Knowledge and attitudes towards utilization of male condoms among youths in Entebbe regional referral hospital, Wakiso district. A cross-sectional study.

Introduction Knowledge about condom use is generally widespread, as condoms are one of the most promoted methods for preventing both sexually transmitted infections. The study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude towards the utilization of male condoms among youths in Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital, Wakiso District.  Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study using quantitative methods was conducted among 40 youths selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured and semi-structured questionnaires, checked for completeness, coded, and entered into Microsoft Excel (2022) for analysis, and findings were presented using frequencies, percentages, and graphical summaries.  Results The majority, 18 (45%) of respondents were aged 25–29 years, and 8 (20%) were aged 18–24 years. 25 (62.5%) stated that awareness of PrEP or long-acting contraceptives reduces the need to use condoms, the majority 34 (85%) said condoms reduce the chance of STIs and unintended pregnancy, the majority 37 (92.5%) knew how to use condoms, while 3 (7.5%) did not. 26 (65%) strongly agreed that condoms reduce sexual pleasure. Regarding side effects, the majority, 21 (52.5%), disagreed that condoms have bad side effects. 22 (55%) strongly disagreed to use condoms. 33 (82.5%) strongly agreed that condoms prevent infections.  Conclusion Although most youths (85%) demonstrated good knowledge of the protective benefits of condoms, a significant portion lacked adequate understanding of proper condom storage (55%), revealing a gap in practical knowledge essential for effective use.  Recommendation Policy Makers should strengthen the implementation of comprehensive sexuality education at the community and school levels to address myths surrounding condoms and promote informed decision-making among youths.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants utilized for treating skin inflammation in the Robertson area, Western Cape, South Africa.

Background Skin inflammation remains a common dermatological condition affecting quality of life globally. In many South African communities, traditional medicine continues to serve as a primary healthcare resource. This study documents medicinal plants used for treating skin inflammation in the Robertson area of the Western Cape and evaluates associated ethnobotanical knowledge. Methods A qualitative ethnobotanical survey was conducted between March and June 2024 in Robertson, Western Cape. Thirty informants (28 males and 2 females) aged 18 years and above were selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews, which were pilot-tested before data collection, were conducted and lasted approximately 30–60 minutes. Data collected included plant species used, parts utilized, preparation methods, dosage, growth habits, and socio-demographic characteristics. Ethical clearance was granted by the Mangosuthu University of Technology Research Ethics Committee (REF: RD5/59/2024; approved 15 February 2024). Results A total of 30 plant species belonging to 22 families were documented. The dominant families were Asphodelaceae and Asteraceae (n = 3 each). Shrubs constituted the highest growth habit category (43.33%), followed by herbaceous plants (16.67%). Leaves were the most utilized plant part (60.98%). Infusion (35.14%) was the most frequently reported preparation method, followed by decoction and poultice (18.92% each). Aloe ferox, Bulbine frutescens, Centella asiatica, and Gomphocarpus fruticosus were the most cited species. Conclusion The findings illustrate the rich tradition of herbal medicine in the Robertson region and highlight the cultural significance of these indigenous plants in traditional therapeutic practices, emphasizing the need for conservation and further research on these species. Recommendation Preservation of this knowledge and conservation of plant species are crucial

Knowledge of contraceptive use among adolescent girls and young women aged 10 - 24 years at Kiyindi landing site, Buikwe district, Uganda. A cross-sectional study.

Background There have been several other efforts targeting adolescent girls and young women to foster their behavioural change by way of improving their knowledge, attitudes, and practices of contraceptive use.  The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge of contraceptive use among AGYW (10-24Years) at Kiyindi landing site. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used with quantitative methods of data collection. Data was entered and analysed using Stata statistical software version MP 14.0, Stata Corporation. Descriptive statistics were used for bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results More than half of the respondents (55.7%, N = 377) were aged between 20 and 24 years. Bivariate Analysis of knowledge about contraception and Use by Respondents showed that Knowledge about the importance of leaving a space at the tip when putting on a condom (ꭓ2=54.887, p-value of .000), importance of the man to pull out right after ejaculation when using a condom (X2=21.073, p-value of .000), wearing two latex condoms to provide extra protection (ꭓ2=3.486, p-value of .041), Women “taking a break” from the pill every couple of years (ꭓ2=8.277, p-value of 0.003), women switching to another type or brand of pill when having side effects with one kind of pill, (ꭓ2=3.896, p-value of .032), a woman having a pelvic exam as a must in order to get a birth control pill (ꭓ2=4.743, p-value of .020), and a woman using an IUD even if she had never had a child (ꭓ2=4.135, p-value of .029) were significantly associated with respondents’ use of contraception. Conclusions Respondents were found to be moderately knowledgeable about contraception Recommendations Health workers should teach the community about family planning holistically to increase awareness, so that family planning utilization will be enhanced

Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating Ovulation Response after Myo Inositol versus Metformin in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Background: One of the most prevalent endocrine conditions affecting women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is a primary contributor to anovulatory infertility. One important factor in the pathophysiology of PCOS is insulin resistance. While myo-inositol has lately surfaced as a viable substitute for enhancing ovulatory function, metformin has long been utilized as an insulin sensitizer.  Objective: To compare the ovulation response of Myo-inositol and Metformin in women with PCOS.  Methods: Over the course of four months, 200 women with PCOS were included in a research trial. Two groups of one hundred each were randomly selected from among the participants. Group B was given 500 mg of metformin three times a day, while Group A was given 2 g of myo-inositol twice a day. Follicle monitoring and blood progesterone levels were used to track ovulation. Pregnancy rate, menstrual regularity, and ovulation rate were among the results. The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis, and p <0.05 was deemed statistically significant.  Results: Compared to 48% of women in the Metformin group, 62% of women in the Myo-inositol group experienced ovulation. Compared to 18% of women taking metformin, 28% of women taking myo-inositol became pregnant. Myo-inositol appeared to improve the difference in ovulation rate (p = 0.064). Although the Myo-inositol group had a greater pregnancy rate, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.13).  Conclusion:In women with PCOS, myo-inositol produced better ovulation and pregnancy outcomes than metformin. For PCOS patients, it can be regarded as an efficient and well-tolerated substitute for ovulation induction.  Recommendation: Myo-inositol may be considered a preferable first-line therapy for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome due to its favorable efficacy and tolerability profile

Open versus closed lateral internal anal sphincterotomy for chronic anal fissure: A prospective randomized comparative study.

Background Chronic anal fissure is frequently associated with internal anal sphincter hypertonia and persistent post-defecatory pain. Lateral internal anal sphincterotomy (LIAS) remains the definitive surgical treatment, but open and closed techniques differ in operative exposure and tissue handling. Objectives: To compare open and closed LIAS with respect to operative and early postoperative outcomes, including pain, length of stay, complications, and recurrence. Methods A prospective randomized comparative study was conducted at St. Philomena Hospital, Bengaluru, between December 2020 and June 2022. Sixty adults with chronic anal fissure were randomized to open LIAS (Notaras technique) or closed LIAS (n=30 each). Outcomes included type of anesthesia, duration of surgery, hospital stay, postoperative pain scores (VAS) at 12 and 24 hours, complications (bleeding, hematoma, infection/abscess), continence status, and recurrence during follow-up. Results Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Closed LIAS was performed predominantly under spinal anesthesia and had a shorter operative duration (13.36±3.11 vs 16.60±2.49 minutes). Hospital stay was shorter after closed LIAS (1.30±0.74 vs 2.36±0.80 days). Pain scores were lower in the closed group at 12 hours (2.83±0.87 vs 3.50±1.27) and 24 hours (3.23±0.85 vs 5.30±1.08). Bleeding and hematoma occurred only after open LIAS (6.7% each). No fecal or flatus incontinence was recorded in either group. Recurrence occurred in 6.7% of open LIAS and none after closed LIAS. Conclusion Closed LIAS provided faster surgery, earlier discharge, and lower early postoperative pain, with a low complication profile and no continence impairment in this cohort. Recommendations Where surgical expertise is available, the closed technique can be preferred for an uncomplicated chronic anal fissure, alongside standardized analgesia, fiber supplementation, and scheduled follow-up

Correlation Between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension: A Retrospective Observational Study.

Abstract Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension frequently coexist and significantly increase cardiovascular risk. Understanding their relationship is essential for early detection and management.  Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center over 12 months (January 2024 to December 2024). A total of 100 patients aged ≥35 years were included. Data on age, gender, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and disease duration were collected from medical records. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test and independent t-test, with p<0.05 considered significant.  Results:Among the participants, 55% were males and 45% were females, with a mean age of 58.2 ± 7.5 years. Of the total, 25% had only diabetes, 30% had only hypertension, and 45% had both conditions. A statistically significant association was observed between T2DM and hypertension (χ² = 8.7, p = 0.003). Patients with both conditions had significantly higher systolic (150.6 ± 12.1 mmHg vs 142.3 ± 10.4 mmHg, p = 0.002) and diastolic blood pressure (94.1 ± 8.3 mmHg vs 88.6 ± 7.2 mmHg, p = 0.01). Additionally, fasting blood glucose levels were higher in patients with both conditions (162.5 ± 28.3 mg/dL vs 148.2 ± 24.6 mg/dL, p = 0.03).  Conclusion: A strong association exists between T2DM and hypertension. Early screening and integrated management strategies are essential to reduce complications

Prevalence and pattern of orthodontic malocclusion in children aged 10–12 years: A systematic review of epidemiological studies.

Background Malocclusion is a highly prevalent developmental condition in children and contributes to functional, esthetic, and psychosocial concerns. The age group of 10–12 years represents late mixed dentition, a critical phase for orthodontic evaluation and interceptive care. Considerable variation in reported prevalence necessitates focused synthesis within this specific age range. Objective: To systematically evaluate the prevalence and pattern of orthodontic malocclusion in children aged 10–12 years based on epidemiological studies. Materials and methods This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. School-based or population-based cross-sectional studies reporting malocclusion prevalence in children aged 10–12 years were included. Extracted data comprised study characteristics, diagnostic criteria, prevalence rates, sagittal molar relationships, and occlusal traits. Risk of bias was assessed using criteria appropriate for prevalence studies. Due to methodological heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was performed. Results Four cross-sectional epidemiological studies from India, Turkey, and Iraq were included, representing 6,444 children. Reported malocclusion prevalence ranged from approximately three-quarters to more than four-fifths of the study populations. Angle’s Class I malocclusion was consistently the most prevalent sagittal pattern, followed by Class II, while Class III was the least common. Increased overjet, increased overbite, crossbite, and midline deviations were frequently observed occlusal traits. No consistent gender differences were reported. Conclusion Malocclusion affects a substantial proportion of children aged 10–12 years, predominantly presenting as dental malalignment during late mixed dentition. Early screening programs and interceptive orthodontic strategies are warranted. Future research Standardized diagnostic criteria, multicentric longitudinal designs, and uniform reporting of occlusal traits are needed to improve comparability and strengthen epidemiological evidence

Rare head and neck cancers and pathological diagnosis challenges – A systematic review.

Background Rare head and neck cancers present substantial diagnostic challenges due to overlapping histopathological features, complex molecular profiles, and clinical heterogeneity. Distinguishing metastatic disease, second primaries, and uncommon histological variants requires integration of qualitative pathological assessment and quantitative radiological evaluation. Advanced molecular tools, including next-generation sequencing and molecular classifier assays, are increasingly incorporated to improve diagnostic precision and therapeutic stratification. Material and methods A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Electronic databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and LILACS were searched for studies published between 2020 and 2024. Eligibility criteria included original research articles, case studies, and systematic investigations addressing rare head and neck cancers and associated diagnostic challenges. Studies unrelated to diagnostic methodology or not focused on rare entities were excluded. Extracted data items included author, year, country, study design, diagnostic modality, and clinical outcome relevance. Study quality was assessed using the STROBE checklist where applicable. Results Seven eligible studies were included. Findings demonstrated that qualitative histopathological diagnosis remains central to treatment planning but is limited by interobserver variability and tumor heterogeneity. Quantitative imaging modalities such as CT, MRI, and PET improved tumor localization and staging accuracy. Molecular profiling, biomarker identification, and gene expression assays enhanced primary site identification and prognostic assessment, particularly in cancers of unknown primary and salivary gland malignancies. Multidisciplinary tumor board discussions were consistently associated with optimized therapeutic decision-making and improved care coordination. Conclusion Accurate diagnosis of rare head and neck cancers requires integration of specialized pathological expertise, advanced molecular diagnostics, and structured multidisciplinary evaluation to guide individualized treatment strategies and improve clinical outcomes. Future research Collaborative international consortia will be necessary to generate adequately powered datasets for these uncommon tumor

Laparoscopy in the management of acute intestinal obstruction: “the new gold standard or a selective tool?". A retrospective cross-sectional study.

Background: Acute intestinal obstruction (AIO) is a common surgical emergency requiring prompt diagnosis and management to prevent complications like gangrenous bowel, perforation, sepsis, and death of the patient. While exploratory laparotomy has been the surgical standard for acute intestinal obstruction (AIO), minimally invasive surgery is now frequently favoured for appropriately selected patients. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of laparoscopic approach in the management of acute intestinal obstruction, emphasizing its safety and effectiveness in appropriately selected patients. Methods: A retrospective observational study of all the patients diagnosed with acute intestinal obstruction who underwent a laparoscopic approach in a tertiary care hospital from October 2023 to July 2025. The data was collected from the hospital medical records, parameters like age, sex, etiology, the preoperative diagnosis, the procedure, the intra operative diagnosis, operative time, cause of conversion, and postoperative outcome were analyzed. Results: A total of 40 patients were included in the study. Laparoscopy was successfully completed in 87.5% (35) patients with the rate of conversion 5 (12.5%) patients. The most common causes for conversion were dense adhesions, bowel ischemia, and fragile dilated bowel unable to be handled in laparoscopy. The mean operative time was 171.1 minutes. The patients undergoing laparoscopic management had faster recovery, earlier return of bowel function, and timely return to regular activities. Conclusion: Laparoscopy is a safe and effective modality of management in selected cases of AIO in a tertiary care setting, offering both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits, including faster recovery and less postoperative morbidity. Recommendation: Diagnostic laparoscopy should be considered in hemodynamically stable patients with suspected AIO, provided adequate surgical expertise and appropriate patient selection

Prevalence of sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait among children below 17 years of age attending Entebbe regional referral hospital in Wakiso district. A cross-sectional study.

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder that affects the shape of hemoglobin in the red blood cell, leading to the formation of a sickle shape. This study aims to determine the Prevalence of sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait among children below 17 years of age attending Entebbe Regional Hospital, Wakiso district, Uganda.  Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted at Entebbe regional referral hospital, which included 100 respondents who were selected using a purposive and convenience sampling technique, and data were collected prospectively by administering researcher-guided questionnaires.  Results: The study participants, 55% (55/100), were female, and the age range of respondents was 0– 17 years, 45.0% (45/100) were aged 6-11 years. The Prevalence of sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait among respondents was 19.0% (19/100), with 6% (6/100) respondents found having the homozygous form, HbSS, and 13% (13/100) found having the heterozygous form, HbAS. 86% (86/100) of the respondents had heard about sickle cell, and the majority, 92% (92/100) of the parents had children that had never been screened for sickle cell, with only 8% (8/100) of the children ever screened. 39% (39/100) of the parents reported knowing the cause of sickle cell disease, with the majority, 61% (61/100), not knowing how SCD is caused. 65% (65/100) of the parents of respondents reported that sickle cell is transmitted from parent to child, 17% (17/100) did not know how SCD is transmitted.  Conclusions: The prevalence of sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait was high, while the majority of the participants lacked knowledge about sickle cell screening.  Recommendations: There is a need for health facilities to scale up screening services for sickle cell disease in the community so as to enable early diagnosis and treatment of the disease and reduce morbidity and mortality