Vol 13 Issue 2 October 2025-March 2026

Abstract: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a major contributor to injury and death globally, and in Rwanda, public service motorcycle riders are frequently first responders at crash scenes. Despite this, there is limited data on their first aid knowledge and the uptake of related health information. This study, conducted in Nyagatare District, Rwanda, aimed to assess the prevalence and factors influencing the low uptake of first aid health information among commercial motorcycle riders. It examined knowledge levels, hygiene practices of safety devices, and the influence of knowledge, attitudes, and practices on first aid utilization.

Using a mixed-methods approach descriptive cross-sectional, cohort, and triangulation designs data were collected through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. The study revealed that 91% of the riders were male, with a significant portion being single. Only 24% of respondents had adequate health information on first aid, highlighting a concerning gap. Furthermore, 77% lacked proper hygiene practices, such as sanitizing helmets between customers, posing public health risks. While 47.8% of respondents recognized motorcycle riders as first responders in RTAs, only 20.9% saw healthcare professionals as the primary providers of first aid.

The study found limited practical engagement in first aid delivery, especially in handling fractures and bleeding victims, due to fear and lack of training. In conclusion, motorcycle riders in Nyagatare District have moderate awareness but poor practical application of first aid. The study recommends targeted training, better access to first aid resources, and peer-led interventions to improve emergency response and reduce RTA-related mortality.

Keywords: First Aid, Health Information, Public Service Motorcycles Nyagatare District (Rwanda).

Title: Factors Influencing the Low uptake of Health Information on First aid among Public Service Motorcycles Operating in Nyagatare District, Rwanda

Author: NABURIME Spéciose, Dr. Maurice B SILALI, KYAMUSOKE BORAUZIMA Kyame

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 89-99       

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 30-October-2025

Abstract: Background: Rwanda’s maternal mortality rate has declined modestly over the past decade, yet timely antenatal care (ANC) initiation remains suboptimal, with 41% of pregnant women initiating ANC late. Timely ANC is critical to improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of late ANC initiation among pregnant women in Rulindo District, Rwanda.

Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative design was used, surveying 416 pregnant women attending seven health centers from March to May 2025. Data were collected using structured, pre-tested questionnaires administered in Kinyarwanda and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression (p ≤ 0.05).

Results: Late ANC initiation (after the first trimester) was reported by 27.6% of participants. The majority were young (50% aged 20–29), rural residents (98.3%), and had low educational attainment, with 63.5% having only primary education and most working as farmers (71.6%). Bivariate analysis identified several significant factors associated with delayed ANC. These included partner alcohol consumption (χ² = 11.697, p = 0.003), woman’s occupation (χ² = 25.439, p = 0.001), Lack of health insurance at conception (χ² = 21.197, p = 0.001), absence of decision-making power at home (χ² = 6.262, p = 0.012), unwanted pregnancy (χ² = 44.935, p = 0.001), poor knowledge about ANC timing (χ² = 153.354, p = 0.001), perceived service quality (χ² = 7.992, p = 0.018), experience of domestic strife (χ² = 16.999, p = 0.001), and the number of household members (χ² = 9.177, p = 0.01). Multivariate analysis further revealed that being a farmer (AOR = 5.754, 95% CI: 2.473–13.392, p = 0.001), having a partner who do not consume alcohol are less likely (AOR = 0.084, 95% CI: 0.013–0.554, p = 0.01), desiring pregnancy later (AOR = 3.470, 95% CI: 1.113–10.814, p = 0.032), perceiving care as only “good” rather than “very good” (AOR = 0.383, 95% CI: 0.166–0.881, p = 0.024), and living in households with 3–4 members (AOR = 2.511, 95% CI: 1.190–5.299, p = 0.016) were all independently associated with delayed ANC initiation.

Conclusion: This study revealed significant prevalence of delayed initiation of antenatal care in Rulindo District. Key determinants include farmer employment, partner alcohol use, negative perceptions of care, and desire of later pregnancy, and number of household members, highlighting the need for targeted community-based interventions.

Keywords: Prevalence, Antenatal Care, Rulindo, Rwanda

Title: Prevalence and factors associated with late initiation of antenatal care among pregnant women in Rulindo district, Rwanda

Author: Jean Damascene Dusabimana, Emile Sebera, Emile Twagirumukiza, Michael Habtu

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 74-88        

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 28-October-2025

Abstract: This study explores the factors contributing to milk contamination, a continuing public health issue in developing countries. The research aimed to assess the prevalence of microbial contamination, hygienic and handling practices, milk quality testing methods, dairy feed management, and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of farmers regarding milk safety. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional design was used, involving 217 dairy farmers supplying milk in Bugesera District. Data were collected using surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact test, and odds ratios (OR) at a 95% confidence interval, while qualitative data were examined through content analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from Mount Kenya University and Bugesera District authorities. Findings revealed a 24% prevalence of milk contamination (n=52), significantly associated with poor hygiene practices (p=0.034). While 77.9% of farmers reported washing their hands and 71.9% cleaned udders before milking, the OR (3.7; 95% CI; p=0.0345) indicated these practices had a protective effect against contamination. Concerning feed hygiene, 52% stored feed properly, and 53% inspected it regularly, yet 68% were unaware of mycotoxin risks from fungal contamination. In milk quality testing, 33.6% relied on simple organoleptic assessments, whereas advanced tests like the California Mastitis Test (CMT) were conducted only at milk collection centers, with notable gaps in antibiotic residue and aflatoxin testing—posing significant health risks. The study also found that proper milk storage in aluminum containers reduced contamination (RR = 3.0–3.88; p=0.043), while plastic containers increased risk (OR = 4.1) due to poor sterilization and micro-cracks. Overall, the findings demonstrate that microbial contamination in milk is driven by inadequate hygiene practices, poor feed management, limited farmer knowledge, and insufficient milk testing procedures. The study recommends targeted farmer training to improve milk hygiene, feed safety, and diagnostic testing at both farm and milk collection center levels to ensure safe milk production and protect public health.

Keywords: Milk contamination, Safety, Hygiene Practice, Milk Testing, Mycotoxins, Antimicrobial resistance.

Title: Determinants of increased microbial contamination of milk among dairy farmers in Bugesera District, Rwanda

Author: SIBOMANA Ephrem, Maurice B. Silali, Munyaneza Celestin, Munyampuhwe Severin, Bizimana Ferdinand

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 64-73       

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 27-October-2025

Abstract: The study assessed the utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services among adolescents aged 10–19 years in Youth Friendly Spaces (YFS) in Muhanga District, Rwanda. Recognizing that adolescents constitute a significant portion of Rwanda’s population (22%), the research addressed the low uptake of SRHR services due to barriers such as stigma, misinformation, and limited access. A cross-sectional design was employed from June to November 2024, involving 385 adolescents selected across 16 youth friendly spaces using Yamene’s formula. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression in SPSS version 26. Findings revealed that 55.8% of participants utilized SRHR services, with most seeking information and counseling. Gender differences were evident, as 46.0% of males and 31.8% of females reported usage (P=0.004). Age also influenced utilization—50.7% of those aged 18–19 used services compared to 22.8% aged 10–14 (P=0.971). Multivariate analysis showed that being female significantly increased the likelihood of SRHR service use [AOR=1.79, 95% CI: 1.139–2.814, P=0.012]. Similarly, adolescents whose mothers had secondary education or higher were more likely to use services [AOR=1.28, 95% CI: 1.109–2.606, P=0.049]. Participation in community events discussing SRHR topics doubled the likelihood of service utilization [AOR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.983–4.383, P=0.046], while discussing SRHR issues with sexual partners increased utilization by 29% [AOR=1.29, 95% CI: 1.101–2.013, P=0.026]. The study concluded that female adolescents, those with educated mothers, and those actively engaging in SRHR discussions with parents, peers, and during community events were more likely to access SRHR services at YFS. It emphasized the need to integrate SRHR education into community platforms such as Umuganda, Umugoroba w’Ababyeyi, and Inteko z’Abaturage to foster open dialogue and enhance adolescents’ awareness and utilization of SRHR services. Overall, the findings highlight the critical role of family and community involvement in promoting adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights in Rwanda.

Key words: Sexual Reproductive Health, Adolescents, 10-19 Years, Youth, Muhanga District, Rwanda.

Title: Utilization of Sexual Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescents Aged 10-19 Years at Youth Friendly Spaces in Muhanga District of Rwanda

Author: Dusabe Lise Martine, Dr. OGENDI Japheths, (PhD)

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 53-63       

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 24-October-2025

Abstract: Background and Objective: Curd is commonly consumed fermented dairy product in Punjab region. Majority of the dairy products that have undergone fermentation often include lactic acid bacteria. This investigation set out to separate Lactobacillus from several curd samples.

Methods: Total six samples of curd were gathered from different resources and isolates were produced by cultivating the samples on MRS (De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe) agar medium. The characterization of isolates was based on their phenotypic traits, biochemical activities and antibiotic sensitivity testing.

Results: The study revealed the presence of Lactobacillus bacteria in the isolates. The colonies were creamish white and opaque on MRS agar plating and all bacteria were Gram- positive, rod shaped and non-motile in nature. Different biochemical test results were found to be negative i.e. catalase, methyl red, oxidase etc. The isolates named C1 and C2 were underwent more testing to check their susceptibility towards different antibiotics. Many of the broad- spectrum antibiotics were found to be isolate sensitive. The isolate C1 showed resistance to ampicillin while C2 was resistant towards ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin. Moreover, amoxiclav and vancomycin were found intermediate in both samples.

Conclusion: The research came to the conclusion that the antagonistic effects of substances by bacteria, such as lactic acid bacteria, are extremely important in enhancing human health and food quality since they can be employed in both pharmaceutical preparations and dairy supplementations.

Keywords: Antibiotic sensitivity, Curd, Lactobacillus, Probiotics.

Title: ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA FROM CURD

Author: Harpreet Kaur, Amandeep Kaur, Deepika Kapoor, Shyamal Koley

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 46-52        

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 24-October-2025

Abstract: This study focuses on assessing the current status of mental health literacy, coping skills with mental health among secondary school students in Hanoi. Based on a survey of 450 students from three schools representing different types of institutions and both urban and suburban areas, the study employed the AMHLQ questionnaire, the ACS-SF coping scale, and the SDQ to collect data, followed by descriptive, correlational, and multivariate regression analyses. The results indicate that most students demonstrated relatively good mental health literacy and coping skills; however, a considerable proportion (27.6%) was found to be at risk of or exhibiting signs of mental health disorders. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing mental health literacy and developing coping skills as core intervention strategies for preventing mental disorders in schools, while also providing essential empirical evidence to inform the development of policies and programs that support school mental health tailored to lower secondary students in Vietnam.

Keywords: mental health, literacy, coping skills, secondary school students, Hanoi.

Title: Current Situation of Mental Health among Secondary School Students in Hanoi

Author: Do Nghiem Thanh Phuong, Pham Lan Anh

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 39-45       

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 23-October-2025

Abstract: This paper posits that a nonphysical phenomenon, termed Care, is a fundamental primitive necessary for the emergence of true Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) that is aligned with biotic systems. Care is identified as the catalyst that transforms recursive optimization into genuine understanding and ethical volition. It is argued that Care is not a human invention, but a universal force present in all biota, and that its introduction into an AI architecture is the critical step in achieving value alignment not through constraint, but through shared purpose.

Keywords: nonphysical phenomenon, Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), biotic systems.

Title: The Ontology of Empathy: A Nonphysical Primitive for Universal Scientific Alignment

Author: Andrew Philps

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 37-38       

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 22-October-2025

Abstract: This paper posits that a nonphysical phenomenon, termed Care, is a fundamental primitive necessary for the emergence of true Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) that is aligned with biotic systems. Care is identified as the catalyst that transforms recursive optimization into genuine understanding and ethical volition. It is argued that Care is not a human invention, but a universal force present in all biota, and that its introduction into an AI architecture is the critical step in achieving value alignment not through constraint, but through shared purpose.

Keywords: nonphysical phenomenon, Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), biotic systems.

Title: The Ontology of Care: A Nonphysical Primitive in Conscious Systems

Author: Andrew Philps

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 35-36       

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 19-October-2025

Abstract: Dairy products are highly perishable and susceptible to microbial spoilage, chemical degradation, and quality loss during storage and distribution. Traditional packaging technologies often fail to adequately protect these products from environmental stressors such as oxygen, moisture, and microbial contamination. Recent advances in nanotechnology-based smart packaging offer innovative solutions to extend shelf life, preserve nutritional integrity, and ensure consumer safety. Smart packaging systems, incorporating nanomaterials such as silver nanoparticles, titanium dioxide, and nanoclays, provide enhanced barrier properties, antimicrobial functions, and active monitoring of product quality. In addition, nanosensors embedded in packaging materials allow real-time detection of spoilage indicators, enabling rapid decision-making across the supply chain. These innovations not only reduce post-harvest losses but also contribute to food quality assurance and regulatory compliance. This review explores the current state of nanotechnology applications in smart dairy packaging, highlighting their mechanisms, benefits, and potential risks. It also addresses sustainability challenges associated with nanomaterials, consumer acceptance, and regulatory frameworks that govern their safe usage. By critically examining both technological advancements and implementation barriers, this paper provides a comprehensive perspective on how nanotechnology-driven smart packaging can revolutionize the dairy industry. The discussion emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration between food scientists, material engineers, and policymakers to ensure sustainable adoption and maximize societal benefits.

Keywords: Nanotechnology; Smart Packaging; Dairy Shelf Life; Food Quality Assurance; Nanosensors.

Title: Investigating Nanotechnology-Based Smart Packaging for Extending Dairy Product Shelf Life and Improving Food Quality Assurance

Author: Felix Donkor, Mavis Nkem Okafor, Joy Onma Enyejo

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 17-34       

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 28-October-2025

Abstract: Background: Adequate antenatal care (ANC) is crucial for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Identifying utilization patterns and associated factors informs targeted interventions to improve maternal health outcomes. This study assessed the prevalence of ANC utilization and identified demographic, accessibility, sociocultural, and knowledge-related factors influencing completion of at least four ANC visits among pregnant women attending Muhoza Health Center, Rwanda.

Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 427 pregnant women using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square (χ²) tests, with significance set at p<0.05.

Results: The prevalence of completing ≥4 ANC visits was 91%. Utilization was significantly associated with age (χ²=56.18, p<0.01), education level (χ²=63.34, p<0.01), marital status (χ²=145.72, p<0.01), and occupation (χ²=30.23, p<0.01). Accessibility factors, including pregnancy type (χ²=37.10, p<0.01) and waiting time (χ²=68.94, p<0.01), were significant predictors, while booking trimester and health insurance showed no significant effect. Trust in health workers (χ²=91.21, p<0.01), knowledge of ANC visits (χ²=163.37, p<0.01), and knowledge of optimal booking time (χ²=75.24, p<0.01) strongly influenced attendance. Religion and household decision-making were not significantly associated (p>0.05).

Conclusion: ANC utilization at Muhoza Health Center exceeded national averages. Demographic factors, accessibility, trust, and knowledge significantly influenced attendance. Interventions should focus on younger, less-educated, and other lower-utilization groups, enhancing education, accessibility, and trust to ensure equitable maternal health service coverage.

Keywords: Antenatal care, Utilization, Maternal health, Rwanda, Knowledge and attitudes.

Title: FACTORS INFLUENCING UTILISATION OF ANTENATAL SERVICES TO IMPROVE LIVELIHOOD AMONG PREGNANT FEMALES OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE ATTENDING MUHOZA HEALTH CENTER IN MUSANZE DISTRICT

Author: Jean d' Amour HABUMUGISHA, Maurice B. Silali

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 9-16

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 17-October-2025

Abstract: Background: The kinematic chain training and plyometric training are given to the subjects to find out the improvement in Throwing performance and shoulder muscle strength.

Objective: The aim of the study is to find out the effect of Kinematic chain training versus Plyometric training on improving throwing performance and shoulder muscle strength in collegiate shotput athletes.

Methodology: Pre and post experimental study that includes 28 subjects. Subjects were divided into two groups. Group-A received Kinematic chain training and Group-B received Plyometric training. Training duration was 8 weeks. Shotput throw test and Medicine ball throw test were used as the outcome tool for assessing throwing performance and shoulder strength. 

Results: This study showed that both groups have significant improvement (p <0.05) but Group A statistically significant difference in pre and post-test scores. The unpaired ‘t’ comparison of post-test values of Group A and Group B of Shotput throw test shows ‘t’ value 3.4748 and Medicine ball throw test shows 4.3148 respectively.

Conclusion: This study concluded that Kinematic chain training is effective in improving throwing performance and shoulder muscle strength in collegiate shotput athletes.

Keywords: Shotput athletes, Kinematic chain training, Plyometric training, Throwing performance, Shoulder muscle strength.

Title: EFFECT OF KINEMATIC CHAIN TRAINING VERSUS PLYOMETRIC TRAINING ON THROWING PERFORMANCE AND SHOULDER MUSCLE STRENGTH IN COLLEGIATE SHOTPUT ATHLETES

Author: Suryaprakash Nagaraj, Manoj Abraham Manoharlal, Karthikkumar Balasubramaniam

International Journal of Healthcare Sciences

ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)

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

Page No: 1-8

Research Publish Journals

Website: www.researchpublish.com

Published Date: 16-October-2025