Vol 14 Issue 1 April 2026-September 2026

Abstract: Functional foods are specialized foods having extra-nutritional functions. Functional foods are indeed specialized foods that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. They contain biologically active compounds, such as fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and phytochemicals, that support optimal health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases when consumed regularly as part of a varied diet They can be natural (like blueberries or whole grains) or fortified/enriched (like iron-fortified cereal or yogurt with live cultures) and are consumed as part of a regular diet for specific physiological benefits. A food can be regarded as functional if it is satisfactorily demonstrated to affect beneficially one or more target functions in the body, beyond adequate nutritional effects, in a way which is relevant to either the state of well-being and health or the reduction of the risk of a disease. A food can be made functional by increasing the concentration, adding or improving the bioavailability of a particular component. Functional food science will serve to establish claims based either on enhanced function or disease risk reduction. Functional foods play an important role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk factors of various diseases. Most foods have a functional element which is responsible for improving the healthy state. All food substances such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, meat, fish, dairy contain functional ingredients. A wide range of naturally occurring substances from plant and animal sources having active components which play a role in physiological actions deserve attention for their optimal use in maintaining health.

Keywords: Functional foods, biologically active compounds, bioavailability, antioxidants, healthy lifestyle.

Title: Functional Foods for Human Health and Management of Diseases -A Review

Author: Dr. CHITHRA.V

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 246-258

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 18-June-2026

Abstract: Newborn birth asphyxia remains a leading cause of newborn morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-income settings like Rwanda. This research targeted to assess the prevalence, trends, and factors associated with newborn birth asphyxia among live births at Kiziguro District Hospital from 2023 to 2025, providing evidence to improve neonatal outcomes and guide interventions. A retrospective design using secondary data from delivery and neonatal registers was employed, with data analyzed in version 26 of SPSS using descriptive statistics, trend analysis, and logistic regression (p < 0.05). Most mothers were aged 18–33 years, had primary/secondary education, attended 2–4 ANC visits, and had no complications; most deliveries were vaginal with normal birth weight. Births increased over time. The prevalence of neonatal birth asphyxia was 12.4% at 1 minute after birth. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified several independent predictors. Newborn d with meconium-stained amniotic fluid at their birth were significantly more likely to develop asphyxia (AOR = 4.8; 95% CI: 3.9–5.9). Other significant factors included obstetric complications (AOR = 3.5; 95% CI: 2.8–4.3), low birth weight (AOR = 3.2; 95% CI: 2.6–3.9), and prolonged labor (>12 hours) (AOR = 2.9; 95% CI: 2.4–3.5). Additionally, cesarean and assisted deliveries, inadequate antenatal care visits (0–2) (AOR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.7–2.6), and referral status (AOR = 1.5; 95% CI: 1.2–1.9) were significantly associated with increased odds of birth asphyxia. The prevalence of neonatal birth asphyxia at Kiziguro District Hospital is relatively high. Key predictors include meconium-stained amniotic fluid, obstetric complications, low birth weight, prolonged labor, inadequate antenatal care, and referral status. Strengthening antenatal care services, improving intrapartum monitoring, and ensuring timely obstetric interventions are critical to reducing the burden of neonatal birth asphyxia.

Keywords: Prevalence, Neonatal Birth, Asphyxia, Live Births, Kiziguro District Hospital, Rwanda.

Title: Prevalence and Factors Associated with Neonatal Birth Asphyxia among Live Births from 2023–2025 In Kiziguro District Hospital in Gatsibo District, Rwanda

Author: MWISENEZA Jean Paul, Dr. Amos HABIMANA

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 236-245

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 16-June-2026

Abstract: Limited access to maternal health services remains a significant challenge for vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant adolescent girls with disabilities, whose experiences are often underrepresented in rural settings. This study examined factors influencing access to maternal health services among pregnant adolescent girls with disabilities aged 12–19 years in Kirehe District, Rwanda, focusing on individual, household, community, and health-system determinants. A qualitative descriptive design was employed to explore participants lived experiences. Data were collected through 21 in-depth interviews with pregnant adolescent girls with disabilities, three focus group discussions involving 24 participants, and 10 key informant interviews with community health workers, healthcare providers, and district health officials. Participants were selected using purposive and maximum variation sampling to capture diverse disability types, age groups, and geographical locations. Data were analyzed thematically through systematic coding, categorization, and theme development. The findings revealed that access to maternal health services was influenced by multiple interconnected barriers. Physical obstacles included long distances to health facilities, difficult terrain, inadequate transportation, and limited disability-friendly infrastructure. Economic constraints, particularly transportation costs, persisted despite community-based health insurance coverage. Social and cultural barriers such as stigma, discrimination, fear of judgment, and negative perceptions surrounding adolescent pregnancy and disability discouraged timely disclosure of pregnancy and regular utilization of antenatal care services. Health-system challenges, including inadequate provider training in disability-inclusive care, communication difficulties, staff shortages, and inconsistent implementation of adolescent-friendly services, further constrained access and quality of care. Limited access to maternal health information also affected informed decision-making. Despite these barriers, several enabling factors promoted service utilization. Family support through emotional encouragement, financial assistance, accompaniment, and participation in healthcare decisions significantly enhanced access to care. Community Health Workers played a vital role in pregnancy identification, health education, follow-up, and referrals. Additionally, respectful healthcare providers, flexible service delivery approaches, and adolescent-friendly practices strengthened trust and encouraged continued engagement with maternal health services. The study concludes that improving maternal healthcare access for pregnant adolescent girls with disabilities requires integrated, disability-inclusive, and adolescent-responsive interventions that address structural, socio-cultural, informational, and health-system barriers while strengthening family and community support mechanisms. The findings provide valuable evidence to inform inclusive maternal health policies, improve service delivery, and promote equitable maternal healthcare in rural Rwanda.

Keywords: Maternal Health Services, Pregnant, Adolescent Girls, Disabilities, 12–19 Years, Kirehe District.

Title: Barriers and Facilitators to Accessing Maternal Health Services among Pregnant Adolescent Girls with Disabilities Aged 12–19 Years in Kirehe District, Rwanda

Author: NTIRENGANYA Theogene, Dr. Amos HABIMANA

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 224-235

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 16-June-2026

Abstract: Night eating syndrome is a type of eating disorder that is characterized by hyperphagia in the evening with 25% or more of daily caloric intake after dinner with not less than two nocturnal awakenings during the week to eat food. The prevalence is 1.5% in the general population of the United States. NES prevalence is like other binge eating disorders like bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa. It is more frequently seen in obese populations, although not all individuals with NES are, in fact, obese. Objectives: To assess the existing knowledge regarding night eating syndrome among young adults in selected colleges, To assess effectiveness of planned teaching on knowledge regarding night eating syndrome among young adults in selected colleges, To associate the post-test knowledge score with selected demographic variables. Materials and Methods: Quantitative research approach with Quasi experimental research design was used. 80 subjects were selected by using sample calculation formula with the help of population Prevalence. Youngs Adult population who belonged to 18 to 25 years in selected school. Non-Probability Convenient sampling technique was used to select the sample. The data were collected from selected school, using socio demographic and structured knowledge Questionnaire. Results: 80 subjects 15% of young adults were in the age group of 18-19 years, 62.50% in 20-21 years, 16.30% in 22-23 years and 6.30% of young adults were in the age group of 24-25 years.26.30% of young adults were males and 73.80% of them were females. Parents of 26.30% of young adults were government servant, 35% of them were private servant and 38.80% of them were doing other occupation. 60% of young adults were Hindus, 5% of them were Christian, 1.30% of them were Muslim and 33.80% of young adults were belonging to other religion. All(100%) of young adults were unmarried. 61.30% of young adults were from nuclear families, 36.30% were from joint and 2.50% of young adults were from extended families.42.50% of young adults had monthly family income of Rs 10000-15000, 37.50% had between Rs 15001-20000, 18.80% had between Rs 20001-30000 and only 1.30% of young adults had monthly family income of more than 30000 Rs.41.30% of young adults were vegetarian, 16.30% of them were non vegetarian and 42.50% of young adults were consuming mixed diet. In pre-test 42.5% of young adults had average level of knowledge score and 57.5% of them had good level of knowledge score. Minimum knowledge score in pretest was 7 and maximum knowledge score in pretest was 18. Mean knowledge score in pretest was 12.97 ± 2.63 and mean percentage of knowledge score in pretest was 43.25 ± 8.79. In the post-test,32.5% of young adults had good level of knowledge score, 42.5% had very good and 25% of young adults had excellent level of knowledge score. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% Poor, Average, Good, Very Good, Excellent 0% 42.50% 57.50% 0% 0% % of young adults Level of Pretest knowledge score Minimum knowledge score in posttest was 14 and maximum knowledge score in post-test was 28. Mean knowledge score in posttest was 21.20 ± 3.77 and mean percentage of knowledge score in post-test was 70.66 ± 12.58. The association of knowledge score with age in years of young adults from selected colleges. The tabulated ‘F’ values were 2.72 (df=3,76) which is less than the calculated ‘F’ i.e. 6.39 at 5% level of significance. Also, the calculated ‘p’=0.001 which was less than the acceptable level of significance i.e. ‘p’=0.05. Hence it is interpreted that age in years of young adults is statistically associated with their posttest knowledge score.

Keywords: Assess, knowledge, night Eating Syndrome, young adults, Selected School.

Title: A Study To Assess The Effectiveness of Planned Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding Night Eating Syndrome Among Young Adults in Selected Colleges

Author: Ms. Samiksha Kakade, Mr. Akshay Chavan

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 219-223

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 16-June-2026

Abstract: A tattoo is a permanent mark or design made on your skin with pigments inserted through pricks into the skin's top layer. Typically, the tattoo artist uses a hand-held machine that acts much like a sewing machine, with one or more needles piercing the skin repeatedly with every puncture, the needles insert tiny ink droplets. The process which is done without anaesthetics causes a small amount of bleeding and slight to potentially significant pain. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of planned teaching on knowledge regarding adverse effects of tattoo among junior colleges students in selected areas, to assess the existing knowledge regarding adverse effects of tattoo among junior colleges students in selected areas, to assess effectiveness of planned teaching on knowledge adverse effects of tattoo among junior colleges students in selected areas, to associate the post-test knowledge score with selected demographic variables. Materials and Methods: Quantitative research approach with pre-experimental research design was used. 80 subjects were selected by using sample calculation formula with the help of population Proportion. Students’ population who belonged to 18 to 25 years in selected junior college. Non-Probability Convenient sampling technique was used to select the sample. The data were collected from selected junior college, using socio demographic and structured knowledge Questionnaire. Results :The present study shows, out of the 80 subjects 15% of Junior College students were in the age group of 16-17 years, 62.50% in 18-19 years and 16.30% in 20-21 years, 26.30% of Junior college students were males and 73.80% of them were females, Parents of 26.30% of junior college students were government servant, 35% of them were private servant and 38.80% of them were doing other occupation,  61.30% of young adults were from nuclear families, 36.30% were from joint and 2.50% of junior college students were from extended families, 42.50% of junior college students had Socio economic status of Rs 10000-15000, 37.50% had between Rs 15001-20000, 18.80% had between Rs 20001-30000 and only 1.30% junior college students had Socio economic status of more than 30000 Rs, 41.30% of junior college students were yes, 16.30% of them were No and 42.50% of junior college students were not known, In pre-test 42.5% of junior college students had average level of knowledge score and 57.5% of them had good level of knowledge score. Minimum knowledge score in pretest was 7 and maximum knowledge score in pretest was 18. Mean knowledge score in pretest was 12.97 ± 2.63 and mean percentage of knowledge score in pretest was 43.25 ± 8.79, In the post-test,32.5% of junior college students had good level of knowledge score, 42.5% had very good and 25% of junior college students had excellent level of knowledge score. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% Poor, Average, Good, Very Good, Excellent 0% 42.50% 57.50% 0% 0% % of junior college students Level of Pretest knowledge score Minimum knowledge score in posttest was 14 and maximum knowledge score in post-test was 28. Mean knowledge score in posttest was 21.20 ± 3.77 and mean percentage of knowledge score in post-test was 70.66 ± 12.58, This table shows the association of knowledge score with age in years of Junior college students from selected areas. The tabulated ‘F’ values were 2.72 (df=3,76) which is less than the calculated ‘F’ i.e. 6.39 at 5% level of significance. Also, the calculated ‘p’=0.001 which was less than the acceptable level of significance i.e. ‘p’=0.05. Hence it is interpreted that age in years of junior college students is statistically associated with their post-test knowledge score.

Keywords: Assess, knowledge, adverse effects of Tattoo, Students, Junior College.

Title: A study to assess the effectiveness of planned teaching on knowledge regarding adverse effects of tattoo among junior colleges students in selected areas

Author: Mr. Sameer Nandeshwar, Mr. Jhon Masoji

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 214-218

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 16-June-2026

Abstract: Adherence to anti-hypertensive treatment is essential for controlling hypertension and preventing complications such as stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease. However, poor adherence remains a significant challenge in many low-resource settings. This study assessed factors associated with adherence to anti-hypertensive treatment among hypertensive patients in the Kabgayi Hospital catchment area, Rwanda. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 418 hypertensive patients selected through consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used to determine factors associated with adherence. The findings revealed low adherence levels, with only 14.6% of participants demonstrating high medication adherence, while 51.4% exhibited low adherence and 45.0% reported missing at least one dose within the previous two weeks. Financial constraints (62.2%) and out-of-pocket expenditures for medicines due to stock-outs at health facilities significantly reduced adherence (AOR = 0.52, p = 0.002; AOR = 0.55, p = 0.018), whereas health insurance positively influenced adherence (AOR = 1.70, p = 0.025). Healthcare system factors, including shorter waiting times, consistent medication availability, accessibility of health facilities, and patient satisfaction, significantly improved adherence (AOR = 1.65–2.50, p < 0.05). Patient education, understanding of treatment consequences, and motivation were also significant predictors, with motivation showing the strongest association (AOR = 2.80, p < 0.001). The study concludes that adherence remains suboptimal and recommends strengthening medication availability, financial protection mechanisms, patient education, and motivational support to improve treatment outcomes among hypertensive patients.

Keywords: Hypertension, treatment adherence, anti-hypertensive medication, healthcare accessibility, patient motivation, Rwanda.

Title: FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ADHERENCE TO ANTI-HYPERTENSIVE TREATMENTS IN KABGAYI HOSPITAL, RWANDA

Author: Kayitesi Antoinette, Dr. Michael Habtu, Dr. Amos Habimana

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 198-213

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 12-June-2026

Abstract: Anemia in pregnancy remains a major public health challenge globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries such as Rwanda, where maternal nutritional deficiencies and limited healthcare access persist. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia among pregnant females of reproductive age attending Remera Health Center in Gasabo District, Rwanda. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, targeting 224 pregnant women selected through systematic random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and complemented by a review of medical records. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 30. The findings revealed that 25.89% of the respondents were anemic, with microcytic hypochromic anemia identified as the predominant type. The highest prevalence was observed among women aged 30–34 years (24%), while the lowest occurred among those aged 40–44 years (14%). Married women represented 53% of the anemic cases, suggesting that socio-economic and household factors may play a key role in influencing nutritional outcomes during pregnancy. The study concludes that anemia continues to pose a significant public health concern among pregnant women in the study area. It recommends strengthening antenatal care services, enhancing screening and nutritional counseling, and promoting adherence to iron and folic acid supplementation as effective strategies to reduce anemia prevalence and improve maternal health outcomes.

Keywords: Anemia, Pregnancy, Prevalence, Iron Deficiency, Public Health, Remera Health Center, Rwanda.

Title: Prevalence of Anemia among Pregnant Females of Reproductive Age Attending Remera Health Center in Gasabo District, Rwanda

Author: Veuillemier Marie Ange, Mizero Olivier, Mourice Silali

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 193-197

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 11-June-2026

Abstract: This narrative review evaluates axillary de-escalation in early breast cancer in the context of molecular oncology. While surgical burden has reduced, systemic therapy and radiotherapy have increased, suggesting a shift rather than true de-escalation.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Axillary surgery; De-escalation; Genomics; Molecular subtypes.

Title: Axillary Surgery De-escalation in Early Breast Cancer: Are We Truly De-escalating or Simply Shifting to Another Treatment Modality?

Author: Dr. Richa Rani, Dr. Saurabh Patel

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 190-192

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 06-June-2026

Abstract: Background: Electronic waste or e-waste is a big problem that is getting worse every day. This is because new technology is coming out all the time and people are buying more electronic devices. When we throw away these devices in the way it is very bad for the earth and our health. This is because they have things like lead and mercury inside them. We do not know much about how people deal with e-waste at home. We also do not know what people, in communities think about e-waste or what stops them from getting rid of it. Electronic waste is still an issue.

Objectives: To assess the knowledge and practices regarding e-waste management in urban households

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among urban households in the field practice area using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. People above 18 years of residing in the field area were recruited by simple random sampling .Information regarding socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge about e-waste, disposal practices, awareness of health and environmental risks was collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The study evaluated awareness levels, disposal behaviors, and challenges related to e-waste management among urban residents. Majority of the participants demonstrated moderate knowledge (53.3%) and moderate practices(78.6%) of e- waste management.

Conclusion: Strengthening public awareness, improving accessibility to e-waste collection centers, and implementing incentive-based recycling programs may enhance responsible e-waste disposal practices among urban households.

Keywords: Electronic waste, electronic devices, recycling programs.

Title: Knowledge and Practices of E-Waste Management in Urban Households: A Cross-Sectional Study

Author: Dr. Malai Ammal, Aparna, Aravindhan, Dr. Arun Murugan

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 184-189

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 05-June-2026

Abstract: Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the leading infectious causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Beyond pulmonary manifestations, TB is associated with metabolic disturbances that may contribute to disease severity and treatment outcomes. Electrolyte abnormalities and alterations in membrane potential have been reported among pulmonary tuberculosis patients, but their clinical significance remains inadequately characterized.

Keywords: Pulmonary tuberculosis, Electrolytes, Membrane potential, Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Hyponatremia, Hypokalemia.

Title: Electrolyte Disturbances and Membrane Potential Alterations in Newly Diagnosed and Treated Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients in Imo State

Author: Ekenyem Kierian, Azuike Chioma Gladys, Chiamaka Stella Umelo Onuoha, Nwaigwe Chidera, Ayozie Paschal Chibuzor

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 180-183

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 04-June-2026

Abstract: The global healthcare sector accounts for approximately 4.4–8.5% of national greenhouse gas emissions, making it a significant contributor to climate change. Yet, the sector’s internal commitment to environmental sustainability remains inconsistent and under-researched, particularly in terms of frontline workforce awareness and institutional infrastructure. This cross-sectional survey study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and institutional readiness of healthcare professionals (n=312) across multiple healthcare settings regarding sustainable healthcare practices, including green energy adoption, waste reduction, sustainable procurement, and carbon footprint management. Data were collected using a validated 28-item structured questionnaire administered online between January and March 2024. Results revealed that 67.3% of respondents acknowledged the environmental impact of healthcare delivery, yet only 38.5% reported that their institution had a formal sustainability policy in place. A significant positive correlation (r=0.61, p<0.001) was found between professional education level and sustainability awareness scores. Key barriers identified included lack of training (74.4%), absence of institutional frameworks (61.2%), and cost concerns (57.1%). The study underscores an urgent need for embedding environmental sustainability curricula in health professional education and operationalizing institutional sustainability frameworks in hospitals globally.

Keywords: Sustainable healthcare, green hospitals, carbon footprint, healthcare waste management, environmental sustainability, health professional awareness, green practices.

Title: Greening the Healing: Assessing Healthcare Professionals’ Awareness, Attitudes, and Institutional Readiness toward Sustainable Healthcare Practices: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Author: Dr. Aashish Raj Kakuri

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 173-179

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 03-June-2026

Abstract: Background: Family is a group of people related by blood, emotions, marriage, adoptions. Family is where our roots take hold and from there, we grow. Family play an important role in shaping an individual’s personality, values and behaviour. In India, the joint family system has been in existence since ancient times. However, with the passage of time, the joint family system has disintegrated, giving rise to the nuclear family system. The nuclear family is a biological phenomenon of private human society. It not an adaptive form in an evolutionary series of human development nor a functional aspect of industrial aspect. Rather it a practically human time in social space. Nuclear family is the unit of husband - wife and parents - children. Whereas joint family is nothing but an extension of nuclear family in which the spouse was not separated after their marriage due various reasons.

Objective: To make a comparative study of the various aspects of psychological factors e.g., happiness, cheerful, etc among the members of nuclear and joint family and to promote a positive mental health among the members.

Conclusion: We concluded that studying the psychological well-being of the nuclear and joint families helps finding differences in social support, communication, and their stress levels and enhancers. It can provide a vision into the effects of family structure and their roles playing on mental health, which may inform interference and support systems for individuals in different family setups. In joint families, the people can provide emotional support, develops communication around everyone, and shared responsibilities, which leads to a strong social network. Nuclear families, provides more privacy, allowing for better /quality individual decision-making and reduced conflicts among the family members.

Keywords: Joint family, nuclear family, responsibilities, psychological wellbeing, mental health, emotional support, privacy.

Title: A Comparative Study on psychological well-being among nuclear and joint families in urban population, Chennai

Author: Karna Palanisamy S, Jagadeeshwari D

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 164-172

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 03-June-2026

Abstract: Background: Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) remain a leading cause of morbidity among school-aged children in sub-Saharan Africa. Rwanda has implemented national mass drug administration (MDA) programmes, yet persistent hotspots remain. Mudende Sector, Rubavu District a high-altitude, predominantly rural area bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo with documented WASH infrastructure deficits  has never been characterised by sector-specific STH data. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, infection intensity, and independent risk factors for STH infection among school-aged children in this setting.

Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted using secondary data from a community survey carried out by the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) in 2023. All 1,093 school-aged children (aged 5–14 years) with complete stool examination results and household WASH data were included. Infection was diagnosed using the duplicate Kato-Katz technique; intensity was classified per WHO criteria. Bivariate chi-square analysis and multivariate logistic regression identified independent predictors of STH infection (significance threshold p < 0.05).

Results: Overall STH prevalence was 95.3% (n = 1,042). Ascaris lumbricoides (86.0%) and Trichuris trichiura (85.9%) were the predominant species; hookworm was rare (0.5%). Dual Ascaris–Trichuris co-infections affected 76.7% of children. Moderate-intensity infections predominated for both Ascaris (85.1%) and Trichuris (83.4%). In multivariate analysis, only two variables independently predicted infection: absence of a household handwashing facility (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 6.57; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.77–19.8; p = 0.002) and reliance on unimproved water sources (aOR = 3.20; 95% CI: 1.23–7.32; p = 0.009). Gender, age, parental education and literacy, religion, latrine cleanliness, and knowledge-attitude-practice scores were not independently significant.

Conclusions: STH infections are hyper-endemic in Mudende Sector a prevalence that has not declined despite years of national MDA and are driven entirely by structural deficits in WASH infrastructure rather than individual behavioral or demographic factors. High STH knowledge coexisting with near-universal infection demonstrates that awareness cannot substitute for physical infrastructure in hyper-endemic settings. Mudende Sector should be formally designated a priority hotspot within Rwanda's national NTD control programme, with deworming frequency increased to at least three rounds per year and investment in household handwashing facilities and safe water access accelerated through multi-sectoral collaboration.

Keywords: soil-transmitted helminths; Ascaris lumbricoides; Trichuris trichiura; Rwanda; school-aged children; WASH; handwashing; hyper-endemic; Kato-Katz; neglected tropical diseases.

Title: Prevalence, Intensity and Factors Associated with Soil Transmitted Helminths among School Aged Children in Mudende Sector, Rubavu District, 2023

Author: Uwayezu Leonard, Amanuel Kidane Andegiorgish

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 153-163

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 01-June-2026

Abstract: Background: For neurosurgery patients on antiplatelet or anticoagulation, there is a critical balance to be struck between the risks of bleeding and thromboembolic complications. A crucial distinction must be made, as the effects of even a small amount of over-bleeding are irreversible and fatal.

Key Findings: Aspirin can safely be continued for certain types of cranial or spinal procedures. P2Y12 inhibitors will need to be discontinued 5-10 days before operation. For Warfarin patients, the goal is an INR <1.4, and bridging is only recommended in extreme situations of thrombotic risk. All DOACs should be discontinued 48-72 hours before procedure, but emergency reversal is available if necessary (idarucizumab and andexanet alfa). Routine bridging anticoagulation should generally not be utilized.

Conclusion: Multidisciplinary, individualized decision making is necessary in each perioperative neurosurgical case; by accounting for the risks of bleeding from specific procedures versus individual thrombotic risks to a specific patient, one can provide adequate care. This review aims to offer a systematic evidence based approach to such a dilemma.

Keywords: anticoagulants; antiplatelet; neurosurgery; perioperative management; intracranial haemorrhage; bridging anticoagulation; DOAC reversal.

Title: Perioperative Management of Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Therapy in Neurosurgical Patients: A Practical Review with Evidence-Based Flow Chart

Author: Dr. Rathikinda Srinivasulu, Dr Saurabh Patel

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 145-152

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 01-June-2026

Abstract: Background: Postpartum weight retention is a major contributor to the long term obesity and related health problems in women, Despite being a critical period for health promotion, postpartum phase is often neglected in routine maternal care. Addressing lifestyle practices, mental health, sociocultural factors through comprehensive postpartum interventions can improve maternal health outcomes and long term well being.

Objectives: This study aims to estimate the prevalence of postpartum weight retention and assess its association with lifestyle, psychosocial, dietary, sociodemographic factors as well as weight management interventions among postpartum women in Chennai.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 women, 6 months to 1 year postpartum, attending primary health centres in Chennai between June and August 2025. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic details, obstetric history, sleep, diet, physical activity, psychosocial perceptions, and weight loss intentions. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, and associations were analysed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests.

Results: The prevalence of PPWR was high (79%). Significant associations were observed with shorter sleep duration, household and childcare responsibilities, mismatched family eating habits, limited dietary awareness, bodyweight perception, and occupation. Weight loss intentions were strongly influenced by confidence, media exposure, social comparison, physical activity, dietary efforts, and motivation to initiate lifestyle changes.

Conclusion: Postpartum weight retention is common and influenced by modifiable behavioural and psychosocial factors. The postpartum period is a key opportunity for preventing long term obesity and cardiometabolic risk by integrating structured lifestyle and psychosocial counselling into routine maternal care.

Keywords: Postpartum weight retention (PPWR); Maternal health; Psychosocial determinants; Dietary behaviours; Physical activity; Body image perception; Urban primary health centres; Public health intervention; Obesity prevention; Cardiometabolic risk.

Title: Postpartum Weight Retention and Weight Loss Intentions among Women Attending an Urban Primary Health Centre in Chennai: A Cross-Sectional Study

Author: M.H.Akshaya, N.Alagusankar, Dr. Sathishkumar, Dr.Arunmurugan

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026

Page No: 138-144

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 01-June-2026