Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.18
Yang Wang, Jinming Dai, Yongtao Yan, Taoran Wang
This study aims to explore the association between a sedentary lifestyle and marital dissolution. The research sample was drawn from 7,940 individuals aged 20 and above who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2018. In this study, a logistic regression model was employed to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of the relationship between sedentary behavior and marital dissolution. After adjusting for all covariates, sedentary behavior of 600 minutes or more was significantly associated with marital dissolution, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.191 (95% CI: 1.026-1.381, P<0.05); sedentary behavior in men was not statistically significant (P>0.05); after adjusting for all covariates, sedentary behavior of 600 minutes or more in women was significantly associated with marital dissolution, OR=1.300 (95% CI: 1.067-1.583, P<0.01). The research findings suggest that prolonged sedentary behavior may be a potential risk factor for marital dissolution.
本研究旨在探讨久坐不动的生活方式与婚姻破裂之间的关系。研究样本来自2013年至2018年参加国家健康与营养检查调查(NHANES)的7940名20岁及以上的个人。本研究采用logistic回归模型估计久坐行为与婚姻破裂关系的比值比(OR)。在对所有协变量进行调整后,久坐600分钟及以上的行为与婚姻破裂显著相关,优势比(or)为1.191 (95% CI: 1.026-1.381, P0.05);在对所有协变量进行调整后,女性久坐600分钟及以上的行为与婚姻破裂显著相关,or =1.300 (95% CI: 1.067-1.583, P
{"title":"The relationship between sedentary lifestyle and marital stability among U.S. adults.","authors":"Yang Wang, Jinming Dai, Yongtao Yan, Taoran Wang","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.18","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.18","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study aims to explore the association between a sedentary lifestyle and marital dissolution. The research sample was drawn from 7,940 individuals aged 20 and above who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2018. In this study, a logistic regression model was employed to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of the relationship between sedentary behavior and marital dissolution. After adjusting for all covariates, sedentary behavior of 600 minutes or more was significantly associated with marital dissolution, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.191 (95% CI: 1.026-1.381, P<0.05); sedentary behavior in men was not statistically significant (P>0.05); after adjusting for all covariates, sedentary behavior of 600 minutes or more in women was significantly associated with marital dissolution, OR=1.300 (95% CI: 1.067-1.583, P<0.01). The research findings suggest that prolonged sedentary behavior may be a potential risk factor for marital dissolution.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"183-191"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145848758","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.16
Anas M Malami, Samkeliso G Shongwe, Okunlola Ma, Morhason-Bello Io
In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), adolecsent girls and young women (AGYW) encounter numerous obstacles related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), one of which is the unfulfilled need for contemporary contraception. Unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and high fertility rates are still common among this population group despite global efforts to increase access to family planning, which has a negative impact on the health of both mothers and children. Utilizing data from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) carried out in 26 countries throughout the region, this study analysed a weighted sample of 85,648 AGYWs aged 15-24 to investigate the determinants of unmet need for contraceptives among in SSA. The study utilized binary logistic regression to investigate determinants of unmet need. The pooled prevalence of unmet need for modern contraception was 27.0%. The results show that unmet need for contraception was significantly associated with several determinants. Being highly educated (AOR=1.69, 95% CI: 1.46-1.97, p<0.001), residing in one place for 15-19 years (AOR=1.59, 1.37-1.77, p<0.001) were associated with higher odds of unmet need for contraceptives. However, being aged 15-19 (AOR=0.89, 95% CI: 0.85-0.93, p<0.001), history of pregnancy termination (AOR=0.73, 95% CI: 0.68-0.80, p<0.001), using calendar-based contraceptives (AOR=0.16, 95% CI: 0.15-0.17, p<0.001) living in rural (AOR=0.80, 95% CI: 0.76-0.85, p<0.001) were associate will lower odds of unmet need for contraceptives. In conclusion, this study provides critical insights into the determinants of unmet contraceptive needs among AGYW in SSA, highlighting the influence of education, residential stability, age, reproductive history, contraceptive method choice, and geographic location.
在撒哈拉以南非洲,少女和青年妇女遇到许多与性健康和生殖健康及权利有关的障碍,其中之一是对当代避孕的需求未得到满足。尽管全球努力增加获得计划生育的机会,但意外怀孕、不安全堕胎和高生育率在这一人口群体中仍然普遍存在,这对母亲和儿童的健康都产生了负面影响。利用在整个区域26个国家进行的最新人口与健康调查(DHS)的数据,本研究分析了85,648名15-24岁的老年妇女的加权样本,以调查SSA中未满足避孕药具需求的决定因素。该研究利用二元逻辑回归来调查未满足需求的决定因素。未满足现代避孕需求的总患病率为27.0%。结果表明,未满足的避孕需求与几个决定因素显著相关。受过高等教育(AOR=1.69, 95% CI: 1.46-1.97, p
{"title":"Unmet need for modern contraception among adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan African Countries.","authors":"Anas M Malami, Samkeliso G Shongwe, Okunlola Ma, Morhason-Bello Io","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.16","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.16","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), adolecsent girls and young women (AGYW) encounter numerous obstacles related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), one of which is the unfulfilled need for contemporary contraception. Unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and high fertility rates are still common among this population group despite global efforts to increase access to family planning, which has a negative impact on the health of both mothers and children. Utilizing data from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) carried out in 26 countries throughout the region, this study analysed a weighted sample of 85,648 AGYWs aged 15-24 to investigate the determinants of unmet need for contraceptives among in SSA. The study utilized binary logistic regression to investigate determinants of unmet need. The pooled prevalence of unmet need for modern contraception was 27.0%. The results show that unmet need for contraception was significantly associated with several determinants. Being highly educated (AOR=1.69, 95% CI: 1.46-1.97, p<0.001), residing in one place for 15-19 years (AOR=1.59, 1.37-1.77, p<0.001) were associated with higher odds of unmet need for contraceptives. However, being aged 15-19 (AOR=0.89, 95% CI: 0.85-0.93, p<0.001), history of pregnancy termination (AOR=0.73, 95% CI: 0.68-0.80, p<0.001), using calendar-based contraceptives (AOR=0.16, 95% CI: 0.15-0.17, p<0.001) living in rural (AOR=0.80, 95% CI: 0.76-0.85, p<0.001) were associate will lower odds of unmet need for contraceptives. In conclusion, this study provides critical insights into the determinants of unmet contraceptive needs among AGYW in SSA, highlighting the influence of education, residential stability, age, reproductive history, contraceptive method choice, and geographic location.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"159-173"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145848812","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.15
Hülya Elmalı Şimşek
Women can experience varying degrees of pain associated with menstruation during each cycle. They use both non-pharmacological and pharmacological methods to reduce menstrual pain. One of the non-pharmacological methods for reducing pain is the acupuncture-based Su Jok therapy. This study aims to determine the effect of Su Jok application in reducing menstrual pain The study was conducted as a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with nursing students. In the study, pain levels in both groups decreased significantly after the intervention. There was no significant difference between the groups' mean pain scores.. When the change from the first to the last measurements was examined, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups, although the reduction in the experimental group was greater than in the control group. As a result of the study, both correct point and sham-point applications reduced pain.
{"title":"The effect of Su Jok therapy on dysmenorrhea: A randomized placebo controlled study.","authors":"Hülya Elmalı Şimşek","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.15","DOIUrl":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.15","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Women can experience varying degrees of pain associated with menstruation during each cycle. They use both non-pharmacological and pharmacological methods to reduce menstrual pain. One of the non-pharmacological methods for reducing pain is the acupuncture-based Su Jok therapy. This study aims to determine the effect of Su Jok application in reducing menstrual pain The study was conducted as a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with nursing students. In the study, pain levels in both groups decreased significantly after the intervention. There was no significant difference between the groups' mean pain scores.. When the change from the first to the last measurements was examined, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups, although the reduction in the experimental group was greater than in the control group. As a result of the study, both correct point and sham-point applications reduced pain.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"148-158"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145848818","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.14
Xuan Lu, Yan Mao
This study analysed the relationship between rural sanitation and survival rates of children less than five years in China. The data from the World Bank for the period 2000 to 2020 were obtained via the World Development Indicators (WDI). The central theme was to determine the correlation between access to basic rural sanitation and two essential child survival indicators: stunting heights and under-five mortality. The study used graphical trend analysis and statistical correlation to determine trends and correlations across time. Findings showed a high negative correlation between under-five mortality, and rural sanitation and between stunting and rural sanitation. The results indicate that with improved access to sanitation, there is reduced stunted growth and mortality among the children. Reduction in stunting growth was attributed to limited exposure to sanitation-related diseases such as diarrhoea, the common culprits of malnutrition and mortality among under five children. We conclude that increased access to rural sanitation is associated with increased child survival and should receive priority in health and development policy. Integration of sanitation efforts into maternal and child health programs and further investments in rural sanitation infrastructure can also improve health outcomes and support the attainment of global development targets.
{"title":"Association between rural sanitation and under five survival in China: Evidence from World Bank development indicators.","authors":"Xuan Lu, Yan Mao","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.14","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.14","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study analysed the relationship between rural sanitation and survival rates of children less than five years in China. The data from the World Bank for the period 2000 to 2020 were obtained via the World Development Indicators (WDI). The central theme was to determine the correlation between access to basic rural sanitation and two essential child survival indicators: stunting heights and under-five mortality. The study used graphical trend analysis and statistical correlation to determine trends and correlations across time. Findings showed a high negative correlation between under-five mortality, and rural sanitation and between stunting and rural sanitation. The results indicate that with improved access to sanitation, there is reduced stunted growth and mortality among the children. Reduction in stunting growth was attributed to limited exposure to sanitation-related diseases such as diarrhoea, the common culprits of malnutrition and mortality among under five children. We conclude that increased access to rural sanitation is associated with increased child survival and should receive priority in health and development policy. Integration of sanitation efforts into maternal and child health programs and further investments in rural sanitation infrastructure can also improve health outcomes and support the attainment of global development targets.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"139-147"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145848795","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.11
Longfang Wu
Intravenous access is a critical component of clinical care for neonates. Given neonates' underdeveloped vascular systems, fragile skin barrier, and immature immune responses, they experience substantially higher rates of catheter-related complications (including infections and bleeding) compared to adult populations. This research introduces an innovative Full-Cycle Indwelling Needle Management (FCINM), establishing a tripartite framework of "Evaluation-Implementation-Surveillance". By combining advanced dressing techniques and proactive maintenance protocols, this approach significantly enhances first-attempt success rates (92.0% vs. 74.0%, p=0.017) while reducing catheterization time. Post-implementation results showed reductions in complication rates, along with improvements in care adherence. Compared with the standard care group, the observation group showed no significant difference in puncture site infection rates, the observation group demonstrated significantly lower infection rates through antimicrobial-impregnated dressings and proactive maintenance approaches. In conclusion, FCINM enhances the accuracy and safety of neonatal intravenous therapy by integrating technological advancements and procedural refinements.
静脉注射是新生儿临床护理的重要组成部分。鉴于新生儿血管系统发育不全,皮肤屏障脆弱,免疫反应不成熟,与成年人相比,他们经历导管相关并发症(包括感染和出血)的发生率要高得多。本研究引入了一种创新的全周期留置针管理(FCINM),建立了“评估-实施-监测”的三方框架。通过结合先进的敷料技术和主动维护方案,该方法显著提高了首次尝试的成功率(92.0% vs. 74.0%, p=0.017),同时缩短了置管时间。实施后的结果显示并发症发生率降低,护理依从性提高。与标准护理组比较,观察组穿刺部位感染率无显著差异,观察组通过抗菌浸渍敷料及积极主动的维持方式,穿刺部位感染率明显降低。总之,FCINM通过整合技术进步和程序改进,提高了新生儿静脉注射治疗的准确性和安全性。
{"title":"Effectiveness of full-cycle indwelling needle management in neonates and its protective role against post-bath puncture site infections and bleeding.","authors":"Longfang Wu","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.11","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.11","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Intravenous access is a critical component of clinical care for neonates. Given neonates' underdeveloped vascular systems, fragile skin barrier, and immature immune responses, they experience substantially higher rates of catheter-related complications (including infections and bleeding) compared to adult populations. This research introduces an innovative Full-Cycle Indwelling Needle Management (FCINM), establishing a tripartite framework of \"Evaluation-Implementation-Surveillance\". By combining advanced dressing techniques and proactive maintenance protocols, this approach significantly enhances first-attempt success rates (92.0% vs. 74.0%, p=0.017) while reducing catheterization time. Post-implementation results showed reductions in complication rates, along with improvements in care adherence. Compared with the standard care group, the observation group showed no significant difference in puncture site infection rates, the observation group demonstrated significantly lower infection rates through antimicrobial-impregnated dressings and proactive maintenance approaches. In conclusion, FCINM enhances the accuracy and safety of neonatal intravenous therapy by integrating technological advancements and procedural refinements.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"115-121"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145848798","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.5
Guiqing Qu, Haitao Zhang
The study employed a comprehensive graphical presentation and statistical analysis using data from 2017 to 2023 to assess how different dimensions of foreign aid impact the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in South Africa. The finding suggests that as the proportion of foreign aid increases, HIV/AIDs prevalence tends to decrease. Consequently, result of funding for treatment has correlation (r = -0.657). This moderate negative association reinforces the traditional belief that investments in direct treatment are effective in reducing disease prevalence. The relationship between funding allocated to education reveals a notable positive correlation (r = 0.33) with HIV prevalence. Against this backdrop, the policymakers in South Africa should prioritize allocating resources to quality programs that have robust passthrough effects on HIV/AIDs reduction in the country. Also, given the current termination of about 40 USAID funded projects in South Africa, if the policymakers in South Africa desire to prevent further escalation of HIV prevalence in the country, they should explore substantive internal sources of fundings.
{"title":"Combating HIV/AIDS prevalence in South Africa: Does foreign aid play a significant role?","authors":"Guiqing Qu, Haitao Zhang","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.5","DOIUrl":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The study employed a comprehensive graphical presentation and statistical analysis using data from 2017 to 2023 to assess how different dimensions of foreign aid impact the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in South Africa. The finding suggests that as the proportion of foreign aid increases, HIV/AIDs prevalence tends to decrease. Consequently, result of funding for treatment has correlation (r = -0.657). This moderate negative association reinforces the traditional belief that investments in direct treatment are effective in reducing disease prevalence. The relationship between funding allocated to education reveals a notable positive correlation (r = 0.33) with HIV prevalence. Against this backdrop, the policymakers in South Africa should prioritize allocating resources to quality programs that have robust passthrough effects on HIV/AIDs reduction in the country. Also, given the current termination of about 40 USAID funded projects in South Africa, if the policymakers in South Africa desire to prevent further escalation of HIV prevalence in the country, they should explore substantive internal sources of fundings.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"42-50"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145846415","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.2
Muserref B Yilmaz, Ali Aras, Reyyan G Iscan, Zeynep Celik, Halime H Pence, Ayse N Aksoy
This prospective cross-sectional comparative study aimed to elucidate the effects of insulin resistance and the role of osteocalcin protein in male infertility. A cohort of 171 infertile men aged 25-55 was examined at an assisted reproduction clinic. Hormone profiles, glucose/insulin levels, osteocalcin concentrations, lipid profiles, and semen parameters were assessed. Using the HOMA index, patients were classified as insulin-resistant (n=87) or insulin-sensitive (n=84). Insulin-resistant patients had significantly lower total testosterone (p<0.001), free androgen index (p<0.001), and carboxylated osteocalcin levels (p=0.039) compared to insulin-sensitive patients. Linear regression analysis revealed a negative correlation between HOMA-IR and both total testosterone levels (p=0.022) and sperm motility (p=0.037). No association was found between HOMA-IR and osteocalcin levels (p=0.417). These findings suggest that insulin resistance negatively impacts male reproductive function, particularly testosterone levels and sperm motility. Larger studies are needed to confirm the role of osteocalcin in male infertility and its potential as a therapeutic target.
{"title":"Impact of insulin resistance on sperm parameters and serum osteocalcin levels: A prospective cross-sectional comparative study.","authors":"Muserref B Yilmaz, Ali Aras, Reyyan G Iscan, Zeynep Celik, Halime H Pence, Ayse N Aksoy","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.2","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This prospective cross-sectional comparative study aimed to elucidate the effects of insulin resistance and the role of osteocalcin protein in male infertility. A cohort of 171 infertile men aged 25-55 was examined at an assisted reproduction clinic. Hormone profiles, glucose/insulin levels, osteocalcin concentrations, lipid profiles, and semen parameters were assessed. Using the HOMA index, patients were classified as insulin-resistant (n=87) or insulin-sensitive (n=84). Insulin-resistant patients had significantly lower total testosterone (p<0.001), free androgen index (p<0.001), and carboxylated osteocalcin levels (p=0.039) compared to insulin-sensitive patients. Linear regression analysis revealed a negative correlation between HOMA-IR and both total testosterone levels (p=0.022) and sperm motility (p=0.037). No association was found between HOMA-IR and osteocalcin levels (p=0.417). These findings suggest that insulin resistance negatively impacts male reproductive function, particularly testosterone levels and sperm motility. Larger studies are needed to confirm the role of osteocalcin in male infertility and its potential as a therapeutic target.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"18-24"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145802993","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.4
Avela S Sibulawa, Debbie Sk Habedi
Antiretroviral treatment (ART) plays a significant role in the wellbeing of individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Adherence to ART is vital for patients since it helps to prevent the virus from multiplying and spreading through the body. This study explored challenges that hinder patients' adherence to ART at a mobile clinic of KwaZulu-Natal municipality, South Africa. A qualitative research approach was utilised, using an exploratory and descriptive design. Purposive sampling was used to select five participants aged 18 years and older, receiving treatment at a mobile clinic. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews from patients who defaulted ART treatment and analysed thematically. The findings revealed barriers to adherence as socioeconomic factors, stigma, and discrimination. Addressing ART non-adherence requires a multifaceted approach involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and community support structures. Recommendations include improving patient education on treatment adherence, ensuring consistent availability of medication at mobile clinics, and implementing patient-centered care strategies to enhance healthcare provider-patient relationships. Strengthening support systems within families and communities can also play a critical role in reducing stigma and encouraging adherence. Future research should explore adherence challenges in diverse settings, including urban areas, to develop broader interventions.
{"title":"Barriers experienced by patients in adhering to antiretroviral treatment in a mobile clinic in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.","authors":"Avela S Sibulawa, Debbie Sk Habedi","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.4","DOIUrl":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.4","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Antiretroviral treatment (ART) plays a significant role in the wellbeing of individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Adherence to ART is vital for patients since it helps to prevent the virus from multiplying and spreading through the body. This study explored challenges that hinder patients' adherence to ART at a mobile clinic of KwaZulu-Natal municipality, South Africa. A qualitative research approach was utilised, using an exploratory and descriptive design. Purposive sampling was used to select five participants aged 18 years and older, receiving treatment at a mobile clinic. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews from patients who defaulted ART treatment and analysed thematically. The findings revealed barriers to adherence as socioeconomic factors, stigma, and discrimination. Addressing ART non-adherence requires a multifaceted approach involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and community support structures. Recommendations include improving patient education on treatment adherence, ensuring consistent availability of medication at mobile clinics, and implementing patient-centered care strategies to enhance healthcare provider-patient relationships. Strengthening support systems within families and communities can also play a critical role in reducing stigma and encouraging adherence. Future research should explore adherence challenges in diverse settings, including urban areas, to develop broader interventions.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"33-41"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145846278","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.17
Sule C Unal, Mukaddes D Acar
This study aimed to investigate the level of inpatient health care satisfaction and healthy life education consciousness of parents.The study employed a descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional study design. This study consisted of 211 parents whose children were monitored as inpatients in the pediatric clinic of the State Hospital. The data were collected with the Parent and Child Descriptive Information Form, PedsQL Healthcare Satisfaction Scale (PHSS), and Healthy Life Education Conscious Level Scale in Parents (HLECLSP). The average HLECLSP score of the parents in the study was 125.65±19.65, and the PHSS average score was 69.80±20.25, which was at a moderate level. It was determined that the mean scores of PHSS varied according to the status of the following current developments related to the health and hospitalization process, and these differences were statistically significant. It was determined that the mean scores of HLECLSP differed according to family type, education level, working status, parents' job, and parents' status of following current developments, and these differences were statistically significant. Parents' satisfaction with health care was determined to increase in parallel with their perception of healthy life education consciousness. It is especially recommended that health care environments be improved in terms of parents' emotional support needs, and updated healthy life awareness training programs for parents be included.
{"title":"In-patient health care satisfaction and healthy life education consciousness of parents: A cross-sectional study.","authors":"Sule C Unal, Mukaddes D Acar","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.17","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.17","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study aimed to investigate the level of inpatient health care satisfaction and healthy life education consciousness of parents.The study employed a descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional study design. This study consisted of 211 parents whose children were monitored as inpatients in the pediatric clinic of the State Hospital. The data were collected with the Parent and Child Descriptive Information Form, PedsQL Healthcare Satisfaction Scale (PHSS), and Healthy Life Education Conscious Level Scale in Parents (HLECLSP). The average HLECLSP score of the parents in the study was 125.65±19.65, and the PHSS average score was 69.80±20.25, which was at a moderate level. It was determined that the mean scores of PHSS varied according to the status of the following current developments related to the health and hospitalization process, and these differences were statistically significant. It was determined that the mean scores of HLECLSP differed according to family type, education level, working status, parents' job, and parents' status of following current developments, and these differences were statistically significant. Parents' satisfaction with health care was determined to increase in parallel with their perception of healthy life education consciousness. It is especially recommended that health care environments be improved in terms of parents' emotional support needs, and updated healthy life awareness training programs for parents be included.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"174-182"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145848735","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-23DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.6
Een Kurnaesih, Siti Sunya Kumala, Siti Zaenab Nurul Haq, Yunita Amraeni, Adelia Suryani, Agung Raharjo
Family planning is essential for fertility management in Indonesia, where population increase is still a multifaceted problem. Using data from 2017 Indonesian Health Survey (IDHS), this study examines the perceptions that influence couples to choose sterilization contraception due to its low adoption rate and female domination. The design was cross-sectional with a sample of 8,344 couples of reproductive age. Analysis was conducted univariate, bivariate, and multivariate the using logistic regression. The results showed that only 3.8% of PUS used sterilization, with a significant gender disparity (female: 4.5%; male: 0.1%). The perception was found to be significantly associated (OR Model 3 = 2.14; 95% CI: 1.555-2.956). This study demonstrates how male participation in sterilization is hampered by social norms and traditional gender roles, including the belief that contraception is a woman's responsibility. Sterilization adoption rates could be balanced and increased male participation in family planning encouraged by promoting gender equality through education and focused campaigns.
{"title":"Perceptions influencing selection of sterilization contraceptive methods among couples of reproductive age in Indonesia: Analysis of the 2017 IDHS.","authors":"Een Kurnaesih, Siti Sunya Kumala, Siti Zaenab Nurul Haq, Yunita Amraeni, Adelia Suryani, Agung Raharjo","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.6","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2025/v29i12.6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Family planning is essential for fertility management in Indonesia, where population increase is still a multifaceted problem. Using data from 2017 Indonesian Health Survey (IDHS), this study examines the perceptions that influence couples to choose sterilization contraception due to its low adoption rate and female domination. The design was cross-sectional with a sample of 8,344 couples of reproductive age. Analysis was conducted univariate, bivariate, and multivariate the using logistic regression. The results showed that only 3.8% of PUS used sterilization, with a significant gender disparity (female: 4.5%; male: 0.1%). The perception was found to be significantly associated (OR Model 3 = 2.14; 95% CI: 1.555-2.956). This study demonstrates how male participation in sterilization is hampered by social norms and traditional gender roles, including the belief that contraception is a woman's responsibility. Sterilization adoption rates could be balanced and increased male participation in family planning encouraged by promoting gender equality through education and focused campaigns.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"29 12","pages":"51-65"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145848768","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}