African Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Methodological Assessment of District Hospital Systems in Tanzania
District hospitals in Tanzania are responsible for providing essential healthcare services to rural populations. However, their effectiveness in reducing health risks is uncertain. A DiD analysis was employed to compare pre- and post-intervention outcomes in districts with and without district hospitals, accounting for potential confounders such as baseline health status and socio-economic factors. The DiD analysis revealed a significant reduction of 20% in mortality rates (95% CI: -18.5%, -23.4%) post-intervention in districts with district hospitals compared to those without, indicating improved risk management strategies. This study underscores the importance of district hospital systems in enhancing health outcomes and underscores the need for sustained support and resource allocation. Further research should focus on longitudinal studies and explore additional interventions that complement district hospital services. District hospitals, DiD analysis, risk reduction, healthcare access, Tanzania Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Bayesian Hierarchical Model Evaluation for Public Health Surveillance Systems in Nigeria,
Public health surveillance systems are essential for monitoring disease trends and outbreak responses in Nigeria. Bayesian hierarchical models offer a flexible framework for evaluating these systems. A Bayesian hierarchical model will be applied to assess the effectiveness and accuracy of surveillance systems. Model parameters will account for spatial and temporal variations. The model suggests an improvement in yield by 35% compared to existing surveillance methods, indicating a significant enhancement in data quality and reliability. The Bayesian hierarchical model demonstrates its utility in enhancing public health surveillance systems in Nigeria. Implement the recommended improvements for further validation of the model’s effectiveness in other disease areas. Bayesian Hierarchical Model, Public Health Surveillance, Nigeria, Measles, Yield Improvement Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
User Satisfaction with Mobile Health Clinics in Remote Northern Tigray, Ethiopia
Mobile health clinics (MHCs) have been established in remote areas of northern Tigray, Ethiopia to improve access to primary care services. A longitudinal survey was conducted among users who accessed MHCs within a specific region in northern Tigray, employing quantitative methods for data collection and analysis. Among the surveyed group, 78% reported increased satisfaction with MHC services over four years, particularly noting improvements in accessibility and healthcare quality. User satisfaction with MHCs remains high despite potential challenges such as limited resources and infrastructure limitations. Further efforts should be made to enhance service delivery by addressing identified issues and improving user engagement strategies. mobile health clinics, primary care access, user satisfaction, remote healthcare, longitudinal survey Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile health clinics have been established in remote areas of Northern Tigray, Ethiopia, to provide accessible primary care services. A mixed-methods approach including user surveys was employed to gather data from patients who used the mobile clinics. User satisfaction scores averaged at 85% across all clinic visits, with notable improvements in patient-reported health outcomes over time (p < 0.05, CI [72%, 96%]). Mobile health clinics have significantly enhanced healthcare access and user satisfaction in remote northern Tigray, Ethiopia. Continued investment in mobile clinic infrastructure and ongoing user feedback mechanisms are recommended to sustain these services. User Satisfaction, Mobile Health Clinics, Remote Healthcare Access, Northern Tigray, Ethiopia Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Bayesian Hierarchical Model for Evaluating Clinical Outcomes in Maternal Care Facilities in Senegal
Maternal care in Senegal's facilities is crucial for newborn health outcomes. Current evaluation methods are limited and may not capture all system inefficiencies. A Bayesian hierarchical model was developed using data from multiple Senegalese facilities. This approach accounts for variability between facilities and within individual cases. The model demonstrated significant variation in clinical outcomes across different care settings, with a notable proportion (35%) of instances showing critical health risks not captured by current methods. This study validates the utility of Bayesian hierarchical models in evaluating maternal care systems, offering insights for improving Senegalese healthcare delivery. Healthcare policymakers should consider adopting this methodological approach to better assess and improve maternal care outcomes across Senegal’s facilities. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Ethiopia Using Panel Data for Efficiency Gains Analysis
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Ethiopia: panel-data estimation for measuring efficiency gains in Ethiopia. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey and interview data collected over the study period. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Ethiopia: panel-data estimation for measuring efficiency gains, Ethiopia, Africa, Medicine, intervention study This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centre Systems in Kenya Using Difference-in-Differences Models to Measure Risk Reduction
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of community health centres systems in Kenya: difference-in-differences model for measuring risk reduction in Kenya. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey and interview data collected over the study period. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of community health centres systems in Kenya: difference-in-differences model for measuring risk reduction, Kenya, Africa, Medicine, intervention study This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Kenya Using Multilevel Regression Analysis
Public health surveillance systems in Kenya are crucial for monitoring diseases and implementing timely interventions. However, their effectiveness varies significantly across different regions. A meta-analysis approach will be employed to assess data quality and model performance. Multilevel regression models will account for hierarchical structures within regions and districts. The analyses reveal a significant positive effect of standardised reporting systems on surveillance accuracy (β = 0.85, p < 0.01), with an estimated mean improvement in yield by 23% across all regions. Multilevel regression analysis provides robust insights into the effectiveness and areas for enhancement in public health surveillance systems in Kenya. Adoption of standardised reporting protocols is recommended to ensure consistent data quality and improved surveillance outcomes. Public Health Surveillance, Multilevel Regression Analysis, Yield Improvement, Kenya Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Blockchain in Secure Healthcare Records Among Urban Senegalese Youth
Blockchain technology is emerging as a potential solution for secure healthcare record management in various settings. A comprehensive review and synthesis of existing studies addressing the use of blockchain technology for secure healthcare records management in Egypt. Blockchain implementation was found to enhance record security with an average increase of 25% in data integrity compared to traditional methods. The meta-analysis supports the integration of blockchain technology into urban Senegalese youth healthcare systems to improve data security and privacy. Healthcare providers should consider implementing blockchain for secure healthcare record management, with further research needed to validate these findings in diverse settings. Blockchain, Secure Healthcare Records, Urban Youth, Meta-Analysis Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Time-Series Forecasting Model for Measuring Adoption Rates in Nigerian Community Health Centres Systems,Period
Community health centres in Nigeria have faced challenges in adopting new technologies to improve service delivery. A time-series forecasting model was employed using historical data from Nigerian community health centres. The model incorporates ARIMA (AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average), with uncertainty quantified through robust standard errors. The forecasted adoption rate showed a steady increase in the use of telemedicine by community health centres over the period, with an estimated growth of 15% annually based on the ARIMA model. The time-series forecasting model accurately predicted the adoption rates and highlighted the potential for increased integration of technology in Nigerian health systems. Investment in telemedicine infrastructure should be prioritised to support further adoption by community health centres, alongside continuous training programmes. Community Health Centres, Telemedicine Adoption, Time-Series Forecasting, ARIMA Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centres Systems in Rwanda Using Difference-in-Differences Models
Community health centres in Rwanda have been established to improve healthcare access and quality. A systematic literature review will be conducted, employing difference-in-differences (DID) models to analyse the impact of community health centre interventions on healthcare outcomes. The DID model showed a statistically significant increase in vaccination coverage by 15% with robust standard errors indicating reliable estimates. The use of DID models has provided evidence for yield improvements, demonstrating a clear effect of community health centres on public health metrics. Further research should explore the scalability and sustainability of these interventions across diverse regions in Rwanda. Community Health Centres, Difference-in-Differences, Yield Improvement, Rwanda Healthcare Systems Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centre Systems in Tanzania Using Quasi-Experimental Design for Cost-Effectiveness Assessment,
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of community health centres systems in Tanzania: quasi-experimental design for measuring cost-effectiveness in Tanzania. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey and interview data collected over the study period. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of community health centres systems in Tanzania: quasi-experimental design for measuring cost-effectiveness, Tanzania, Africa, Medicine, longitudinal study This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Mobile Telemedicine in Rural Senegalese Primary Care
Mobile telemedicine has shown promise in improving access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved rural areas where traditional medical facilities are scarce. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative surveys to assess patient satisfaction and cost savings, and qualitative interviews to gather insights on provider acceptance of the service. Data were collected from a sample population in Tunisia and analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Patient satisfaction rates reached 85% with mobile telemedicine services, indicating high user acceptance. Cost savings for patients were estimated at $10 per visit, reflecting a significant reduction in travel costs. Provider adoption metrics showed an 80% willingness to integrate the service into routine practice. Mobile telemedicine has demonstrated potential as a viable solution to improve access and reduce costs in rural Senegalese primary care settings. Further research should be conducted to explore long-term sustainability and scalability of mobile telemedicine services, with particular focus on cost-effectiveness over time. mobile telemedicine, rural healthcare, patient satisfaction, cost savings, adoption metrics Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Assessment of Community Health Centre Systems in Ethiopia Using Difference-in-Differences Models for Risk Reduction Evaluation
Community health centres in Ethiopia are pivotal for delivering healthcare services to underserved populations. The effectiveness of these systems can be assessed through rigorous methodological evaluations. This review article employs difference-in-differences (DiD) models to assess the effectiveness of these centres. DiD models are used to measure changes over time for control and treatment groups, with robust statistical methods applied to ensure validity. A notable finding is that community health centres have successfully reduced the incidence of infectious diseases by 15% in rural areas compared to pre-intervention levels (95% confidence interval), indicating significant public health impact. The DiD models confirm the efficacy of community health centre systems in targeted regions, with a substantial reduction in risk factors. Recommendations for further research include expanding coverage and integrating digital technologies. Expanding access to digital health platforms within existing centres could enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient follow-up. Future studies should also explore the long-term sustainability of these interventions. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Senegal
Public health surveillance systems in Senegal are crucial for monitoring infectious diseases such as malaria and cholera. However, there is a need to evaluate their effectiveness and improve their operational efficiency. A randomized controlled trial was conducted among two regions, A and B. Region A received standard surveillance practices, while region B underwent enhanced surveillance procedures including improved training for field workers and better infrastructure. Data on disease incidence rates were collected over a six-month period to evaluate system performance. Region B demonstrated an improvement in yield of approximately 20% in reporting accurate data compared to Region A, with a significant reduction in delays from the standard 15 days to an average of 7 days for submitting surveillance reports. The statistical model indicates that this difference can be attributed to enhanced training and infrastructure ($Y = β_0 + β_1X + ε$, where $ε$ represents uncertainty in data collection). The randomized field trial confirmed the need for targeted interventions to improve public health surveillance systems, particularly through better training and infrastructure support. Public health authorities should prioritise continuous improvement of surveillance systems by investing in staff development and upgrading physical facilities. This will ensure timely and accurate data submission for effective disease control measures.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Emergency Care Units in Nigeria Using Panel Data to Measure Clinical Outcomes
Emergency care units (ECUs) in Nigeria face challenges related to clinical outcomes due to methodological limitations and data quality. A systematic literature review will be conducted using predefined inclusion criteria. Studies will be assessed based on study design, data collection methods, and statistical analyses applied to measure clinical outcomes in Nigerian ECU settings. The analysis reveals a predominance of cross-sectional studies (75%) over longitudinal designs, which are crucial for understanding dynamic patient outcomes within ECUs. Panel-data estimation techniques offer enhanced precision in measuring clinical outcomes compared to traditional methods but require robust validation across diverse settings. Future research should prioritise the adoption of panel data methodologies and ensure consistent reporting standards to facilitate meaningful comparative analysis. Emergency Care Units, Clinical Outcomes, Panel Data Analysis, Nigeria, Systematic Literature Review Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Senegal Using Difference-in-Differences for Clinical Outcomes Assessment
The healthcare system in Senegal is fragmented across district hospitals, leading to disparities in clinical outcomes. A difference-in-differences (DiD) regression analysis was applied to compare pre- and post-intervention changes in patient outcomes between control and treatment districts. Data on clinical indicators were collected from district hospitals over a two-year period. There was an observed improvement of 15% in hospital readmission rates among treated districts compared to controls, with a robust standard error of ±3%. The DiD model effectively highlighted the impact of system interventions on clinical outcomes. Future research should validate these findings across larger samples and regions. Further studies are needed to explore additional factors influencing health outcomes in Senegalese district hospitals, such as socioeconomic status and infrastructure improvements. District Hospitals, Difference-in-Differences (DiD), Clinical Outcomes, Health System Improvement Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Ethiopia
Public health surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring disease outbreaks in resource-limited settings such as Ethiopia. However, their effectiveness and cost-effectiveness remain poorly understood. A randomized field trial was conducted to assess the performance metrics of existing surveillance systems. Data collection involved both quantitative and qualitative methods, including surveys and focus group discussions. During the trial, it was observed that public health workers in rural areas faced challenges with communication barriers and limited access to digital devices, which impacted data input accuracy. The evaluation highlighted significant interoperability issues between different surveillance systems used by local authorities. These findings suggest a need for standardised protocols and improved technology integration. Standardised training programmes should be developed for public health workers regarding the use of digital tools in surveillance processes, while also advocating for greater investment in infrastructure to enhance data collection and transmission efficiency. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Urban Primary Care Networks in Ethiopia Using Time-Series Forecasting for Clinical Outcome Measurement,
Urban primary care networks in Ethiopia aim to improve access to healthcare services for underserved populations. However, methodological challenges hinder effective evaluation of these systems. A retrospective analysis was conducted on electronic health records from to , employing Holt-Winters exponential smoothing for trend and seasonal decomposition of time series by loess (STL) method. Uncertainty in forecasts was quantified using standard errors. During the study period, there was a consistent decline in outpatient visits per month, suggesting potential underutilization of primary care services. The time-series forecasting models provided insights into the variability and trends in patient utilization within urban primary care networks. Further research should include qualitative assessments to understand barriers to service uptake and explore strategies for network improvement. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Adoption and Impact of School-Based Adolescent Reproductive Health Education Programmes in Urban South African Schools
Adolescent reproductive health education in urban South African schools is a critical area for public health intervention. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including pre- and post-programme surveys to measure knowledge changes (mean ± SD: 25% improvement) and qualitative interviews for behaviour analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from the local education authorities and institutional review boards. There was a significant increase in students' knowledge about reproductive health topics following the implementation of educational programmes, with a mean score improvement of 25%. Qualitative data indicated positive changes in student attitudes towards discussing sexual health openly. The adoption rates and impact analysis suggest that targeted interventions can effectively enhance adolescent reproductive health education outcomes in urban South African schools. Further research should explore the sustainability of these programmes over time, while ongoing support is crucial to maintain positive behaviour changes among students. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Time-Series Forecasting Models in Evaluating Community Health Centre Systems in South Africa
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of community health centres systems in South Africa: time-series forecasting model for measuring yield improvement in South Africa. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey and interview data collected over the study period. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of community health centres systems in South Africa: time-series forecasting model for measuring yield improvement, South Africa, Africa, Medicine, original research This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centre Systems in Kenya Using Difference-in-Differences Approach for Efficiency Assessment
Community health centers (CHCs) in Kenya play a crucial role in providing primary healthcare services to underserved populations. Recent studies have highlighted the need for rigorous methodological evaluations to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of these CHCs. The research employs a DiD approach, leveraging pre- and post-intervention data from CHCs across different regions. This method allows for the estimation of treatment effects by comparing changes within and between groups exposed to a policy intervention (CHC reforms) versus those not. Findings indicate that implementation of CHC reforms led to an average improvement in patient consultation rates of approximately 15% over two years, with significant variability across regions. The DiD model provided robust evidence supporting the effectiveness of CHC reforms in enhancing service delivery efficiency. These findings have implications for policy makers and healthcare managers aiming to improve access and quality of care in underserved areas. Based on these results, a recommendation is made for sustained monitoring and periodic evaluations of CHC systems to ensure continuous improvements in service delivery effectiveness. Community Health Centers, Efficiency Evaluation, Difference-in-Differences (DiD), Primary Healthcare Reform Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
A Systematic Review of Pre-dive Glycerol Hydration versus Oral Rehydration Salts for Commercial Divers in the Suez Canal
Commercial hard-hat divers in the Suez Canal work in a hot, hyperosmotic environment, which heightens the risk of dehydration. Dehydration can elevate plasma viscosity and post-dive venous gas emboli (VGE), thereby increasing the potential for decompression illness. Pre-dive hydration is a key countermeasure, with glycerol-based solutions and standard oral rehydration salts (ORS) representing two prevalent strategies. This systematic review compared the efficacy of pre-dive glycerol hydration versus standard ORS for commercial divers in the Suez Canal region. The specific objectives were to evaluate their impact on plasma viscosity and post-dive VGE bubble grade. A systematic search of peer-reviewed literature was performed across major biomedical databases. Included studies were primary research involving commercial hard-hat divers that directly compared glycerol to ORS and measured plasma viscosity and/or VGE. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted independently by two reviewers using standardised tools. From 127 identified records, only two small-scale field studies met the inclusion criteria. Both studies reported a reduction in plasma viscosity with glycerol compared to ORS. Glycerol hydration was also associated with a lower post-dive VGE bubble grade; one study documented a 40% reduction in high-grade VGE (Spencer Grade ≥ III) following glycerol administration. The limited available evidence suggests that pre-dive glycerol hydration may be more effective than standard ORS in reducing plasma viscosity and high-grade VGE in this specific diving cohort. However, the small number of studies and their methodological constraints prevent definitive conclusions. Further high-quality, controlled trials with larger sample sizes are urgently needed. Pending such evidence, dive operators may consider the potential benefits of glycerol but must prioritise adherence to established hydration protocols and vigilant monitoring for adverse effects. Diving medicine, hyperbaric medicine, dehydration, glycerol, oral rehydration salts, plasma viscosity, venous gas embolism, commercial diving, Suez Canal. This review synthesises the existing evidence on two pre-dive hydration strategies for a specialised occupational group, highlighting a significant evidence gap and guiding priorities for future research in African diving and hyperbaric medicine.
A Meta-Analysis of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Refractory Cyclist's Saddle Sores in Competitive Athletes at High-Altitude Training Camps in Iten, Kenya
Cyclist’s saddle sores are a common and problematic condition for competitive athletes, especially during intensive training. Healing may be impaired in high-altitude environments such as the training camps in Iten, Kenya. Refractory sores present a substantial challenge to athletic performance and training schedules. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used as an adjunct treatment for complex soft tissue wounds, but its role for this specific indication remains uncertain. This meta-analysis aimed to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of adjunctive HBOT for treating refractory cyclist’s saddle sores in competitive athletes training at high altitude. A systematic search of multiple electronic databases was performed for relevant studies. Included studies were randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, and case series investigating HBOT for refractory saddle sores in competitive cyclists. Risk of bias was assessed using standard tools. Data on healing rates, time to healing, and adverse events were extracted and synthesised using a random-effects model where appropriate. Three studies, involving 87 athletes, met the inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis showed a statistically significant improvement in complete healing rates with adjunctive HBOT compared to standard care alone. The relative risk for complete healing at four weeks was 1.82 (95% CI 1.30 to 2.55). No serious HBOT-related adverse events were reported. The limited available evidence suggests adjunctive HBOT may improve healing in competitive athletes with refractory saddle sores at high altitude. The therapy appears well-tolerated in this population. Further high-quality, prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings. Clinicians could consider HBOT for refractory cases unresponsive to standard management. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, saddle sores, cyclists, high altitude, meta-analysis, refractory wounds, sports medicine. This meta-analysis synthesises the current evidence on HBOT for a specific sporting injury in a unique environmental context, providing a foundation for future clinical research and practice considerations.
Saturation diving is a critical technique for deep offshore oilfield maintenance, yet it carries potential neurological risks. While international studies have reported cognitive deficits in divers, their findings are inconsistent. There is a notable lack of longitudinal data from the West African diving industry, particularly from the environmentally challenging Niger Delta region. This replication study aimed to longitudinally assess cognitive function in a cohort of Nigerian saturation divers. Its primary objective was to determine the prevalence and progression of measurable cognitive changes over time within this specific occupational group. A longitudinal cohort study was conducted with professional saturation divers based in Port Harcourt. Participants completed a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery at baseline and at follow-up intervals over a five-year period. The battery assessed memory, psychomotor speed, and executive function. Results were compared against a matched control group of non-diving offshore workers. Analysis indicated a statistically significant decline in psychomotor speed and visual memory in the diver cohort over the study period compared to controls. Approximately 18% of divers exhibited a clinically meaningful decline in at least two cognitive domains. No significant change was observed in measures of verbal fluency or attention. This replication confirms that long-term saturation diving in this environment is associated with measurable decline in specific cognitive functions. It supports earlier international findings and underscores a significant occupational health concern for the regional industry. Routine, periodic neuropsychological screening should be implemented for saturation divers in the region. Further research is needed to identify specific diving exposure variables linked to cognitive outcomes and to explore potential protective interventions. saturation diving, cognitive function, neuropsychology, occupational health, longitudinal study, Nigeria This study provides the first longitudinal data on cognitive outcomes for saturation divers working in the Niger Delta, filling a critical gap in the regional hyperbaric medicine literature and replicating key international findings in a local context.
An Action Research Study of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Severe Anaemia in Jehovah’s Witness Patients at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital, Tanzania
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for severe anemia in Jehovah's Witness patients refusing blood transfusion at the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Tanzania. The objective is to clarify key debates, identify practical implications, and outline a focused agenda for scholarship and policy. A qualitative approach was used, drawing on recent literature and policy sources to frame the analysis. The analysis indicates persistent structural constraints alongside emerging local innovations; however, evidence remains uneven across contexts and sectors. The paper argues for context‑specific approaches and stronger empirical foundations in future research. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for severe anemia in Jehovah's Witness patients refusing blood transfusion at the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital, Tanzania, Africa, Medicine, action research This structured abstract provides a standardised summary to support rapid screening, indexing, and assessment of scholarly contribution.
Assessing Cardiovascular Demands in Simulated Underwater Welding
Underwater welding is a hazardous occupation with significant cardiovascular risks. There is a paucity of research and regionally relevant safety protocols addressing these risks within the specific context of African diving conditions and occupational health monitoring practices. This book review assesses a monograph investigating cardiovascular demands during simulated underwater welding. Its objective is to evaluate the book’s contribution to understanding physiological strain and its relevance for occupational health monitoring from an African perspective. The review critically analyses the monograph’s content and approach. The primary methodology of the reviewed book involved continuous electrocardiogram (ECG) and oxygen consumption monitoring during simulated welding tasks in a controlled environment in Uganda. As a book review, this article presents no empirical results. The analysis finds the book effectively highlights the substantial cardiovascular strain associated with underwater welding. It identifies a key theme: the critical importance of real-time physiological monitoring, arguing such practices are not yet standardised in many African commercial diving operations. The reviewed book is a valuable resource. It successfully translates physiological research into practical occupational health insights, making a strong case for enhanced cardiovascular monitoring for underwater welders in African conditions. The review recommends the book for hyperbaric physicians, diving safety officers, and occupational health researchers in Africa. It suggests the text should prompt industry stakeholders to review and adopt more rigorous health surveillance protocols based on its evidence. Occupational diving, hyperbaric medicine, cardiovascular physiology, underwater welding, health surveillance, Africa This review synthesises and critiques a key text, highlighting its role in advancing the discourse on regionally specific occupational health standards for commercial divers in Africa.
Algorithmic Disparity and Decompression Safety
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning The impact of dive computer algorithm choice on no-decompression limits and safety margins for technical wreck divers in the SS Thistlegorm in Namibia. The objective is to clarify key debates, identify practical implications, and outline a focused agenda for scholarship and policy. A qualitative approach was used, drawing on recent literature and policy sources to frame the analysis. This abstract is primarily indicative, outlining the scope and conceptual framing rather than reporting empirical results. The paper argues for context‑specific approaches and stronger empirical foundations in future research. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. The impact of dive computer algorithm choice on no-decompression limits and safety margins for technical wreck divers in the SS Thistlegorm, Namibia, Africa, Medicine, theoretical This structured abstract provides a standardised summary to support rapid screening, indexing, and assessment of scholarly contribution.
A Protocol to Investigate the Adoption and Safety Profile of an Underwater Acoustic Diver Emergency Signalling Device in the Lobster Diving Community of False Bay, South Africa
Commercial lobster diving in False Bay is a high-risk activity with a history of incidents. Existing surface-based emergency signals are frequently inadequate in poor conditions. Underwater acoustic signalling technology presents a potential alternative, but its adoption and effect on safety within this community are not documented. This protocol describes a study to assess the adoption rate and safety profile of an underwater acoustic diver emergency signalling (UADES) device among False Bay’s professional lobster divers. The primary objectives are to measure the device's adoption following a targeted intervention and to compare patterns of reported safety incidents before and after its introduction. A mixed-methods, prospective cohort study will be conducted. All active lobster divers in the region will be invited. After a baseline survey on current safety practices, participants will receive a UADES unit and training. Quantitative data on device usage and diving incidents will be collected via monthly logbooks and follow-up surveys over one diving season. Qualitative data on user experience will be obtained through concluding focus group discussions. This is a study protocol; no empirical findings exist. The primary anticipated outcome is a quantified device adoption rate. Secondary outcomes will include analysed trends in near-misses and emergency reports, and thematic insights into the divers’ perceptions of the device’s utility and integration into their safety routines. The study is designed to produce new evidence on the practical uptake and perceived safety value of an acoustic signalling device in a high-risk African diving setting. This evidence will inform future safety equipment strategies for comparable artisanal diving communities. Based on the results, recommendations will be developed for diving safety regulators, equipment manufacturers, and training agencies concerning the implementation and promotion of such devices. diving safety, hyperbaric medicine, underwater acoustics, emergency signalling, occupational health, South Africa This protocol outlines the first structured investigation into the adoption and safety impact of an underwater acoustic emergency device within a high-risk African commercial diving community, aiming to fill a significant evidence gap in regional diving medicine.