Orapuh Journal

The Allopathic Practitioners’ Awareness, Knowledge, and Use of Traditional Child Healthcare Practices in Tshwane District, Gauteng Province, South Africa

Eugene Musiwa Makhavhu — 2025-05-31

Introduction

Traditional healthcare practices, including cultural rituals and the use of traditional medicine, are common among Africans. Some caregivers use both traditional and allopathic medicine for child health; however, they are reluctant to disclose this to allopathic practitioners, fearing negative judgment. This lack of openness causes tension between the two systems and creates a barrier to successful and safe integration.

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to explore allopathic healthcare practitioners' awareness, knowledge, and utilization of traditional child healthcare practices in a township setting in South Africa.

Methods

A quantitative exploratory and descriptive design was employed in this study. An all-inclusive sampling technique was applied to select 70 allopathic practitioners; however, only 54 participated. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using SPSS.

Results

Most (98.1%) practitioners were nurses, with one medical officer (1.9%). Results revealed that 77.4% of practitioners were aware of traditional healthcare practices used for child health, with 72.2% identifying specific childhood conditions, such as hlogwana (sunken fontanelle), believed to be treatable only by traditional methods. Practitioners with 0–10 years (25.9%) and 11–20 years (27.7%) of experience knew of children’s illnesses that are believed to be treatable only by traditional health practices, χ²(12, N = 54) = 28.018, p = .021.^1 Notably, 56.6% of respondents reported having used traditional practices themselves, with utilisation significantly associated with older age, χ²(12, N = 53) = 24.143, p = .019.^2

Conclusion

The findings show allopathic practitioners’ knowledge, awareness, and use of traditional health practices. They reveal the coexistence of traditional and allopathic healthcare systems in South Africa, driven by cultural familiarity, accessibility, and generational practices. However, tensions persist due to allopathic practitioners' lack of knowledge about potential herb–drug interactions and the stigmatization surrounding traditional medicine. To enhance allopathic practitioners' cultural competence, there is a need to integrate traditional healthcare practices into medical and nursing curricula; develop continuous professional development programmes on traditional medicine's benefits and risks; and create forums for exchanging knowledge between traditional healers and allopathic practitioners to ensure patient safety.

Need for nurses’ education on pressure ulcer prevention in bedridden patients at the General Reference Hospital, Kinshasa, DRC

Jean-Paul DIWOTO DOWO — 2025-05-31

Introduction

The Provincial General Reference Hospital of Kinshasa, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, continues to face challenges in preventing pressure ulcers among bedridden patients. These wounds compromise not only patient comfort and safety but also reflect the overall quality of nursing care delivered in intensive care settings. Despite the availability of basic prevention guidelines, pressure ulcers remain a frequent issue, particularly in the intensive care unit (ICU), where patients are more vulnerable. Strengthening the capacity of nurses to apply preventive measures is crucial for improving outcomes.

Purpose

This study aimed to address the following research question: What are the learning needs of ICU nurses in preventing pressure ulcers? Identifying these needs is essential for developing targeted training interventions that are responsive to the realities of ICU nursing practice. The objective was to explore and describe these learning needs in a way that informs practical, context-adapted strategies for enhancing prevention efforts at the hospital level.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach was adopted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six ICU nurses selected via purposive sampling to ensure relevant experience with bedridden patients. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically to identify common patterns and expressed needs. This method enabled a rich, contextual understanding of the nurses’ perspectives.

Results

Three main learning needs emerged from the analysis: (1) a clearer understanding of the stages of pressure ulcer development, (2) effective repositioning techniques, and (3) proper use of specialised equipment. Nurses also reported gaps in translating knowledge into consistent practice, primarily due to lack of training. Additionally, they expressed interest in regular, structured sessions to reinforce best practices and update skills. These findings suggest that ongoing training could directly reduce the incidence of preventable ulcers.

Conclusion

Based on the findings, two priority actions are recommended: (1) implementation of monthly in-service training workshops tailored to pressure ulcer prevention, and (2) provision of appropriate repositioning aids to support evidence-based nursing practices. These interventions are expected to strengthen clinical competencies, promote proactive care, and reduce complications associated with immobility—ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and enhanced quality of care.

Impact of dyslipidemia on cochleovestibular disorders in diabetic patients attending ENT Services at Boyambi Hospital, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Henriette Mudwanga Linda — 2025-06-07

Introduction

Cochlear and vestibular disorders, particularly hearing loss, represent a public health concern in diabetic patients. Several factors may be responsible for this condition, including dyslipidemia (blood lipid imbalance).

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of dyslipidemia on cochleovestibular disorders in diabetic patients attending ENT services at Boyambi Hospital, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Methods

A cross-sectional study with analytical aims was conducted. All subjects underwent a thorough ENT examination to screen for cochleovestibular disorders and assess lipid levels. The collected data were analysed using SPSS 26.0 software.

Results

A total of 179 diabetic patients were included in this study, of whom 145 (81%) had type 2 diabetes mellitus and 34 (19%) had type 1 diabetes. Females were more represented (107; 59.8%). The mean patient age was 53±14 years. Hearing loss was the most common cochlear disorder (93.3%), while vertigo was the most prevalent vestibular disorder (20.7%). The Barany caloric test was abnormal in 12.8% of patients.

Conclusion

Diabetes mellitus characterised by a blood sugar level from 226 mg/dl and a glycated haemoglobin level greater than 7% is correlated with the occurrence of cochleovestibular disorders.

Comparative in vitro dissolution profiles of marketed Artemether–Lumefantrine adult-dose tablets in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Gloria Bujo Dhimbe — 2025-06-10

Introduction

Despite advances in clinical care, therapeutic strategies, and governmental interventions, malaria remains a significant public health concern—particularly in Africa, which consistently ranks highest in global morbidity and mortality reports from the World Health Organization. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), malaria is one of the leading causes of medical consultations. This is largely due to the ineffectiveness of some antimalarial medications, which are often of substandard quality, contributing to therapeutic failures and the emergence of drug-resistant Plasmodium strains. Artemisinin derivatives are the mainstay of antimalarial therapy, with artemether–lumefantrine being the most commonly used oral formulation.

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro dissolution profiles of various artemether–lumefantrine brands available on the Congolese pharmaceutical market.

Methods

Fourteen brands of artemether–lumefantrine tablets at 80/480 mg and two at 20/120 mg dosage strengths were subjected to pharmaceutical quality control tests, including mass uniformity, friability, and disintegration. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD). Dissolution testing was conducted in 0.005 M HCl with 2% Myrj 52 at pH 1.2. Comparative dissolution profiles were assessed using similarity (f₂) and difference (f₁) factors.

Results

All samples complied with pharmaco-technical standards and demonstrated dissolution profiles comparable to the reference formulation (f₁ < 15; f₂ ≥ 50).

Conclusion

The artemether–lumefantrine generics available on the Kinshasa market exhibit similar in vitro dissolution characteristics to the reference product, supporting their potential interchangeability.

Lipid profile of people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy monitored in a hospital setting in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Théophile M. MITEWU — 2025-06-20

Introduction

HIV/AIDS is a global epidemic and remains a major public health concern. Although there is no cure, HIV infection has become a chronic condition thanks to effective treatment and care. Despite the beneficial effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART), metabolic abnormalities such as dyslipidaemia are increasingly reported. To date, no studies have been conducted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the lipid profile of people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Purpose

This study aimed to describe the lipid profile of PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy monitored in a hospital setting in Kinshasa.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted. The study population comprised PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy, followed in a hospital setting in Kinshasa. Data were collected using a structured data collection form from eligible individuals who had provided informed consent. Lipid profile assessment was conducted on fasting samples.

Results

A total of 407 patients were included in the study, with a predominance of women (70.3%). The mean age was 50.2 ± 12.3 years. Total hypercholesterolaemia was observed in 51 patients (25.2%), LDL hypercholesterolaemia in 20 patients (9.9%), HDL hypocholesterolaemia in 68 patients (27.87%), and hypertriglyceridaemia in 29 patients (14.4%).

Conclusion

The lipid profile of patients on antiretroviral therapy in this study was marked by the presence of dyslipidaemia. Male sex, age over 50 years, hypertension, and alcohol consumption were associated factors in the development of lipid abnormalities among PLHIV.

Physico-chemical and microbiological characterization of dairy effluents and water from the N'Djili River in the city of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

MUAMBA Nadine Bipendu — 2025-06-20

Introduction

Dairy effluents essentially contain water and diluted milk or dairy product residues. They can also be sources of high levels of phosphorus and other major ions, which may lead to disturbances in the environments where they are discharged.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to carry out a physico-chemical and microbiological characterization of dairy product effluents and water from the N'Djili River in the city of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, in order to assess the possible hazards posed by these effluents to the environment, particularly at their point of discharge, the N'Djili River.

Methods

Physical parameters were assessed in situ using an appropriate multi-parameter probe. Chemical parameters were determined spectrophotometrically, and microbiological parameters were determined by membrane filtration followed by culture of the samples to be analyzed.

Results

The results obtained show that, with the exception of a few microbiological parameters, the highest concentrations of the parameters analyzed were found in dairy effluents compared with water from the N'Djili River. Average conductivity and turbidity values showed that dairy effluents (cleaning effluents: 3998.7 ± 0.95 µS/cm conductivity and 1995.4 ± 6.44 ppm turbidity; raw effluents: 896.05 ± 0.95 µS/cm conductivity and 464.5 ± 86.7 ppm turbidity) were more mineralized, saltier, and more turbid than N'Djili River water (site 2: 273.33 ± 13.42 µS/cm and site 1: 124.25 ± 4.74 µS/cm). The biodegradability index values for dairy effluents indicated that they were biodegradable, with values ranging from 1.48 to 1.50. Generally speaking, high loads of total germs, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and moulds were reported in the dairy effluents examined.

Conclusion

The results of this study are of great importance in biotechnology for the implementation of biological treatment techniques for the effluents studied. They highlight the need for reducing the load of organic and inorganic matter as well as microorganisms that can contribute to the degradation of receiving environments and their resources.

Assessment of cataract and glaucoma knowledge, attitudes, and practices among students at the University of Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Yvon Babundo Kabu Eanga — 2025-06-20

Introduction

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by optic disc excavation and visual field loss, primarily due to elevated intraocular pressure. The knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the population regarding cataract are essential in strategies for blindness prevention and control.

Purpose

This study was carried out to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to cataract and glaucoma among students of the University of Mbandaka in DR Congo.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study. Data were collected using an interview-administered questionnaire on cataract and glaucoma from 15 August to 15 November 2023. Out of 4,012 students admitted (2022–2023), 645 students agreed to participate and responded to a pre-tested structured questionnaire through face-to-face interviews. Data were entered into Excel 2010 and exported to SPSS version 21. The level of statistical significance was set at p < .05.

Results

Among the 645 respondents, 67.6% were men (sex ratio M/F: 2:1). The mean age of respondents was 27.4 ± 9.5 years (min–max: 18–56 years; median: 23 years). A large proportion of the respondents (60%) had good knowledge about cataract (definition, type, information); however, their knowledge about cataract complications and treatment was poor. Similarly, 60% of respondents had good knowledge about glaucoma (definition, type, information). However, a significant portion of participants had poor knowledge of glaucoma treatment (53%), lesion site (51.8%), complications (50%), and definition (37.9%). The following variables—male students, students from the medical school, and students in B2 bachelor and law faculties—were significantly associated with good knowledge of cataract and glaucoma.

Conclusion

We believe that eye care providers should make use of the good level of knowledge among students of the University of Mbandaka when planning health education campaigns related to cataract and glaucoma, as well as activities for blindness prevention in the province of Equateur.

Knowledge, perceptions, and interest of referring physicians regarding the implementation of Artificial Intelligence in CT Imaging in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Tacite Kpanya Mazoba — 2025-06-20

Introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into medical imaging, including computed tomography (CT); however, its uptake remains limited in low-resource settings such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Understanding physicians’ knowledge, perceptions, and interest is essential for guiding effective implementation strategies.

Purpose

To assess levels of knowledge, perception, and interest regarding AI integration in CT imaging among physicians in the DRC, and to identify relevant demographic and professional correlates.

Methods

A cross-sectional electronic survey was conducted between September and December 2024 among 740 physicians across the DRC. The questionnaire captured sociodemographic information and assessed AI-related knowledge (using a scored set of objective items, with ≥50% considered acceptable), perception, and interest (using 5-point Likert scales). Bivariate analyses (Chi-square and t-tests) and multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify predictors of high knowledge, favourable perception, and strong interest.

Results

Among participants, 64.9% were aged 35 years or younger, 67.6% were male, 70.9% practised in Kinshasa, and 65.1% were general practitioners. Acceptable knowledge was observed in 54.7% of respondents. Favourable perception and strong interest were reported by 46.2% and 66.8% of respondents, respectively. In adjusted analyses, being under 36 years, having ≤15 years of professional experience, working as a general practitioner, and practising in a provincial setting were significantly associated with higher levels of knowledge, perception, or interest (p < .05).

Conclusion

Early-career physicians, general practitioners, and those practising outside the capital appear more receptive to AI in CT imaging. These findings highlight the importance of targeted training initiatives and policy engagement to promote equitable and effective AI integration in medical imaging across the DRC.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of oral hygiene among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado, Ekiti State, Nigeria

Adeshola Adelekan Ajetunmobi — 2025-06-23

Introduction

Oral health during pregnancy is a critical component of maternal and child health due to its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight. Poor oral hygiene increases the risk of periodontal disease and related complications, yet maternal oral health remains underemphasized in antenatal care in many parts of Nigeria.

Purpose

This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of oral hygiene among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 171 pregnant women recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated, structured questionnaire and analysed with SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, while Pearson correlation examined associations between KAP scores.

Results

Most respondents (69.6%) had moderate knowledge of oral hygiene, and attitudes were generally positive (mean score = 3.78). However, practices were suboptimal, with low mean scores for brushing twice daily (2.91) and use of dental floss (2.83). Statistically significant positive correlations were found between knowledge and attitude (r = .43, p < .001), knowledge and practice (r = .39, p < .001), and attitude and practice (r = .41, p < .001).

Conclusion

Although pregnant women demonstrated moderate knowledge and favourable attitudes toward oral hygiene, their practices did not align. Integrating oral health education into antenatal care and strengthening community-based oral health promotion initiatives are recommended to improve maternal oral health outcomes in the study setting.

Ending nuclear weapons, before they end us

Kamran Abbasi — 2025-06-23

A worldwide nuclear arms race is underway. Deployed nuclear weapons are increasing again, and China, India, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, and the United Kingdom are all enlarging their arsenals. An estimated 2,100 nuclear warheads in France, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and, for the first time, also in China, are on high alert, ready for launch within minutes. With disarmament in reverse, extensive nuclear modernisations underway, multiple arms control treaties abrogated without replacement, no disarmament negotiations in evidence, nuclear-armed Russia and Israel engaged in active wars involving repeated nuclear threats, Russia and the United States deploying nuclear weapons to additional states, and widespread use of cyberwarfare, the risk of nuclear war is widely assessed to be greater than ever. This year, the Doomsday Clock was moved the closest to midnight since the clock's founding in 1947.