Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences

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    Perception of risk for glaucoma and eye screening behaviour among rural residents in Abokobi, Accra
    (University of Ghana, 2015-04-17) De-Gaulle, V.F.; Dako-Gyeke, P.
    Glaucoma is the world's leading cause of irreversible blindness. Although, it shows no signs or symptoms until later stages, knowledge about the disease is known to influence utilization of eye screening services. This study aimed at understanding knowledge about glaucoma, perception of risk and eye screening behaviour among residents of Abokobi. This was a cross-sectional study that employed quantitative data collection methods. A questionnaire was used to conduct interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge about glaucoma. Also, associations between socio-demographic factors and awareness, perception of risk, and eye screening behaviour were analysed using Chi-square test or Univariate Fisher's exact test. Out of a total of 300 respondents, 60.3% were females and 39.3% were aware of glaucoma. Majority (94.9%) of respondents who were aware of glaucoma also agreed the disease can result in blindness with only 26.3% affirming that blindness from glaucoma is irreversible. Nearly half (49.7%) of the respondents perceived themselves to be at risk of developing glaucoma. The results showed that age (p <0.0001) was statistically significant with glaucoma awareness and education was also statistically significant with perception of risk. Approximately, 20.7% of the respondents have had their eye screened with just a few (4.3%) screening for glaucoma. Given that the findings display inadequate knowledge about glaucoma and poor eye screening behaviour among the study population, there is need to effectively inform and educate people about the disease.
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    Factors influencing patients on antiretroviral therapy loss to follow up: A qualitative analysis of healthcare workers perspective
    (PLoS ONE, 2024) Kogi, R.; Krah, T.; Asampong, E.
    Despite expanded and successful antiretroviral therapy program coverage, a large proportion of people drop out at different stages along their treatment course. As a result, treatment gains do not reach a large proportion of these groups. It has been demonstrated that around half of the patients who test Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive in Sub-Saharan Africa are lost between testing and being considered for eligibility for therapy. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that influence patients on antiretroviral therapy who lost to follow-up in HIV treatment clinics in Asunafo South District, Ahafo Region. We used phenomenological qualitative research approach in conducting this study. Purposive sampling was used to select respondents, while key informant interview was used to collect the data. The major identified challenges in carrying out follow-up visits of patients on antiretroviral therapy were wrong addresses and phone numbers of clients, coupled with poor telecommunication networks, geographical relocation of clients, poor documentation of patients’ information, and non-availability of means of transport. The preferred reengage ment strategies identified in this study were: supply of drugs through home visits, intensive education, engaging the services of community-based surveillance officers, enhanced regular phone call visits, adoption and use of an integrated antiretroviral therapy clinic, intensified education on HIV, and involvement of religious leaders. In conclusion, all clinicians and stakeholders should consider the identified challenges and re-engagement strategies when providing antiretroviral services