http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/1110 2026-04-09T23:48:58Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/1269 Caregiver Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Adherence to Zinc Treatment of Childhood Diarrhea in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. Mwangi, L. W.,; Munyekenye, G; Nderu, D. Background: Zinc supplement is critical for managing childhood diarrhoea. However, adherence to zinc treatment remains low in low-resource settings. This study determined the association between zinc utilization for treatment of diarrhoea among children below five years old and caregivers’ sociodemographic factors in Kirinyaga County, central Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2025, involving 223 caregivers and 25 healthcare workers across four hospitals. Results: Only 20% (45/223) of children in this study received zinc treatment for the recommended period of 10–14 days. Low adherence to zinc treatment was associated with caregiver level of education and employment status (p<0.05). Lack of IMNCI training (96%; 24/25) among health workers was observed, despite most of them having access to the IMNCI guidelines. Conclusions: Findings of this study underscore the need to sensitize caregivers on the benefits of zinc supplements in management of childhood diarrhea. These efforts should be complemented with periodic health worker training on guidelines that support effective management of childhood diarrhea in Kirinyaga County, particularly the IMNCI protocol. 2025-12-28T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/1267 Utilization of Anthropometric Data to Generate Size Charts for Kenyan Pregnant Women Barasa, Z. N.; Kinuthia, L. N. This study addresses the research gap in utilizing anthropometric data to develop size charts for Kenyan maternity wear, considering the diverse cultural, regional, and ethnic factors influencing pregnant women’s body changes. Despite the global emphasis on inclusive fashion, the literature lacks comprehensive research on anthropometric data for Kenyan pregnant women. The study aims to bridge this gap by collecting data and creating trimester-specific size charts, addressing the unique needs of the diverse Kenyan population. Utilizing a longitudinal research design in Nairobi County, the study sampled 600 pregnant women from public health facilities across eight constituencies. Anthropometric measurements were collected, revealing significant weight and girth variations across the population. The study developed trimester-specific size charts, emphasizing the importance of key dimensions like bust, waist, hip, and the girth of the biggest protrusion. Fitting trials confirmed the charts’ effectiveness, yielding satisfactory fit ratings across different body sizes. These findings contribute to the global discourse on anthropometric data’s importance in shaping sizing standards, offering a model for addressing similar gaps in diverse populations. The study practically applies by creating reliable size charts for Kenyan pregnant women, ensuring well-fitting maternity wear aligned with evolving fashion trends and the unique anthropometric characteristics of the population. 2024-06-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/1216 Eggshell Bio-Derived Hydroxyapatite Particle-Wool/Polyester Staple Fibers Hybrid Reinforced Epoxy Bio-Composites For Biomedical Services Isiaka, O., Akeem, D. A., Baraka, A. M., Olanrewaju, A., Taiwo, F. O., Babatunde, A., & Ondieki, B. This study assessed the impact of hybrid reinforcement from natural and synthetic materials on the wear and mechanical properties of epoxy-based composite materials needed for biomedical applications. Hydroxyapatite was synthesized from eggshells using the hydrothermal method, while wool fiber was obtained from cow hair. The hybrid reinforced composites were developed by blending hydroxyapatite particles and the fibers by hand layup method in an open mold production process, with specified amounts of 3–15 wt % reinforcement. The characterized properties included tensile and flexural strengths, impact energy, wear resistance, and hardness. A scanning electron microscopy study was conducted to analyze the adhesion between the matrix and reinforcements at the interface, providing valuable insights into the overall integrity of the composites. The results showed a significant increase in the properties of the hybrid reinforced composites when compared with the pristine sample. In particular, the 6 wt% reinforced composite enhanced 61.14 % in tensile strength and 160.79 % enhanced 61.14 % in tensile strength and 160.79 % in flexural strength. Thus, the study shows that substituting synthetic fibers with hybrid organic-based reinforcement offers a viable approach for developing sustainable materials with improved mechanical properties suitable for biomedical applications. 2024-12-05T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/1211 The Role of Family Medicine in Addressing Cervical Cancer in Kenya: A Global Health Challenge Amugune, B., & Mteeve, J. Cervical cancer presents a significant global health challenge, particularly in developing countries such as Kenya, where high rates of HIV/AIDS exacerbate the situation. This paper examines the critical role of family medicine in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by cervical cancer, including its prevalence, diagnosis and treatment. It highlights the importance of primary care interventions, such as screening and vaccination programs, in early detection and management of cervical cancer. My literature appraisal discusses three pivotal studies that underscore the burden of cervical cancer, the dual epidemics of HPV and HIV, and the determinants affecting healthcare providers’ willingness to conduct gynecological examinations. The findings illustrate the need for comprehensive, patient-centered care that incorporates the principles of family medicine. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and equitable access to healthcare, family physicians can significantly contribute to reducing the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer. This paper advocates for innovative strategies and resource allocation to enhance the effectiveness of cervical cancer interventions in Kenya and similar contexts. 2024-12-18T00:00:00Z