Immunization Status and Child Survival in Uganda

Using the UDHS 2006 and 2011 and employing the Cox model, we tested the hypothesis that childhood immunization equalizes all children irrespective of parental background. Our findings reject this hypothesis. However, we find strong support to the view that childhood immunization decisively dampens child mortality. Immunised children reduce the risk of mortality by 17-38%. Immunised children with DPT/Polio reduce risk of mortality by 25-43%. Children immunised with measles and BCG shots reduce the risk of mortality by 38-44%. Efforts intended to improve child survival need to go beyond the childhood immunization campaigns and recognise other sources of mortality and morbidity.Key words: Immunization status, child survival, cox model, Ugand

Is learning-by-exporting and self-selection market specific? Evidence from Uganda’s manufacturing sector

We examined whether the learning-by-exporting and self-selection  hypotheses were market specific. Using enterprise data of the World Bank (2006), we employed ordinary least squares and probit techniques as  analytical tools. Learning-by-exporting and self-selection propositions were market specific. The scope for learning in an advanced market was greater when compared to the less advanced market. Productivity variable was  statistically more important for entry in an advanced market compared to a less advanced market. Different export destinations were associated with  different productivity gains. Improvement in the microeconomic environment should help in reducing the sunk costs of foreign market entry.Keywords: Self-selection, Learning-by-exporting, Productivity, Export destinations, Advanced market, Underdeveloped market, Uganda

Long term post PrePex male circumcision outcomes in an urban population in Uganda: a cohort study

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to determine the long term adverse events profile at least a year after safe male circumcision. Results A cohort study, investigating patients who had undergone a non surgical circumcision procedure called Prepex. The study variables included scar appearance and sexual experiences. Clients were contacted for a phone interview and data were collected using a questionnaire, for some, a physical examination was done. We obtained ethical committee approval. Data from 304 out of a possible 625 men were analyzed, the rest was lost to follow up. The follow up period was 12–24 months. The mean age was 28 years. Up to 97% were satisfied with the penile scar appearance and the absence of pain. There was no keloids formation, though one developed a hypertrophic scar. Participants reported improved sexual intercourse enjoyment (post circumcision). Up to 17% resumed sexual intercourse before the 6-week long mandatory abstinence period. The average self-reported healing time was 4.7 weeks. There was a high level of scar appearance satisfaction, there was no keloids formation. There was a perceived improvement of sexual enjoyment after circumcision. Trial registration ClinicalTrials. Gov Identifier: NCT02245126 (Date of registration: September 19, 2014