International Research and Academic scholar society

IRASS Journal of Applied Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Issue-11(November), Volume-2 2025

1. Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Hepatitis B Virus Infect...
3

Azenwi Vera*, Bissong Calvin E...
Department of Medical laboratory science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bamenda
1-13
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17563620

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major cause of liver inflammation and remains a significant global health challenge. The infection can manifest as either acute or chronic disease, leading to severe complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HBV is transmitted through exposure to infected blood and body fluids, sexual contact, and vertical transmission from mother to child. Despite global control efforts, the disease burden remains disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries. In Cameroon, HBV prevalence exhibits substantial geographic and demographic variability, underscoring the need for context-specific epidemiological studies and tailored public health strategies to mitigate transmission and improve disease management. Objectives: This study aimed at determining the Seroprevalence and risk factors of viral hepatitis B infection among students at the University of Bamenda in order to intensify awareness, preventive measures and the need of proper immunization Methods: This was a school-based cross-sectional study conducted at the University of Bamenda, located in the North West Region of Cameroon. A total of 200 students were enrolled. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and potential transmission modes were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Rapid diagnostic tests were employed to detect hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in each participant. Furthermore, Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 in order to determine seroprevalence and to assess associations between infection and selected risk factors. Results: Of the 200 participants sampled, females recorded the highest prevalence of HBV infection (7.6%), while the highest infection rate by age group was observed among students aged 30 years and above (10.2%). The Faculty of Science (FS) exhibited the highest institutional prevalence (22.2%). Infection was more common among single (7.7%) and Christian (7.6%) participants. Homosexuality was the only risk factor significantly associated with HBsAg positivity. However, elevated prevalence rates were also observed among participants with a history of blood transfusion, unprotected sexual activity, sharing of fomites, longer campus stay, and limited knowledge about HBV Conclusion: This study found the seroprevalence of HBV infection among students of the University of Bamenda to be 7.7%, suggesting that the infection is highly endemic in this population according to WHO standards. These findings highlight the urgent need for intensified awareness campaigns, routine screening, and vaccination programs among students to enhance HBV prevention and control in university and community settings.

2. Determination of Some Abnormal Parameters in Urine of Pregnant Women A...
4

Ozor Josephat Ejike*, Folasade...
Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Federal College of Veterinary and Medical Laboratory Technology Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria
14-18
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17626102

Abnormal parameters in urine can be a sign of some pathologic conditions and more especially in pregnancy because it will constitute a danger sign to both the fetus and her mother. But if detected on time can be treated or managed for the good health of the fetus and the would be mother. Women with glycosuria in the first and second trimester had a significantly higher incidence of developing gestational diabetes and those with proteinuria have a higher chance of developing preeclampsia in the course of their pregnancy. This study was to determine the presence and/or absence of abnormal parameters in urine of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in two districts of Jos south LGA, Plateau state. A total of 90 consented pregnant women from three different hospitals: Primary health care Vwang, Mercy seat hospital and Vom Christian hospital were enrolled alongside 90 non-pregnant women who served as our control. Their urine was examined for presence and/or absence of some abnormal parameters in urine that include glucose, protein, bilirubin, urobilinogen and ketones. 8 (8.9%) of pregnant women had at least one abnormal parameter found in their urine with age group 31- 40 years having the highest number of participants 4 (4.4%) with abnormal parameters while age group 41-50 years had no participants with any abnormal parameters found in her urine. Based on trimester, 2nd and 3rd trimester had equal number of participants 4 (4.4%) with abnormal parameter found in their urine while those in 1st trimester had no participants with any abnormal parameter seen in her urine sample. This study found out that all abnormal parameters noted among the pregnant women was equally seen in non-pregnant women that served as control except that of protein in urine which can be termed as pregnancy induced proteinuria. Women should be encouraged to register for their antenatal care and carry out their routine antenatal test screening in order to detect any abnormal parameter that may constitute a danger sign to both the women and her fetus.

3. Prevalence and Clinical Correlates of Overweight and Obesity among Sta...
3

Hamidat Oluwatoyin Ajiboye, Ba...
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
19-24
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17677707

Overweight and obesity, disorders of energy metabolism characterized by excess adipose tissue, contribute significantly to global morbidity and mortality. With increasing urbanization and lifestyle shifts, Nigeria faces rising prevalence rates, including among university staff. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and clinical correlates of overweight and obesity among staff of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS). Descriptive cross-sectional study was used among 109 consenting non-academic and academic staff of UDUS using structured questionnaires to collect socio-demographic and behavioral data. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical assays, including fasting blood glucose, lipid profiles, leptin, and renal function tests, were performed. Data were analyzed by using a logistic regression to identify determinants of overweight and obese, with statistical significance of p < 0.05. The prevalence of overweight and obesity combined were 47%, with non-academic staff showing higher risk. Family history of diabetes and medication use was significant which were associated overweight and obesity (p < 0.05). Other clinical markers such as hypertension history, lipid parameters, fasting glucose, and leptin levels did not show significant associations. Occupation and fruit consumption frequency independently predicted overweight and obesity after adjusting for age. The high prevalence aligns with prior regional studies and underscores the impact of sedentary work and dietary habits on obesity risk. The paradoxical positive association between fruit consumption and obesity may reflect intake of sugar-rich fruit products. Overweight and obesity remain highly prevalent among UDUS staff, influenced by occupational status and dietary patterns. Workplace health interventions focusing on activity promotion and nutrition education are essential.





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