Atherogenic index and relationship with age, gender, and anthropometric measurements among hypertensive patients attending Niger Delta Teaching Hospital

We explored the relationship between age, gender and anthropometric measurements and atherogenic index in hypertensive patients. A cross sectional study was done involving 109 adult hypertensive patients attending the cardiology clinic of Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital. Subjects were recruited consecutively over a three month period. Demographic, clinical data and anthropometric measurements were documented. Fasting lipid profiles were recorded in all cases and this included total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high?density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) and triglycerides (TG). Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) was calculated as log (TG/HDL-C). The mean body mass index (BMI), AIP and presenting blood pressure (BP) of study participants were all above the normal limits. Subjects in their middle ages tended to have higher BMI, waist to height ratio (WHtR), and waist circumference (WC) but there was no significant difference in AIP across age groups. Females however, were observed to have higher AIP, TC, BMI, WC, WHtR and lower HDL compared to men. Finding that mean BMI and AIP were high in these hypertensive patients is worrisome given their additional cardiovascular disease burden. Routine anthropometric indices may not be reliable surrogates for atherogenicity measured by abnormalities in TC, TG, LDL-C and HDL-C and AIP.Keywords: Atherogenic index, hypertension, anthropometric measurement

Beyond stereotypes: Working to improve lives and livelihoods of young persons with intellectual disabilities: A qualitative study

Background: Social inclusion of persons with disabilities thrives in societies with reduced cultural beliefs and practices that promote exclusion based on disabilities. Persons with disabilities face several barriers such as inadequate access to basic needs, inaccessible and non-accommodating environments, and attitudinal barriers. In some cultures, disability is perceived as a form of curse or cultural punishment and those living with disabilities seen as outcasts and a burden to the society. These perceptions and attitudes may limit their full participation in the society and have implications for their livelihood and survival. The aim of this case study is to describe the model of care of a community-based organization in Kenya to improve lives and livelihoods of young persons with intellectual disability.Methods: Using a qualitative case study approach, we explored the experience of education and livelihoods for young persons who are beneficiaries of Tuleane Afrika Initiative, a community-based organisation in Nairobi, Kenya.Results: We found that in a supportive and inclusive environment young people with intellectual disability can live and thrive successfully in the community. Socio-economic factors, poor perception of intellectual disability by the society and poor cognitive functioning are the key barriers to success for young persons with intellectual disability.Conclusion: Social inclusion of young people with intellectual disabilities requires active participation of all stakeholders. It is vital that government, policy makers and society show greater commitment and support for programs that promote wellbeing and livelihoods for young persons with intellectual disability