School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences

Permanent URI for this community

http://197.255.125.131:4000/handle/123456789/23037

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 880

20 year trends in renal disease mortality in Ghana: A review of autopsies
(Nephrology, 2019-04) Adjei, D.N.; Adu, D.; Quayson, S.E.; Kardaun, J.W.P.F.; Erskine, I.J.; Lartey, I.S.; Agyemang, C.
AIM: Data on the changing levels in renal morbidity and mortality are scant globally. We sought to assess trends in renal disease mortality and attributable causes over a 20 year period in Ghana. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 20 year autopsy records of the Pathology Departments of leading teaching hospitals in Ghana, (Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) in Accra and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi) from January 1994 to December 2013. Data comprising autopsies from in-patients, community cases and coroners' cases were used. We defined primary cause of death as death directly due to renal disease and secondary cause of death as death in which renal disease was a comorbid or contributing factor. RESULTS: Over the period, there were a total of 94 309 deaths, of which 5608 were attributed to renal disease (5.9/100). Mortality rate remained fairly the same from 1994 to 2009 (5.0%), but doubled from 2010 to 2013 (10.8%). Similar trends were observed among males and females during the same period. However, males had slightly higher mortality rates (6.6%; 95% CI: 46.1%-6.8%) compared to females (5.6%; 95% CI: 5.4%-5.8%; P = 0.271). The major leading attributable causes of renal disease death include end stage renal disease 45.0% and acute pyelonephritis accounting for 20.9% of the cases. Hypertensive heart disease accounted for 30.0% of all secondary cause of death while congestive heart disease and septicaemia accounted for 13.0% and 12.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: We observed marked increase in the renal disease mortality rate during the last few years predominantly driven by chronic and infectious related renal diseases as a main cause, and hypertensive heart disease and congestive heart failure as the main secondary causes. Measures geared towards prevention, treatment and managing such conditions may impact on the reduction of renal disease mortality rate among Ghanaian populations.
3.6 Million Neonatal Deaths-What Is Progressing and What Is Not?
(Seminars in Perinatology, 2010-12) Lawn, J.E.; Kerber, K.; Enweronu-Laryea, C.; Cousens, S.
Each year 3.6 million infants are estimated to die in the first 4 weeks of life (neonatal period)-but the majority continue to die at home, uncounted. This article reviews progress for newborn health globally, with a focus on the countries in which most deaths occur-what data do we have to guide accelerated efforts? All regions are advancing, but the level of decrease in neonatal mortality differs by region, country, and within countries. Progress also differs by the main causes of neonatal death. Three major causes of neonatal deaths (infections, complications of preterm birth, and intrapartum-related neonatal deaths or "birth asphyxia") account for more than 80% of all neonatal deaths globally. The most rapid reductions have been made in reducing neonatal tetanus, and there has been apparent progress towards reducing neonatal infections. Limited, if any, reduction has been made in reducing global deaths from preterm birth and for intrapartum-related neonatal deaths. High-impact, feasible interventions to address these 3 causes are summarized in this article, along with estimates of potential for lives saved. A major gap is reaching mothers and babies at birth and in the early postnatal period. There are promising community-based service delivery models that have been tested mainly in research studies in Asia that are now being adapted and evaluated at scale and also being tested through a network of African implementation research trials. To meet Millennium Development Goal 4, more can and must be done to address neonatal deaths. A critical step is improving the quantity, quality and use of data to select and implement the most effective interventions and strengthen existing programs, especially at district level. © 2010 Elsevier Inc.
A - 61C and C - 101G hp gene promoter polymorphisms are, respectively, associated with ahaptoglobinaemia and hypohaptoglobinaemia in Ghana
(Clinical Genetics, 2003) Teye, K.; Quaye, I.K.E.; Koda, Y.; Adjei, A.A.; Tsuneoka, M.; Pang, H.; Kimura, H.
We have investigated the genetic basis for the Hp0 phenotype amongst 123 randomly selected Ghanaians. A total of 17 individuals were determined to be Hp0 phenotype, based on the classical method for Hp phenotyping of Hb-supplemented plasma. Out of the 17 Hp0 individuals, nine subjects were further classified as ahaptoglobinaemic and eight as hypohaptoglobinaemic by Western blots and double immunodiffusion. We identified three previously known base substitutions (A-55G, A-61C and T-104A) and three new ones (C-101G, T-191G and C-242T) within the 5' flanking region of the Hp gene. The A-61C base substitution significantly decreased transcriptional activity and was associated strongly with Hp2 allele and ahaptoglobinaemia. The C-101G substitution was similar in transcriptional activity to the wild-type and was associated with Hp1S allele and hypohaptoglobinaemia. The Hpdel allele seen in Asian populations was absent. We conclude that the Hp0 phenotype in Ghana has a genetic basis that differs significantly from that seen in Asia.
A case–control study of prevalence of anemia among patients with type 2 diabetes
(2016-05-04) Antwi-Bafour, S.; Hammond, S.; Adjei, J.K.; Kyeremeh, R.; Martin-Odoom, A.; Ekem, I.
Abstract Background Anemia is defined as a reduction in the hemoglobin concentration of blood, which consequently reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells such that they are unable to meet the body’s physiological needs. Several reports have indicated that anemia mostly occurs in patients with diabetes with renal insufficiency while limited studies have reported the incidence of anemia in people with diabetes prior to evidence of renal impairment. Other studies have also identified anemia as a risk factor for the need for renal replacement therapy in diabetes. Understanding the pathogenesis of anemia associated with diabetes may lead to the development of interventions to optimize outcomes in these patients. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the prevalence of anemia among patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods A total of 100 (50 with type 2 diabetes and 50 controls) participants were recruited for our study. Participants’ blood samples were analyzed for fasting blood glucose, full blood count and renal function tests among others. The prevalence of anemia was then determined statistically. Results A high incidence of anemia was observed in the cases. Of the patients with diabetes, 84.8 % had a hemoglobin concentration that was significantly less (males 11.16±1.83 and females 10.41±1.49) than the controls (males 14.25±1.78 and females 12.53±1.14). Renal insufficiency determined by serum creatinine level of >1.5 mg/dL, estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/minute/1.73 m2, and erythropoietin levels was also observed to be high in the cases (54.0 %; with mean creatinine concentration of 3.43±1.73 and erythropoietin 6.35±1.28 mIU/mL). A significantly increased fasting blood glucose, urea, sodium, potassium, and calcium ions were observed in the cases (7.99±1.30, 5.19±1.99, 140.90±6.98, 4.86±0.53 and 1.47±0.31 respectively) as compared to the controls (4.66±0.54, 3.56±2.11, 135.51±6.84, 4.40±0.58 and 1.28±0.26 respectively). Finally, a significant association between hemoglobin concentration and fasting blood glucose was also observed in the cases. Conclusions The findings suggest that a high incidence of anemia is likely to occur in patients with poorly controlled diabetes and in patients with diabetes and renal insufficiency.
A comparative survey of the prevalence of human parasites found in fresh vegetables sold in supermarkets and open-aired markets in Accra, Ghana
(2014-11-25) Duedu, K.O.; Yarnie, E.A.; Tetteh-Quarcoo, P.B.; Attah, S.K.; Donkor, E.S.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.
Abstract Background Consuming raw vegetables offers essential nutrients that one may not get when such vegetables are usually cooked. However, eating them raw may pose a great risk for transmissions of pathogens. Such risks may be influenced by the sources of the vegetables and washing techniques used. The aim of the study was to compare the prevalence and diversity of parasitic pathogens associated with vegetables sold at the two types of markets in Ghana and compare effectiveness of various washing techniques. Methods We purchased two batches of samples of cabbage, sweet bell pepper, carrot, lettuce, tomato and onion within a two week interval. The vegetables were washed by three methods and the wash solution was concentrated and analyzed for parasites. Results The prevalent parasites detected were Strongyloides stercoralis larvae (43%) and Cryptosporidium parvum oocyst (16%). Others present were Hookworm ova, Entamoeba histolytica cysts, Giardia lamblia cysts, Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts, Entamoeba coli cysts, Trichuris trichiuria ova, Enterobius vermicularis ova, Isospora belli oocysts and Fasciolopsis buski ova. Contamination was highest in lettuce (61%) and cabbage and the least contaminated was tomato (18%). Contamination of vegetables sold at the open-aired markets was about ten-times that of the supermarkets. Conclusions In Ghana, the large open-aired markets are the most patronized and serve as a supply point for most corner shops and stalls. The results thus highlight the potential of fresh vegetables serving as a major source of food-borne disease outbreaks and the contribution of open-aired markets to their transmission. Urgent public education on handling of fresh vegetables is recommended.
A perpetual source of DNA or something really different: ethical issues in the creation of cell lines for African genomics research
(2014-08-07) de Vries, J.; Abayomi, A.; Brandful, J.; Littler, K.; Madden, E.; Marshall, P.; Oukem-Boyer, O.O.M.; Seeley, J.
Abstract Background The rise of genomic studies in Africa – not least due to projects funded under H3Africa – is associated with the development of a small number of biorepositories across Africa. For the ultimate success of these biorepositories, the creation of cell lines including those from selected H3Africa samples would be beneficial. In this paper, we map ethical challenges in the creation of cell lines. Discussion The first challenge we identified relates to the moral status of cells living in culture. There is no doubt that cells in culture are alive, and the question is how this characteristic is relevant to ethical decision-making. The second challenge relates to the fact that cells in culture are a source of cell products and mitochondrial DNA. In combination with other technologies, cells in culture could also be used to grow human tissue. Whilst on the one hand, this feature increases the potential utility of the sample and promotes science, on the other it also enables further scientific work that may not have been specifically consented to or approved. The third challenge relates to ownership over samples, particularly in cases where cell lines are created by a biobank, and in a different country than where samples were collected. Relevant questions here concern the export of samples, approval of secondary use and the acceptability of commercialisation. A fourth challenge relates to perceptions of blood and bodily integrity, which may be particularly relevant for African research participants from certain cultures or backgrounds. Finally, we discuss challenges around informed consent and ethical review. Summary In this paper, we sought to map the myriad of ethical challenges that need to be considered prior to making cell line creation a reality in the H3Africa project. Considering the relative novelty of this practice in Africa, such challenges will need to be considered, discussed and potentially be resolved before cell line creation in Africa becomes financially feasible and sustainable. We suggest that discussions need to be undertaken between stakeholders internationally, considering the international character of the H3Africa project. We also map out avenues for empirical research.
Abdominal tuberculosis: A frequent diagnostic challenge
(Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, 1985-04) Ibrahim, E.M.; Anim, J.T.; Al-Idrissi, H.; Al Mohaya, S.; Al Dossary, J.; Grant, C.S.
In recent years, abdominal tuberculosis has become rare in many countries even where pulmonary tuberculosis still exists. A case of abdominal tuberculosis is described in a young male who presented with non-specific symptoms together with CT scan findings that simulated abdominal lymphoma. Diagnosis was established during abdominal exploration. The frequency of various presenting manifestations of abdominal tuberculosis are discussed. The report emphasizes the need for a high index of suspicion to save patients unnecessary exploratory laparatomy.
Acceptance and perceived value of non‑invasive malaria diagnostic tests in malaria‑endemic countries
(Springer Nature, 2021) Owusu, E.D.A.; Campillo, A.; Daily, J.; Ding, X.C.
Background: The diagnosis of malaria, using microscopy or rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), requires the collection of capillary blood. This procedure is relatively simple to perform but invasive and poses potential risks to patients and health workers, arising from the manipulation of potentially infectious bodily fluids. Less or non-invasive diagnostic tests, based on urine, saliva or requiring no sampling, have the potential to generate less discomfort for the patient and to offer simpler and less risky testing procedures that could be safely performed by untrained staff or even selfperformed. To explore the potential acceptance and perceived value of such non-invasive tests, an online, international survey was conducted to gather feedback from National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP) representatives. Methods: An online survey comprising nineteen questions, available in English, French or Spanish, was emailed to 300 individuals who work with NMCPs in malaria-endemic countries. Answers were collected between November and December 2017; responses were qualitatively analysed to identify key themes and trends and quantitatively analysed to determine average values stratified by region. Results: Responses were received from 70 individuals, from 33 countries. Approximately half of the respondents (52 %) considered current blood-based tests for malaria to be minimally invasive and non-problematic in their setting. For these participants, non-invasive tests would only be of interest if they brought additional performance improvements, as compared with the performance of microscopy and RDTs. Most respondents were of the view that salivabased (80 %) and urine-based (66 %) tests would be more readily acceptable among children than blood-based tests. Potential use-case scenarios of interest for both saliva- and urine-based tests were ease-of-testing by community health workers, additional surveillance, self-testing, and outbreak investigation. Many respondents (41 %) thought that if saliva-based tests retailed at <$0.50 per unit they could largely replace conventional RDTs, whereas only 25 % of respondents thought a similarly priced urine-based test would do so. Conclusions: Although limited to NMCP stakeholders, this survey indicated that current tests for malaria, based on capillary blood, are generally perceived to be minimally invasive and non-problematic. Non-invasive tests, especially if saliva-based, would be welcome if they could match or out-perform the price and performance of current bloodbased tests.
Accreditation Improves Quality of Oncology Education in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Perspectives of African Oncologists
(Journal of Cancer Education, 2019-02) Hammad, N.; Stockley, D.; Hastings-Truelove, A.; Vanderpuye, V.; Rubagumya, F.; Caruso, T.
The purpose of this study is to understand the perspectives of African Oncologists on the role of accreditation and on global standards. We developed a survey that addressed African oncologists’ opinions on the role of accreditation. The survey also included 187 standards from World Federation of Medical Education Postgraduate medical education (PGME) standards, American Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-I standards for hematology/oncology, and the Royal College of Physician and Surgeons of Canada Medical Oncology standards. A 3-point scale was employed for each standard: 1 = not important, 2 = important but not essential, 3 = essential. The survey was sent to 79 physicians, 38 responded. Eighty-seven percent agreed that accreditation ensures quality. Forty-five percent agreed it will not increase migration of qualified doctors. Twenty-two individuals who completed the entire survey were analyzed for the standards. Five standards received the highest ratings of 3 (essential) from all respondents. One standard received a rating of < 2.0. The majority of standards had ratings between 2.6 and 2.94 indicating African oncologists found most standards to be useful. Ratings < 2.6 were mostly related to resource constraints. Most African Oncologists believed that accreditation ensures quality of education, and most standards were considered important. This data is useful for developing and adapting accreditation standards in resource-constrained settings. © 2019, American Association for Cancer Education.
Adipocytokines in obese Ghanaian subjects with or without type 2 diabetes
(BMC Research Notes, 2018-02) Adams, Y.; Ofori, E.K.; Asare-Anane, H.; Amanquah, S.D.; Ababio, G.K.; Abendau, E.; Nabia, R.
Objective This study aimed to evaluate serum leptin and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) concentrations in obese Ghanaians with or without type 2 diabetes and to find out the extent to which their levels are influenced by underlying disorders. Results Obese subjects with type 2 diabetes had lower leptin but higher hsCRP levels compared with obese non-diabetic controls. There were negative correlations within the control group for glucose vs % muscle mass (r = − 0.378, p = 0.016), leptin vs % muscle mass (r = − 0.555, p = 0.001) and within the obese diabetic group for leptin vs % muscle mass (r = − 0.602, p = 0.001). Obese persons without diabetes were about three times more likely to have higher leptin levels compared with their obese diabetic counterparts (Odds ratio = 3.315, p < 0.001). Obese females independently had a tenfold increase in leptin levels compared with obese males.
Adiposity and hyperleptinemia during the first trimester among pregnant women with preeclampsia
(International Journal of Women's Health, 2017-06) Yeboah, F.A.; Ngala, R.A.; Bawah, A.T.; Asare-Anane, H.; Alidu, H.; Hamid, A.-W.M.; Wumbee, J.D.K.
Background: Leptin levels start increasing from the early stages of pregnancy, irrespective of the maternal body mass index. Leptin levels are increased in pregnant women with preeclampsia (PE) and may precede the clinical onset of the disease, with peaks occurring around 28 weeks of gestation. This study was aimed at determining whether serum leptin concentration and body fat percentage are significantly altered during the first trimester in pregnancies that subsequently develop PE and whether such changes are useful in predicting the disease. Materials and methods: This was a prospective longitudinal study conducted among pregnant women in Ho municipality. A cohort of 314 pregnant women was monitored from the first antenatal visit to delivery period at the Volta Regional Hospital, Ho, Ghana. Maternal serum leptin and lipid profile were analyzed and body fat percentage determined during first trimester. Body mass index was also calculated. Results: First trimester serum leptin level (P<0.0001) and body fat percentage (P<0.0001) were significantly higher in those who developed PE than those who did not; while triglycerides (P=0.8600), total cholesterol (P=0.5620), high-density lipoprotein (P=0.5880), low-density lipoprotein (P=0.4870) and very low-density lipoprotein (P=0.6540) did not show any significant difference between those with PE and those without PE. Conclusion: Leptin levels are increased significantly during the first trimester of pregnancy in obese women with PE, and these increases precede the onset of PE. © 2017 Yeboah et al.
Aetiology of acute lower respiratory infections among children under five years in Accra, Ghana
(Pathogens, 2015-01) Adiku, T.K.; Asmah, R.H.; Rodrigues, O.; Goka, B.; Obodai, E.; Adjei, A.A.; Donkor, E.S.; Armah, G.
The study aimed to investigate the aetiological agents and clinical presentations associated with acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI) among children under five years old at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Ghana. This was a cross-sectional study carried from February to December 2001. Nasopharyngeal aspirates and venous blood specimens obtained from 108 children with features suggestive of ALRI, were cultured and the isolated bacterial organisms were identified biochemically. Nasopharyngeal aspirates were also tested for Respiratory Syncitial Virus (RSV) antigen using a commercial kit (Becton Dickinson Directigen RSV test kit). A multiplex reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) was also used to detect and characterize RSV using extracted RNA. Socio-demographic and clinical data were also obtained from the study subjects. Bronchopneumonia (55.5%), bronchiolitis (25%), lobar pneumonia (10.2), non-specific ALRI (4.6%), TB, bronchitis and respiratory distress (0.67%) were diagnosed. The prevalence of septicaemia was 10% and bacteria isolated were Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae and enteric bacteria, including Salmonella spp., Enterobacter spp and Klebsiella spp, were isolated. Out of the 108 cases, 18% tested positive for RSV, with two cases having RSV as the only aetiological pathogen detected. The subtyping analysis of RSV strains by a multiplex RT-PCR showed that subgroups A and B circulated in the season of analysis. © 2015 by the authors
Aetiology of heart failure as seen from a National Cardiac Referral Centre in Africa
(Cardiology, 2000) Amoah, A.G.; Kallen, C.
572 consecutive patients with heart failure referred to the National Cardiothoracic Centre, Accra, Ghana, over a 4-year period were evaluated for the aetiology of heart failure using two-dimensional Doppler echocardiography with colour flow. The mean age of the subjects with heart failure was 42.3 ± 0.9 years. The male to female ratio was 1.2:1.0. Combined heart failure was seen in 50.5% of subjects. Peak incidence of heart failure occurred in the 5th decade. The main causes of heart failure were hypertension (21.3%; n = 122), rheumatic heart disease (20.1%; n = 115) and cardiomyopathy (16.8%; n = 96). Congenital heart disease and coronary artery disease accounted for 9.8 and 10% of cases, respectively. The commonest rheumatic valvular lesion was mitral regurgitation (78%). Dilated cardiomyopathy was the commonest form of idiopathic cardiomyopathy (67.7%; n = 65). Endomyocardial fibrosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy accounted for 22.9% (n = 22) and 9.4% (n = 9), respectively, of cardiomyopathies.
Africa
(Climate Change 2014: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability: Part B: Regional Aspects: Working Group II Contribution to the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2015-01) Niang, I.; Ruppel, O.C.; Abdrabo, M.A.; Essel, A.; Lennard, C.; Padgham, J.; Urquhart, P.
Africa as a whole is one of the most vulnerable continents due to its high exposure and low adaptive capacity. Given that climatic and ecological regions transcend national political boundaries, we have used the divisions of Africa's Regional Economic Communities (RECs) to structure the assessment within this chapter. 22.1.1. Structure of the Regions. The African continent (including Madagascar) is the world's second largest and most populous continent (1,031,084,000 in 2010) behind Asia (UN DESA Population Division, 2013). The continent is organized at the regional level under the African Union (AU). The AU's Assembly of Heads of State and Government has officially recognized eight RECs (Ruppel, 2009). Except for the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, all AU member states are affiliated with one or more of these RECs. These RECs include the Arab Maghreb Union (AMU), with 5 countries in Northern Africa; the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD), grouping 27 countries; the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), grouping 19 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa; the East African Community (EAC), with 5 countries; the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), with 10 countries; the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), with 15 countries; the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) with 8 countries; and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with 15 countries. The regional subdivision of African countries into RECs is a structure used by the AU and the New Partnership for Africa (NEPAD). 22.1.2. Major Conclusions from Previous Assessments 22.1.2.1. Regional Special Report and Assessment Reports Major concluions related to Africa from previous assessments are summarized in Table 22-1. 22.1.2.2. Special Report on Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation The IPCC Special Report on Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation (SREX; IPCC, 2012) is of particular relevance to the African continent. © Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 2014.
African ancestry and higher prevalence of triple-negative breast cancer: findings from an international study
(Cancer, 2010) Stark, A.; Kleer, C.G.; Martin, I.; Awuah, B.; Nsiah-Asare, A.; Takyi, V.; Braman, M.; Quayson, S.E.
BACKGROUND The study of breast cancer in women with African ancestry offers the promise of identifying markers for risk assessment and treatment of triple-negative disease. METHODS African American and white American women with invasive cancer diagnosed at the Henry Ford Health System comprised the primary study population, and Ghanaian patients diagnosed and/or treated at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, Ghana constituted the comparison group. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens were transported to the University of Michigan for histopathology confirmation, and assessment of estrogen and progesterone receptors and HER-2/neu expression. RESULTS The study population included 1008 white Americans, 581 African Americans, and 75 Ghanaians. Mean age at diagnosis was 48.0 years for Ghanaian, 60.8 years for African American, and 62.4 for white American cases (P =.002). Proportions of Ghanaian, African American, and white American cases with estrogen receptor-negative tumors were 76%, 36%, and 22%, respectively (P < .001), and proportions with triple-negative disease were 82%, 26%, and 16%, respectively (P < .001). All Ghanaian cases were palpable, locally advanced cancers; 57 (76%) were grade 3. A total of 147 American women were diagnosed as stage III or IV; of these, 67.5% (n =46) of African Americans and 44.6% (n = 29) of white Americans were grade 3. Among palpable, grade 3 cancers, Ghanaians had the highest prevalence of triple-negative tumors (82.2%), followed by African Americans (32.8%) and white Americans (10.2%). CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates progressively increasing frequency of estrogen receptor-negative and triple-negative tumors among breast cancer patients with white American, African American, and Ghanaian/African backgrounds. This pattern indicates a need for additional investigations correlating the extent of African ancestry and high-risk breast cancer subtypes
African diet: A toxic/protective dilemma
(Transworld Research Network, Kerala, India, 2009) Mossanda, K.S.; Asare, G. A.
Food shortages and high prevalence of poverty-related chronic diseases including HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis have culminated in health crisis in African continent. The diet of the majority of African populations consists largely of maize and cassava flour. Apart from being deficient in essential amino-acids, important vitamins and micronutrients, maize and cassava flour are prone to fungal infestation and thus to contamination by mycotoxins which increases the risk of cancer development mostly in HIV/AIDS individuals. In addition, digestive cancers and especially squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus (SCCE) are become the most common cancers in Southern African black men (incidence: 14.5%). Among other factors including hepatitis B and C, excessive intake of dietary iron as a result of drinking homebrewed in iron pots constitutes one of the most important factors leading into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Alcohol consumption has been also implicated in the aetiology of both SCCE associated with cigarette smoking, low intake of dietary antioxidants, consumption of compounds such as polycyclic hydrocarbons, nitrosamines, heterocyclic amines found in African diet and HCC associated with increased hepatic iron stores inducing successively fibrosis and cirrhosis which finally progress into liver cancer. Despite our progress in antioxidant, environmental, genetic and carcinogenic studies, the mechanism of induction of those two types of cancer is still not fully understood. Our histological findings and the immuno-histochemistry evidence of DNA damage by the presence in situ (biopsies) of 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and that of lipid peroxidation by the presence in situ of 4-hydroxy-nonenal (4-HNE) increasing with the disease progression, have provided a consistent correlation between low intake of dietary antioxidant and the occurrence of carcinoma. In contrast to those toxicological aspects of African diet leading to the occurrence of digestive and liver cancers in African populations, an expanding body of evidence from epidemiological and laboratory studies demonstrated that edible plant as whole, or their ingredients have substantial protective effects on human carcinogenesis. We have recently demonstrated the anti-oxidative and anti-mutagenic properties of some African indigenous edible plants: Bambara groundnut (Vignea subterranean) and beverage: Rooi bos tea (Aspalathus linearis). Their chemo-preventive and antiinflammatory activities have been tested in cell culture using human breast epithelial (MCF-10A) cells and in animal model using mouse skin. Methanolic extracts of some other African plants (Sutherlandia fructescens and Harpagophytum procumbens) used as beverages showed inhibition of 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13 acetate (TPA)- induced cyclo-oxygenase (COX-2) expression in mouse skin, which appears to be mediated through blocking of catalytic activity of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) and through inhibition of activator protein-1 (AP-1) and cylic AMP response element binding (CREB) protein activation, suggesting their chemopreventive and chemo-protective activities. Due to the fact that inhibition of COX-2 is now regarded as an effective and promising strategy for prevention of anti-inflammatory process precluding the initiation and tumor stage, more research on African food plants and beverages should be conducted using this strategy in order to understand the molecular mechanism underlying those specific activities. In the light of these data, the extensive use of African foodstuffs and beverage bearing preventive and protective factors should be recommend in the diet of African populations for reducing the incidence of digestive and liver cancers in those areas.
Age-specific reference levels of serum prostate-specific antigen and prostate volume in healthy Arab men
(BJU International, 2005-08) Kehinde, E.O.; Mojiminiyi, O.A.; Sheikh, M.; Al-Awadi, K.A.; Daar, A.S.; Al-Hunayan, A.; Anim, J.T.; Al-Sumait, A.A.
OBJECTIVE: To determine age-specific reference ranges for serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentration and prostate volumes in a population of healthy Arab men. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Blood samples were taken from 396 healthy Arab men (from Kuwait and Oman) aged 15-79 years and from across the social spectrum. Men aged >40 years had a digital rectal examination and transrectal ultrasonography of the prostate to determine prostate volume. The serum PSA level was measured using commercial kits, and age-specific ranges for PSA levels and prostate volume determined. RESULTS: The serum PSA ranges (ng/mL) for each age range in Arab men were: 40-49 years, 0-0.9; 60-69, 0-2.7; 70-79, 0-5.5 ng/mL; the respective prostate volumes were 8-22, 9-30 and 10-33 mL. The serum PSA level and prostate volume correlated with age (P < 0.001). Arab men had lower serum PSA levels and prostate volumes than those reported for Caucasians, but similar to those reported for Asians (Japanese and Chinese). CONCLUSION: These results indicate that Arab men have lower PSA levels and prostate volumes than Caucasians. The levels are slightly lower than those reported in the Japanese and, as in the Japanese, low PSA levels and small prostate volumes might be related to the low incidence of clinical prostate cancer in Arab men.
Agouti-related protein promoter variant associated with leanness and decreased risk for diabetes in West Africans
(International Journal of Obesity, 2006-04) Bonilla, C.; Panguluri, R.K.; Taliaferro-Smith, L.; Argyropoulos, G.; Chen, G.; Adeyemo, A.A.; Amoah, A.; Owusu, S.; Acheampong, J.; Agyenim-Boateng, K.; Eghan Jr., B.A.; Oli, J.; Okafor, G.; Abbiyesuku, F.; Johnson, T.; Rufus, T.; Fasanmade, O.; Chen, Y.; Collins, F.S.; Dunston, G.M.; Rotimi, C.; Kittles, R.A.
Objective: The role of the central melanocortin system in the development of obesity has been extensively studied. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within several candidate genes have been associated with food intake and obesity-related phenotypes; however, few of these associations have been replicated. SNPs in the agouti-related protein (AGRP) gene coding (Ala67Thr, 199G/A) and promoter (-38C/T) have been reported to be associated with body mass index (BMI), fat mass (FM) and percent body fat, in populations of European and African descent. In this study, we evaluated the association between the functional AGRP -38C/T promoter SNP and weight-related traits, namely BMI, FM and fat-free mass (FFM), as well as diabetes status. Design: An association study of the AGRP -38C/T SNP and indices of obesity and diabetes status. Subjects: A well-characterized population of 538 West Africans from Ghana and Nigeria recruited in the AADM (Africa America Diabetes Mellitus) study (mean age 52 years, 41.3% males, 71% diabetic). Measurements: Genotyping of the AGRP -38C/T SNP, BMI, FM, FFM and fasting plasma glucose. Results: Women carrying two copies of the variant T allele had significantly lower BMI (OR = 0.47; 95% CI, 0.25-0.87). Also, men with at least one copy of the variant T allele were over two times less likely to be diabetic than other men (OR = 0.44; 95% CI, 0.22-0.89). Conclusion: Our results replicate previous findings and implicate the AGRP -38C/T SNP in the regulation of body weight in West Africans.
Alcohol intake, smoking, self-medication practices and burden of anaemia among traders in Tamale metropolis of Ghana
(BMC Research Notes, 2023) Anabire, N.G.; Billak, G.D.; Helegbe, G.K.
Objective Lifestyle choices including physical inactivity, smoking, abuse of alcohol and drugs, unhealthy diet are common among traders and market women and these behavioural activities predispose individuals to ill-health conditions including cardiovascular diseases and chronic anaemia. We evaluated lifestyle choices such as alcohol intake, smoking and resorting to self-medication among traders in the Tamale Central market in Ghana. We then associated these lifestyle choices with anaemia. Results A total of 400 participants were recruited for this study. Haemoglobin (Hb) levels of participants were measured using Mission® Plus Hb meter and anaemia was diagnosed by Hb<12 g/dl for non-pregnant females and Hb<13 g/dl for males. Of the participants, a majority (69.3%) were males, and most of them (56.0%) were within 18–35 years age bracket. While alcohol intake and smoking were uncommon, self-medication was a common practice among the participants. Anaemia was a common condition; diagnosed in 44.5% of participants, but was independent of age, alcohol intake and smoking. However, anaemia was more common in females (χ2=15.9, p<0.001) and was associated with self-medication (χ2=5.7, p=0.017). We recommend that traders in the Tamale metropolis should seek routine health check-ups to help avert adverse health consequences associated with anaemia.
Allopurinol provides long-term protection for experimentally induced testicular torsion in a rabbit model
(BJU International, 2005-07) Kehinde, E.O.; Anim, J.T.; Mojiminiyi, O.A.; Al-Awadi, F.; Shihab-Eldeen, A.; Omu, A.E.; Fatinikun, T.; Prasad, A.; Abraham, M.
OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of five antioxidants on exocrine function of rabbit testes retained in situ for 24 h and 3 months after experimental torsion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The left testes of peripubertal rabbits were clamped for 60 min, after which the clamps were removed and the testes allowed to reperfuse. The right testes served as interna controls. There were eight rabbits in each of the following experimental groups: (a) sham; (b) 60-min ischaemia followed by reperfusion; (c) 60-min ischaemia followed by left orchidectomy. In five further groups, rabbits were exposed to 60-min ischaemia followed by reperfusion, but received one of the following antioxidants before reperfusion: acetyl salicylic acid, ascorbic acid, allopurinol, quercetin or superoxide dismutase. Both testes were excised at 24 h or 3 months. The degree of lipid peroxidation.a measure of free radical damage, was assessed in testicular tissue homogenates by measuring the tissue evels of malondialdehyde (MDA). The Johnsen score was used to assess the morphologica damage at 24 h and 3 months for each group. RESULTS: At 3 months twisted viable testes allowed to reperfuse had higher MDA levels than controls; the left testes of rabbits treated with allopurinol had significantly lower MDA levels than untreated rabbitsand rabbitsgiven other antioxidants. Rabbits given quercetin, ascorbic acid or superoxide dismutase had lower (but not significantly) left testicular MDA levels than untreated rabbits, while rabbits given acetyl salicylic acid had even higher levels. Allopurinol-treated rabbits had a Johnsen score of > 7.6 and those given other antioxidants had scores of <7.6 at 3 months. CONCLUSION: The twisted viable testis treated by orchidopexy contains high free radical levels at 3 months. Of the antioxidants studied, only allopurinol had a beneficial long-term effect, by significantly reducing testicular MDA levels at 3 months.

Browse

Browsing School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences by Title

Results Per Page

Sort Options