School of Public Health (Public-Health)

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    Communityawareness about household air pollution and associated respiratory symptoms in Namuwongo slum,Makindye division,Kampala.
    (Suzan Mutoni, 2018-12) Mutoni, Suzan
    ABSTRACT Background Household air pollution (HAP) is one of the world’s Environmental Health problem. The use of solid fuels is associated with non-communicable diseases including stroke, ischaemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. However, whether the extent to which slum residents are exposed to household air pollution as well as whether slum residents are aware of the risks associated with the exposure have not been studied. Namuwongo slum is one of the suburb in Kampala beset with difficulties in air pollution both Household and outdoor air pollution. This research provided evidence based information on the common biomass fuel used in Namuwongo slum, the awareness levels about HAP, and the common respiratory symptoms faced by the people in the slum. Objective The main objective of the study was to assess community awareness about household air pollution and associated respiratory symptoms among adults in Namuwongo slum, Makindye division, Kampala Uganda Methods It was a mixed method study conducted in Namuwongo slum in Makindye division, Kampala among the households. The study included 227 respondents and two focus groups discussions. Quantitative data was collected using a pretested, semi structured questionnaire uploaded on epicollect5 web and mobile application. Qualitative data was collected using focus group discussion guide. Quantitative data was cleaned and analysed using STATA 13.0 to generate the frequencies and percentages which were presented in frequency Tables, and Graphs. Qualitative data was transcribed to generate transcripts. The transcripts were read through several times to generate themes. The categories of the themes were interpreted for their descriptive meaning and the quotes from the content were presented in the result section.
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    Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of cooks towards Safe water maintenance in primary schools in Kamukuzi and Kakoba divisions, Mbarara Municipality, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2019) Ainebyoona, Antony
    Introduction Water related diseases are mostly associated with consumption of contaminated water and are prevalent among young populations who according to the Ugandan education system, make up the largest percentage of the primary education level, where most of their time is spent in schools. This puts schools in a position to ensure that they provide safe water for drinking to the pupils and also ensure the availability of clean containers and storage facilities that minimise contamination. While at school, contamination of water along the water chain is largely attributed to school cooks who collect, transport and treat water making it necessary to study their behaviour in relation to the maintenance of the safe water chain. Objective The study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices of cooks towards the maintenance of the safe water chain in primary schools in Kamukuzi and Kakoba divisions, Mbarara Municipality so as to inform policy formulations into management of the safe water chain in schools. Methodology This was a descriptive cross-sectional study that utilized a semi structured questionnaire to collect quantitative data from 93 respondents in the 37 schools found in Kakoba and Kamukuzi divisions. Qualitative data was collected from the 8 key Informants using key informant interview guides. Results Majority 86% (80/93) of the respondents were knowledgeable about ways in which water could get contaminated during storage, and 87.1% (81/93) could tell when water is contaminated. More than half 62.4% (58/93) agreed that it is important to cover drinking water vessels although 71.0% (66/93) of them agreed that safe water should be used at all times. Majority 89.3% (83/93) covered their drinking water vessels although only 71.1% (59/93) had their covers clean. Conclusion There was generally a high level of knowledge and satisfactory practices. However, the attitudes were not highly positive which could lead to undesirable practices. The school management’s provision and supervisory role was identified as key influencing the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the cooks towards the management of a safe water chain.
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    Assessing the knowledge, attitude and practices of households towards cholera outbreak preparedness and prevention in Kalerwe Village, Kawempe Division, Kampala City
    (Makerere University, 2019-05) Niyongabo, Filimin
    Background: Cholera is still a great public health threat to the global community and more particularly in the developing countries of Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and Asia. It is endemic in areas where access to safe water and adequate sanitation is a challenge especially in high density areas like slums, refugee camps. Kalerwe village is one of the high-density urban slums in Kampala City in Uganda. Kalerwe has continuously received cholera outbreaks during the rainy seasons of the year. It is therefore vital to understand the knowledge, attitude and practices of the community households towards cholera preparedness and prevention. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of households towards cholera outbreak preparedness and prevention so as to mitigate the spread of cholera in the country. Methodology: A cross sectional study design utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection was carried out in Kalerwe village, Kawempe division in Kampala City. Random sampling method was used to select 138 households where an adult member was interviewed. Two key informant interviews were carried out. Observations during the transect walk were taken. Data was collected using questionnaires on Epicollect 5 and analyzed using STATA software. Results: About 98.6% of the participants knew that cholera was caused by germs from poor sanitation. 93.5% of the participants knew that severe diarrhea and vomiting were typical signs of cholera and 97.8% knew that prevention of cholera can be achieved by supply of safe water and ensuring adequate sanitation. 90.6% of the participants were interested in preventing cholera and 100% of all the participants believed that hands should be washed before eating. The respondents reported to be having good sanitation practices, however from the observations and key informant interviews it was realized that the households practiced open defecation, indiscriminate dumping of solid waste, consumption of unsafe water among others. Conclusion: The households of Kalerwe village had poor sanitation and food hygiene practices regardless of being aware of how cholera is transmitted and prevented. It is therefore paramount to promote cholera outbreak prevention and preparedness activities like safe water supply and adequate latrine construction in Kalerwe village. Government should continue to carry out massive cholera risk reduction measures like providing sanitation infrastructure in such urban informal settlements.
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    Quality of malaria case management in Naguru hospital
    (Makerere University, 2019-05) Kigenyi, James ; Ssempijja, Stanley
    Uganda has made significant progress in managing cases of malaria. However. Clinically diagnosed malaria remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, accounting for 30-50% of outpatient visits at health facilities, 15-20% of all hospital admissions, and up to 20% of all hospital deaths. The general objective of the study is to assess the quality of health care in Naguru Hospital provided to malaria patients using process indicators. A cross sectional study was carried out for a period of one week using structured questionnaires on malaria patients (N=288). Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires. Information on the demographics, malaria illness status, diagnosis and medication was collected. Descriptive data was analyzed using SPSS and presented as percentages. The study found that 54.17% of the patients had a parasitemia confirmatory test carried out on them, all patients were treated in line with the treatment guidelines. Most of the patients were to a greater extent satisfied by the quality of care they received at the facility. The prescribed anti-malarials were artemether/lumefantrin, artesunate, quinine, fansidar and paracetamol. The results from this study provide evidence that parasitemia confirmatory tests were not carried out on all the patients as the treatment guidelines stipulate. For those whose confirmatory test was done, they were treated in line with the treatment guidelines. It also confirms that the patients at the facility are to a greater extent satisfied by the quality of care provided at the facility.
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    Knowledge, perceptions and practices regarding aetiology and prevention of diarrhea among mothers of children under five years in Namuwongo slum, Makindye Division, Kampala District
    ( 2019-05) Kasewa, Hilda Judith
    Introduction: Globally, diarrheal diseases are the second leading cause of death among children under five years old. In Uganda, diarrhea was ranked the sixth among the top ten causes of under-five child morbidity and mortality with a prevalence of 20%. Appropriate knowledge, perceptions and practices of mothers on aetiology and prevention of diarrhea is essential for reduction in morbidity and mortality due to diarrheal disease among children under five years. Objective: This study was set to assess knowledge, perceptions and practices of mothers regarding aetiology and prevention of diarrhea among children under five years in Namuwongo, a slum in Makindye division, Kampala city Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted using both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Quantitative data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires through face-to-face interviews where a total sample size of 358 mothers participated in the survey. Qualitatively, data was obtained using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). The quantitative data was analysed in STATA V13 using univariate analysis while qualitative data was analysed manually using thematic content analysis. Results: Majority 52.3% (187/358) of the mothers in this study did not reach secondary level of education. More than half 56.7% (203/358) had adequate knowledge on aetiology and prevention of diarrhea. Up to 20.7% (74/358) of the mothers could not correctly mention a single diarrhea prevention measure. In regards to perceptions, three quarters 74.6% (267/358) of the mothers agreed that diarrhea is normal. Some the perceived causes of diarrhea were teething 96.9% (347/358) and false teeth 86.6% (310/358). In this study, most 53.9% (193/358) of the mothers had poor practices towards prevention of diarrhea. Conclusion: Generally, the knowledge of mothers in this study is quite satisfactory. However, there is still a gap in mothers’ knowledge on prevention, their perceptions on aetiology and their overall practices towards prevention of diarrhea among children under five years. It is therefore incumbent on the government, non-government organizations, health workers and promoters to increase mothers’ awareness about aetiology and prevention of diarrhea through interventions such as health education campaigns. Keywords: Diarrhea, Knowledge, Perceptions, Practices, Aetiology and Prevention
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    Occupational safety knowledge and practices among fisherfolks of Lwampanga Sub County Fish Landing Sites Nakasongola District, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2019-05-29) Kyanda, Alex
    Introduction Occupational safety is defined as the science of anticipation, recognition, evaluation and control of hazards arising in or from the workplace that could impair the health and wellbeing of workers, taking into account the possible impact on the surrounding communities and the general environment. Fishing is one of the occupations with substantial risks which include but not limited to: drowning, assaults, skin infections among others. In Uganda, its responsibility of Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to administer and enforce the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and improvement of working conditions and environment. Given interventions, fishermen continue to be disproportionately affected by occupational related injuries. In Lwampanga, the knowledge and practice regarding occupational safety is not documented. The extent to which interventions to reduce hazards related to fishing is not known. Objectives The objective of the study was to determine occupational safety knowledge and practices among fisher folks of Lwampanga, Nakasongola district in Uganda. Specific objectives were to determine the level of occupational safety knowledge, among fisher folks at selected landing sites in Lwampanga. To determine individual occupational safety practices among fisher folks and also to explore perception of district, and community leaders towards occupational safety among fisher folk in Lwampanga Sub County. Methodology This study was cross sectional, 6 landing sites were randomly selected 1 from at least each parish.12 key informants were selected purposively from the respective departments and relevant community structures. Data collection methods included an interviewer administered questionnaire, and key informant interviews. Quantitative data was collected from 300 respondents, including different categories of populations involved in fishing activities. Qualitative data was collected from 12 key informants, using thematic analysis of transcripts from respondents. Quantitative data was analyzed using STATA. The results will be presented to school of public health Makerere and a copy will be presented to the district fisheries officer, xi from whom other sub county fisheries staff can get information and assess the results. The results will guide in health education and enforcement in regard to occupational measures. Results Slightly more than half of respondents 56.6% were knowledgeable about occupational health and safety. 99.7% acknowledged that their kind of work exposes them to different hazards. More than half 58.9% reported working in groups as a preventive measure to the hazards faced while fishing. 91.3% knew PPE and could mention at least one, only 32.7% were consistently using them. More than half 56.67% of respondents had poor practices in regard to occupational health and safety of which of all the respondents only 16% could report occupational health and safety incidences. Conclusion Despite the considerable knowledge on occupational health and safety among fishermen, majority of the workers displayed poor safety practices thus poor PPE use, incidence reporting etc. Therefore, there is need for continuous trainings and sensitization of fishermen workers on occupational health and safety with emphasis on the advantages of using protective equipment, order to improve their knowledge and consequently their practices.
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    Assessment of nutritional status and associated factors among children 6-59 months in Mpunge sub-county, Mukono district
    (Makerere University, 2019-06) AKORIMO, ROGERS
    Background Nutritional status is a condition of the body influenced by the diet, the levels of nutrients in the body and ability of those levels to maintain normal metabolic integrity. Normal nutritional status among individuals is managed by the balance of food consumption and normal utilisation of nutrients. Objective The objective of the study was to assess the nutritional status and associated factors among children aged 6-59 months at household level in Mpunge sub-county, Mukono district to inform intervention prioritizing. Methodology This was a community-based cross-sectional study with a retrospective component that used both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Simple random sampling was done to select children aged 6-59 months from Mpunge Sub-county. Anthropometric measurements of children were taken and their dates of birth were recorded from their birth certificates which were used to determine their nutritional status. Semi-structured questionnaires and key informant interview guides were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data from mothers/caretakers and key informants respectively. Data was collected with Epicollect5 software and was downloaded and saved onto the computer. The anthropometric measurements were computed using WHO Anthro plus 2009 software to determine z-scores and percentiles which were compared with WHO (2006) child growth standards to establish the nutritional status of children. Thematic analysis was adopted to analyse qualitative data. Factors associated with nutritional status of children were established using multiple Poisson regression. Results The prevalence of wasting, stunting and underweight was 11.6%, 32.6% and 16.3% (n=344) respectively. The overall prevalence of malnutrition of Mpunge sub-county after scoring the nutritional status of children was 42.73% (n=344). Religion and tribe of mothers/caretakers, stopping period for breastfeeding and child death history in households were significantly associated with the nutritional status of children aged 6-59 months. Conclusions The prevalence of malnutrition (42.7%) among children below five years in Mpunge sub-county is unacceptably high. This is associated with region and tribe of the caretaker, child death history in the household, and stopping period for breasting. Therefore, the current findings serve to highlight the critical predisposing factors which may be prioritized for intervention by different actors. Recommendations 1. Since religion and tribe of mother/caretakers are associated with nutritional status, religious gatherings and tribal meetings are avenues for giving nutrition education and health education by health workers to promote the good nutritional status of children. 2. All mothers who are HIV negative who stop breastfeeding their children before the age of two years should be encouraged to breastfeed up to 2 years by health workers to maximize the benefits of breast milk. Mothers who are HIV positive should be encouraged to bottle feed their children after exclusive breastfeeding for at least 1.5 years. 3. Child death in households should be prevented by health workers through prevention of diseases and malnutrition by health educating and encouraging household members to maintain good household hygiene and sanitation, and giving quick response to child illness through seeking early treatment.
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    Knowledge, attitude and practices on the usage of personal protective equipment among workers in small scale industries in Lira Municipality
    (Makerere University, 2019-06-16) Opio, Robson Rolex
    Introduction: Occupational safety remains an ignored aspect among employers and employees. Globally, more than 2.3 million people die from occupational injuries or diseases, with more than 313 million people per year getting involved in non-fatal occupational injuries resulting into serious injuries and work absence. All these can cause reduced work force, reduced productivity due to lost work hours, as well as increase in poverty due to out of pocket treatment of the disease and injuries. However, there is very poor reporting and documentation of occupational hazards and injuries as well as use of personal protective equipment (PPE), the last line of defence against occupational injuries. Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge attitude and practices towards usage of PPE among workers in small-scale industries in Lira Municipality in order to generate data that can be used to influence policy making towards occupational safety of workers. Methods: This was a quantitative study that utilized questionnaires administered to the participants. Two hundred six respondents were randomly selected and interviewed from 20 industries. The data was collected on worker knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding the use of PPE. Collected quantitative data was manually cleaned and entered into Epi-Data 3.0 software, where data were cleaned and then exported to Stata IC 12 software ‘STATA statistical software, version 12.0 for analysis. The data was presented in form of frequencies, mean, median and percentages, using tables and figures, accordingly. Results: Two hundred six respondents participated in the study; 84.95% were males. The majority of respondents 93.69% (193/206) were aware that their workplace posed occupational health risk to their health. In addition, the majority of the respondents 90.29% (186/206) were aware of the existence of PPE as an occupational safety measure although slightly more than half (53.88%, (111/206) had never received any training on the usage of PPE. The total knowledge score for the majority of workers was 60.68% 125/206), indicating poor knowledge on PPE. majority of the respondents 96.60% (199/206) agreed that PPE offers protection, with 93.20% (192/206) saying that they can use PPE if made available, and 87.86% (181/206) feeling that it is necessary to protect themselves at work. The total attitude score showed that majority 77.67% (160/206) had a positive attitude towards PPE. The majority of the respondents 64.08% (135/206) had PPE, with 92.59% (125/135) of these actually using it. Slightly more than half of the respondents (52.20%, 64/135) used PPE when exposed to dangerous work. The total practice score 57.60% (72/125) showed that most of the respondents who had PPE had good practices of PPE. Conclusion and recommendation: The study showed that the majority of workers knew that their workplaces posed occupational health risks to them and nearly two-thirds of the respondents had PPE. The study also shows that the majority of workers had a favourable attitude towards PPE which could probably explain the high use of PPE among those that had it. The recommendations were addressed to both occupational safety authorities, the employers, and employees. With safety officers, employers mainly being required to initiate more outreach programs to inform workers, employers and employees about work safety and protection to fill the knowledge gap
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    Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice Towards Safe Water Chain among the Community Members of Ciforo Sub-County, Adjumani District
    (Makerere university, 2019-07) Yamba, Idrifua Richard
    Though 89% of the world’s population had access to drinking water facilities, about 768 million people relied on unimproved drinking water-sources, 83% of them reside in rural areas by the end of 2013(WHO 2014). Safe water chain is the process of ensuring water is free from pathogenic micro organisms’ right from the source, transportation, storage until it is consumed so as to prevent the occurrence of water borne diseases. Objective To assess the knowledge, attitudes and the practices on safe water chain among household members of Ciforo sub-county, Adjumani district in order to generate evidence-based interventions aimed at improving water quality, sanitation and hygiene thus reduce the burden of water borne diseases in the sub-county. Method A cross sectional study was used to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices on safe water chain. This was conducted using structured questionnaire data tool through interview method, 150 respondents were selected randomly from various households and key informants of 10 respondents from various government sectors especially sub-county staffs including those working in sector of water and sanitation was also interviewed to make a total of 150 respondents, observational methods will also be used at five (5) water points. The data collected was then analysed to find out whether proper safe water chain is practiced by the communities in CiforoSub Countyand the results will be disseminated to the relevant authorities for necessary actions and advocating for resources in order to promote safe water chain in the community so as to prevent the occurrence of water borne diseases.
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    Knowledge, attitude and uptake of Safe Male Circumcision among undergraduate male students in Makerere University College of health sciences
    ( 2019-10) Bulafu, Douglas
    ABSTRACT Introduction and background HIV/AIDS is one of the major global public health problems affecting about 36.9 million people annually. Uganda has an HIV prevalence of 6 %. Approximately 35% of university students in Uganda including Makerere University are infected with HIV. Safe male circumcision (SMC) and other efforts such as promotion of condom use, treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, voluntary testing and counseling and use of antiretroviral treatment amongst others have been put in place to curtail the HIV epidemic but it remains a big problem. In Makerere University, SMC was launched by the Makerere University Joint AIDS Programme (MJAP) in 2012 with support from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to curb down HIV in the University and the community. However since this program was implemented, uptake of these services is very low. Knowledge deficits and poor attitudes regarding SMC are some of the attributes to low uptake of SMC amongst other factors. There has been no study carried out in Makerere University to assess the Knowledge, Attitudes and practices of male students on SMC. General objective The general objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and uptake of SMC among male students in Makerere University College of health science so as to improve adoption and acceptability of SMC as a method of reducing the risk of HIV/AIDS. Methodology A cross sectional study was conducted among a sample of 336 undergraduate male students in Makerere University College of health sciences. The college was divided into strata, where each school was stratum. Participants were randomly sampled in each stratum. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires. The data was then processed using Epi Data, Microsoft excel and STATA. It has been presented in graphs, pie charts and percentages. Results A good level of knowledge, attitude and uptake of SMC was revealed among the respondents. All the respondents have heard about SMC and majority correctly defined it and majority said it was important. Majority, of the respondents,( 89.2% ) had a good attitude towards SMC and most of them would prefer to be circumcised from a health facility. There was poor uptake of SMC services at 62.8%. Conclusion There is poor uptake of SMC services at Makerere University College of health sciences despite the good knowledge and attitudes among the students. In addition, the uptake of SMC has not yet met the target included in the SMC policy of having 80% of males circumcised, therefore more efforts should be put up by the university management and ministry of health to improve SMC uptake and therefore meet this target.
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    Knowledge, attitude and Practices Towards Solid Waste Management among Household Heads in Kikaya Parish, Kawempe Division, Uganda
    (Makerere university, 2019-10-01) Twesigye, Belinda
    Introduction: Solid waste is increasingly becoming a critical issue of concern in Uganda as it is greatly associated with increasing adverse environmental health problems that greatly impair health of humans, animals and cause economic losses. This problem is attributed to the increasing population, urbanization as well as the poor waste management and disposal systems in place that fail to manage the associated increase in waste generated. Objective: The study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices among residents in the households of Kikaya parish, Kawempe division towards solid waste management in order to inform local authorities and other stakeholders in the design of solid waste management programs to curb the problem of poor solid waste management in the city. 11 Methods: This was a cross-sectional study employing quantitative data collection methods. The study used a structured questionnaire among a sample size of 380 residents. Data was analyzed using StataSE version 13 and presented in tables and figures using frequencies, proportions, and odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals. Results: In this study, majority of the respondents had knowledge about solid waste management 70.3% (267/380), a negative attitude towards solid waste management 54.8% (131/380) and managed their solid waste in a proper manner 69.5% (264/380). Most of the residents used waste collection trucks for the final disposal of their waste. Household heads that had attained university/ tertiary education as their highest form of formal education were two times more likely to practice proper solid waste management (COR=2.4, CI =1.3-4.7). In addition, respondents who had sufficient knowledge about solid waste management were five times more likely to have a positive attitude towards solid waste management (COR=4.9, CI=2.9-8.3). This study found no association between knowledge about solid waste management and proper solid waste management practices. Conclusion: Despite the respondents having sufficient knowledge about solid waste management, they displayed negative attitude towards it. Therefore, there is need for continuous sensitization about the negative health effects of poor solid waste management in order to improve their attitudes.
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    Factors associated with use of Personal Protective Equipment among temporary construction workers in Makindye division, Kampala
    ( 2019-10-07) Mulyowa, Alex
    Background: In Low and Middle-Income Countries, temporary construction workers suffer majority of the construction-related injuries due to lack of or improper use of personal protective equipment. In Uganda, there is limited enforcement towards use of PPE on construction sites for the temporary workers. This study aimed at assessing the use of PPE and associated factors among temporary construction workers in Makindye division, Kampala. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study carried out among 248 temporary construction workers aged 18 years and above. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Modified Poisson regression model to generate Prevalence Ratios (PRs) and their 95% confidence intervals as measures of association. Qualitative data was analysed using conventional content analysis. Results: The mean age of the temporary construction workers was 22.9 years with a standard deviation of ±2.8 years. Out of the 248 respondents, 50.4% (125/248) used PPE with majority 76.8% (96/125) wearing boots. Temporary workers aged 24-26 years (APR=2.0; 95% CI=1.3-3.2) and 27-30 years (APR=2.4; 95% CI=1.4-4.1); those that had worked on sites for 29-56 days (APR=1.5; 95% CI=1.0-2.1); those with experience of 1-5 years in building construction work (APR=0.7; 95% CI=0.6-0.9), and those that were engaged in masonry (APR=1.3; 95% CI=1.2-1.7) were more likely to use PPE. However, temporary construction workers who had never received training in construction (APR=0.8; 95% CI=0.6-0.9), as well as those who worked at sites where safety protocols were not enforced (APR=0.6; 95% CI=0.5-0.8) were less likely to use PPE. Conclusion: The prevalence of PPE use among temporary construction workers was low. Age, duration spent at site, training in PPE use and enforcement of safety protocols at work were responsible for the low PPE use. There is need for training of the temporary construction workers on PPE use and enforcement of safety protocols at construction sites.
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    Assessment of usage of personal protective equipment and related factors among workers in wood workshops in Mutungo Parish, Nakawa Division, Kampala District
    (Makerere University, 2019-10-14) Were,Jackson
    Introduction: Workers across industries are exposed to a variety of hazards at the workplace. The use of PPE is an important strategy of preventing exposure to hazards that could result in injuries and illnesses among workers, including those in wood workshops. Despite the widely acknowledged benefits of PPE use, studies have shown that PPE use remains low, inconsistent and inappropriate. Objective: This study sought to assess the extent and reasons for utilization of PPE among workers in wood workshops in Mutungo Parish, Kampala District. Methods: The study used both qualitative and quantitative techniques in data collection. The sample size was 139 respondents in 11 wood workshops constituting of 5 in-depth interviews. Quantitative data was entered using epi-data 3.02 and then cleaned and analyzed using STATA 13.0 while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Findings: PPE utilization among the workers was found to be sub-optimal; 62.5% of the workers had only one PPE, 35% had two and only 2.5% had at most three PPE while at work. Study findings showed that reasons for failure to utilize PPE included; unavailability due to cost implications, interference of the PPE with speed of work and comfort issues. Conclusion and recommendation: The study therefore recommends that quality and affordable PPE should be availed in the market and, safety and health awareness and education programs be extended to workers in the informal wood workshops so as to sensitize the workers on how they can ensure their own safety during work.
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    Road traffic noise exposure, awareness and practices of traffic police towards noise in Central Division, Kampala district, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2019-10-15) Musiitwa, Rogers
    Background: Road traffic noise contributes more than 55% of total environmental noise in urban areas. In cities like Kampala, road traffic noise is the biggest cause of community noise especially near busy roads with higher traffic volumes and speeds. The traffic police is the most affected group since they are responsible for controlling the vehicle traffic. In Uganda, particularly Kampala Central division there is limited research which has been done to ascertain the levels of road traffic noise and assessment of awareness and practices of traffic police towards road traffic noise. Objective: To measure road traffic noise exposure and assess the awareness and practices of traffic police towards road traffic noise. This information will guide the planning and designing of appropriate interventions towards reducing noise pollution exposure and its related effects in central division of Kampala city. Methodology: A cross-sectional study employing both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection was conducted in Kampala Central division. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from 60 traffic police personnel concerning their socio-demographics, awareness and practices in relation to road traffic noise. Key informant interview guides were used to collect qualitative data from five traffic police commanders. Data was collected by holding face to face interviews with the study participants. Noise at 10 road junctions was measured using a sound level meter. Quantitative data was analyzed using STATA and thematic content analysis was done for qualitative data. Results: Overall average road traffic noise levels measured were 80.7dB. Noise levels were highest in the evening 83.7dB and lowest in the afternoon 76.8dB. The study revealed that 90% (54/60) of the respondents had heard about road traffic noise, 95% (57/60) respondents admitted that there was a problem of road traffic noise in their work place and 95% (57/60) knew the sources of road traffic noise. Only 6.7% (4/60) of the respondents have had training on road traffic noise control. The mean working hours of the respondents was 9.5. The measures applied by the respondents to reduce exposure to road traffic noise were; working for few hours 50.6% (45/60) followed by often change of duty station 28.1% (25/60), use of PPEs at 14.6% (13/60) and others at 6.7%. Conclusion: The study indicated that Kampala Central division was suffering from higher levels of road traffic noise (80.7 dB (A)) as compared to standard stipulated by National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) (65 dB (A)). Traffic police personnel had good understanding regarding the source, health effects and measures to control and reduce exposure to road traffic noise compared to their practices regarding reducing exposure. NEMA and traffic police need to collaborate and enforce the road traffic noise standards and regulations.
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    Assessment of the utilization of hand washing facilities at household level in Namuwongo Slums of Kampala, Uganda
    ( 2019-10-16) Nakanwagi, Angella Mary
    Introduction:Developing countries like Uganda still bear the highest burden of communicable diseases worldwide. In Uganda, high morbidity and mortality rates from these diseases is especially due to the rapidly upcoming urban slums like Namuwongo slum whose poor WASH conditions favour the spread of such diseases and thus the recurrent outbreaks in the country. Hand washing is a low-cost intervention of renowned effectiveness that has been proven to be of great importance in prevention of infectious diseases. However, this practice is yet to be taken up especially in the slum communities of the Uganda. Objective: To assess the utilization of hand washing facilities at household level in Namuwongo slum of Kampala, so as to generate information that can be used to design interventions to improve hand washing practices in the area. Methodology: This was a cross sectional study, employing quantitative data collection methods including a structured questionnaire and an observational checklist. A sample size of 318 female caretakers took part in the study. Univariate and bivariate analysis were done to come up with results from the collected data. Results: In this study, 82.4%of the participants were sufficiently knowledgeable about hand washing. Most households 56.6% in the study area had No facilities for hand washing as majority used jerry cans as their hand washing facilities. Less than half 44.7% of the participants were found to be good users of hand washing facilities and the commonest reasons for not always washing hands were being busy and forgetting. Level of education, awareness of the materials required for hand washing and other factors like Presence of a hand washing facility and distance to the water source had significant associations with hand washing facility use. Conclusion: Despite the sufficient knowledge on hand washing, majority of the caretakers displayed poor hand washing practices thus poor hand washing facility use. Therefore, there is need for continuous trainings and sensitization of caretakers on hand washing in order to improve their knowledge and consequently practices thus better utilization of hand washing facilities.
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    The management of children under five faecal matter disposal in households in Nansana Division, Wakiso District, Uganda
    ( 2019-10-16) Namwanga, Bridget
    ABSTRACT Background: Safe management of faeces (SMoF) and environmental contamination by faecal pathogens have been extensively researched although the SMoF in under-five children has been perennially neglected perhaps due to the misconception that it is harmless. This research, therefore, studied the situation, to determine the magnitude and dimensions of the problem aimed at making policy level stakeholders aware of child faeces management systems and so, inform evidence-based implementation of child and health-related programmes in Nansana. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among a multistage random sample of 173 household caregivers of children under five in Nansana Division, Wakiso district. Quantitative data was collected using pretested close ended questionnaires and analysed using Stata version 13.0. Qualitative data was collected using key informant interview guides and analyzed using thematic content analysis technique. Results were presented in form tables and pie charts. Results: More than half (80.0%) knew that faeces of children under five are harmful when compared to those of adults. About 61.7% had good knowledge and 74.3% had a positive attitude on sanitation and hygiene variables relating to the management of child defecation practices. Also 78.9% of caregivers practiced good transportation and disposal methods of faeces of children under five and most caregivers had access to improved water sources as shown in the study. It was found that 94.3% caregivers disposed of the faeces of their under five children in the latrine while the rubbish containers were used by 88.6% respondents. In addition, regarding the disposal of under-five faeces, caregivers’ preferences varied with the mobility of under five children. Conclusion/Recommendation: Majority were knowledgeable and had positive attitudes towards child faecal matter management and also more than half of those had good disposal practices of the children under five faecal matter. Though it still evidenced some gaps such as the improper faecal matter disposal by some caregivers, the air pollution from those that burn the diapers, the improper means of transportation such as hands. The gaps identified in the study need to be addressed in order to ensure proper management of children under five faecal matter in households in Nansana division.
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    Assessing risk factors for indoor air pollution exposure in households in Bulamu Ward, Kasangati Town Council, Wakiso District
    (Makerere University, 2019-10-22) Serunjogi, Davis Tamuzadde
    Abstract Background: Globally, indoor air pollution from various forms of pollutants is an increasing problem. The most common form of indoor air pollution is that caused by inefficient burning of solid and fossil fuels like wood, charcoal and kerosene in indoor environments. Indoor air pollution is therefore a significant problem particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) including Uganda where use of such solid fuels is most common. There is however little attention drawn to understanding the problem specifically in Uganda to come up with tailor-made solutions. Objectives: To assess risk factors for indoor air pollution exposure in households in Bulamu ward, Kasangati town council, Wakiso district so as to provide information that could be used to make proper decisions and design measures to reduce indoor air pollution. Methodology: A cross sectional study was carried out among 96 households in Bulamu ward, Kasangati town council, Wakiso district. From the 5 villages within the ward, 1 was randomly selected. The 96 households were then selected from the village by systematic sampling applying a sampling interval of 21 households obtained by dividing the sum of households in the ward by the calculated sample size. Data was then collected using a researcher-administered questionnaire by means of Epi-collect 5 software with a mobile phone. The data was analyzed using STATA 2013 software and presented in various forms including graphs and tables. Results: The study found the most known sources of indoor air pollution as solid-fuel smoke 99.0% (95/96), dust 89.6% (86/96) and indoor smoking 60.4% (58/96). The most mentioned potential health effects due to indoor air pollution were cough/cold 79.2% (76/96), difficulty in breathing 59.4% (57/96) and lung complications 53.1% (51/96). The most suggested measures against indoor air pollution were cooking outdoors 95.8% (92/96) and stopping indoor smoking 70.83% (68/96). The majority of households, 87.5% (84/96) used charcoal for cooking and 11.5% (11/96) of the respondents cooked inside their houses. Over half of the respondents, 54.2% (52/96) lived in a house with only one window and only 30.2% (29/96) houses had windows that allowed cross or through ventilation. Conclusion: There was considerable knowledge on common sources, potential health effects and measures to reduce indoor air pollution which can be used as a basis for successful interventions against the problem.
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    Assessment of menstrual hygiene management status among girls in primary schools in Mityana Municipal Council
    ( 2019-11) Luyimbaazi, Daniel
    Background Menstrual Hygiene Management is an under researched issue in East Africa. In low income settings, poor Menstrual Hygiene Management can cause absenteeism from school, infections and school dropouts. Menstrual Hygiene Management is affected by cultural beliefs, practices and norms, lack of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene facilities at school and proper materials to manage menstrual flow. This study aims to explore the Menstrual Hygiene Management status of girls in primary schools in Mityana Municipal Council in order to guide effective interventions to prevent menstrual related consequences. Methodology This study was a cross sectional, quantitative data was collected using 132 Self-administered questionnaires that were given to 132 school girls in six schools in the Mityana Municipal Council. Questions included topics on menstrual materials used, disposal of menstrual waste, and challenges of menstruation to girls. Results Majority of girls 93.2% (123/132) menstruated for the first time between 11 and 13 years inclusive, the mean age was 11.98; 80.0% (106/132) of girls were affected by menstruation while at school; 51.1% (23/45) of girls who did not attend school due to menstruation missed 1-3 days of class time, 65.2% (86/132) of girls used disposable sanitary pads to manage their menstrual blood and they disposed of the menstrual waste materials in latrine 79.6%. Most of the girls 59% (78/132) were satisfied with menstrual facilities at school. However, almost all girls 94% (124/132) needed menstrual facilities to be improved. Conclusion A few primary schools really help these girls with all the necessary requirements to meet the good menstrual hygiene management status.
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    Prevalence, motivators and barriers to crash helmet use among SafeBoda passengers in Kampala central division
    (Makerere University, 2019-11-04) Kirumira, Daniel
    Introduction: Globally, road traffic injuries are on a rise and if there is no sustainable action taken, they are to rank 7th among the leading causes of death by 2030. Most, 90%, of the global road traffic injuries occur in low and middle countries, with injuries due to motorcycle crashes being the greatest contributor. In Kampala, Uganda’s capital city, motorcycle taxis are the commonest means of public transport and they help to move thousands of passengers daily. Despite that benefit, motorcycle taxis are the leading cause of road traffic injuries in the city and very few (1%) motorcycle passengers use a crash helmet. This makes passengers exposed to severe and fatal head injuries following a motorcycle crash. Objective: To assess the prevalence, motivators and barriers to crash helmet use among SafeBoda motorcycle passengers in Kampala central division in order to inform future interventions promoting crash helmet use. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study that employed both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods from January 2019 to Febuary 2019. Quantitative data was collected using a structured questionnaire among 420 SafeBoda passengers whereas qualitative data was collected through key informant interviews that included 8 SafeBoda riders and 1 traffic officer. Observations were done at two major road junctions to estimate the observed prevalence of crash helmet use. Quantitative data was analyzed using STATA version 13, and summarized as frequencies and percentages. Modified Poisson regression was used for multivariable analysis to determine the factors associated with crash helmet use among SafeBoda passengers. Results: Prevalence of self-reported crash helmet use was 43.6% and 16.8% when observed. Passengers that had ever used a crash helmet reported motivators to crash helmet use like feeling Safe 96.5% (300/311), travelling a long distance 28.0% (87/311) and seeing others use it 10.6% (33/311). Passengers that didn’t always use and those that had never used a crash helmet reported barriers like dirty crash helmets 78.9% (291/369), disorganizes hair 49.9% (184/369) and hot weather 25.5% (94/369). Those with secondary level of education were 0.42 times less likely to use a crash helmet (Adj. PRR=0.42, CI=0.22-0.80, P-value=0.008). Conclusion: The prevalence of crash helmet use was low among SafeBoda passengers, thus leaving many SafeBoda users exposed to a higher risk of fatal head injuries after a crash. Therefore, a close understanding of facilitators and barriers to crash helmet use is encouraged to guide implementation of programmes that promote crash helmet use.
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    Knowledge, attitude and practices among rice farmers on the use of Personal Protective Equipment in Butebo Sub County, Butebo District
    (Makerere University, 2019-11-05) Kayendeke, Masitula
    Introduction: In Uganda, a great number of farmers are embracing rice growing as both the cash crop and the staple food. It’s also considered as one of the major agricultural enterprises with the ability of increasing rural income levels. This includes Butebo Sub County in Butebo district as well. However the working conditions and the work environment are associated with various occupational hazards like cuts, injuries from working equipment and animals, microorganisms, heat, drowning, exposure to pesticides and other chemicals. The use of PPE among rice farmers is poor. It was vital to detect and address the gaps in the use of PPE among rice farmers in Butebo District. Objective The study objective was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of rice farmers towards the use of PPE in Butebo Sub County in Butebo District. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the randomly selected sample of 180 rice farmers from the four parishes; Akisim, kasiebai, kabelai and kanyumu in Butebo Sub County in Butebo District. Simple random sampling strategy was used to select the respondents. Purposive sampling was used for selecting the key informants. Data collected was on sociodemographics, knowledge, attitude and practices of rice farmers towards the use of PPE. Data was analysed usingSTATA12.0. Analysis was carried out at univariate level and the results were presented in terms of tables and graphs. Results 180 rice farmers participated in the study, majority 155/180, 86.1% of the participants were male, more than half 165/180, 91.7% of the respondents were married and most of them were youths. More than half 103/180, 57.8% attained primary education, a greater number of the respondents 120/180. 66.8% had low knowledge on the use of PPE, 129/180, 71.7% of the respondents had negative attitude and less than half 32/180, 17.8% of the participants exhibited good practice on the use of PPE. Conclusion: The study revealed that majority of the respondents had low knowledge, negative attitude and poor practices towards PPE use. As a result, the study indicated that the ministry of Agriculture should create awareness and conduct community education of farmers concerning the use of PPE.