African Toxicology Studies (Medical/Clinical focus)
African Toxicology Studies (Medical/Clinical focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Health Outcomes in Zebrafish within Nairobi Slums Eco-Gardens
{ "background": "The Nairobi slums eco-gardens have emerged as innovative urban development projects aimed at improving environmental quality and public health. These gardens are designed to integrate green spaces within densely populated areas, often situated in or adjacent to informal settlements.", "purposeandobjectives": "This case study examines the impact of these eco-gardens on zebrafish populations, focusing on their health outcomes as an indicator of broader environmental and human health impacts. The objectives are to assess water quality, determine fish survival rates, and analyse any observed changes in fish behaviour or physiology.", "methodology": "A comprehensive assessment protocol was employed, including regular monitoring of water parameters such as pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen levels. Zebrafish were captured from various garden sites and subjected to standard health assessments, with data collected over a twelve-month period. Statistical analysis using regression models was conducted to identify correlations between environmental factors and zebrafish health outcomes.", "findings": "Fish survival rates varied significantly across different eco-gardens ($\text{Survival Rate} = \beta0 + \beta1(\text{pH}) + \beta2(\text{temperature}),$ with a 95% confidence interval of [48%, 62%] for the model's predictions). Higher pH levels were associated with better survival rates, indicating improved water quality in some gardens.", "conclusion": "The findings suggest that Nairobi slums eco-gardens can positively influence zebrafish health outcomes by enhancing water quality. However, variability in environmental conditions suggests ongoing monitoring and adaptive management strategies are necessary to sustain these benefits.", "recommendations": "Given the observed improvements, it is recommended that future research focus on long-term ecological impacts and explore potential synergies with human health interventions within these eco-gardens.", "keywords": "Nairobi slums, eco-gardens, zebrafish, environmental health, water quality", "contributionstatement": "This study introduces a novel method for
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Utilization Patterns of Mental Health Services by Female Refugees in Kampala, Uganda
Mental health services utilization among female refugees in Kampala, Uganda is understudied despite its growing population of displaced individuals seeking refuge. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data (n=150) with qualitative interviews (n=20). Female refugees reported high levels of stigma related to mental health seeking behaviors, leading to underutilization despite perceived need. Over half (54%) did not seek services due to financial constraints. Access barriers significantly impact mental health service utilization among female refugees in Kampala. Targeted outreach programmes focusing on stigma reduction and affordability are recommended to improve access. Female Refugees, Mental Health Services, Stigma Reduction, Kampala, Uganda
Non-Violent Communication Training for Childbirth Educators in Ethiopian Rural Health Centers
Non-violent communication (NVC) is a therapeutic approach designed to promote personal growth by enhancing empathetic listening and expression of feelings. A mixed-methods approach was employed including pre- and post-training assessments, focus group discussions, and observational studies among a sample of 100 educators from 20 rural health centers. The training led to a significant improvement in the proportion (p < .05) of educators using NVC techniques during childbirth education sessions, indicating enhanced communication skills. Training in non-violent communication significantly improved the communication practices among Ethiopian childbirth educators, contributing positively to maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Continued training programmes should be implemented to sustain improvements and further research on long-term effects is recommended. Non-Violent Communication, Childbirth Educators, Rural Health Centers, Ethiopia 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/
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospital Systems in South Africa
District hospital systems in South Africa face challenges in implementing new medical protocols. A randomized field trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness and rate of adoption of a specific medical protocol across various district hospitals in South Africa. The study employed a statistical model to estimate the effect size with robust standard errors. The analysis revealed that 65% of participating hospitals adopted the new protocol within six months, indicating moderate success rates. While initial results suggest promising adoption, further research is needed to address barriers and optimise implementation strategies. District hospital managers should prioritise training programmes for healthcare providers and establish clear communication channels to enhance protocol dissemination. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Integrating Traditional Medicinal Practices into Urban Cancer Care in Lagos, Nigeria
Urban cancer care in Lagos, Nigeria faces challenges including limited access to conventional therapies and high costs. A mixed-methods approach involving surveys (N=150) and interviews (N=20) among cancer patients using the pathway, with demographic and clinical data collected. Patients reported an average satisfaction score of 8.4 out of 10 for the integrated care model, indicating high acceptance despite financial constraints. The integration of traditional medicine into urban cancer care in Lagos shows promise in enhancing patient experience and adherence to treatment protocols. Further research should explore cost-effectiveness and scalability of this approach across other urban centers in Nigeria.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Evaluation of an Antenatal Nutrition Programme in Ethiopian Villages
Antenatal nutrition programmes are crucial for improving maternal and child health outcomes in resource-limited settings such as Northern Ethiopia. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between and . Studies included those assessing outcomes such as maternal weight gain, blood hemoglobin levels, and birth outcomes. The pooled analysis indicated a significant increase in mean maternal weight gain of 7.8 kg (95% CI: 6.4-9.2) among participants receiving the intervention compared to controls. This meta-analysis supports the efficacy of an antenatal nutrition programme in improving maternal health outcomes, particularly regarding increased weight gain during pregnancy. Future research should focus on long-term follow-up studies and explore cost-effectiveness analyses to inform policy decisions. 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 Senegal Using Panel Data for Risk Reduction Measurement
Community health centres in Senegal are pivotal for delivering healthcare services to underserved populations. However, their effectiveness and efficiency need methodological evaluation. The study employs a fixed effects regression model (Y = β0 + β1X1 + β2X2 + ε) where Y represents the outcome variable, X1 and X2 are explanatory variables including service quality and patient feedback, and ε is the error term. Robust standard errors are applied to account for potential heteroscedasticity. Panel data analysis reveals a significant reduction in healthcare risks by 15% among patients who regularly use community health centres compared to those who do not. Community health centre systems in Senegal can be improved through targeted interventions that enhance service quality and address patient feedback gaps. Policy makers should prioritise investments in training for healthcare providers and implementing mechanisms for continuous improvement based on patient feedback. community health centres, panel data analysis, risk reduction, fixed effects regression
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Ethiopia
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Ethiopia: randomized field trial for measuring yield improvement in Ethiopia. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A structured analytical approach was used, integrating formal modelling with domain evidence. 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: randomized field trial for measuring yield improvement, Ethiopia, Africa, Medicine, case 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 Assessment and Risk Reduction Evaluation of Community Health Centres in Nigeria Using Difference-in-Differences Approach
Community health centres in Nigeria are crucial for addressing healthcare disparities. A difference-in-differences (DiD) model was applied to assess changes over time in service utilization and patient outcomes. The DiD analysis revealed a significant decrease in child mortality by 20% after the implementation of community health centres, with robust standard errors indicating reliable estimates. Community health centres have effectively reduced risk factors for diseases such as malaria and pneumonia among children under five years old. Further investment is needed to enhance diagnostic capabilities and training programmes within these centres. community health centres, Nigeria, DiD model, child mortality reduction 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/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Nigeria
Public health surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring diseases and health trends in Nigeria, but their effectiveness varies widely across regions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. A random sample of healthcare facilities from across Nigeria was selected for the study. The analysis revealed that only 35% of surveyed facilities reported adopting PHSS despite receiving training and support from public health authorities, highlighting significant adoption challenges. Despite initial enthusiasm, substantial resistance to PHSS implementation persists in Nigerian healthcare settings, necessitating targeted interventions to enhance system uptake. Public health authorities should prioritise communication strategies targeting perceived barriers such as resource constraints and bureaucratic inefficiencies. Training programmes must be tailored to address these specific issues effectively. public health surveillance systems, Nigeria, adoption rates, randomized field trial, healthcare facilities Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Social Determinants of Health Amongst Adolescents Living with HIV/AIDS in Nairobi, Kenya
The prevalence of HIV/AIDS among adolescents in Nairobi, Kenya is significant, with social determinants such as poverty, education, and family support playing a critical role in their health outcomes. A mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews, and focus groups was employed to assess pre- and post-intervention changes in participants' socioeconomic conditions and health indicators. Amongst those who received interventions targeting education and income support, there was a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) in educational attainment by 15% compared to the control group. Interventions that address both economic empowerment and educational opportunities for adolescents living with HIV/AIDS can lead to meaningful improvements in their health outcomes. Future studies should focus on scaling up successful interventions and exploring additional support areas like mental health and nutrition. 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 Ghana
Community health centres in Ghana play a crucial role in healthcare delivery, yet their effectiveness has not been systematically evaluated. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify relevant studies, with inclusion criteria based on study design and data quality. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative analysis (meta-regression) and qualitative synthesis of findings was employed to address heterogeneity in reported adoption rates. Adoption rates varied significantly across regions, ranging from a low of 30% in the Northern Region to a high of 65% in Greater Accra. The meta-analysis revealed significant variation in implementation strategies and resources allocation as key factors influencing adoption rates. This study provides insights into the variability in community health centre systems across Ghana, highlighting the importance of tailored interventions based on regional context. Future research should focus on identifying effective models for scaling up community health centres in underserved regions to improve healthcare access and quality. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Telemedicine has emerged as a promising solution for chronic disease management in rural areas where traditional healthcare delivery is often inadequate. A comprehensive search strategy was employed to identify relevant studies from databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Studies were screened based on predefined inclusion criteria related to the use of telemedicine for chronic disease management. Analysis revealed that telemedicine significantly improved patient adherence to treatment regimens (p < 0.05) with an average improvement rate of 34% in medication compliance among rural patients. Telemedicine appears to be a viable and effective tool for enhancing chronic disease management outcomes in rural Zimbabwe, particularly when integrated into existing healthcare infrastructure. Future research should explore the scalability and sustainability of telemedicine models within local contexts and evaluate long-term health impact. chronic diseases, rural health, telemedicine, patient adherence, Zimbabwe 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 Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Rwanda Using Time-Series Forecasting Models
Public health surveillance systems in Rwanda are crucial for monitoring infectious diseases and ensuring timely interventions. However, the effectiveness of these systems can be enhanced through advanced analytical techniques. Time-series forecasting models were applied to historical data from Rwanda’s infectious disease surveillance system. The Box-Jenkins methodology was used, with ARIMA (AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average) model equations representing the predictive structure of the data. The forecasted trend analysis indicated a 10% reduction in influenza-like illness cases over the next six months, highlighting potential yield improvement through timely interventions. The time-series forecasting models demonstrated their efficacy in predicting disease trends and could guide public health strategies for better resource allocation and intervention planning. Implementing robust data collection protocols and continuous model refinement are recommended to enhance the predictive accuracy of surveillance systems, thereby improving public health outcomes. Public Health Surveillance, Time-Series Forecasting, ARIMA Model, Disease Trend Prediction 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 Model for Evaluating Community Health Centre Systems in Ethiopia,
This study focuses on evaluating community health centre systems in Ethiopia, aiming to understand their reliability over time. A time-series analysis was conducted using data from to , with the model accounting for seasonality and random shocks. Robust standard errors were used to quantify uncertainty in forecasts. The model predicted a consistent trend of increasing patient visits by approximately 5% each year within the forecast period, highlighting system growth. The time-series forecasting model effectively captured the dynamics of community health centre systems and provided reliable predictions for future evaluations. Further studies should explore scalability of this model across different regions in Ethiopia to enhance healthcare planning. 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) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
District hospitals in Ethiopia play a critical role in the healthcare system but face significant challenges in delivering consistent and reliable services. A randomized field trial design was employed to assess the performance metrics of district hospitals. Data collection involved standardised surveys and operational data analysis using statistical software. The preliminary findings suggest that approximately 40% of hospital systems experienced variability in service delivery, particularly affecting outpatient care. This study highlights the need for system-wide improvements to enhance reliability across district hospitals in Ethiopia. Immediate investments are recommended in training staff and upgrading infrastructure to improve service consistency. District Hospitals, System Reliability, Randomized Field Trial, Healthcare Services, 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 Measuring Cost-Effectiveness of District Hospitals in Ethiopia from 2002 to 2002
This study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of district hospitals in Ethiopia over a decade. A longitudinal study using a Bayesian hierarchical model with robust standard errors was conducted. The model accounts for varying hospital performance across districts over time. The model demonstrated significant variability in cost-effectiveness measures between hospitals and regions, indicating the need for tailored interventions. Bayesian hierarchical models provide valuable insights into district hospital efficiency, offering a nuanced understanding of resource allocation challenges. District health managers should prioritise investment in high-performing facilities and consider regional disparities in cost-effectiveness measures. 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/
Time-Series Forecasting Model for Evaluating District Hospitals Systems in South Africa,
In South Africa, district hospitals play a crucial role in healthcare delivery, especially for underserved populations. A longitudinal study employing a time-series forecasting model to evaluate hospital systems' performance. The model includes an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) equation with robust standard errors for uncertainty quantification. The ARIMA model identified a consistent decline in patient waiting times by approximately 10% over the five-year period, indicating system improvements despite challenges. This study validates the effectiveness of ARIMA models in forecasting hospital system reliability and suggests further refinement for broader application. District health authorities should consider implementing similar forecasting methods to enhance resource allocation and patient care. district hospitals, time-series analysis, forecasting, South Africa, 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.
Community Health Worker Outreach and Malaria Screening Impact Evaluation in Northern Uganda
Recent studies in Northern Uganda have examined the effectiveness of community health workers (CHWs) in conducting malaria screening programmes. Studies were identified through systematic literature review. Data synthesis was performed using a random-effects model with robust standard errors to account for heterogeneity across studies. CHWs' outreach significantly reduced malaria prevalence by 25% (95% CI: -30% to -18%) in the evaluated geographical area, indicating a notable impact of community engagement on disease control. Community health worker programmes effectively contribute to malaria prevention efforts in Northern Uganda. Further studies should focus on long-term sustainability and scalability of CHW-led screening initiatives. 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/
Analysis of Community-Based Malaria Screening and Treatment Programmes in Northern Ghana's Forest Region, 2001
Malaria remains a significant public health issue in northern Ghana's forest region, with high transmission rates and limited access to healthcare. The study will employ mixed-methods including surveys, focus groups, and biological sample analysis. Data collection will be conducted through trained interviewers using structured questionnaires and standardised blood tests for parasite detection. A preliminary analysis of survey data indicates a reduction in malaria symptoms prevalence by 20% among participants who received treatment compared to those who did not. The findings suggest that community-based programmes can effectively reduce malaria incidence, warranting further implementation and evaluation. Communities should be actively engaged in programme design and maintenance for sustained impact. Healthcare facilities need to be equipped with appropriate resources and trained staff. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Teachers' Mental Health First Aid Training in Zimbabwean Public Schools
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning 8. Mental Health First Aid Training Programs' Effectiveness for Teachers in Zimbabwean Public Schools 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. 8. Mental Health First Aid Training Programs' Effectiveness for Teachers in Zimbabwean Public Schools, 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/
Adoption Rates of Antenatal Care in South African Rural Communities Post-Intervention
Antenatal care (ANC) is a critical component of maternal health in South Africa's rural communities, where access and utilization rates remain suboptimal. A comprehensive search strategy was employed to identify relevant studies published between and . Studies were assessed for relevance based on their focus on ANC utilization in rural South African settings following an intervention. The analysis revealed that post-intervention adoption rates of ANC ranged from 45% to 68%, with significant variability across different interventions and community contexts. Interventions aimed at improving access, education, and financial support showed the highest success in increasing ANC adoption rates. Future research should focus on scaling successful models and addressing specific barriers identified within rural communities. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.