RTIs among young street females in Eldoret.
Individual Risk Factors for Exposure to Pesticide among Small Scale Coffee Farm Workers in Kirinyaga County, Kenya
(2024-01) Mutegi, Winjoy Kageni,; Nyamari, Jackim M.; Gitonga, Eliphas
According to the population census of 2019, about 70% of the Kenyan population is rural. Most of whom depend heavily on rainfed agriculture under unstable climate conditions. This is also the case in Kirinyaga County where majority of the coffee farmers are small scale farmers who rely on the crop for income generation activities that require the use of pesticides to increase yields. The overdependence on pesticides has resulted in overuse and exposures of pesticides and uninformed mixing of pesticides in an effort to manage the low labor costs and meeting output needs and requirements at end of the harvest which has resulted consequently in poor health of farm workers. The main objective of this study was to establish the incidence of occupational acute pesticide toxicities among small scale coffee farm workers in Kirinyaga, determine the levels of perception and behavior of smallscale farmers regarding occupational usage of pesticide and determine the factors associated with occupational acute pesticide toxicities in relation to small scale coffee farm workers. The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional study design. The study sampled a population of 399 respondents who were randomly selected in the five wards in Kirinyaga central sub county namely Mutira North and South, Kanye-ine, Kirinyaga central and Inoi wards. An electronic based semi-structured questionnaire using KOBO Toolkit, observational checklists and plates were used in data collection. Data analysis was done using the statistical package for social sciences SPSS version 25.0. The relationship between independent and dependent variables was determined using chi-squared tests. Significant risk factors were analyzed using logistic regression and expressed as odds ratios. The study established that the incidence risk for acute pesticide poisoning symptoms was 52.3% with the most common symptoms being headaches (95.7%), diarrhea (98.8%), skin rashes (88%), staggering (81.9%) and dizziness (81.9%). The perception levels that were found significant in line with acute pesticide poisoning were those of effect to human health (p=0.031) and environment (p=0.027). Additionally, perceived failure to use safety equipment increased potential for Acute pesticide Poisoning(p=0.041)(OR= 2.199) .statistically significant individual risk factors identified were worker characteristics of drinking alcohol( OR= 0.033)and eating during pesticide application (OR= 0.537); socio-demographic characteristics of gender(OR=0.035), level of education (OR=0.024) and employment status(OR= 0.011); the safety practices of wearing PPEs(OR= 1.305), taking a systemic shower (OR= 0.537). A farm worker who washed hands was 2.042 times less likely to exhibit symptoms of APP. Hospital staff reported they had no means in terms of equipment and technical expertise to identify pesticide poisoning symptoms. Nevertheless, cases of Acute Pesticide Poisoning were hardly reported at health facilities among farmers because of the common nature of symptoms with other common illnesses. This study concluded that there is a high incidence risk among small-scale farmers for occupational APP. The varying individual risk factors and perceptions are indicative of the need for a multi- disciplined approach to training to help minimize adverse effects associated with pesticide exposure and to encourage approaches already in use that can minimize the harmful effects of pesticide use in coffee production.
Influence of Short Message Service Reminders on Utilisation of Focused Antenatal Care Among Women in Rural Kenya: A Randomised Controlled Trial
(AFRICAN Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health, 2020) Gitonga, Eliphas; Nyamari, Jackim; Warutere, Peterson; Wanyoro, Anthony
Background/Aims The short message service is a part of mobile health, which is defined as medical and public health practices that are supported by mobile devices, such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants, and other wireless devices. Mobile health has documented positive outcomes on other health services, including focused antenatal care. The focused antenatal care model emphasises quality of care rather than quantity of antenatal visits, and the World Health Organization recommends a minimum of four targeted antenatal visits. This study examines the influence of short message service reminders on utilisation of focused antenatal care in rural Kenya. Methods This was a randomised controlled trial with 118 respondents in each of two study arms, intervention and control, conducted in Tharaka Nithi, Kenya. The study group were pregnant women attending their first antenatal care visit in Tharaka subcounty health facilities. The intervention was three short message service reminders a week before the scheduled visit. Structured questionnaires were used to collect baseline and exit interviews. The chi-square test and logistic regression were used to check associations between uptake of antenatal care and participant characteristics at 5% significance level. Results Three quarters (75%) of the respondents in the intervention group completed the four targeted antenatal visits, whereas only 10% of respondents attended the required four visits in the control group. None of the sociodemographic variables were found to have any association or influence on focused antenatal care attendance. Short message reminders increased the chances of attending the recommended visits by 27 times (P<0.001). Conclusions Short message service reminders have a positive influence on utilisation of focused antenatal care. This research paper recommends that policymakers and health managers use short message service reminders to increase the uptake of focused antenatal care.
Levels of ionizing radiations in selected quarries in Nyamira County, Kenya
(Elsevier, 2020) Makori, Kerubo Ruth; Warutere, Peterson Njogu; Nyamari, Jackim; Arika, Wycliffe
It has been shown through a survey by World Health Organization and International Commission on Radiological Protection that certain materials (stones) sourced from quarries and used for the building are radioactive. In Kenya, underground stones which are sourced from embedded rocks are used in construction of most of the permanent buildings, yet Kenya has not adequately radio-profiled sources of building materials to determine whether the construction materials contain radionuclides that emit ionizing radiations yet are used for building. Consequently, Kenyans could be at risk of exposure to high levels of ionizing radiations by living in stone houses that are not radio-profiled. Health problems arise due to subjection to ionizing radiations. The study determined the levels of ionizing radiations in sampled quarries in Nyamira County by using Radiological survey dosimeters to show the radiation readings in milliRoentgen/hr then converted to milliSievert per year and the Global Positioning System device took note of the quarries' geographical positions. The study used Minitab version 17.0 software to establish the statistical differences of degree of exposure in sampled quarries. The sample size for the study was 40 quarries. It was revealed that Q-073 and Q-075 both had the lowest radiation readings of 0.64mSv while Q-079 had the highest reading of 3.46mSv equal to a deviation from WHO approved threshold of -35.71%,- 36.29% and 245.7%, respectively. The results indicated that 89% of the sampled quarries had radiation emissions above the ICRP and WHO standard. However, within Borabu Sub County, only 5 and within Manga Sub-County 4 of the sampled quarries had radiation readings below ICRP and WHO recommended standards of 1mSv/yr. It was exhibited from the study results that there are higher levels of ionizing radiations in quarries going past recommended standards per year hence causing health risk to quarry workers and general public. Therefore, these results could guide in formation of the national construction policies by including regular surveying for the levels of ionizing radiation in building materials as well as in practicing appropriate mitigation strategies.

Browse

Browsing RP-Department of Environmental Health by Title

Results Per Page

Sort Options