Vol 13 Issue 1 April 2025-September 2025

Abstract: This research study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward antenatal care (ANC) among pregnant women attending Masaka, Muhima, and Kibagabaga District Hospitals in Kigali, Rwanda. Although ANC is vital for preventing complications during pregnancy, global and local gaps in adequate ANC attendance persist. In Rwanda, while nearly all pregnant women attend at least one ANC visit, less than half complete the recommended four visits. Using a cross-sectional design and systematic sampling, 420 women participated through structured face-to-face interviews. Results showed that 61.2% had adequate knowledge and 56.4% held positive attitudes toward ANC, yet only 23.1% demonstrated good practices. Women aged 26–40, those employed, and those making joint decisions with spouses were more likely to have better knowledge and attitudes. Secondary education was strongly linked to good practices. Despite generally good awareness and perceptions, actual ANC practices were inadequate. The study concludes that improving knowledge alone is insufficient; targeted interventions, improved service access, and promoting shared household decision-making are essential to increase full ANC attendance and enhance maternal and child health outcomes in Rwanda’s urban settings.

Keywords: KAP, Antenatal Care, Pregnant Women, City of Kigali.

Title: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices toward Antenatal Care among Pregnant Women in the City of Kigali

Author: Mr. Olivier Welcome, Dr. Michael Habtu Fissehaye

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 441-458

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 11-July-2025

Abstract: Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological sensory motor disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by discomfort such as tingling, burning, or aching. These symptoms primarily manifest during rest or inactivity, particularly in the evening or night. In India, RLS prevalence varies among different populations, with a reported 8.36% occurrence among adolescents and young adults, significantly higher than the 2.1% observed in the general urban population. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of the positional release technique on pain and symptom severity in patients with Restless Legs Syndrome.

Methodology: A single-group experimental pre-post study was conducted with 15 participants aged 20–50 years, selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The intervention was conducted over six months, with treatment sessions lasting 25 minutes per day, three days per week for six weeks. Pain intensity and symptom severity were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and the International Restless Legs Syndrome Severity Rating Questionnaire (IRLS), respectively.

Result: The statistical analysis revealed a significant reduction in pain and symptom severity following the intervention. The pre- and post-test comparisons showed a notable improvement in scores on both the IRLS (t = 3.5775) and the NPRS (t = 4.0000), indicating the efficacy of the positional release technique in managing RLS symptoms.

Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that the positional release technique is an effective therapeutic approach for reducing pain and symptom severity in patients with Restless Legs Syndrome.

Keywords: Restless Legs Syndrome, Positional Release Technique, International Restless Legs Syndrome Severity Rating Questionnaire, Numeric Pain Rating Scale.

Title: EVALUATE THE IMPACT OF POSITIONAL RELEASE TECHNIQUE ON PAIN AND SYMPTOM SEVERITY IN RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME PATIENTS

Author: Nithyasri N, Manoj Abraham Manoharlal, Swetha Govindharaj

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 433-440

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 11-July-2025

Abstract: This research investigated the prevalence and determinants of birth asphyxia at Rwamagana Level II Teaching Hospital in Rwanda’s Eastern Province. Using a cross-sectional design, 340 maternal delivery records from May 2022 to May 2023 were analyzed with SPSS version 23. The study found that 37.9% of neonates suffered birth asphyxia, while 62.1% did not. Key risk factors identified include low maternal education, with uneducated mothers being about 2.7 times more likely to have a baby with asphyxia. Maternal weight below 50 kg increased risk nearly ninefold, while babies under 2500 grams were about three times more likely to experience asphyxia. Other significant factors were maternal hypertension, anemia, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, placental abruption, and vaginal delivery. Though oxytocin augmentation showed an increased risk, it was not statistically significant. The study highlights the urgent need to address modifiable risks through better prenatal education, nutritional support, and strengthened antenatal care services to reduce birth asphyxia rates and improve neonatal survival in low-resource settings.

Keywords: Prevalence, Birth Asphyxia, Rwamagana Level II Teaching Hospital, Rwanda.

Title: Prevalence and Factors Associated with Birth Asphyxia at Rwamagana Level II Teaching Hospital, Eastern Province, Rwanda

Author: Ms. Mukobwa Justine, Dr. Charles Nsanzabera

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 416-432

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 10-July-2025

Abstract: Background: Neonatal hypothermia is a global health concern contributing significantly to neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings. This study assessed factors associated with neonatal hypothermia at Murunda District Hospital, Rwanda.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 124 mothers whose neonates were admitted to the neonatal unit at Murunda District Hospital. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and observational checklists. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used to analyze factors associated with neonatal hypothermia. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Neonatal hypothermia prevalence was 67.7%. Multivariate analysis revealed that maternal education and time of delivery were independently associated with neonatal hypothermia. Neonates born to mothers with no schooling (OR = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.18–0.75), primary (OR = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.20–0.69), and secondary education (OR = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.20–0.97) were more likely to be hypothermic compared to those whose mothers had university-level education. Additionally, night-time delivery was associated with increased odds of hypothermia (OR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.15–0.94).

Conclusion: Maternal education and time of delivery are significant predictors of neonatal hypothermia. Addressing these factors through targeted education and improved delivery practices during night shifts may reduce neonatal hypothermia in rural Rwandan settings. Neonatal hypothermia is multifactorial, influenced by maternal, environmental, and behavioral factors. Improved adherence to WHO thermal protection guidelines is needed to reduce the burden.

Keywords: Neonatal hypothermia, thermal care, maternal factors, Rwanda, newborn health.

Title: Factors Associated with Neonatal Hypothermia at Murunda District Hospital, Rwanda: A Cross-Sectional Study

Author: Daphrose NYIRAHABIYAREMYE, Clemence NISHIMWE, Ancille MUREKATETE

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 409-415

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 08-July-2025

Abstract: Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSA) is a respiratory sleep disorder characterized by partial or complete recurrent episodes of upper airway collapse that occur during night. The upper airway is compliant tube and therefore is subjected to collapse. The aim and objective of the study is to find out the effects of Oro-Myofunctional Therapy and Breathing Retraining on snoring, daytime sleepiness, and Quality of Sleep in patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) by using Berlin Questionnaire and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). There was a significant difference between the pre- therapy and post-therapy scores when evaluated with Berlin Questionnaire – A statistically significant improvement was obtained in Group B which received Oro-Myofunctional Therapy along with Breathing Retraining for OSA (Unpaired ‘t’ value – 4.007 ‘p’ value-<0.002) and PSQI - B with (Unpaired ‘t’ value -4.69 ‘p’ value-<0.001). The study concludes that the group which received both Oro-Myofunctional Therapy along with Breathing Retraining showed significant improvement when compared to the other group which received Oro-Myofunctional therapy alone.

Keywords: Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), Berlin Questionnaire, Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Oro-Myofunctional Therapy, Breathing Retraining.

Title: EFFECTS OF ORO-MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY ALONG WITH BREATHING RETRAINING ON SEVERITY AND QUALITY OF SLEEP IN PATIENTS WITH MILD TO MODERATE OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNOEA (OSA)

Author: Kirthika Ponnusamy, Manoj Abraham Manoharlal, Shubhakarini Loganathan                              

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 403-408

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 07-July-2025

Abstract: This study explored the level of adherence to cervical cancer screening (CCS)and identify the underlying factors contributing to non-adherence among women of reproductive age attending Masaka and Kibagabaga Hospitals in Kigali. A quantitative data collection approach was used to provide a comprehensive understanding of cervical cancer screening adherence and explore associated factors. A structured questionnaire was developed.  Participants were women aged 25-49 attending outpatient services at Masaka and Kibagabaga Hospitals, A total of 384 women participated in the survey, data were collected between June 2024 and August 2024 at Masaka and Kibagabaga Hospitals and the study found that 36% of participants had undergone cervical cancer screening and 69.8% of those screened continued with regular follow up. the findings suggest that improving education, access to screening and follow-up care is essential to increasing cervical cancer screening adherences in Kigali.

Keywords: Cervical cancer, adherence, Screening, Cervical Cancer Adherence.

Title: Adherence of cervical cancer screening among women of reproductive age attending Masaka and Kibagabaga Hospitals of Kigali, Rwanda – Quantitative Study

Author: Dukuzumuremyi Fabrice, Umukwiye Adjira, Banamwana Celestin

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 395-402

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 07-July-2025

Abstract: This study investigated latrine uptake and hygiene practices among community households in Ruhango District, Rwanda, focusing on the key factors that influence these behaviors. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 216 households via structured questionnaires to explore how socio-economic status, cultural beliefs, gender roles, and community engagement affect sanitation habits.

Findings revealed that although 74% of households had access to latrines, only 60% reported consistent uptake. Handwashing after latrine use was practiced by 68% of respondents, with better adherence (80%) among those with reliable water access. Economic hardship emerged as a major barrier, with 42% of households unable to afford latrine construction. Additionally, 48% reported water shortages as a challenge to maintaining hygiene. Cultural beliefs negatively impacted sanitation behaviors in 30% of households.

Statistical analysis showed significant associations between hygiene practices and factors such as income (p = 0.009), education (p = 0.006), household size (p = 0.042), and age (p = 0.033). A strong correlation was found between a positive attitude toward hygiene and improved practices (OR = 3.7, p < 0.001). Community support and water access also significantly influenced behavior (p = 0.010 and p = 0.005, respectively). Most participants acknowledged the role of traditional beliefs and recognized the health risks linked to poor sanitation.

The study concluded that despite relatively high latrine availability, consistent uptake remains low due to economic, environmental, and cultural barriers. It recommended that government agencies, including the Ministry of Health and local authorities, prioritize enhancing water access, offering subsidies for latrine construction, and expanding hygiene education. Emphasis was placed on the importance of culturally sensitive programs and community involvement to promote sustained hygiene improvements.

These findings, aligning with the 2020 Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey, underscore the need for integrated interventions addressing infrastructure, behavior change, and socio-cultural factors to improve community sanitation outcomes in Ruhango District.

Keywords: Latrine Uptake, Hygiene Practices, Community Households, Ruhango District, Rwanda.

Title: Determinants of Latrine Uptake and Hygiene Practices in Community Households of Ruhango District, Rwanda

Author: Ms. Umuhoza Elyse, Dr. HABIMANA Amos

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 377-394

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 07-July-2025

Abstract: Background: Malaria remains a significant global health challenge, with an estimated 241 million cases and 627,000 deaths reported in 2020. Children under five years of age are the most vulnerable group, accounting for approximately 80% of malaria-related mortality. In Rwanda’s Bugesera District, over 80,000 malaria cases were recorded in 2020, of which 38% occurred among children under five. Despite national prevention efforts, malaria continues to pose a major threat in endemic areas such as Nyamata.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of malaria infection among children under five years of age attending Nyamata District Hospital, with the goal of informing more targeted interventions.

Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 396 mothers of hospitalized under-five children, selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 23. Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression were applied to determine associations between potential risk factors and malaria infection, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The prevalence of malaria infection among under-five children was 14.6% (58/396), significantly lower than the district average of 38% and the >30% typical in high-transmission regions of sub-Saharan Africa. Malaria infection was significantly associated with proximity to rivers (AOR = 0.406; p = 0.004) and the presence of stagnant water in household storage containers (AOR = 0.025; p = 0.001). Use of insecticide-treated bed nets (AOR = 5.631; p = 0.613) and indoor residual spraying (AOR = 9.706; p = 0.225) were not statistically significant, possibly due to inconsistent use or insecticide resistance. Household income (p = 0.004) and limited access to healthcare (AOR = 13.074; p = 0.061) also influenced malaria risk.

Conclusion: The study highlights the continued risk of malaria among under-five children in Nyamata, driven primarily by environmental and socioeconomic factors. Integrated malaria control strategies that emphasize environmental management, community awareness, improved healthcare access, and equitable distribution of prevention tools are crucial. These findings can support policymakers and health authorities in designing more effective, context-specific malaria interventions in Rwanda and similar settings.  

Keywords: (MeSH):  Prevalence, Malaria Infections, Under Five-Year-Old Children, Nyamata District Hospital, Rwanda.

Title: The Prevalence and Factors Associated with Malaria Infections among the Under Five-Year-Old Children Attending Nyamata District Hospital, Rwanda

Author: Consolatrice NAKURE, Amos HABIMANA

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 363-376

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 03-July-2025

Abstract: Purpose: To compare the operation situation and therapeutic effect of single-port laparoscopic appendectomy and traditional three-port laparoscopic appendectomy with conventional instruments.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on patients diagnosed with acute appendicitis who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy from 2023 to 2024. Among them, 82 patients underwent single-port laparoscopic appendectomy. Among the patients who underwent traditional three-port laparoscopic appendectomy, 82 cases were selected as the control group using propensity matching. Collect the preoperative and intraoperative conditions of the two groups and compare the two groups, postoperative recovery, incision infection rate, and residual abdominal infection.

Results: Preoperative conditions of the two groups [age, sex, anesthesia risk score (ASA), body mass index (BMI), admission. There were no significant differences in body temperature, white blood cell count, days of abdominal pain, concomitant diseases, and previous history of abdominal surgery]. A slightly higher proportion of complicated appendicitis (32.9%) was observed in the single-port group, and in the three-port group (25.6%), but the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.303). The average operation time of the single-port group (76.3 ± 32.9) min was significantly longer than that of the three-port group (59.5 ± 28.9) min (P=0.001), 6 cases were converted to three-port surgery. There was no conversion to laparotomy in both groups.

The postoperative eating time, days of antibiotic use, and days of hospitalization in the single-port group were significantly lower than those in the three-port group. There was no significant difference in wound infection rate and abdominal residual infection rate between the two groups.

Conclusion: Single-port laparoscopic appendectomy compared with traditional surgery three-port laparoscopic appendectomy, there is no increase in postoperative infection rate. However, in the treatment of complicated appendicitis, its clinical significance needs to be confirmed by more studies.

Keywords: single port; three-port, abdominal appendectomy; acute appendicitis.

Title: Clinical Comparison of Single-Port and Three-Port Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Author: TCHOMTE ROMEO MARTIAL, TCHUBESSI ERIC CHRISTIAN, LETTA ABBEH NYAMSI VIVIANE

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 359-362

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 02-July-2025

Abstract: Background: HIV counselling and testing (HCT) is crucial for HIV epidemic control, as knowledge of HIV-positive status facilitates treatment initiation. The Rwanda Population-based HIV Impact Assessment reported that only 70% of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) knew their HIV status. This study examined factors associated with HCT uptake among females aged 15–24 years in Nyarugenge district, Kigali. Methods: Data were randomly collected from 296 AGYW on demographics, HIV testing history, knowledge, and risk behaviors. Odds ratios for ever being tested for HIV were computed using STATA 17. Results: Among participants, 61.8% had ever tested for HIV; 65.9% tested in the past 12 months. Secondary or higher education [aOR=2.2; 95% CI:1.1–4.6], awareness of sexual transmission [aOR=8.2; 95% CI:1.3–50.4], and receiving HIV information from healthcare providers [aOR=4.1; 95% CI:2.1–8.1] increased testing likelihood. Students were less likely to test compared to employed peers [aOR=2.4; 95% CI:1.1–5.3]. Conclusion: HIV testing uptake remains suboptimal among AGYW. Targeted education and enhanced healthcare provider communication in schools are recommended to improve testing rates.

Keywords: Adolescent, Young women, Voluntary Counseling and Testing, Determinants, Age-disparate sex.

Title: Factors Influencing Low Uptake of HIV Counselling and Testing Services among Females Aged Between 15 To 24 Years in Nyarugenge District, Kigali, Rwanda

Author: Isimbi Karambizi Aurore, Dr.  Onwana Kevin, Michael Habtu

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 349-358

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 02-July-2025

Abstract: Introduction: Historically, the standard approach to clinically node-positive breast cancer is with axillary lymph node dissection.  However, this has been associated with higher surgical complications and long-term symptomatic risks of lymphedema, seroma, limited mobility in that extremity, and neuropathy which can greatly lessen quality of life. Currently, randomized controlled trials examining the question of whether neoadjuvant therapy can decrease the need for axillary lymph node dissection are ongoing.  However, guidelines still recommend upfront systemic therapy for clinically node-positive disease to permit for less extensive surgery on the axilla based on data from other trials.

Objective: This study was aimed at assessing the nodal response to anthracycline based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin/adriamycin and 5-flourouracil (CAF) regimen).

Methodology: This is a 3 year prospective study carried out at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku-Awka. The study span from January, 2021 to December, 2023. All the premenopausal patients with confirmed node positive breast carcinoma who gave their consent were recruited for the study. They were given 4 courses of CAF at 3 weekly interval. The regimen consisted of: cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m², Doxorubucin 50 mg/m², and 5-Fluorouracil 500 mg/m² all were given on day one. The axillary nodes were assessed before and after the 4^th course of chemotherapy.

Results: A total of 147 female patients were recruited. The age of the study population ranged from 24 to 54 years with a mean of 40.92±7.98 years. The pre-chemotherapy nodal stages were: 60(40.8%) of the patients, N₁ according to AJCC (TNM) staging, 78(53.1%) were classified as N₂ and 9(6.1%) were N₃. After 4^th course of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, the nodal status of majority of the patients was down staged to N₀ 51(34.7%), N₁ 66(44.9%), N₂ 27(18.4%) and 3(2.0%) was N₃. The clinical complete response rate cCR in this study in relation to nodal status was 34.7%.

Conclusion: The above findings demonstrated the ability of neoadjuvant chemotherapy to transform clinically node-positive breast cancers to node-negative stage. 

Keywords: Breast cancer, Response, Axillary node, Chemotherapy, Neoadjuvant.

Title: AXILLARY NODAL RESPONSE TO NEOADJUVANT ANTHRACYCLINE BASED CHEMOTHERAPY IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS

Author: Madubogwu, Chimezie Innocent.

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 345-348

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 01-July-2025

Abstract: Stroke is a prominent cause of mortality and disability worldwide. The process of stroke recovery is mainly compromised by stroke severity. Restoration of synaptic connections, neuroplasticity and reparative angiogenesis are crucial for the brain’s ability to remap neurons to damaged areas during post-stroke recovery. Diabetes is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and alterations of metabolic function. Insulin receptor signaling pathways are essential parts in activation of synaptic plasticity mechanisms and insulin itself promotes formation of neural circuits after brain injury. Poor insulin signaling due to diabetes can contribute to decreased axonal sprouting and synaptogenesis resulting in poor recovery. Additionally, cerebral endothelial dysfunction caused by diabetes exacerbates existing cerebral microvascular lesions and cognitive decline. While the pathological state of microglia in the inflammatory response can increase neuronal degeneration and blood brain barrier dysfunction that could affect post-stroke cognitive impairment. This review serves to compile the foundational basis of the current correlation between stroke recovery and diabetes. Further research in this field is still needed to create better understanding of the underlying mechanisms for effective treatment of stroke recovery.

Keywords:  Stroke recovery; Diabetes; Pathophysiology; Correlation.

Title: Poor Outcome In Stroke Recovery As A Result Of Pathophysiological Changes From Diabetes Mellitus: A Brief Summary

Author: Natida Chayawatto

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 335-344

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 26-June-2025

Abstract: In modern times, Thailand, as well as most of the world, are developing into an increasingly aged society. The population of the elderly are taking up more of the percentile of the overall populations. As such, more care and attention should be taken to ensuring the wellbeing of this particular group of society. Senescence is a condition that naturally comes with aging, and it causes many complications in bone healing including but not limited to lower granulation tissue density, reduced vascular density, and heightened risks in non-union and other comorbidities independent of the initial wound. In accordance with the aforementioned conditions, there have been many studies regarding methods to aid in reducing such complications. Some studies aimed to improve treatment by reducing the risks of comorbidities, while other studies tested on subjects, like mice, to find ways to counter the effects of senescence directly. However, such studies are often limited by the sample size or the nature of its recipient itself which may prove difficult to translate the full degree of such studies to the general public. As such, it is advised that increased efforts be put into furthering these studies in the future.

Keywords: Senescence, bone healing, elderly, treatment of senescence.

Title: A Compilation of Effects of Senescence on Bone Healing and the Treatment Plans Regarding Such Effects

Author: Naruedi Chayawatto

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 329-334

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 26-June-2025

Abstract: Globally, regionally in Africa, adolescent pregnancy and parenting pose serious global public health concerns, particularly affecting the mental health of teenage mothers which may result to depression, stressed and if not prevented and controlled, may lead to a suicide manner of death. In Rwanda, 5% of adolescent girls aged 15–19 have begun childbearing, with Muhanga District reporting the highest rate at 12%. Among adolescent mothers attending secondary schools in this district, the prevalence of social and cultural factors influencing mental health disorders is  48.9%. However, little is known about the same study in Muhanga District. This led to a study of Social-Cultural Factors Influencing Mental Health among Pregnancy and Parenting Adolescent Mothers Attending Secondary Schools in Muhanga District, specifically determining the main social-cultural factors influencing mental health among teenage girls and assess how Knowledge, attitude and practice of the study population influence the increased teenager pregnant and mental health in Muhanga district.The study is descriptive cross-sectional, used mixed-methods approach, of surveys and interviews on targeted adolescent mothers aged 15–19. Learning in secondary schools, Sampling techniques used were Purposive and snowball, with a sample size of 235 determined by Fisher’s formula (1998). Data was managed by SPSS version and analysed by cross tabulation of descriptive and inferential statistics in interviews was by thematic analysis reaching saturation and written as a caption. Results showed that majority of respondent was 52%, (158), were 19 years old. The study revealed that 60.9% (164), of adolescent mothers had limited sex reproductive health information from the school environment with significant value, p values 0.028), social-cultural factors influencing teenager mental health was significant with 95CI and, p < 0.031), unsupportive school environments (χ² = 133.88, df = 4, p < 0.001), difficulties balancing school and parenting responsibilities. The results from Knowledge Attitudes and Practices showed that The  majorityof teenage girls had limited  awareness on mental health issues, 50.2%(118), need improved counselling services  49%,  (115),

Keywords: Sociocultural, Adolescent pregnancy, mental health and secondary schools.

Title: Social-Cultural Factors Influencing Mental Health Among Pregnant and Parenting Adolescent Mothers Attending Secondary Schools in Muhanga District, Rwanda

Author: Umugwaneza Marie Alice, Maurice B. Silali

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 319-328

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 26-June-2025

Abstract: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) frequently co-occur, and their relationship involves overlapping clinical features and intertwined pathophysiological mechanisms. SCH –defined by elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) with normal thyroid hormone levels – is common, affecting roughly 3–8% of the general population (up to 20% in the elderly). Depression is a well recognized neuropsychiatric manifestation of thyroid dysfunction. Recent studies in the past decade suggest that even mild thyroid impairment may influence mood disorders: patients with SCH have an increased prevalence of depressive symptoms, although findings are mixed regarding causality. Biochemical pathways linking the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis and monoamine systems provide a possible mechanism for this association. Clinically, the symptom overlap between MDD and SCH can complicate diagnosis, underscoring the importance of thyroid function screening in depressive patients. Treatment interactions are also significant – untreated SCH may hinder antidepressant response, whereas thyroid hormone supplementation (levothyroxine or liothyronine) can augment depression treatment in select cases. This concise review synthesizes recent evidence on the complex MDD–SCH relationship, emphasizing biochemical links, diagnostic challenges, and treatment implications for improved clinical decision-making.

Keywords: Major Depressive Disorder, subclinical hypothyroidism, relationship, phycology.

Title: Major Depressive Disorder and Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Complex Relationship with Clinical Implications

Author: Dr. Moosa Jeded S Alenazi

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025

Page No: 313-318

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 25-June-2025