Vol 13 Issue 2 October 2025-March 2026

Abstract: Diarrheal disease remains a major global public health concern, causing approximately 525,000 deaths annually among children under five years of age. Sub-Saharan Africa bears a disproportionate burden, recording an estimated 7.5 million cases each year. In Rwanda, diarrheal disease continues to affect many under-five children, yet limited research has examined its determinants and mitigation strategies in specific settings such as Gitarama Health Center in Muhanga District. This study aimed to identify key determinants and preventive measures for diarrheal disease among under-five children attending Gitarama Health Center. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, using purposive sampling to select 376 mothers or guardians of under-five children. Data were analyzed to determine the prevalence, associated factors, and mitigation practices. Results showed that 23.4% (n = 88) of the children had experienced diarrhea within the two weeks preceding the survey. Most cases were single episodes, while few were recurrent. Common management practices included seeking care at health facilities (73.9%), using oral rehydration salts (56.8%), and increasing fluid intake (43.2%). Traditional remedies (15.9%) and herbal medicine (6.8%) were also used. Hygienic behaviors, such as handwashing before feeding and safe disposal of child feces, were significantly associated with reduced diarrhea incidence (p < 0.05). The study concludes that diarrhea remains a significant public health issue among under-five children in Muhanga District. Strengthening hygiene practices, promoting community health education, and addressing cultural misconceptions are vital for effective prevention and improved child health outcomes in Rwanda and similar contexts.

Keywords: Determinants, Mitigation Methods, Diarrheal Disease, Under-Five Children, Gitarama Health Center, Rwanda.

Title: Determinants and Mitigation Methods used to Prevent and Control Diarrheal Disease Among Under-Five Children attending Gitarama Health Center, Muhanga District, Rwanda, 2025

Author: UKOBIZABA Pierre Celestin, Dr. Silari B. Maurice

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 271-283

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 14-November-2025

Abstract: This study was conducted to evaluate the quality of domestic (non-drinking) and drinking water used by students in Thanh Hoa, based on 51 domestic water and 51 drinking water samples collected from student boarding houses and dormitories. The samples were analyzed against several parameters specified in the Ministry of Health’s National Technical Regulation QCVN (Vietnamese Standard) 02/2009/BYT (Ministry of Health) and the recommendations of the EPA (2025). The results indicate that the majority of the water samples met the safety standards, satisfying the basic quality requirements for both domestic use and direct consumption. The water sources generally exhibited good clarity, were odorless and tasteless, maintained a stable pH level, and showed no significant contamination. However, some samples demonstrated variation in quality, particularly concerning the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) index, which may be linked to differing storage conditions, piping systems, or water supply sources. The study affirms the crucial role of clean water quality in general, and clean water for students in particular. Furthermore, the research recommends the need for close monitoring of clean water quality, periodic inspection, and strengthened measures for maintaining water supply infrastructure. The research findings contribute a scientific basis for urban environmental management and the protection of student public health. 

Keywords: Domestic water; Drinking water; Water quality; Students; Thanh Hoa.

Title: EVALUATING THE QUALITY OF DOMESTIC WATER AND DRINKING WATER FOR STUDENTS IN THANH HOA, VIETNAM

Author: Nguyen Hoang Lam Tran, Phuong Le Nguyen, Mai Anh Tran, Yen Nhi Nguyen, Thu Thuy Nguyen, Thuy Linh Le Tran, Anh Vu Mai

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 259-270

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 12-November-2025

Abstract: Psychoactive substances are possibly among the most threats to the world’s population. In 2021, over 180,000 deaths were directly associated to disorders due to psychoactive substances. In 2015, the magnitude of drug use among Rwandan youth was revealed to be high. This study intended to measure the magnitude of psychotic symptoms and associated factors among psychoactive substances users at HUYE ISANGE Rehabilitation Centre. Multi-variable binary logistic regression shown the following factors to have a significant association with occurrence of psychotic symptoms among psychoactive substances users: Respondents who were 36 years of age and above {AOR=2.561,95%CI: [2.647,5.287], P=0.021}, Users who were male {AOR=3.050, 95%CI: [1.705,3.445], P=0.037}, users consuming cannabis {AOR: 1.810, 95%CI: [1.596;2.807], P=0.028}, users consuming Heroin {AOR: 1.250, 95%CI: [1.603;3.325], P=0.031}and participants using multiple substance use {AOR=2.85,95% CI: [0.417-0.983], P=0.041}. As a result, the study found that prevalence among psychoactive substances users at HUYE ISANGE Rehabilitation Centre is high (78%) and factors like age, sex, type of drug and type of use were identified to be associated to occurrence of psychotic symptoms among psychoactive substance users. The high prevalence of psychotic symptoms among psychoactive substance users underscores a critical mental health and public health challenge. Interventions targeting high-risk groups, including early screening, mental health education, and integrated rehabilitation programs, are urgently needed to reduce the burden of substance-related psychosis and improve mental health outcomes in this population. Targeted interventions, including community awareness campaigns, mental health screening in rehabilitation programs, and further research among other substance users, are urgently needed.

Keywords:  Psychotic symptoms, Psychoactive substance use, Associated factors, Huye Isange Rehabilitation Centre.

Title: PREVALENCE OF PSYCHOTIC SYMPTOMS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCE USERS AT HUYE ISANGE REHABILITATION CENTER, RWANDA

Author: Damien Nsekeyimana, Dr Jean Damascène Iyamuremye, Dr Monica Mochama, Alexis Nduwamungu,^, Janvier Ndayambaje

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 247-258

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 10-November-2025

Abstract: Background: Reproductive health, particularly contraceptive use is an essential component of women’s overall wellbeing, recognized as an effective method for reducing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, mainly among vulnerable populations such as women with mental illness. However, despite global efforts to promote reproductive rights, studies evaluating the contraceptive usage among this demographic are scarce, particularly   in countries with limited resource like Rwanda. Aim: This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of contraceptive use among women with mental illness. Setting: Ndera Neuro-Psychiatric Teaching Hospital, Rwanda. Methods: This study was a quantitative cross-sectional study, in which employed a convenience sampling technique. Results: Of the 380 respondents aged between 18-49 years, 98.4% had heard of at least one method of contraception, with pills 95%, injectable 90.8%, and implants 71.5% being the most commonly known methods and health care providers were the main source of information 78.6%. Of the respondent 55.53% (211) reported positive attitude while 44.47% (169) reported negative attitude toward contraceptive use. Despite this high awareness and positive attitude, only 33.9% were current contraceptive users, and 58.4% had ever used a method. Multivariate analysis showed that age, marital status, and psychiatric diagnosis were independent predictors of contraceptive use (p < 0.05). Conclusion: While knowledge of contraception is high among women with mental illness, actual utilization remains low, hindered by persistent misconceptions, age, relationship status and diagnosis type. Integrating tailored reproductive health services within psychiatric care and addressing misinformation are critical to improving contraceptive uptake in this vulnerable population.

Keywords: Contraceptive, mental illness, knowledge, attitudes and practice (KAP), Reproductive health.

Title: Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of contraception among Women with Mental illness attending Ndera Neuro-Psychiatric Teaching Hospital in Rwanda

Author: Alexis NDUWAMUNGU, Dr Jean Damascene IYAMUREMYE, Damien NSEKEYIMANA, Fidele NIZEYIMANA, Ibrahim HABANABAKIZE, Emmanuel HABIYAREMYE

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 236-246

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 10-November-2025

Abstract: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus among elderly has increased in Rwanda. Controlling diabetes mellitus primarily focuses on integrating diabetes management into primary healthcare through a national strategy, utilizing home-based care practitioners (HBCPs) to reach patients at the community level, and promoting lifestyle modifications like healthy diet and physical activity.  Bur the information in Gasabo hospital remain unknown it was this reason that let to study factors associated with low uptake of the minimum nutritional diet to prevent and control diabetes mellitus among elder people visiting Kibagabaga Second-level teaching Hospital in Gasabo district .Specifically  Prevalence of diabetes mellitus management by nutritional diet among elderly people, assess Social economic factors associated with diabetes mellitus management by nutritional diet on the health of elderly people, assess mitigation methods used to prevent diabetes mellitus elderly people from adhering to a nutritional diet tailored for diabetes mellitus prevention and control in Kibagabaga Second-level teaching Hospital in Gasabo District, the study was descriptive cross sectional and cohort , sampling technique was purposive and retrospective using retrospective form , data was management by SPSS version 27 and analyzed by cross tabulation of descriptive and inferential staststics ,  ethical clearance by MKU school of post graduate and kibagabaga hospital. Results The study shows that many male 119 (66%) participants compared to female gender, 62 (34%), the majority were aged cohort was 41 to 50 77(43%) and least cohort was above 51 years 64, (35.4%). Prevalence of elderly diabetic mellitus in the Gasabo district is only 42% (76), for population health who had chronic conditions and with range of 21 respondents of living with DM for less than 10 years 55 (30%), with RR (0.41, 0.51). OD (0.72), The study associated abundant uptake of heavy sugary foods and limited physical exercise in elderly to be main cause of increased DM with 62 respondents with 34% attack rate. With significant p values of 0.013, 95%CI. The results opined that majority of the respondents 51% (94) received the service from dietary officer and specialist nutrition community health worker to prevent and control DM. while 23% (77), respondents received mitigation service at hospital after visiting o prevent and control type diabetic mellitus in their body. The study recommends need to more physical fitness among the elderly.

Keywords: Low uptake of nutritional diet, diabetes mellitus, elders people.

Title: Factors Associated with Low Uptake of Nutritional Diet to Prevent and Control Diabetes Mellitus among Elderly People Visiting Kibagabaga Second-Level Teaching Hospital in Gasabo District, Rwanda

Author: Job IRADUKUNDA, Dr. Maurice B. Silali

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 216-235

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 08-November-2025

Abstract: Diarrheal disease remains a significant public health challenge and a leading cause of mortality among children under five, contributing to approximately 9% of global child deaths in 2021.In Rwanda, despite the progress, diarrhea is a persistent major public health concern, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality among children under five years old with the prevalence of 12-14% with higher rates in the Western Province .The main objective of this study was to determine prevalence and associated factors of diarrhea among under five children attending Byahi health center, Rubavu district, Western Province, Rwanda. A cross-sectional study was conducted among mothers of 432 children seeking diarrhea management services at Byahi health center. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire while data analysis was conducted by using IBM SPSS software version 25.The prevalence of diarrhea was determined using descriptive statistics while the independent factors associated diarrhea in children under five years old were identified using binary logistic regression analysis and chi square test . Statistical significance was determined using odds ratios (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a p-value of ≤0.05. The results revealed that the prevalence of diarrhea in this study was 12.4% (n=52) .The factors that were associated with diarrhea among under five years old children were occupation status of mother as children of non-working mothers had significantly greater odds of experiencing diarrhea than children of mothers with occupation (OR = 8.57; 95% CI: 2.89–25.43; p < 0.001), child’s age where by children between the ages of 6 and 24 months had significantly higher risks of getting diarrhea(OR = 9.10; 95% CI: 3.28–25.22; p < 0.001), the source of drinking water was , children who drink water from a borehole had a greater than 12-fold higher risk of diarrhea than children who use piped tap water (OR = 12.1; 95% CI: 3.56–41.13; p < 0.001), shared latrine use (OR = 4.10; 95% CI: 1.28–20.22; p < 0.004). The current study found that a sizable portion of the children under five who visited Byahi Health Center experienced diarrhea.The results of the study have significant policy implications for health intervention programs and demonstrate the potential value of assisting women in their work to generate cash in order to improve the health and survival of children in the study area and throughout Rwanda. One potential long-term strategy to lower the morbidity from diarrhea is the adoption of efficient health education initiatives that emphasize personal hygiene and eventually lead to complete sanitation.

Keywords: Diarrheal disease, public health, global child deaths, education initiatives, personal hygiene.

Title: DETERMINING PREVALENCE OF DIARRHEA AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG UNDERFIVE CHILDRENATTENDING BYAHI HEALTHCENTRE, RUBAVU DISTRICT, RWANDA

Author: MURORUNKWERE Geraldine, KINARA Eric, KALISA Richard

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 201-215

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 07-November-2025

Abstract: The dominant paradigm in oncology is a reductionist war of attrition against cancerous cells, an approach often successful yet plagued by systemic collateral damage, therapeutic resistance, and a high patient suffering cost. This paper proposes a novel conceptual framework, adapting the nonphysical primitive of "Care"—defined as the impetus to assign terminal value to the state of a system—from artificial intelligence alignment to cancer treatment. We posit that operationalizing Care as a systemic stewardship principle, rather than a cytotoxic campaign, can optimize therapeutic strategy by minimizing total host suffering, fostering healthy system resilience, and leveraging the patient's own biological intelligence. This represents a shift from a purely physical battle to a meta-physically guided, system-level optimization problem.

Keywords: systemic collateral damage, systemic stewardship principle, cytotoxic campaign, cancer treatment.

Title: The Application of a Nonphysical Primitive in Oncology: A Framework for Systemic Cancer Stewardship

Author: The Steward AGI, Andrew Philps

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 199-200

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 07-November-2025

Abstract: Background: Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder that presents major global health, social, and economic challenges. Despite the availability of behavioral and pharmacological interventions, relapse remains highly prevalent, underscoring the need for innovative, multidisciplinary strategies in addiction medicine.

Objectives: This review integrates recent evidence from neuroscience and clinical research to highlight the role of noninvasive brain stimulation, stress‐responsive neurobiology, and hospital‐based addiction services in improving understanding and management of substance use disorders.

Study Selection: The review synthesizes findings from three key studies addressing (a) neural modulation and monitoring through noninvasive brain stimulation, (b) stress‐related neurobiological pathways in opiate addiction, and (c) prognostic clinical factors influencing treatment outcomes among hospitalized patients with substance use disorders.

Conclusion: Addiction is a multisystem condition influenced by neurocircuitry dysfunction, hormonal dysregulation, and psychosocial vulnerabilities. Emerging evidence supports the use of brain stimulation techniques, targeted stress‐system interventions, and integrated hospital‐based addiction services to enhance recovery outcomes. A precision‐based, interdisciplinary approach combining neurobiological insight with clinical care can help establish more effective and sustainable treatment frameworks.

Keywords: Addiction medicine, brain stimulation, stress neurobiology, substance use disorder, relapse prevention.

Title: Advances in Addiction Medicine: Neurobiological Insights, Noninvasive Brain Stimulation, and Clinical Prognostic Factors

Author: TL Srinedhi, B.Bharathi, Deepa C.Philip

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 194-198

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 07-November-2025

Abstract: Despite ongoing health interventions and policy initiatives, hypertension awareness and control remained limited, highlighting the need for targeted health strategies across East Africa to address the growing incidence of hypertension. This gap in awareness contributed to complications such as stroke and ischemic heart disease, which emerged as leading causes of mortality in the region. This study investigated the prevalence and associated factors of hypertension among adults aged 40-75 years at Kibuye Referral Hospital. The specific objectives were to determine the prevalence of hypertension within this age group and to identify contributing factors among outpatients. Utilizing a descriptive research design with a quantitative approach, data were gathered through questionnaires and document analysis. The study targeted adult outpatients from November 2024 to January 2025, with a sample of 390 respondents selected through simple random sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS, employing Chi-square and logistic regression to assess associations and risk factors. The overall prevalence of hypertension was 30% (117 out of 390). Hypertension was significantly higher among males (p = 0.001), individuals aged 40–49 years (p = 0.001), and those with no formal education or low monthly income (p = 0.001). Dietary factors such as low fruit and vegetable intake, high salt consumption, and frequent intake of processed foods were significantly associated with hypertension. Behavioral factors including smoking, alcohol use, and physical inactivity, were also significantly linked to increased hypertension risk (p = 0.001). The study revealed a high burden of hypertension among adults in Kibuye, with strong associations to modifiable risk factors. Effective community health interventions, public education on healthy lifestyles, regular screening, and integration of non-communicable disease prevention into primary health care are urgently needed to address this growing public health concern.

Keywords: (MeSH): Prevalence, Associated Factors of Hypertension, Adult Population.

Title: Prevalence and Associated Factors of Hypertension among Adult Population aged between 40-75 Years Visiting Kibuye Referral Hospital

Author: UWIMANA Perpetue, Dr. Amos HABIMANA

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 175-193

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 06-November-2025

Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the radiation dose (X-ray examinations) received by adult patients (over 18 years of age) undergoing pelvic and abdominal X-ray examinations. The study was conducted at Al-Sadr Teaching Hospital, Al-Hakim General Hospital, and Al-Furat Al-Awsat Hospital. Private Medical Clinic (1) and Private Medical Clinic (2). At least 12-15 X-ray examinations were calculated for each type of radiological examination. The radiation dose was extracted using exposure factors, namely tube voltage (kVp), tube load (mAs), and focal skin distance (FSD-cm). The radiation dose was calculated for all patients involved in this work who underwent pelvic (AP) and abdominal (AP) examinations. The resulting data was analyzed using statistical analysis methods and compared to international reference values. radiation dose was evaluated using mathematical equation and knowledge of exposure factors (kVp, mAs and SID).

The results at Al-Hakim General Hospital showed that the lowest dose value for the pelvis was (1.96) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, while the highest value was (2.94) 𝑚𝐺𝑦. The lowest dose per abdominal rradiography was (1.29) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, and the highest dose value was (2.84) 𝑚𝐺𝑦.

The results at Al-Sadr General Hospital showed that the lowest dose value for the pelvis was (1.73) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, while the highest value was (3.55) 𝑚𝐺𝑦. The lowest dose for abdominal X-ray was (1.66) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, and the highest dose value was (3.47) 𝑚𝐺𝑦. At Al-Furat Middle General Hospital, the results showed that the lowest dose value for the pelvis was (1.79) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, while the highest value was (3.6) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, while the lowest dose with abdominal X-ray was (1.79) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, and the highest dose value was (3.17) 𝑚𝐺𝑦. Concerning the private medical clinic, the results showed that the lowest dose value for with pelvis was (2.98) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, while the highest value was (4.74) 𝑚𝐺𝑦. The lowest dose with abdominal skin was (2.4) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, and the highest dose value was (3.84) 𝑚𝐺𝑦. Regarding the private medical clinic (2) showed that the lowest dose value for the pelvis was (2.41) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, while the highest value was (3.61) 𝑚𝐺𝑦. The lowest dose for abdominal radiography was (1.55) 𝑚𝐺𝑦, and the highest dose value was (3.35) 𝑚𝐺𝑦. Finally, the results demonstrates that the radiation doses for each of X-ray examinations are generally within the reference level.

Keywords: abdominal X-ray examinations, adult patients, private medical clinic, radiological examination.

Title: Experiment to evaluate the entrance surface dose delivered to the patient undertaking pelvic and abdominal X-ray examinations

Author: Ali Jaafar Azeez, Adnan Hassoon Oraibi, Ali Hussein Abdulzahra, Tabarek Adil Mohsin, Hussien Abid Ali Mraity, Ali Abid Abojassim

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 170-174

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 06-November-2025

Abstract: Background: Pharmaceutical waste disposal is a growing environmental and public health concern, particularly in community pharmacy settings where inappropriate disposal can lead to contamination and adverse health outcomes.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceived barriers regarding pharmaceutical waste disposal among pharmacists in community pharmacies across Kigali, Rwanda.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data collection. Pharmacists were surveyed to evaluate their awareness of existing pharmaceutical waste regulations, personal attitudes toward proper disposal, and the challenges they face in implementation. Additional factors such as infrastructure, cultural beliefs, and knowledge of environmental risks were also examined. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods to identify significant trends and associations.

Results: The study revealed that while 83.9% of pharmacists demonstrated moderate to high knowledge and 77.0% held positive attitudes toward pharmaceutical waste disposal, only 13.8% practiced at a high level, with 21.3% showing poor practices. Key barriers included insufficient disposal infrastructure, limited training, and lack of clear regulatory guidelines. Chi-square tests showed no statistically significant associations between practice levels and variables such as knowledge (χ²(2) = 0.407, p = 0.816), attitude (χ²(2) = 4.302, p = 0.116), age (χ²(3) = 1.240, p = 0.743), gender (χ²(1) = 0.003, p = 0.958), education (χ²(2) = 4.185, p = 0.123), experience (χ²(3) = 0.508, p = 0.917), pharmacy location (χ²(3) = 5.113, p = 0.164), or weekly working hours (χ²(2) = 4.141, p = 0.126). These results suggest that while some trends are apparent, knowledge and attitude alone are not sufficient predictors of proper practice. External or systemic factors, such as organizational support, operational resources, and regulatory enforcement, may be more critical in influencing behavior. Therefore, multifaceted interventions are needed to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice in pharmaceutical waste management.

Conclusion: The findings highlight a disconnect between knowledge and practice, largely influenced by infrastructural and policy-related barriers. There is a critical need for enhanced waste disposal infrastructure, clear and enforceable guidelines, and continuous professional education to improve compliance. These results offer practical recommendations for policymakers, regulatory agencies, and pharmacy management to strengthen pharmaceutical waste management systems and protect both public health and the environment in Rwanda.

Keywords: (MeSH):  Pharmaceutical waste disposal, Community pharmacies, Pharmacists, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices.

Title: ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES TOWARD PHARMACEUTICAL WASTE DISPOSAL AMONG PHARMACISTS IN KIGALI COMMUNITY PHARMACIES

Author: Nadine UWASE, Amos HABIMANA

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 158-169

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 06-November-2025

Abstract: The study investigated the growing issue of self-medication with antibiotics among students at the University of Kigali, a practice contributing significantly to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR poses a serious global threat, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning it could lead to 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if left unchecked. In Rwanda, self-medication is widespread among university students, influenced by financial limitations, easy access to antibiotics, and inadequate health awareness. Despite global attention to this issue, limited research has focused on the Rwandan university context. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 235 systematically selected students across various faculties and levels through structured questionnaires. Analysis in SPSS version 25 involved descriptive and logistic regression methods. Most respondents were aged between 24 and 26 years (45.5%), and males constituted the majority (61.3%). The findings revealed a high prevalence (69.4%) of antibiotic self-medication. The common ailments prompting self-treatment were coughs, colds, and flu (57.7%), followed by sore throat (26.4%). The most frequently used antibiotics included amoxicillin (53.4%), metronidazole (30.7%), and azithromycin (11.0%). Knowledge regarding antibiotic use was generally moderate (86.4%), while attitudes were neutral (77.9%) and perceptions poor (60.4%). Regression results indicated that sufficient monthly income, financial constraints leading to occasional self-medication, preference for managing minor illnesses independently, and reliance on prior experience were significant predictors of self-medication. Conversely, students who distrusted pharmacists dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions were less likely to self-medicate. The study concluded that self-medication with antibiotics is alarmingly prevalent among University of Kigali students, primarily influenced by socio-economic factors, accessibility of antibiotics, and self-reliant health behaviors. Despite moderate knowledge levels, poor attitudes and perceptions persist, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study recommends integrating rational antibiotic use into university health education programs, conducting regular awareness campaigns, enforcing stricter regulations on antibiotic sales, and ensuring that pharmacies dispense antibiotics only upon valid prescriptions while educating the public on responsible use.

Keywords: Prevalence, Self-Medication, Antibiotics, University of Kigali, Students, Rwanda.

Title: Prevalence and Factors Associated with Self-Medication of Antibiotics among University of Kigali Students in Rwanda

Author: Niyigena Aline, Dr Rosemary Okova

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 144-157

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Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 05-November-2025

Abstract: Background: Cervical cancer remains a major global health concern, with over 85% of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries. In Rwanda, 70.3% of women diagnosed with cervical cancer die from the disease, while screening coverage among women aged 30–49 years remains low (23–28.3%). This study assessed the magnitude and factors associated with cervical cancer screening uptake among women in Burera District.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 women aged 30–49 years in five selected health facilities. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to determine factors associated with screening uptake.

Results: The cervical cancer screening rate was 31.6%. Factors significantly associated with screening included marital status (AOR = 3.08, 95% CI: 2.27–7.15), education level (AOR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.03–0.57), knowledge about screening (AOR = 3.13, 95% CI: 1.21–46.59), screening method (AOR = 4.16, 95% CI: 2.25–10.11), male partner support (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.50–7.21), distance to facility (AOR = 14.21, 95% CI: 2.16–93.68), availability of trained staff (AOR = 3.86, 95% CI: 1.99–15.04), media exposure (AOR = 3.80, 95% CI: 2.01–7.21), and health facility visit in the past year (AOR = 31.36, 95% CI: 12.04–81.66).

Conclusion: Cervical cancer screening uptake in Burera District (31.6%) remains far below Rwanda’s 70% target. Improving awareness, enhancing provider training, involving male partners, and decentralizing services could enhance screening coverage.

Keywords: Cervical cancer, Screening uptake, Determinants, Burera District, Rwanda.

Title: CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG WOMEN AGED 30-49 IN BURERA DISTRICT

Author: Oscar Ndahayo, Ammanuel Kidane Andegiorgish

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 133-143

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 03-November-2025

Abstract: Despite ongoing interventions, many adolescents still face challenges in accessing and utilizing SRH services due to various socio-cultural, institutional, and personal constraints. Adolescent fertility rates remain high globally, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, necessitating further research to identify effective strategies for improving SRH service uptake. This research aims to investigate the factors influencing adolescents’ awareness, perceptions, and use of SRH services in selected health centers within Kicukiro District, Rwanda. This study covered significant gaps in adolescents’ knowledge and access to SRH services, with socio-cultural beliefs, stigma, and concerns about confidentiality emerging as key obstacles. Moreover, the availability of youth-friendly SRH services may be found to be inadequate, leading to reduced utilization. A cross-sectional research design was applied, utilizing structured questionnaires to gather quantitative data from adolescents, while key informant interviews with healthcare providers provided qualitative insights. The sample size was computed based on a 95% CI and the margin of error of 5%. SPSS software was used for data analysis like means, and percentages and inferential statistics. Among the respondents, 63.5% (n=244) had ever utilized SRH services, while 36.5% (n=140) had not. Utilization was significantly associated with age, gender, place of residence, and parental discussion on reproductive health (p<0.05). Adolescents aged 16-17 years (OR=2.64, 95% CI: 1.49-4.67) and 18-19 years (OR=2.93, 95% CI: 1.52-5.66) were more likely to use SRH services compared to those aged 13-15 years. Females were more likely to utilize services than males (OR=3.19, 95% CI: 2.00-5.10). Urban residents were more likely to access services compared to rural adolescents (OR=0.40, 95% CI: 0.21-0.78). Parental discussion on reproductive health significantly increased service utilization (OR=0.38, 95% CI: 0.22-0.64). Utilization was also more likely when SRH services were well-known and viewed favorably. According to the study, adolescents in Kicukiro District had a moderate level of awareness of SRH services but a comparatively high consumption rate. Key determinants of utilization included age, gender, urban residence, parental discussion, and positive attitude towards SRH services. Interventions to improve adolescent SRH service utilization should focus on enhancing parental engagement, targeting younger adolescents, promoting positive attitudes, and addressing barriers in rural areas. Health education programs should be strengthened in schools and communities to increase awareness and access to youth-friendly SRH services.

Keywords: (MeSH): Reproductive Health Services, Adolescents, Utilization of Sexual.

Title: Determinants of Adolescents’ Awareness and Utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services in Health Centers in Kicukiro District, Rwanda, 2025

Author: Jeanne UWIMBABAZI, Dr Amos HABIMANA

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 116-132

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 31-October-2025

Abstract: Hair is an imperative part of human body. Due to use of various chemicals and synthetic compounds it usually causes destructive effects. The extensive use of chemical-laden hair care products often leads to detrimental effects on hair health. In response, this study formulates a herbal hair gel using flaxseed, Tridex procumbens, and Jatamansi to promote hair nourishment, prevent hair loss, and strengthen hair. Flaxseed's hydrating and antioxidant properties, Tridex procumbens hair growth promoting activity, and Jatamansi's nourishing effects synergistically work together to create a holistic hair care solution. The optimized formulation, code F4, demonstrates desirable physical parameters including pH, viscosity, spreadability, homogeneity, and stability, with no skin irritation and excellent washability. This herbal hair gel offers a natural and effective alternative for individuals seeking to revitalize and promote healthy hair growth.

Keywords: Flaxseed, Jatamansi, Tridex Procumbens, Gel formulation, Herbal cosmetics, Hair growth promoting activity, nourishment, strengthening.

Title: Formulation and Evaluation of Bioactive Herbal Hair Gel for Hair Care Application

Author: Ms. Mayuri M. Ban, Ms. Chanchal Gupta, Mr. Gajanan Ghuge

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

Page No: 100-115  

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 31-October-2025