All Articles
Original Article97 downloads
Assessment of the toxicity associated with the two regimens administered post-EBRT in locally advanced head and neck cancerBackground: The fractionation scheme in HNC patients is a complicated problem, as many factors are involved. In this case, the main concern would be minimizing overall treatment time without increasing acute reactions. Aim: To assess the toxicity associated with the two regimens administered post-EBRT in locally advanced head and neck cancer.
Methods: Quasi-experimental study was carried out in the Department of Oncology, Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College and Hospital (KYAMCH) during the period October 2017 to March 2018 and the study done among a total of 60 patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer were included in this study and distributed 30 in A and 30 in arm B. Result: majority of the study subjects were from 50-59 years age group (Arm A 36.7%, Arm B 36.7%). The mean age of patients in Arm A was 52.97± 9.07 years and in Arm B was 50.80±9.96 years. Moreover, in Arm A, 40% were from the lower class, 53.3% were from the middle class and 6.70% were from the upper class. The most common toxicity was Grade 2, and 3 neutropenia (26.7% and 13.3% respectively). Toxicities included Grade 2, 3 mucositis (26.7%, 6.7%), Grade 2 thrombocytopenia (6.7%), Grade 2 diarrhea (20.0%), Grade 2 nausea (33.3%) and Grade 2 vomiting (16.7%). The treatment response was not significant.
Conclusion: Various toxicities occurred in this study, the most common were mucositis, neutropenia, nausea, diarrhea, and alopecia but all those were manageable.
Original Article363 downloads
A CASE REPORT OF TYPE 4H CHARCOT-MARIE-TOOTH DISEASE SUCCESSFULLY TREATED WITH INDIVIDUALIZED HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINECharcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), also known as hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy or HMSN, is the most prevalent inherited neuromuscular ailment and one of the most prevalent groups of genetic disorders in humans. The primary clinical manifestation of CMT is comparatively uniform, characterised by distal limb muscular weakness and wasting, skeletal abnormalities such as pes cavus, and diminished or absent tendon reflexes. Although mild-to-moderate sensory abnormalities are conceivable, majority of patients do not experience clinical sensory problems. There are no previous studies conducted in Homoeopathy on CMT. The case reported was of a 25-year-old female born of consanguineous marriage, presented with weakness and tingling sensation of both upper and lower extremities with difficulty to stand and walk, tendency to fall while walking, inability to hold the neck without support, inability to sit without support and difficulty in swallowing for 6 months. The patient had conducted genetic testing and got diagnosed as CMT, Type 4H. After repertorization, on the basis of totality of symptoms, Phosphorus 30C was given and the medicine was repeated infrequently based on homoeopathic principles and physiotherapy sessions were also advised. During the course of the treatment potency was changed to 200C. Within 6 months of treatment the patient had marked improvement in her complaints and the positive causal attribution was assessed by MONARCH. The video evidence taken after the treatment along with the assessment report from physiotherapist have provided evidence for the improvement obtained from Phosphorus in CMT.
Original Article107 downloads
Blood lipid profile in diabetics followed at Yaounde Central Hospital: influence of some risk factors, diabetic imbalance and high blood pressureDiabetes is one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity in Cameroon, with type 2 diabetes (T2D) being the most common. Our work is part of the search for additional solutions to improve the management of diabetic patients. The general objective was to identify the factors likely to adversely modify the lipid profile in people suffering from type 2 diabetes. This was a prospective analytical cross-sectional study conducted at the Yaounde Central Hospital (YHC), over a period of (03) months, from 1st May 2023 to 31 July 2023, on volunteer participants suffering from either diabetes or diabetes hypertension. A questionnaire was used to collect the various data. Statistical analyses using SPSS version 23 software enabled us to identify the factors likely to adversely modify the lipid profile in people with type 2 diabetes followed at Yaounde Central Hospital. Of the 159 patients recruited 109 (69%) were women, 50 (31%) were men, 74 (46.5%) had diabetes alone and 85 (53.5%) had diabetes and hypertension. We have seen that factors such as age, female sex, living environment, high BMI, and hypertension are risk factors for diabetes in the study population, total cholesterol (TC) is influenced by religion and type of anti-diabetic medication, LDL cholesterol (LDL-c) by the urban environment and the triglyceride and HDL association by high blood sugar levels. Diabetic imbalance influences triglyceride levels in the study population as a whole, in non-hypertensive diabetics and hypertensive diabetics, while hypertension does not influence the lipid profile.
Original Article228 downloads
A review of Colorectal Cancer in Tanzania: an exploratory study in relation to the work of (Mziray et al 2024) in selected regional hospitals, Dar es Salaam – TanzaniaBackground: Persons with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors may need earlier or more frequent screening. Regular and early screening can significantly reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality by detecting and removing precancerous polyps or detecting cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
Objective: To explore colorectal cancer (CRC) clinically, its impact on the population among aged patients in regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam - Tanazania.
Methodology: The researchers used exploratory research design to underpin the work of (mziray et al 2024) since both teams worked in same facilities with similar indicators. Socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, and awareness about CRC were assessed through observations, clinical test, in-depth interviews and confirmed cases of CRC that has been managed surgically and medically. Diagnostic interventions, including stool analysis, H. pylori antigen testing, and endoscopic interventions Risk assessment for CRC was conducted based on dietary habits and medical history.
Conclusion: Socio-demographic analysis revealed limited awareness and knowledge about CRC, with notable disparities between positive and negative CRC cases. Comprehensive screening programs, coupled with increased knowledge dissemination, are crucial for early detection and prevention of CRC in Tanzania
Original Article179 downloads
PROMOTION OF LOCAL CROPS TO STRENGTHEN FOOD SECURITY IN SIA, KWILU PROVINCE, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO: PROPOSING SOLUTIONS BASED ON LOCAL AGRICULTURE AND DIETARY DIVERSIFICATIONThis article proposes strategies to strengthen food security in Sia, Kwilu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo, by leveraging local agriculture and dietary diversification. The objective is to promote sustainable solutions tailored to local contexts to address food insecurity challenges exacerbated by inadequate farming practices, climate change, and a lack of infrastructure.
The methodology is based on an extensive literature review using databases such as PubMed, JSTOR, and The Lancet. Existing nutritional interventions, including dietary diversification programs and participatory agricultural practices, were analyzed for their successes and limitations. The study underscores the importance of promoting local crops like maize, cassava, and sweet potato, while incorporating sustainable farming techniques.
Results indicate that local agriculture fosters food and economic resilience by improving nutritional intake and stimulating local economies. However, challenges persist, including climatic constraints, limited financial resources, and weak agricultural policies.
In conclusion, the article advocates for actions to build the capacity of local farmers, diversify crop production, improve infrastructure, and implement policies supporting local agriculture. Collaboration among local and international stakeholders is crucial to support these initiatives through participatory approaches and evidence-based solutions, ensuring sustainable and inclusive food security.
Original Article151 downloads
Effect of Nutrition Education on Eating Habits and Obesity PreventionObesity is a significant global health concern, contributing to numerous chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, respiratory issues, and mental health disorders. Poor dietary habits, including excessive consumption of processed foods and high-calorie diets, have been identified as key factors in the rising prevalence of obesity. One of the most effective strategies for combating this epidemic is nutrition education, which enhances individuals' understanding of healthy eating practices and the impact of food choices on overall well-being. Various educational methods, including school programs, community workshops, digital platforms, and healthcare provider guidance, play a crucial role in promoting sustainable behavioral changes. By improving dietary choices, encouraging portion control, and integrating physical activity, nutrition education helps reduce obesity rates and associated health risks. Government policies and public health campaigns further reinforce the importance of nutrition education, leading to a more health-conscious society. Expanding and innovating nutrition education programs can significantly lower obesity rates and alleviate the burden of diet-related diseases worldwide.
Original Article274 downloads
Impact of Probiotics on Human HealthAbstract: - The purpose of this review is to investigate the health benefits of probiotics, which are live bacteria that favorably affect people when consumed in enough amounts. Probiotics such as yeast, bifidobacteria, and lactic acid bacteria are commonly utilized. As mentioned in this review, these beneficial bacteria may compete with pathogens that alter the gut microbiota and have anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and immunomodulatory properties. A number of medications, including antibiotics, can now be replaced with probiotics. A period of major changes is hinted at by the growth of fields devoted to the study of the microbiome and the role that probiotics play in enhancing it. An increasing number of potential probiotic species are being discovered that can target newly identified host targets and microbial niches based on data. In order to protect human health, probiotics, symbiotics, postbiotics, microbial consortia, live biotherapeutic products, and genetically modified organisms are among the new types of microbiome-modulating interventions under development. Polyphenols, fibers, and fermented foods are also receiving more attention. The effectiveness of probiotics is also influenced by the delivery system because the agents used in the delivery aid the bacteria in surviving in the hostile environment of the human gut.
