Use of medicinal plants for COVID-19 prevention and respiratory symptom treatment during the pandemic in Cusco, Peru: A cross-sectional survey

Background The burden of the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru has led to people seeking alternative treatments as preventives and treatment options such as medicinal plants. This study aimed to assess factors associated with the use of medicinal plants as preventive or treatment of respiratory symptom related to COVID-19 during the pandemic in Cusco, Peru. Method A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted on general public (20- to 70-year-old) from August 31 to September 20, 2020. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire via Google Forms, it consisted of an 11-item questionnaire that was developed and validated by expert judgment using Aiken’s V (Aiken’s V > 0.9). Both descriptive statistics and bivariate followed by multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess factors associated with the use of medicinal plants for COVID-19 prevention and respiratory symptom treatment during the pandemic. Prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI), and a P-value of 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. Results A total of 1,747 respondents participated in the study, 80.2% reported that they used medicinal plants as preventives, while 71% reported that they used them to treat respiratory symptoms. At least, 24% of respondents used medicinal plants when presenting with two or more respiratory symptoms, while at least 11% used plants for malaise. For treatment or prevention, the multivariate analysis showed that most respondents used eucalyptus (p < 0.001 for both), ginger (p < 0.022 for both), spiked pepper (p < 0.003 for both), garlic (p = 0.023 for prevention), and chamomile (p = 0.011 for treatment). The respondents with COVID-19 (p < 0.001), at older ages (p = 0.046), and with a family member or friend who had COVID-19 (p < 0.001) used more plants for prevention. However, the respondents with technical or higher education used less plants for treatment (p < 0.001). Conclusion There was a significant use of medicinal plants for both prevention and treatment, which was associated with several population characteristics and whether respondents had COVID-19.

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Use of medicinal plants for COVID-19 prevention and respiratory symptom treatment during the pandemic in Cusco, Peru: A cross-sectional survey

10.1101/2021.05.26.21257890 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Magaly Villena-Tejada ◽

Ingrid Vera-Ferchau ◽

Anahi Cardona-Rivero ◽

Rina Zamalloa-Cornejo ◽

Mercedes Maritza Quispe-Florez ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Medicinal Plants ◽

Respiratory Symptom ◽

Respiratory Symptoms ◽

Statistical Significance ◽

Treatment Options ◽

Population Characteristics ◽

P Value ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Factors Associated

Background: The burden of the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru has led to people seeking alternative treatments as preventives and treatment options such as medicinal plants. This study aimed to assess factors associated with the use of medicinal plants as preventive or treatment of respiratory symptom related to COVID-19 during the pandemic in Cusco, Peru. Method: A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted on general public (20- to 70-year-old) from August 31 to September 20, 2020. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire via Google Forms, it consisted of an 11-item questionnaire that was developed and validated by expert judgment using Aiken's V (Aiken's V > 0.9). Both descriptive statistics and bivariate followed by multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess factors associated with the use of medicinal plants for COVID-19 prevention and respiratory symptom treatment during the pandemic. Prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI), and a P-value of 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. Results: A total of 1,747 respondents participated in the study, 80.2% reported that they used medicinal plants as preventives, while 71% reported that they used them to treat respiratory symptoms. At least, 24% of respondents used medicinal plants when presenting with two or more respiratory symptoms, while at least 11% used plants for malaise. For treatment or prevention, the multivariate analysis showed that most respondents used eucalyptus (p < 0.001 for both), ginger (p < 0.022 for both), spiked pepper (p < 0.003 for both), garlic (p = 0.023 for prevention), and chamomile (p = 0.011 for treatment). The respondents with COVID-19 (p < 0.001), at older ages (p = 0.046), and with a family member or friend who had COVID-19 (p < 0.001) used more plants for prevention. However, the respondents with technical or higher education used less plants for treatment (p < 0.001). Conclusion: There was a significant use of medicinal plants for both prevention and treatment, which was associated with several population characteristics and whether respondents had COVID-19.

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Prevalence and Associated Factors of Hypertension Among Adults living in the City of Bandundu, Republic Democratic Republic of the Congo. A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

10.21203/rs.3.rs-144209/v1 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Ferdinand Mukoso ◽

Aliocha Nkodila ◽

François Lepira ◽

Pascal Bayauli ◽

Yves Lubenga ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Risk Factors ◽

Cardiovascular Risk ◽

Sleep Duration ◽

Subclinical Atherosclerosis ◽

Statistical Significance ◽

Epidemiological Data ◽

Cluster Sampling ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Factors Associated

Abstract Background and aim: In limited resource settings, reliable epidemiological data generated from hypertension high risk geographical areas or people is a prerequisite for the planning of proven and effective interventions. The aim of the present survey was to assess the prevalence, awareness, control and factors associated with hypertension in adults living in the port City of Bandundu, located in the southwestern part of DRC.Methods: a cross-sectional survey using a modified WHO STEPwise questionnaire for data collection during face-to face interviews was conducted from 1st May to 30th October 2018. A multistage cluster sampling method was used and inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years and informed consent. Information on demographic parameters, behavioral lifestyles, anthropometric and blood pressure (BP) measurements was obtained. Hypertension was defined as an average of two BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg or self-reported history of antihypertensive medication use. Independent factors associated with hypertension were identified using logistic regression analysis. P<0.05 defined the level of statistical significance. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 34,5% (Women 36,6 %). Older age (p<0.001), subclinical atherosclerosis (p= 0.021), sleep duration <8 hours (p<0.002), diabetes mellitus (p<0.001), and obesity (p= 0.009) emerged as main cardiovascular risk factors associated with hypertension.Conclusion: Hypertension was characterized by a high prevalence, low rate of awareness and suboptimal BP control, high cardiovascular risk and associated sleep duration and obesity as modifiable risk factors.

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Prevalence of and risk factors for respiratory symptoms in an adult urban population

The International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease ◽

10.5588/ijtld.20.0057 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 25 (1) ◽

pp. 16-22

Author(s):

Z. Akhter ◽

S. Razzaq ◽

U. Rabbani ◽

M. Irfan ◽

P. Burney ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Risk Factors ◽

Chronic Cough ◽

Respiratory Symptom ◽

Respiratory Symptoms ◽

Common Symptom ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Community Based ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Pakistani Population ◽

Multi Stage

OBJECTIVE: To determine prevalence of and risk factors for respiratory symptoms in an adult urban Pakistani population.METHODS: We conducted a multi-stage, community-based, cross-sectional survey from May 2014 to August 2015, comprising 1629 adults from 75 random clusters in Karachi using questionnaire-based interviews.RESULTS: Around 60% of participants were females and 43% belonged to the >37 years age group. At least one respiratory symptom was reported by 37.5% of participants. Breathlessness was the most common symptom (25.2%, 95%CI 23.1–27.3), followed by acute wheeze (10.1%, 95%CI 8.7–11.7). Multivariable models revealed that males and those aged >37 years were more likely to report acute and chronic phlegm and bronchitis, and breathlessness. Participants with a higher level of education were less likely to report acute and chronic cough. Participants with >5 years pack-years of smoking were more likely to report acute and chronic cough and breathlessness. Other risk factors included passive smoking, regular use of air conditioning and mosquito coils, wet spots and mould in the house, and exposure to dusty jobs.CONCLUSION: We found breathlessness to be the most prevalent respiratory symptom and identified various risk factors for respiratory symptoms.

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Towards Sustainable Development: Exploring the Knowledge of Environmental Impact Assessment among Undergraduates in a Nigerian University

Asian Journal of Advanced Research and Reports ◽

10.9734/ajarr/2020/v14i230324 ◽

2020 ◽

pp. 1-10

Author(s):

Queencallista N Sidney- Nnebue ◽

Anita O. Garba ◽

Gbenga E. Fadiora ◽

Felicia C. Etim ◽

Amanda N. Ezenagu ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Environmental Impact ◽

Marital Status ◽

Impact Assessment ◽

Environmental Impact Assessment ◽

Statistical Significance ◽

P Value ◽

Sources Of Information ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Level Of Knowledge

Background: Efficient project management suffices that decision makers are adequately informed on the impacts of their actions and inactions on the environment. Objective: To explore the knowledge of environmental impact assessment (EIA) among undergraduates of the faculty of environmental sciences in a university in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was a cross sectional survey of 350 undergraduates selected via multistage sampling technique. Data were obtained using self- administered semi-structured questionnaires, and analysed using statistical package for social sciences software version 22. Statistical significance were done using Chi-square test at p value < 0.05. Results: Two hundred and eighteen (62.3%) respondents reported awareness of EIA and cited their sources of information on EIA as 111(50.6%) schools, 109 (50%) textbooks, etc. Only (12.6%) out of 350 respondents had good level of knowledge on EIA. Fifty one (14.6%) out of 350 respondents reported ever participated in EIA process, while 34 (9.7%) were participating in EIA process currently. The level of knowledge of EIA process among respondents significantly vary with [gender, p=0.002) and marital status, p= 0.032)] respectively. Conclusions: This study found apparently poor awareness of EIA, poor knowledge of EIA and poor participation in the EIA process. The level of knowledge on EIA vary significantly with gender and marital status. We recommend comprehensive but targeted, need- based environmental education to help create awareness, impart knowledge and equip these students with EIA strategies and skills to handle environmental challenges.

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Prevalence and Associated Factors of Thinness among Adolescent Students in Finoteselam Town, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

10.21203/rs.2.19239/v1 ◽

2019 ◽

Author(s):

Damitie Kebede Mengesha ◽

Reddy P. C. J. Prasad ◽

Degnet Teferi Asres

Keyword(s):

Associated Factors ◽

Statistical Significance ◽

Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis ◽

Simple Random Sampling ◽

Physical Growth ◽

P Value ◽

Amhara Region ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Factors Associated ◽

Adolescent Students

Abstract Background Adolescence is the period of intense physical, psychosocial and cognitive development and the second to infancy at which highest rate of physical growth occur. So, adolescents need to have good quantity and quality nutrient to cope with this rapid growth and other health risk which increase nutritional demand. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of thinness among school adolescents in Finoteselam town, Amhara region, Ethiopia.Methods A school-based cross-sectional study among adolescent students aged 10-19 in public primary and secondary schools was carried out in Finoteselam town from February 05 to March 27, 2018. A total of 397 adolescent students were included in the study. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were employed to select study subjects. Pre tested structured questionnaires were used to collect the data. Data was entered using Epi info version 7 and analyzed using SPSS version 20 and WHO Anthro Plus soft ware. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with stunting. Crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% level significance were used to measure the strength of association and statistical significance was declared at p-value less than 0.05.Results The prevalence of thinness among adolescents was 14.9%. Early Adolescent stage (AOR= 4.81; 95% CI: 1.23, 18.51), being Male adolescent students (AOR = 2.33; 95% CI: 1.60, 3.40), and using well water (AOR= 3.82; 95% CI: 1.46, 10.04) were significantly associated with thinness at P-value <0.05.Conclusion The study revealed that prevalence of thinness was high in the study area. Age, Sex and sources of drinking water were found to be important factors associated with thinness among the respondents.

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Overall Effects of Risk Factors Associated with Dental Caries Indices Using the Marginalized Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial Model

Caries Research ◽

10.1159/000498892 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 53 (5) ◽

pp. 541-546

Author(s):

Enayatollah Bakhshi ◽

Mohammad Ali Yazdanipour ◽

Mehdi Rahgozar ◽

Zahra Ghorbani ◽

Marzieh Deghatipour

Keyword(s):

Risk Factors ◽

Negative Binomial ◽

Healthcare Services ◽

Permanent Teeth ◽

P Value ◽

Background Characteristics ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Factors Associated ◽

Rate Ratios

The purpose of this paper is to identify risk factors for decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT) in a population of 12–15-year-old schoolchildren and to apply the marginalized zero-inflated negative binomial (MZINB) model for determination and estimation of the overall effects of the risk factors. A cross-sectional survey comprising 764 students aged between 12 and 15 years was used to analyze the association between caries in children and some background characteristics in children and their parents. Information on the samples’ social, behavioral, and demographic status was obtained through a series of closed questions. The incidence rate ratios (IRR) were used to associate some risk factors with caries. In the entire sample, the frequency of zero was 194 (25.4%). The result of the shared-parameter marginalized zero-inflated negative binomial (SP-MZINB) model showed that being a girl (IRR = 1.18; p value = 0.021), higher dental visits frequency (IRR = 1.20; p value <0.001), lower tooth brushing frequency (IRR = 0.91; p value = 0.019), higher flossing frequency (IRR = 1.11; p value = 0.001), and lower mothers’ education (IRR = 0.89; p value = 0.042) are associated with DMFT. Our results may provide better insights of the factors associated with DMFT, and health programs should focus their efforts on healthcare services, for both preventive and curative purposes. This regression model provides an appropriate ﬁt and meaningful interpretation to handling zero-inflated count outcomes. Also, it provides direct estimates of the effects of risk factors on the overall mean that does not require postmodeling computations.

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Prevalence and factors associated with fatigue in the Lausanne middle-aged population: a population-based, cross-sectional survey

BMJ Open ◽

10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027070 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 9 (8) ◽

pp. e027070 ◽

Cited By ~ 6

Author(s):

Coralie Galland-Decker ◽

Pedro Marques-Vidal ◽

Peter Vollenweider

Keyword(s):

General Population ◽

Sleep Disturbances ◽

Handgrip Strength ◽

Multivariable Analysis ◽

Population Based ◽

Bivariate Analysis ◽

P Value ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Factors Associated

ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence and factors associated with fatigue in the general population.DesignPopulation-based, cross-sectional survey performed between May 2014 and April 2017.SettingGeneral population of the city of Lausanne, Switzerland.Participants2848 participants (53.2% women, age range 45–86 years).Primary outcome measurePrevalence of fatigue the previous week, defined as a score of ≥4 using the Fatigue Severity Scale.ResultsThe prevalence of fatigue was 21.9% (95% CI 20.4% to 23.4%) in the total sample. On bivariate analysis, participants with fatigue were younger, had a higher body mass index, a lower handgrip strength and lower ferritin levels. Participants with fatigue were more frequently women, had a lower educational level, presented more frequently with clinical insomnia, diabetes, anaemia, depression and low thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) values, had a higher consumption of antihistamines, antidepressants and hypnotics, and rated more frequently their health as bad or very bad. Multivariable analysis showed that obesity (OR 1.40 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.91)), insomnia categories (p value for trend <0.001), depression (OR 3.26 (95% CI 2.38 to 4.46)), anaemia (OR 1.70 (95% CI 1.00 to 2.89)) and low self-rated health status (p value for trend <0.001) were positively associated with fatigue, while older age (p value for trend 0.002) was negatively associated with fatigue. Conversely, no association was found for diabetes, TSH levels, antihistamines or hypnotics.ConclusionIn a population-based sample aged 45–86, fatigue was present in one out of five subjects. Regarding clinical factors, sleep disturbances such as insomnia and sleep apnoea should be assessed first, followed by depression. Regarding biological factors, anaemia should be ruled out, while screening for hypothyroidism is not recommended as a first step. Sleep complaints and fatigue in older subjects are not due to ageing and should prompt identification of the underlying cause.

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A preliminary study of skin bleaching and factors associated with skin bleaching among women living in Zimbabwe

African Health Sciences ◽

10.4314/ahs.v21i1.18 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 21 (1) ◽

pp. 132-9

Author(s):

Princess Nyoni-Kachambwa ◽

Wanapa Naravage ◽

Nigel F James ◽

Marc Van der Putten

Keyword(s):

Public Health Research ◽

P Value ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Factors Associated ◽

Skin Bleaching ◽

Light Skin ◽

Cosmetic Industry ◽

The Subject ◽

Self Administered Questionnaire

Background: Skin bleaching was reported to be commonly practiced among women and Africa was reported to be one of the most affected yet the subject is not given much attention in public health research in Zimbabwe despite the adverse effects of skin bleaching on health. Method: This study was an exploratory cross-sectional survey to explore skin bleaching, skin bleaching patterns and factors associated with skin bleaching among women living in Zimbabwe. An online self-administered questionnaire was sent out to women on social network i.e. WhatsApp, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Findings: A total number of 260 respondents, mean age 31.69 (SD, 8.12) years participated in the survey. The prevalence of skin bleaching among the participants was 31.15%. The major reason reported for skin bleaching was to have smooth and healthy skin alongside other factors such as beauty, gaining social favours for example getting married and good jobs. Occupation, complexion and marital status were associated with skin bleaching. The odds of skin bleaching for participants who were employed was 1.45(95% confidence interval [CI],0.32-1.91);p-value 0.02, dark skinned participants 2.56(95% CI, 0.76-2.87);p-value 0.01 and unmarried participants 2.87(95% CI,0.29-3.58);p-value 0.03. Conclusion: Evidence from the research suggests skin bleaching might be common among women living in Zimbabwe and possibly poses serious health threats to the women. Skin bleaching seems to be deep rooted in colourism. The colourism seems to be taken advantage of by the cosmetic industry which produce the potentially hazardous products which promise the revered light skin to women but which comes with a price. However, the study provides a base for future studies to ex- plore more on skin bleaching practices among women living in Zimbabwe. Keywords: Skin bleaching; skin bleaching products; women; Zimbabwe.

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FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CLINICAL DETERIORATION RECOGNIZED BY AN EARLY WARNING PEDIATRIC SCORE

Texto & Contexto - Enfermagem ◽

10.1590/1980-265x-tce-2018-0348 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 29 ◽

Author(s):

Juliana de Oliveira Freitas Miranda ◽

Climene Laura de Camargo ◽

Carlito Lopes Nascimento Sobrinho ◽

Daniel Sales Portela ◽

Paloma de Sousa Pinho ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Respiratory Disease ◽

Early Warning ◽

Statistical Significance ◽

Prevalence Ratio ◽

Clinical Deterioration ◽

Early Warning Score ◽

P Value ◽

Emergency Unit ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Factors Associated

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the factors associated with clinical deterioration recognized by a Pediatric Early Warning Score. Method: A cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary pediatric public hospital with 271 children aged from zero to ten, hospitalized between May and October 2015. For the identification of the children with and without signs of clinical deterioration, the translated, adapted and validated version of the Brighton Pediatric Early Warning Score was applied to the Brazilian context. Logistic regression analysis and prevalence ratio (PR) were used to measure the association between the variables studied. A 95% Confidence Interval (CI) and p value were adopted as a measure of statistical significance to identify potential associated factors. Results: The factors associated with the clinical deterioration of the children studied were age ≤ 2 years old (p=0.000), hospitalization in the emergency unit (p=0.000), comorbidity (p=0.020) and clinical diagnosis of respiratory disease (p=0.000). Conclusion: Children ≤ 2 years old, with comorbidity, diagnosed with respiratory disease and hospitalized in the emergency unit showed an increased likelihood of clinical deterioration. The identification of factors associated with clinical deterioration may alert and direct the health team to children more susceptible to this phenomenon.

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Pharmacy Students Perceptions of Their Distance Online Learning Experience During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development ◽

10.1177/2382120520963039 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 7 ◽

pp. 238212052096303 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

Mohammad S Shawaqfeh ◽

Abdulkareem M Al Bekairy ◽

Ahmad Al-Azayzih ◽

Abdulmalik A Alkatheri ◽

Amjad M Qandil ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Online Learning ◽

Online Education ◽

Learning Experience ◽

Statistical Significance ◽

Strong Association ◽

Survey Study ◽

P Value ◽

Attitude Score ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic imposed dramatic changes on educational practices worldwide. Many universities and schools have moved into the delivery of their courses and educational programs utilizing fully electronic online modes. This study aims to evaluate the pharmacy student distance online learning experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was utilized where a 3-domain survey questionnaire focused on preparedness, attitude and barriers was distributed to students at the time of conclusion of the semester. Each domain consists of multiple questions that made up a score that reflects their preparedness, attitude as well as barriers relevant to distance online learning experience. The survey was voluntarily, and all data were collected and recorded via google forms with maintaining anonymity. Results: The response rate was about 75% (n = 309). The results’ analysis revealed no gender differences in any of these domains. However, there were some variable responses among different educational levels. The average preparedness score was 32.8 ± 7.2 (Max 45), the average attitude score was 66.8 ± 16.6 (Max 105), and the average barrier score was 43.6 ± 12.0 (Max 75). There was statistical significance difference in both preparedness score and attitude scores between different professional years ( P-value <.05). However, there was no difference in barrier scores among all professional years. The results indicated that about 61.4% of the students agreed on that college of pharmacy was well-prepared and ready for the online education during the emerging COVID-19 pandemic with complete transition into online education. The results also indicated that 49.2% of the students showed positive attitude toward the provided online learning. The results indicated that about 34% of the students identify some barriers toward the provided online learning. Finally, there were strong association between the need for training on how to receive online courses and preparedness and barriers scores. Discussion and conclusion: E-learning experience pose challenges and presents opportunities during emergency situations. The need for training for students and faculty was highly associated with the preparedness and barriers domains rather than the infrastructure or computer literacy, so the school can improve their experience by addressing these needs.

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